A Dog Returns to Its Vomit
In Proverbs 26:11, we come across a verse that can feel quite jarring: “As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.” This vivid image, quoted again in 2 Peter 2:22, starkly illustrates the idea of choosing what is harmful, even after experiencing the pain it brings. When we think of a dog returning to what it rejected, it’s a humbling metaphor—one that seems uncomfortably close to our own human tendencies. We’re all prone to making poor choices, repenting, yet somehow finding ourselves lured back to the very things we knew were no good for us.
This verse nudges us to look at how often we repeat familiar patterns, sometimes feeling trapped in cycles of poor decisions. In many ways, it invites us to reflect on our personal choices and, if we’re open to it, the larger choices made within our communities or even on a national level. How often do we, collectively, choose pathways that move us further from the virtues we claim to cherish?
The Allure of Familiarity
Why would anyone return to something they’ve previously turned away from? Part of it, as scripture suggests, lies in the human heart’s susceptibility to being “fooled” or misled, often by what feels familiar or comforting—even when it contradicts wisdom or the principles of love, humility, and compassion.
At times, we might find ourselves attracted to strong personalities or ideas that appeal to our immediate needs, desires, or frustrations. We look to these choices with hope for something different or new, only to realize we are walking a well-trodden path. Perhaps these choices, deep down, don’t reflect what we truly value or who we truly want to be, yet the pull of habit and nostalgia can be powerful.
This dynamic happens in personal lives, relationships, and even in the political sphere. We’re all aware of cycles where communities and nations seem to double back to choices that contradict foundational ideals—whether ideals of justice, kindness, or truth.
What Does Repeating Folly Look Like?
Consider the ideals we are called to aspire toward as followers of Christ: honesty, humility, mercy, and selflessness. When we look to leadership or influence, Christ’s example steers us toward people who embody these values, whose actions build rather than tear down, who seek peace rather than conflict. Jesus spoke of those who serve others selflessly, choosing the path of integrity over personal gain.
Yet, there are moments in history when the voices we support seem to echo less of Christ and more of worldly power—pride, divisiveness, and aggression. While some may be drawn to bold displays of strength or charisma, the character of Christ calls us to look beyond mere appearances or appealing rhetoric and toward what truly aligns with His values. Repeating folly can mean clinging to choices that emphasize power over grace, division over unity, and personal gain over communal well-being.
Lessons in Self-Reflection and Growth
Proverbs 26:11 is a tough mirror to look into, but it is also a powerful call to growth. Every person, every community, and indeed every nation, is given opportunities to learn from past mistakes, to rise above what has been harmful, and to reach for a better, brighter way forward. But without careful reflection and the courage to make different choices, we can find ourselves retracing steps that lead back to old, familiar mistakes.
Just as we might encounter moments of déjà vu in our spiritual lives, there are times when society collectively revisits choices that have previously led to discord, suffering, or disillusionment. Rather than moving forward, we can fall into the comfort of familiarity, choosing again what didn’t serve us well. And this cycle, like the proverbial dog returning to its vomit, serves as a warning: true progress only comes through a commitment to change and growth.
Asking Ourselves the Right Questions
In times of decision-making, whether in our own hearts or as part of a wider community, it is worth asking ourselves some essential questions. Are we choosing the path that aligns with Christ-like values? Are we supporting people or systems that reflect humility, honesty, and a spirit of service? Are we drawn to what is popular, easy, or familiar, or are we genuinely seeking the way that builds up and renews?
As the verse reminds us, it can be all too easy to fall back into familiar mistakes. But perhaps with prayer, discernment, and honest reflection, we can be inspired to break cycles of foolish choices and choose what is truly uplifting and worthy of the hope we place in God.