Sharpened by Faith - short uplifting scripture message of hope

Ever try to write with a dull pencil? Then you know how
frustrating it can be and unless it’s sharpened, it won’t be
nearly as useful for the purpose it was created. As a result,
the pencil sharpener, a simple tool yet an absolute necessity
for the benefit of the writer.

Similarly when our faith starts to become slightly dull or in need
of sharpening to increase its potential, it’s not uncommon to
encounter cutting remarks and situations from others to
refresh and refine our hope and trust in God’s Word.
Although it doesn't seem like it at the time, God uses such
circumstances to our benefit by peeling away the layers of our
heart that would otherwise hinder our spiritual growth, while at
the same time, revealing His power and love toward us. Not
wanting anyone to fail or come short of His expectations, He
intends for it to help us remain sharp, vibrant and
knowledgeable of His Word that we not fall complacent to the
things around us. It’s also a reminder that we must remain
vigilant and aware of the dangers that are ever-present
outside of His protective presence.

Just as we find it difficult to use a dull pencil long-term, so too
our faith. It’s an absolute necessity to keep our faith
sharpened that it becomes more effective to us, others, and by
all means to God.

Bible and Scriptures to Reference:
New King James Version

Hebrews 12 verse 11 Now no chastening seems to be joyful for
the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the
peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained
by it.

2 Peter 3 verse 9 The Lord is not slack concerning His promise,
as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not
willing that any should perish but that all should come to
repentance.