In "The Fine Art of Mentoring: Passing on to Others What God Has Given to You," author Theodore Wilhelm Engstrom says there is a way for humans to do things.
It is quicker than God's Way.
It's easier, too.
But it's absolutely dead wrong.
Engstrom's point is that we seek shortcuts. An individual willing to teach another person a craft, hobby, or how to do anything must take the time to do so properly.
Once upon a time, an artisan would choose an apprentice who shows promise. He would work long and hard with that individual to develop techniques and instill personal pride in a job well done.
This is a lost art.
We are told to make disciples of men and women; to become people who show promise.
Those who have a genuine heart for God have all the tools and skills they need to become a disciple of our Lord. However, we often have good intentions but do not follow through, or we want to rush the process in a quicker, easier and most definitely wrong way.
It takes time to learn God's Word and His ways. It is not impossible; it just takes the leadership of people like you and me, living an example for others.
New Christians need to see us doing our best. Sometimes, we need these same new ones to help keep us in line.
It is time for you to break out of your shell.
You know that child, the one who angers you so much? Perhaps he needs you. The single parent who lives down the road, and those in grief over the loss of a loved one — they need you to help them find Christ and then be made into a disciple.
It will take time, patience and a willing heart, but the rewards are amazing!
The final goal?
Matthew 10:25: "It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his household?"
Oh, to be Christ-like enough in our life that we are known by His same virtues.
The Rev. Richard Helms serves at Miracle Acres Ministries, 3187 E. James Lee Blvd., Crestview.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HELMS: Can Christians please revive this lost art?