The ‘How To’ of Relationship Connections

I ate up every word as we sat across from each other.

She already had her breakfast and was just waiting for her daughter to pick her up. But she chose to sit with me in the meantime.

She must’ve noticed my wide-eyed wonder as I hung on her every word.  And I think she was a little amused. Probably tickled pink, in fact.

It mattered very little that my food was getting cold. I was trying to soak up as much as I could before she left.

We’d literally spent the past day into the night together. First, sitting beside each other during the full-day retreat. And then again in the evening when our group went out to celebrate and experience some of the local culture.

But it wasn’t until this moment that we truly connected.

If it’s one thing I’ve come to realise is that connections don’t just happen. I mean, sure we encounter people all the time but how often do we actually connect?

You know, those connections that move you beyond colleagues across the table to connecting on a deeper level. That fleeting opportunity where you’re afforded a window into the soul.

So, what was it that made this encounter different from the others we had before?

Clearly, she was several steps ahead of me in her career and there was much to learn from her. But it wasn’t her business savvy that drew me in.

And yes, she was passionate about the topic at hand and obviously knew her stuff. But it wasn’t her charisma or credentials — though those were both impressive.

What was different that paved the way for a relationship connection?

And how do we connect with others beyond fleeting encounters?

Here are three things that I learned from this early morning encounter that set the stage for a connection beyond the surface.

 

1. Welcome the God-given moment

Too often, we’re too busy pursuing our own agendas to notice a God-ordained moment. Rather than rush ahead to the next thing on her list, my colleague paused long enough to be used by God.

2. Remain present

In our technology-driven world I’ve had many encounters where the person next to me might as well have been miles away. We spend too much time checking in on our phones and checking out from the real world. By turning that around we are able to remain present in the moment and give fully to the person in front of us.

 

3. Speak life

Seeing the opportunity for what it was, my colleague stepped into the moment and used it to speak life into me.

Sometimes all it takes is a positive and encouraging word, or a willingness to share your life, one snippet at a time.

God created us as relational beings and we need each other. And more than just on a surface level.

The question is, how are you showing up, my friend?

Are you too busy to notice the women you encounter every day?

You don’t need to have a special ability or a gift for mentoring to show up powerfully in another woman’s life.  God just wants your willingness.

God wants you to be willing to:

• welcome the God-given moment;
• remain present; and
• speak life.

Show up willing and let God do the rest. You never know what meaningful relationship connections He’s setting up at this very moment.

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. – Hebrews 13:2 NKJV

 

Wishing you blessings, 

P.S. This post is part of the #SparkleCircle series hosted by my sisters, Carlie, Andi and me. Through these monthly posts, we hope to inspire friendship and community among women whose aim is to shine for Christ. Because doing life together makes it so much sweeter!

Catch all the other #SparkleCircle posts here!

 

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And if you’re looking for more encouraging and inspiring content, check out these amazing sites where I link up my weekly posts.

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 Are you seeking deeper friendships?

Then take a look at the book, Help I Need Some Friends (affiliate link) written by two of my friends Alison Tiemeyer and Melanie Redd.

There you will find ideas for connecting on a deeper level. I pray it will bless you.