SPOILERS OF SERVICE: Song of Solomon 2:15 (Base: T. Q. Martin) I. Introduction. A. There are items that tend to take the joy from from one's service. B. In life, there are distractions(which should be temporary), that interfere with satisfaction. C. In spite of this, there are indications that some are miserable in their service. D. It does take effort and determination to eliminate barriers to joyful and fruitful service. E. The illustration of Solomon: Song of Solomon 2:15. 1. Use of animals in Bible illustrations not unusual: Job 12:7. 2. Psa. 32:9. F. By many, they may be considered "little sins" but they, like foxes have an adverse effect. II. Body. A. Irreverence destroys joy. 1. Define: To esteem sacred things lightly. 2. Note: Hebrews 12:16. 3. Profanity: (1 Colossians 4:6. (2 Exodus 20:7. 4. Current use of "God" and other sacred names. 5. Society contributes; movies; books; TV. B. Pride can rob like little fox. 1. Deceptive: Jeremiah 49:16. 2. People often unaware of interference. a. Won't attend services due to clothes. b. Too proud to admit a mistake. 3. For a Christian, humility is standard: I Peter 5:6. 4. The world is filled with pride. C. Jealousy can spoil one's service. 1. Often, a feeling in the heart that arises when one receives something I felt I should have. 2. Or, fearful someone is getting something I do have. 3. Using unkind(derogatory) statements when receives something rewarding. 4. James said: 3:16. 5. Jealousy can be found in the church; in in communities; among friends; at work, etc. D. Favoritism can destroy acceptable service. 1. Reaching a conclusion on any basis without a true and honest investigation. a. "He is my friend"..."he is my friend, right or wrong"..."I will stand by him, regardless." b. A true friend corrects and supports one in a cause that is right. c. A friend would listen and encourage one to stand for truth, etc. d. Paul was a friend to the Galatians: 4:16. e. Never let affection for individual blind to need of person. 2. While it may have a deep concern, sometimes we say, "Be careful when speak to this one so as not to hurt his feelings."(Not true of all?) 3. Did Corinth have too much: "I am of Paul...I am of Apollos?" E. "Hurt feelings" can spoil one's righteousness. 1. As little foxes nibbled at grapes, so such feelings can eat away the spiritual health of a disciple. 2. To let personal likes and dislikes control one more than the word of God is WRONG. 3. While a Christian does not go around trying to hurt one's feelings, some folks have their feelings so hung out, any truth offends them! 4. If one is mad at preacher or member, how foolish to QUIT THE LORD! 5. What one said: was it the truth? "Yes, but did not like the way he said it." 6. "They didn't speak".."they are not friendly.. "I didn't like what he said".."I don't feel wanted"..and on and on. 7. Jesus plainly said: Matthew 6:33. F. Three spoilers: malice, selfishness, unforgiveness. 1. Connection between these three. 2. Ephesians 4:31-32. III. Conclusion. A. These have one thing in common: they are controlled by the individual. B. Need to work at not letting them spoil my service to God: they can have a great affect on any disciple.-jy