Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse isn't just a warning against overconfidence, but a profound reminder that our carefully laid plans are entirely subject to God's sovereign hand. It highlights that "a day" doesn't just happen; it is God who brings forth whatever occurs within it, whether that's blessing or unforeseen challenges.
Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse opens a chapter packed with practical wisdom, starting with a crucial caution against overconfidence in future plans. It's a direct warning against the arrogance of assuming tomorrow is guaranteed, reminding us that our lives and all our endeavors are in God's hands. The immediate context emphasizes that human planning is vulnerable to the unpredictable turns of providence, a theme echoed throughout the book and even by Jesus himself.
Ever meticulously planned your week, only to have unexpected events throw it all off course? This verse speaks directly to that reality.
The wisdom in Proverbs 27:1 is a gentle but firm reminder against arrogant presumption about the future. It's not about not planning, but about not boasting or relying on our plans as if they are certainties. The Hebrew word for 'boast' here implies a sense of self-reliance and puffed-up confidence. Our plans, no matter how well-laid, are subject to forces beyond our control. The simple truth is, we don't know what a single day will bring. It can hold unforeseen challenges, joys, or even profound shifts in our circumstances. This lack of control isn't a reason for despair, but a call for humility.
What does it mean for a 'day' to 'bring forth' events? It points to a power far greater than our own.
The phrase 'what a day may bring forth' isn't just about random chance. The ancient commentators understood that God's sovereign hand is ultimately behind all that occurs. Whether events are positive or negative, they are permitted or caused by God's almighty power and providence. This perspective shifts our focus from the unpredictability of circumstances to the steadfastness of the One who governs them. Recognizing God's role doesn't negate the need for wise preparation, but it reorients our trust. Instead of boasting in our plans, we can find security in His unfailing care, even when tomorrow looks uncertain.
Understand the original words
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tahalal · Hebrew Verb
To glory, brag, or speak with excessive pride about one's own achievements or future prospects, often implying self-sufficiency and a lack of reliance on God.
This passage directly echoes Proverbs 27:1 by warning against boasting about the future and instead directs us to acknowledge God's sovereignty, stating, 'If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.'
Luke 12:16-20Jesus tells the parable of the rich fool who plans to tear down his barns and build bigger ones, only to be told he will die that night, illustrating the folly of boasting about future plans when life is so uncertain.
Matthew 6:33-34While cautioning against anxiety for the future, Jesus also teaches a balanced perspective, urging us to seek God's kingdom first, trusting Him to provide for our needs day by day, rather than boasting in our own plans.
Ecclesiastes 11:8This verse encourages enjoying the present because the future is unknown, stating, 'Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in the grave, to which you are going,' aligning with the uncertainty highlighted in Proverbs.
pooleProverbs 27:1: "Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."
Counsel against self-conceitedness, Proverbs 27:1,2 . The evil effects of envy, Proverbs 27:4 . The praises of a faithful friend, Proverbs 27:5-10 . The different fruits of prudence and folly, Proverbs 27:11,12 . Sundry rules and cautions, Proverbs 27:13-21 . Of tomorrow; of any good thing which thou purposest to do or hopest to receive to-morrow, or hereafter; the thee being here put metonymically…
jfbProverbs 27:1: "Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."
CHAPTER 27Pr 27:1-27.1. Do not confide implicitly in your plans (Pr 16:9; 19:21; Jas 4:13-15).
This verse isn't just a warning against overconfidence, but a profound reminder that our carefully laid plans are entirely subject to God's sovereign hand. It highlights that "a day" doesn't just happen; it is God who brings forth whatever occurs within it, whether that's blessing or unforeseen challenges.
This verse opens a chapter packed with practical wisdom, starting with a crucial caution against overconfidence in future plans. It's a direct warning against the arrogance of assuming tomorrow is guaranteed, reminding us that our lives and all our endeavors are in God's hands. The immediate context emphasizes that human planning is vulnerable to the unpredictable turns of providence, a theme echoed throughout the book and even by Jesus himself.
This verse opens a chapter packed with practical wisdom, starting with a crucial caution against overconfidence in future plans. It's a direct warning against the arrogance of assuming tomorrow is guaranteed, reminding us that our lives and all our endeavors are in God's hands. The immediate context emphasizes that human planning is vulnerable to the unpredictable turns of providence, a theme echoed throughout the book and even by Jesus himself.
"Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring." — This verse isn't just a warning against overconfidence, but a profound reminder that our carefully laid plans are entirely subject to God's sovereign hand. It highlights that "a day" doesn't just *ha…
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Last reviewed October 2026