January 6, 2014 - "Standing In A Group"

Happy Monday morning to you all, Last night we had a great time at Life Group. We weighed in, we had a time of eating and sharing, we started our curriculum for 2014 (Freedom Connections), and then had a powerful time of prayer. Due to the Super Bowl game on February 2nd, our next meeting will be Feb. 9th. We got some new recipes last night - LOVED it! We continued to discuss the importance of accountability in helping each of us stand and maintain our health (Freedom Connection #1: Truth Put Into Action = Freedom). This morning, let's consider a passage from God's word that supports our efforts to be in a healthy life group. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (MSG) 9-10 It’s better to have a partner than go it alone. Share the work, share the wealth. And if one falls down, the other helps, But if there’s no one to help, tough! 11 Two in a bed warm each other. Alone, you shiver all night. 12 By yourself you’re unprotected. With a friend you can face the worst. Can you round up a third? A three-stranded rope isn’t easily snapped. Same passage - different wording: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (CEV) 9 You are better off to have a friend than to be all alone, because then you will get more enjoyment out of what you earn. 10 If you fall, your friend can help you up. But if you fall without having a friend nearby, you are really in trouble. 11 If you sleep alone, you won’t have anyone to keep you warm on a cold night. 12 Someone might be able to beat up one of you, but not both of you. As the saying goes, “A rope made from three strands of cord is hard to break.” Here's what I see in this: 1. There's POWER in the group. When the Word speaks of a great return, we plan on seeing the connection to that truth in February as we weigh-in again and share the testimonies of victory. Knowing we are walking together toward a common goal of fabulous health helps ensure the scales will be friendly at our next gathering. (PS - it's not too late to get in - weigh, record your weight, and bring it in February. We are not sharing WHAT we weigh, just whether we gained, maintained, or lost each month.) 2. I read recently: "Every partnership has three strands: you, those you are partnering with and the common interest that holds the relationship together. Partnership and purpose go hand-in-hand." I can so see this in our verse today. 3. Finally - I love round up a third. How about a fourth? How about a Freedom Connection Group in your city? If you are interested, let me know and I will get you the teaching materials each month and help you get started. So, as we start our week, find someone to connect with and find strength and safety in relationships. And remember, some relationships are eternal! PK