What does Proverbs 25:27 mean?

A prior proverb mentioned the danger in having "too much of a good thing" (Proverbs 25:16). Overeating happens when someone wants to feel good, so they try to pile on too much food and wind up feeling worse. A person who seeks too much glory—excess honor, respect, titles, or reputation—winds up appearing un-glorious to others. Scholars note that the ending phrases of this proverb, in Hebrew, are somewhat obscure. Most take it to support the first phrases as a warning against excess, even in positive things.

Every Christian should remember that his body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, and he was bought with a price, the blood of Christ. Therefore, he should glorify God, not himself (see 1 Corinthians 6:19–20). Living out this truth keeps a Christian from falling into the disgrace alluded to in Proverbs 25:26. That knowledge should motivate believers to regulate urges, including eating habits. First Corinthians 10:31 says, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

Furthermore, every believer needs to honor the truth given in Isaiah 42:8: "I am the LORD; that is my name; my glory I give to no other." Seeking one's own glory is the epitome of pride, and James 4:6 says, "God opposes the proud." A person who tries to make their body feel good with too much food only makes the body feel worse. A person who tries to make their spirit feel good with too much personal pride and glory only makes themselves feel smaller and less valuable.