“The little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes” (SOS 2:15). Brush and fences protected the tender grapes from large animals, but offered no protection from the smaller animals which destroyed the grapes. Sometimes it is the little things that destroy families, friends and ministries. I often say, “The greatest testimony to the world is a changed, consistent, Christian life.” But Ghandi said, “I like your Christ, but not your Christianity.” Sadly many Christians lose their impact and influence over small trifling little things. The small unnoticed foxes spoil the vines and tender grapes. “Little Things” magnifies into “Large Things.”
I saw one pastor who lost his temper with a little league umpire, and he later lost his church. It has been said that most quick reactions are in the flesh. As board members were dining, one of them pointed to a man in the serving line and stated, “There goes our next president.” As they all looked they saw the man hide two small butter patties (value 4 cents) under his bread. You guessed it! He was fired! I heard the late Dr. Bill Rice tell the story of him buying a newspaper in the airport. The clerk suggested a playboy magazine. He looked at the clerk and said, “I am Bill Rice. I am a Christian. I would never do such a thing.” The clerk smiled and said, “I know who you are.” So, as you look, don’t forget to look up! “Be sure your sin will find you out” (Num. 32:23). I read of a new preacher in town. After he paid his bus fare he noticed he was given too much change. He thought, “Oh, forget it, it’s only a quarter.” When his stop came, and as he started to step down, paused, then quickly returned the quarter to the driver saying, “You gave me too much change.” The driver smiled, “I know, you are the new preacher in town, I gave you an extra quarter to see what you would do. I’ve been thinking about visiting your church. I will see you on Sunday.“
It is sad that many have lost their lifetime testimony over regretted little acts of temper, yelling, rudeness, lies, and moments of dishonesty. Some have moments of bitterness that defiles many (Heb. 12:5). Don’t become bitter, but become better. Fact: One renown evangelist said, “I lost my lifetime ministry for fifteen minutes of sin.” Count the cost of sin! Beware! The little foxes destroyed the grapes and vineyards. We should all pray, “Lord don’t let me do anything in a few minutes, that could cost me my lifetime ministry.” Fact: Tiny Trivial Things Transform To Tremendous Terrible Things.
So, don’t blow it!
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