Two Are Better Than One

Two Are Better Than One

Most people don’t like to be alone. It’s been that way from the beginning of time. When God made Adam, he paused before creating Eve to say, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). Our relationships with others are a big part of who we are.

King Solomon understood the value of friends. As he wrote the book of Ecclesiastes, he explored the meaning of friends, among other things. What he found over and over again is that life can feel meaningless when we live for ourselves. Whatever the gain, whatever the pleasure, when we live for ourselves, life feels empty. But in chapter four, Solomon shifts to the special advantages of friendship.

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed,” he begins in verse 9. He then notes that a companion provides strength in work, in survival, and in defense. A friend can give us the strength to battle sin. When we’re alone, the temptation of sin can overwhelm us. We’re more likely to stumble. But when we share our struggles, a friend can lend support. She can help us realize we are not alone and give us a hand if we fall (see Ecclesiastes 4:10).

Perhaps you have a friend who deserves more appreciation. Perhaps you long for a friend unlike any you’ve ever had. Or maybe you miss a friend who has not been near for some time. Companionship can also be an important part of our families. Don’t miss the chance to build relationships with siblings, cousins, and other family members. God cares about relationships, and he wants us to rely on good friends along life’s journey.

Daddy-Daughter Time

A good friend can make a big difference in life. You can find friends in unexpected places. Make plans to watch the movie Because of Winn-Dixie together. How did the main character make friends, and what were the benefits? Look for more discussion topics for this movie in the Father-Daughter Movie Nights appendix at the back of the book.

If you haven’t had a close friendship for a long time, understand that this is a common desire. Commit to pray together that God will provide a godly friend.

Talk with your dad about some friendships that have meant the most to him. Maybe he needs a good friend too. If so, pray for that, too.

What’s The Word?

If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.   Ecclesiastes 4:10