Sometimes it seems that the author of proverbs is inviting us to use common sense only.The reality is that he always remind us that even when using common sense you need to be aware of God’s presence.He says: “the crucible is for silver, and the furnace is for gold, but the Lord test the heart” (17:3) In other words, in this present situation what is the Lord trying to do in your life?
The other thing the writer is telling us is that in everyday life there is a clear place for peoples actions. Whatever you do will make you a fool or a wise person, a wicked and evil or good and righteous person. The key to all this is to be careful on everything you do and say.
He actually says:”One who justifies the wicked and one who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the Lord” (17:15) Again he implies that a good, wise and righteous person will do whatever they can to please the Lord.
It is really a challenge to live wisely, but there is not a better choice . In this passage the key is always to find a way to bring God into our decisions and conversations.