Proverbs 27:17. “Iron sharpeneth iron: so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.”
SHARPER. The two met together, not by chance but deliberate intent. Each one aware of the issues; each with a different bent. More important than being together was a meeting of their minds – What needed to be discussed was serious; they need a solution to find.
Each friend trusted the other, over years each tested and proved Faithfulness and reliability were in them and the matter today behooved They act in concert knowing the outcome would be important – Especially because it required of them and others, real commitment.
Discussion led them each to gain from their friend new insights – And to face clearly the conclusion without waiting for hindsight. Each friend could see things different, and on the issue shed new light, Putting thoughts together as one brought answers to the present plight.
They had left their egos behind knowing the need would affect others. God has given to them the work of helping guide their sisters and brothers. All the facts were stated and all the alternate choices were covered. By disagreeing with thoughts, not the thinker, the truth they could discover.
Mental sharpness is not by chance when you share things with good people; The needs and objectives we face, especially with friends we know are equal, Challenge and stimulate thought with good intentions – not with evil; And conclusions are drawn with reason – not acted on by what we feel.
Each person needs a good friend who is not afraid to say to you What needs to be said in a way you know the things he says are true. But the friend doesn’t leave after saying his piece; he’s there to help you through To the right conclusion knowing God’s will – and your friend rejoices too.
“I thank you Father, for giving me the blessing of good friends. Just by being around them keeps me from stepping out of line and acting on independent thoughts that come from my own set of biases. Thank You for each of them, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”