Sharpening and Spurring

In the late 1700s, two young British aristocrats were entering their political careers. One of them, William Pitt, had high political ambitions, but his friend, William Wilberforce, seemed to lack a clear sense of direction. Although a new believer in Christ, Wilberforce was a devout one and wanted to spend his life serving God – he just didn't know how to do it. Tradition has it that one day Pitt spoke with his friend Wilberforce under an oak tree and challenged him to take up the fight against Britain’s monstrous African slave trade. It was a gigantic – no, impossible – task, but Wilberforce followed his friend's suggestion. He had found his calling.

It would be a lifelong battle. For the rest of his life, Wilberforce fought discouragements such as ill health, the deaths of co-laborers and friends (including William Pitt), and countless political defeats over and over and over again. I can only imagine the sense of triumph he had when, on February 23, 1807, the vote was cast and his bill for the abolition of the slave trade was overwhelmingly passed! The entire House of Commons erupted into cheers for William Wilberforce and his tireless advocacy for those who had no voice.

But Wilberforce didn’t stop there. His friend William Pitt had started him on a journey that was now filled with all the passion Wilberforce could give to it. Now he set his sights on abolishing slavery itself. While no more slaves were being trafficked to Britain, there were still so many who were already slaves in Britain. Twenty-six more years of grueling schedules and sleepless nights would prove his commitment to his cause. All his hard work was rewarded, however, when slavery was finally abolished in Britain on July 26, 1833, only three days before Wilberforce died. Slavery was over in Britain due to the efforts of one man to live in obedience to God – and to the efforts of his friend who inspired him.

Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” As close Christian friends encourage and challenge each other, they are sharpening each other for work in God's kingdom. Spurring one another on to good works is one of the reasons we have friendships. Challenging your friends doesn't mean nagging them or making them feel inferior because they aren't following your suggestions. To truly spur your friend on, make note of their talents and kindly point out to them opportunities to make use of those talents. William Pitt saw Wilberforce's passion for Christ and justice and abilities in politics. “Did you see that they need a pre-school teacher for VBS? You’d be great at that!” is much more encouraging than “Why aren’t you using your gift for teaching in VBS this year?” Encourage them in what they're already doing, too. For example, “You’re always so kind to your younger brother. You are my example in how I should treat my siblings.” As you compliment your friends on what they are already doing, you will be encouraging them to keep doing it. Also, be sure you take to heart their challenges to you as well. After all, we all need some sharpening from time to time.