“He that passeth by, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears.” Proverbs 26:17 (KJV)
One of the many traits shared by humans and animals is curiosity. We all begin as infants, developing our senses to discover the world around us. As we grow, so does our desire to explore our environment. We also learn to interact with other humans and animals through emotions.
Curiosity can be magical – opening a new world of experiences. It can also destroy relationships. The problem is personal space. Where does one's personal space end and another person’s begin? When does concern become nosy, a request for prayer become gossip, or a friendship become hurt feelings and loss of trust?
An intrusion on personal space can cause damage.
My oldest dachshund is eleven years old, and the youngest is one and one-half, with several in between. They have a pecking order, not necessarily by age, and usually adhere to it. Occasionally, one will meddle in another's business and conflict results. I must then step in and resolve the issue.
The Lord speaks to us throughout Scripture about minding our own business. He wants us to be concerned for each other. However, as our Creator, He understands our natural curiosity. There is a fine line between genuine care and interfering. We will eventually bring trouble onto ourselves by pushing into the business of others.
Respect the personal space of others as we would have them respect ours. Curb the curiosity and show true love and support for those who need it, because Christ’s love is in us.
Dear Lord,
Help me to be mindful of the line between true concern and meddling.
Amen to this.
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