A Disciple and a Mentor

Related Scripture:

“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”

Proverbs 27:17

In a high-stakes moment on the football field, a rising official found himself at the center of controversy. With fans clamoring for a pass-interference call, he stood firm—no flag. Yet as the roar of hometown disapproval grew louder, his confidence wavered. His posture slumped, and doubt crept into his expression.  Across the field, a fellow crew member, having also seen the play, shouted encouragement: “Great no-call! The defender got higher than the receiver and batted the ball before any contact occurred!”

Immediately, the ruling official’s poise and confidence returned to him. He had just received confirmation that what he had seen was indeed correct. Not only had he been supported, but he’d also been restored—by someone who saw what he saw and spoke truth into uncertainty.

One of the first things Jesus did when he began his ministry was to seek others to help him. Not because he lacked power, but because he was God in the flesh. But by mentoring and discipleship, He spread the Word and built a legacy that would endure beyond his time on Earth.  Proverbs 11:14 tells us, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”  We all need mentors in our officiating world as well as in our Christian life.

We are fortunate to have an organization known as “Fellowship of Christian Officials” in our midst. But let’s not merely lean on it—let’s lead through it.  Let’s embody the spirit of both mentee and mentor, in our faith and our avocation.

Questions to Ponder:

Who is your spiritual mentor?

Who are you discipling?

Bobby Walker - Hawkinsville, GA - Middle Georgia Football Officials Association