Around the age of three all of my kids went through a phase of ‘I can do it myself.’ They are fiercely independent as they learn new skills by practicing over and over again.
Finally, they hit a stage where they no longer want to do it by themselves. Why? Because they already know they can. Funny, huh?
As Christians sometimes we get stuck in the phase of ‘I can do it myself.’ We want to seem so strong and mature in Christ that we don’t let anyone else see our weaknesses or see the hurt inside our hearts.
So, we put on the face of ‘I can do it myself.’ Doesn’t matter how many times we fail, when no one is looking. It just matters that no one knows we are struggling to get up and try again.
God never intended us to face our troubles alone. He is with us each day, but he also says that we need each other to be stronger.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
New International Version (NIV)
9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their labor:
10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.
But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.
11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Are you struggling to get up? It’s time to lean on a friend. Someone else who shares the journey with you, can pray with you and help you up when you fall. God doesn’t intend for you to face life alone in your own strength.
Where have you found the people that have come along to be your Ecclesiastes friends?
Thoughts On Plot 
This is the second time I’ve come across this verse today, Michelle.
Hhhm, when God starts repeating himself, I start listening re-al close.
Friends have made all the difference for me during the tough times.
I’m glad you have found friends to support you! I know you are a huge blessing to others as well…me too!
I agree with Beth–friends are my strength during the tough times. I’m thankful for friends who can see my abilities when I second guess them.
You are so talented, Lisa! I’m glad that you find encouragement in your friendships. I really appreciate my friends, too!
I found them so many places but mostly–and not oddly–I’ve found most of them at church.
Those who share our faith often bring the greatest encouragement. Glad you stopped by, Jane.
My pottery company is named Cord of Three Strands so this verse is very special to me. I even have a cord that has 3 strands as a decorative piece. It also represents: my writing, me, and God.
Love this post.
Thanks, Pat! That sounds like a fabulous name for a business…all about the Master Potter.
Aside from having an awesome sister =), I am so blessed with a couple of awesome friends. Amazingly these are friends I made in years past while reaching out in kindness to others. The reward has been the discovery of some spectacular friendships.
Hey, Sis…Awesomeness must run in the family…hehe.