September 16
Guiding
a Lost Path
"Start children off on the right path. And even when they grow old, they will not turn away from it."
Proverbs 22:6 (NIrV)
Michael parked his car outside the community center, exhaling slowly. He had been mentoring teens for years, but something about Jordan made him pray a little harder. At fifteen, Jordan was already skipping school, running with the wrong crowd, and picking fights. Most people had written him off, but Michael couldn’t.
Jordan reminded him too much of himself at that age—angry, lost, and convinced he didn’t need anyone. That’s why Michael showed up every week, no matter how many times Jordan rolled his eyes or acted like he didn’t care.
One evening, Michael found Jordan waiting for him outside the gym. “Hey,” Jordan muttered, kicking at the pavement. “Can we just drive around or something?”
Michael nodded, keeping quiet as Jordan stared out the window. After a while, Jordan spoke. “I don’t know why you keep trying. Everyone else gave up on me.”
Michael tightened his grip on the wheel. “Because I see more in you, Jordan. God does too. You’re not stuck. You can still change your path.”
Jordan scoffed. “Yeah? And what if I don’t know how?”
Michael pulled over and turned to him. “You don’t have to figure it all out today. But you have to start somewhere. I had a mentor once who didn’t give up on me, even when I messed up. Now it’s my turn to do the same for you.”
For the first time, Jordan didn’t push back. He just nodded, looking out at the city lights.
That night, Michael prayed, “Lord, give me patience. I know change doesn’t happen overnight, but I trust You are working in Jordan’s heart.”
Weeks passed. The change was slow, but it was happening. Jordan started showing up on time. He stopped making excuses. He even asked Michael about faith. The path was still rough, but now, Jordan wasn’t walking it alone.
Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank You for placing people in our lives who guide us toward You.
Help us to be patient and persistent in mentoring those who are lost.
Let us never give up on anyone, just as You never give up on us.
May we trust that the seeds we plant today will grow in Your perfect time.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
