"Catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that are ruining the vineyards, while our vineyards are in blossom."
(Song of Solomon 2:15)
Most of us are very familiar with the story of the The Three Pigs.
Only one little pig felt it was worth his time to fortify his home with brick. True, it took more work, more expense, more time, but in the end - the "wolf" was unable to touch him (and his brothers). This very smart pig had heard about the BIG BAD WOLF and was prepared to protect himself (and his family) from his wiles.
We most likely are aware of the obvious and oversized dangers to ourselves, our marriages, our families, our relationships, our lives in general. We know about the BIG things that can take us down, harm us, discourage us, destroy us or those closest to us.
But what about the little things that creep in through the cracks of our walls or fences? The bride in the passionate book of Song of Solomon asks her man to be on the look out for the little foxes that were destroying their vineyard. A vineyard ripe with fruit. Lush. Succulent. Abundant.
What a powerful request from this young woman so in love. It seemed that their relationship was at its peak, but even then, they both realized that this was the time to be aware of the small things that could eventually destroy what they had. Satan delights in catching us off guard. He knows how to be subtle when he needs to be. True, he can be the obvious roaring lion, but he also knows when to come in sheep's clothing. Don't underestimate him when things seem to be going well in your life.
I could expound on all the small "foxes" that could destroy or weaken us from the inside out. But, I am thinking that you already know what they are in your own life, your own relationships.
So, I encourage you today. Ask God to show you the small things that have crept into the vineyard of your heart or your home. I am asking God to do that with me this week and am surprised at what little things have been eating away at the beautiful vineyard God has entrusted to me. Things that I did not even see as destructive or sinful. Little foxes of pride, impatience, selfishness, unhealthy thought patterns. All those added together can bring destruction to me.
We must deal with the little things that have crept into our lives in order to keep what God has given us strong and healthy and productive for His glory. For His honor.
Don't wait until the wolf comes huffing and puffing. By then, it may be too late.
"Why then have you broken down its walls,
so that all who pass along the way pluck its fruit?"
Psalms 80:12
Lighthouse Network is a great resource for those struggling with addictions of any kind or perhaps you are a family member who needs more guidance on how to handle a loved one who is bound by certain strongholds. Read the article about Going on a Foxhunt HERE
And yet another comprehensive and thought provoking article from the Biblical Examiner (1999) HERE.
