A Need for Community

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.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a leader at the top of a large org chart, an employee who feels lost in the system, or a solopreneur working from home — we all need others we can lean on and who can lean on us. It’s part of how we’re made.

Here’s what I’ve heard that’s been missing:

1. People want to connect beyond their daily roles. It’s not enough to just get a job done together. We long for connection that’s deeper than shared tasks or outcomes.

2. Leaders feel isolated. Many can’t be fully themselves with their peers or their staff. They don’t have it all together, and they don’t know all the answers — but they fake it, a lot. Some even feel like imposters inside their own organizations.

3. Solopreneurs crave authenticity. They love their work and their freedom, but often feel like they spend most of their time selling themselves. They want to be seen for who they truly are, not just as someone promoting their services. It’s hard to peel off the “business owner” layer and let people see what’s underneath.

That’s the short list — but it could easily go on. People feel disconnected today for a hundred reasons. I won’t bore you with another take on social media, AI, or why surface-level tech interactions don’t cut it.

So — let’s talk about why this really matters.

First… It’s How We Were Made.

Genesis 2:18 

The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Even before sin entered the world, God declared that isolation was “not good.” Humanity was designed for connection — both with God and with one another.

Genesis 1:26 

Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness…”
God Himself exists in eternal community — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — and He created us in that same relational image.
 

Why We Need One Another

Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor:
If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
...A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Genuine strength, encouragement, and resilience come from shared life — not just shared tasks.

Proverbs 27:17 

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
Growth happens through the friction and refinement of real relationships. We cannot grow through surface-level connection. There’s no sharpening there — only shallow validation. We need others who will tell us the truth in love.

Mutual Encouragement

Hebrews 10:24–25 

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,
not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing,
but encouraging one another — and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Gathering together isn’t optional; it’s vital for perseverance.
 

Galatians 6:2 (NIV)

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
True community means sharing both the weight and the work of life.

So What Do We Do About It?

We’re not going to escape our need for community — and we can’t fake it when it isn’t real. So, what can we actually do?

#1 – Find your local church and get involved.
If you’re a believer in Jesus, you already have common ground with His body. Join a volunteer team and get to know people who also care about serving. Find a Bible study or small group that fits your season of life. Don’t know where to start? Try Church Finder.

#2 – If you’re a leader, hire a coach.
A coach can help you process challenges, navigate strategy, and talk through the personal issues that often impact leadership. If you can’t fully open up to your team, a coach can be the perfect outlet for honest conversation and tough truth.

#3 – Lean into your primary relationships.
First — call on God. Pray more often. Read His Word. Let Him speak to you.
Next — if you’re married, lean into your spouse and deepen your bond.
Then — invest in your children or close family. Community doesn’t have to be big or complicated. It can begin with the people right in front of you.

Don’t let your current proximity or work environment keep you from close, personal relationships that make you stronger, more confident, and more loving.
You’ll be better all the way around — spiritually, emotionally, and relationally — when you take this need for community seriously.

-Mark

Partner Wisely

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.

Now... two of those things are relatively easy. Wanting the best for someone and appreciating their strengths? That’s doable. Even admirable. But telling the truth? That’s where it gets hard.

I consider myself incredibly blessed. I have that kind of truth-filled, loving partnership with my wife. I experience it with my business partners. And I’ve found it in nonprofit work, too. These relationships are among the most valuable things in my life. I can count on them—even when the work is difficult. We celebrate wins. We wrestle through challenges. And most importantly, we urge each other forward in life because our hearts are aligned around the same mission.

Let’s look at a biblical example of this kind of partnership—one that experienced ups, downs, and everything in between.

Paul & Barnabas

Key Passages: Acts 9, 11, 13–15

1. Love and Loyalty

Barnabas was one of the first believers to trust Paul after his dramatic conversion. While others still feared Paul for his past as a persecutor, Barnabas stepped in as an advocate.

“But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles...”
— Acts 9:27

This act of trust was pivotal—it gave Paul a place among the apostles and helped launch his ministry.

2. Shared Mission

Paul and Barnabas traveled together on Paul’s first missionary journey (Acts 13–14), preaching the gospel, planting churches, and enduring serious hardship. Their partnership was built on a shared love for Jesus and a willingness to suffer for the sake of the Kingdom.

3. Truth in Tension

But even the best partnerships experience friction. In Acts 15:36–41, we read about a moment of deep disagreement:

“They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company.”
— Acts 15:39

The issue? John Mark. Barnabas wanted to give him a second chance after he had previously abandoned them. Paul wasn’t convinced. Their convictions pulled them in different directions. This wasn’t about ego—it was about a genuine difference in how they believed the mission should move forward.

4. Reconciliation Over Time

Later in life, Paul’s heart softened:

“Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.”
— 2 Timothy 4:11

This tells us something powerful—Paul came to respect Barnabas’s perspective and saw the value of John Mark’s restoration. It’s a beautiful reminder that even after tension, truth and love can pave the way to reconciliation and renewed respect.

The mission of expanding the gospel was central to both Paul and Barnabas. Life didn’t get easier. Their opinions didn’t always align. But their hearts stayed rooted in what mattered most—faithfulness to God and the call to make disciples.

If you’re blessed with God-loving, life-giving partnerships, don’t take them for granted. Water them. Celebrate them. Invest in them.

If you don’t yet have that, but you’re seeking it—pray often and link arms with people who share your core values. Small disagreements and differing opinions are inevitable. We’re human. But shared conviction on what matters most will keep you united and moving forward.

We can’t do life, business, or ministry alone. We need each other.

Partner wisely.

-Mark

In Common

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.

But one thing stood out: we both shared the common struggle of doing hard things that require faithful steps into the unknown. That journey — walking into fog with trust instead of clarity — is something not everyone understands.

Because here’s what all humans have in common: a deep desire for clarity and some sense of control. We want to know what’s next. We want to feel secure. We want certainty.

But here’s what not everyone has in common: a faith that trusts God even when the path is uncertain. A faith that holds fast when the answers aren’t clear. A belief that God is in control even when we are not — that He provides, has a plan, and is working for our good even when nothing makes sense.

That’s uncommon faith. And when you meet someone who shares it, when what is rare in the world becomes shared at the table, something powerful happens. There’s a supernatural confidence. A spiritual alignment. Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there I am in the midst of them.” How true that is.

So today, if you’re walking a road that demands uncommon faith, here are a few verses to remind you that you’re not walking alone — and that what you have in Christ, though uncommon in the world, is shared by others who are following Him faithfully too:

Mark 5:34

This verse shows a woman who had exhausted every other option. Nothing else had worked — but she still believed Jesus could heal her.

“He said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.’”

Romans 4:20–21

Abraham’s faith in God’s promise didn’t waver — even when obedience seemed to contradict that promise.

“Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God… being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.”

Daniel 3:17–18

The faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego went beyond this world. They trusted God would deliver — but even if He didn’t, they would not bow.

“Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us… But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods.”

Hebrews 11:7

Noah had never seen rain. No one believed him. But for 120 years, he kept building. Faith isn’t always flashy — sometimes it’s just long obedience in the same direction.

“By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family.”

Remember this: what we share in Christ is sometimes foreign to the world. Our faith might look foolish. Our obedience might look risky. But we know there’s more to this life than what’s visible, and that makes sense to us.

So from time to time, sit with someone on the same path. Talk. Pray. Listen. Be reminded that you're not alone in the uncommon. What we have in common as believers is special, and it gives us energy and confidence to keep going.

-Mark

LEAN ON ME...AND YOU

Lean on Each Other’s Strengths

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.

In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to try doing things yourself. With a few clicks, you can watch a YouTube tutorial and learn how to complete nearly any task. That’s fine if time is unlimited. But for those of us with full plates and tight schedules, learning to lean on others and operate in community is not only efficient—it’s biblical.

Just today, I had the chance to help a friend lay the foundation for his new business venture. In just a couple of hours, we knocked out what might’ve taken him days to do alone. Why? Because the work was squarely in my lane of expertise. He’s done the same for me in the past—offering help in areas where I would have fumbled badly. That kind of mutual support is not just wise; it’s essential.

We weren’t made to do everything solo—especially the important things. Let’s look at some powerful biblical examples:

Bezalel and Oholiab – Skilled Craftsmen for the Tabernacle
Exodus 31:1–6; 36:1–2
God specifically chose and filled Bezalel and Oholiab with “the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, knowledge, and all kinds of skills.” Their God-given craftsmanship moved the Tabernacle project forward with excellence and speed.

We see that delegating to those with God-given skills accelerates excellence.

Solomon – Building the Temple with Expert Help
1 Kings 5–6
Solomon, though wise himself, wisely partnered with Hiram, king of Tyre, who provided expert builders and the finest materials. The Temple, a massive and beautiful structure, was completed in just seven years.

Here we see Solomon seek outside expertise to quicken and elevate God's work.

Nehemiah – Rebuilding Jerusalem’s Walls
Nehemiah 2–6
Nehemiah didn’t rebuild the wall himself. Instead, he organized a diverse group—priests, goldsmiths, merchants—and assigned each section strategically, often based on proximity to their homes. The wall was finished in just 52 days.

We see Nehemiah use strategic collaboration and morale-boosting leadership to expedite progress.

We are all made unique. We all possess different strengths. We should celebrate that truth. Not as a limitation but as a divine design. When we wisely rely on one another, we don't shrink ourselves—we elevate others. And in doing so, we move further, faster, and bring greater glory to God and His wonderfully diverse creation.

So let me ask:
Is there someone you need to call to help move a project across the finish line?
Is there someone who could use your expertise today?

Take time to reflect. Evaluate your strengths. And ask God to show you how to steward them—and share them—for His glory.

-Mark

Don't Carry Your Calling Solo

Shared Experiences – We Need Others

There are many unique callings that we find ourselves in throughout our lifetimes. Here's an example of mine from today that I hope encourages you. 

Being an entrepreneur is a unique calling.  It's a distinctive form of leadership that is hard to understand unless you've walked in it. I’ve held leadership roles at established companies, but nothing compares to the weight of owning a business. When you’re the one at the helm, the buck doesn’t just stop with you — it lives with you. The responsibility, the risk, the relationships, all yours to carry.

For those of us striving to be great business leaders, it’s not just about profit. We pour ourselves out for our teams and our customers. We want excellence for the people who count on us. That kind of care can be exhilarating. It can also be exhausting.

And that’s why we need each other.

We need people who understand the weight — not just in theory, but because they’re rowing their own boat through the same kind of water.

Today, I got a taste of that. I stopped by North Pointe Auto Group in Plain City, OH — the place I take all my cars. Been going there for years. Why? Because years ago, when I needed a quick repair on my grandpa’s old truck, I met the owner. Not only was he kind and engaging, but he was clearly grinding — doing his best to go above and beyond. You could feel the effort. It was contagious. It still is.

Today we caught up. We encouraged one another. Two men in different industries, but with the same mindset: serve people well. That’s a shared experience. And it lifted my spirit.

It reminded me of David and Jonathan in Scripture.

“The soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.”  1 Samuel 18:1

Their bond wasn’t casual. It was forged in pressure. Both were warriors. Both bore the weight of leadership. Both knew what it meant to walk in calling under fire.

Jonathan, the king’s son, saw God’s hand on David. Rather than resist it, he embraced it. He gave David his robe, sword, and armor — symbols of power and trust (1 Samuel 18:4). It was his way of saying, “I see what God is doing in you. And I’m with you.”

Later, as David fled from Saul’s wrath, Jonathan sought him out:

“Jonathan went to David at Horesh and strengthened his hand in God.”  1 Samuel 23:16

That’s what real support looks like — not someone showing up to fix everything, but someone showing up to lift your eyes back to God, and to remind you that you’re not alone.

As entrepreneurs, as leaders, as believers — we need that.
We need others in our corner, walking similar paths, carrying similar weights. When we find each other, we find strength.

So if you're in the grind, keep going. But don’t go alone.
Encourage someone today. Let someone encourage you.
We were never meant to carry this calling solo.

Always forward. Together.

-Mark

Fanning the Flame: Highlighting the Strengths of Others

Highlighting the Strengths of Others

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. As leaders, understanding the unique abilities of our team members is essential—not only to accomplish a shared mission but also to ensure that each contributor feels valued and purposeful. Though not always easy, shifting our focus toward others and intentionally highlighting their strengths fosters an environment where everyone thrives. Let's see a Biblical example:

Paul and Timothy: A Model of Encouragement

Paul’s mentorship of Timothy offers a compelling example of recognizing and nurturing potential. When Paul met Timothy in Lystra (Acts 16:1-3), he saw beyond Timothy’s youth and perceived his strong faith and leadership qualities. Taking Timothy under his guidance, Paul trained him for ministry and positioned him for success.

Aware that Timothy’s age might cause others to doubt his capabilities, Paul offered encouragement:

“Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example...” (1 Timothy 4:12).

Paul also urged Timothy to embrace his calling with confidence:

“Fan into flame the gift of God... For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:6-7)

Paul’s support extended beyond words—he entrusted Timothy with leadership responsibilities, sending him on important missions and eventually placing him over the church in Ephesus. Even in his final letter, Paul continued to exhort Timothy: “Preach the word... fulfill your ministry.” (2 Timothy 4:2, 5).

Because of Paul’s encouragement and guidance, Timothy grew into a strong and effective church leader. His youth initially made encouragement vital, but his natural strengths flourished under Paul’s mentorship.

The Power of Recognition

Just as Paul invested in Timothy, we too have people around us with untapped strengths and abilities. Some individuals are waiting for someone to recognize their potential and encourage them forward. Leaders, mentors, and colleagues have the opportunity to take notice—identifying these unique gifts and creating opportunities for them to shine.

Take a moment to reflect: Who in your circle possesses strengths that might be overlooked? How can you affirm their abilities and highlight their contributions? By being intentional in uplifting others, we not only enhance their growth but also build a culture where strengths are celebrated, and future potential is realized. Being a positive encourager today can make all the difference in someone’s journey ahead.

-Mark

Investing in Your Greatest Partnerships

The Power of True Partnerships

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.

I've been blessed with loyal partners in my business that make pursuing our mission fun. But I've also been blessed with the greatest partner of all—my wife. For those of you who are married and in the business world, you know that a real partner in the form of a spouse can make all the difference. Mine runs alongside me for our businesses and foundation efforts, reminding me of one of my favorite husband-and-wife duos from scripture: Priscilla and Aquila.

Priscilla and Aquila: A Strong Partnership in Ministry and Business

Priscilla and Aquila were a powerful husband-and-wife duo in the early church, known for their deep faith, hospitality, and commitment to spreading the gospel. Their story is mentioned multiple times in the New Testament, primarily in Acts 18, Romans 16:3-5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, and 2 Timothy 4:19.

Their Business and Ministry Beginnings (Acts 18:1-3)

Priscilla and Aquila were Jewish tentmakers living in Corinth when they met the apostle Paul. They had been forced to leave Rome after Emperor Claudius expelled all Jews around A.D. 49-50. When Paul arrived in Corinth, he partnered with them, not just in ministry but also in their tentmaking trade.

👉 Key Takeaway: They balanced business and ministry, using their work as a platform for the gospel.

Their Deep Friendship with Paul (Acts 18:18-19)

Paul became close to Priscilla and Aquila, staying with them while in Corinth. When Paul decided to travel to Ephesus, they accompanied him. In Ephesus, they helped establish a church in their home, which became a key center for Christian teaching.

👉 Key Takeaway: They were flexible and willing to relocate for the sake of the gospel, showing great trust in God’s plan.

Mentoring Apollos, a Powerful Preacher (Acts 18:24-26)

One of their most significant contributions to the early church was mentoring Apollos, an eloquent and passionate preacher who only knew about John the Baptist’s message but had not yet fully grasped Jesus’ teachings.

Priscilla and Aquila took him aside and privately explained the way of God more accurately. Rather than publicly correcting him, they demonstrated wisdom and kindness in their approach.

👉 Key Takeaway: They were humble teachers who nurtured and equipped others for ministry.

Hosting and Leading a House Church (Romans 16:3-5, 1 Corinthians 16:19)

Paul later mentioned Priscilla and Aquila in his letters, calling them his “fellow workers in Christ Jesus” and noting that they risked their lives for him (Romans 16:3-4). They also opened their home for church gatherings, playing a vital role in the Christian movement.

👉 Key Takeaway: They used their home and resources to build community and strengthen the church.

Lessons from Priscilla and Aquila’s Partnership

A Strong Marriage in Faith – They worked together seamlessly in both business and ministry.

A Heart for Discipleship – They nurtured others, including Apollos, shaping future leaders of the church.

Faithful and Flexible – They moved where God called them, whether Corinth, Ephesus, or Rome.

A Willingness to Risk Everything – They put their lives on the line for Paul and the early church.

Hospitality and Generosity – They used their home as a place of worship and teaching.

Investing in Your Greatest Partnership

If you're thinking about your greatest partnerships today and you happen to be married, look for ways to invest in your spouse. There is no one else on earth who has agreed to partner with you in a more meaningful way. Lean in—sometimes these are the relationships that can bring about some of the biggest Kingdom benefits for those you have influence on.

-Mark

Don't Be a Jack of All Trades: What Networks Are For

"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. However, our desire for specific mastery further highlights the necessity of a trusted network—one that fills the gaps where our mastery cannot.

This week alone, I have had two key conversations that resulted from trusted network introductions. Both individuals provided big insights that advanced my current missions. Without my network, I would have faced two major obstacles:

1. Time – The process of researching, vetting, scheduling, and determining the right person to talk to would have consumed a significant portion of my most valuable constraint: my hours.

2. Expertise – My network knew exactly what I needed and when I needed it. Without them, I would have bumbled through trial and error before ultimately recognizing the need to invest in specialized knowledge.

Knowledge, experience, resources, time, and the ability to vouch for others are invaluable assets. Let’s look at two biblical examples that illustrate how key connections can change lives:

1. Naaman and the Servant Girl (2 Kings 5)

Naaman, a powerful commander in the Aramean army, suffered from leprosy. A young Israelite servant girl introduced him to the prophet Elisha, leading to his healing after washing in the Jordan seven times. This small, seemingly insignificant connection had life-changing results.

2. Barnabas Introducing Paul (Acts 9:26-28)

After Paul’s dramatic conversion, his reputation as a former persecutor of Christians caused fear among the disciples. His past would have blocked him from joining the inner circle spreading the love of Jesus throughout the world. Barnabas took the risk of introducing Paul to the apostles, vouching for his transformation. This endorsement allowed Paul to step into his calling as a major leader in the early church.

If you already have a strong network, take this as a reminder to be a resource for others. Christ’s light can shine through you when you help illuminate a blind spot for a trusted friend. If you are not yet well-networked, take steps today to connect with groups and individuals who align with your mission and values. There are business, faith, and hobby groups in every city in our nation. Just get started and see who the Holy Spirit places in your path.

-Mark

Divine "Appointments" | Introductions that aren't coincidence

Divine Appointments | When you've prayed and the Holy Spirit Responds.

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.

Today, I received a voicemail from someone interested in transitioning to our company. He found us through a financial services directory, hit our CRM phone number, and eventually visited our website. Our conversation revealed striking commonalities—backgrounds, business aspirations, hobbies, even our reading interests. The timing was perfect, and we are likely to lock arms as partners very soon.

This led me to reflect on biblical examples of divine appointments, such as Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-40).

Philip, a disciple spreading the gospel, was directed by an angel: "Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." (Acts 8:26) He obeyed without knowing why.

On that road, he met an Ethiopian eunuch, a high official returning from worship in Jerusalem. As the eunuch read from Isaiah, the Holy Spirit prompted Philip to approach his chariot. Hearing the scripture, Philip asked, "Do you understand what you are reading?" The eunuch replied, "How can I, unless someone explains it to me?" He invited Philip to join him.

Philip shared the gospel, explaining Jesus as the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. Moved, the eunuch asked to be baptized when they came across water. Philip baptized him, and immediately afterward, the Spirit transported Philip elsewhere to continue preaching. The eunuch went on his way rejoicing.

Reader, if you seek guidance or connection in a way that you cannot yet see for yourself, pray. Ask God to direct your path and bring the right people into your life. Divine appointments happen—be open when the Holy Spirit responds!

-Mark

The Power of Mentorship: A Biblical Perspective

The Power of Mentorship: A Biblical Perspective

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.

Life’s challenges require a strong support system, and surrounding ourselves with people who genuinely want the best for us is vital. This week, I have been blessed to receive wisdom from mentors with far greater experience than I. At the same time, I’ve had the opportunity to pour into others, providing guidance and asking the right questions when needed. Here’s what I’ve learned about the importance of mentorship:

1. A Real Mentor is Invaluable.
   A great mentor helps you avoid mistakes, recognize opportunities, and reach solutions faster than you could alone. Their ability to view your world objectively is invaluable, offering insight that may not be apparent from your perspective. A great biblical example of this is Moses and Joshua. Moses mentored Joshua, preparing him to lead Israel into the Promised Land. Through his guidance, Joshua learned the importance of faith, courage, and obedience to God (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).

2. A Real Mentor Challenges You.
   The strongest mentor relationships are built on both grace and truth. As one of my mentors once said, “I hope to build a bridge of grace so strong that it will hold the weight of truth.” A great mentor relationship allows for open, honest conversations without fear. The truth can be evaluated and applied in a way that fosters growth, rather than causing offense. Seek a mentor who will guide you with both honesty and compassion. Paul and Timothy exemplify this in the Bible. Paul not only instructed Timothy in spiritual matters but also challenged him to be bold in his faith, teaching him how to lead with wisdom and perseverance (2 Timothy 1:6-7).

3. A Real Mentor Connects You.
   The best mentors acknowledge they don’t have all the answers. Instead, they ask insightful questions and connect you with the right people who can help. A mentor helps bridge knowledge gaps and provides connections that can shape your journey.

Mentorship is a two-way street. As we grow, we should seek the wisdom of those ahead of us while also offering guidance to those following a similar path. These relationships are some of the most fulfilling in life.

If you feel disconnected or lack a mentor, consider joining a local networking group. Look for opportunities where your expertise is needed or seek out groups that align with your interests. The Lord is always faithful, and if you are willing, He will provide opportunities for you to both receive and give wisdom.

-Mark

Results Move at the Speed of Relationships

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.

The Power of Face-to-Face Interaction

Studies show that nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language, constitutes a staggering 70-93% of all communication. That's a crazy high percentage. When we meet someone in person, we can pick up on these subtle cues, which are often lost in phone calls, emails, or video chats. According to a 2020 study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, face-to-face interactions lead to higher levels of trust and empathy compared to virtual communication.

Additionally, research by Harvard Business Review found that teams who meet in person are 34 times more likely to achieve their goals compared to those who rely solely on electronic communication. This is because face-to-face meetings foster collaboration, creativity, and a sense of accountability that is difficult to replicate through a screen.

Going Deeper, Faster

Another critical advantage of in-person communication is the speed at which relationships deepen. A 2018 study by the American Psychological Association revealed that people who meet in person are more likely to share personal information and develop a sense of closeness in significantly less time than those who communicate primarily through text or video calls. The physical presence of another person creates a sense of connection and trust that simply cannot be replicated in a digital format.

Well then...why are we still texting?

Despite the benefits of being face to face, our reliance on texting and virtual communication is at an all-time high. According to a report by Statista, the average American sends over 40 text messages per day and spends more than three hours daily on their smartphone. Furthermore, a 2023 survey by Pew Research Center revealed that nearly 60% of adults prefer texting over meeting in person or making a phone call.

While these tools offer convenience and immediacy, they often come at the cost of meaningful connection. 

A Biblical Perspective on Meeting Together

From a Christian perspective, the importance of gathering in person is deeply rooted in Scripture. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This verse underscores the value of physical presence in fostering encouragement, accountability, and mutual growth.

As Christians, we are called to be in community, sharing life and faith with one another. While technology can supplement our connections, it should never replace the richness of gathering in person.

Results Move at the Speed of Relationships

In the business world, there is a well-known adage: "Results move at the speed of relationships." Strong relationships are the foundation of trust, collaboration, and long-term success. Meeting face-to-face may require more effort, time, and planning, but the payoff is undeniable. Whether it's closing a deal, strengthening a partnership, or resolving a conflict, the best outcomes often come from sitting across the table and truly connecting with another person.

So, the next time you’re tempted to send a text or schedule another Zoom call, consider taking the extra step to meet up and share a quick bite.  After all, true connection—and the results that come with it—are worth the effort.

-Mark