The Courage To Connect

Do you believe that you have what it takes to win, overcome, and succeed in life? Do you know that God has already placed within you the unique abilities necessary to fulfill your call and rise above the obstacles you encounter? 

Warfare is inside your mind, more than in your circumstance. Don’t believe the lies the devil throws at you. 

I was thinking today about the “Connection Economy,” a term coined by Seth Godin. The Connection Economy describes how the online community can provide a powerful platform for sharing ideas and bringing like-minded people together. We have seen this concept blossom in recent years through social media sites and applications. 

There are five lies in particular that come to mind when considering the Connection Economy and how this relates to stepping out and making connections with others, both personally and professionally. 

The FIRST LIE is that you’re going to need far more talent than you were born with, that you don’t have enough and need something more, some special trust, impartation or guru to give you the missing piece.

Everything you need is in you, now. You may need to develop these gifts, talents and abilities depending on the challenge, but you are already equipped for the task. 

The SECOND LIE is connected to the first. Don’t believe that the people who are leading in the Connection Economy got there because they have something you don’t, know something you don’t or have advantages you don’t have. Even if these individuals do have “more” knowledge or resources, don’t be distracted by their story.

The THIRD LIE is that you have to be chosen in order to stand out. You, as a believer, are more chosen than a multitude of those who are hostile to the faith. The difference is that the devil resists you more vigorously than those who have no kingdom agenda.

The FOURTH LIE is that those we see out there making a difference aren’t afraid. 

How are we afraid?

We are afraid to lead, to make a ruckus, to be controversial and misunderstood. Yet believers and unbelievers all bear the malice of hell and fight through a gauntlet of fear and negativity in order to do something positive. Joshua 1:9 reminds us to turn to the Lord when we are afraid: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” We must be vulnerable and risk being seen for who we are.

The “Connection Economy” isn’t based on funding, or buildings or high-up connections. It’s built on those who convey a message others resonate with. It is an economy built on the currency of your ability to inspire trust and hope and passion in others.

The FIFTH LIE is that you need to wait. The timing isn’t right.

The TRUTH is this—the future belongs to those that care deeply, feel strongly, and believe fully in something bigger than themselves.

This is YOUR hour. Step into it!