Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Beginning of the
Fifteen Days Lent
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
George Jobin John
St.
Andrews MTC, NY
9 Two are better than
one, because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one
will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have
another to help.
Friends are unique individuals that are good for the
heart and soul. There are multiple definitions of what a friend is. A friend
can be a person attached to another person or a person who is a supporter.
Friends are not limited to individuals that you are not related to, but a good
friend can be a family member, a co-worker, etc. Friends will help you through
suffering and celebrate your achievements.
The Bible talks about the achievement two individuals would have together,
instead of being alone. Two individuals can accomplish things more efficiently
and lift each other up to fulfill the purpose that God has in both their lives.
In Proverbs 27:17 states: "As
iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." Reflect
upon times of need in your lives, that another individual helped you move along
when things were tough. We as individuals have to keep our eyes open to receive
those that come into our lives. We might hope for a specific individual but God
sends different people to help. We need to be open to the idea of accepting
those that are willing to be there for us and humble ourselves to
receive the help.
The Bible also states about keeping good company. Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good
character." 1 Corinthians 15:33. Proverbs 13:20 states: "Walk with the wise and become
wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." We should
be mindful of those that you befriend. There will be times that you will have
to be a stronger brother or sister in Christ for your friend and you will have
to help them through their dark paths. In order for that to happen, you will
have to be strong in the Lord to make sure you will not fall to temptations.
Throughout your childhood and adulthood you will see that friends come in and
out of your life. Instead of feeling neglected or angry that those friends are
not part of your life at the current stage, be happy that they came and served
a purpose when you needed them. They will surely have a special place in your
heart. For Today, I ask that you pray for your friends, especially the ones
that you have lost in touch with. Pray for current friends and that God will
keep bringing individuals into your life that you will need. Pray that God will
show you which of your friends need help and you can lend a helping hand.