This life was never meant to be walked alone. The same is true in our pursuit of education. Without teachers and mentors to guide and instruct us along the way, we miss out on so many new ideas and revelations God would want to teach us through our learning. Not only that, but there are times when the pursuit of our educational goals gets tough. You may be tempted to quit or may question the direction God has given you for your life. Mentors are crucial in staying focused and pressing on through trying times. The Bible tells us in Proverbs,

“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22, English Standard Version).

We can often become too narrow-minded when we try to succeed in something on our own. It is to our benefit, and the glory of God, that we have counsellors offering us new insight and perspective as we reach our goal of becoming a teacher, doctor, web designer, or whatever else God has called us to. Mentors keep us from becoming overwhelmed with just our one perspective. They are there to remind us of who God is, who we are, and what God has for us.

This principle of counselling and mentorship is seen all throughout the Bible. One example of this is found in the book of Exodus. The author writes,

“Moses’ father-in-law replied, “What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone. Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you…” (Exodus 18:17-19, New International Version).

Getting so caught up in the work God has given Him, Moses was becoming overwhelmed with all of his responsibilities. So much so, that he was becoming unreliable and not as beneficial to the people of God. His father-in-law, Jethro, stepped in as a wise voice in Moses’ life and suggested that He divide His responsibilities among some trusted men to increase efficiency. Moses listened to his counsellor, and as a result, was able to further advance the kingdom of God.

This is what can happen to us when we don’t have a voice of mentorship in our lives. All the long years of tests, studying, and grasping new concepts can become overwhelming. We might be tempted to put the pressure all on ourselves. However, with the help of someone who has maybe gone through it before or can offer you an outsider perspective, we can more fully fulfill the work God has set before us in a way that benefits the maximum amount of people.

While at school, your mentors will help you to remember that your education is not just about you. It is about those around you. It’s about God. Enjoy the process with good company. You’ll learn that mentors can become the dearest of friends and even seem like family. The Bible instructs us to keep counsellors close and be ready to listen to instruction. With a mentor alongside you as you pursue your educational goals, you will be ensuring wisdom and godly success for your future.

Encouragement in Mentorship