My People Shall Never Be Ashamed

The promise of God in Joel 2:26 is one of the most profound assurances of His covenant faithfulness: “And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall never be ashamed” (Joel 2:26). This statement is more than a promise of material provision; it is a declaration of divine security, spiritual honor, and eternal assurance for those who belong to God. To be “ashamed” in Scripture means to be confounded, put to dishonor, or found without refuge when trial or judgment comes. God pledges that those who are His will never be abandoned, dishonored, or left without a defense. Let us carefully explore the spiritual principles that uphold this promise.

1. Looking Unto God in Prayer – No Shame (Psalm 34:5; 1 Kings 18:22–40)

“They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed” (Psalm 34:5). Shame flees when the believer’s eyes are lifted heavenward. Elijah, in the contest at Mount Carmel, looked to heaven and prayed, and fire fell (1 Kings 18:36–38). The prophets of Baal were left disgraced, but Elijah was honored before all. When we lift our faces to God in trust, He vindicates His people.
To pray is to transfer confidence from self to God. Those who trust in their own strength shall be brought low (Jeremiah 17:5), but those who look to God shall shine with heavenly light and never be ashamed.

2. Waiting Upon God in Faith – No Shame (Isaiah 49:23; Luke 2:25; Isaiah 40:31)

“…for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me” (Isaiah 49:23).
Simeon, in Luke 2:25–32, patiently waited for the Consolation of Israel. He did not die until he beheld Christ, the Savior. Waiting upon God is not wasted time—it is strengthening time. “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31).
Those who run ahead of God often stumble in confusion, but those who wait shall be vindicated. Waiting produces patience (James 1:3–4), and patience preserves the soul from shame.

3. Walking in God’s Commandments – No Shame (Psalm 119:6, 98–100)

“Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments” (Psalm 119:6). True honor is tied to obedience. To respect God’s commandments is to order one’s steps by His Word (Psalm 119:133). The obedient believer gains wisdom greater than enemies, teachers, and elders (Psalm 119:98–100).
Shame comes to those who despise God’s Word (Jeremiah 6:10–15), but those who tremble at His Word (Isaiah 66:2) find lasting honor.
4. A Heart Sound in God’s Statutes – No Shame (Psalm 119:80; Isaiah 38:1–5; Song of Solomon 4:7)

“Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; that I be not ashamed” (Psalm 119:80).
Soundness of heart: purity, sincerity, and wholeness before God, guards against shame. King Hezekiah, though stricken with disease, prayed with a perfect heart, and God extended his life (Isaiah 38:1–5).
The Bride of Christ is called “all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee” (Song of Solomon 4:7). When the church walks in holiness, she has nothing to fear at the appearing of Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

5. Believing in Christ – No Shame (Romans 9:33; Romans 10:11)

“…whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.” (Romans 9:33; cf. Isaiah 28:16). Faith in Christ is the foundation of boldness. Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:3). Believers who trust in Christ’s death and resurrection stand secure, for “the just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17). Unbelief leads to confusion, but faith in Christ ensures that the believer is never confounded in time or eternity.

6. Suffering for the Gospel – No Shame (2 Timothy 1:12; 2 Timothy 2:12; Romans 1:16)

Paul boldly declared: “For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed…” (2 Timothy 1:12). Shame often comes when affliction is interpreted as defeat. But in Christ, suffering becomes honor. Paul endured imprisonments and persecutions, yet declared: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ” (Romans 1:16). The believer’s confidence lies in knowing that God keeps what is committed to Him until the day of Christ.

7. Abiding in Christ – No Shame (1 John 2:28; John 15:1–5)

“…abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming” (1 John 2:28).
Abiding is the secret of fruitfulness. A branch separated from the vine withers, but the abiding believer bears much fruit (John 15:5). To remain in Christ is to remain safe, fruitful, and confident, awaiting His return without shame.
Those who live carelessly may be ashamed at His appearing (Matthew 25:1–12), but those who remain steadfast in Him will rejoice.

8. God’s Restoration – No Shame (Joel 2:25–26; Psalm 125:1–2)

Joel ties the promise of “no shame” with divine restoration: “And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten…” (Joel 2:25).
The shame of barrenness, loss, or judgment is replaced with the joy of abundance. Just as God reversed Israel’s devastation by the locusts (Exodus 10:5), He restores wasted years in the lives of His people.
Thus, His people “shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever” (Psalm 125:1).

Conclusion: The Eternal Security of God’s People

God’s declaration in Joel 2:26 is not empty poetry but eternal truth. His people, who:
• Look to Him in prayer,
• Wait upon Him in faith,
• Walk in His commandments,
• Keep a sound heart,
• Believe in Christ,
• Suffer for the Gospel without fear,
• Abide in Christ,
• And trust in His restoring power—
shall never be ashamed. Shame belongs to the ungodly who reject Him (Daniel 12:2), but the righteous shall shine with everlasting honor. Therefore let us hold fast to this promise with boldness: “They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even forever” (Psalm 125:1–2). Amen! Hallelujah!! !!!
His people shall never be ashamed. Hallelujah! Amen.

© 2025 Green Olives Christian Books. All rights reserved.

The Foundational Offense: Disregarding God's Sovereignty

At the root of all spiritual corruption lies a singular, devastating offense: the rejection of God's sovereignty, His right to rule, His supreme authority, and His identity as the source of all good. This offense is not merely a mistake of intellect but a rebellion of the will. It is the primal sin that undergirds every other, as it dethrones God in the heart and enthrones self, idols, or darkness in His place.
This affront is so serious because it strikes at the very essence of who God is:

. God’s Sovereignty Expressed in Holiness and Love
• Holiness (Isaiah 6:3; 1 Peter 1:15-16): God is absolutely pure, separate from sin, and perfect in righteousness. His holiness demands reverence, obedience, and moral purity.
• Love (1 John 4:8-10; Romans 5:8): His love is not passive affection but active, covenantal commitment. It is seen in His mercy, grace, and the offering of relationship to His creation.
To disregard God’s sovereignty is to reject His holiness (by tolerating or loving sin) and His love (by seeking life apart from Him).

Humanity’s Divine Design and Its Betrayal
God's original design for humanity reveals His sovereign intent:
• Relationship with Him (Genesis 3:8-9; John 17:3): We were made to walk with God intimately, daily.
• Reflection of His Image (Genesis 1:26-28): We are to represent His character—righteousness, justice, love.
• Responsible Stewardship (Genesis 2:15; Psalm 8): We are caretakers of creation, glorifying God through our dominion.
Disregarding God’s sovereignty is not just a violation of a command, it is a betrayal of our very identity and purpose.

The Fruits of Sovereignty Rejection: A Catalog of Abominations
A. The Practical Denial of God
“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’” – Psalm 14:1
This is not atheism of the mind but of the heart—a life lived as if God is irrelevant, absent, or unnecessary. Proverbs 9:10 tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. When this fear is cast aside, lawlessness thrives.

B. Idolatry and Occultism: Spiritual Treason
• Idolatry (Deut. 12:31; 29:17): Substituting the Creator with created things is spiritual adultery.
• Demonic traffic (Lev. 20:27; Gal. 5:19-21): Seeking power or knowledge apart from God is a fatal submission to the realm of darkness.
These practices usurp God's throne and invite judgment, for they mock His holiness and defy His authority.

C. Violations of Righteousness and Justice
These sins reflect a disordered society that has forgotten God:
• Pride and deceit (Prov. 6:16-17): Elevating self above God and others.
• Violence and bloodshed (Prov. 6:17): Destroying life made in God’s image.
• Scheming and false witness (Prov. 6:18-19): Weaponizing words to destroy.
• Unjust weights and dishonest trade (Prov. 11:1; Deut. 25:13-16): Turning commerce into a tool of oppression.
• Wicked sacrifices (Prov. 15:8): External religion without inward repentance is offensive to God.
• Justifying the wicked (Prov. 17:15): Perverting justice is to defy the God who is Judge of all.
Every act of injustice is ultimately a denial of God’s nature, for He is a God of justice (Isaiah 30:18).

D. A Reversal of Divine Values
Jesus said, “What is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God” – Luke 16:15.
The world glorifies what God despises: power without humility, wealth without righteousness, pleasure without purity. This value inversion is the fruit of rejecting God's voice and rule.
• Love of money (1 Tim. 6:10): Makes mammon a god.
• Turning from God's Word (Prov. 28:9): Silences divine truth.
• Religious acts from sinful hearts (Isaiah 1:13-15): Are an insult, not an offering.

The Weight of the Word: “Abomination”
The term “abomination” (Heb. toebah) signifies utter detestation. It is reserved for that which is most contrary to God’s nature, a stench in His holy presence. These are not merely bad behaviors—they are deep-rooted hostilities against God's being and order.br> “These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him...” (Proverbs 6:16-19)
God is not indifferent to sin. His hatred of abomination springs not from cruelty, but from the intensity of His love for holiness, justice, and His creation.

The Call to Response: From Abomination to Alignment
Understanding abomination is not meant to condemn but to awaken:
• To God's holiness: That we might tremble and revere.
• To God's love: That we might return and repent.
• To God's design: That we might live truly.
Through Christ, God provides restoration. The cross reveals both the severity of sin and the magnitude of mercy. What was abominable in us was judged in Christ (2 Cor. 5:21), so that we might be made righteous before God.

Conclusion: Reverence, Repentance, Renewal
Disregarding God’s sovereignty is not a small offense—it is the root of every evil, the poisoned spring of human rebellion. But recognizing this foundational sin brings us to the threshold of transformation. The fear of the Lord is still the beginning of wisdom, and submission to His rule is the gateway to life, peace, and godliness. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13). It serves as a call to self-examination, repentance, and a turning towards a life that reflects God's righteousness and love. By understanding what is deeply displeasing to Him, we can strive to live in a way that brings Him honor and aligns with His perfect will. This wisdom calls us to a life of integrity, justice, love, and unwavering devotion to the one true God.

© 2025 Green Olives Christian Books. All rights reserved.

The Father's Good Gifts: Trusting Beyond Stones and Serpents

The passage from Matthew 7:7-11 forms the bedrock of this teaching: "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?!" (KJV) So why the disillusionment?

It often stems from two extremes:
Vagueness in our petitions—offering general prayers with no clarity or depth, while expecting precise answers.
Sanctimonious surrender—feigned neutrality that masks fear and unbelief, pretending to be okay with anything, while inwardly nursing frustration.
This scripture is a cornerstone of understanding the nature of God as Father and the posture we should adopt in prayer. The vivid analogy presented—imagining being served stones instead of bread, or venomous snakes instead of nourishing fish—highlights a profound spiritual truth and corrects a common, often subconscious, misconception in our relationship with God.

1. The Core Analogy: God's Goodness vs. Our Fear
Jesus uses a powerful rhetorical argument (an a fortiori argument – "how much more"). He appeals to basic human parental instinct: even flawed, sinful ("evil") human parents desire to provide good, necessary things for their children. No loving earthly father would mock his child's hunger with a stone or endanger him with a serpent when asked for essential food.
The "Serpents for Supper" concept captures the dreadful absurdity of imagining God doing exactly that. It describes the spiritual pitfall where believers, despite intellectually acknowledging God's goodness, approach Him with underlying fear, suspicion, or a resignation to disappointment. We might:
• Project human failings onto God: Because earthly relationships can be sources of pain, betrayal, or unmet needs, we subconsciously fear God might operate similarly.
• Misinterpret hardship: When difficulties arise after prayer, we might quickly conclude, "God must have sent this 'stone' or 'serpent' instead of the 'bread' or 'fish' I asked for." This attributes malice or indifference to God, contradicting His revealed nature.
• Engage in false piety: Sometimes, a believer might adopt a posture of "whatever You will, Lord," which sounds submissive but masks a fear of asking for specifics, lest they be disappointed or appear demanding. This "contrived neutrality" distrusts God's willingness to engage with our genuine, specific needs and desires when they align with His kingdom.

2. The Character of the Father: The Foundation of Trust
The critical point Jesus makes is the infinite goodness and reliability of our Heavenly Father. He isn't just like a good human parent; He is the perfect standard of fatherhood, infinitely surpassing even the best earthly examples. His very nature is love (1 John 4:8) and goodness (Psalm 34:8). Therefore, the idea that He would respond to a sincere request for a "good thing" (spiritual nourishment, guidance, grace, provision aligned with His will) with something harmful or useless (a "stone" or "serpent") is contrary to His fundamental character.

3. The Invitation to Ask, Seek, Knock: Childlike Confidence
Jesus doesn't just reveal the Father's nature; He issues an invitation: "Ask, seek, knock." This implies:
• Relationship: Prayer is a dialogue within a secure relationship, like a child approaching a loving parent.
• Confidence: We are encouraged to come boldly (Hebrews 4:16), not timidly or suspiciously.
• Specificity and Honesty: Children naturally ask for what they want or need specifically. While our requests must always be submitted to God's wisdom and ultimate will ("Your kingdom come, Your will be done"), Jesus doesn't condemn specific requests. Asking for "bread" or "fish" is specific. The original text rightly encourages honesty about our needs and desires (e.g., specific grace, details in a home, qualities in a spouse), provided our hearts are aligned with God's purposes ("affections set on things above," Colossians 3:1-2) and our requests have scriptural warrant (they align with God's revealed will and character). God desires relationship, not robotic, fearful subservience.

4. Discerning God's Answers: Beyond Superficial Appearances
This is where spiritual wisdom is crucial. Life involves trials, challenges, and unanswered prayers as we perceive them. How do we reconcile this with Matthew 7:11?
• God's "Good Things" are Truly Good: God promises "good things." These are things that are ultimately beneficial for our spiritual growth, relationship with Him, and His kingdom purposes. This might not always align with our immediate comfort or definition of "good."
• Distinguishing Trials from Divine Malice: God may allow trials (James 1:2-4) or discipline us out of love (Hebrews 12:5-11), but this is fundamentally different from answering a child's request for necessary food with a harmful snake. God works in and through difficult circumstances for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28), but He doesn't substitute evil for good in direct answer to a righteous request.
• The Need for Discernment: When we receive something unexpected or difficult after prayer, we shouldn't automatically assume "God sent this stone." Instead, we should:

Check our Request: Was it aligned with God's Word and character? Was our motive pure (James 4:3)?
Examine God's Character: Does this outcome reflect the loving Father revealed in Scripture? Or does it feel like a "serpent"?
Seek Wisdom: Pray for understanding (James 1:5). Consult Scripture. Seek counsel from mature believers.
Trust His Ultimate Goodness: Even when we don't understand the specifics, we hold fast to the truth that our Father is good and gives good gifts. The answer might be "no," "wait," or something different that is ultimately better, but it won't be the spiritual equivalent of a stone or a serpent.

Furthermore, we are not more spiritual by pretending we have no preferences. God created us with desires and individuality, and He invites us to commune with Him as sons, not slaves. Provided our hearts are set on His kingdom and our requests are aligned with His revealed will in Scripture, we can boldly and specifically ask. Let this be the pattern of our prayer: specific requests, scriptural validation, and childlike trust. And if ever the answer seems off, let us not walk away in silence and sorrow—let us go back to the Father, check again, and listen more closely.
The concept of "Serpents for Supper" serves as a stark warning against approaching God with suspicion born from fear or misinterpreting hardship as divine malice in response to prayer. Profound biblical teaching, centered on Matthew 7:7-11, calls us to a radically trusting faith. We approach a Father of perfect goodness, wisdom, and love, who delights in giving "good things" to His children. We are invited to ask with childlike confidence and specificity, aligning our desires with His kingdom.
If you're praying for grace, define the area and the depth. If it's a home, describe what you believe He is leading you to. If it's a spouse, articulate the godly qualities you hope to find. This is not carnality—it is covenant faith grounded in trust.
When answers come, measure them not by fear or superficial appearances but by the Word. Did I ask God for this? Does this reflect His nature? Would a good Father serve this to a trusting child? Let us reject the lie that negative realities are somehow ‘holy’ answers to hopeful requests. Our God is not in the business of mockery. If we, frail and fallen, know not to trick our children with a snake when they ask for food, how much more the One who is Light and in whom there is no darkness at all?
While we must discern His answers wisely, we can rest assured that when we ask for the bread of life and sustenance for our journey, our Heavenly Father will never mock our need by serving us stones or endanger our souls by offering serpents for supper. He gives life, nourishment, and grace, according to His perfect will and infinite love.

© 2025 Green Olives Christian Books. All rights reserved.

Biblical Analysis of Mentoring and Development

1. Definition of Mentoring and Development from a Biblical Perspective
Mentoring, from a biblical standpoint, is more than training or coaching. It is a relational and spiritual partnership, where a more spiritually mature individual—led by the Holy Spirit—intentionally invests in the life, faith, character, and calling of another for the purpose of helping them become more like Christ. This investment is holistic: addressing doctrine, conduct, ministry effectiveness, and personal growth.
In Scripture, mentoring typically occurs through discipleship, spiritual parenting, or leadership development, and it always involves a two-way flow of truth and life—where the mentor both teaches and models the way of the Lord (1 Corinthians 11:1, Philippians 4:9).
Development, biblically, refers to the ongoing process of transformation, maturity, and preparation for God’s purposes. It involves being conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29), growing in the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), and being equipped for service (Ephesians 4:12-13). Development is God’s work in a person’s life, yet He uses human instruments—mentors—as part of that process.
"And we proclaim Him, admonishing every man and teaching every man with all wisdom, so that we may present every man complete in Christ." —Colossians 1:28 (NASB)

2. Significance of Mentoring Relationships in Scripture
Mentoring is not a modern invention—it is woven throughout the fabric of redemptive history:

• • God mentored Adam by walking with him in the garden.
• • Noah mentored his sons to preserve the covenant.
• • Moses mentored Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land.
• • Elijah mentored Elisha, preparing him for a double portion of prophetic ministry.
• • Jesus mentored the twelve disciples, pouring His life and truth into them for three years.
• • Paul mentored Timothy and Titus, shaping them into trusted leaders of the early church.

In each case, mentoring was not just about skill or knowledge—it was about shaping identity, vision, and spiritual inheritance. These relationships created continuity in the work of God across generations.

Mentoring in Scripture often involved:
• Impartation of wisdom, vision, and anointing.
• Imitation of godly example and lifestyle.
• Instruction in the ways and Word of God.
• Inspiration to pursue one’s divine calling.

3. Thesis: Mentoring as a God-Ordained Process for Spiritual and Personal Growth
Mentoring is not merely optional—it is God’s design for growth, both personally and corporately. The goal of the Christian life is maturity in Christ, and one of God’s key means of accomplishing this is through mentoring relationships.
Jesus, the perfect Son of God, could have established His Kingdom through angelic hosts or miraculous displays, but He chose to mentor twelve ordinary men. That choice reveals a divine principle: God works through relationships to build His Kingdom. Thus, mentoring is a sacred trust, a divine calling, and a powerful vehicle for growth, healing, leadership, and multiplication. It reflects the heart of God, who desires generational continuity and relational discipleship.
Hence, mentoring is a biblical model for reproducing spiritual life, transferring kingdom values, and raising godly leaders. It is God’s method for growth—rooted in relationship, grounded in truth, and guided by the Spirit.

II. Biblical Foundation for Mentoring
Mentoring is not merely a helpful strategy for growth; it is rooted in the divine pattern revealed throughout Scripture. From Genesis to the New Testament, God consistently works through intentional, relational discipleship to raise leaders, mature saints, and accomplish His purposes. Let's explore how both the Old and New Testaments provide a firm foundation for biblical mentoring.

1. The Great Commission as a Mentoring Mandate
Matthew 28:19–20 - “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you…” Jesus’ final instruction to His followers was not simply evangelism, but discipleship—a call to ongoing mentoring. The word “disciple” implies a learner or follower who submits to the life and teaching of another.

• Jesus modeled this by living with His disciples, teaching, correcting, equipping, and sending them out.
• He didn't just inform them; He formed them—emotionally, spiritually, and missionally.
• Mentoring, in this light, is a command embedded within the Great Commission.
This establishes mentoring as a divine strategy for sustaining the Church, passing on sound doctrine, and reproducing mature followers of Christ.

2. Old Testament Mentoring Relationships
a) Moses and Joshua
Deuteronomy 34:9 - “Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him…”
• Moses invested time in Joshua as his assistant (Exodus 24:13), bringing him into the presence of God and letting him observe leadership up close.
• He mentored him in character, courage, and faith, preparing him to lead Israel.
• The transfer of leadership was not abrupt—it was the fruit of mentoring.
Mentoring is succession with preparation. Leaders are shaped, not just appointed.

b) Elijah and Elisha
2 Kings 2:9 - “Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha said.
• Elijah called Elisha and discipled him over time (1 Kings 19:19-21).
• Elisha served Elijah, followed him, and received not just his mantle but a double portion of his spirit.
• The relationship culminated in Elisha continuing Elijah’s prophetic legacy with even greater impact.
True mentoring results in spiritual multiplication and legacy continuation.

3. New Testament Examples
a) Jesus and His Disciples
Mark 3:14 - “He appointed twelve that they might be with Him and that He might send them out…”
• Jesus’ method was relational. He walked, ate, prayed, and ministered with His disciples.
• He corrected, empowered, and entrusted them with ministry before His departure (Luke 9:1-2).
• After His resurrection, they carried His mission forward with power and wisdom (Acts 1:8; 2:42).
Mentoring involves both presence ("with Him") and purpose ("send them out").

b) Paul and Timothy
2 Timothy 2:1-2 - “The things you have heard me say… entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
• Paul refers to Timothy as his “beloved son” (1 Corinthians 4:17).
• He mentored Timothy in doctrine, ministry, character, and leadership.
• Paul didn’t merely preach to crowds; he invested deeply in individuals, preparing them for generational impact.
Mentoring is a multi-generational investment. Faithful mentoring builds leaders who build others.

c) Barnabas and Paul
Acts 11:25-26 - “Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul… and for a whole year they met with the church and taught…”
• Barnabas believed in Paul when others doubted him (Acts 9:26-27).
• He brought him into ministry, encouraged his gifts, and walked beside him during his early growth.
• Eventually, Paul emerged as the more prominent leader—but it all began with Barnabas’ encouragement.
Mentors identify, affirm, and launch potential in others—even when it's hidden.

III. Core Biblical Principles of Mentoring
• Discipleship as Spiritual Mentoring (2 Timothy 2:2): Paul instructs Timothy to pass on what he’s learned to faithful men—multiplicative mentorship.
• Wisdom Transfer (Proverbs 9:9-10): Mentoring imparts divine wisdom, shaping choices and character.
• Servant Leadership (John 13:12-17): Jesus modeled leadership through humble service—mentors serve, not dominate.
• Accountability and Counsel (Proverbs 11:14; 15:22): Wise mentoring includes counsel, correction, and spiritual covering.

IV. Development in Scripture
• Spiritual Growth and Sanctification (2 Peter 3:18): Mentoring fosters growth in grace and knowledge.
• Development of Character and Virtue (2 Peter 1:5-8): A guided path of adding to faith virtues like knowledge, self-control, and love.
• Stewardship of Talents (Matthew 25:14-30): Development includes faithful management and multiplication of God-given gifts.
• Transformation through Renewal (Romans 12:2): Mentoring renews the mind and aligns lives to God’s will.

V. Biblical Mentoring Models
• Rabbi-Disciple Relationship: Based on submission, learning, and imitation of the mentor (Jesus’ model).
• Shepherd-Flock Model (1 Peter 5:2-3): Caring leadership that protects and nurtures.
• Father-Son Relationship (1 Corinthians 4:15): Deep relational mentorship involving correction and affirmation.
• Fellow Servant Model (Philippians 2:25): Partnership and mutual edification in ministry.

VI. Mentoring Qualities from Scripture
• Humility (Philippians 2:3-4): True mentors consider others above themselves and serve without selfish ambition.
• Patience and Long-Suffering (Colossians 3:12): Development takes time; mentors must bear with weaknesses and encourage growth.
• Integrity and Faithfulness (Proverbs 20:7): A mentor’s example must be blameless and consistent.
• Love and Compassion (1 Corinthians 13:4-7): Love is the foundation of effective mentoring.

VII. Development Areas in Biblical Mentoring
• Spiritual Maturity and Discernment (Hebrews 5:14): Mentoring nurtures depth in understanding God’s will.
• Ministry Skills and Gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-7): Guided activation and sharpening of spiritual gifts.
• Character Formation (Romans 5:3-5): Perseverance and hope are cultivated through godly mentorship.
• Scriptural and Doctrinal Knowledge (2 Timothy 3:16-17): Mentoring ensures sound teaching and biblical literacy.
• Leadership Abilities (Exodus 18:21; Titus 1:5-9): Equipping emerging leaders with wisdom and discernment.

VIII. Application of Biblical Mentoring Principles Today
• Church Mentoring Programs: Intentional structures to disciple believers and raise leaders.
• Intergenerational Ministry (Titus 2:3-5): Elders mentoring youth fosters spiritual continuity.
• Christian Leadership Development: Mentoring ensures ethical and spirit-filled leadership in organizations.
• Christian Education: Mentoring is integral in forming doctrinal soundness and life application.

IX. Challenges and Pitfalls in Mentoring
• Pride and Authority Issues (3 John 1:9): Spiritual leaders must avoid controlling attitudes.
• Dependency vs. Empowerment: True mentors guide without creating unhealthy reliance.
• Grace and Truth Balance (John 1:14): Mentoring requires loving correction and merciful instruction.
• Boundaries (2 Timothy 2:22): Maintaining holiness and relational clarity is crucial, especially in cross-gender mentorships.

X. Legacy of Biblical Mentoring:
The ripple effect of godly mentoring spans generations—Joshua led Israel; Timothy led churches; the disciples turned the world upside down for Christ.

Call to Action:
Every believer is both a disciple and a discipler. We are called to invest in others, to multiply godliness, and to finish our course by reproducing faithful followers of Christ.

Eternal Impact:
Mentoring is not merely a strategy—it is an eternal ministry. Souls are shaped, destinies are aligned, and God is glorified through it.

© 2025 Green Olives Christian Books. All rights reserved.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE - SELF-MOTIVATION

Reading from the book of 1 Samuel 30:1-6, it described the challenge that David faced and the right step he took. "And David was greatly distressed... but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God." (1 Samuel 30:6)
Understanding Self-Motivation in the Light of Scripture
Self-motivation is the inner drive that propels a person forward despite difficulties and obstacles. It is an essential component of emotional intelligence, enabling individuals to persevere in the face of adversity rather than succumbing to discouragement, self-pity, or blame-shifting.
King David is a prime biblical example of self-motivation. In 1 Samuel 30:1-6, David faced one of the most distressing moments of his life—his city, Ziklag, was burned, and his family, along with those of his men, was taken captive. His own people even spoke of stoning him. Yet, rather than sinking into despair, David "encouraged himself in the Lord his God." This act of self-motivation propelled him to seek God’s guidance and ultimately recover all that was lost.

The Importance of Self-Motivation
1. Prevents Despair and Giving Up: Life is filled with trials—sickness, financial struggles, academic failures, and opposition from others. Those who lack self-motivation often fall into depression or quit in the face of hardship. Proverbs 24:10 warns, "If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small." Self-motivation strengthens our resolve to keep going.
2. Promotes Faith and Trust in God: The ability to encourage oneself in the Lord fosters unwavering faith. Hebrews 10:23 says, "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)." Those who stay motivated find hope even in dark situations because they trust in God’s unfailing promises.
3. Develops Courage in the Face of Challenges: The challenges of life can be intimidating, but self-motivation enables believers to rise above fear. Joshua 1:9 reminds us, "Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." With self-motivation, one can face adversity head-on with confidence in God.

How to Develop Self-Motivation
1. Encourage Yourself in the Lord: Like David, learn to turn to God in distressing situations. Sing songs of praise, meditate on His Word, and remind yourself of past victories He has given you.
2. Stay Focused on God’s Promises: The Bible is filled with divine assurances. Memorize and declare them over your life. Isaiah 41:10 says, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."
3. Maintain a Positive Confession: What you say about your situation matters. Proverbs 18:21 states, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." Speak life into your circumstances rather than negativity.
4. Surround Yourself with Godly Encouragement: Engage with people who uplift your spirit. Avoid company that drains your faith. Proverbs 27:17 says, "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend."
The Power of Singing and Trusting in God: Paul and Silas, in Acts 16:25-26, were imprisoned, yet they sang praises to God. Their self-motivation, despite their suffering, led to divine intervention. Likewise, when your trials seem overwhelming, sing and trust in God. The battle you are facing will soon be over if you believe and remain motivated in the Lord.
A Call to Salvation: If you have not given your life to Christ, self-motivation alone will not sustain you. True strength comes from knowing Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Surrender your life to Him, and He will empower you to overcome every challenge.
Prayer: Lord, help me to stay motivated and encouraged in You, no matter the challenges I face. Strengthen my faith, and let my trust in You remain unshaken. Amen.

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