2616) We humans weren’t meant to live alone; to walk through this life with no other human interaction.

When situations happen, such as an extreme one like kidnapping, where someone is left alone, it can bring a difficulty on that person in unimaginable ways.

Proverbs 27:17 tells us we were not meant to remain alone; rather, we should help sharpen others. It reads, Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another. (ESV)

Having something sharpened takes precise work. There is a point where there is pressure and movement orchestrated to shave off rough or broken edges.

If you’re not careful, this sharpening can destroy. Hitting too hard. Using the wrong tool. Being distracted at the exact time. Stress in other areas can make your aim off. These can destroy someone, not sharpen.

For me, because I don’t always trust or have confidence in myself, I find this responsibility scary. I do not want to damage others.

In these times, I can go to God and ask for help and precision in my relationships with others. I yearn to sharpen and not destroy.