Sharpening a knife makes it useful. In the same way, we’re sharpened to do the work of God more effectively and efficiently.

Every good cook knows a dull knife can be more dangerous than a sharp one.

Hi, I’m Lysa TerKeurst for Proverbs 31 Ministries. A dull blade can actually do a lot of damage because it’s harder to use. Not only does it require more force but it’s also harder to control. That’s why a dull blade can slice a finger quicker than a tomato.

A knife can’t sharpen itself. You need something else made of steel to make the blade sharp. It’s the same way with people. The Bible says: “You use iron to sharpen iron, and one friend sharpens another.” A wise friend can make us wiser. A loving friend can expand our capacity to love.

And, whether we’re sharpening a blade or ourselves, it’s always done for a purpose. Sharpening a knife makes it useful. In the same way, we’re sharpened in order to do the work of God more effectively and efficiently.