Devotion: Proverbs 27:17

Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

You have probably heard this statement before, as well as its common interpretation. Iron sharpening iron is not a new concept or one that can be mistaken or misinterpreted. Typically it refers to the forging of a weapon for battle. The tools that are used to create weapons are often made of the same materials – in this case iron. Whether it is a hammer, a chisel, a file, or something else, the use is the same – to create a sharp weapon useful in battle. And iron was known as one of the strongest metals, so iron sharpening iron is useful for building stronger believers. Not to mention, iron was considered to be unbreakable.

When applied in a spiritual sense it is often used to show us how one person can help another in their spiritual journey and growth. By surrounding ourselves with other believers we inevitably find ourselves strengthened. This is why it is so important that we choose our friends wisely. Who we associate with either lift us up or bring us down.

During the pandemic we saw people isolated and as a result there were a lot of mental health issues that developed. Churches were unable to meet together, small groups were canceled due to stay at home mandates, and Christians were unable to fellowship and lift one another up. There was no “sharpening” going on during that time as our communities were unable to meet. Luckily, this is no longer the case and we are free to meet up and fellowship once more, sharpening each other as we do.

So what does it look like? The process is simple. – we mutually influence one another in ways that are beneficial to both sides. This may come in the form of exhortation (encouragement), through praying for one another, accountability, constructive criticism, challenging one another, observation, or healthy competition. It could be the sharing of knowledge, skills, talents, or experiences. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us to encourage one another and build each other up. By doing so we are helping to sharpen our friends.

Are you surrounding yourself with strong believers who can help you grow in faith? And if so, are you doing what you can to help sharpen others? Today let’s focus on how we can help sharpen our friends. Take steps to reach out and help your friends grow in their spiritual journey. Be open to allowing yourself to be shaped and sharpened as well. The process should be mutually beneficial, so do your part to help sharpen the people in your life while allowing them to help sharpen you.

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