NOV 21

Ecclesiastes 4:8-12
Memorise Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
“…woe to him that is alone when he falleth"

Solomon says in Ecclesiastes, “Woe to him that is alone” and that is particularly true for a Christian. However, some Christians may prefer not to fellowship. Perhaps they prefer to be alone or because of pride, feel that they do not need any help from other believers. They may not see the importance of fellowship and therefore, fail to see the need to fellowship with other Christians. 

Solomon writes of how important it is to have a companion or friend beside you. He says that “two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour”. This “labour” is service to each other, doing good deeds toward each other and showing concern for each other. It is definitely “more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35) and they are rewarded with the joy of helping another and the gratitude of their friend who will likewise return the kindness. In contrast, someone who is alone does not have anyone to show concern for and does not benefit from giving and serving. 

Solomon goes on to explain that two people can help each other when one of them is weak. If one of them falls, the other will “lift up his fellow”. Solomon also speaks of companionship in verse 11 and how two people can keep each other warm. Two are also stronger than one when withstanding any enemies.

The narrow way is a difficult path to tread and God does not mean for us to travel it alone. If we have companions as we walk the narrow way, we can help lift one another up if we fall. For example, if a Christian falls into sin, his Christian friends can rebuke him with God’s Word and pray for him, bringing him to repentance and back to God. Christians also keep one another “warm” with love and concern for one another. If an enemy attacks, whether it is from Satan or false teachers, Christians can support one another through God’s Word and prayer to withstand the attacks. Imagine if the believer is alone. No matter how strong he may be, he will fall and be overcome more easily than if he had the support of fellow believers. 

Thought: Can you think of any experiences you have which affirm Solomon’s statement that “two are better than one”? 
Prayer: Lord, help me to be a good companion to my Christian friends.