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7 Ways to Become a Better Mentor
The Greatest Commandment is to go make disciples. There is no better way of discipling than investing your time and experience into someone else with 1-1 mentoring. Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:18-20). Here are 7 ways to help you become a better mentor:
1. Ask God to Be Your Mentor (Hebrews 5:14)
You cannot give what you don’t have. The first step to becoming a great mentor is to be mentored by God. Be the best mentor you can be by living a vibrant Christian life with Jesus.
2. Spend Time in God’s Word & Prayer (Ephesians 6:18)
Ask God to use you in this mentoring relationship and give you the words He wants you to share. Mentoring will not be successful without a strong commitment to prayer.
3. Be a Good Listener (James 1:19)
Your focus should be on God’s point of view and not your own agenda. As a mentor you are not to try and fix anyone. The Holy Spirit must be in control. (Remember to maintain good eye contact. Do not take notes during your meeting. Keeping a prayer journal of your thoughts at home is acceptable.)
4. Ask Open Ended Questions. (Matthew 7:7-8)
Consider using the Socratic method. It helps people to think for themselves instead of just telling them what to do, even though you’re still guiding the general direction that the conversation takes. Here are a few examples to help you get the conversations started:
- What are your mentoring / discipleship expectations?
- What has been heavy on your heart or mind lately?
- What are the biggest challenges you are experiencing this week?
- How has your walk with God been since the last time we met?
5. Be Transparent (2 Tim 3:16-17)
Share with your mentee about what God is doing in your life. Be real and open to discussing what challenges you face and what areas of sin you are dealing with in your life. Seek and share wisdom based on God’s Word
6. Speak Words of Encouragement (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Celebrate the achievements of your mentee and encourage them in their walk with God. Tell them that Christ loves and cares for them. Use your words to inspire your mentee to follow God and guide them to start mentoring others.
7. Commit to a Plan & Set Expectations (Psalm 16:6)
Set up a plan about how often you are going to meet and how long you plan to meet each time. In addition, consider what areas you want to focus on. Arrive on time. End on time.Set expectations & boundaries at the first meeting for this mentoring relationship.
Will you answer the call to make discipleship who make disciples? Will you help mentor the next generation?