1. That which is here condemned is meddling with strife that belongs
not to us. If we must not be hasty to strive in our own cause (ch. xxv.
8), much less in other people's, especially theirs that we are no way
related to or concerned in, but light on accidentally as we pass by. If
we can be instrumental to make peace between those that are at variance
we must do it, though we should thereby get the ill-will of both sides,
at least while they are in their heat; but to make ourselves busy in
other men's matters, and parties in other men's quarrels, is not only
to court our own trouble, but to thrust ourselves into temptation. Who
made me a judge? Let them end it, as they began it, between themselves.
2. We are cautioned against it because of the danger it exposes us to;
it is like taking a snarling cur by the ears, that will snap at you and
bite you; you had better have let him alone, for you cannot get clear
of him when you would, and must thank yourselves if you come off with a
wound and dishonour. He that has got a dog by the ears, if he lets him
go he flies at him, if he keeps his hold, he has his hands full, and
can do nothing else. Let every one with quietness work and mind his own
business, and not with unquietness quarrel and meddle with other
people's business.