I’m in the midst of studying the ancient wisdom of Solomon. This article is derived from his words in Ecclesiastes. Here are four quick reasons you should never choose to travel or do life alone:

Two are better than one when it comes to … 

1. Working

Ecclesiastes 4:9 – Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.

When it comes to work … two are definitely better than one. And difficult assignments always become easier when there are two carrying the load.

In this new world, when it comes to our work we are more connected than ever but also simultaneously lonelier than ever.  Working with others is a wise choice in this radically independent era; not only does it lighten your load and improve the final product, but it also elevates the quality of your life.  The “good return” mentioned here by Solomon is not only monetary but also relational!

[Tweet “You were never meant to do life alone!”]

[Tweet “None of us are as smart as all of us!”]

2. Walking

Ecclesiastes 4:10 – If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.

It has been said that every single person is in one of three places in life …
– You are just heading into a storm.
– You are in the middle of a storm.
– You are just coming out of a storm.

We should be grateful for friends who can be at our sides physically when unexpected storms ravage our lives or families. But we should be even more thankful for that friend who can also have our back spiritually; that person who can help you up and cheer you on when you fall into sin or begin to drift from God.

A friend who knows all about you and still likes you is a great gift!

[Tweet “A good friend knows all your stories. A best friend helped you write them.”]

[Tweet “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses. ~ Proberbs 27:6”]

3. Warmth

Ecclesiastes. 4:11 – Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?

The only way to stay warm alone it so carry extra blankets and increase your load dramatically. Instead, traveling with a companion creates warmth and reduces your load.

Our spiritual life is a lot like a fire; even after the flame fades, the closer to you stay to the other coals the longer you stay warm. If a coal decides to leave the flame and other coals … it doesn’t take long for that solo coal to grow cold.

Don’t be that coal, Solomon says!

[Tweet “Build a man a fire, and he’ll be warm for a day. Set a man on fire, and he’ll be warm for the rest of his life. ~ Terry Pratchett”]

4. Watch

Ecclesiastes. 4:12 – Though one may be overpowered two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

It is dangerous to do life on your own. A good friend who is willing and able to watch your back physically and spiritually can literally save your life. Being a loner is not wise!

Community with others and fellowship with God (the third strand between friends) are neglected only by fools.

[Tweet “I would rather walk with a friend in the dark, than alone in the light. ~Helen Keller”]

[Tweet “A single twig breaks, but the bundle of twigs is strong. ~ Tecumseh”]

 

*** I am indebted to Solomon and Warren Wiersbe for these insights.