In the Bible it says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). This is an awesome verse that carries resounding implications within the warrior tradition. However, in addition to being sharpened and held accountable by another person, it is also important to remember that Scripture teaches God alone is our ULTIMATE source of strength, tempering, forging, and sharpening.
In my bestselling book, “The Warrior and The Monk,” I share an ancient warrior-tradition fable about the “Wolf of Courage.” The principle of the story is that within our consciousness, there is always a battle-taking place between the “Courage Wolf” and the “Fear Wolf.” Because the battle rages within our individual consciousness, we retain influence over which “Wolf” will prevail, and the outcome is ultimately determined by the quality of our thinking.
If you’re having trouble winning the battle, consider that the Word of God is “useful for correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:1). God designed you in His image, and therefore the Spirit dwelling within you is not weak, timid, anxious, or in any manner congruent with the “Fear Wolf.”
Rather, the Holy Spirit within you is a source of “power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7) that can be your greatest source of strength throughout the various challenges and seasons of your life.
It’s time to start feeding the “Wolf of Courage” by wielding the “Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God” (Ephesians 6:17).
You can do it!