Together - Daily DevotionalSample

Overcoming through Relationships

Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Key Verse: “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” verse 12

God has designed human beings as social and gregarious. We live and function best in community and tactile relationships. These are not “friends” we never meet on social media but genuine intimate friends that can literally help us up when we fall down.

Even though Paul was a great apostle with amazing revelations, he could still be refreshed by “ordinary” Christians including his own pupils (1 Cor.16:18, 2 Tim.1:16). Some people are extroverts and have many friends but it is incumbent on us all to build meaningful and supportive relationships. Jesus himself chose disciples to be with Him. They were not just his servants or fellow workers but His friends (John 15:15). In fact He specifically chose Peter, James and John as even closer intimate companions to share moments of pleasure as when He was transfigured (Matt.17:1-2); but also to share moments of pain and support Him when He was in anguish as in Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-34).

Paul explained in 2 Cor.8:13-14 that friends can help others overcome temporary poverty by supporting each other financially. The same principle applies when we join with others to carry their crushing burdens such as bereavement, redundancy and sickness (Gal.6:2). We can overcome troublesome pressures through our relationships.

Prayer: Father thank You that You have placed me in a family of brothers and sisters. May I be a good and supportive friend to them