Dear Mentor

Lagos Pastor
Aug 31, 2018 · 3 min read

ENTRY 030

I often get asked by people to be their mentor. While I count this a great honour, I don’t always jump at the opportunity. However, I have come to better appreciate God-ordained and arranged mentorship. It is mentorship that is organic and not just mechanical with an effect evidenced by growth. One book that I read years ago which had an amazing impact on my heart concerning mentorship is Mike Murdock’s The Law of recognition.

“For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.”- I Thessalonians‬ ‭2:13‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Last weekend I collated what I have observed about my most successful mentorship relationships.

Firstly they received me as a person. I have observed that people must receive the minister or messenger first before they receive the message. Even Jesus in his day could not pass across his message to people who refused to accept or receive him because they considered him based on his human pedigree. They accept you before the accept what you say. They then test what you say so they can continue accepting you. No faith no great works.

“Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.”-Mark‬ ‭6:5–6‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Secondly, I realized that God sometimes called me to mentor people who were walking paths that I had walked before. For example more than 80% of those I have pastored or mentored have dealt with or are dealing with sadness or depression. Paul reminds us that we have previously received comfort so we can comfort others who need it. God typically raises high priests who can be touched by the feelings of our infirmities.

“who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”- II Corinthians‬ ‭1:4‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Lastly, there must be mutual respect and interest. As in marriage as in mentorship. Both parties must be persuaded within their heart about the necessity and benefit of the relationship. I have learnt to focus on those who respect the little that I know and try to teach. In my campus days I was amazed how the gifts of the spirit were stirred and readily manifested in relationships where I felt valued, needed and respected. God opens the doors where He sends me to. Mutual Respect is key.

“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.”-Matthew‬ ‭7:6‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

And whoever will not receive you nor hear your words, when you depart from that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet.”-Matthew‬ ‭10:14‬ ‭NKJV‬‬

Dear minister, I pray that God will open your eyes to those He has sent you to and sent to you. I pray that you will not labor in vain. I pray for open doors and heavens over your heart and ministry. I pray that you will be effective and sharp as a two edged sword. May you be fruitful in due season and may your leaves be green and flourishing.

I pray that God will fill your heart with brand new hope. May vision be sharpened and courage be renewed. You are doing well sir. You are doing great ma. Hold on. Joy comes!

Have an awesome weekend.

Yours in His Vineyard,

A Lagos Pastor

Lagos Pastor

Written by

I am a pastor. I live in Lagos. Love Jesus a lot. Married with kids. I have stories, some questions, bright thoughts and some dark moments. I will share…

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