NearnessNäide

The wisdom of Proverbs 27:17 lies in its simplicity—growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Just as iron blades are honed through direct contact, so too are people shaped through meaningful interaction. Real sharpening isn’t always comfortable. It may come through challenge, correction, or even conflict. But when rooted in love, it transforms us.

We see this in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV): “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” True community is more than companionship; it’s spiritual collaboration. Community holds us accountable, lifts us up, and pushes us forward when we would otherwise stall.

Hebrews 10:24 (ESV) says: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” Stirring isn’t passive; it’s intentional. Sometimes it means speaking hard truths, sometimes it's simply showing up consistently. Either way, sharpening happens through shared pursuit of godliness.

Who sharpens you? And more importantly, who are you sharpening?

We are not called to form each other to our preferences, but to Christ. That kind of sharpening requires grace, humility, and presence. Avoiding friction might keep relationships smooth, but it also leaves edges dull.

Today, ponder this: Who are the people in your life that sharpen your faith? Reach out to them—or to someone who can sharpen your faith—and ask how you can pray for, or encourage them today.