References
When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers and sisters encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed. Acts 18:27 (NIV)
When I reflect on my career, I see clearly that much of what I have been able to achieve came through God’s blessings and through people He allowed me to meet along the way. Several people have referred me to career opportunities and helped open doors I may not have reached on my own. In corporate America, it's often true that you have a much greater chance of landing a job through an internal referral than any other method.
Professional relationships and referrals can help people learn about opportunities and help employers understand a candidate through someone whose judgment they trust. Platforms such as LinkedIn have made networking easier, but the more important principle is the reputation and trust we build through how we work and treat people.
We can see this example in Acts 18:27, through Apollos. He wanted to go to Achaia, and the believers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. When he arrived, he became a great help to the believers. That recommendation did not create his gifts, but it helped connect him with a community that was prepared to receive him.
A few verses earlier, Acts 18:24-26 describes Apollos as a learned man with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures. Priscilla and Aquila heard him speak and explained the way of God to him more adequately. He was knowledgeable and gifted, yet still willing to learn.
We should remain open to growth through mentorship and also be willing to help others grow. God can use teachers, coworkers, friends, leaders, and fellow believers to shape us and connect us with opportunities to serve. In turn, our integrity and willingness to encourage others can become part of someone else’s journey.