I am one of the lucky ones…one of a select few…part of an elite group. I consider myself a part of the brotherhood of mentors. That's right. I actually have a mentor in my life—a good mentor. Not only do I have a mentor, but I am a mentor also. I know I seem to be bragging. In a way, I am. Mostly, I'm just really thankful. Having someone invest his or her life into your life is awesome. There is nothing like it. Sometimes, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Mentoring does not happen every day to everyone. In this article, I want to share my relationship with my mentor, and I hope this will help you get started in your own mentoring relationships.
About four years ago, Don invited me to join his men's small group. At some time during the group, Don noticed I had potential to lead a group of my own. He also noticed the passion I had for community and for transformation. Don then trained me to be a small group leader. He also gave me the opportunity to start leading my own group. Over time, he asked if my wife and I would consider coaching other small group leaders. After much prayer and consideration, we decided to give it a shot. Again, Don trained and coached us as we coached others. Then as time went on, he provided me with opportunities to lead and manage the small group ministry at our church. Today, I am a full-time small groups pastor. I believe I am where I am today because of Don's mentoring over the past four years. I've never attended Bible college and I Don't have a seminary degree, but I am now in full-time Christian ministry because one man invested in me and trained me for ministry.
As I've looked back on our relationship and thought about what Don has invested in my life, I've discovered ...