Enrich Yourself Through
Right Connections
Be honest in your judgment and do not decide at a glance (superficially and by appearances); but judge fairly and righteously. John 7:24 Amplified Version
As we search throughout the scriptures, we can observe that the relationships which people were involved in were of grave importance. Therefore we must realize the significance of becoming associated with and connected to the right people.
Connections should be for the purpose of increase. Therefore I should be either the provider (being an asset to someone’s life) or the receiver (reaping a benefit) – but increase is a must. Wrong, non-productive relationships are considered one of those “weights which does so easily beset us” (Hebrews 12:1).
So let’s consider some of our connections. What do our: friends, acquaintances, religious and secular group memberships reveal? Are there any connections where I am currently not being increased – or increasing someone else? Some connections are temporary; seasonal - while others maintain the ability to perpetually be an asset in some fashion. When we don’t know the purpose for a relationship, nor have considered its nature – we will attempt to cling on to and transform those “passing connections” into permanent relationships.
We are in the era now where everyone seems to want to “network”. Everywhere you go people want to connect. This can be advantageous as well as detrimental. We must be on our spiritual guard at all times and realize that every “good connection” may not be a “God connection”.
Then there are those connections that go “against the grain” of many in Christendom. There may be times when the Lord will connect you to someone (s); involved in specific sins or unacceptable lifestyles… for the sake of assisting them to know Him. (Note: Don’t misunderstand! We are to NEVER become INVOLVED in anything that is contrary to the Word of God. The Lord will NEVER lead you into any area where you will be tempted to sin or in an area where you have not been totally delivered.)
I would like to encourage you to listen to the voice of the Lord. Far too often some Christians feel as though they too “holy” to be connected to or associated with various groups of people; even for the sake of ministry. My only response is this: If someone is in darkness, and you have a light, how can they come out of the darkness if you refuse to go to them and shine your light? Remember we are instructed to let our lights shine (Matthew 5:16). How will they find the correct path out of their darkness? The blind can’t lead the blind! Now I’m not condoning, permitting or agreeing with sin….. Sin is sin and is not to be excused nor overlooked. However, we should never feel as though we are too “anointed” to be connected with those to whom God leads us to. Nor should we attempt to discourage those who are being used of the Lord in areas where we are not comfortable or called to minister in.
In these last days; the Lord needs to connect those Saints who have a true love for Him … and are willing to share that love… to those who are still struggling in various areas.
God has given us to the ability to be sociable creatures. We therefore need connections. However, we must be certain that every connection will be constructive and offer increase, integrity, stamina... and above all… receive a stamp of approval from the Lord.
“Therefore encourage one another and build one …….” I Thessalonians 5:11a
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