Proverbs 26-27: As Iron Sharpens Iron

Do you see a man wise in his own eyes?
There is more hope for a fool than for him.  - Proverbs 26-12 NIV

Solomon knew that we needed each other as well as God to keep us on the right path.  Our relationship with our friends and neighbors is crucial to leading a godly life. 

Let another praise you, and not your own mouth;
someone else, and not your own lips. - Prov. 27:2 NIV

Wounds from a friend can be trusted,
but an enemy multiplies kisses. - Prov. 27:6 NIV

Solomon knew that we can trust those close to us to help us grow more than we can trust ourselves.  If we are wise, we will choose friends who will be honest with us about both our strengths and our weaknesses.  We will rely on them for encouragement and correction.  In many instances, they can become the voice of God that we cannot, or refuse, to hear.  They can be the sharpening stone that helps to hone us into perfection.

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