As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. – (Proverbs 27:17)
Good company helps sharpen our character. As we spend time with one another sharing ideas, discussing insight, and challenging each other, God utilizes conversation to shape and refine us. The sharper we are, the more effective we become for His purpose in and through us. We ought not shy away from passionate discussions with safe people, but rather check our egos at the door and allow the Holy Spirit to do the speaking to our hearts and minds. May we all find friendships that help sharpen us further for God’s glory.
Iron meets iron,
and sparks, they may fly;
yet through the process,
impurities die.
The strengths, they rise up,
and soon they are seen;
as it is with us,
exchanges between.
We’re called to relate,
one to another;
bound as believers,
sisters and brothers.
May we safely speak,
and truly be heard;
sharpen each other,
speak truth from His word.
Let go of ego,
be set free from pride;
allow God to work,
He’ll refine inside.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You change us from the inside out to more clearly reflect who You are to the world. Thank You that You utilize each of us with one another, so that we may sharpen each other to be more effective for You. Forgive us for our egos that get in the way, or for our fears that keep us silent. Lead us to safe friendships where we can sharpen each other with the truth and insight You infuse into our hearts. May many come to know the gift of Your saving grace, as we go forth, sharpened by one another. Be glorified, Lord God. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.
Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. – 2 Corinthians 3:5
Revelations In Writing 
Wow, I love this post! I believe that this was exactly what I needed to hear today. I will be sharing this with my husband, father, and a family friend who have just started a men’s group at our church called “Iron Men” and this is the verse that they focus on. Thank you so much for allowing God to speak through you today. God bless you and your work here.
Excellent, as always! 🙂 Have a blessed day.
Shannon, I belonged to a men’s group for years called simply, 27/17. I now belong to a men’s group at our church and we focus as men of our church on the very things you talk about in this post. This is good stuff for women, but, in my view many churches need to cultivate men’s groups and Bible studies who echo your thoughts. Thanks for sharing. God bless.
So so good! Thank you and God bless!
Amen. Thank you for this lovely poem and prayer.