TO GET BETTER, LEARN FROM THOSE WHO ARE BETTER

If you want to get better at something, what’s the best way to make that happen?  First, you may start with some research, i.e., read books, or look it up on line. Then, you may talk to other people who are really good at it and finally, ask one of those people to mentor you. Ever since I saw the movie, A River Runs Through It, I was intrigued with fly fishing and wanted to learn how to do it.

A good friend of mine, Scott, is an expert fly fisherman. So, when I made the commitment to learn how to fly fish and get good at it, he was the obvious choice to teach me. The first step was to do some online research and to take one of his fly tying classes, next we talked a lot about fly fishing and finally, I took action. The taking action phase is where I learned the most. During this phase there was challenge and accountability. It can be relaxing to watch an expert fly fisherman because their motions are smooth and hypnotic…mine were not. The first time to the river was the most humbling for me. Like a good mentor, he gave me valuable advice, watched me make a few casts, gave more advice, and then sent me down stream on my own. Every so often he came to check on me and give more advice. Even though I tangled the fishing line countless times and snagged myself twice, a few fish graced me with their fight.  We’ve had several outings since and I continue to improve. Thanks to my mentor, I’ve recently ventured out on my own with success! I look forward to passing this skill on to others.

 



Scott working his magic under the canopy of timber of course.



 

 Becoming a better Christian can happen the same way.

·         Do your research: read the Bible;

·         Talk to those who know more: go to church and get involved;

·         Find a mentor: ask a spiritually mature person to teach you;

·         Finally, pass what you’ve learned on to someone else.

 

1 Peter 5:5-7 In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,

“God opposes the proud
    but shows favor to the humble.”

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.