Protect Your Marriage from “Little Foxes” - Crosswalk PLUS Marriage Devotional
Protect Your Marriage from “Little Foxes”
By: Alicia Searl
Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom. Song of Solomon 2:15
A few years ago, my husband and I went on an anniversary trip to the Texas Hill Country and visited a few well-known vineyards while taking in all the beautiful scenery. We learned a lot about the process of turning grapes into wine, and the delicate and intense work that is needed to treat and tend to the crop before harvest time. We also became aware of the damage and harm that foxes (along with other malevolent animals) can do, essentially destroying the vines. If not swiftly taken care of and removed, it eventually leads to a slew of devastating consequences.
It led me to ponder the words in the Song of Solomon, a book often noted at weddings or referred to when we seek advice on love. But I think there is so much more to this book in the Bible than a bunch of flowery poems that dish up an admirable “love quote.”
The Song of Solomon is actually a sincere exchange between two lovers, a man and his beautiful bride. And while some of the verses may make one blush, there is a precious theme that begins to unfold as we listen to their love story.
Some scholars believe that the words tucked within these pages depict the divine love between God and His people, but it could also be that God is offering us a glimpse into His holy design for marriage—an intimate partnership that should be highly honored and fiercely protected. If we really tune in, we begin to see that God is laying out for us the importance of setting healthy boundaries in our marriage to prevent potential threats from attacking and destroying what is so sacred.
This must be the symbolic imagery that is being portrayed in Song of Solomon 2:15. Whether it is misplaced priorities, little white lies, seemingly minimal compromises, a lustful look, or just slowly becoming apathetic, it’s often the “little foxes” that tend to grow into the biggest problems. We must take the time to invest in our marriages and be intentional about protecting it, by not allowing (or at least catching and throwing out) those pesky little foxes that find their way into our vineyard (a.k.a. love nests)!
Three Ways to Protect Your Marriages from “Little Foxes”
- Teether yourself to the true vine (John 1:15). Jesus tells us that if we abide in Him, we can bear much fruit, just like those lavish grapes in the vineyard. Apart from Him, we are nothing, and therefore, our marriages are prone to fail. However, if we want our marriages to thrive, we must first and foremost submit to Jesus and tlet Him lead and direct us.
- Initiate intimacy. Passion and intimacy should be honored and protected (Song of Solomon 2:7), but this sacred interaction should also be mutual, intentional, and regular (Song of Solomon 8:1-15). Persistently pursuing our spouse and seeking to give and receive enjoyment is a blessing from God (Song of Solomon 6:4-10).
- Embrace forgiveness. We must take steps to reconcile and repair any hurt that has been done. Ephesians 4:32 calls for us to be compassionate, tenderhearted, and extend forgiveness to promote peace and unity.
Let’s Pray:
Father, thank you for the beautiful gifts You so graciously provide for us in marriage. From the partnership that draws us closer to You to the passion You grant us in our love. We are only able to love because You first loved us, and we are so grateful that You teach us in Your Word how to love others well.
Father, please help us follow Your example and love our spouse in a way that honors You. Open our minds to areas in which we need to come clean and seek forgiveness and soften our hearts to share compassion and gentleness with our spouse so we can indulge in the beauty of marital intimacy.
Please protect our marriage from the outside dangers and little foxes that want to sneak in and cause harm or destroy what You so lovingly brought together. We ask this in Your holy name. Amen.
Reflection Questions:
Do you believe that Jesus is at the forefront of your marriage? How do you know?
Are you making intimacy a priority in your marriage?
What lessons can you learn and take away from the Song of Solomon?
Do you have any “little foxes” that you need to catch and remove in your marriage? Come clean before God, seek His help and wisdom, and protect your union starting today.
We hope you and your spouse are challenged and encouraged by today's devotional! For more of this premium marriage devotional, visit here.
