September 2025 - Sharpen. Strengthen.

"Spend time with people who bring out the best in you, not the stress in you." (Unknown)

"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27:17

Have you ever used a knife regularly without sharpening it? It's amazing how quickly it can become dull. People are the same way. When you are constantly associating and conversing with those of a different mindset it is easy to allow yourself to become lax and dull. When something becomes commonplace it no longer obtains regular examination. Hence the need for careful consideration when allowing someone to be a close friend. Choose your inner circle with great care. 

1. Values: The most important thing when considering those you spend time with is their values. As a believer of Jesus Christ, I do not want to spend all of my free time hanging out with an unbeliever. "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14) I still need to associate with them, witness to them, and be an example to them. However, if I choose to be close friends with them, eventually, I will become like them. "Birds of a feather flock together." (English Proverb) Choosing those of the same values ensures that I will become stronger in my reasons rather than losing sight of why I chose them in the first place.

2. Mental Strength: When wrestling with someone of a much lesser strength, it can be easy to become lax as they do not present enough challenge. On the other side, wrestling with someone of a much greater strength can cause you give up in defeat. So it is with mental wrestling: the goal should be to find someone who will present a challenge that will not discourage you, while still being strong enough to sharpen and refine you. Find a worthy adversary/friend.

3. Likeminded: Not identical, not opposite, similar. Find a friend who agrees with you, yet is not afraid to be different than you. Sparks are the side affect of sharpening. Differences in core beliefs destroys a friendship. Differences of opinion strengthens it. A good healthy discussion needs two sides. "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." (Hebrews 5:14) Find a friend who has the same values, yet is not afraid to have different opinions: a friend who will strengthen you.

Take some time this month and reevaluate who you have allowed into your inner circle: Some friends you may need to graciously step back from, while other's you may need to step towards. Then choose your workout buddies carefully, someone who will sharpen, not dull your senses. And finally, set aside some time to specifically invest in those friendships. 

"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." Proverbs 27:17