Charles Ellicott Commentary Proverbs 27

Boast not thyself of to-morrow. —This is also forbidden in James 4:13 and following, but there on the higher ground that it argues a lack of submission to the will of Almighty God.

This frame of mind, as well as the opposite one of excessive anxiety for tomorrow (Matthew 6:34), proceeds from the same cause: too much dependence upon self. It can only be addressed by learning to realize the love of God for His children (Matthew 6:26, 30, 33) and by looking up to Him daily for protection, guidance, and support.

Let another man (zar) praise you ... a stranger (nokhrî).—As to the difference between these words, see above on Proverbs 2:16. A higher consideration than this is suggested in 2 Corinthians 10:18.

But a fool’s wrath is heavier than them both — that is, harder to bear. (Compare to Sirach 12:15.) The “fool” here (evil) is the headstrong, self-willed person who has never learned to control himself but bursts out into the maddest rage when crossed.

But who is able to stand before envy?— Rather, jealousy. (Compare to Proverbs 6:34.) “Wrath” and “anger” rage for a while like a storm, and then subside; but jealousy can never be completely set at rest.

Secret love— i.e., that never discloses itself in acts of kindness, not even in “open rebuke” when such is needed.