SHARPENED

Proverbs 27:17

As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. Proverbs 27:17, NKJV

I have found that there is a great benefit for the believer who surrounds themselves with those who are spiritually intelligent; those who show great wisdom in not only knowing the Scriptures but also have experience in living according to the Scriptures.

It is good to have those in our lives, who will cause us to become excited about the things of God. The individuals who are able to motivate us to not only know what the Scripture says but also to seek to live diligently in order to please the Lord, are a tremendous benefit. We too should seek to be that iron in the lives of others that is the sharpening influence that will bring about spiritual wisdom and spiritual intelligence in them.

There is a great advantage to the believer who desires to become better in their living in a world of relativism. There are those who can be the motivating factor that pushes us to be better spiritually than where we currently are right now. 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. Growing as a Christian is important. Choosing friends who will sharpen us is one practical way we can grow. God designed us to need each other for fellowship and for advancing His kingdom here on earth!!!

Father, thank You for this day and the blessing of those who love You with all their hearts, minds, and souls who sow into our lives. Lord, let Your abundant blessings flow from the storehouses over us and our family today. Lord, You are holy, awesome, and worthy of all our praise. Lord, we ask that You send People into our life that will encourage us in our faith. Lord, help us to have a teachable spirit, so we can continue to grow in You. Lord, You are the source of all strength and goodness. Lord, thank You for helping us to grow in faith and for putting friends in our life, who can help sharpen us. Lord, use us to sharpen those whom You put in our lives.

Father, we love You. Amen.