Through the Bible: ProverbsSample

Sharpened?

Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.

Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)

Some people describe human relationships using the "hedgehog dilemma" metaphor.  Seeking to share body heat during cold weather, they could injure others with their sharp spikes if they get too close. But if they are too far apart it will become too cold so they can only learn to keep a “safe distance”.

Just as we face different situations and people in life, there are times when we get into conflicts hurting others, getting hurt in the process. Sometimes it might even make one wanting to run away from the situation or the person altogether. However, a sword needs to be sharpened in order to become more effective in the hands of the master.  When we face difficult situations especially with our friends and families, could it be the Lord using the opportunity to sharpen us? We might be praying for more grace, more patience to be more Christ-like – isn’t it true that we can only see the prayer being answered through how we eventually managed to walk through those difficult situations with His guidance and empowerment?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for sending different people to sharpen us, enabling us to grow to be more like You such that we can become a greater blessing to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.