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As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Proverbs 27:17

Wouldn't it be great if you never had to disagree with your family and friends ever again? Many of us would love to have conflict-free relationships. But if you desire conflict-free relationships, you may miss out on one of the greatest benefits of relationships. Conflict leads to growth in the right situation, and it serves as a sharpener.

When two people in a relationship are equally yoked, they have the potential to sharpen each other. Good conflict is sharpening iron in our relationships. But that sharpening cannot occur without some friction. The friction of good conflict helps to build character and challenges us to step outside of our own perspectives.

However, unhealthy relationships are characterized by too much friction. Bad conflict causes too much friction and can cause permanent damage. It can lead to one or both people involved getting torn down. Unhealthy relationships are also characterized by no friction at all. This is usually an indication that no one wants to take the time to sharpen either and would rather sweep conflict under the rug of the relationship.

Do your relationships have the right amount of friction? You can answer this question by evaluating your relationships. If you are being sharpened and sharpening others, chances are that you have the right amount of friction. God is all about balance. And if we want our relationships to be balanced, we shouldn't run from conflict.

A Prayer for Today
Lord, conflict can be tough to handle at times but I know that it is necessary for healthy relationships. Help me to sharpen others lovingly and receive sharpening respectfully. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ed Young Ministries
P.O. Box 619005
Dallas, TX 75261-9005

www.edyoung.com