We all are familiar with the animal called a fox. It is a carnivorous mammal of the dog family who is proverbially known for its cunning behavior. When a person is cunning or sly, they are likened as being like a fox — always tricking others. In ancient biblical days, little foxes wreaked havoc in the vineyards. Spiritually we are the branches on the vine. The true vine is Jesus. For us to bear spiritual fruit, we must stay connected to the vine (Jesus). What role do the foxes play? Foxes that entered the vineyards, often unnoticed ruined them and hindered the growth of the fruit or took it away. In our lives, the foxes represent the little things in our relationships that weaken its bonds. We must be careful not to allow small things to ruin our relationships with others, but most especially with God.

I am writing this post to remind us to focus more on our relationship with God, which will assist us in strengthening our personal relationships. What are these little foxes? They come in the form of the things that we think; we say or do. The little things happen as weights, but so quickly may turn into sin and hinder our spiritual growth. They rob us of the blessings God has in store for us. If we don’t stop their invasion into our life, the little foxes will grow into big foxes. Sometimes we allow our focus to move from God and center more on our human desires, forgetting what the scripture says: But seek ye first the kingdom of God…..and all these things shall be added to you. If we seek God more, there is little time for things that separate us from God to creep into our life.

Once God has allowed us to have a relationship with someone, we must work toward keeping out the little things that pull us apart from our mate. As I think about past relationships, I have to also think about what were the little foxes that crept in and caused discord, unhappiness, or pain. Was I aware of a potential invasion in my life? Did I try to do anything to rid my life of them? I remember something a former pastor said to me. He said that I allowed some of the things in my marriage to happen. I didn’t stop them. As I think back, he was correct. Certain things happened, and I went along for the ride. I became a passenger instead of a driver and driving those little foxes out of my vineyard.

Think about a particular relationship in your life that went awry, what was your role? Were there things you could have rejected in your life and not accepted? If so and you didn’t, why didn’t you? Do you see another possible outcome if you had? Just a few things to help you to think. We want healthier and lasting relationships this year. Beginning first with our relationship with God and then with our other connections. The closer we get to God, the little foxes can’t cause us any harm and will move into the vineyard of someone who is not as connected spiritually. Watch out for anything or anyone that may come our way when we are most vulnerable during times of loneliness, heartache, low self-esteem, sadness, etc. Just watch out for the foxes! Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes. Song of Solomon 2:15. I’ll be back next week with a new post, “His Story!”

Be encouraged, and God bless!

Sister Jackie