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(Proverbs 27:17) "Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend [to show rage or worthy purpose]."

I'm sure most of us have lived out this Scriptural Truth at some point. (Apparently, I still need it done monthly)!

For those who need help understanding the metaphor, it's based on the method of sharpening steel or iron using a similar piece of metal. Rough spots are smoothed off both pieces when the two scrape against each other.

Scripture uses this allegory to describe how the Lord uses the interactions of people we might not like or agree with to refine 'our' rough spots by 'rubbing us up the wrong way!'

Why do we think it's the 'wrong way?' Because any refining (telling-off, reprimand, rebuke, reproof, admonishment, admonition, reproach, reproval, scolding, upbraiding, castigation, lecture, criticism, censure, etc.) ultimately leads to the surfacing of our pride, which in turn produces sulking (or worse).

My aim is to become like the second person in Proverbs (8:9): Do not correct a scoffer [who foolishly ridicules and takes no responsibility for his error] or he will hate you; correct a wise man [who learns from his error], and he will love you.

Holy Spirit, please touch the heart of whoever is reading this. Draw them into Your presence and show them that You continue to speak and answer prayers today. Amen. 

Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve those who are sick amongst us—such as Barbara and Ian fighting cancer. We also pray for a quick and complete healing for Keiron, Jay and Liliana. Please grant your healing power to those who minister to all the sick among us so they may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in your loving care. We pray this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.