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Larry Ray Hafley
"As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly" (Prov.
26:11). It is not a pretty picture, but it describes us when we commit the same
sins over and over again. It describes the drunkard who promises he will quit
drinking, but when he awakens from his stupor, he says, "I will seek it yet
again" (Prov. 23:35). We may encourage ourselves in the fact that we are not
addicts and we do not return to such things, but how is it with our temper and
our tongue? Are angry words and fits of frustration characteristic of us?
It is easier to look upon the alcoholic as one who is like unto a dog
returning to his vomit, than it is to see ourselves in the same light regarding
our sins. How, though, are we any different? If we follow a constant pattern of
evil thoughts, or if we allow jealousy to judge others, how are we better than
the drunkard? Are we not also, "as a dog" returning "to his vomit," if we do the
same things over and over again?
Filthy language may become a habit. It creeps in. Soon it takes over. It
becomes part of our vocabulary, especially when angry. We promise to quit, but
it flares up and flows out of our mouths. When we reach this point, we, too, are
"as a dog" returning "to his vomit."
Are there sins we commit over and over again? If so, we are dogs; we are
fools.
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