GRIT: Intense FellowshipSample

Friendships that Sharpen

Proverbs 27:17 "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."

The people closest to you shape your life more than you realize. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that true friendship isn't just about comfort—it's about growth. Real friends make you better. They challenge, hold you accountable, and help you stay on course.

But that only happens when friendship is intentional. Surface-level relationships won't sharpen you. You need brothers who speak truth in love, encourage your faith, and walk you through the highs and lows.

Too many men isolate when life gets hard. They withdraw, thinking it's a sign of strength. But isolation leads to vulnerability. God designed us for connection—with Him and with others. You don't need an audience, but a circle of men who help you become more like Christ.

Start by asking: Who are the people shaping me? Are they sharpening my walk with God, or dulling my edge? Then ask a deeper question: Who am I sharpening? Friendship is mutual. It's about pouring into others and allowing others to pour into you.

This kind of friendship requires vulnerability, time, and trust. But it's worth it. It's how God strengthens you, encourages you, and keeps you grounded.

If you don't have those friendships right now, start building them. Join a men's group. Reach out. Open up. The risk of vulnerability is worth the reward of growth.

Challenge: Reach out to one man in your life who challenges you spiritually. Set a time to meet, encourage each other, and speak truth.

Prayer: God, thank You for the gift of friendship. Please help me build and maintain relationships that sharpen my faith and character. Give me the courage to be both challenged and encouraging. Amen.