Last week, at church our pastor taught from Genesis 2 (www.missionhills.org). This sermon prompted curiosity within my soul and further reflective study. I wondered about some of the points he highlighted, particularly in verse 18: “Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper as his partner.”
The author of the Genesis account pointed out that Adam was created by God and lived in the presence of God in the garden (Genesis 2:15-17). Yet, even while enjoying the full and complete presence of God, God designed Adam for human companionship with other created human beings. He declared that it was not good for man to be alone.
Companionship – a person who shares the experiences of another, a person with whom one spends a lot of time, and a feeling of fellowship or friendship.
Perhaps the animals offered wonderful and even entertaining company, however by God’s design, the animals were insufficient for the needs of Adam and humankind. God offered perfect and full relationship with Adam, and yet in His good wisdom, He declared that Adam needed fellowship with other people too.
With whom do you fellowship? Reflect on your day, week, and month noticing the companions in your life.
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been told by well-meaning followers of Christ that Jesus is all I need; that my needs for security, safety, protection, provision, and companionship are all met in God. Have you ever told yourself that you don’t need anyone else? Or, that you are fine alone? I have 😟
As I meditated upon God’s words in Genesis, I noticed relief and freedom within my soul. God does meet our needs and ultimately, He is all we need for salvation. However, in His providence, He designed human beings to need one another. I realized that it was okay to recognize needs within me and notice if they are met or not. I began to better understand the way God created humanity and His provision to meet our needs through others. God shifted some false narratives within me to show His heart for me and the world. He made us with needs and designed us to meet the needs of one another, no matter our age.
While pondering this I considered my 10-month-old granddaughter, Eve. Is God all she needs for salvation, definitely! But does she need the companionship of her mom and dad to care for her? Yes! My son and his wife nurture Eve’s soul with their presence, words, and touch. Eve experiences socialization and developmental growth as she interacts with other adults and children. She needs people in her life. She would not survive in isolation. Like Eve, we are created by God for intentional interdependence. Our needs are legitimate which is why God made provision to have them met in other another.
Who are the companions in your life; not just acquaintances, but those others with whom you share experiences, time, and connection?
I found my mind stretched with the realization that although Adam had everything he needed in the garden with God, God still declared it was not good for him to be alone. I wonder if Adam felt alone? Did he recognize the need for companionship? Regardless, God created a companion for Adam, someone with whom to experience life, time, and connection. God planned for him and us to need others.
Companions stimulate growth in our lives. Wonder about with whom you experience life, time, and connection.
Our triune God modeled this for us during Jesus time on earth. Jesus experienced companionship with twelve disciples as well as a group of women who accompanied His travels and teaching. They all engaged in life together and cared for one another. When Jesus sent out the twelve to minister to others, He sent them in pairs (Mark 6:7). And, later when Jesus sent out the 72 to minister (Luke10), He sent them two by two. Jesus’ decisions expressed the knowledge that humans were created for companionship.
Take an inventory of the companions in your life. In what ways do you engage authentically and vulnerably with them? Do others know what makes your heartbeat, what distracts you from living faithfully, and about the deep fears you battle with the Lord?
How have you embraced the false narrative that you don’t need others?
In what ways do you dismiss the needs of others, maybe even telling them to just depend on God? Take some space to let God rightly align the way you think and live following His Word.
The Scriptures expose many examples of companionship. David needed Jonathan. Jonathan needed David. Paul needed Barnabas. Barnabas needed Paul. Priscilla needed Aquila. Aquila needed Priscilla. Mary needed Martha. Martha needed Mary. Paul needed Lydia. Lydia needed Paul. John needed James. James needed John. Joanna, the wife of Chuza, needed Jesus. Jesus needed Joanna. What other examples come to your mind?
In God’s sovereign wisdom, He created us to enjoy companionship with others. We need one another. Thank God for your companionships. Live intentionally investing in the companions God has brought into your life. Share your needs with your companions. Look for ways to meet the needs of others.
Companionship is God’s idea and a gift to humankind. Savor space with others, allowing it to stimulate and nurture your soul. Receive God’s goodness to you and others through companionship.
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Drips from the Word: Muse about these Bible verses. Let these truths impact your living.
Luke 8:1-3 – After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.
Genesis 2:15, 18 – The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it…The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Splashes from the Spigot: Drink from deep wells. Read these recommended books to fill your soul.
David G. Benner. Sacred Companions: The Gift of Spiritual Friendship Direction . Downers Grove, IL 2004.
Peter Scazzaro. Emotionally Healthy Relationships Day by Day: A 40-Day Journey to Deeply Change Your Relationships. Grand Rapids, MI. 2017.
Sprinklings of Truth: Soak in meaningful songs. Check out these music videos to lift up your spirit.
Sanctus Real. We Need Each Other. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPm1sk-utjQ
TobyMac. Speak Life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeBv9r92VQ0
Puddles for Prayer: Thank you for praying for upcoming travel and speaking engagements.
March 10 – Littleton, CO
Breathe Retreat (A two hour spiritual retreat for women) – Join us. Email me for more information.