“Catch us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines, for our vines have tender grapes» (Song of Solomon 2: 15).
THE REQUEST in this biblical expression is direct and precise. Emphasis is placed on the «little foxes.» Why not the big ones? After all. you’d think the bigger would do more damage. However, it clearly refers to the small. According to some bibliographical references, it seems that the damage that small foxes did to the vineyards of the people of Israel was big, as they went straight to the root of the vine and killed it. leaving it unable to bloom and produce fruit’, a small act left terrible consequences.
There are many things that in principle seem «small» to us but. without realizing it, they turn into great evils. For example, a small bad thought can become a destructive habit, and that habit can eventually become a lifestyle that leads to disease or moral degradation like responding to a bold and flirtatious look from a male who believes its just an innocent little game, can eventually become a moral decline as serious as fornication or infidelity. A small word spoken rudely, as a result of a momentary obfuscation, can cause resentment, bitterness, and a gap between two people Thus, any small and seemingly innocent act can bring guilt, shame and separation from God, leaving the person who falls into it with a sense of unworthiness.
Little foxes will always roam around your vineyard, especially when its about to produce fruit. Your most vulnerable part of your personality will always be stalked, a part that only God and you know. That’s why it’s very important to be alert with well-disciplined senses, so you might be able to smell, see, hear, and touch what’s right for your eternal salvation. With your eyes set on Christ, the Author and Finisher of your faith, you will be protected.
Allow God to take care of your vineyard, because He is the only one who knows what causes the real harm. Sometimes He will prune the traits of your personality that keep you from blooming, so trials and suffering might reach you. But reality is that He will always send you the sun of justice and rain of righteousness, which will refresh your soul and make you flourish and bear abundant fruits that honor Him.