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.

As Proverbs 27:17 illustrates with iron sharpening iron, the process of sharpening a friend's countenance begins with closeness or proximity. Without contact, nothing can be sharpened. Our proximity to God also significantly affects how we are developed into His image, as His presence sharpens us. When God's face shines upon us, it signifies His favor, care, and blessing, lifting our countenance with approval and peace. Like a tool or blade, we and our brethren sometimes need our countenances realigned or thoroughly sharpened, removing excess, restoring the edge, and preparing us for every good work. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that our interactions and conversations with each other have a profound impact, emphasizing our responsibilities in relationships. Above all, contact with God shapes us into His image, revitalizing us to be sharp and ready for what lies ahead.