Friendship

Proverbs 27: 17 

As iron sharpens iron,

    so one person sharpens another.

You hear this scripture from Proverbs 27 warmly mentioned quite often. Usually, it’s used in the context of how friends sharpen one another. How in order to sharpen a sword made of iron, you need iron. Like when someone says encouraging or edifying words to us, we graciously thank them for sharpening us. You know what? That’s actually more like buffing your sword, not sharpening it. 

To sharpen a sword or knife, you have to repeatedly run the blade against something harder than it. It’s rough work and requires some real friction. Personally, I see such a true void in this area in our American culture. The reality for some, I’d even say most,  in our society is that when things start to get uncomfortable, rough, or we are held accountable for our actions, we run. We go to another church, job, or even find another spouse. Situations like “if my feelings are hurt, or my needs are not being met, it must not be right.” Disclaimer: When someone whacks their sword against yours, it is painful, and it usually causes sparks.

One time my pastor/mentor/friend quite frankly called me out on bitterness that I was holding tightly to. I had two choices; one was to cut her off and tighten my grip on bitterness and unforgiveness or could heed her wisdom and let it go and allow my heart to be softened and my sword to be sharpened. I chose the latter. It was a painful, rough season, but the growth and healing that took place were priceless. I’d do it again without hesitation.

When sharpening a sword or knife, there are basically three steps. King Solomon understood that 100% when he wrote Proverbs. Step one; file the blade. Step two run it back and forth numerous times against a stone, then end with oil and buffing. The word picture in this is us believers being the swords sharpened by those close to us and those in authority over us. An effective sword is sharp and smooth, ready for use. A dull sword that is just shiny from buffing is only good for display. To be impactful, “culture changers,” we must be effective and sharp. 

In my life there are 4 people (including my husband) that can whack their sword against mine and I will heed that strike. Stop, pray, self reflect, and listen to the Holy Spirit. I don’t want to be dull and shiny, I want to be sharp and effective. 

Who in your life sharpens your sword?

Do you need to ask someone to hold you accountable?