dull

As I was shaving last night (yes, I do shave some of my face), I noticed that my razor was getting dull and my shave wasn't quite as smooth as I would like it to be.  I buy my razors in bulk online so I have plenty, but being frugal, I try and use each blade as long as I can before I throw it out.  Eventually, despite my cheapskate nature, I do throw out a dull blade because they just don't work as well as one that is sharp.

Proverbs 27:17 says "as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another"

I like to think of myself as one who helps others live out their faith well.  I try to encourage, challenge and speak life into people.  I know that in my own life there have been many who have helped me grow sharper through their regular and intentional effort to build me up, make me stronger and sharper.  Over time, our love for God can grow dull if we allow it to.  Just like a muscle that doesn't get used, our faith can weaken without use.
  
A friend, or pastor, or spouse who encourages you in your faith is a great gift from God.  They will make you sharper, stronger and better equipped in your life to go with God's strength.  Seek these people out, spend time with them...you will be better for it.

But, it's a double edged sword.  You need to be encouraging, challenging and helping others in their faith.  We each are sharpened and we each need to do the work of sharpening others.

Find a friend like that.  Be a friend like that.  Sharpen each other so you don't grow dull and useless.  

In Christ,
Pastor Scott McDermid