This concept has come up several times over the last few weeks: we need community. And more and more — we need it to be real.

Truthful, loving partnerships are hard to come by. I don’t care if we're talking about business, marriage, or ministry—two people who want the best for each other, love each other’s strengths, and are willing to tell the truth have the recipe for doing something extraordinary together.

Have you ever sat down with someone you just met and, after an hour, felt like you’d known them for years?

That happened to me this morning. A connection through a mutual friend turned into one of those conversations that just flows. We had plenty in common.  A similar background in our industry, a shared faith in Christ, both raising kids, both trying to lead well at home and at work. There was a lot of overlap.

Most of us have taken some sort of strengths, gifts, or personality test at some point. It could have been StrengthsFinder 2.0, a spiritual gifts assessment, or something specific for your current role. These tools help us understand where we’re naturally wired to thrive. But here’s the thing: understanding your strengths is only the first step. Actually utilizing your strengths —and the strengths of those around you—is a whole different story.

Recognizing the strengths of others is a crucial skill, yet it is often easier to acknowledge abilities that align with our own priorities or values. When someone excels in an area we naturally appreciate, their talents stand out. However, when their strengths lie in domains unfamiliar to us, we may overlook them.

I've come to realize on my journey that going it alone is virtually impossible for a mission that lasts. Things can move quicker when done solo, but put to any test of scale and over time, cracks soon form. Like many leaders, I've had my share of issues in relinquishing control. But this isn't just an issue of outlasting and scaling work—it's also about having others to share life with. With that comes the effort, the sacrifice, and also the celebrations.

"If you want to go fast, go alone.  If you want to go far, go together."

In our modern world of specialization, the importance of having a strong and diverse network cannot be overstated. The phrase "Jack of all Trades" is often followed by the phrase "Master of None," and mastery is the goal in most cases. We are most useful when we fully embrace and develop our strengths.

Each week, our business leadership team prays that God will bring the right people into our path—those meant to encounter or join our mission. It can be difficult to discern divine appointments from coincidences or personal efforts. Yet, sometimes the Holy Spirit creates an introduction that is unmistakably His work.

Mentorship is crucial at every stage of life. As my network has grown, I’ve realized that the most fruitful relationships stem from a mutual desire to grow and improve together. Trusted friendships and mentorships have shaped a positive, impactful life. After all, isn’t that the goal? Our relationships should not only be enjoyable but should also propel us forward.

In today's fast-paced digital age, technology has changed the way we communicate. From text messages to Zoom calls, we have tools at our disposal that allow us to connect instantly, no matter the distance. However, research consistently reveals that face-to-face interaction remains far superior when it comes to building deep, meaningful relationships and fostering trust—both personally and professionally.