Who Are Your Timothy’s?

“Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God according to the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, to Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.” 2 Timothy 2:1-3

During the course of my 58 years, I am thankful for the godly men who came alongside of me to mentor and disciple me in my Christian life.

There were three men in my home church growing up – Carl Shoemaker, Woody Adcock and Bill Winterberg. All three men saw abilities and talents in my life that they wanted to see me develop. At the age of 12 and 13, they encouraged me to use my musical abilities for the Lord.

Carl and Gertie Shoemaker had a larger children’s ministry called Kids Corner and encouraged me to lead singing and develop my platform skills. Woody Adcock taught me the importance of memorizing Scripture and had our whole Sunday School class memorize verses in order to go to camp.

Bill Winterberg helped me to develop my skills in directing a choir, but also continued to push me to read. He would give me books, and then ask me to tell him what I learned. Into my late 40’s he would call me and ask me, “What are you reading??

The man who mentored me the longest has been my lifelong friend and teacher, Neil Fichthorn. It started when I served under him on summer staff at Sandy Cove – and 45+ years later, I am still learning from him. I often find myself doing things, saying things, and thinking the way he taught me.

Paul loved Timothy and he invested much time in his life. He wrote two amazing letters to Timothy addressing pertinent topics that would carry Timothy into ministry years later.

At this stage of my life, I am realizing that one of my roles is to become that Paul in the lives of the Timothy’s God brings across my path. Last week one of my staff thanked me for mentoring their son. This young man has so many incredible gifts. And to think that I have had a small part in his life is very humbling, but also rewarding.

Tomorrow’s Freedom Fighter was written by this young Timothy. He is a part of the millennial generation. One of the characteristics of this generation is that they are looking to be mentored.

By the way – the cycle is continuing – Graeme is now mentoring my son, Zach. How cool is that?

Who has God placed in your life to be your Timothy? Don’t miss the opportunity to mentor that young man.

Running the race with joy,

Bill Welte
President/CEO America’s Keswick

Daily Bible Reading: Numbers 20-22; Matthew 1

Quote of the day: God did not call us to sit, soak, and sour – but to SERVE! – Dr. Adrian Rogers

Bible Memory: “In your steadfast love give me life, that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.” Psalm 119:88