Our Favorite Proverbs: Proverbs 26:17

by David Chadwick

“Whoever meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a passing dog by the ears.”

Proverbs 26:17

Today’s proverb gives some very wise advice: Don’t meddle in other people’s affairs. You’ll often get caught in the middle, and your own life will be hurt or even ruined. One or both of the parties involved might even turn against you!

A meddler puts their nose where it doesn’t belong. Proverbs compares it to someone who grabs a passing dog by the ears. Can you picture the end result of that decision? A lot of thrashing, frustration, and chaos.

A great biblical example of this truth is found in the story of King Josiah. God blessed him because he was a righteous and good king who led well. But he got caught in the crosshairs of a battle between Egypt and Babylon. Egypt’s King Neco was taking his army north to battle against Babylon. King Neco told King Josiah that his battle was not with Israel, and he promised to pass through Israel without any intention of harm to Josiah’s people (2 Chronicles 35).

Instead of staying out of the fray of the fight, Josiah decided to take on King Neco in battle. He put on his armor and led his people into battle and ended up being killed. Had he refrained from meddling in something that wasn’t his business, he would have lived.

Dear friends, you are not meant to fight every battle. My dad used to say to me often, “Choose your battles wisely. Not every battle is yours.” These were such wise words from my dad, and his words perfectly aligned with Solomon’s wisdom. It is one of the most important lessons to learn.

Every situation that arises is not your mountain to climb. Too many people get themselves in trouble when they think they are supposed to fix every problem that pops up. Sometimes, the best thing to do is to put your head down, stay in your lane, and let God be God.

Surrender. Let go of control. This puts God back in the driver’s seat. And choose faith! Today and every day until Jesus returns!