Philippians 4:1
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stay true to the Lord. I love you and long to see you, dear friends, for you are my joy and the crown I receive for my work. (New Living Translation)
Do you take the time to celebrate those you are mentoring?
Sometimes, though you may not want to admit it, you want to get a pat on your back from your boss, teacher, mentor, etc. As an adult, the certificate you get for completing your orientation becomes something you put in a frame on your wall. It has absolutely no monetary value, but you are still proud of it. As you train, mentor and encourage others, don’t forget to tell them how grateful to God you are because of them. Just in case they are not aware, tell them they help you complete your assignment. When they progress and mature in the things of God, take the same posture Paul took.
Philippians 1:3-5 Whenever you cross my mind, I thank my God for you and for the gift of knowing you. 4 My spirit is lightened with joy whenever I pray for you (and I do constantly) 5 because you have partnered with me to spread the gospel since the first day I preached to you. (The Voice)
Those you mentor should be a source of joy to you because of their faith and affection towards the Lord. They add to the stars on your crown of honor in the day you give an account of the work you have done. How do you know when you have progressed in your training? When the thoughts about the people whose lives you have touched, bring you joy and when you see those you have touched are touching the lives of others.
2 Timothy 2:2 You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others. (New Living Translation)
Because you love them, take the time to tell them; it will help in their growth as well as yours.
Please agree with me as I pray:
Father, thank You for those You have placed in my life. I also thank You for reminding me I must speak with love, speak life, and give truth with grace. But mostly, I am thankful for Your reminder that mentoring is not my only job. It is my responsibility to tell them how much I love them; how much I appreciate them; how much I am encouraged by them; how grateful I am that they listen to what You give me to say; and how grateful I am that they are staying in the faith. They received the words You placed in me for them. They believe You sent me. They are the stars in my crown, and I thank You, Father…
Thank you Father for reminding us to love, appreciate, and honor those whom You have given us to mentor…for they are the jewels on our crown for Your glory…In Jesus Name