Most people, especially teens, are asking some of life’s biggest questions:
- “Who am I?”
- “Why am I here?”
- “Does my life really matter?”
- “How do I know what my God-given purpose is?”
As mentors, we have the privilege—and responsibility—of walking alongside them as they wrestle with these questions. The good news? God has already spoken truth over their lives. Our role is to help them hear it.
1. Remind them: They are created on purpose, for a purpose
The Bible makes it clear: every person is wonderfully made and uniquely gifted.
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)
Many people, especially teens, feel lost in a noisy, comparison-driven world. Negative peer pressure is a powerful force. Mentors can help refocus them on the truth:
- They are not accidents.
- Their lives matter deeply to God.
2. Encourage them to explore their gifts and passions
Purpose often grows at the intersection of what we love and how we serve others.
Ask questions like:
- “What activities make you feel alive?”
- “What are some talents or skills God has given you?”
- “How could you use those gifts to help others?”
- “If you had all the qualifications you needed, what job or career pathway would you choose to follow?” (Answers to this question often reveal a person’s passion)
Encourage them to explore different options and opportunities, to try new hobbies, volunteer, and reflect on what brings joy, and a sense of peace to their lives.
3. Model purpose in your own life
People, especially young people, watch how we live—and respond to challenges—more than they listen to what we say.
If we are authentic, and live with integrity, joy, and a sense of calling, we model a life of purpose.
Share your life journey—your struggles, detours, and the ways you’ve seen God’s hand guiding your story.
4. Pray with and for them
Prayer invites God into the mentoring relationship.
Pray:
- For clarity in their decisions.
- For courage—and discernment—when they feel uncertain.
- For their hearts to be open to God’s leading.
- For their lives to become more Christlike each and every day.
Let them know you’re praying for them regularly. That simple encouragement can anchor a person’s heart during confusing seasons. It is also a reminder that they never walk alone, as not only is God always with them, but there is also at least one other person who cares about their health and wellbeing praying regularly for them.
Concluding Thought: Purpose is a journey, not a destination
No-one can figure out their whole life’s purpose overnight. As authentic, non-judgmental, empathetic mentors, we can walk the road with them—listening, encouraging, and pointing them back to God’s truth.
Remind them:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Cover photo: Pietro De Grandi, Unsplash
