In a godly friendship we incorporate biblical fellowship and edifying words into our interactions with another. We go beyond encouraging and affirming one another in Christ which has a limited impact on our maturity. Since our top priority is pleasing God, we go further and consciously help each other to become like Christ. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Prov. 27:17, NIV).
Scripture instructs us to “Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives” (Col. 3:16, NLT). A “soul friend” is an advanced godly relationship in which two people are highly committed to being open to the influence and direction of each other in order to become like Christ. They practice quality biblical fellowship and develop interdependence; they are spiritual counselors for each other. Since we are secure in the friendship, we are free to direct each other to die to self. We gently point out faults or errors and point them to abiding in Christ. We speak the “truth in love” so that we “grow up in . . . Christ” (Eph. 4:15, ESV).
We hope you consider developing a godly relationship that will lead you to greater maturity. Below is a meditation to help you with that. You can do it in as little as three minutes.
Absorb Scripture. Read Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” How does this relate to loving God? Ruminate on the verse and make it part of yourself.
Feelings and Emotions Reflection. Ask yourself: What feelings or emotions (for example, peace, joy, gratefulness, doubt, fear, pain, resistance), if any, did I experience during or after absorbing this passage? Why was I feeling this way?
Truth Commitment. Invite God to reveal your heart then ask yourself: Have I fully embraced the truth that it is important for others to “sharpen” me? If not, ask yourself: Why haven’t I been fully embracing this truth? How can I overcome any resistance I have?
Virtue & Action Commitment. Invite God to reveal your heart then ask yourself: How much do I desire and pursue relationships of mutual “sharpening”? Do I need to be more intentional about pursuing this? If you are not pursuing this, then ask: Why do I hesitate to do this? How can I overcome my resistance?
Reception (Contemplation.) Ask God to show you anything that you have not fully embraced as well as anything else he desires to show you. Sit with God with a quiet and open heart for at least 60 seconds.
