#17 Triangles

I like to use analogies to help think about complex things. So here's an example. To start with, think of a vertical line connecting you - because of your trust in Jesus' sacrifice for the forgiveness of your sins - to God. From God's point of view that line is stronger than steel. But because we're human, pushed to and fro by all kinds of forces in life, we don't always feel so strong. Now think of another person you know who is also connected by their faith vertically to God. And lets say that you and this other person are friends, who you trust enough to share your joys and sorrows. Since you and your friend are both connected to God, the three of you form a triangle.

Compared to other 2-dimensional geometric figures, triangles are very strong; you can't bend or twist them. The next time you're out for a drive, look for triangles; if you're driving in a metropolitan area, I bet you'll see hundreds of them in 10 minutes. Overhead traffic signs, electric hi-voltage towers are stiffened and strengthened with lots and lots of triangles. The roof on your home is supported by trusses made up of triangles. The same idea applies to our lives. A friend who shares your faith is a wonderful stabilizing and strengthening force. (And if that friend happens to also be your spouse, you are blessed for a lifetime.)

Now add a second friend, who also is a person of faith. The three of you form a "horizontal" triangle, but each one is also connected (vertically) to the one God. This three-dimensional figure forms a pyramid, and you know how long pyramids last! This same pyramidal concept is what makes diamonds so precious; carbon atoms are connected to each other in three dimensions to give the hardest material in nature. Although my analogy only goes so far, you can imagine adding a fourth friend, a fifth friend, lots of friends, all connected by their faith to God. So the effect of many people connected to each other, each of whom are also connected to God, is one of greatly enhanced strength and stability. That's why Christian fellowship is so important to being fruitful in life. https://biblehub.com/ecclesiastes/4-12.htm