Iron Can Sharpen Iron

Proverbs 27:10–18
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When grief and tragedies come, it is far better to have a faithful friend than a member of your own family whose affections have been weakened by time and distan­ce (v. 10). If someone has been a good friend of your father, you need to feel an obligation to helping him when he needs help. A disobedient and disrespectful son is a reproach to a father who has not trained him properly (v. 11). The actions of a child always reflect upon his parents. The father who can point to acts of wisdom in the life of his son will be able to answer critics who may accuse him of being an incompetent father. The child who leads a life of wisdom is evidence of good child rearing. 

Be cautious and hide when you see danger. Don’t be stupid and walk right into trouble (v. 12). Don’t loan money to a stranger unless you are given something to guarantee payment (v. 13). Timing and sensitivity to others who are sleeping is important (v. 14). The wrong time for the right action becomes a curse rather than a blessing. An example of this is waking a neighbor up early in the morning to praise him for something he has done. It matters not only what we say, but how, when, and why we say it.

Rain in Palestine soaks through the flat earthen roofs, and water leaks in droplets everywhere. It is truly an annoying situation and perhaps only equaled by the nagging of a contentious woman (v. 15). She is as unsteady as the wind and as slippery as oil; you can never tie her down (v. 16). Friends can sharpen one another even as one piece of metal can sharpen and brighten another through contact with each other (v. 17). Look after your master, and you will be praised (v. 18).

Application

Lord, help me to be sensitive as to what I say to others and how I say it as well as when I say it? I want to do a better job in this area.