Proverbs 27:21-23

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

²¹ As the refining pot for silver and the furnace for gold [bring forth all the impurities of the metal], so let a man be in his trial of praise [ridding himself of all that is base or insincere; for a man is judged by what he praises and of what he boasts].

²² Even though like grain you should pound a fool in a mortar with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him.

²³ Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and look well to your herds;