Spiritual Mentoring Quotes

“Often Bible study consists of a brief half-page devotional, the predigested thoughts of others or the pooled ignorance of feelings-dominated Bible studies in which the primary question is "What does this passage mean to you?”
― Keith R. Anderson, Spiritual Mentoring: A Guide for Seeking & Giving Direction

“Much spiritual self-help today fails because the focus remains exclusively on the self How can I grow? How can I experience God more fully? How can I access the power of the Holy Spirit? How can I develop my faith? All of these are limited questions that lead to disappointment because they do not focus on God. The unison voice of the classical spiritual teachers recounts that spiritual growth always begins with an awareness of the character and nature of God. God starts the process; we respond.”
― Keith R. Anderson, Spiritual Mentoring: A Guide for Seeking & Giving Direction

“Unknowing refers to the moments when "diligent catechesis is not required and a "leisurely pause before mystery is."27 Uncaring refers to the detachment of heart and spirit when the mentor gets out of the way and allows the Holy Spirit to do the caring. As Peterson points out, "There are moments when caring is not required, when detachment is appropriate. What the Spirit is doing in other persons far exceeds what we ourselves are doing."28
Such wisdom is certainly hard to acquire through formal education in the Western world. We are taught to know, and we are motivated to care. Such activities animate us and validate us in the work of ministry for others. The wisdom of Peterson's experience is the paradox of knowing and caring enough not to interfere. Ordination or a degree is not a prerequisite for such skills.”
― Keith R. Anderson, Spiritual Mentoring: A Guide for Seeking & Giving Direction

“Christian tradition is the lived and tested experience and reflection of a diverse body of
people over time united by a commitment to approach the purpose and way of life through the lineage of Jesus Christ" (emphasis added).4 These four words are descriptive of the process: lived, tested, reflected and committed.”
― Keith R. Anderson, Spiritual Mentoring: A Guide for Seeking & Giving Direction

“Who is God? Who am I? What does God want to do for his kingdom purposes through my unique voice?”
― Keith R. Anderson, Spiritual Mentoring: A Guide for Seeking & Giving Direction