Proverbs 27:1

Introduction

Chapter 27 continues the proverbs of Solomon collected under Hezekiah’s direction. The sayings are mostly grouped in pairs and seem random, though the theme of loving relationships, such as friendship, can be detected. Various subjects—praise, family, neighbors, friends—are addressed and the chapter ends with an extended word to shepherds.

 

Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not that a day may bring forth.

– Proverbs 27:1

Verses 1-2 center around boasting and praise. Boasting of tomorrow reflects overconfidence in our ability to know or control what will happen in the future. Wisdom in this case is knowing what you don’t know, as that is the reason given for not boasting of tomorrow. Wisdom does teach planning ahead (Proverbs 21:5), but only in light of the knowledge of God’s control of all things (Proverbs 16:1, 3, 9). We are not to be presumptuous about tomorrow (James 4:13-15), but neither are we to despair or over worry of tomorrow (Matthew 6:34).

 


 

 

Proverbs 17:19

He loveth transgression that loveth strife: and he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction.
– Proverbs 17:19

To love strife is to exhibit folly and to invite trouble to oneself (Proverbs 17:14; 20:3; 26:17; 29:9, 22). The phrase exalteth his gate has been understood variously, but the parallel here best supports the idea of arrogant boasting. Exalting oneself is pursuing a fall (Proverbs 16:18; 18:12). This proverb aligns with others that warn of the consequences of such a rejection of wisdom (Proverbs 1:29-32; 8:36; 22:8).

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