Newsletter

Post 66: Embracing New Connections for Growth and Service as a Manifestation of Christ

Kent E. Nielsen

09 May 2025 — 4 min read

Discover the power of new connections in Christ for personal growth and service. Learn to embrace your roots, gather in unity, and lift others as you stand on higher ground.

Embracing New Connections for Growth and Service as a Manifestation of Christ

A recent connection on LinkedIn and the wisdom found in Napoleon Hill’s book, “The Hand of Destiny,” sparked a profound realization for me. The idea that resonated most was the importance of closing the door on the past and embracing new connections to foster personal growth and be a manifestation of Christ.

Leaving the Past Behind

In the final pages of “The Hand of Destiny,” Hill presents a powerful concept: “Close behind you all doors that lead to thoughts of the unpleasant circumstances of your past life; close them so tightly that they can never again be opened. Then look ahead of you and observe that many doors of greater opportunity will have been opened to you.” This idea has been liberating, reinforcing the notion that it’s time to move forward with new connections and opportunities.

Christ’s Presence in Our Connections

As I reflected on this message, I was reminded of the profound truth that where two or three are gathered together in Christ’s name, there will He be in the midst of them (D&C 6:32). As true disciples of Christ, we are strengthened in Him and each other when we work in tandem, edifying one another and rejoicing together. This revelation adds even greater significance to the connections we make and the growth we experience together.

Growing Through Service and Association

God’s work and glory is to bring about our immortality and eternal life (Moses 1:39), which is achieved through our personal growth and development. As we strive to be like our Heavenly Father, we come to understand that our own growth is inherently tied to the growth of others. In the words of King Benjamin, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17). By connecting with like-minded individuals who are also striving to improve themselves and make a positive impact, we create an environment where we can be filled with more light, truth, and intelligence, which is the glory of God. Together, we can take quantum leaps in our faith and service, knowing that He is guiding and empowering us along the way.

The Power of Unity and Love

The Doctrine and Covenants further emphasizes the significance of gathering together in unity and love. In D&C 49:27, we read, “Behold, I will go before you and be your rearward; and I will be in your midst, and you shall not be confounded.”

This verse reminds us that as we gather together in Christ’s name, He will be with us, leading us forward and protecting us from behind. His presence in our midst will ensure that we are not confounded or led astray.

Connecting with the Present

Another critical lesson I’ve learned is the value of connecting with people who are currently living, moving, and shaking things up for the Kingdom. While primary source books written by our heroes can be inspiring, it’s equally important to engage with individuals who are actively making a difference in the present, with Christ at the center. As we associate with others who are growing, we stand on higher ground to better serve those within our previous and new circles of influence, akin to joint venture marketing.

Embracing the Journey Ahead

As I move forward on this journey of personal growth and service, I am committed to embracing new connections in Christ’s presence while honoring my roots. This commitment has already begun to manifest in my life, as I have recently accepted a new job that I believe will provide opportunities for growth and service. By growing and surrounding myself with others who are also dedicated to personal development, I will be better equipped to lift those from my past to higher ground.

It’s important to note that moving forward doesn’t mean closing the door on the people from our past. Rather, it’s about avoiding the mentality of the crab who fell for the bait in the basket, an analogy I learned from Darren Hardy’s Roller Coaster Fastpass program. If we fall back to the standards that once held us back, we won’t be able to escape the basket. Instead, we must focus on our own growth and, with the help of new friends and connections, dedicate ourselves to serving and lifting others still in the basket.

I encourage you to do the same - seek out individuals dedicated to self-improvement in the yoke of Christ and nurture those relationships. As you grow and stand on higher ground, you’ll be better positioned to make a positive impact on those from your past and present.

Together, with Christ in our midst, we can create a ripple effect of growth and service, lifting each other up and opening new doors of opportunity for the glory of God. In so doing, we are one step closer to building Zion, a place where the people dwell in righteousness, are of one heart and mind, and have no poor among them.