Overview:
Ecclesiastes 4:9–12
Loneliness has been called the most desolate word in the English language. But it’s more than a word. To many, it is a fact of life, especially for those who make it to the top (as we saw in the previous message) and begin to live distant and unaccountable lives. As Solomon finished describing that grim scene, he felt the need to offer a better plan, which led him into the thoughts we’re considering today. If we take his counsel to heart, we’ll discover one of the most important truths in all Scripture: two really are better than one. And upon discovering and applying Solomon’s words, we learn how to survive these lonely, desolate days between here and eternity.
Message Summary:
In this message, Pastor Chuck Swindoll addresses one of the most desolate human experiences: loneliness. After exploring the isolation that often accompanies high-level success, Chuck turns to Solomon’s “better plan” for human existence. Focusing on the classic passage in Ecclesiastes 4, the sermon underscores the essential need for companionship, accountability, and partnership. Chuck explains that “two are better than one” not just for emotional comfort, but for practical survival in a world that can be harsh and unforgiving. This teaching provides a roadmap for breaking out of isolation and building the relationships necessary to endure the “ragged edge” of life.
Message Key Facts:
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The Power of Partnership: Solomon begins by stating that two have a “good return for their labor.” Chuck emphasizes that synergy in relationships leads to greater productivity and shared rewards (Ecclesiastes 4:9).
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The Safety Net of Friendship: A key benefit of companionship is mutual support during failure. “If either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion.” Chuck notes that isolation is dangerous because the “one who falls” with no one to help is in a position of extreme vulnerability (Ecclesiastes 4:10).
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The Comfort of Presence: Using the illustration of two lying together to keep warm, the message highlights that relationships provide a vital “warmth” or encouragement that cannot be generated alone (Ecclesiastes 4:11).
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Strength in Numbers: While one can be overpowered and two can resist, Solomon introduces the “cord of three strands” which is not quickly torn apart. Chuck applies this to the importance of keeping God as the third strand in every relationship to provide ultimate strength (Ecclesiastes 4:12).
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Breaking the Cycle of Loneliness: Survival in a “desolate” world requires an intentional move toward others. Chuck challenges the “lone ranger” mentality that many successful or hurting people adopt.
Message References:
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Ecclesiastes 4:9: The foundational principle that two are better than one because of their shared work.
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Ecclesiastes 4:10: The warning of “woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up.”
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Ecclesiastes 4:11: The metaphorical and practical need for the warmth of companionship.
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Ecclesiastes 4:12: The power of a “cord of three strands” in providing maximum protection and durability.
