Whirlpool Buddies

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. – Ecclesiastes 4:12

Growing up my family had an above ground pool. One of the fun things that my friends and I would like to do is walk around the edge and try to get the water flowing in a circle. It didn’t take too long before the water seemed to be able to sweep us away with its current and we could take turns floating enjoying the free ride. Once we got bored moving in one direction, it would take all of our might to turn around and fight the force of the water and make it begin flowing in the opposite direction.

It seems that this principle isn’t unique to the pool games of kids, but a life or death strategy used as birds fly long distances. They take turns leading the flock so as to create a more aerodynamic formation. As the lead bird’s strength wears down, it drops to the back to conserve energy and another bird moves up to the front.

Both cyclists and NASCAR drivers use the same idea while drafting. Working together as a team proves to be more efficient than going alone.

The above scripture encourages us to build trusting relationships so that we are not overpowered, but lead powerful and effective lives. I believe that this is key in all areas of our spiritual journeys but most valuable in our prayer lives.

About 18 months ago, I was dealing with a particular issue that I could no longer carry the load on my own strength. While I could say that I enlisted the help of two friends, it was more like they just took over the reigns and began to diligently lift my needs up to our Father. As I reflect on the experience it reminds me of the times my childhood friends and I created whirlpools in the backyard. Together we would approach the throne of grace, but it was their efforts that carried me along when the reality of my situation seemed more than I could handle. When circumstances calmed down, I would join them again in prayer asking for a resolution. I am convinced that because my friends’ belief in prayer and their refusal to give up even when it sometimes interfered with their own struggles did I eventually come to a place of peace.

Are you dealing with an issue on your own? This is not the way God intended. He wants us to submit not just to His authority, but become vulnerable to a few individuals so that when the realities of this life are too great, we have the comfort of knowing we do not persist in our struggles alone.

No one likes to admit that they need help. It can be scary, intimidating, embarrassing, or shameful to make such a confession. But keeping our needs in the dark is not going to allow you to experience the peace that God desires for your life. Trust that God will guide you to one or two others who will love you regardless of what you are going through. Refuse to walk alone – instead, grab a few friends and go play in the Living Water!