The Friendship Formula

What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.


Jump Start

1. What is one thing you have pursued that you now consider meaningless or a waste of time and money?


2. More is better for working. Read Ecclesiastes 4:9 and 1 Corinthians 12:12. What does this mean in your life? Where do you need the synergy and encouragement of others? What about friction: is it easier to do it alone or not?  


3. More is better for walking. Read Ecclesiastes 4:10-11 and Galatians 6:1. Why are two better on a journey? What kind of “falls” do people experience? Have you ever helped someone when they have fallen?    


4. More is better for warfare. Read Ecclesiastes 4:12, 1 Peter 5:8, and 2 Corinthians 10:4. What type of warfare or battle do believers face? What are you facing (or have you faced)? Who is on your team? How does that help in the battle? 


5. Final Thought: Though your Life Group may be your big support, do you have a few believers who are praying for you daily? Who knows your issues and is encouraging you? Who will alert/challenge you before a fall and rescue you if you do stumble? What “rope” has God put before you that you need to grab. Make this a priority this week. Pray about the person God would have you partner up with! 

Deeper  

6.  Read John 5:19-20. How did Jesus do His work? What can we learn for our lives?  

7.  Read Matthew 4:18-22. Jesus had all power and all authority under heaven and earth. Why did He invite others to come along with Him?  

8. Read Luke 9:1-5. How did He send them out? Why? What did they do and learn? 

9. What else does having a partner do? In this instance and in our own lives? What have you experienced? 

10. Read Exodus 17:8-13. In church lingo, we sometimes talk about “holding up their arms.” This is where we get that phrasing. What can you learn from this example? Who was being supported in this example? How many ways of “helping” can you list?