Working Together

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.“

God designed us for community. He designed us for relationships. Way back in Genesis, we are told that it “was not good for man to be alone.” That’s when God decided to make a helpmate for Adam: Eve. This passage is often used in wedding ceremonies, but I think it can apply to all types of relationships. It’s obvious that if we’re all alone, we’re going to run into circumstances that will challenge us and possibly overwhelm us. We could be injured or sick, and who would care for us? We could struggle to provide food, shelter, and warmth for ourselves. We may be easily overpowered, but with a friend by our side, they can offer support.

If you’re married, you know the joy of having someone on your side. Someone who works with you to overcome the obstacle life throws in your path. Even if you’re still single, you know the joy of having friendships and other godly relationships. You might have close friends who chip in when you need a hand or check on you from time to time. You may have prayer partners that lift you up to the Lord when you need it. The Lord wants us to have support in our lives. The more support the better.

Of course, the “third” strand in any relationship should be God. When God is in the picture, good things happen. God holds each person accountable for their part of the relationship. If each member of the relationship also has a relationship with God, then there’s a good likelihood that they will forgive offenses, work to reconcile differences, and show love when it’s needed. No one is perfect, but with God in the mix, you have a far better chance of building healthy, strong relationships than when you leave Him out of the picture altogether.

Father, I thank you that you made me for relationship. First and foremost, you designed me to have a relationship with you. You love me, and you want to be my close, intimate friend and my loving Heavenly Father. You also designed me for relationship with others. I thank you for all the godly men and women you have placed in my life as friends, neighbors, coworkers, prayer partners, and mentors. I know that one or more of these people will help me in difficult times and surround me in love and prayer when I need it. They are a blessing in my life! Father, help me to honor you in all my relationships. Give me wisdom to choose godly friends and associates and a godly spouse if necessary. I know with you at the center of each relationship, I will have strong, healthy relationships throughout my life. Thank you, Father, that even if another person lets me down, you will never leave me or forsake me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.