Today's daily devotion

No Lone Rangers

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.—ECCLESIASTES 4:9–10 KJV

Ellen’s husband, John, couldn’t remember which day it was. He forgot to change clothes. They received overdue bills that John insisted he had paid. A visit to their doctor confirmed Ellen’s worst fears: John was suffering from Alzheimer’s.

The next few years, Ellen stayed near her husband at all times. Eventually she had to help John with washing, dressing, and eating. He grew even more confused away from home, so she rarely left the house—even to attend church. Ellen tried to stay close to God through prayer and Bible study, but she sank into a mire of fear and depression. One day, her brother’s widow, Kate, called to catch up—and within days drove from a neighboring state to help.

“I’ve gone through this,” Kate said. “God doesn’t want you to handle it alone.” She almost forced Ellen to reestablish ties with her church and Bible study. She insisted Ellen see old friends. Kate also helped her sister-in-law connect with an Alzheimer’s support group and daycare for John. Rested and encouraged, Ellen took even better care of her husband.

Are you an Ellen today? Could you be a Kate to someone?

Lord God, You gave the writer of Ecclesiastes the wisdom to see that no one should stand alone. Help me to swallow my pride and admit I need other people.

Adapted from

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