Two Are Better than One

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Colossians 4:6

I sat with a heavy heart, listening to the young woman. Her husband is without a job, her marriage is in shambles, her son is in trouble at school, and her mother has Alzheimer’s. I knew about her difficulties, and yet these issues weren’t part of her conversation. Instead, for a long time she asked me question after question about general issues in life. “What do you think about...?” “What would you do if...?”

As we talked, it became clear. This young woman needed someone who would listen, encourage, and offer sound advice. I was thankful she trusted me; I also felt a great responsibility to answer wisely.

After spending time with this woman, I’ve wondered, “How many young women are going through very difficult times with no one to give them scripturally sound advice? “

God’s Word encourages “older” women to mentor younger women. (Titus 2:3-4) We are to teach and train them, sharing the wisdom God has given us. We don’t have to be Bible scholars. We’ve experienced much of what the younger ones are experiencing now. God has taught us through His Word; He has taught us through His work. He has even taught us through our failures. We have lessons and knowledge that the younger women need to hear.

Is God calling you to this? If so, He will equip you! I have mentored someone for years now, and I cherish my relationship with her. We have lunch or coffee occasionally and have become very close. Reach out to someone, and you will be blessed!

Young women, don’t walk through dark valleys alone. First and foremost, walk with the Lord. As you walk with Him, ask Him to lead you to a godly woman who will encourage and strengthen you in His Word. Be brave! Don’t wait for that woman to come to you. Ask her to mentor you!

Lord, bring us together so we can encourage one another.

Jan Burkhart