BUILT TO BUILD OTHERS
As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.
Proverbs 27:17 (NLT)
Spiritual gifts aren’t trophies to display. They’re tools to use. God’s design has always been about community. He gives us gifts not so we can shine alone but so we can strengthen each other.
Proverbs 27:17 offers a vivid picture: iron sharpening iron. It implies friction, intention and purpose. Something powerful happens when we engage our spiritual gifts in relationships with others. We grow, and so do they. We become sharper, more useful and more aligned with God’s purpose.
Sometimes, using your gift will look like encouragement. Other times, it may mean offering wisdom, prayer or service behind the scenes. But no matter how visible or invisible your gift may feel, it has an impact. You were meant to share it.
In a culture that often says, Do what makes you happy, Scripture nudges us to ask, How can I help fulfill what God is doing in someone else’s life? Your gift is part of someone else's breakthrough, growth and healing. Be generous in sharing it with others. When we view our gifts through the lens of, How can I use this for someone else? instead of How can this gift benefit me? we begin to mature into our purpose.
APPLICATION: Think of one person who could use encouragement, support or help right now. Ask God to show you how your gift can build them up. Then follow through, whether it's a text, a coffee, a prayer or lending your time or skill. Small, faithful steps can have an eternal impact on the lives of others.
PRAYER: Lord, thank You for making me a part of something bigger than myself. Help me see the needs around me and respond with the gifts You’ve given. Use me to sharpen, uplift and support others. May my life be a tool in Your hands to build up the people You love. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?