Who's In Your Orbit? #390

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Who's In Your Orbit? #390

I recently listened to a podcast, and as the host was introducing his guest, he said something that got me thinking. In fact, I had to listen to the episode again just to catch the 'meat' of the conversation. But even then, one phrase kept spinning over and over in my head. Andy Andrews described his guest, Mark Faulkner, as being 'in his orbit.

I’ve never heard “being in someone’s orbit” before. But according to Andy, every one of us carries an orbit around as we travel through life with people coming, staying, and leaving. So today, I want to talk about your orbit and who’s in it.

So, have you ever stopped to think about the people who are in your orbit? Not just physically, but emotionally, spiritually, and relationally. They’re the people whom you naturally call when life gets stressful, and who naturally call you because they sense something isn't right. Those people don't just show up and stay for no reason. They're the people God has placed in your life, and the people you've allowed close enough to matter. For good reason.

I’m sure we've all heard Jim Rohn's statement that you are who you surround yourself with. While I believe that's true, I think an orbit is even more personal than that. To me, the people in your orbit are those who are close enough to influence your life, and you've become close enough to influence theirs. Influence flows in both directions. We receive it, and we give it.

Having people in your orbit isn't a new concept. King David had his mighty men, but three were closer to him than the others. Jesus had twelve disciples, yet Peter, James, and John climbed the mountain and experienced moments the others did not. So not everyone occupies the same place in a person's orbit, and that’s okay. Some simply pass by while others remain close for years, becoming part of our journey, our victories, our struggles, and our growth. Maybe one of God's greatest gifts isn't what He gives us, but who He gives us.

That got me thinking about how one chapter of my professional life is ending, and I've found myself thinking about my own orbit. Thinking about the people who have walked closely with me for many years, who won't be part of my daily interactions any longer. That’s bittersweet, and I will miss being close to them regularly. Others will move farther away as God opens new doors, introducing me to new people. This has caused me to reflect on my own orbit. Maybe it's worth reflecting on yours, too.

So, this week, simply become aware of your orbit. Notice the people God has already placed close to you. Think about those who encourage you, challenge you, pray for you, celebrate with you, and quietly walk beside you through every season. Thank God for them. Value them. Don't take them for granted any longer.

Before the end of the day, ask yourself one final question. If someone asked me to identify the people who have had the greatest spiritual, personal, and/or leadership influence on my life, could I name them? If you can, thank them for being in your orbit. Then thank God for placing them there.

If you want to live a legacy that people look towards, then visit lighthouselegacies.com to learn how. Also, check out the Living Your Legacy Podcast.