We live in a pretty volatile environment at this point in history, with some of the current isolating strategies of the enemy complicating our connection with people. What does solid God-connecting with others look like? How can I find the time and energy? How do I enhance my reliance upon God for this, and how do my intentions and skills impact this process?
It is important to consider the primary connectors and disconnectors to living a gift-empowered life. The keys to relational success are presented clearly within the God Story, where we learn of our Creator’s sincere desire for our personal success. In short – God not only is able to mentor us – His desire is to do just that. And He has unlimited relational capacity to do so!
What do you observe about connecting from this passage?
“Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly: if prophecy, according to the proportion of his faith; if service, in his serving; or he who teaches, in his teaching; or he who exhorts, in his exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation.
Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. “But is your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on His head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (see Proverbs 25:20-22) – Romans 12:6-21
Primary connectors to consider in this process: A submitted heart, authentic community, and active faith
Primary disconnectors: De-personalization of the Scriptures, lack of engagement, and personal pride and arrogance
Some great connection questions: Who has mentored you? Whom have you mentored? How has God mentored you?
Our people-connecting conversation with some friends: