Commentary by Rev. Michael VandenBerg

Most of what we do has success tied to how well we network with others. Few things in life, whether personal or professional, are solitary in nature.

If you want a good job, the old adage is that it is not what you know, but who you know, that counts. While that is not entirely true, it sure is the path most used. If you want to get into a good college, it is who you have worked, studied with shared with that deans look at. If you want to know the best restaurant in town, you ask around with the people you trust. If you want the best mechanic, plumber, realtor or doctor, you ask the people you trust for their opinion.

This has given rise to services such as Angie’s List, Home Advisor, Consumers Reports, etc., to help us make the best decisions with trusted networks. But networking is not new. In the Bible, we see Jesus surround himself with a network of people called disciples (students) whom he walked with, worked with and confided in.

Even before that, King David of Israel surrounded himself with people he could trust to help him make big decisions. People such as Nathan, Joab and Jonathan made the king’s life and decisions wiser.

Even earlier, God created a helpmate for the first person, Adam, when he created woman as his friend, companion, helper and advisor.

Often, the journey we take through life is greatly influenced by the traveling companions we keep. If you want to be successful, find those who will help keep you on track. Be willing to pour yourself into the lives of others and look to have them pour their lives into yours. A shared life is forever and always the most rewarding.

The way you get to where you want to go is to find people that can network with you so you can stay on track, have clarity of vision and be accountable to those who have your best interest in mind.

Maybe this is a husband or wife, a mentor or teacher, colleagues or employers, pastors or counselors, but be sure they are leading and advising you in ways that will bring out your very best.

At times we need our network for support, advice and correction. Be open to all aspects of these trusted confidants.

In the end, the best traveling companion and confidant you can have is God himself. As King Solomon said in his Proverbs, Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do everywhere you go. He’s the one who will keep you on track.

Don’t assume that you know it all — run to God! Run from evil! Your body will glow with health and your very bones will vibrate with life!