As Iron Sharpens Iron

Proverbs 27:17 writes
"As iron sharpens iron,
   so one person sharpens another."

Purpose. The word 'sharpens' comes from the word 'sharp'. What comes to your mind when you think of the word 'sharp'? It tells me of something dangerous. Likely during the days when this verse Proverbs 27:17 was written, it was the days where tools and weapons were forged with fire and brimstone. What is the goal, purpose and desire of this sharpening process? Tools were forged for daily use while weapons were sharpened for the purpose of war; used for both defensive and offensive times.

Power. The process of sharpening might be painful on the inset, but it is the needed process. In times of war, when our weapons are not sharpened, they become like toys children play with. It does not injure as much. When the weapons are sharpened enough, they become most effective and lethal in the hands of the beholder. From pain to power is a needed perspective when sharpening is concerned.

People. When God made mankind, we were made for glory and honor. When they rebelled and went their own way, that glory dulled. Like a weapon that has lost its sharpness, is a man who left the presence of God. But God loves people; each of us, enough to send Jesus his one and only Son to die on the cruel cross, to pay for the penalty of sins committed by mankind.

Process. That is one of the reasons why the process of sharpening is not easy. It is hard. It is very hard work. Sharpening a person is like sharpening a weapon. It takes lots of work. It takes lots of hard work. So it is one work that should not be given up, with the end in mind - glory, honor, greatness, readiness for battle and for the work of God and purposes God intended for each person.

Partners. There will be certain times of discouragement and disheartening moments. This is for sure. When you are tired and exhausted from the battle or the process of sharpening, anyone can easily fall down. You and all of us can get burnt out from the fight. When you find yourself questioning if the fight is worth it or not, you must speak hard, sharpening and sparkling words to yourself - 'Stand Together!' You are not alone. You can stretch out your hands and call to God. You must call together the fellowship of Sharpeners.