Proverbs 27:21 - Man is tested by the praise he receives

The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives.

As the fining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so is a man to his praise.

The crucible is for silver and the furnace for gold, And each is tested by the praise accorded him.

Proverbs 27:21

Commentary

The way you respond to praise reveals your character, just as a jeweler's furnace reveals the nature of the precious metal (v. 21). Praise brought out the best in David but the worst in Saul (1 Sam. 18:1-16). What does it do to you?

Wiersbe, W. W. (1997, c1991). With the word Bible commentary (Pr 27:1). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

Biblical humility

Biblical humility is also a recognition that by ourselves we are inadequate, without dignity and worthless. Yet, because we are created in God's image and because believers are in Christ, we have infinite worth and dignity (1 Cor. 4:6-7; 1 Pet. 1:18-19). True humility does not produce pride but gratitude. Since God is both our Creator and Redeemer, our existence and righteousness depend on Him (John 15:5; Acts 17:28; Eph. 2:8-10).

Youngblood, R. F., Bruce, F. F., Harrison, R. K., & Thomas Nelson Publishers. (1995). Nelson's new illustrated Bible dictionary. Rev. ed. of: Nelson's illustrated Bible dictionary.; Includes index. Nashville: T. Nelson.