The Perilous Pride of Tomorrow: Four Rules for Uncertain Days

"Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." (Proverbs 27:1)

Joseph Exell observed that Providence has deliberately withheld permanence from human conditions on earth. The seeds of alteration are everywhere sown, yet by strange deception, each man believes himself exempt from this universal law. We build plans with confidence as though assured our circumstances shall never change.

Exell prescribed four precepts for conduct regarding futurity:

I. Boast Not of Tomorrow. Never presume arrogantly on futurity. Beware pride and vanity. In the day of prosperity, rejoice with trembling, not swagger.

II. Despair Not of Tomorrow. Though adverse situations fill us with alarm, the day may bring unforeseen relief. We should hope under distress, for no external state should so agitate our spirits as to deprive us of a calm and steady mind. Anxiety is a dangerous disease, productive of much sin and misery.

III. Delay Not Till Tomorrow What Is Proper Today. Thou art not lord of tomorrow. Procrastination has ruined mankind throughout every age. Tomorrow, already laden with today's concerns, becomes clogged and embarrassed. Such delay ravages both worldly and spiritual interests.

IV. Be Every Day Prepared for What Tomorrow May Bring. The best preparation consists in a well-ordered mind, a good conscience, and cheerful submission to Adonai's will. Whether tomorrow brings unexpected good or evil, receive it with gratitude and temperance.