Proverbs 26:17-19 - Homilies By E. Johnson

Wanton petulance

I. MEDDLING IN OTHERS ' QUARRELS . ( Proverbs 26:17 .) By a very homely image the folly of this is marked. To interfere in disputes which do not concern one is to get hurt one's self. No doubt the proverb admits of a very selfish application. We may excuse indifference to right on such a plea. But a true instinct of Christian justice and love will find a middle course. We should be sure of our call to act before we meddle in others' affairs. It is rare that it can be our duty to volunteer the office of judge. Benevolent neutrality is generally our most helpful attitude.

II. MAKING SPORT OF MISCHIEF . ( Proverbs 26:18 , Proverbs 26:19 .) There is an ape-like line of mischief in human nature that needs to be watched. Amusing in trifling matters, it may, if encouraged, fly at high game. He that purposely deceives his neighbour under colour of a jest is no less prejudicial to him than a lunatic that cloth wrong out of frenzy and distraction (Bishop Hall). The habit of teasing should be corrected in children. What seems comparatively harmless in itself at first may readily become a habit and harden into a vice. It is in the little delicacies of daily life, no less than in the greatest matters, that we are called to practise the golden rule. We must consider the effect , as well as the intention , of our actions; for, as in the old fable, what is sport to us may be grievous hurt to another.—J.