Sharpen your axe!

“Since a dull axe requires great strength, sharpen the blade. That's the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed." Ecc. 10:10 (NLT)

If you have been laboring tirelessly with little to show for it, perhaps it is time to sharpen your axe. Ecclesiastes 10:10 reminds us that "a dull axe requires great strength, but wisdom helps you succeed." Just as a lumberjack must pause to sharpen his blade for efficiency, so must we invest in knowledge, training, and personal development to yield better results. A retreat, a short course, or mentorship could be the sharpening you need to enhance your skills and effectiveness. Jesus emphasized this principle in Matthew 13:52, likening a well-instructed scribe to a wise householder who brings forth both old and new treasures—wisdom from past experience and fresh insights for future success.

If you are struggling to accomplish your goals, it may be due to a lack of critical knowledge. Elisha understood this when he sought a double portion of Elijah’s spirit (2 Kings 2:10); the key was not just desire but knowing the conditions to meet. Likewise, you must identify the right questions to ask and where to find the answers. Books hold answers, mentorship provides direction, and wisdom illuminates the path to success. As you seek knowledge and apply wisdom, may you experience an increase on every side, in Jesus’ name.

Prophetic word: The Lord is calling you to a season of sharpening and refinement. You have labored, and though your strength has carried you this far, divine wisdom will take you further. This is a time to seek knowledge, embrace new strategies, and position yourself for greater impact. Just as Elisha received a double portion after discerning the right steps, so shall you step into a new dimension of favor, efficiency, and breakthrough. The Lord says, "I am releasing fresh oil upon you—wisdom that will multiply your results and distinguish you among men. Doors that seemed closed will open as you sharpen yourself in through fellowship with me and meditation on my Word."

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You for the wisdom that leads to success. I ask for divine insight and understanding to sharpen my gifts, my skills, and my purpose. Where I have struggled in my strength, let Your wisdom take over. Open my eyes to new opportunities, divine connections, and knowledge that will accelerate my destiny. I receive the grace to seek, learn, and apply the right strategies for greater impact. Lord, anoint my mind, sharpen my spirit, and cause me to rise above limitations. Let my efforts be fruitful, and may I increase on every side. In Jesus’ name, Amen.