The 17th Century French philosopher Jean de La Bruyère once said, “it is chance that makes brothers, but hearts that make friends.” We don’t get to choose our family, but we do get to choose our friends. Having faithful friends, and being a faithful friend, is a mark of wisdom.

A popular phrase in our culture today is, “If you love me, you will affirm what I do.” This is the opposite of what true love and friendship is.

God uses our friends to shape us. A faithful friend challenges our blind spots, asks hard questions, and refuses to let us settle for mediocrity. At times that sharpening (“as iron sharpens iron”) feels like correction; at other times it feels like encouragement. Both are forms of grace. Without such relationships, we grow dull.

Sharpen your friends. And allow them to sharpen you.

1. Do I have a friend who sharpens me?

2. Do I receive constructive criticism well? Am I quick to make excuses for my behavior?