Relationship-Friends: Ecclesiastes 4:12

And if one prevails against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Today's discussion is the first in a series of talks on relationships, with today's focus is a look

at a friendly relationship between a man and a woman that turns adulterous. The "him" in our scripture text is Satan who comes to seek and destroy, and if successful in his mission will ruin at least two lives that otherwise would have remained for a lifetime. That said, all relationships are based on love, faith, trust, and respect for one another; therefore, when trust is betrayed, then the link is destroyed.

Now, let us focus on the question and allow me to offer helpful advice as a preventive measure that will ensure a lasting friendship, and they are: (a) include the spouses and or significant other in the relationship; in doing this forms a multi-string cord that leaves no room for Satan and his destructive schemes. (b) Always remember the sanctity of marriage, because marriage is an institution established and sanctioned by God? (c) When temptations come upon us rely on God the indwelling Holy Spirit who is our strength when we are at our weakest. (d) Search the scripture such as Romans 12:1, which states that we must present our bodies as living sacrifices holy and acceptable unto God. Living sacrificially is yielding not unto temptation, which means allowing God the indwelling Holy Spirit to take control of our minds and bodies. In doing so, we will be able to withstand Satan's lifestyle attacks because we are no match for Satan in our strength. In our weakness, God, the Holy Spirit, is our strength.

In every relationship, let the love of God rule as we reverence Him and respect our brothers and sisters (friends).