Proverbs 27:17

Proverbs 27:17 (ESV): “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

Friction is an important part of everyday life. Without it, we could never light a match or open a jar. Friction is used to sharpen blades, just as it is to sharpen our understanding. Don’t despise frictional conversations that come as a result of critical thinking and constructive criticism. These things are meant to sharpen us.

Solomon reminds his sons of the importance of being challenged in their thoughts and beliefs through friendly conversations. This is how we grow and are strengthened in our convictions. They should also strive to be this kind of brother in the lives of those around them. What a tragedy it would be to avoid such conversations—God uses them to sanctify us.

How do you handle a friendly challenge to your beliefs? Are you threatened, or are you comfortable? Just as iron sharpens iron, so too does a challenging conversation sharpen us. We should never become hostile toward one another, but instead, we should challenge each other in love. Don’t avoid tough subjects with one another—create a little friction in your conversations for the sake of sharpening one another. Amen?

Father, we thank You that You sharpen us regularly. We appreciate the challenge in Your Word and how it shapes our lives. May we have edifying conversations with one another for the sake of growth, to the glory of Your name. We pray in Jesus’ name, amen.