Sharp or Dull?
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17 NIV)
Devotional Thought - Does life ever lack luster? Have there been times when you wanted more? Are you ready for a spark to ignite a fire inside of you? This may lead you to wonder, “Who am I spending time with and how are we impacting one another?”
There is a quote by Jim Rohn that says, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." This is not always true, but think about it from a spiritual context. If you are spending the majority of your time with those that share your values and beliefs, then you are much more likely to stay focused on what is important to you.
Our friends have the ability to sharpen us and bring great joy to our lives. They also can drag us down and squash our excitement for God.
Spending significant time with those who don't prioritize Christ or wise choices can negatively influence your own values. For example, after my conversion, God helped me overcome using foul language. However, years later, spending time with a friend who still used such language caused those words to resurface in my thoughts. This experience taught me the importance of acknowledging my weaknesses and balancing time between Christian and non-Christian friends. We are all susceptible to negative influences.
As you go about your day, consider who you are closest to and how they impact your life. Are you spending time with those that help you to be the very best version of yourself or do you find that your best friends bring out the worst in you?
Prayer - Lord, I want to look and sound like You. Please help me to be intentional by creating friendships with others that will help me reflect Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Follow Up Activity - Connect with a Christian friend this week for coffee or a meal. Prepare questions to discuss that will encourage your faith growth. If you lack such a friend, ask the Lord to bring one into your life.
