Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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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. 

Thought for the day:

Do the friends you keep build you up or bring you down? Which kind of friend are you?

Prayer: Gracious Heavenly Father, thank you for the blessing of friendship. Please allow us to use this gift to glorify you and to bless others. Amen!

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