Good friends make each other better, the way iron sharpens iron.
“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”Proverbs 27:17 (KJV)
What does “Sharpening” mean in Proverbs 27:17?
The picture is of a craftsman sharpening a blade by rubbing metal against metal. The proverb says a friend sharpens the face of a friend, which suggests it happens in person, through real contact.
Going deeper
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. Sharpening involves friction, and this proverb suggests that good friendships do too. A friend who never challenges us is pleasant, but a friend who cares enough to be honest helps us become sharper and better. The purpose of the friction is not to wear each other down but to give each other an edge.
That takes trust, and trust takes time. It also takes humility on both sides: the willingness to speak carefully and the willingness to listen without getting defensive. Think about who sharpens you. Thank them this week. And think about whom you might help in the same way. Perhaps there is a friend who would welcome an honest conversation, or a regular time to pray and talk. Deep friendships are one of the great gifts God gives, and they are worth investing in. Choose your friends and your friction wisely.
Reflect
Who sharpens you, and whom could you help to grow through a real conversation?
Pray
Lord, thank You for friends who make me better. Help me to be that kind of friend, honest and kind, and give me humility to receive the same. In Jesus' name, amen.
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