by Brandy Webb

9 Two are better than one,
Because they have a good reward for their labor.
10 For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.
But woe to him who is alone when he falls,
For he has no one to help him up.
11 Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm;
But how can one be warm alone? (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

My children wanted to have an unplugged camping trip on our property, meaning no devices, not even a cell phone. They scoped out the spot, planned supplies, put everything together, and set out yesterday to camp. They did have long range walkie-talkies so that I could stay in touch with them. It was so neat watching them go with their backpacks and tents. I am sure it made them feel very grown-up. 

Well, my daughter, Jazmyn, had her friend with her. The two girls planned to sleep in Jazmyn’s two-person tent. My son had his own, and all the extra supplies would be in his tent since he was by himself. Everything went great until nightfall. My son learned the value of having a friend when darkness descended. He did not like the fact that he was alone. After a while when he just could not fall asleep, he trekked back home.

I realized two important things: two are better than one, especially when it is cold outside, and when we do find ourselves alone and afraid it is nice to be able to go “home.” Home was where Josh and I were. Asher knew he would not be afraid back in his house with his parents. He would not be alone either. Well, we have a heavenly Father and Brother that we can turn to when we feel alone and afraid. They should be our go to “home” place. 

Fear can unravel us and steal our joy. It is good to have someone there to help lift us out of our fears or help us conquer them, and that is exactly what God the Father and Jesus can do for us if we let them. David faced Goliath without any human help, but he was definitely not alone. Daniel faced hungry lions without any other person, but he definitely wasn’t alone. 

We do not have to walk this road of life alone. Yes, it is nice to have a physical friend, but sometimes we may find ourselves without the help of a human hand. However, it doesn’t mean that there is no one there to help us. So, when we find ourselves afraid and “alone,” we need to go to God and ask Him to give us strength. Hold fast to God’s words, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).