As a Son with a Father. Philippians 2:22. “But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.” A young man observes an older man of faith and considers whether he should approach him and ask for mentorship. The older man notices a young man with grace and a unique kindness that distinguishes him from many others. As they observe each other, perhaps even secretly, there is a mutual attraction that feels appropriate and Spirit-led.
When they finally come together and discover they share mutual interests in God's things, the young man listens and learns when the older one speaks. The older man takes time to understand what the younger one is seeking, and as they listen to each other, both can see and feel what is meant beyond the words. They both realize they are seeking not their own will but the Lord’s.
The young man watches attentively as the older man leads a conversation or deals with a serious matter. The older man creates opportunities for the younger one to listen and offer his own comments about what is being discussed and done. Soon, they will realize they can work together on the tasks God has given them. The younger man's spiritual abilities grow as he observes the understanding and skill of the older man, which come from experience.
The younger man has questions to ask in their private conversations, which pleases the older man as he takes time to consider the younger man’s viewpoint and personal observations. They learn to talk freely with each other as they share truth from the word of God and fellowship in serving God. The older man sees that the younger man has the same earnest care for people as he does and is confident the work will continue as the Lord intends after he has gone home to heaven.
This principle of passing on truth and practicing it as Paul instructed Timothy still persists through all generations. Just as a son learns from his father how to handle life’s situations and do everyday tasks in his occupation, when two work together in the Lord's work, the younger learns from the older how to bear the yoke in youth and carry heavy burdens for others.