Choosing Value: The Power of Togetherness in Life
Summary
In my sermon, I began by sharing a personal story about a trip to New York City with my wife, Melissa. We faced the challenge of navigating the subway system, which led to a profound question posed by the ticket machine: "Do I want to add value, or do I want to add time?" This question resonated with me beyond the context of the subway, prompting me to consider the meaning of life and the choices we make. I posed this question to the congregation, asking whether they would choose value—making a difference and having meaningful relationships—or time, simply living a long life and seeing what unfolds.
I then transitioned into discussing the importance of relationships, beginning with our relationship with God through His son, Jesus, and extending to the relationships with those around us. I referenced Genesis 2:18, where God states that it is not good for man to be alone, highlighting that life is better together. This set the stage for the main theme of the sermon: the value of relationships and how they are integral to living a fulfilling life.
I continued by exploring the teachings of Solomon in Ecclesiastes chapter four. Solomon, despite being the wisest man, realized that life felt meaningless when lived in isolation. He tested everything the world had to offer, only to find that relationships with others brought true satisfaction and meaning. I emphasized that Solomon's conclusion was that life is better together, and I outlined four reasons why this is true: progress, encouragement, comfort, and companionship.
I shared the story of Brandon Jones, a high school athlete who faced cancer, and how his teammates showed solidarity by shaving their heads. This act of togetherness and support illustrated Solomon's message that we are all in this together. I also recounted the inspiring story of Megan Vogel, a track athlete who helped her exhausted competitor, Arden McMath, cross the finish line, demonstrating the encouragement we find in togetherness.
I encouraged the congregation to lean into their relationships with God and others, offering practical steps such as spending time in the Word, fasting from gadgets and social media to spend time with family and friends, sending notes of appreciation, and getting involved in small groups within the church.
In conclusion, I led the congregation in prayer, asking for God's help in moving from isolation to togetherness, and I invited them to respond by seeking prayer, connecting with Jesus, and joining groups to foster deeper relationships.
Key Takeaways:
1. Life's profound question is whether we seek value or time. Choosing value means seeking relationships that add meaning to our lives. As we navigate life's subway, let's prioritize relationships that bring eternal significance, not just temporal existence. [34:01]
2. The story of creation in Genesis 2:18 reminds us that even in a perfect world, relationships are essential. God's declaration that it's not good for man to be alone teaches us that our need for connection is woven into the fabric of our being. [37:11]
3. Solomon's wisdom in Ecclesiastes chapter four shows us that life's meaning is found in togetherness. Through his own life's trials, he discovered that achievements and possessions pale in comparison to the richness of shared experiences and mutual support. [40:12]
4. The law of synergy, as seen in Ecclesiastes 4:9, reveals that collaboration brings greater returns than individual efforts. In our spiritual walk, this translates to the need for godly friends who encourage and challenge us to live out our faith boldly. [42:20]
5. Comfort in togetherness, as Solomon points out, is not just about physical warmth but the emotional and spiritual support we receive from others. In times of need, the presence of a friend provides a comfort that solitude cannot offer. [52:44]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 2:18 (NIV) - "The Lord God said, 'It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.'"
2. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV) - "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. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."
#### Observation Questions
1. What question did the ticket machine in New York City pose to the pastor, and how did it lead him to reflect on life? ([34:01])
2. According to Genesis 2:18, what did God say about man's condition of being alone?
3. In Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, what are the four benefits of togetherness that Solomon highlights?
4. How did the pastor illustrate the concept of encouragement through the story of Megan Vogel and Arden McMath? ([47:22])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does the pastor believe that choosing value over time is significant for a meaningful life? ([34:41])
2. How does Genesis 2:18 emphasize the importance of relationships even in a perfect world?
3. What does Solomon's conclusion in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 suggest about the role of relationships in finding life's meaning? ([40:12])
4. How do the stories of Brandon Jones and Megan Vogel illustrate the principles found in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12? ([47:22] and [53:25])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the question posed by the ticket machine: "Do I want to add value, or do I want to add time?" How does this question resonate with your current life choices? ([34:01])
2. Genesis 2:18 states that it is not good for man to be alone. How can you actively seek to build meaningful relationships in your life this week?
3. Solomon found that life is better together due to progress, encouragement, comfort, and companionship. Which of these areas do you feel you need the most in your life right now, and why? ([40:12])
4. The pastor suggested practical steps like spending time in the Word and fasting from gadgets to improve relationships. Which of these steps can you commit to this week, and how will you implement it? ([01:11:08])
5. Think about a time when you were like Megan Vogel, helping someone in need. How did that experience impact you, and how can you be more intentional about offering support to others? ([47:22])
6. Who are your "2 a.m. friends"—those you can call in times of need? If you don't have such friends, what steps can you take to develop these kinds of relationships? ([50:24])
7. The pastor encouraged joining small groups to foster deeper relationships. Have you considered joining or starting a small group? What steps can you take to get involved in one? ([01:12:46])
Devotional
Day 1: Choosing Value Over Longevity
Life's most profound decisions often revolve around whether we seek to add value or merely time to our existence. The choice to add value is a conscious decision to engage in relationships and activities that bring depth and meaning to our lives. It's about prioritizing connections that have the potential to leave a lasting impact, both on ourselves and on others. This approach to life encourages us to look beyond the superficial and temporary, urging us to invest in what truly matters. It's a call to live intentionally, with a focus on quality rather than quantity.
In the hustle of daily life, it's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of longevity—seeking to extend our time without necessarily considering the richness of that time. However, when we choose to add value, we opt for a life that is not just longer, but fuller and more significant. This means nurturing relationships that challenge and inspire us, contributing to our communities in ways that make a difference, and living in a manner that aligns with our deepest values and beliefs.
"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." - Matthew 6:19-21
Reflection: Consider the ways you've been investing your time recently. Are there areas in your life where you can shift your focus from merely adding time to adding value? How can you make a conscious effort to enrich the lives of those around you today? [34:01]
Day 2: The Necessity of Companionship
From the very beginning, the need for companionship was evident. Even in a perfect world, the presence of another was deemed essential for a fulfilling life. This intrinsic need for connection is not just a social preference but a fundamental aspect of our humanity. It is a reminder that our lives are not meant to be lived in isolation but in the company of others who can share in our joys, challenges, and experiences.
The importance of relationships is not just about having people around us; it's about the depth and quality of these connections. It's about finding those who can walk with us through life's journey, offering support, wisdom, and companionship. These relationships are the ones that help us grow, challenge us to be better, and provide comfort in times of need. They are the relationships that reflect the love and community that we were created to enjoy and participate in.
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!" - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
Reflection: Reflect on your current relationships. Are there people in your life who you have neglected or taken for granted? How can you take a step today to strengthen a meaningful relationship or reach out to someone in need of companionship? [37:11]
Day 3: The Meaning Found in Togetherness
Solomon's wisdom in Ecclesiastes reveals a profound truth about the human experience: life's meaning is found in togetherness. Despite his vast knowledge and wealth, Solomon recognized that achievements and possessions could not compare to the fulfillment that comes from shared experiences and mutual support. This realization is a powerful reminder that the essence of a meaningful life is not found in solitary pursuits but in the bonds we form with others.
The pursuit of togetherness is about more than just socializing; it's about engaging in relationships that are mutually enriching. It's about creating a community where individuals can find support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. These connections become the foundation upon which we can build a life of purpose and joy. They remind us that we are not alone in our struggles and that there is great value in walking alongside others.
"Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes!" - Psalm 133:1-2
Reflection: Think about the communities you are a part of. How do they add meaning to your life? What can you do to foster a greater sense of togetherness and unity within these groups? [40:12]
Day 4: Synergy in Spiritual Companionship
The law of synergy, as highlighted in Ecclesiastes, teaches us that collaboration often yields greater results than individual efforts. This principle holds true in our spiritual lives as well. Having godly friends who encourage and challenge us is crucial for our faith journey. These companions act as iron sharpening iron, helping us to grow stronger and more resilient in our walk with God.
Spiritual companionship is about more than just casual fellowship; it's about forming bonds with those who can speak truth into our lives, pray for us, and join us in serving others. These relationships are a source of strength and motivation, pushing us to live out our faith with courage and conviction. They are a testament to the power of community in fostering spiritual growth and transformation.
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." - Hebrews 10:24-25
Reflection: Who are the spiritual companions in your life that encourage and challenge you? How can you be more intentional about seeking out and nurturing these relationships to enhance your spiritual growth? [42:20]
Day 5: The Comfort of Shared Burdens
Solomon's reflections on the comfort found in togetherness speak to the deep human need for emotional and spiritual support. The warmth of a friend's presence in times of need is a comfort that solitude cannot offer. This shared burden becomes lighter, not because the circumstances have changed, but because we are not facing them alone.
The comfort of togetherness is a powerful force that can help us endure the most challenging times. It's the knowledge that there are others who care, who are willing to stand with us, and who offer their strength when ours is failing. This type of support is a reflection of the compassion and empathy that we are called to extend to one another, mirroring the love and comfort that God provides to us.
"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself." - Galatians 6:2-3
Reflection: Is there someone in your life who is currently carrying a heavy burden? How can you come alongside them to offer comfort and support today? [52:44]
Quotes
"Solomon says that life is better together because, man, there's progress in togetherness. But then he goes on to say this. Not only is there progress in togetherness, he goes on to say there's also encouragement in togetherness." [45:54]
"It means to hold in reverence, high regard, to honor, to be in awe of. And so Solomon, at the end of his life, looks back and says, you know what you need? Man, you need a relationship with God, but you also need some relationships with some of the people that God has put around you." [01:10:35]
"And she literally, carries her to the finish line. And those two young ladies finished that race together. An amazing, inspiring story that for a brief moment of time, years ago, actually made national headlines because of the selfless nature of what took place." [48:53]
"life's challenges. We need some strong people of faith that are going to be in our life and in our corner. And they're going to be challenging us and spurring us on, on toward love and good deeds." [43:23]
"And if that's your mind, mindset, you're missing the whole point here, right? But the purpose is like when you're all alone, man, like it's good to have somebody there next to you, right? You push their arms around you and they're like, man, man, listen, man, I'm with you." [53:04]
"Solomon says that there is progress in togetherness. There's progress in togetherness. This is what he says as we move on in verses seven through nine, Solomon says, again, I saw something meaningless under the sun." [41:20]
"Rows are great. We need to be in a row. Circles are even better that's where relationships are formed. That's when people can pray with you and for you. That's when you can share what's going on in your life and your family." [01:12:46]
"Do I want to add value? Or do I want to add time? Man, do I want to add value? Or do I want to add time? Now, sure, that question was related to the subway. But the more I thought about it, the more I began to think about life and the meaning of life and life itself." [34:01]
"the one thing that we can add into our life that would give us value in the here and now, and then according to the science will actually have the ability to extend our life and to give us a longer and a happier and a healthier life are real quality relationships with other people." [35:50]
"God himself makes it clear that life is better together. It's better when we have a relationship with God to his son, Jesus, which is the first and greatest relationship we have. But, but it's also better when we have real life, intimate relationships with some people, people that God has put around us." [37:46]
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