How to Avoid Becoming a Detested Neighbor

Daily Devotional – Monday, August 14, 2023
Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house— too much of you, and they will hate you.
Proverbs 25:17 (NIV)

Good neighbors share your joys and sorrows. While they are not your kin, these noble people consider you part of their lives. You visit their homes and feel as if you are in your own residence. That said, for your social bonds to grow stronger, you must avoid becoming a detested neighbor.

Seldom Set Foot in Your Neighbor’s House

Tucked inside the wisdom-laden book of Proverbs is a gem that, if adhered to, will result in productive and long-lasting social bonds. King Solomon advises, “Seldom set foot in your neighbors house— too much of you, and they will hate you.” (Proverbs 25:17). Solomon echoes the age-old adage, “Familiarity breeds contempt.”

It is important and good to visit your neighbor, but let it be out of necessity. Your visits, especially unplanned ones, can irritate even the best neighbor. Hatred towards you develops gradually because your friend interprets your visits as a sign of disrespect for three critical areas of his or her life.

Shield Yourself from Hatred

The first aspect is time. A person who does not respect your time does not deserve your friendship. Endless visits to your neighbor without notice imply that you do not care that that person has a daily schedule and itinerary. When you show up announced and expect the other person’s attention, you are suggesting that your issues are more important than his or her time.

Secondly, a neighbor will hate you if you do not respect his privacy. We all love private moments when we can work on personal projects, read, pray, or meditate. Jesus Himself once instructed His disciples to withdraw from the multitudes, have time to rest, and rejuvenate, before resuming their critical ministry (Read Mark 6:31).

How to Avoid Becoming a Detested Neighbour

Thirdly, seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house as a sign of respect to his or her family. Allow family members to have space, time, and privacy to discuss internal issues. Do not be the unwelcome guest who wants to eavesdrop on matters that do not concern you. You may be a good neighbor, but there are moments when your presence is a nuisance.

Today, avoid becoming a detestable neighbor. Remember, your neighbors need time, privacy, and space to deal with personal and family issues. Ask God for wisdom to know when you are overstepping and need to retreat. Instead of making unnecessary and unsolicited visits, call your neighbor on the phone or go on your knees and pray for him or her.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, give me the wisdom to avoid becoming a detestable neighbor.