Building Each Other Up

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

Relationships play a significant role in shaping who we are. Proverbs 27:17 highlights the power of community and the influence we have on one another. Just as iron sharpens iron, we are called to strengthen, encourage, and challenge those around us to grow in faith and character.

Think about the people in your life. Are there friends or mentors who encourage you to walk closer with God? Likewise, do you intentionally invest in others to help them grow? God did not create us to walk this journey alone—He designed us to live in community where we sharpen one another through love, accountability, and truth.

Sharpening, however, is not always a smooth process. Just as metal-on-metal creates friction to refine the blade, relationships can involve challenges and honest conversations.

True spiritual growth often comes when we allow others to speak truth into our lives, even when it is uncomfortable. In the same way, when we lovingly challenge and uplift others, we become instruments of God's refining work.

Consider how Jesus walked with His disciples. He taught them, corrected them, and encouraged them to live according to God's will. In turn, the disciples sharpened one another and carried the message of the Gospel forward. This is the beauty of Christian community—we are not just recipients of growth, but also agents of growth in the lives of others.

If you want to be sharpened, surround yourself with people who point you to Christ. Seek relationships where you can be honest about your struggles and celebrate your victories.

Be that person for others as well—someone who listens, prays, and speaks truth in love. As you invest in these relationships, you will find yourself growing stronger and more Christ-like.