June 2, 2017

Insights on Today's Reading

Today your scheduled reading is the Book of Song of Solomon.  It's not that long in content but it is rich in meaning.

Wiersbe says, "Jewish tradition sees this book picturing Jehovah's love for Israel, and Christians see it illustrating Christ's love for the church (Ephesians 5:23-33) as well as the individual believer (John 14:21-24).  The 'plot' centers on King Solomon's love for a humble maiden.  Courtship (1:1-3:5) leads to marriage (3:6-5:1) and then to the joys and trials of married love (5:2-8:14)."  He also says, "As you read the Song of Solomon, be sure to distinguish the various people speaking.  Many recent translations of the Bible, such as the New Kings James Version, will identify them for you.  Also keep in mind that this is a poem for mature people.  It is rich in Oriental imagery and must be 'felt' as well as read.  Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes for the inquiring mind, Proverbs for the obedient will, and the Song of Solomon for the loving heart.  It takes all three for a balanced life."

The best way I can comment on these eight chapters is to follow Wiersbe's thoughts and comments.  He focuses on thinking of the relationship Solomon and his bride had as a picture of Christ's relationship with His Church (all who have believed in Him).

Song of Solomon 1 - Christ loves you, no matter what you may see in yourself.  Your love for Him is expressed in words and deeds.  Enjoy his love as you would enjoy food and drink and the fragrance of sweet perfume.  He wants to lead you into deeper experiences.  Never be afraid to follow Him.  Don't neglect your work, for both devotion and service belong to a balanced Christian life.

Song of Solomon 2 - As you grow in your love for Christ, you must expect a variety of experiences, both pleasant and painful.  You never know when your Lord will come to you for a time of communion, so be ever alert.  When you spend time in loving communion with Christ, it is like springtime after winter and the dawning of a new day.

Song of Solomon 3 - There are times when the Lord seeks for you and you should seek for Him.  People telling you about the Lord should never be enough.  You want to be with Him yourself!  Being united with Christ in marriage is what the Church looks forward to. 

Song of Solomon 4 - To experience Christ's love, listen to His words, look to Him in love, and live to please Him.  Sometimes He will send trials to bring out the best blessings.  When the Lord comes to your "garden," let Him enjoy your love.

Song of Solomon 5 - No matter where you are or what you are doing, fix your heart on the Lord and keep alert to His voice.  You never know when He may come to have fellowship with you.  When He comes, respond to Him immediately.  A loving heart will seek the Lord, no matter what the cost.

Song of Solomon 6 - Friends may sense when you are out of fellowship with the Lord.  We know what we must do to restore our fellowship with Him.  Go to Him for His forgiveness and restoration.  As you do His beauty rests on you and you will find others enjoying His beauty in you!

Song of Solomon 7 - The Beloved tells His bride how beautiful she is to Him.  He admires us and wants us to be His.  He desires to be with us, not just our duty or service only.  He really enjoys our presence with Him.

Song of Solomon 8 - As you love your Savior, always imagine His love, experience His love, cherish His love, protect your heart to stay in love with Him, and listen as He expresses His love for you.

Now, this has been a good experience for me to study this and I hope you will find these thoughts a help to you as you read through this Love Book from God!