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Two Are Better Than One
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
As I sit here writing this article, my house has been invaded by a group of eight homeschoolers who were displaced when the power went out at the church building from damage in yesterday’s windstorm. Sitting here watching them work and listening to their joyous interactions, I’m reminded of the value of having Christian family to share life with.
These kids are all members of the same youth group and decided, of their own volition, to have one day a week where they could come together during their school hours and work. The biggest motivation is that they crave a higher level of interaction than single schooling can give them. In addition to simply having a good time together, though, I have witnessed them helping one another through chemistry problems and geography questions, sharing their various knowledge and experiences to bring others along.
Scripture often speaks of the value of being with other godly people. Solomon reminds us that “two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil.” The New Testament encourages us to “stir one another up to love and good works” (Heb. 10:24). Contextually, and typically, we think about these passages in terms of encouraging one another to hold the line of faithfulness, coming out of sinful activity, or being comforted in times of grief. The beauty of God’s word, though, is that it has application well beyond just worship and Bible class. Christians have the opportunity, ability, and responsibility to help each other live life in all areas! We support each other in business. We help one another in school. We cheer on each other in extracurricular activities. We share each other’s homes and tables.
The Lord created us to be social creatures. Indeed, there are times when solitude is welcomed and necessary, but not for the whole of life. We need one another to experience the fullest elements of fellowship, belonging, and support found in the body of Christ.
This week, I challenge you to be proactive at finding ways to integrate your life with those in the church outside of worship and class. Scan the directory and find someone who often sits on the fringes of the family, or you don’t know very well. Being a part of their “weekly” life and not just their “weekend” is a great way for you to stir them to good works. Maybe you can be the “two” that makes their “one” better in some venture. Build that bond to strengthen their life, and yours, as we walk with God together.
