Good morning,
Grace and peace be unto you!
The Value of a Friend according to Ecclesiastes 4
9 Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor.
10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up.
11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
Friends. How many of us have them? Friends. Ones we can depend on. Yes, I'm sure you remember that old Whodini song. Man, but this song is so true and this verse really bids us to take a look at friendship.
These verses are often used in marriage ceremonies to talk about the friendship that is required in a good marriage. Before a marriage can be strong, the two must be friends. The verse tells us that it is better for the two to be together because they have a greater reward. When the two of you work together and build together your efforts are multiplied. The power of a friend. Multiplication is better than addition every day.
It goes on to say that if you fall there is someone to pick you up. I would go further and say after they pick you up they dust you off and encourage you to try again. I would not have the degrees I have right now without my husband's encouragement. He would not be where he is in business without mine.
Then it says if two lie down they are warmed by each other. I hate when my husband is gone on trips without me. After being married for 28 years you kind of get used to having someone's legs to prop your feet on. Lol It is not just physical warmth that is received by the comfort of companionship and that person that knows you better than anyone else. The person that knows your secrets yet doesn't use them to hurt you. The comfort and warmth of being together and sharing your day. The friendship with that person designed just for you.
Finally, it talks about that threefold cord. You, your best friend and Jesus. See, when your marriage is just you three there is NOTHING it cannot withstand. Anytime you and your spouse put God first in your relationship and kick others out, you will have staying power. Yes, you will want to seek outside advice but seek God and then professional counseling if more assistance is needed. Your single girlfriends are single for a reason. The more you keep people out of your business the better off you are. Don't get me wrong, I am not telling you not to have friends outside of your spouse but when you are with them your marriage should be off limits. Don't give room to the devil or Becky with the good hair. Marriage can be one of the best times of your life when you do with your friend.
Until tomorrow
#liveBlessed
