Iron Sharpens Iron

“Iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17 (NIV)

In life, we often encounter moments of challenge, doubt, and darkness. It is during these times that our inner light, our hopes, dreams, and faith can become dim. The world around us might try to extinguish it, whether through negativity, disappointment, or the pressures of daily life. But God, in His wisdom, has given us people who are meant to walk alongside us, friends who can shield and protect that light.

True friends are like the sharp, steady blade that strengthens and refines us. They don’t just stand by us when life is easy; they are there on the occasion when the storm clouds roll in. They help guard our hearts and encourage us to continue shining. They may not always have the answers or the solutions, but their presence alone can remind us of God’s love and faithfulness. They are there!

Consider the people in your life who hold you accountable, speak life into your spirit, and gently challenge you to stay true to who God has called you to be. These are the friends who, like a shelter from the storm, protect the light within you from being snuffed out by discouragement. They are the ones who remind you to keep going when everything feels overwhelming. They pray for you, and most importantly, they also celebrate your victories no matter how small, because they understand the value of your light in this world.

The Light of Friendship: In the book of Ecclesiastes, we are reminded of the power of partnership:

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, NIV)

When we walk in friendship with those who value and protect our light, we are not only enriched but also uplifted. A friend who helps to lift you when you stumble is one who guards your inner light. They don’t let you stay in the darkness of discouragement; they lead you back into the brilliance of hope, joy, and faith.

*Take a moment today to reflect on your friendships. Reach out to someone who has been a light in your life and thank them for how they have helped you stay true to who you are. If you sense a friend is struggling, be the one who guards their light, offering encouragement and support. Call them or send them a text. We all love it when someone checks in. Be the type of friend that when your friends light is shining you say, “Man, that’s an amazing light.”

Lord, thank You for the friends You have placed in my life. I ask You to strengthen the tie between us and help us to protect each other’s light. May we be the kind of friends who sharpen one another, not just in good times but especially in hard ones. Let us always reflect Your love and grace to each other, so that we can be the of hope and light in this world. Help me to be the kind of friend who strengthens and guards the light in those I care for. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Jordan