Mind the Gaps

Safeguarding our relationship with God

We had a new fence built down the side of our property recently. The old one had such a lean on it that I was sure the next bird who landed on it would push it over. The new palings contain a lot of moisture, and as they dry in the sun, they contract, leaving small gaps.

I was sitting out on the deck with my morning coffee the other day, when I noticed a vine coming through a gap in the fence. It had a light purple flower on it. Thinking how lovely it was, I moved on to other thoughts, and my day continued. A few days later, I was in the same spot with another cup of coffee. I was sipping away contentedly when I was suddenly aware of the vine I’d noticed a few days ago. It had since moved around my pots of herbs and looked like it was coming for me! I was shocked by how quickly it had grown and spread. It looked like there was no stopping it.

And then it happened. In my spirit, I heard, “Mind the gaps.”

I knew it was a warning about what we allow into our lives, specifically in those down times, those gaps in our busy lives. Ladies, we need to be aware of the things that look good, as they can easily take over. I sat a bit longer because I like specifics. I’m committed to growing my relationship with God, so I asked Holy Spirit to point out what I needed to see. He gently did.

This also came to mind, “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom” (Song of Songs 2:15 NIV). Along with gently pointing out that my social media scrolling and dangerous daydreaming were not helpful, I love that He also encouraged me by highlighting two words in this verse: “in bloom.”

I encourage you, as this year gains momentum, to please mind the gaps. Please catch the foxes. Your growing, “in bloom” relationship with God is worth it. Perhaps you can begin by spending some time in quiet contemplation, asking Him to highlight what He wants you to know.

As for me, I’ve got some pruning to do—outside and internally.