Sources of light
FLASHLIGHTS…are so useful. They come in every imaginable size and shape. We have six or seven all over our house. When the power goes out in the night, you reach for them first. Now our iPhones have a really bright one that is so useful. Like today! I was working out at the club and all the power went off. Taking a shower back in a dark section of the dressing room was made possible by using the iPhone flashlight. For us old guys, we need all the light we can get.
Joanne and I use ours quite often when we are out at night so we can see where we are going. It is amazing how unsteady one becomes when trying to walk in darkness, especially in areas with which you are not familiar. Once the light is on, confidence takes over.
In the dark
This morning’s experience reminded me of the role of mentoring in our children’s lives. Dads, you should be their ‘go to’ mentors. Your wisdom is priceless, especially godly wisdom. See, they have not traveled the paths you have. They are ‘in the dark’ in so many areas of their lives. You are their ‘flashlight’, bringing light to their path.
The word of God is their best mentor, for it provides heavenly wisdom, not wisdom of this world. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psa. 119.105). The psalmist knew where to turn for godly direction. Dad, so should you! Not only for guidance traversing this world, but it also offers eternal wisdom. You cannot know everything your child needs, but you can be the best resource for them to secure it. Sometimes, all they need is for you to turn on the switch. While other times, you will need to walk with them.
Light of the world
John Crosby was quoted as saying: ‘Mentoring is a brain to pick, an ear to listen and a push in the right direction.’ Well said, John. Dad, you can use all these elements, but knowing which to use at the right time is a recipe for success in your mentoring. Jesus said He was the Light of the world. And then He turns around and calls his followers the ‘light of the world’. That’s you, dad. And you are to point your children and grandchildren to the True Light.
‘Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life”’ (Jn. 8.12). Dads, true mentorship will lead them to have that ‘light of life.’ Mentor on!
