God’s Tomorrow vs. Man’s Tomorrow
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Proverbs 27:1
Do not boast about tomorrow, For you do not know what a day may bring forth
I struggled with “boast” in this verse. All definitions I could find indicated exactly what I thought – to brag or be proud of. As I reflected more upon the meaning of this admonition, it occurred to me that we (man) tend to get pretty complacent in our lives when things are going well. This prophet is admonishing us not to get too satisfied with our lives, and especially with ourselves. I guess it could be restated, “don’t rest on your laurels.”
Really, this verse cautions us not to let down our guard. The world is full of so many influences contrary to our faith. And it may just be me, but it seems that just at the moment I think to myself, “I’ve got this under control,” that’s when something happens that I didn’t expect. So we must be ever vigilant. We must also be ever intentional and deliberate about building up our knowledge of the divinely inspired word of God – the Bible – and exploring and praying about how it applies to us and our daily lives.
It sounds so easy–no–simple. And it is simple. If we live in isolation and are in community only with others who share our faith and values. It’s simple as long as no one crosses over the line we’ve drawn in the sand as acceptable behavior. It’s simple as long as we’re not tested to take a stand ourselves, possibly risking loss of a relationship, a job, or something else of value. Actually, it’s still simple even in those circumstances–it’s just not easy.
There’s another reason we’re cautioned not to boast about tomorrow – the future is not in our hands! It’s in the Lord’s. And we don’t know what plans He has for us, with us, or through us. So a healthy dose of humility, in addition to watchfulness and diligence is probably in order.
So, let’s not boast about tomorrow – or worry about it either! Let’s live today for all its worth! Let’s give God everything we are and everything we have in each moment we’re alive. If we do that, I think tomorrow with take care of itself. Please remind me of this next time you hear me expressing worry and/or impatience about the future. Admittedly, you will have ample opportunity!
My prayer today is that we take the time to relish each moment - in the present. And that we look with excitement and peace of mind toward the future God has planned for us in heaven – more incredible and amazing than we can even comprehend.
Mary
