Three>Two>One

Three > Two > One
 
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NKJV
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? ¹² Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
 

Few things in life are more clear than the “>” (Greater than sign). Comparisons abound and we are always on a never-ending quest for the most bang for our buck and the greatest return on our investment. Sometimes it is obvious, but other times it takes time tested wisdom to know the outcome. Solomon summarizes for us three reasons that two are better than one. Here they are in bullet point form. (Because people love bullet point lists too)

·        Because there is greater reward for the labor
·        Because life is uncertain
·        Because loneliness isn’t cool
·        Because there is strength in numbers

No matter the issue, these time tested truths reinforce the need for teamwork in almost every area of life. "One is the loneliest number," sang Harry Nilsson on a Three Dog Night. But he went on to say that the second loneliest number is the number two. That “Two can be as bad as one,  it’s the loneliest number since the number one.” Essentially he is making the same point as King Solomon did eons ago. That three is better than two!

SO

So how do I as an individual multiply from one to two to three? Well, here is another list of bullet points to summarize some amazing ways that we can begin to improve.

·        Join God in His work
·        Join others in their goals
·        Invite others into your adventure

It was Henry Blackaby that coined the phrase “Join God in His Work.” Henry taught us that God is always at work all around us, we just need to look to see where He is working and join in on the fun.

Another great way for us to increase productivity and quality is to learn to come alongside others in their goals. In the Bible, Barnabas was known for this type of ministry.  His name actually means “Son of Encouragement.” Barnabas came alongside the Apostle Paul at a crucial point in his life to help and encourage him. God used Barnabas to help Paul, and God used Paul to pen much of the New Testament.

Finally, we can all do a better job by inviting others to come along for the adventure. This happens when we intentionally engage people in mentorship and discipleship. We pour into others and they are trained up through intentional, meaningful relationships.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. 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. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; But how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken."
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NKJV