The concept of sharpening, as drawn from Proverbs 27:17, "As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend," evokes a vivid imagery of tools and blades being honed to maintain their effectiveness. When considering "As iron sharpens iron," various images come to mind, such as a metal chisel on a grinding stone, a farming tool being prepared, a pocketknife on a leather strap, a sword crafted by a blacksmith, or a kitchen knife being kept ready for use. The Hebrew word for iron, "barzel," refers to iron as a cutting material, extending to any iron implement, often alloyed with carbon to form steel, hard enough to hold an edge and be sharpened. Sharpening iron or steel involves several methods, such as using a metal file to remove material and expose the edge, followed by a whetstone to refine it, and finally polishing with fine-grit sandpaper. Alternatives include automatic sharpeners with diamond-based abrasives or simple abrasive ceramic tools run along the blade. Steel knife sharpeners, or honing rods, often seen in use during meal preparations, do not technically sharpen but rather realign the blade's edge by pushing it back to the center. True sharpening, however, removes metal to create a new, sharp edge, distinct from honing which merely reforms the existing one. The Hebrew word for sharpens, "cha?dad," meaning to be or make sharp or severe, enriches the understanding of this process. Used sparingly in Scripture, it conveys both the act of sharpening and a sense of fierceness, as seen in descriptions of preparing a sword for war. This deeper insight into sharpening illustrates a process of refinement and preparation, paralleling how interactions with others can refine and enhance one's character or outlook.

The concept of 'Iron Sharpens Iron' from Proverbs 27:17 illustrates how we can sharpen the countenance of a friend. The sharpening process requires closeness or proximity; without contact, whether it is a knife against a honing rod or friends keeping in touch, nothing can be sharpened. This principle extends to our relationship with God, as our proximity to Him significantly affects how we are developed into His image. Just as God's presence changed Moses' countenance, causing his face to glow, our contact with God shapes and revitalizes us, preparing us for what lies ahead. Like any tool, we and our brethren will sometimes need our countenances adjusted and at other times, a more thorough sharpening to restore and polish our edge, lifting our countenance for every good work. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us of the impact our interactions have within our families, circle of friends, and God's church, underscoring our responsibilities in these relationships.