4 Signs You've Waited Too Long to Network


Wayne Morgan - April 12, 2023
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It seems that the standard protocol for most youth workers is to explode into ministry without a thought toward networking. A select few get coached or mentored; others have college friends off whom we bounce ideas, but those life-giving relationships can't replace a vibrant local network.

How do you know if you have waited too long before pursuing local connections?

You're Burned Out 

You won't admit to burnout, but you may have gotten to the point where you don't care about anything except your next vacation. Carrying each other's burdens isn't only for those in the congregation. Leaders carry loads of stress that few can understand. Disciplined time to gather and pray with other leaders refocuses our hearts on the power of God. Paul takes time to encourage the church in Galatians 6:2 - check it out.

You're Increasingly Lonely 

In 1 Kings 19, Elijah escaped to the wilderness and told God that he was "the only one." But he wasn't. God told Elijah that there were 7,000 others! Leaders need to be aware of the toxic results of busyness, arrogance, and insecurity. Increasing busyness can suffocate developing relationships. Arrogance places you above others. Insecurity inhibits your ability to connect with others in your community. We all struggle in some area of social disability. If we are not careful, our disability will isolate us into believing that we are the ONLY ONE...or that nobody cares. It isn't true; God has not put you in your community alone.

You have no Plan for Tragedy 

Many people in your community expect that "the religious community" will have a plan for tragedy. Most agencies are required to have a plan in place in case of disaster. Does your community have a plan? Are you part of it? What happens after a suicide, car accident, terrorist attacks, or natural disaster? Please don't make the assumption that "someone else" will do this.

One pastor in my area claims, "Our mainline churches aren't networked right now, but I'm confident that the evangelical churches are." The sobering reality is that my community is a fractured mess of ministry relationships. We can't let our neighbors be left without the greatest asset when our community needs us most. Start coming together now. The Network has a simple strategic resource to help think through creating those formative connections.

You are Dead. 

Seriously, this is the ONLY sign that you've waited too long! No matter what your experience has been, your community needs you! We live in a country where we are privileged to be part of dynamic neighborhoods. Start making networking a priority!

Not sure how to start connecting your community? Here are three simple ways:

  • Call another pastor, youth pastor or para-church leader for coffee. Find out how you can help each other.
  • Use our online networking training. Through THIRTY years of networking experience, we've found there are Four Priorities present in a healthy ministry network. We want to give you some practical steps to implement them... and it's FREE!
  • Connect with our Network Conversations each month to find ways to network... even if you are a beginner!
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