#AdaWisdomChallenge
READ Proverbs 5 (listen). WRITE out one verse and SHARE with someone.
Proverbs 5 is part of the lessons that open the book (Proverbs 1-9). It contains a lesson warning against adultery and folly. The lesson provides examples of the ramifications of straying outside your marriage and encourages the reader to find joy in their marriage.
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. Proverbs 27:17
Read: Proverbs 27:17
Listen: Proverbs 27
TODAY’S MESSAGE
King Solomon’s reign in Israel (970-930 BC) places him and the nation in the middle of the Iron Age (1200-600 BC). Following the Stone Age and Bronze Age, people during this period made tools and weapons from iron and steel.
As commander of the military and the builder of the temple and his palace, Solomon would have been keenly aware of how to make iron tools and weapons as sharp as possible. This process involves a blacksmith hammering the steel so that the edge stays thick. Stones are then used to grind the blade edge to make it sharp.
In much the same way, we allow others to wisely “hammer” and “grind” us when we’re open to their suggestions, ideas and criticisms. Because “sparks” will fly in the process, we need to keep in mind the end result—to be people better prepared to face life’s challenges in a God-honoring way.
Good friends “sharpen” us through encouragement, accountability and challenge. They sharpen areas in which we’ve become dull, lazy and disinterested. We need these friends to stay spiritually, emotionally and relationally sharp. We need sharpening relationships if we’re going to live as God calls us to live.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Identify who is “sharpening” you. If there is no one, take the next step towards placing someone (or a group of people) in your life. A great way to do this is to join a small group. No matter where you are in your spiritual journey—we have a group for you. Join a group today at adabible.org/groups.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
