“If the axe is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength…” (Eccl. 10:10 NKJ).
Sometimes we have to make serious decisions that mean severing someone or something from our life. We painfully face the prospect of making unpleasant “cuts.” A long-time employee must be released. A major household move has to be undertaken. (Sometimes moving from one location to another is as disruptive to a family as chopping is to a tree.) A lifetime behavior pattern has to be changed drastically. All these “cuts” are hard, but they don’t have to be brutal or bloody.
This verse tells us that a sharp cutting edge makes the difference. Dullness means that our action done in the power of the flesh will not only require much strength, but will also be messier.
Jesus prayed all night before making His greatest decisions or changes. You and I rush in with a dull axe and chop away, but it is preferable to face major “cuts” with spiritual preparation. Fasting and prayer will sharpen the cutting edge of our faithful action.
Sometimes removal of persons from our association is like a surgeon cutting away an abscessed part of the body. With skill and speed he makes a deft incision, removes the poisonous mass, closes up the wound, and lets the healing process begin. The sharper the cutting edge, the quicker the recovery.
This verse urges “sharpness” in removing unpleasant elements that are keeping our “tree of life” from becoming as healthy and vigorous as it should be. Prayer “sharpens” us up for even the distasteful things we are called to do.
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.