Living in Increase (Part 4) - Increase in CommunitySample

Week 3: Friendships

The Advantages of Companionship

The past two weeks, we’ve discussed the importance of mentor and mentee relationships, a crucial part of godly community. This week, we’re talking about building healthy friendships with peers: people on the same level as us in some way (both, for example, being parents of preschoolers, empty nesters, or in the first year as a new believer) and with whom we can learn and grow together.

The title of today’s entry comes from the passage in Ecclesiastes 4 in the New Living Translation. The writer sees that life without companionship is “meaningless and depressing” (Ecclesiastes 4:8). The only way to have a successful life is to be in community with others. This is the advantage of companionship!

Alone, we are vulnerable; together, we are powerful. When one falls, another can help him up. When one is sad, another can cheer her up. When one doesn’t know how to proceed, another can help guide and direct him. When you invest in godly community and friendships, you will enjoy the blessings of godly companionship!

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Join a small group or find friends to grow with together.