Question: Why is a Personal Mentor Better Than Simply Asking Google?
Answer: While computers are great at giving mountains of knowledge, mentors walk with you and provide hard earned wisdom they have gained along the way.
I have been asked recently why RLC is slowly transitioning to giving more and more space for people to process things together and ask questions. We have questions for reflection at the bottom of message notes, QR codes to send in questions, question links on podcast, and more. The simple answer is that we want to walk with you as you take the next step in your pursuit of God.
In this digital age, it’s tempting to turn to Google for answers to just about everything. And let’s be honest, Google is a fantastic tool for quick information. But today, I want to talk about why having personal mentors (your church family)—people who walks alongside you in your journey—is far better than simply relying on the vast ocean of the internet.
1- Personalized Guidance
Google can give you millions of search results in seconds, but how do you know which one is right for you? A mentor, on the other hand, knows you personally and can offer advice that’s tailored to your unique situation. They understand your strengths, weaknesses, goals, and dreams. Their guidance is like a custom-made suit, fitting you perfectly and helping you navigate life’s challenges with precision.
They can factor in the conversations you have had before and they know where you want to go. Also, let‘s be honest. Google doesn’t rank their results based on what is the most true. They rank them based on paid ads and clicks. This means there is no telling what you might read. If you are unfamiliar with the content, you may inadvertently be led down the wrong path.
2- Experience and Wisdom
There’s a world of difference between knowledge and wisdom. Google is packed with information, but it’s your mentor’s life experiences and wisdom that make all the difference. They’ve walked the path before you, stumbled, learned, and grown. Their stories, insights, and practical tips are treasures you won’t find on any webpage.
The other day, I met with my doctor for an annual check-up. A couple of my blood test results had me concerned. He saw the same results I did. However, he also knew my history, had been a doctor for many years, and knew what else they could mean. After hearing his explanation, those results looked very different… in a good way. I had googled them and the results had me thinking there was a chance of cancer. Within 30 seconds, my doctor helped me realize I was just getting old. Ha.
3- Accountability and Motivation
We all need a little push sometimes, don’t we? A mentor provides that accountability and motivation that can be hard to find on your own. They check in on your progress, celebrate your victories, and help you up when you stumble. Unlike Google, which is a one-way street, a mentor actively engages with you, encouraging you to stay on track and reach your full potential.
Everyone enjoys encouragement. That’s a good thing. However, a good mentor gives us the push we sometimes need more.
4- Networking Opportunities
Ever heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know”? Mentors often have extensive networks and can introduce you to people who can open doors to new opportunities. Whether it’s a job, a project, or a new venture, your mentor’s connections can be invaluable. Google can’t make those personal introductions for you.
I have watched mentors connect people who really needed each other. I knew of a lady one time who had come down with a certain form of cancer. It was scary because she was the first one in her family who had ever dealt with it. This mentor knew of another lady who had been through something similar. The connection they were able to make was priceless. Google can give you great tips and ideas but it cannot connect you to other people who are willing to share in your journey.
5- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
Life isn’t always black and white, and sometimes the answers aren’t straightforward. A mentor helps you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by engaging you in meaningful conversations and challenging your assumptions. They help you see different perspectives and think deeply about issues. This interactive dialogue is something Google simply can’t provide.
So, while Google is great for quick answers, remember that having a personal mentor is like having a wise guide on your journey. They offer personalized support, share their hard-earned wisdom, keep you accountable, connect you with opportunities, and help you grow in ways that no search engine ever could.
Don’t get me wrong, I love technology. Technology has made this generation the smartest generation to ever live. However, knowledge does not equal wisdom. The book of Proverbs says knowledge + understanding (experience) = wisdom. Mentors help guide our experiences and journey so we can one day pass on our wisdom to others.
