Read Ecclesiastes 1 – 4
Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken (Ecc. 4:9-12).
Some people feel they are better off alone in life. They will tell you they work best by themselves. They might even say that others just slow them down or hold them back, but this is not how God intended us to live. There is a phrase that says “no man is an island”. That is not just a good saying, it is also an illustration of God's will that we work together as believers in all facets of life.
What are the benefits to cooperation in the kingdom of God? These Scriptures point out a few. If we will follow the directions from the Word of God, our lives will benefit from them.
The first advantage is that two can accomplish more than one. There is also the fact that if one falls another can help him up. You can offer comfort to each other. Finally, it is pointed out that where alone one might be overcome by an enemy, two or more working together might prevail.
It was said before that God doesn't want us to be alone. It was mentioned this includes all facets of life. God intends for us to form relationships, such as marriage. No, God does not intend for everyone to be married. There are some that may not be destined to become wed. This could be because of ministry or a number of other reasons. The Bible does put its approval on marriage as an institution of value. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh (Gen. 2:24).
Scripture gives advice on how we should conduct ourselves when we are involved in friendships and partnerships. Since the Bible gives us instructions on these matters, it should be concluded that God sees us in these relationships even in ministry. From Elijah and Elisha to Paul and Silas, God has been using great men and women working together all throughout history. The Lord Jesus Christ even paired the disciples off for service. And He called unto Him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits (Mark 6:7).
The Lord intends for us to have relationships. God wants us to interact with other believers. Through these interactions, we bring more strength, fellowship and love into our lives and the lives of others. This is not just about going to church, though that is important. It is about being a part of the body of Christ.
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching (Heb. 10:25).
Thought for Today:
Beware of letting earthly "things" take the place of setting our minds on things above.
Christ Revealed:
As God, the true Source of wisdom, and knowledge, and joy – the One who truly satisfies (Eccl. 2:26). We have the mind of Christ which is wisdom, knowledge, and joy (I Cor. 2:16; see also Luke 21:15; John 15:11; Rom. 15:14).
Word Studies:
1:13 sore travail, grievous task; 1:17 madness and folly, the ways of the foolish; vexation of spirit, very unsatisfying; grasping after the wind; 2:21 in equity, with skill; portion, inheritance.
Prayer Suggestion: Pray that God will keep you from speaking evil (Ps. 34:13).
Optional Reading: Hebrews 5
Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 6:10