Prov 27:1

by Paul Ice


"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."
Prov 27:1


This verse helps remind us of two major principle. They are truths that we see many times in scripture.  


The word "boast" is the idea of "to praise" or to "glory."  It is also a reflexive form and so you could also say it this way, "Do not self praise" or, "Do not self glory." 


The idea is that you are seeking your own glory from future achievements.  Here would be a few examples:  A soldier who pins on the Purple heart the day before the battle or a basketball player who speaks of the trophy before it is won.


So why does Solomon say we should avoid such boasting?


1.  Because we are ignorant of the future.  To hope, plan, fear, anticipate is to be human.  Solomon is not telling us to ignore the future, but is reminding us of our ignorance of the future.


Why are we ignorant of the future?


2.  We don't control the future.  A theological idea that changes everything.  Most all will agree we don't know the future, however, coming to the understanding that someone does control the future changes everything.  


Psalm 33:11


"The counsel of the Lord stands forever,
the plans of his heart to all generations."