Prov 27:17 often makes us think of the blissful edification we get from our godly counsel; the understanding, trustworthy and careful in their reproach as we too would be on them/others. Moments ago i was led to the reality of the intense cutting and shaping (but not limited to) process and relating it to the human/believers context. Remember the times you felt judged or criticized, forced to account or when you felt a preaching is about you! disappointed by someone you least expected or when your faith is challenged or tested beyond what you can handle? Ever considered that this could be a process of being sharpened? I mean devotions and prayer points to follow are appropriate but some would seem like only using sandpaper to try to sharpen an iron. Consider also that their words or behavior /expectation is inspired by the Word of God, that is alive & active and is like a double edged sword, thereby meaning the impact it has on you is the intent of the Word and Will of God that they can't even be given credit for as they are only saying the Word to you and expecting what the Word expects in the first place!