Shaped and Sharpened

Proverbs 27:17

What is it that influences you the most? What is that one thing that shapes and molds your life? What is it that defines you? What do you want to be like 20 years from now? What do you want your purpose in life to be?

We all remember as children saying “When I grow up I want to be a…” you fill in the blank. I don’t think any of us ever said “When I grow up I want to be perfect, moral, or a even a Christian.” I definitely didn’t want to grow up and be a preacher, but I can truly say God has great sense of humor.

Our scripture tells us that “Iron sharpens iron.” Whether we want to admit it or not there have been people who have had strong influences on our lives. Some for good and unfortunately some for bad. We all have or have had those special people that we call pastor, coach, or mentor that have help make us the men and woman we are. They have helped shape our beliefs and convictions and we are appreciative for these people. They are the tools that God uses to shape and fashion us.

But the one person that God truly intends to use to make us disciples is none other than Jesus. He became human to not only tell us but show us what it means to be a man and woman. He showed us that a life of obedience can be one of suffering, but yet one that is rewarding and ultimately victorious. In one place he said “Take my yoke upon me and learn of me.” (Matthew 11:28) Paul even said that it is God’s will that we be “conformed to the image of his (Gods) son.” (Romans 8:29)

How does he do this? By way of the Bible and the Holy Spirit. The same word and Spirit that he used in making the old creation is the same word and Spirit that he uses in the new creation. When we walk with him daily in prayer and practice his disciplines in our life, like a blacksmith, he is hammering, shaping, and firing us to conform us to his will and make us more like Jesus.

When we allow God to use his tools to shape and sharpen us then you and I can be a tool in his hand to shape and sharpen others.

Let us walk near to him so we may be sharp. In times like these we need a good edge more now than ever!

Pastor Robby