As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
This "proverbial" truth reminds me of my Eagle Scout days out in the woods. There we faced crucial tasks of cutting firewood with an ax and carving campsite necessities with a knife. It didn't take long to realize, axes and knives get DULL through use. The proverb reminds us the same is true with people.
The truth is we all need one another for spiritual sharpening, don't we? Whether its the grind of routine that dulls us, or the acid of discouraging circumstance, or even the hard-hearted rebellion of sensuality, our souls get dull--just like knives. We lose the keen edge of spiritual interest whetted in us through constant contact with Christ.
I know as a long-time "dullard" the friction of fellowship often restores my spiritual edge. Others notice gaps in my spiritual armor, "blind spots" that I might miss. They challenge rationalizations that I cherish. Sparks fly when iron sharpens iron. Just ask the Regent Students who started, "The Sharpening." Every week they practice just this type of full-contact discipleship, not with knives or axes; but with sharp souls that seek to help shape one another for service to Christ.
Jesus said it plainly, "Are you still so dull?" (Matt. 15:16) Perhaps you need the friction of fellowship to sharpen up your soul. God bless you as you seek others to share your spiritual journey. Submitted by Dr. Richard Kidd, Director of Campus Ministries
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