Today's Scripture
Accepting Help – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 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.
Stephanie's Devotion
What the passage says
V. 9-10. We may want to work alone, but having a partner (utilizing each other’s gifts and strength) is often the key to success. The partnership is supportive and protective, shielding from harm.
V. 11 Being together is comforting
V. 12 Self-defense is difficult. Defense is enhanced by joining with others.
What does the passage say to me/us?
“United, we stand. Divided, we fall.” Working in God’s family is hard work. Spreading the Good News about Christ is challenging. Mormons and Jehovah’s Witness evangelists understand the essential biblical calling to be sent two by two. Evangelism is discouraging work. The message of Christ is often rejected. We need encouraging support to persevere. Working together keeps us accountable to the task. We learn from each other as well. John Wesley impressed upon his followers the need to meet regularly, to live as an intentional “Christ-like community.”
Personally, I am so grateful for the 33 ½ years I have been a sister in Raleigh Court United Methodist Church’s family of Christ. I have experienced loving support during personal crisis and joys. Being a Director of Youth Ministries held me to a high standard of integrity and conduct.
Many of our members have similar stories of the power of our Christian community. We should never underestimate what Christ can do with our testimony when we are “one in the bond” of His love
Prayer
Oh Lord keep us ONE in the bond of love. May every effort we offer in your Name be supported by prayer, witness, study , and time spent together. In Christ name we pray, AMEN
*Contributed by Stephanie Dickenson
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