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

We become like the people we spend time with. This is true in every area of life, but it’s especially true in our spiritual lives. The relationships we choose will either sharpen us or dull us spiritually.

The imagery of iron sharpening iron is powerful because it requires friction. A blade doesn’t get sharper by being stored in a drawer; it gets sharper by being rubbed against something harder than itself. In the same way, we don’t grow spiritually by avoiding challenging relationships; we grow by engaging with people who will lovingly challenge us to become more like Christ.

This kind of sharpening happens when believers are committed to each other’s spiritual growth. It’s the friend who asks tough questions about your character. It’s the mentor who challenges you to step out of your comfort zone. It’s the accountability partner who won’t let you make excuses for destructive behavior. It’s the community that celebrates your victories and supports you through your failures.

But here’s the key: both pieces of iron become sharper in the process. You can’t sharpen someone else without being sharpened yourself. When you invest in others’ spiritual growth, when you speak truth in love, when you offer encouragement and accountability, you’re not just helping them-you’re growing too.

Evaluate your closest relationships. Are they sharpening you spiritually or dulling your edge? Seek out relationships with people who will challenge you to grow, and be willing to be that kind of friend to others. Join a small group, find a mentor, or become an accountability partner with someone who shares your commitment to spiritual growth.

Lord, thank You for the gift of relationships that help me grow. Bring people into my life who will sharpen me spiritually, and help me to be that kind of friend to others. Give me the courage to speak truth in love and the humility to receive correction when I need it. Make our fellowship a source of spiritual growth for everyone involved. In Jesus’ name, Amen.