I still remember the day Michelle joined the team I was on. It was a demanding time for our organization, and she seemed unsure, trying to find her place in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. I felt prompted to come alongside her—to listen, to encourage, and to offer support. I was thrilled to see how quickly her confidence grew. Her bold creativity blossomed and soon began to elevate our work in ways none of us had anticipated.

Then one day, she introduced me… as her mentor.

I was surprised. We had never formalized a mentoring relationship. But through simple presence, heart-felt encouragement, and a willingness to share from my own journey, a meaningful relationship had developed. What Michelle needed was someone to believe in her and provide a wise perspective.

That’s the quiet power of mentoring.

Mentoring Is a Biblical Model for Growth

Scripture is filled with mentoring relationships: Moses and Joshua, Naomi and Ruth, Paul and Timothy. At its heart, mentoring is discipleship in action. It’s one believer investing in another, helping them grow in wisdom, purpose, and character while moving toward their goals. In the workplace, this looks like guiding others to use their gifts with confidence, excellence, and Christ-centered integrity.

The truth is none of us grow in isolation. We need people who have walked ahead of us—people who can help us see more clearly, challenge us lovingly, and remind us that we were created on purpose, for a purpose.

Why Mentors (and Mentees) Sometimes Hesitate

Many women hesitate to ask for a mentor. But just as often, potential mentors hold back too. I’ve heard it many times: “Do I really have anything to offer?” or “What if I don’t have all the answers?” But being a mentor isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about showing up with humility, wisdom, and a willingness to invest in someone else.

That’s why I’m such a believer in the 4word Mentor Program. Over 900 women have benefited from being matched with one of 4word’s 200+ experienced mentors—many of whom have served in executive roles and are eager to pour into the next generation. The program offers intentional matching and provides resources to make the experience fruitful for both mentor and mentee.

How to Prepare for a Meaningful Mentoring Experience

If you’re ready to grow, a mentor can be a powerful asset. But preparation matters. Here’s how to make the most of the experience:

• -Clarify your direction. Where do you feel called in your career? What dreams or nudges has God placed on your heart?
• -Identify growth areas. What skills do you want to sharpen? What’s holding you back?
• -Reflect on your values. What matters most to you as you grow? Integrity? Influence? Purpose? Bring these into the conversation.
• -Own the process. As the mentee, it’s your responsibility to take initiative. Schedule your sessions, come prepared, and follow through. Your mentor will share insight and ask meaningful questions, but you’re the one who is responsible for discerning your next steps.

Mentoring isn’t just about getting ahead—it’s about growing deeper. It’s about discovering how your work can reflect God’s goodness in the world.

You’re Not Alone on the Journey

The workplace can feel lonely—especially when you’re navigating big decisions or discerning what God wants next for you. But you don’t have to walk alone. There are women who’ve been where you are and who are ready to walk with you.

Here is what one woman who went through the 4word Mentor Program shared, “My mentor gave me the confidence to make the changes I needed and put me on track to begin a new and exciting chapter.”

So, what are you waiting for? Over 200 mentors in the 4word community are ready to encourage, challenge, and invest in women just like you—women who want to lead with wisdom, walk in faith, and work with purpose.

Check out the 4word mentor program today.