Spiritual Fatherhood and Mentorship: Breaking the Ceiling and Empowering Destiny

In the Bible, the story of Mephibosheth is a profound example of spiritual mentorship. His nurse dropped him when she was supposed to be taking care of him, leaving him lame. This symbolizes how those meant to nurture us can sometimes cause harm, intentionally or unintentionally. The responsibility of a spiritual father or mentor is not only to guide and protect but also to recognize the potential within us and to help us reach our purpose.

We are told in In Galatians 4:1-2, that "Now I say that the heir, as long as he is a child, does not differ at all from a servant, though he is master of all." Although the child is destined for greatness, she/he cannot access their inheritance until they are mature enough to handle it. This reflects the importance of guidance from those who are  mature. In the same way, a mentor or father figure should not be a stumbling block but a catalyst for growth and maturity.

In our generation, many mentors and fathers in the faith have become a ceiling for the sons they are suppose to raise. Sadly, many mentors fail to see the potential in their disciples because they are insecure or intimidated by their growth. Instead of encouraging them to surpass them, they limit their growth. This stifles the destiny of those who should be rising and fulfilling their purpose. A true spiritual father or mentor is proud when their "child " succeeds and becomes greater than them.

2 Corinthians 3:5 reminds us, "Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God." Mentors and spiritual fathers must remember that God equips us and enables us to help others fulfill their destinies. We should never become a barrier to the advancement of those God has called us to nurture.

The Bible calls us to raise others, just as Eli raised Samuel. Samuel walked in his calling because Eli had the discernment to recognize God's voice and direct Samuel accordingly. 1 Samuel 3:8-9 says, “And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. So he arose, went to Eli, and said, ‘Here I am, for you did call me.’ Then Eli perceived that the Lord had called the boy.” The role of a mentor is not to live out your calling for you, but to help you recognize and walk on your own. This applies to prophets, pastors, and all who seek to guide others. The purpose is to raise others to do greater work than we are, not to hold them back.

John 14:12 reminds us of this greater calling: “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” A true father’s role is to sow the seed into the life of his child. Spiritually, a father should sow the seed of destiny into their mentees, nurturing them and helping them grow. When nurtured correctly, they bring forth the harvest of a fulfilled destiny.

Many seek mentorship from popular figures or those with titles, but miss the key element: Who carries the seed for your destiny? True mentors do not just carry titles; they carry the seeds of purpose that align with your calling. We often miss the opportunity to grow because we are not connected to the people who have the seeds we need. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 says, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase."

Just as we send children to school because we recognize that the school holds the capacity to nurture their growth, we must also recognize that the right mentors, called by God, have the wisdom and guidance needed to shape us for our destiny. Proverbs 15:22 says, "Without counsel, plans go awry, but in the multitude of counselors they are established." God will lead us to these mentors if we are willing to listen and follow His direction.

It is time to seek mentors who are after God's own heart—those who will help us grow into the people God has called us to be, without limiting our potential. Jeremiah 3:15 promises, "And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding."

God Bless You.