What If We Don’t Have A Mentor?

Friday, July 10

Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT)

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.”

Devotion

What if we don’t have a mentor of faith in our own lives who has born witness to us and can sustain us in our faith during our trials? What if we didn’t get to grow up that way? Or what if we don’t see someone like that with whom we can identify? Of course, we have family and friends around us, but what if they don’t see us?

Know this, God sees you. “O Lord, you alone are my hope. I’ve trusted you, O Lord, from childhood. Yes, you have been with me from birth; from my mother’s womb you have cared for me. No wonder I am always praising you!” (Psalm 71:5-6).

Thankfully and graciously, God has given us so many examples of His people, whose faith was sustained through some of the worst trials imaginable. Think about it – the bullying Abel may have endured from his brother, Cain; the taunting, stares and whispers that Noah endured from the town as he built the ark; or the doubts that Abraham may have wrestled with as he and his entourage crossed the wilderness to an unknown land.  But they still trusted God and gave their all to Him.

As Pastor Franklin said in his message this past Sunday, what God has for us may require an ‘all in’ mentality. He may be calling us to set our mind on what’s ahead.  Because nobody’s ‘no’ can beat God’s ‘yes’. Don’t give up! Lean in and Trust God!  Don’t look at the obstacle staring back at you. Fix your eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. And remember this – the trial you’re going through is less about our own ability, and more about God’s. 

God’s victory is a game changer!

We do not struggle alone. Others have run the race and won. Their witness stirs us to run and win also.

Today's Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Where would we be without You? Thank You so very much for our knowing Your Presence and Your nearness. Thank You for preserving Your Word throughout the ages, so that we in this age may have these tremendous examples of Your people, whose faith endured and sustained them throughout their trials. Thank You that with You, we are never alone! In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Apply It Today

Jesus sent the promise of the Comforter, so we are not alone. The Holy Spirit, the greatest Coach one can find, has been sent to teach us all things and bring all things to our remembrance of what the Lord Jesus has said to us. (John 14:26) He is the 24/7 live-in Mentor Who never leaves our side and is an expert in all things—sports, work, family relationships, even life itself. Get to know Him through prayer and the Word of God, and partner with Him.

Resources

• The Holy Spirit is not just a promise for yesterday—He is God’s presence with you today. Watch “What The Holy Spirit Wants To Do For You” and discover the help, comfort, and power available to every believer.

• Life is better when we do it together. Join an Online Connect Group and find a community where you can build relationships, grow in faith, and receive encouragement for every season.