Proverbs 27:17: As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
Insight
As by friction, one iron instrument is sharpened and polished by contact with another, so we may be a help to each other by interesting and profitable exchange of thought. A recluse is always a very one-sided man. He who would be a blessing to his fellows must mingle with them that he may learn to understand their needs and their sorrows, as well as that he may find gain by what in them is superior to his own knowledge or virtues. Among Christians, fellowship one with another is precious indeed, and becomes increasingly sweet as the days grow darker. 1
Application
Be of good courage, and let us be strong for our people and for the cities of our God. And may the Lord do what is good in His sight.” 2 Samuel 10:12
If you are not meeting with other men on a regular basis, fellowshipping around the Word of God, it is very unlikely that you will experience much personal sharpening and shaping. Do not live with the thought of “I wonder what I could have become if only I was committed to discipleship.” Really consider the value of growing spiritually deeper with other men. That is God’s blueprint for fruitful living.
Motivation
Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Isaiah 35:3
He was more than a friend, because he had become an iron man to me. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Father, please teach me how to allow others to sharpen my life in Christ.
1. Ironside, H. A. (1908). Notes on the Book of Proverbs. Neptune, NJ: Loizeaux Bros.
