The concept of “iron sharpening iron” obviously implies at least two pieces of iron. It would be impossible for one tool to become sharper without the presence of the other. Left alone, both blades would be dull and quite useless. This simple Proverb illustrates an important biblical principle. God expects us to live and serve in a community of other believers.
Hebrews 10:25: "Not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." (NASB)
And He desires for us to build loving and growing relationships with others.
1 Thessalonians 2:8: in the same way we had a fond affection for you and were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us.
That’s why it is so important for each of us to build growing relationships with others in life. We all need people who can help us rub off the hard edges and who honestly have our best interests in mind when they do it. There are times when these sharpening conversations, even from loving friends, can come across as harsh, mean, or judgmental. But it definitely helps to know that these people care and that they have a genuine interest in helping us improve.
Iron Sharpening Iron is a Concept of:
- Accountability
- Motivation
- Willingness
God can use the “wounds of a friend” to sharpen us, motivate us, and to provide some accountability for our lives. However, true victory and lasting progress comes only from God Himself. Hebrews 4:12 says, “The word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
The Holy Spirit Convicts and the Word of God Sharpens.
REFLECTION
The “iron sharpening iron” process that Proverbs 27:17 provides is indeed a helpful and maybe even convicting part of a believer’s life. We must highly value and build Godly and growing relationships with other Christ followers who can exhort us to a closer walk with Him, but these relationships and the resulting conversations and discussions must drive us back to the Word of God where our loving and gracious Heavenly Father gives us true life-changing strategies.
PRAYER
Gracious God, thank you for everyone you’ve placed in my life. I pray to ask you to strengthen the relationships I have. Place me in the path of wise people who can become my friends. Equip me with wisdom to sharpen them and make them better. Give me the humility so that they can also sharpen me and make me better. Let us be the church to one another as you request of us dear Lord! Remind us daily that this is apart of our Kingdom Assignment: Love God, Love Others. Amen.
Today's Devotional was provided by Contributing Editor Mel Walker.
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