The Power of Honest Friendships
Growing up, I enjoyed watching my dad work with iron as part of his trade; it was the coolest thing ever for a young boy. I still remember the sparks flying when he sharpened tools or cut metal. It was loud, hot, and sometimes even violent—nothing about the process was gentle. But the result was something stronger, sharper, and more useful.
Proverbs 27:17 tells us: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” At first glance, this sounds noble and poetic, but if we stop and think about the imagery, it’s clear this process isn’t always comfortable. Iron sharpening iron involves friction, heat, and pressure. And the same is true for meaningful relationships in our lives.
Do You Have Friends Who Sharpen You?
Real friends don’t just tell you what you want to hear. They challenge you, hold you accountable, and point you toward growth—even when it’s uncomfortable. Their words may sting, their advice may cause friction, but their intentions are rooted in love. These are the people God uses to shape us into who we’re called to be.
But here’s the catch: sharpening doesn’t happen by accident. It requires vulnerability, humility, and a willingness to engage in honest, sometimes difficult conversations. Many of us avoid this kind of sharpening because it feels easier to surround ourselves with people who agree with us or who won’t challenge us. But in doing so, we miss out on the growth that God wants to bring into our lives.
Are You Willing to Be Sharpened?
Think about the relationships in your life:
- Do you have friends who are willing to challenge you?
- Are you open to their feedback, even when it’s hard to hear?
- Do you dismiss constructive criticism or lean into it with gratitude?
Sharpening isn’t easy, but it’s necessary. Without it, we risk becoming dull—ineffective in our relationships, our work, and our walk with God. As much as it may hurt in the moment, the discomfort of being sharpened is far better than remaining dull and stagnant.
How to Be the Friend Who Sharpens
Just as we need people to sharpen us, we’re called to do the same for others. Being a sharpening friend means:
- Speaking the Truth in Love
Sharpening isn’t about being harsh or critical. It’s about lovingly pointing out areas for growth while encouraging the good you already see in someone’s life. Ephesians 4:15 reminds us to speak the truth in love, helping one another grow into maturity. - Being Present and Engaged
Real sharpening requires time and intentionality. Be the friend who shows up, listens, and cares enough to say what needs to be said. - Modeling Humility
No one sharpens others perfectly. Be willing to admit your own mistakes, ask for forgiveness, and learn alongside your friends.
The Blessing of Sharpening Relationships
When we embrace sharpening relationships, we reflect God’s design for community. He never intended for us to grow in isolation. We need each other to become the best versions of ourselves—to develop the character, strength, and wisdom required to fulfill His purposes.
If you have a friend who sharpens you, thank God for them. Pray for the humility to receive their input and the courage to apply it. And if you’re that friend for someone else, stay faithful in the role. It may not always be easy, but it’s one of the greatest gifts you can offer.
So, are you willing to let sparks fly? Will you allow the friction of sharpening to make you more effective and fruitful? And will you be that friend for someone else?
Reflection Verse:
“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)
#BeSharp #ChooseFriendsWisely #GrowthThroughChallenge