Song of Solomon 2
-The bride picks back her dialogue in the beginning phrase
of chapter two (Song of Solomon 2:1). The rose of Sharon and the lily of the
valleys were considered common flowers found in Israel. The girl was probably
saying something to the effect that she considered herself inadequate of
special recognition or just plain ordinary. Solomon’s response shows us
otherwise however. He considers her a lily among the harsh thorns and as a
darling (wonderful, dear, precious, superior) among all the other maidens (Song
of Solomon 2:2). The Shulammite’s response shows extreme gratitude and praise
once again (Song of Solomon 2:3-6). Notice: he is the apple of her eye, she
takes great delight in him, she can rest, he was sweet and not bitter, he
provides and sustains, he refreshes, and he embraces, all in his unfailing love.
*Application* This is a beautiful picture of not just a man and woman’s
heartfelt love, but of a God who cares for His ultimate creation, mankind. Let
the love of God saturate your life!
-As the dialogue moves forward, the king instructs the
daughters of Jerusalem not to arouse or awaken his love until she pleases (Song
of Solomon 2:7). This indicates his concern for her wellbeing and desire to
make her content and totally nurtured. *Application* Our protection and
security always comes from a higher source. God is showing us here that His
ways are beneficial to our need, and that we can be at total rest in Him
without interference.
-The bride now reflects back on their courtship and how the
king captured her heart (Song of Solomon 2:8-17). He came as she listened
making valiant efforts by climbing mountains and leaping hills. He searched her
out and invaded with an everlasting love. He responded to her needs and asked
her gently to come along with him. The winter season of stagnation and death
were over along with the spring rains, and now it was time to have the flowers
and fruit of fullness appear. The voice of the turtledove now is singing. The
time for consummation had arrived! *Application* This presents a picture of
what salvation is like for the believer. God pursued us and captured our heart
with his tender-loving mercy and grace. Thank Him for His gift of eternal
union!
-In the midst of this stanza, the bride reminds that even in
great relationships there can be trouble. The “little foxes” of our
relationships need to be caught so that they don’t ruin the fruit God desires
in our lives. “Little foxes” are minor sin issues, which if left unchecked, can
destroy what the Divine wants to accomplish in our homes and lives. They can
sneak up at the most inopportune moments and catch us by surprise if we are not
extremely careful. Pay attention to guard against the “little foxes” in your
vineyard.
Verses to Memorize: Song of Solomon 2:4, 15
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