“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17) Who have you been associating with over the past few weeks or months that has sharpened you spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially? A recent trip to the Smokey Mountains presented this subject to me; as a matter of fact, it was an in-your-face presentation! Up close and personal presentation!
I will tell you straight up – I was sharpened! My flesh was in great pain. My emotions and attitudes were called to attention. Change was on the horizon!
Imagine a dull knife blade being laid on the grinding stone to be sharpened by the blade smith. Although the metal resists, the pressure of the blade against the stone creates a smooth, razor sharp edge removing all the dull edges. A knife sharpener doesn’t always move quickly, but applies steady, consistent pressure. To sharpen a good quality steel knife that is new, he uses a high quality, diamond, knife sharpening steel. A few strokes every time before being used and it will keep the knife razor sharp.
It is the same principle when you position yourself to be sharpened by a friend. Find that “diamond” friend who will speak high quality words into your life so you’ll be sharpened to a razor sharp edge.
If the knife is very dull, a carpenter’s sharpening flat stone is very good at reviving the knife’s edge. Just be aware that the angle you sharpen a knife at is crucial. It’s best to take dull knives to a professional sharpener, and then maintain them as noted above. There will be times in our life when we get dull. As painful as it may be at the moment, present yourself you to your “diamond” friend and allow their words to sharpen you. At times, it may not be the words you want to hear; however, a “diamond” friend will present those hard words to turn dull edges into razors sharp tools.
Contrary to what some people believe, sharp knives cut people far less than blunt knives. When a knife is sharp, less pressure is used to cut. Care for your knives and they will last a lifetime. How fitting for this subject. When you stay sharpen by the Word of God and the relationships you cultivate, you don’t hurt other people and you can help others become sharp. The sharper you are, the less pressure you have to withstand.
Take time to hang out with those people who will sharpen you and help you become a better person.