Day 88: Wisdom and Heartfelt Counsel

Day 88: Wisdom and Heartfelt Counsel

Scripture Reading: Proverbs 27:11–22

Key Verse:

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”

— Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)

Reflection

Leadership is not a solo journey. As much as we value independence, Scripture reminds us that wise counsel and mutual sharpening are essential to living well and leading well. This section of Proverbs encourages us to pursue wisdom, vigilance, and authentic relationships that strengthen us for life’s challenges.

Wise children bring joy to their leaders (v. 11).

When those under your care—whether children, employees, or disciples—walk in wisdom, it brings joy. There’s something deeply fulfilling about seeing someone you’ve invested in make wise, godly choices. That’s the reward of faithful leadership.

Be aware of dangers before they strike (v. 12).

A prudent person sees danger and hides; the simple walk on and suffer. Wisdom isn’t just about knowing right from wrong—it’s about learning to read the road ahead. Leaders must be discerning, not reactive. Proactive decisions today protect the people we lead tomorrow.

Don’t take unnecessary risks with others (vv. 13, 15-16).

Solomon warns against foolish collateral—putting yourself at risk for irresponsible people—and likens a quarrelsome spouse to a leaky roof in a storm. The point? Some relationships are not just draining—they’re dangerous. Leaders must learn to discern healthy boundaries and avoid entanglements that compromise their mission.

A good friend brings clarity and growth (v. 17).

This is one of the most quoted verses in Proverbs—and for good reason. Iron sharpens iron. We become sharper, wiser, and more effective through friction with faithful companions. Real friendship and godly counsel will challenge you, not coddle you. Every leader needs people who help them grow by saying, “You’re off course—let’s get back on track.”

Know your people and take care of them (v. 18).

Just as a farmer cares for his fig tree, a wise leader nurtures relationships, develops people, and builds trust. If you serve others well, honor will follow—not as a goal, but as a fruit.

A person’s heart reveals their true character (vv. 19–22).

As water reflects the face, a person’s heart reflects who they really are. And just like gold is refined in fire, a person’s integrity is proven through testing. Leaders aren’t defined by titles, but by who they are when the heat gets turned up.

This passage is a call to wisdom in our relationships, intentionality in our leadership, and humility in receiving counsel. Growth happens in community.

Word Study: Sharpen (חָדַד, chadad)

The Hebrew word chadad means “to make sharp or to hone.” It implies improving someone through challenge, correction, or constructive pressure.

For leaders, chadad is a reminder that growth often requires friction, and that real progress happens in the context of trusted relationships.

Challenge

Reflect on your inner circle.

1. Do you have people in your life who sharpen you, challenge you, and speak truth in love?

2. Are you offering that kind of counsel to someone else?

Write down one relationship you want to invest in more deeply this week—someone who helps you grow in wisdom.

Leadership in Action

Consider how wise counsel and honest feedback shape your leadership.

• Are you open to input, correction, and accountability?

• Are you mentoring others with the same wisdom and intentionality you’ve received?

Identify one area in your leadership where you’ve been resistant to feedback. This week, open that door. Ask for insight. Listen. Grow.

Prayer

Father, thank You for the people You’ve placed in my life to sharpen and strengthen me. Help me to welcome wise counsel, seek out godly friends, and be that kind of friend to others. Give me discernment to avoid foolish entanglements and humility to grow through correction. Make me a leader who listens, learns, and leads with wisdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.