Introductory Thoughts
The scripture offers a negative connotation of meddling. After all, meddling is the unnecessary involvement of oneself in the affairs of others. Unfortunately, it has been a common practice in the history of nations to provoke others to battle when war was unnecessary and often contrary to God’s will. For instance, Amaziah, king of Judah, sent messengers to Jehoash, king of Israel, asking for a face-to-face meeting. Jehoash responded with wisdom saying, “tarry at home: for why shouldest thou meddle to thy hurt.” Amaziah refused to heed the counsel and meddled to his own hurt. History is full of such testimonies both on a national and individual level.
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): Do you like to suffer? Some sufferings glorify God (1 Peter 4:12-14, 16). Some do not. Read what kind of suffering God forbids which includes being a busybody in the matters of others (1 Peter 4:15). If you suffer in this way, it is your own fault.
-
(For everyone): Have you ever meddled (unnecessarily involved yourself) in someone elses business? How did that turn out for you? Has this meddling often come back to hurt you in the end?
-
Josiah refused to heed Nechos warning (2 Chronicles 35:21-24). How did it turn out for him? Amaziah refused to heed Jehoashs warning. How did it turn out for him?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to give you wisdom to cease from meddling.
- Ask God to help you deal with your own problems.
Song
YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION
