Friends, not Words

S ~ As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Proverbs 27:17

O ~ This verse has long been referenced for men to say strong words to other men, undoubtedly because of the blacksmith image of sharpening and hammering. Clashing points bring sharpness, restoring what has been dulled from use or rusted from neglect.

A ~ I haven't look at this verse in context, but as a stand alone verse, it does not explicitly state it is referring to the use of words. A friend sharpens a friend. This may have more to do with friendship and relationship, than in does with speaking strong words. If I want there to be sharpness about my edge...I need to have friends. Without friends, life can be dull and ineffective. A dull axe requires much strength, but wisdom comes from taking the time to sharpen the axe. Wisdom come from a few good friends.

P ~ Lord, thank you for my friends. Thank you for Chris and Brian and Scott, and Jen. And for Derek, and Tom, and Dan. Thank you for Jaysen and Brad and Matt. Thank you for Mark and Shawn and Grady. So many to mention. So many left unmentioned, So many friends. May I be sharper.