One minute read.
Daily Reading: Jeremiah 51:1-53, Titus 2:1-15, Psalm 99:1-9, Proverbs 26:17
Daily Verse: “Whoever meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a passing dog by the ears.” Prov. 26:17
Unwanted interference.
Meddling in someone else’s quarrel will get you bitten. Solomon uses the analogy of grabbing a dog’s ears. Not talking about Benji or Lassie, the most beloved dog stars of their day, Solomon’s referring to stray dogs like wild jackals.
During my brief time in El Salvador, one of my vivid memories contains dogs. Walking through the streets and working at the center, neglected, starved dogs lay everywhere. Sad eyes looked up at you in the broiling heat as they lay barely alive. The mistreatment of animals hurt my heart and left a lasting impression. But I knew not to mess with them.
If I had grabbed a dog by the ears, I probably would have contracted rabies from the bite. In the same way, getting into someone else’s business will get you hurt. Knowing when to engage and when to remain silent brings you peace.
Don’t get into other people’s business if they don’t ask for your help. Give others the respect to fight their battles as they wish.
Lord, thank You for these words of wisdom meant to protect us from unnecessary harm. Please help us know when to engage and when to stay quiet. Please give us the wisdom and discernment to see the difference. IJNIP. Amen
