Strength in Three Strands

Sunday, August 31

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV)
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 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. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Devotion

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 reminds us, "Two are better than one... if either of them falls, one can help the other up." This passage echoes the sermon's call to be "fitted together" in the body of Christ. Just as a puzzle is incomplete without every piece, the church thrives when each member finds their fit, connected in unity and purpose.

The sermon, rooted in Ephesians 2:11-22, emphasizes that believers, once strangers, are now united by Christ's blood into God's family. Ecclesiastes reinforces this: we weren't meant to walk alone. A lone ember fades, but together, we burn brightly, reflecting God's glory. The passage highlights three blessings of connection: reward for labor, relief in storms, and restoration after failure. When fitted into the church, we find protection and strength, as "a cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

Serving and unity, as the sermon urges, amplify our purpose. Like a football team with diverse roles but one goal, the church advances the gospel when we embrace our unique callings. Let’s reject isolation, intentionally connect, and serve one another in love, trusting God to weave us into His holy temple, where our collective strength glorifies Him and reaches the lost.

• Write a Declaration of Surrender: Model Ruth’s commitment to Naomi in your relationships.