Encouragers, Sharpeners, and Drainers

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17

Not all relationships carry the same weight. Some people lift us higher, others challenge us to grow, and some quietly drain our energy. Recognizing who belongs in each category is essential if we want our talent to truly take flight.

Three Types of People in Your Circle

1. Encouragers 🌱

Encouragers are those who speak life into you. They remind you of your gifts when you forget them. They cheer when you succeed and stand with you when you stumble. Their words are like water to a thirsty soul.

• Biblical wisdom: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
• Impact: Encouragers fuel your confidence and give you courage to pursue your God-given calling.

2. Sharpeners ⚒️

Sharpeners are different from encouragers. They don’t just tell you what you want to hear — they challenge you to stretch. They hold you accountable, offer constructive criticism, and call out blind spots.

• Biblical wisdom: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17)
• Impact: Sharpeners refine your character, strengthen your wisdom, and help you grow beyond your comfort zone.

3. Drainers 🪫

Drainers are those who consistently deplete your energy. They may discourage your dreams, pull you off track, or sow doubt. Over time, spending too much time here makes it difficult for your talent to thrive.

• Biblical warning: “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)
• Impact: Drainers don’t just steal energy — they often distort your focus and confidence.

Why This Matters

The people you allow close will shape:

• Your mindset: Encouragers and sharpeners lift your thoughts; drainers shrink them.
• Your habits: You adopt the rhythms and attitudes of those around you.
• Your destiny: Over time, your circle influences your path more than you realize.

A Practical Invitation for This Week

1. Identify: Who are the encouragers, sharpeners, and drainers in your life?
2. Invest: Lean into encouragers and sharpeners. Nurture those bonds with time and gratitude.
3. Set boundaries: Limit the access that drainers have to your energy. Love them, but don’t let them define your direction.

Closing Thought

Your circle is not accidental — it’s a choice. Encouragers give you courage. Sharpeners refine your edge. Drainers hold you back.

Choose wisely, because the people closest to you will either help your talent soar or keep it grounded.

Next in our series “Relationships That Build You Up”: we’ll look at the wisdom of walking with the wise — and why wisdom is contagious.