Two Are Better Than One

Note from today’s Bible reading: Ecclesiastes 4-12

The wise man wrote, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up. Furthermore, if two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone? And if one can overpower him who is alone, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not quickly torn apart” (Ecclesiastes 4:9).

These verses are often applied to marriage. While an application can be made there, it is not limited to the marriage relationship.

God created us to be social creatures. Relationships are valuable for our emotional and mental well-being. Yet these verses speak of the practical benefits we receive from others – more or better work can be done, assistance can be offered, and threats can be avoided or withstood. If we cut ourselves off from others because we think we do not need anyone else, we miss out on these benefits.

So remember that two are better than one. God created us and knows our abilities and limitations. Rather than thinking we can go it alone, we need to surround ourselves with those who can support, assist, and encourage us, just as we can do for them.