Strong relationships are woven from more than two strands, and God is the third.
“And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”Ecclesiastes 4:12 (KJV)
What does “Threefold cord” mean in Ecclesiastes 4:12?
The Teacher has been describing the strength of partnership. He ends with an image of rope: one strand is weak, two are stronger, and three woven together are hard to break.
Going deeper
The Teacher writes, And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Many people apply this to marriage, with God as the third strand, but it fits any close friendship or community. A rope made of three strands is far stronger than one made of two. Some things are too heavy for one person, and some are still too heavy for two. We need others, and we need God in the middle.
This is an invitation to weave strong bonds. Who are the people you could invite into a closer circle, a small group, a prayer partnership, or a mentoring friendship? Ask God to be in the middle of it. When you face something too big to manage alone, do not carry it in isolation. Invite others in, and invite God in, and let the threefold cord hold you. Do not go it alone, and do not let others go alone either.
Reflect
Who could you invite into a closer circle of friendship and prayer this month?
Pray
Lord, thank You that we are stronger together with You in the middle. Weave me into strong friendships, and keep us faithful to each other. In Jesus' name, amen.
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