One of the most conflicting areas of ministry for me has
been the importance of networking. It’s
something that is helpful as you build a list of contacts for info, a
sounding board, project partners, prayer, support and basic ministry resources. And, it’s great for seeing new perspectives and
seeing what is going on beyond your world.
There are many benefits to networking but I've come to the conclusion
that networking for ministry and networking for business are two different
things.
Over the past year, I’ve been introduced to many men and
women in all types of church/ministry leadership positions.
It’s intimidating at times as I realize how little I know in light of
their expertise and wisdom. Yet it’s
eye-opening as I realize how much it’s still about who you know in church
life.
I’ve always believed that when God has a plan in mind for
you, He will make it happen. He will put
the right people in your path, orchestrate the right circumstances and He will
guide you where He wants you. It’s not
something you have to stress over and force because God has already done the work
for you (I Corinthians 14:33).
Lately, there have been some really awkward and embarrassing
situations where I’ve met people because they were recommended to me as a
potential resource and/or connection.
Honestly, I don’t know why I’m meeting them except that they were
referred to me as good people to meet (and they really are good people to
meet). Yet in these awkward encounters,
it feels so forced, it’s not “me” nor is it the first impression I want them to have
of me and more importantly of God and of myMISSION. In the middle of situations like these, I’m
left questioning what in the world I’m doing and where is the leader within me
as my insecurities take over.
During a recent introduction and awkward five minute conversation that
followed, it hit me that this is not where I need to
be. God has entrusted young women in my
care to love and to serve. It’s about
them, not about who I know or need to know or who could help me grow. God has already taken care of that! And for the past 14 months, in His time
(not mine), God placed key people in my life and opened doors
that I didn’t have to force open.
Ministry isn’t about who you know, it’s about WHO you know
(God). And when God does the networking
for you, it’s unmistakable by all and you just know that introduction was a
God-thing and God-results flow from it. Don't force it...God will make the connections happen in His time!
