business networking

A few weeks ago, I set up and activated a LinkedIN account.  I am in the process of starting my life coaching business, so joining LinkedIN seemed like a “professional” next right step.  Unsure and a little nervous, I filled in the blanks, made up a summary, noted my experiences and completed the other pages.  Then, the clicking began…invites galore to link with “my people or tribe.”  It was fun and, I must say, a little exhilarating inviting people to connect with me on LinkedIN.

Fast forward to today, Halloween 2012.  It was cold and spitting snow, so running outside was out.  I jumped in the car and headed to the YMCA.  Popped in the ear buds and loaded up a sermon so I could exercise and learn (yes, multi-tasker here). Exercise is much more exciting, if I can learn too!  Jumped on the elliptical, and hit play. The message was really good, but what jumped out was the pastor’s use of the words “linked in.” And he wasn’t referencing the network of “LinkedIN.” He used the words two different times and each time, despite panting, sweating and thinking 10 more minutes, 10 more minutes, the words, “linked in,” resonated in my ears and my mind started whirling.

My whirling thoughts:

I have been very intrigued by social media and networking and how it allows me to connect with people, family and friends, all over the world and for various reasons and purposes.  I am a user of many: FB, Twitter, Instagram, Stumble, LinkedIn.  Social media is fun for me; it facilitates my learning, lets me encourage and be encouraged and will, I believe, help me grow a coaching business.  Networking excites me, and you must know, it’s a balancing act for me to not let it consume me and my time!  Anyway, I believe that my networks are important and will absolutely serve a purpose, if I use them wisely.

All that to say, those words “linked in” made me stop and think about God and my being “linked in” with Him…to HIS network.

I realized, I could have the biggest LinkedIN network out there and that would be great, because to be honest that would make me feel pretty darn important and feed my little prideful-ego that I battle daily.  Goodness, the energy I have spent focusing on how to “grow” my network…all for me.  If Jesus isn’t my biggest, primary network, I will be living my life for me, selfishly and prideful, while performing, and attempting to do, be and build for reasons and purposes that will not align with God’s.

My LinkedIN lesson today:  Each day, before I go off, head out and do what I do, my own agenda, plans and selfish desires, I must make some choices.  First, make the choice to lay aside my networking gadgets.  Next, make the choice to take a deep breath, grab my Bible, journal and pen.  Finally, to login to my “JesusLINK” account first; then be still before Him, to allow Him to encourage, teach, and direct my steps for the day.

I am reminded that God desires relationship with me and apart from Him I can do nothing.

“I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant.”  John 15:5 MSG

Questions: What are your thoughts about being “linked in” with Jesus, as your first go-to network?  And if you haven’t connected yet, are you willing to send an invite to be “LinkedIN”?