Today’s Scripture Reading: Proverbs 27
This question is a giving when it gets to exam time, especially if the said test involves multiple choice and shading answer sheets. Unfortunately, we don’t ask this question in our lives, the biggest test/exam of all.
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens [and influences] another [through discussion].” ~ Proverbs 27:17 (AMP) #Bible
Beloved, the people we keep around us have a big role in determining how effective we will become in life. We will either move fast or slow due to their push or pull. This might be hard to swallow but hear me out: we can never be any much different from our closest friends.
This is because, from the verse above, the influence comes through discussion. So you are almost just like them, in their belief system, the way they think and talk, what they prioritize, their philosophy of life, etc.
Close friendship with Jesus for just about 3 years, rubbed on noticeable traits on the Apostles (Acts 4:13).
Let’s be mindful who we allow into our lives and who we have discussions with. Eve was influenced after a discussion with a snake.
- A Judas may betray you and an Absalom may try to plot your downfall and overthrow you.
- A King Saul may want to take away your life before you get to your throne and
- A Delilah may want to seduce you, deceive you, take away your strength and render you powerless.
Basically, we can be digging our own grave with some friends we keep (Psalm 1).
For us to reach where God has destined for us to be, we must filter our close friendships (without apology). Not everyone around us can help us get to our destination.
Again, I repeat, some may plot to destroy us, some will be envious of God’s grace on our life and others may be detractors or critics of the narrow path we choose in Christ. Beware!
Just like iron sharpens iron, move with people who can bring the best out of you. Your friendships may influence you even more than your parents, pastors, mentors, etc. Choose wisely.
- David had an ‘iron’ friend in Jonathan. Jonathan loved and protected David at the risk of his own life and crown. David remained loyal even after Jonathan died, and repaid this love kindness to his family. A friendship marked by loyalty, selfless sacrifice, and a belief in God’s promises.
- Ruth and Naomi had a beautiful and blessed iron relationship: Ruth saved Naomi from bitterness and grief by her sacrificial love and hardwork; and Naomi guided Ruth into a secure Godly marriage.
- Paul had Barnabas (Son of Encouragement) who took him in, and even introduced him to the Apostles when other believers were afraid of Paul’s radical conversion. Today we speak of the great Apostle Paul.
- When young Mary was overwhelmed by the miraculous calling of carrying the Messiah, she ran to Elizabeth, who didn’t doubt or judge her. Instead, she was filled with the Holy Spirit and confirmed God’s word to Mary, crying out, “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
- Daniel had friends who wouldn’t also compromise on their walk with God. These same friends were his prayer partners when push came to shove (Daniel 2:17-19).
I don’t know about you, but I need a sharpener or two! Pray that grace will lead you to more ‘iron’ friendships and that you’ll be an ‘iron’ friend to others.
Hey, you're blessed and highly favoured and dearly loved!
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