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.

--Parallel verses:
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭18‬:‭24
One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10‬:‭24‬-‭25‬
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

I attended my weekly men’s prayer and networking group today. This group is chock full of Christian leaders who are transparent about their struggles and ask for prayer. There, we build valuable spiritual relationships, forged in the fire. These are guys who will stand with me in prayer and action in life. We lock arms together in ministry.

I also lead a community Bible study, and the men and women in this group are like spiritual brothers and sisters. We work through the highs and the lows of life together. And together experience the Spirit of God in our midst. God provides for us, answers our prayers, and guides us deeper into the sacrificial love we are called to — deeper into relationship with him.

Do you know who your strong men or women are, who can stand in the battle with you? 

When two come together they can defend themselves and a three strand cord is powerful, capable of lifting or supporting serious weight. In my life, I have searched for friends who stick closer than a brother, and I have found some. How can I be this type of friend to others? It takes humility, resolve, and a firm foundation on the truth of God’s Word.

So as I mature in serving Christ Jesus, and his days draw near, I am called to not give up meeting with my brothers and sisters. Why?  So we can spur each other on to love and good deeds. Also so we can encourage each other in our challenges and struggles in this fallen world.  What great joy is found in a faithful friend!

Lord, thank you for this great set of verses on friendship. May I be a great friend and may I set aside my pride to support my friends. Thank you for providing friends to stick close to me!