Get married or go it alone.
That’s a valid question in today’s divorce-afflicted society.
Want to pay alimony? Child support? Give up half your retirement account? It doesn’t matter if your spouse has worked inside or outside the home, half belongs to them.
Isn’t it better to live alone? Keep what you earn safe? See to your best interests rather than risk what you’ve put your heart and soul into?
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 argues for being part of a family. Let’s look at this passage one verse at a time.
Verse 9 says:
“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.”
One can give aid to the other and pick up the slack when times get tough. They will be repaid double and more for their effort.
Verse 10 says:
“For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!”
The banana peels in life are frequent and unexpected. Life is easier when we have a helping hand at our side.
Verse 11 says:
“Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone?”
Loneliness is a strong precursor to depression, a top-tier killer of young people. Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among teens and 10th in the overall population.
Verse 12 says:
“And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
A spouse makes for a better life, and children can complete the bond. A good family will benefit us along life’s journey.
A treasured companion becomes a helper through the tangles of daily living. Together we avoid pitfalls that bring others down.
Live alone or as part of a family? Each person must decide. The argument for family is strong.
When we hold hands, life’s path is easier than walking alone.
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Code: FGO.F.22.19b.vp.esv