I’ve been going through a tough season. My elderly mother is very weak, and I know her death is imminent. Then last week my mother-in-law died unexpectedly. On top of that, the financial pressures of my upcoming Bold Venture events cause a lot of stress. I’m trusting the Lord to help me! But I don’t hide my struggles from those I’m discipling. They know about my pain, and their words cheer me up and boost my faith.
Paul had a close relationship with his disciples. He mentored them, but they also refreshed him and ministered to him. A mentoring relationship is not a one-way street. As a mentor, never pretend that you are Superman. Be real. Paul was a model Christian, but he admitted that he had a “thorn in the flesh” (2 Cor. 12:7). He boasted about his weaknesses because this helped him lean on the power of Christ. Don’t be a fake. Be an authentic, approachable mentor who bleeds, cries, limps and fights with temptation. Your authenticity will give others hope.