Then you must protect me from the foxes, foxes on the prowl, foxes who would like nothing better than to get into our flowering garden. (Song of Solomon 2:15 MSG)

These “little foxes” dig holes and passages in the marriage vineyard, loosen the love and intimacy that exists in the marriage and weaken it in the end. It is important that we are able to catch these “little foxes” that nibble the root of our love before they destroy the foundation of the marriage.

What is the meaning of “little foxes”?

Those sins, attitudes and habits that we more often overlook, excuse or defend. They could have a huge impact in our marriage. Many times we are on the defensive because we feel we cannot do what the Bible says to do. What are the “little foxes” in a marriage?

Here are some “little foxes”:

1. External Relationships
2. Being thoughtless/ preoccupied all the time
3. Forgetting special days
4. Constant criticism and comparison
5. Taking your spouse for granted
6. Not spending Quality Time with your spouse
7. Not listening/ letting him/her talk
8. Continued irritating habits
9. Infidelity
10. Interference with spouse’s disciplinary actions against the kids in their presence
11. Unresolved conflicts/ unforgiveness
12. Not thinking the best but assuming the worst
13. Lack of defined purpose
14. Turning your partner into a subject of discourse/ laughter
15. Not covering each other’s back from attacks from others

These little things that we feel don’t matter, these “little foxes” that spoil the vine inadvertently affects marriages.

Take time out as a couple and introspect and discuss transparently which “little foxes” are ruining our marriage so subtly. Be vulnerable and humble in your sharing. Seek your spouse’s help to overcome.

REMEMBER: We are called to be COMPLEMENTARY and not COMPETITIVE.

Note: You can add to the list of “little foxes”, not to be judgemental of each other but to introspect and help to build a strong and protected vineyard.