As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.  Proverbs 27:17 NIV

A few Sundays ago, I stayed home from church with a feverish child. Our older kids went with my husband for worship; while they were gone, the sick baby took a nap. To make the most of my Sunday morning, I tuned in to araeasonforhope.net, a site that offers WELS audio sermons.
 I appreciated the sermon, but later on that day, started thinking about how much I value the chance God gives me most weeks to worship – and study – with other Christians. In Proverbs we’re reminded “as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” God puts other believers in my life for a reason: by studying together, we can grow in the Word. We might hear another thought that helps shed light on a difficult passage, or share experiences that deepen our understanding of a particular Bible message.
 As pastors’ wives, we’re often involved in various church activities. So much so, that it can be tough sometimes to think about adding one more study to our weekly to-do list, or go to an extra service during the week.
 God continually gives us opportunities to participate in these. And he promises that time spent with others in his Word is time well spent. He’ll use it to open our hearts, renew our souls, and encourage both our spirits and others. 

Ask The Lord
Lord, Forgive me for the times I neglect to make the most of the opportunities you provide to worship and study with others. Grant me a growing eagerness to study your Word with fellow believers, and help my faith to grow during those times. Amen.