So glad you can join me for today's encouragement from Our Daily Bread.

Marvin Williams wrote today's reading, and he titled it Strong Support in Christ.

A runner in the London Marathon experienced why it's vital not to run the big race alone.

After months of grueling preparation,

the man wanted to finish strong. But as he stumbled toward the finish line, he found himself doubled over from exhaustion and on the verge of collapsing. Before he fell to the ground,

two fellow marathoners grabbed his arms, one on his left and the other

on his right, and helped the struggling runner complete the course. Like that runner, the writer of

Ecclesiastes reminds us of several important advantages that come from having others run the race

of life with us.

Solomon set forth the principle that two are better than one.

He shed a spotlight on the advantages of joint efforts and mutual toil.

He also wrote that partnership can lead to a good return for their labor.

During times of difficulty, a companion is there to help the other up.

When nights are dark and cold, friends can huddle together to keep warm.

And during danger, two can defend themselves against an assailant.

Those whose lives are woven together can possess great strength. With all our weaknesses and frailties, we need the strong support and security of a community of believers in Jesus.

Let's press on together as He leads us.

Thank you. Let's press on together as he leads us. Today's Our Daily Bread devotional scripture reading is from Ecclesiastes chapter 4 verses 9 through 12.

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.

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