We were created by God to have a relationship with Him and with others. The Bible clearly states that we have a need for strong and healthy relationships, and in Ecclesiastes Solomon writes about some of the wonderful benefits of having meaningful relationships with others.

In this chapter Solomon talks about three specific ways that you will benefit from having true friends.

First, a true friend will help you to get up after a fall. A friend will scoop you up, take away some of the burden, and get you back to your feet.

Second, in those cold times a friend will stay close and help to keep you warm.

Third, when another person puts you in danger a true friend will help protect and defend you.

Solomon’s three examples cover problems caused by our own doing, problems that are out of our control as a result of natural forces, as well as situations that are the result of the actions or bad decisions of someone else. Just about any difficulty you could possibly face would fit into one of these areas.

Solomon reminds us that friends will be there for us regardless of the situation and the circumstances. Following this, Solomon tells us that three is better than two!

So go ahead. Take the risk. Find others that you can connect with through your local church, small groups, or one on one interaction. Don’t let the fear of past hurts hold you back. Learn to find safe people and develop healthy bonds. Don’t miss out on the blessing of relationships. It’s one of God’s greatest gifts to you!

Father, I am grateful for the wonderful friends that are a blessing to me. I pray that you would help me to be a true and genuine friend to others.

Dr. Ann Shorb is a counselor with CCES in southern Pennsylvania. CCES offers Christian Marital Counseling, Pre Marital Counseling, and help for a number of other issues.