Proverbs 27:17 NLT
As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
If you take a dull knife and a sharp one and begin to rub the blades against one another for the purpose of sharpening the dull one, the reality is that both are going to be sharpened in the process. Even in mentoring relationships where an older and wiser person is pouring into a younger one, both are blessed by the interaction and learn from each other. So, the reality of our interaction within a Christian community is that iron sharpens iron—both ways. Everyone wins.
For the Christ follower, interacting in a community is always a two-way street. Because of the very nature of Christ’s Spirit living within us and leading us, we will always grow and mature by and through the relationships we share.
Right now in your life, who are you in the sharpening process with?
Listen to The Good News Bible’s version of Proverbs 27:17:
People learn from one another, just as iron sharpens iron.
This slightly different twist allows for the fact that in the kingdom of God, even a brother or sister that we may disagree with on some issues, we can learn something of value from. Being an active part of a biblical community means teachability and humility are necessary dynamics for us all. Growing, challenging, teaching, sharing, and sharpening. Today, who is one person you can thank for being a constant sharpening force in your life - don’t wait to let them know. And who might God bring to mind that you can be an active sharpening tool for in your circle?
Let’s pray together: “Heavenly Father, thank You for all those in my life that sharpen me, whether in full agreement or some disagreement. Thank you for all those who allow me the privilege of sharpening them. May I stay teachable, humble, fully obedient to You. As above, so below. Amen”