I had the great opportunity to spend some time with a good friend over the weekend.  My friend Danny and his daughter, Candy, made the trek over from West Tennessee to visit my family for a couple of days.

Danny is one of those folks that immediately makes you feel comfortable.  I might not see him but once or twice a year, but the conversation picks right back up as if we just visited yesterday.

I met Danny at church several years ago.  He invited me to go with him on Thursday evenings to visit the sick, former church members who had quit coming, and other people in the community that had the need for Christ.  We traveled the back roads and byways of Weakley County for the better part of a year.  While Danny talked and ministered to those in need, I listened and soaked it all in.  I can honestly say that I learned and benefited more than any of those good folks we visited.  Danny changed my life.

Danny is a true spiritual mentor for me and countless others.  What makes a good spiritual mentor?

Spiritual mentors hold you accountable.

Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men.  Ephesians 6:7

Danny not only sets a great Christian example, but he gently challenges me to do more.  He encourages me to be a better husband, father, employee and servant.  He asks about my daily walk and provides encouragement when I need a spiritual boost (or a prod).  He reminds me that it’s important to continually grow my faith…and that I need to give back to others as I have benefited from them.

Spiritual mentors are transparent.

Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.  I Thessalonians 5:14

Danny is one of the most encouraging and authentic men I’ve ever met.  He is quick to point out his own struggles, which makes him that much more approachable.  When you talk with him about your obstacles, you know that Danny is actively listening and cares deeply about your situation.  He’s an incredible example of what it means to have a healthy, growing faith walk.  He lives his faith, and he works daily to have a better understanding of the Bible and its teachings.

Spiritual mentors pray for you.

The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up.  If he has sinned, he will be forgiven.  James 5:15

Danny is an incredible prayer warrior.  When you ask Danny to pray for you- you can rest assured that your request will be lifted up.  His prayers are thoughtful and concise…and always seem to lift your burden.  Danny and I prayed together three times over the weekend- and I wish that we had prayed even more.  Over the years Danny has built and maintained a healthy prayer life.  His confidence and sincerity during his daily prayers are a comfort to all who hear.

Accountability.  Transparency.  Willingness to pray.  Simple concepts that take great discipline, practice and time to master.

I’m grateful for good mentors and teachers that enter our lives.  I hope that you will take the time to reach out to your spiritual mentor and thank them for their investment in you.

And maybe someday, hopefully….we can be a mentor to someone too.

God bless.