All through college, it was my desire to be on the debate team. I would sit quietly, listen carefully and watch intently as one “team” would present their side of an issue. When finished, the other team would take “issue” with their position and attempt to dismantle their carefully stated, but opposing view. Although I saw the debate, I did not see the preparation. Both teams came to the “contest” thoroughly and carefully prepared. Both teams expected to win. Both teams were mentally alert and emotionally prepared. Both teams were ready to do battle with words, ideas, thoughts, and illustrations.
We saw the teams debate but we never saw what the teams did to prepare for the debate. Their preparation, however, is described by a proverb of Solomon: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”
Knives are first shaped and fashioned for their intended use. They are crafted for a special or specific purpose and then polished to give them beauty and elegance. The handle must “fit” properly and be smoothed to perfection for a sure grip. But the final step in the process is when they are sharpened by the knife-maker. The work is completed when one metal is used against another metal to sharpen the blade to perfection and precision.
No one knows everything about anything. We all have “mental” gaps and “space” in our brains for more knowledge, wisdom, and insight. Though the Bible is the best place to prepare for life, we must use other resources - books and friends - to “sharpen” our minds.
Prayer: Father, may we bring others into our lives who know You and who will challenge our thoughts and ideas so that we will become our best to do battle for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
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