“Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom” (Song of Solomon 2:15, NIV)
This picture describes the love of the couple as a “vineyard.” It also describes the “little foxes” that would come in and “ruin the vineyard” of their love.
Our life is like a vineyard, of which God is the caretaker. Within the heart of repentant men and women, the Caretaker plants His choicest vine, Jesus. But the devil, God’s enemy, sends his little foxes into the vineyard to spoil the fruit of the vine. In my experience, it has usually been the “little foxes” that have caused the most damage to my Christian testimony. Big adversaries like a bear are easy to see, but little foxes are harder to find! There are the little foxes of lying, slander, laziness, and selfishness. When the foxes get in, they spoil the fruit that God is trying to grow in our life. We need to catch all the little foxes before they ruin the vineyard.
So what are some of these little foxes in the vineyard in our life? We must ask God to help us live in reality, willing to admit that the little foxes ruin our love for God and for other people.
We must remember that the Caretaker is in His tower, helping watch out for the foxes. Ask Him to help you catch the little foxes that threaten your vineyard. When the fruit of the vine is preserved, the Owner of the vineyard is glorified!
PRAYER
Lord, I want to look at my life truthfully, to see the fruit I produce for You. Forgive me for the times when I allow the “little foxes” too much room and my Christian testimony is damaged. Help me to identify the “little” sins I make excuses for. Show me how hurtful my disobedience can be to myself and to those around me. I want the fruit of my life to glorify You. Amen.
