Stories from our field
“Being a mentor has taught me self-control”
At GlobalRize we are blessed with people who show a deep understanding of the Gospel. Nahiri Jean Charles Nahiri from our French language team is one of them. He has been one of our mentors since 2016.
It is easy to see that Nahiri is a literature and linguistic specialist with his sensitive use of language. He writes, ‘The Bible teaches us to “bear with one another” (Col. 3:13) and “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). To interpret these two verses intertwiningly, I would argue that “love” is a way (if not the way) to “bear” or support others from a biblical perspective. God’s gift for human salvation was a product of His love. His acceptance of us and forgiveness of our disobedience, in Christ, is triggered by His love for us.’
Thus, God’s bearing with us can only be understood in light of His selfless, unconditional love. We can reflect that tolerance in our loving attitude to our neighbor – also, or especially, if our neighbor has lost their way.
All sorts of struggles
Nahiri continues,’GlobalRize is a platform where I can exercise that “love”. As a mentor, I come across students who trust the Lord enough to open up to me. They share about a variety of challenges that they face: sexual sins such as adultery or pornography, family problems, social issues and other sorts of struggles.
For my responses, I draw on experiences recorded in the Bible, personal experience and lessons from others. My advice is often “meditate on God’s Word”’, “pray without ceasing”, and “always walk in obedience to God”. I firmly believe the Lord still strongly loves them in spite of their stumbling.’
Self-control
Nahiri adds, ‘Being a mentor has taught me self-control. Sometimes, due to fatigue, I am tempted to think of some of the questions as “stupid”, but I am cautious. A bad answer can be destructive.
Best of all, being a mentor gives me the chance to see people coming to Christ, or rededicating their lives to Him and growing up to maturity in their faith.
In summary, volunteering with GlobalRize, helps me to demonstrate the love of God, helps me develop my personality and gives me the chance to see the mighty power of God at work in the lives of His people. Shalom!’
