September 24 – 2 are better than 1

Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up. Also, if two lie down together, they can keep warm; but how can one person alone keep warm? And if someone overpowers one person, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.   (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12  HCSB)

40% of children in the US are born to unmarried, single women, and we wonder why children are getting more rebellious and less responsible, and why this country is falling to pieces.  Raising children is hard enough when both parents are present, but raising them as a single parent is a whole different ball game.  God never intended children to be raised by one parent, He knew that two would be better than one.  He knew that circumstances would force some people to raise children alone, but He never meant for single-parenthood to become as accepted as it is and even fashionable.

This promise reminds us about the importance of marriage, and even of close friendships — something that men have a hard time with.  Two people who are committed to each other hold each other accountable, help each other up when one falls down, and like today’s verse says, have a good reward for their efforts.  Many times we see that two people working as a team accomplish much more than if they were working separately.  Their results are not just double that of a single person, but multiplied many times over.

All of us need to take this powerful promise to heart, whether it is in marriage or friendship.  And like the last phrase implies, when a marriage or friendship also includes God, that cord of three strands cannot easily be broken.

No matter what your situation is, do something about this, this week!  Choose to confide in your spouse about something you need help with.  Swallow your pride and get over your fears, and get the help that you need.  If you’re not married, do it with a trusted friend of the same sex (important detail), and if you are a man, rebuke the tendency to always be a do-it-yourselfer.  Yes that’s manly trait, but only some times.  Certain situations demand that we get help from someone else.