Proverbs 27:17

What Does Proverbs 27:17 Mean?

In Bible times, iron weapons and tools had to be sharpened regularly to stay useful. You’d rub two iron pieces together to create a sharper edge. Solomon uses that picture to describe good friendships – sometimes friends challenge us, tell us hard truths, or push us to grow. That can feel uncomfortable, but it’s how we become better people. A good friend doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear – they help you become who God made you to be!

Hero Challenge

Think about your closest friends. Do they help you grow and become better, or do they pull you away from what’s right? This week, be intentional about being an “iron friend” to someone – encourage them, speak truth kindly, and cheer them on in their faith. And thank God for any friend who has made you sharper!

Did You Know?

Solomon wrote most of the book of Proverbs, and he was known as the wisest man who ever lived. He understood that wise counsel and honest friendship are rare gifts. In fact, the Bible shows us many powerful friendships – like David and Jonathan, who helped each other be brave and stay close to God. The friendships we choose shape who we become!

Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question

What do good friends do for each other? Can you name one thing a good friend does that helps you?

Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question

Have you ever had a friend tell you something that was hard to hear but helped you in the end? What happened?

Ages 10-13: Champion Question

It takes courage to be the kind of friend who speaks truth. How do you balance being honest with being kind? What does a “sharpening friendship” actually look like in your day-to-day life?