The “No-See-Ums”

Have you ever read the scripture found in the Song of Solomon 2:15 that says, “little foxes spoil the vines?” Read Song of Solomon 2:15 at BibleGateway.com.

The principle in this scripture is that smaller things in our lives such as seemingly insignificant issues or “small” sins, if left unattended, can cause a great deal of damage to our spiritual lives, or even to relationships. In other words, smaller things ignored turn into bigger things. In natural terms, if a vine is destroyed there will be no fruit! And that’s a message all by itself!

When the Tiny Things Bite

Well, I’d like to take this concept even deeper. Recently I became aware of a despicable little insect called a “no-see-um” gnat. If you don’t believe me, just check it out! So, one morning I woke up with two small red spots on my hand- one on my knuckle and the other on the side of my hand. At the time, I really didn’t think too much about these small spots.

Until, without warning, they began to itch and to itch and to itch! At this point I noticed that each small spot had a tiny hole in the center, and now the spots were raised bumps. After much research and some phone calls, I discovered that a “no-see-um” gnat had bitten me. In my sleep, when I was totally unaware, one of these critters had the audacity to create a problem for me.

Unlike “little foxes” which can easily be seen, these gnats go totally undetected. They don’t just poke you like a mosquito, but rather they actually cut the skin and inject their saliva! Gross!!! The bites last longer than mosquito bites and can take days to heal due to a prolonged allergic reaction.

The No-See-Ums of the Heart

Now you might be asking yourself at this point, “what is the point?” The point is that while there are obvious problems, situations, emotions, and complications that we CAN see, there are plenty of “no-see-ums” that we CANNOT see. These “no-see-ums” include the issues of the heart, such as pride, envy, jealousy, comparison, competition, hatred, envy, and the like.

These issues of the heart will eventually manifest symptoms in our lives that cause us great consternation. They will drive us to damage our relationships, cause us to have inner turmoil, and can hinder us from fulfilling God’s plans for our lives. So- just like when my small red bumps created “issues” and required treatment, that’s how it is with these hidden issues of the heart.

When they begin to manifest symptoms, we must run to Jesus and seek out His treatment. We must pray, “search me, Oh God, and see if there be any wicked way IN me.” Ask Him to reveal the “no-see-ums” in your heart that are creating all the complications. Then He will show you exactly what you need to do to heal. Usually the healing process requires forgiveness, apologizing, humility, and patience. These are some of God’s best cures for the “no-see-ums.”

In conclusion, let’s be very aware of the little foxes and the no-see-ums. Let us be proactive in preventing their further damage in our lives.

If this resonated with you, learn more about Pastor Carolyn’s coaching and ministry.