CounterfeitSample

Written by Madeline, age 18 from Chalfont, PA

Iron is often used to build weapons and knives. What is one key characteristic these tools have in common? They are sharp. But you can’t sharpen an iron spear with just anything. You need something as hard as the iron, or else the blade will stay dull forever. Every day, you are surrounded by other people: friends, teachers, parents, siblings, mentors, and more. And whether you realize it or not, all of these people impact your life and who you are becoming. Many of your decisions and actions are probably influenced by these people; maybe your parents set a curfew for you, or maybe your friends help you choose what to wear, or where to go. But their influence doesn’t stop there. Your peers are some of the most important driving forces in helping you grow your faith. We are not created to go through life alone. In fact, we are created to live in a community. The friends and mentors you have, in the same way that iron sharpens iron, will help you ‘sharpen’ your faith and grow closer to God. Whether you’re asking your mentors questions about God and the Bible, or your friends are holding you accountable, surrounding yourself with people who are following Jesus will help you love God and your neighbors more.

Today, send a thank you message to someone who helps you grow in your faith, or ask God to help you find that kind of person to have in your life.