December 12, 2025
The Little Foxes That (Try To) Ruin Christmas
ELIZABETH LAING THOMPSON
Lee en español
“Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.” Song of Songs 2:15 (NIV)
My children’s expressions range from disappointed to downright irritated.
“Why did you make plans for tomorrow?” Kid 1 aims an accusing look at a sibling. “We’re supposed to have a cozy family night with games, hot chocolate, and Christmas music by the tree.”
Kid 2 looks defensive. “No one told me!”
Kid 3 pipes up. “We can’t play games — we still have eight Christmas movies on our must-watch list.”
Kid 4 shakes her head. “No movies! We still have to decorate our gingerbread house and Christmas cookies.”
Ever been there? Holiday expectations sky-high, emotions even higher? Before you know it, your loved ones are shouting more than just “fa la la,” and all their holiday goodwill is buried in the snow.
Although we usually associate the book Song of Songs with romantic love, it also contains insights that strengthen other relationships, from friendships to family dynamics. In today’s key verse, for instance, Solomon wrote, “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom” (Song of Songs 2:15).
If God wants our relationships to be like vineyards — beautiful gardens producing abundant fruit of the Spirit — then “little foxes” are the annoyances that sneak in to sabotage our unity, joy, and peace. In my experience, the holidays attract more foxes than any other time of year.
Those foxes may range from mismatched expectations to financial strain, plus the stress of cramming 537 events into a too-short season, the challenge of juggling complex in-law or blended family dynamics, and the pressure to create a “perfect” holiday — all while keeping Christ at the center of Christmas.
Relationship conflict and overwhelm at Christmastime can occur with friends, roommates, co-workers, and extended family too. So how do we protect our vineyards from little foxes?
We find a clue in the lines preceding our key verse: “My dove… show me your face, let me hear your voice …” (Song of Songs 2:14, NIV). Many misunderstandings can be prevented by clear communication.
Our family usually sits down in early December to clarify our expectations, responsibilities, and calendar. We discuss questions like: How do we want this season to feel? What experiences and traditions feel most important?
Little foxes can also be the small conflicts, sharp tones, thoughtless words, and selfish behaviors that strain relationships during hectic times. To capture these conflict-foxes, we can look to Philippians 2:3b-4: “Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (NIV). What a beautiful reminder to imitate the Lord’s selfless, humble heart.
We all long for a Christmas season filled with the season’s best fruits: joy to the world, peace on earth, goodwill to all. If we keep catching foxes, we’ll enjoy more of this harvest.
Father, we long to make meaningful memories as we celebrate Jesus’ birth. So we can fully celebrate, please help us catch the foxes seeking to steal our joy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
OUR FAVORITE THINGS
The holidays are almost here … but there’s still time to give a gift that truly matters. 🎁 Our Christmas Collection is filled with meaningful devotionals and thoughtful gifts designed to encourage hearts and point them back to God’s Word. From Truth-filled resources to beautiful items made to bless the people you love most, every piece in this curated collection helps you share hope this holiday season. But don’t wait — this is your last chance to order in time for Christmas delivery! With gifts under $50, $25, and even $15, you’ll find something special for everyone on your list. Imagine the joy of giving more than just a wrapped package — giving encouragement that lasts long after the season is over. Make this Christmas one they’ll never forget. Shop the Christmas Collection today, and be sure your gifts arrive right on time!
The weeks leading up to Christmas can feel like a blur — full schedules, long lists, and constant noise. But Advent invites us to slow down and remember what’s true: Before there were lights or gifts or plans, there was Jesus — the promise of hope, peace, joy, and love for a weary world. This December, join Wendy Blight, Ellen Adkins, and host Kaley Olson on The Proverbs 31 Ministries Podcast for a special four-part Advent series releasing each Tuesday before Christmas. Each week, they’ll share honest, hope-filled conversations to help you pause in the middle of it all and remember why we celebrate. Whether you’re listening on your drive, while wrapping gifts, or by sneaking in a quiet moment with your coffee, these episodes will help you refocus your heart on the One who came near — and who’s still with you now. Listen to the latest episode, and subscribe so you’ll be the first to know when new Advent episodes release.
ENGAGE
Elizabeth sends Bible studies and devotions to her newsletter friends, and she’d love to connect on Instagram, and her website, where you can find out more about her books, including All the Feels for Teens: The Good, the Not-So-Good, and the Utterly Confusing.
FOR DEEPER STUDY
Isaiah 9:6, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (NIV).
Galatians 5:22-26, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other” (NIV).
What Scriptures or strategies help you to remain peaceful and savor unstressed time with loved ones during the busy holiday season? Share your thoughts in the comments.
© 2025 by Elizabeth Laing Thompson. All rights reserved.
Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/terra_gallery
Proverbs 31 Ministries
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Matthews, NC 28106
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