Iron sharpens iron

“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

Proverbs 27:17

Iron sharpens iron is an expression deriving from Proverbs emphasizing the importance of mentoring and helping others because it makes ourselves better in the process. This is an analogy about the actual process used to sharpen knives and woodworking tools, where an abrasive surface is rubbed against a hardened steel to create a sharp edge.

We all need a support system. When we’re surrounded with godly people, they encourage and motivate us to become the best version of ourselves. I know a true friend will see my rough edges and point them out in love. I remember when my first child was turning one, my Bible study group threw her a little party. As I was holding her to help blow out the candle, she spontaneously reached out and touched the flame. The sweet moment took a sudden turn south with tears as I yelled out, “crap” because I felt so bad that I had allowed my baby to get burned. My precious friend hosting quietly said to me, “Kim, you can find a better word.”

I just love the whole concept of this verse, taking something dull and turning it into a sharp useful tool. The process of iron sharpening iron generates friction which results in the reshaping of the edge and smoothing out the rough spots. Isn’t that exactly what we’re called to do for each other? When we’re called out by the ones in our circle, we’re being modified to be more Christ-like so we can be a tool to bring God glory.

Hebrews 10:24 is a beautiful reminder, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” A spur has sharp points used to motivate a horse to move so the idea here is even though it may sting a little when we’re corrected, it’s for the greater good. We’re continually being purified so we’ll be a living example of what a Christ follower looks like.