Connected and interdependent

Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 In Chapter 4 of Ecclesiastes, Solomon gave a sharp reflection into the affairs of people that become self-centered and selfish. Their hearts were filled with greed and material wealth becomes their god. As Solomon reflected on their plight, they could succeed in their pursuit and even become the envy of others yet could feel the emptiness despite their achievements. Then he said the reason why such pursuit leads to emptiness. “This is the case of a man who is all alone…works hard to gain as much wealth as he can. But then he asks himself, “Who am I working for? Why am I giving up so much pleasure now?” Then, he concluded, “It is all so meaningless and depressing” (v. 8). God made it clear after He created man that it is not good for His people to be alone (Genesis 2:18). God designed us not to live just for ourselves. This was what Solomon realized in his life. The Bible provided us examples of God’s people as a community that accomplishes more together than separately. God does not want us to be isolated seeking to achieve our own goals. Rather, He wanted us to work with others for “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” This is why God founded the Church; called upon together to take part in expanding His kingdom. They were given His Holy Spirit to empower them as a community of believers telling others about the good news of salvation. “You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9). During difficult times it is critical that we are walking in fellowship with other Christians. Challenging and difficult times can be overwhelming to face alone. But praise God that He is there to sustain us and a community of believers that we can identify with and their victories over trials could encourage us to not give up. “He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us” (2 Corinthians 1:4). Our expression of interdependence could provide a strong witness to the power of Christ working in His body. Find ways where you can connect with others who are seeking God’s will. Ask God to help you so you could be a source of support and encouragement that those around you need. “Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”

Blessings,

Noel De Guzman

www.my-wbc.com