Let Folly Praise That Fancy Loves

“Let Folly Praise That Fancy Loves” is a devotional poem and hymn text by Robert Southwell, a sixteenth century English priest and poet. Written during a time of persecution, Southwell’s works often contrast worldly values with eternal truth. This hymn reflects a strong rejection of earthly vanity and a wholehearted devotion to Christ as the true object of praise.

The opening line sets the tone by dismissing the shallow pursuits that the world celebrates. This idea closely reflects 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, where the wisdom of the world is contrasted with the wisdom of God. What the world considers foolish, namely the message of the cross, is in reality the power and wisdom of God. Southwell’s text calls believers to turn away from empty admiration of worldly things and to center their praise on Christ.

Philippians 3:7-8 provides another key foundation, as the apostle Paul counts all earthly gain as loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ. The hymn echoes this perspective by diminishing the value of worldly honor and elevating the surpassing worth of knowing and loving Christ. True riches are not found in human achievement or recognition, but in a relationship with the Savior.

Colossians 3:2 urges believers to set their affection on things above, not on things on the earth. Southwell’s hymn embodies this command by directing attention away from temporary pleasures and toward eternal realities. The focus is not merely on rejecting the world, but on embracing Christ as the supreme good.

Matthew 6:19-21 further reinforces the message by teaching that treasures should be laid up in heaven rather than on earth. The hymn reflects this teaching by encouraging a reordering of priorities. What is lasting and valuable is not what fades with time, but what is grounded in God’s truth.

“Let Folly Praise That Fancy Loves” stands as a thoughtful and searching piece of devotional poetry. Its tone is reflective and corrective, calling believers to examine their affections and to align them with eternal truth. Through its contrast between worldly vanity and divine wisdom, the hymn directs the heart to Christ as the only worthy object of lasting praise and devotion.