Proverbs 25:8-10

This proverb advises us to settle disputes out of court whenever possible. It is not wise to drag someone hastily into court to argue. We should be cautious about sharing privileged information. This may lead to embarrassment (Proverbs 25:8). We should not divulge secrets to clear ourselves in arguments or we may ruin a friendship. The plaintiff should debate his case with his neighbor out of court. Then the point of disagreement will not become public knowledge (Proverbs 25:9) and give the plaintiff a bad reputation (Proverbs 25:10; cf. 1 Corinthians 6:1-8).

"To run to the law or to the neighbors is usually to run away from the duty of personal relationship-see Christ’s clinching comment in Matthew 18:15 b." [Note: Kidner, p. 157.]

"There is no success which is achieved at the price of your own integrity or someone else’s hurt." [Note: Plaut, p. 258.]