God Delights in You

Glory???

2011-10-20T05:24:00.000-07:00

The word "glory" has captured my attention. As soon as I thought I had a grasp on what it means another sentence shows up with it used differently. So today I did a little research starting with the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. When glory is used as a noun it means: praise, honor, or distinction extended by common consent: RENOWN, 2: honor and praise rendered in worship 3: something that secures praise or renown 4: distinguishing quality or asset 5: great beauty and splendor 6: heavenly bliss 7: a height of prosperity or achievement

As a verb it means: to rejoice proudly: EXULT, be extremely joyful.

Wow, with all those meanings no wonder I am having a hard time getting a clear picture of what glory is.

Next I dug into "Vines Complete Expository Dictionary" many more word pictures to help me get a clearer understanding. The Greek word is doxa which is from dokeo "to seem"' primarily signifies an opinion, estimate and hence, the honor resulting from a good opinion.

As I read on I learned that God's glory has ever shone forth and ever will do. We can see that in the Old Testament, the shekinah glory that brightness and splendor emanating from God in the pillar cloud and in the Holy of Holies, is one way to see His glory. Yet the nature and acts of God in self-manifestation or what He essentially does and is as shown in what He reveals Himself is even harder to grasp. If we focus particularly in the person of Christ, especially in the days of His flesh we can more easily see His glory. The Bible clearly shows
God's glory when Lazarus and Jesus were resurrected, at the Mount of Transfiguration, Christ's ascension and exaltation. It is also clearly revealed through the power God displayed at creation, in His everlasting power and Divinity. God's perfection of character especially His righteousness, of which all men fall short of, signifies the might which is characteristic of His glory.

God the Father of glory is the source from whom all divine splendor and perfection proceed in their manifestation and to whom they belong. We are to give praise and acknowledge God's glory and attributes and allow Him to bring us into the likeness of Christ to exhibit the body of His glory. This state of blessedness comes when we honor, give praise and worship God hence reflecting glory back to Him.

We look forward to "the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" when He returns to fulfill our blessed hope. See Titus 2:13.

How do you picture "glory"?

The Wonders of His Person

2011-10-13T01:47:00.000-07:00

"This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike "What next Papa?" God's Spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. we know who he is and we know who we are. Father and children. And we know we are going to get what's coming to us an unbelievable inheritance! We go through the hard times with him and then we're certainly going to go through the good times with him!" Romans 8:15-17 (the Message)

As we adventurously expect our Papa to help us, let's look at a few words that help clarify some of His identity, He is our; shield, stronghold, light, strength, sustainer, rescuer, fortress...

Let us exalt Him for He is; Creator, Love, Healer, Redeemer, Shepherd, Savior, Lord, Father, Judge, Comforter, Teacher, I AM, Mighty One...

As we adore, respect, honor, love and exalt Him let's look at some of His names; YHWH=Jehovah, El aloam= everlasting faithful, El Eloyn=most High God, El Shaddai= The Almighty One, Adonai=Lord Master, HaTsur=Rock...

Some attributes of God to focus on; Jehovah Jireh= Provider, Jehovah Raah= Shepherd, Jehovah Saboath=Lord of hosts, Jehovah Rapha= my healer, Jehovah Shalom= peace, Jehovah Shammah= The Lord is there, Jehovah Elohim= The Lord God, Jehovah Nissi= my banner, Jehovah Tsidkenu= righteousness...

Since God, Jesus and the Holy spirit are " the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8) we know they are just, unchangeable,
gracious, holy, merciful, long-suffering, impartial, perfect, in control....

As we continue to progressively, deeply and more intimately become acquainted with Him we will be able to perceive and understand in ways that will continually transform us to be more like Him.

Pleasing God

2011-09-29T01:39:00.000-07:00

Today I am veering a bit from my prayer study, with something that I believe will enhance our prayer time. I recently read an article on the importance of yielding to God's echoes in our life. An echo that keeps showing up in my life is " I want to please the Lord". While studying the Psalms I saw that it is possible to please God. Psalm 147:11 really fascinated me, "The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His Mercy!. Pleasure is delight and joy, wow I can bring joy to God, the one who created this whole universe. Trying to grasp this I searched for how this happens.I looked up the word "fear" thinking it would mean that feeling that God's fist is hanging over my head ready to come down, so I better get things right. Well I was wrong, it means to show respect, awe and reverence. So it is more about what I think about God not just what I am doing. Next I dug into the word hope, which translates confident expectation with solid certainty. That means that having the faith to pray and believing God can hear me pleases God. When I believe that He is loving kindness, tender, unfailing in his love and faithful it puts a smile on His face and joy in His heart.This morning I was listening to a televangelist and he was speaking about his main focus in life is to "please God". He continued saying how important it is for us to constantly ask the Lord to help us please Him. As this thought permeates our being it should help us to make good choices, not because we don't want God to punish us, but because we want to please Him. While reading the first chapter of Ephesians I heard another echo, verse 5 "For He foreordained us to be adopted as His own children through Jesus Christ, in accordance with the purpose of His will [because it PLEASED Him and was His kind intent]." and if that is not enough Paul continues in verse 9 and 10 "Making known to us the mystery (secret) of His will (of His plan, of His purpose). And this is it, in accordance with His good PLEASURE (His merciful intention) which He has previously purposed and set forth in Him. [He planned] for the maturity of the times and the climax of the ages to unify all things and head them up and consummate them in Christ,[both] things on heaven and things on earth."It pleases God when we believe that He has everything under control and will bring everything to justice at the right time.Now as we continue to study about having a deeper prayer life does it put a smile on your face knowing you are making God happy by your desire to want to know Him more?

Apple of His Eye

2011-09-26T16:58:00.001-07:00

Do you really believe that God - Big G, the holy one who created the universe, really wants to listen to you?
I am constantly amazed how people will spend money and time to learn more details about the life's of the rich and famous. Many do whatever it takes to get the latest gossip about people who do not even know that the person learning about them even exists. Yet God our Father, the richest most famous one in all the world, who freely sent His son to die for us and Jesus the one who gave His all are ignored. Most have no time for Them.

Do we really believe that the veil was ripped in half, making a way for us to walk right into the presence of God and talk with Him?

Here is a way to picture the Lord so you can learn more deeply that you are "the apple of His eye". Have you ever attended an event such as a concert or sporting event in which someone you love, say a child, niece, nephew, grand child are a participant? Did that child scan the crowd of spectators over and over until their eyes met yours. That moment of eye contact their eyes lit up and you smiled back as you communicated to them "I am here for you". That my friend is what Jesus is doing, looking at you patiently waiting for the two of you to connect. He is watching and ready for you to make contact so He can lovingly say let's talk.

When we really grasp how our Father the creator of the universe wants us to stop and give Him some of our time so He can love us and show us how much He cares for us, it makes our prayer time one of the best times of our day.

I recently learned a new song that asks the Lord to "remind me one more time, who I am to you". He reminds us that we are the Lord's beloved.

Pray today that you can get a deeper understanding of who you are to the Lord!

His Kingdom Come

2011-09-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

"What if you woke up today with only the things you thanked God for yesterday?" My niece recently posted this on her Facebook as did I. It really is a good way to check our heart. What are you thankful for?"Thy Kingdom come". When we pray this what things are being said? According to Gordon it should make us aware that there is another kingdom and the will of it's king is being done. It is God's will that the "other will" be undone. We must be aware of this so we can carefully choose which kingdom we are working for and which battles we are to engage in.David Wilkerson has shared with his readers, "His (Satan) strategy is to turn your gaze onto 'how bad things are going to get,' rather than onto God's promises to see you through every crisis." The battle and struggles are real, even unbelievers can sense the cosmic turmoil going on in the world today.Andrew Murray reminds us that as Jesus taught us to pray "Thy kingdom come" he taught us to acknowledge our Father as our King. Jesus's greatest ambition is to show others the glory of our Father's kingdom. This kingdom is not fully manifested, and we His children are living in the enemies territory. The people, creatures and earth groan and depend on the great event of God's kingdom being fully manifested. Meanwhile as His children we can allow God's kingdom to enter into our hearts, by living a life of adoring submission and ready obedience. Murray puts it this way, "The surrender to, and the prayer for a life of heaven-like obedience, is the spirit of childlike prayer."This week let's continually invite God's kingdom onto this earth, into our lives, neighborhoods, churches, and each person we cross paths with. Little by little we can be more Christ like, by allowing God's will to change us.

Your Will Be Done

2011-09-18T01:06:00.000-07:00

So how is the quiet time going? Is you view of God's love expanding? What adjustments to your daily routine have you made, or need to make. Are you finding that you have more of an awareness of God throughout your day?

As we learn to surrender more of ourself and listen to the Lord here are a few things Matthew Henry suggests we pray for; humility and meekness, contentment and patience, fear of God, rooted in faith and love, unrooted from the world, a tender conscience, a life of repentance, charity and self denial. He continues to instruct that we ask for the Grace to be perfected, sustain new life, do as we should, sanctified nature, escape temptation, make wise choices, govern our tongue, bring truth to memory, instruction in the things of God, with intelligence and wisdom.

Both Murray and Gorden go into great detail using the inspiration for all prayer the words Jesus taught. Starting with "Our Father", acknowledging His loving readiness to hear and help. Meditating on the relationship we have because Jesus made God our father too. Thinking about our personal relation to the living God all open our heart to more deeply commune with the Lord.

Gorden claims that the "greatest" prayer is to echo the words of Jesus, "thy will be done". When we utter those words we are saying that God is strong and powerful, good, wise, pure and holy. We acknowledge that we are unable to even grasp what those word really mean. "God's will is His desires, His purposes, that which He wishes to occur, and that to which He gives His strength that it may occur." Which is infinitely more than we can think or imagine.

Spend the next few days dwelling on the thoughts of, My Daddy, my Father reveal who you are to me. Help me understand a little more what you want done here on earth and then give me the strength, courage and ability to do my part.

Leave a comment on what you are hearing.

Right standing

2011-09-14T09:46:00.000-07:00

How is it going? Have you found a secret place? Well I must confess that my quiet and study time has been usurped by many things. I am not going to make a list of excuses just let you know I am human and struggle too. I was very happy to be reminded by Paul in his letter to the Galations 3:2 "Let me ask you one question: Did you receive the Spirit as the result of obeying the Law and doing it's works...?"

And in(3:11) "Now it is evident that no person is justified (declared righteous and brought into right standing with God) through the Law, for the Scripture says, The man in right standing with God shall live by and out of faith and he who through and by faith declared righteous and in right standing with God shall live".

I know that what Christ has done for me is what places me in right standing with God, nothing that I can do myself. Yet, I sometimes deal with guilt that I am not praying enough. When I bring this "feeling" to the Lord, I am reminded not only to not allow emotions to rule me but that I am doing more things "right" and need not dwell on any failures.

I have noticed many more quick "I love you" and " Lord, your creation is so awesome, thank you for loving me" prayers ascending upward.

I encourage you to keep going forward, asking for guidance each step of the way. Onward as we dig deeper into prayer.

Alone With God

2011-09-05T01:37:00.000-07:00

Getting alone with God can be one of the biggest challenges a Christian faces. Instead of feeling guilty and just not getting around to it we need to ask for help in finding a secret place. Meditating on God, and realizing that His living presence is everywhere. We just need to shut out the world, surrender ourself with simple childlike faith, take time to listen so we can hear what the Lord has to say.

Eventually we realize that prayer, or spending time in God's presence is the highest privilege of life. As we enter into the Inner chamber, a spiritual sanctuary, available any time because of the blood of Jesus we spend time with the Invisible One, this brings joy and blessing beyond our wildest dreams. Before the veil was torn at the time of Jesus's death only one man was allowed into God's tabernacle within the veil, once a year, now that the high price was paid for us to enter we can't just ignore such a honor.

The thought that the creator of the universe wants me to come and meet with Him so I can breathe in His love, and get to know His fatherliness more intimately is mind boggling. Yet, He is always waiting, ever ready to be found.

So how do we get to this solitary place. The physical location can vary from day to day but it is important to take the time and find a place where you can experience quiet. I would recommend a place where you will not be bothered, this means getting away from your phone and computer, or anything else that will distract you. I once heard a story of a very busy young mother with numerous children, she would sometimes swing her apron up over her head in the midst of a busy room and make that her quiet place. It will take some effort on your part, but it is worth it.

Andrew Murray explained, "Dwell much in the inner chamber, with the door shut—shut in from men, shut up with God; it is there the Father waits you, it is there Jesus will teach you to pray. To be alone in secret with the Father: this be your highest joy."

Okay I found a place now what? Murray recommends that you " think of His love", dwell on "how much He wants to give", look into His face and say "my daddy". "Do not think of how little you have to bring God, but how much He wants to give you." Take this time in the " inner chamber" to listen carefully realizing that time spent with God is never fruitless. If you did not have a good father figure in your life it is okay to imagine what a "perfect father" would look like to you. Open up you bible and slowly look at a few verses, do not read too much. Psalms are a great place to meditate.

Gorden reminds us that God promised that when we call Him, He will answer. It is important to keep in mind that Satan has kingship of the earth but God is eager to swing it back to it's original sway but He needs the help of man. There is much theological debate on how God is influenced by prayer. Gordan capsulized it like this, "Prayer does not influence God. Prayer surely does influence God. It does not influence His purpose. It does influence His action."

For the next few days just focus on finding your secret place, then commune with God. Fellowship, breathe in His love as you adore and worship Him.

True Rounded Prayer

2011-09-01T01:28:00.000-07:00

As I learn more on prayer from the three theologians I am studying I see that they all agree that the very first thing is to humble ourselves and beg the Spirit's assistance.

Matthew Henry spends a great deal of time focusing on the sin nature and our need to confess. I do believe we need to make sure we are not going to God with any unconfessed sin, because Jesus told us not too. So let's take a minute and ask the Lord for guidance as we confess that we are blind in our understanding, have a stubbornness of will, vain thoughts, carnal affections, transgressions in, thought, word and deed, fretfulness, impatience and a lack of love for people.

Andrew Murray explains how we need to "not think of how little you have to bring to God, but how much He wants to give you."

Now we can give glory to God for His unmeasurable patience, love and mercy that washes us clean and know that the blessings are not as dependent on our prayers as they are on the love and power of our Father.

Gorden simply divides prayer into three categories, communion, petition and intercession.

Communion is fellowship with God, enjoying, loving and adoring Him. It is an upward movement that professes that God and I are on good terms. My part is to confess and His is to forgive. It is a time to focus on the one true God, focusing on how beautiful, intelligent, strong, lovable and unfathomable He is.

The second part is "petition" a request of God for something I need. It is a downward movement through a door in which only I can open, and where God waits on the other side for me to enter.

Third, "intercession" is when we reach out for others, this outward motion allows God's power to move. It confirms that we are allies with
God. We become His pathway to other human hearts so His great love-plan for winning can be fully accomplished.

According to Gorden, "True prayer moves in a circle. It begins in the heart of God, sweeps down into a human heart upon the earth, so intersecting the circle of the earth, which is the battle-field of prayer, and then it goes back again to its starting point, having accomplished its purpose on the downward swing."

Let us together enter into "true rounded prayer" as we commune, intercede and petition God.

God does NOT use Force

2011-08-29T03:55:00.000-07:00

As I try to grasp a deeper understanding on prayer I like the simple illustrations that Gorden uses. He explains the cosmic battle of conflict going on is to see who controls the earth. God does not use force, but Satan uses physical force through man to gain ground.

Prayer is described as "projecting one's spirit personality where it exerts positive influence by doing business with other spirits. Jesus is the Victor and we need to insist and claim his purity and righteousness against the enemy. "Prayer is man giving God a footing on contested territory of this earth."

"The Victor has a deep love-ambition to win, not merely against the enemy, but into men's hearts, by their free consent. and so, with marvelous love-born wisdom and courage, the conflict is left open, for men's sake."

Andrew Murray shows why worship is such an important part of prayer by quoting Jesus, "God is Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth." God gets joy from our worship which is an intelligent way of of becoming in harmony in the spirit realm through Jesus.

Murray continues, "In Him the blessings and powers of the eternal life are our actual possession and experience. Jesus is full of grace and truth; the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth; through Him the grace that is in Jesus is ours indeed, and truth a positive communication out of the Divine life. And so worship in spirit is worship in truth; actual living fellowship with God, a real correspondence and harmony between the Father, who is a Spirit, and the child praying in the spirit. The worship of the Father is only possible to those to whom the Spirit of the Son has been given. The worship in spirit is only possible to those to whom the Son has revealed the Father, and who have received the spirit of Sonship. It is only Christ who opens the way and teaches the worship in spirit."

Matthew Henry in the first chapter of "Method for Prayer" echoes Murray in the need for us to ask the Spirit for assistance in prayer as we aim for God's Glory.

Lord, our hearts long to pray in spirit and truth, we ask you to teach us this blessed secret. Amen.

Prayer is Power

2011-08-25T03:17:00.000-07:00

I have discovered another great book with info on prayer. It is called "Quiet Talks on Prayer" by Samuel Dickey Gorden". It was written in 1904. He begins by explaining that prayer is power, this power has only one inlet but five outlets. God's Spirit is the inlet for this power, we can transfer that power by "what we are" or who we were created to be, by "what we say", our service to others, our money and prayer.

He explains how service is an awesome calling but is limited to one place at one time since we need to take breaks to eat and sleep. Other limits on service are our temperament, prejudices of people, walls and locks.

Prayer is a simple, secret service that has fewer limitations, is even greater than service because it is the pipeline God uses to touch a befooled world. "Prayer puts us in direct dynamic touch with a world." it also "makes it possible for God to do what otherwise He could not do."

Gorden believed that "We can do no thing of real power until we have done the prayer thing." He continues to explain that our life is a struggle for existence as we go about doing our daily life of working, serving and giving. Life as we know it now is pretty narrow and limited but when we allow God's love to reach us and teach us to use our "inner eyes" we can look into His face and see a broad realm with no limits. The true Christian life is working with and for God.

"And with a spirit touched with glad awe that he can and may help God, and a heart full alike of peace and of yearning and a life fragrant with an unseen Presence he goes steadily on his way, towards the dawning day."

As we go along on this journey of learning more on how to pray let us ask the Lord to give us a deeper understanding of how powerful prayer really is. Entering into this wonderful privilege of communication with our triune God listen for the thoughts and lessons He is breathing into you and share them with me.

Teach us to Pray.

2011-08-19T06:20:00.001-07:00

I am ready to embark on a journey where my heart's desire is to get a deeper understanding about prayer, and to gain the ability to "pray without ceasing". I would love to have others join me and share their insights along the way.

I started by uploading a couple e-books. The first "Method of Prayer" by Matthew Henry, the next "Lord, Teach Us To Pray" by Andrew Murray. I encourage you to upload these free books too.

Here are some of the things I learned today.
"I must with fixed attention and an application of mind and an active lively faith, set the Lord before me, see his eye upon me, and set myself in his special presence, offering my body to him as a living sacrifice"(Henry). We need to learn how to reverentially adore God and acknowledge his infinite and eternal spirit along with his innumerable attributes. Trusting that God has perfect knowledge of all people and things because he sees everything, even secret things with a clear and unerring view. His truth is invariable and the treasure of his goodness is inexhaustible.

Murray explains in the opening chapter that Jesus had a secret life of prayer that the apostles saw and wanted to tap into. They did not ask the Lord how to preach, but asked several times "teach us to pray". Jesus is delighted to bring anyone who desires into closer fellowship with him and to teach them how to pray.

Prayer is a rather simple thing, yet it is the highest and holiest work to which any person can rise. It is fellowship with the unseen and Most Holy One. It places the powers of the eternal world into our being because it is the channel of all blessings and the secret of power and life.
It is how we take hold of God and his strength.

Murray believed that the coming of God's kingdom depends on our prayers. Yet, we really don't know how to pray as we should, or at least how to fully surrender to God's glory and his will. The perseverance needed can only be learned in "the school of much prayer". We all struggle with the painful consciousness of our ignorance and unworthiness, struggling between doubt and believing that our prayers are effective. We need to sense our ignorance and accept by faith that He is the perfect teacher.

Jesus has all the attributes that every good teacher strives to achieve, he is perfect, the best teacher, he is patient, loves his pupils and he lives now to pray for us.

"Nothing delights him more than to find one whom he can take with him into the Father's presence, whom he can clothe with power to pray down God's blessings on those around them, whom he can train to be his fellow workers in the intercession by which the kingdom is to be
revealed on earth"(Murray ).

The Great intercessor lives and breathes in us, giving us thoughts on what and how to pray. So let us ask him to give us a course on how to pray without ceasing and stand in his presence, as we let go of what we think we know and learn more of this wonderful privilege and power of prayer.

Can you say, "I feel blameless"?

2011-07-27T03:25:00.000-07:00

What is conscience and how can we have a "perfectly good conscience"? According to Vine's the original word is sunidesis (4893) and means "a knowing with" , "a co-knowledge (with oneself), the witness borne to one's conduct by conscience, that faculty by which we apprehend the will of God, as that which is designed to govern our lives".

There are many verses in the New Testament where conscience is mentioned. It is our job to make sure that our conscience is clear, unshaken and blameless according to Paul in Acts 24:16. He said that he always exercised and disciplined himself by deadening carnal affections and bodily appetites. This also brought him to a point where he felt totally blameless and void of an offense he had toward God or men.

Our conscience can also be very weak and cause us to feel guilty when it should be clear. A seared conscience is created when a person turns from faith and gives attention to deluding and seducing spirits (I Tim 4:2).

When we offer thanksgiving to God we can worship Him with a pure conscience (II Cor. 1:3). If our heart and conscience are pure all things are pure and our life will show it. (Titus 1:15-16)

So what are we to do? "Let us all come forward and draw near with true (honest and sincere) hearts in unqualified assurance and absolute conviction engendered by faith (by that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence in His power, wisdom and goodness), having our hearts sprinkled and purified from a guilty conscience and our bodies cleansed with pure water" Hebrews 13:18.

In "baptism, which is a figure (of deliverance), does now also save you [ from inward questions and fears] not by the removing of outward body filth [bathing], but by providing you with the answer of a good and clear conscience (inward cleanness and peace) before God [because you are demonstrating what you believe to be yours] through the resurrection of Jesus Christ" I peter 3:21.

Do you deal with an awareness of guilt? Ask the Lord to help you see how He sees you and how you can come to a point where you "feel blameless" just like Paul did even after he had many people killed and tortured for being Christian. He found that grace and mercy washes away all sin no matter how large it was, God's love is bigger.

Day 117 ~ Come Lord Jesus!

2011-04-27T01:55:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

Make haste, my beloved, and be thou like to a roe or to a young hart upon the mountains of spices (The Song of Solomon 8:14).

The bride's heart cry is for her beloved to hurry back swiftly as a young deer runs up a mountain side. She does not want him to depart but she understands that a king must go about his business. She trusts that he will be back as quickly as he can. He has given her a job to do, to dwell in the pleasant gardens while she waits and longs for his return.

When the bride lovingly tells her groom to make haste she uses the Hebrew word (1272) baw-rakh' a primitive root meaning to bolt, flee suddenly, chase away, drive away, make haste. The word she uses for mountain is a shortened version of the one used earlier. In Hebrew it is (2022) rh har and means a mountain or range of hills.

God has chosen Israel and loves her with an everlasting love. She will always be His first love but her rebellion caused a type of separation which made way for our (Gentile) redemption. God the Ancient of Days, knew all along that He would keep His promise to bless and redeem those who love Him. For the Lord has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His dwelling place: This is My resting place forever; Here I will dwell, for I have desired it. I will abundantly bless her provision; I will satisfy her poor with bread. I will also clothe her priests with salvation, and her saints with joy. There I will make the horn (government) of David grow; I will prepare a lamp for My Anointed. His enemies I will clothe with shame, But upon Himself His crown shall flourish” (Psalm 132:13-18).

The whole theme of this magnificent love song is encapsulated in another song of love titled “The Glories of the Messiah and His Bride.” Please read this slowly and think about Jesus our groom coming to take you His bride.

“My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the King; my tongue is the pen of a ready writer. You are fairer than the sons of men; grace is poured upon Your lips; therefore God has blessed You forever. Gird Your sword upon Your thigh, O Mighty One, with Your glory and Your majesty. And in Your majesty ride prosperously because of truth, humility, and righteousness; and Your right hand shall teach You awesome things. Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the Kings enemies; the peoples fall under You. Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions. All Your garments are scented with myrrh and aloes and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, by which they have made You glad. Kings' daughters are among Your honorable women; at Your right hand stands the queen in gold from Ophir. Listen, O daughter, consider and incline your ear; Forget you own people also, and your father's house; so the King will greatly desire your beauty; because He is your Lord, worship Him. And the daughter of Tyre will come with a gift; the rich among the people will seek your favor. The royal daughter is all glorious within the palace; her clothing is woven with gold. She shall be brought to the King in robes of many colors; the virgins, her companions who follow her, shall be brought to You. With gladness and rejoicing they hall be brought; they shall enter the King's palace. Instead of Your fathers shall be Your sons, whom You shall make princes in all the earth. I will make Your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore the people shall praise Your forever and ever (Psalm 45:1-17).

Do you see the similarities from the Song of Solomon and this Psalm? Heart, swords, lips, glory, humility, righteousness, anointed, garments, oil ... When the psalmist penned “Forget your own people” he is explaining how important it is to break from ones culture of birth. For the bride of Christ it means that we need to forsake the world and our very own selfishness to be one with Him.

The musician explains that new sons will be born as the bride leaves behind her father. This new generation brings a joy and peace that relieves the pain of leaving the old behind.

Our King Jesus has gone to the mountain of spices, attending to his Father's business and interceding for us as He builds our heavenly homes. Patiently waiting for Father God to give Him the word that all is ready and that He may return to get us, His bride.

In the meantime, while we long for His second coming, we need to keep our lamps filled with fresh oil. Remembering that His Holy Spirit is here and we are not alone. Anticipating His return, sometimes with great anxiety we wrestle and strive to be nearer to the lover of our soul. It is important to remind each other that He has not promised to provide a detailed map of our life. He has given us tools that can be used like a compass showing us what direction we are heading, reminding us where we have been and giving us hope for the future.

In the scriptures we read; “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds;”(Hebrews 1:1-2).

Let me conclude with these words from the scriptures that we can look forward to as we prepare for the wedding of all times the one where we peasants become one with the King of Kings. “Come I will show you the bride, the Lamb's wife, And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, having the glory of God. Her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal” (Revelation 21:9b-11) Jesus said, “Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book” (Revelation 22:7).

Again our Lord says “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with ME, to give to every one according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and Last: (Revelation 22:12-13). “And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come! And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17).

I challenge you to go back and reread each of these devotionals and let me know how they have helped you get to know your groom more closely.

Day 116 ~ Who's Your Helper?

2011-04-26T01:54:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Thou that dwellest in the gardens, the companions hearken to thy voice; cause me to hear it (The Song of Solomon 8:13).

These extraordinary lovers must depart from each others presence for a while. The king has some business he must attend to. He is expressing his desire for her to keep an eye on the gardens. Together they each make it known that they will continue to keep each other foremost in their thoughts and stay in touch how ever possible. They promise that a continual inner dialog will be going on in their heart and mind pledging to remember each others voices. Reminding each other that they are not really alone, as each has some companions to assist them with what they need to do. The people who surround them will also help them keep the memories of each other alive and fresh. Sorrow may try to creep in but the helpers will remind each of the young lovers of the great precious promises they have made to one another, speaking about them with sweet words and sharing how delightful the reunion will be when he returns.

The Hebrew word for dwellest is the primitive root word (3427) yaw-shab' meaning to, inhabit sit down, dwell remain, settle, to marry, abide. The bride must stay in the gardens while the groom goes away to do his father's business, but her king would never leave her unassisted, without aid and support.

Companions is the word (2270) khaw-bare' in Hebrew and means an associate, companion, fellow, knit together. You and I are not here on earth alone, we have each other so we can edify, encourage and respect each other. We also have God's precious Holy Spirit His helper sent to teach us all things. The queen has the fellow gardeners and maid servants to assist her. The bridegroom had an entourage of helpers, advisers and fellow business men to aid him in getting his work done.

Unlike this stunning bride willing to do what her groom asks, Israel refused to listen to God's voice. “But My people would not heed my voice, and Israel would have none of Me. So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart, to walk in their own counsels. Oh that My people would listen to Me, That Israel would walk in My ways! I would soon subdue their enemies, and turn My hand against their adversaries (Psalm 81:11-14).

Jesus comforted the disciples preparing them for a time when He would have to depart. “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself' that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know” (John 14:1-4). Jesus continued, explaining how He and Father God are one and that the disciples can complete the tasks before them. Then He promises another helper is to come, “And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper that He may abide with you forever- the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you” (John 14: 16-18).

Just as the King promised that the garden companions would assist the bride, Jesus explained how the Holy Spirit is our helper, “These things I have spoken to you while being present with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you (John 14:25-26).

When Paul had to be away from some of those he loved in Laodicea he wrote this desire that he had for them, “that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:2-3).

Do you feel lonely and discouraged sometimes? The Lord does not want us to be totally comfortable here on earth. He has put a deep longing inside of us to be with Him that can not be completely filled in this world. We need His Holy Spirit, Word and others in His body to assist us until He returns or we go to be with Him. What do you need to do to have a deeper companionship with others? Who do you comfort with God's words? Write down some practical steps you can do today to assist others and allow others to assist you as we go about our Father's business.

Day 115 ~ What Does Your Garden Look Like?

2011-04-25T01:53:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks directly to Solomon)
My vineyard, which is mine, is before me; thou, O Solomon, must have a thousand, and those that keep the fruit thereof two hundred (The Song of Solomon 8:12).

Even though the bride calls the garden hers, she ultimately knows that it is the kings. He is the one who is taking care of it, not alone but by hiring vine keepers. She understands that trying to take care of something this large in her own strength would be in vain. The woman has learned that when doing things in a Godly order God expects His followers to work together in unity.

Our High King brings great reward. especially when we are working in unity with others, in doing so a much greater harvest is cultivated and gathered.

God sings over His bride Israel. “In that day sing to her, a vineyard of red wine (delight)! I, the Lord, keep it, I water it every moment; Lest any hurt it, I keep it night and day” (Isaiah 27:2).

Now let's look at how Jesus explains what has happened between God and Israel using the vineyard in his parable to get His point across. “Hear another parable; There was a certain landowner who planted a vineyard and set a hedge around it, dug a wine press in it and built a tower. And he leased it to vine dressers and went into a far country. 'Now when vintage-time drew near, he sent his servants to the vine dressers, that they might receive its fruit. 'And the vine dressers took his servants, beat one, killed one, and stoned another. ' Again he sent other servants, more than the first, and they did likewise to them. 'Then last of all he sent his son to them, saying, “They will respect my son.” 'But when the vine dressers saw the son, they said among themselves. 'This is the heir, Come, let us kill him and seize his inheritance.' 'So they took him and cast him out of the vineyard and killed him. 'Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vine dressers?' They said to Him, 'He will destroy those wicked men miserably, and lease his vineyard to other vine dressers who will render to him the fruits in their seasons."

Jesus said to them, ' Have you never read the Scriptures; ' The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken from you and given to a nation bearing fruits of it. And whoever falls on this stone will be broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind them to powder.' Now when the chief priests and Pharisees heard His parables, they knew that He was speaking of them” (Matthew 21:33-45 ).

There are many lessons to be learned from vineyards, gardens and doing things God's way. We know that our King has entrusted us to take care of His vineyard, the church, and we know He always has His eye upon it. Our heart is also a private vineyard in which Jesus is seeking fruit from us. He is looking for glory and honor as we do service to bring others into His kingdom.

Where ever you spend most of your time you will find His garden, that means at work, out in the community or even inside your home. In what part of the vineyard are you working? Write it down in your journal. Now what is your job there? Are you planting seed? Pruning? Harvesting?

Day 114 ~ Do You Abide in Him?

2011-04-24T01:52:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks) Solomon had a vineyard at Baalhamon; he let out the vineyard unto keepers; every one for the fruit thereof was to bring a thousand pieces of silver (The Song of Solomon 8:11).

In the beginning of this song 1:6 the bride was upset that she had worked so hard in her families vineyard. She was so busy working for them that she had neglected her own garden. Now that she has matured she is viewing things differently. Looking at her king's vineyard in Palestine, she is enchanted with it's stunning magnificence. This luscious garden is well cared for by a multitude of people, and is producing much fruit. There is so much produce that it's worth can not be measured in money it is priceless.

The woman is changed and has become valuable beyond measure because she spent time with the master.

The word Baalhamon (1174) bah'-al is referring to the actual historical site of Solomon's vineyard and literally means lord (possessor) of abundance" or processor of a multitude.

When the bride speaks of the keepers she uses a Hebrew primitive root word (5201) naw-tar' which means; to guard, to cherish, bear, keep reserve.

This symbolic love song continues to echo God's love for Israel. Here is what God has to say about Israel His vineyard. “'Now let me sing to my Well-beloved a song of my Beloved regarding His vineyard; My Well-beloved has a vineyard on a very fruitful hill. He dug it up and cleared out its stones, and planted it with the choicest vine. He built a tower in its midst. And also made a wine press in it: so He expected it to bring forth good grapes, but it brought forth wild grapes. And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem and men of Judah, judge, please, between Me and My vineyard. What more could have been done to My vineyard that I have not done in it? Why then, when I expected it to bring forth good grapes. Did it bring forth wild grapes? And now please let Me tell you what will I do to My vineyard. I will take away its hedge, and it shall be burned; and break down its wall, and it shall be trampled down. I will lay it waste; it shall not be pruned or dug, but there shall come up briers and thorns. I will also command the clouds that they ran no rain on it.' For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are His pleasant plant. He looked for justice, but behold oppression; for righteousness, but behold, a cry for help” (Isaiah 5:1-7).

Because Israel choose to walk away from God a way was made for us to enter a love relationship with God through Jesus. I know I shared this verse earlier but it bears repeating because it shows how lovingly Jesus takes care of us, if we cling on to Him. “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vine dresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away: and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples” (John 15:1-8).

We the church, His bride are His vineyard we are a peculiar and pleasant place where He loves to dwell. Jesus is looking for fruit in this garden He expects to find pleasant grapes and enjoy the benefits and privileges of the vineyard. “And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. For in this the saying is true; One sows and another reaps.' I sent you to reap that for which you have labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors” (John 4:36-38).

Has God ever asked you to return to a place that you once despised? Called you to minister to some you may have mistreated before you allowed Him to change you. In order to do this you must abide in Him. Are you?

Day 113 ~ How is Your Foundation?

2011-04-23T01:51:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks) I am a wall, and my breasts like towers: then was I in his eyes as one that found favor (Song of Solomon 8:10).

The queen bride now makes her final confession of who she is in her relationship with the king. She is recognizing and proclaiming that she is a wall built up by the king. Her ministry is to protect with a holy passion the ones put in her care.

This is the third and final time she is called a tower and the eighth time that her breasts have been mentioned. This humble woman gives credit of her growth and maturity to the favor she has found in her kings view of her. A confidence has developed in this woman that reveals who she is in her husband's eyes.

The only care that this lovely bride has is “what does he think of me”? She could care less what anyone else thinks about her. She knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is walking in a peace from God that can never, ever be taken away from her.

The scriptures are filled with promises that God our king, is the one who shows favor to those who are dedicated to Him. “The LORD makes poor and makes rich; He brings low and lifts up. He raises the poor from the dust, and lifts the beggar from the ash heap. To set them among princes, and make them inherit the throne of glory. For the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and He has set the world upon them. He will guard the feet of His saints, but the wicked shall be silent in darkness. For by strength no man shall prevail” (1 Samuel 2: 7-9).

God often addresses Israel specifically with His promises, here is just one more example; “For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name's sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you His people” (1 Samuel 12:22).

The bride found favor in the love and acceptance of her groom but she also knew that it originally comes from God.

Mary the mother of Jesus needed favor to fulfill her part in our Savior's life. She needed an unshakable faith while she watched her young child grow up, travel, be rejected, crucified and die. She knew that God was in control. The scriptures record that she was told by an angel “Do not be afraid, Mary for you have found favor with God” (Luke1:30). “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” (Luke 2:52).

Even the Son of God needed the favor of God to help Him complete His Father ordained journey on this earth. The word found is (4672) maw-tsaw' in Hebrew, it is a primitive root word that means to come forth to, appear or exist; to attain, find or acquire

In Hebrew the word for favor is (7965) shaw-lome' and it means completeness, soundness, welfare, peace safe, well, happy, friendly, health, prosperity, quiet, tranquility, contentment, with God especially in covenant relationship.

The bride understands that she is one with her king. United together they are very strong team, one that is able to nourish, protect and help others.

The milk this delightful woman shares is the milk of the word.

A strong tower needs a strong foundation, or it will fall. The bride knows where her strength comes from since she is aware of the Psalmist's words. “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Mercy and truth go before Your face” (Psalm 89:14).

God has established a foundation to build upon. A wall must have a firm and strong foundation to begin with or it will not be strong, straight or last.

When we walk in His righteousness, mercy and truth we become a wall for others and future generations. “He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded (well built) on the rock” (Luke 6:48).

Is Jesus your foundation? Is your wall, your life strong and solid? What are you building it on? Where is your time spent? Digging deep into His word?

Day 112 ~ Are You a Wall or a Gate?

2011-04-22T01:50:00.000-07:00

If she be a wall, we will build upon her a palace of silver: and if she be a door, we will inclose her with boards of cedar (The Song of Solomon 8:9).

As the little sister is being discussed by either the brothers or spouses a plan starts to develop. These loved ones want to help the little sister mature and grow safely and securely.

First they will figure out if she is a wall. A strong structure with an established foundation, protected from the evil of this world, or a barrier that has been damaged. Has this young lass left an opening where an enemy can slip in, if she has, they will carefully fortify, help and protect her. Doors are also used to let allies in and if she is managing her door well she will use it to bring others into the kingdom.

There is a great deal of information in the bible of the importance of walls. A time is recorded when the walls of Jerusalem were broken down and the gates had been burned up by fire. Nehemiah the prophet challenged the people to show their faith and help to change things.

First he prayed for God's people asking what could be done for those who had escaped and survived captivity. He began to intercede, fasting, mourning and weeping. He begged God to forgive the children of Israel for quite a long time. In chapter 2 he begins secretly to survey how damaged the walls are. Some laughed at him when he suggested that they begin to fix the wall.

But Nehemiah replied “And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king's words that he had spoken to me. So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then they set their hands to this good work” (Nehemiah 2:18).

The reconstruction begins, over forty groups worked together on this tremendous challenge either repairing or completely building a new wall. This was a foreshadowing of the unity of work and purpose of the church to come. It also shows how the Father, Son and Holy Spirit work together carrying on, crowning and blessing in an orderly manner all that is necessary to be done.

Walls are intended for defense or security and are also used to enclose a city or building. It is important to God that we are not like a broken down fence or wall.

To keep our walls built up we need to know God's word and apply it to our life controlling what we do properly. “Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls” (Proverb 25:28). The Hebrew word for wall is (2346) kho-maw' it means to join or a wall of protection.

The family of the little sister are willing to join together and do what is necessary to help make her safe.

The word used for palace is the Hebrew word (1964) hay-kawl' it means a wall, hence a fortress or a hamlet, castle, habitation some translate it as the word battlement. It was a high place on the wall used by the watchmen to look for the enemy and defend everyone within the walls. These high towers were not made of silver but stone, clay or wood. It is believed that the word silver used in this verse is symbolically pointing to the power of the Holy Spirit and the weapons that are not of the flesh but of God. (2 Corinthians 10:4-5)

In the scripture David says “I will wait for You, O You his Strength; For God is my defense” (Psalm 59:9). Defense literally means fortress. David is acknowledging that he is taking refuge in a more secure place than any other, in God his high tower.

The last part of this verse speaks of the door. When a new wall was built around a city the last thing that was done to complete the wall and make the city secure, was to hang the doors. “Then it was, when the wall was built and I had hung the doors, when the gatekeepers, the singers, and the Levities had been appointed, that I gave the charge of Jerusalem to my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the leader of the palace, for he was a faithful man and feared God more than many. And I said to them, “Do not let the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun is hot; and while the stand guard, let them shut the bar the doors; and appoint guards from among the inhabitants of Jerusalem, one at his watch station and another in front of his own house” (Nehemiah 7:1-3).

“The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob” (Psalm 87:2).

Doors are also called gates and are a symbol of strength and security. When Jesus said to Peter that the gates of Hades shall not prevail against His church. (Matthew 16:18) Jesus was making sure that Peter knew that even the power of death can not stop the advance of the kingdom, nor claim victory over His bride.

The word build is (1129) baw-naw' in Hebrew, a primitive root word that means to build, make and repair but can also mean to obtain children. In God's order when the church stays protected within His walls and do things the way He requires they are protected and will multiply. Bringing new loved ones into His Kingdom, some born of the body and others of the spirit.

Are you a wall? Are you a gate? Do you have friends who you can ask to help you? Both are necessary in the body of Christ but they function differently. Are you interceding and providing protection for others? Or is it easier for you to invite others in?

Day 111 ~ He Sees Your Heart

2011-04-21T01:47:00.000-07:00

We have a little sister, and she hath no breasts what shall we do for our sister in the day when she shall be spoken for (The Song of Solomon 8:8).

This song once again leaves room for the reader to interpret who is speaking. Some believe that the brothers of the Shulamite are entering the picture and are speaking of their sister. Others have interpreted it as the two lovers are speaking collectively of one of their sisters. And others think it is the bride who is concerned for her own little sister, asking her husband to care for this little sibling and provide what is needed just like he has for her.

This we know, the spouses have confirmed their love with expressive words and have pledged their love to each other until death causes them to part. Committed to each other, yoked together with their hearts and heads side by side they are ready to consider how this unity can be applied to their other relationships and their estates.

There is a strong sense of responsibility. The first order of business in their co-responsibility is to work together to help bring their little sister to maturity. Concerned about her future they begin to discuss what to do to prepare her for the betrothal time and the joys of marriage.

Applying this song to biblical history we can compare. The bride as Israel or as the Jewish Church, a mature bride. The little sister could represent the Gentile world. Looking at God's story, recorded history and the Bible we know that Israel is God's chosen elect but because they rejected Him, God sent Jesus to redeem the Gentiles, and make anyone who chooses to be a part of His bride, the way to do so. “I say then, have they (Israel) stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!” (Romans 11:11-12).
Israel is still God's chosen and will receive His fullness of reward but now a way has been made for everyone to come to Him. Many Jews believe that the Gentiles share God and Adam as their fathers, making them siblings or as described in this verse a young sister.

The world is a stranger to the covenant promises of God, with no to little knowledge of God, no divine revelation, no scriptures, no instructions to draw out or (suck for nourishment) and give to their own children. This is yet another reason for us to be bring those of this world into our Kings presence. “Therefore it is also contained in the Scripture, “Behold, I lay in Zion a chief cornerstone, elect, precious, and he who believed on Him will by no means be put to shame.” Therefore, to you who believe, He is precious; but to those who are disobedient, 'The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.” and “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense” They stumble, being disobedient to the word, to which they also were appointed. But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy” (1 Peter 2:6-10).

The Hebrew word spoken is (1696) daw-bar' it is a primitive root word that means to commune, arrange, answer, appoint, declare, promise, pronounce talk together. Can you see how God with the Holy Spirit have arranged for our betrothal and marriage to Jesus since before time began.

In the Book of Ester we learn that King Xerxes noticed Ester's humble heart and willingness to serve. She had no pedigree or family heritage that would have lined her up to become the queen of Persia. She had no earthly way to earn her the position of queen, yet God allowed the King to see something that won his favor.

God looks at our obedience and our heart not our lineage or our past. He wants us to walk in the grace of Christ and then present the truth of His word to others so they too can become part of the great design of being converted from death to the spouse of Christ.

Are you more like a little sister or a big sister? Are you bringing others into a relationship with Jesus or do you still need help growing up? It is fine if you still have growing up to do, we all mature at a different level and we can never meet full maturity here on earth. Ask the Lord to show you where you are growing, where you need to grow more and who in your life is a “little sister” that you need to help mature.

Day 110 ~ Unquenchable Love

2011-04-20T01:45:00.000-07:00

Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned (The Song of Solomon 8:7).

This fascinating, love song continues expressing the depth of the bride and bridegroom's love for each other. This captivating poem eloquently expresses that their love is much more powerful than anything that existed. The most powerful earthly thing that they knew, was water, and they proclaim in unity that this love is even greater. They are confident that there is nothing on earth that is powerful enough to take such a great love away. The king and queen know that this true passionate Godly love is also worth more than any earthly thing. These young lovers share that it is utterly unthinkable to even presume that this love could be bought, deplorable to even think of someone trading this love for belongings.

Water is very powerful and even in this day and age rivers, rain and water flows can not be completely controlled by man. Humans may exercise some degree of control by using dams, canals and dikes but ultimately man can not control the amount of rain, nor the levels or the seas and oceans around the world. He can not make it rain, not stop the rivers from flooding or the tsunamis from consuming everything in it's path.

The Hebrew word for quench is (3518) kaw-baw' it is a primitive root word that means to expire, to extinguish, or put out. God's passionate, merciful love for His people is woven throughout the whole bible.

Psalm 136 is filled with thanksgiving for Gods unfailing love, tenderness and loving kindness. The Psalmist lists many of the wonderful things God has done and uses the statement “For His mercy endures forever” between each accomplishment.

The relationship between these young lovers is just a small shadow of Gods love for us. When God's mercy and love, His all consuming fire is in our life there is no earthly thing that will put out that flame. “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us, for I am persuaded that neither death nor life, not angels nor principalities nor powers, not things present not things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:37-39).

Jesus is the only one powerful enough to expire this fire but we can read what was prophesied about Jesus in Isaiah 42:3 “a dimly burning flax He will not quench” or extinguish. If we allow the fire of God to burn in our heart He will never put it out but will always encourage us to allow that fire to grow bigger and burn off the bad things in our life.

Jesus said “I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!” (Luke 12:49).

“But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up” (2 Peter 3:10).

That thought is echoed again “each one's work will become clear; for the Day will declare it, because it will be revealed by fire; and the fire will test each one's work, of what sort it is” (1 Corinthians 3:13). The Hebrew word for contemned is (936) booz a primitive root word that means; to disrespect, contemn, despise, utterly, view or treat with contempt.

As His bride we know He will return and with such a great love that there is no earthly thing that can stop Him from doing all He has planned to do. We also see that everything we have ever done, said or thought will be tested by fire. This should help us keep a proper perspective, being careful to not allow anything we have or do get control over us. If we have so many possessions that they are quenching our time with Jesus it is time to start purging them. If we have habits, hobbies or obsessions that cut off our time with Jesus it is time to take steps toward cutting back. Today find at least five things in your house that you can give away.

Day 109 ~ What are You Passionate About?

2011-04-19T01:44:00.000-07:00

Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame (The Song of Solomon 8:6).

Most believe this is the Shulamite woman speaking to her beloved about their captivating love. As the song continues it is possible for either of them to be asking the other to set a mark on their heart and body that can not be changed or removed. A guarantee that each of them is totally the others in body, mind and soul. Each is committed to vehemently protect that love and determined to not allow anything to separate them. This heart seal is also found on the arm which represents their ministry together to help others. The captivated lovers can find comfort in each others arms. Their love is so strong that the only thing that will ever part them is death. Neither will allow jealousy to get between them but will use it as a catalyst to vigorously protect that passion like mama bear protects her cubs.

The word seal is (2368) thawm'in Hebrew, it means a signature ring, seal, signet. In Solomon's day each king had a one of a kind signet ring that had been artfully created by a master craftsman with a specific inscription identifying that king. It was worn by the king only and used to seal the wax on important papers. When a document was sealed and imprinted with the ring it proved that the paper came from and was approved by that particular king and no other.

The Hebrew word for inscribed is (2710) khaw-kak' which means to cut in or on, cut upon, engrave, inscribe to trace, mark out. God told Israel that He would never forget her “See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me” (Isaiah 49:16).
Just think about this, your name was permanently etched into God's hands even before Jesus hands were pierced by the nails 2000 years ago. The theme of being sealed or set apart for God is seen throughout the whole Bible. “Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having this seal; 'The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity” (2 Timothy 2:19).
“In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory” (Ephesians 1:13).
“Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us ad given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee” (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).
“In that day,' says the Lord of hosts, I will take you, Zerubbabel My servant, the son of Shealtiel,' says the Lord, and will make you like a signet ring; for I have chosen you, says the Lord of hosts” (Haggai 2:23).

In Ezekiel chapter 9 we learn that God marked those who were truly repentant over the wicked abominations they had been witnessing. God then released the death angels to slay anyone in Jerusalem that did not have the mark just like He did with the Israelites in Egypt.

Jealousy is a very powerful emotion, an attitude that demands complete devotion. Like anger it is not the emotion itself that is bad but what the person experiencing it does with the arousing feelings. In the middle of the ten commandments God said “For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God” (Exodus 20:5).
In Exodus “for you shall worship no other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God” ( Exodus 34:14).
“For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God” (Deuteronomy 4:24).

Jesus cleansed the temple by driving the money changers who had no relationship with God but were using the temple to make money and do business. When Jesus did this John records “Then His disciples remembered that it was written, 'Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up'” (John 2:17).
The disciples were remembering Psalm 69:9. The word for zeal or jealousy in the Greek is (2205) dzay'-los, it signifies eagerness, enthusiasm, intense desire, passionate commitment it indicates an active zeal for righteousness that arises holiness.

How wonderful it is to know that Christ's love is stronger than anything, even death and someday all death will be destroyed. “The last enemy that will be destroyed is death” (1 Corinthians 15:26).

Matthew Henry says “Holy love is a fire that begets a vehement heat in the soul, and consumes the dross and chaff that are in it, melts it down like wax in a new form, and carries it upwards as the sparks towards God and heaven. Love is a valiant victorious passion. Holy love is so; the reigning love of God in the soul is constant and firm, and will not be drawn off from him either by fair means or foul, by life or death.”

Just as God is jealous for us He desires that we have a passionate commitment for Him and His ways.

What things are you passionate about? What makes your blood boil, causing anger and jealousy? How can you turn these things around and do something positive to change those situations? Make a list in your journal.

Day 108 ~ Walking in the Wilderness

2011-04-18T01:42:00.000-07:00

Who is this that cometh up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved? I raised thee up under the apple tree: there thy mother brought thee forth; there she brought thee forth that bare thee (The Song of Solomon 8:5).

Once again it is not clear who is so eloquently speaking in this beautiful but mystical song. Some believe it is the Holy Spirit, others the bridegroom, a relative, the angels in heaven, the brides friends, or the women of Jerusalem replying to the last statement made to them. The writer makes it clear that the bride is coming up, ascending out of the wilderness, side by side with her lover king. She is leaning on him showing her dependence and reliance on him. She is reminded of her lineage and how she has changed so very much since birth.

Israel spent forty years in the wilderness. Many believe they would not have stayed in the desert that long if they had listened to God and obeyed. The journey across that area could have been done in less than two weeks.

Wilderness is from the Hebrew word (4057) mid-bawr' and is defined as a sense of driving, a pasture, open field where cattle are driven, a desert. It seems that anyone who has walked with God will experience times in which life will seem dry and barren filled with struggles and wrestling.

This song reminds us of the struggles, spiritual wrestlings that have happened in times past to Israel the people of God and Jacob. ”He (God) found him (Israel) in a desert land and in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him (Israel), He instructed him (Israel), He kept him (Israel) as the apple of His eye” (Deuteronomy 32:10).

In Matthew three it is written that John the Baptist was preaching in the wilderness. The first thing recorded about Jesus after He was baptized and His ministry publicly proclaimed is “Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” (Matthew 4:1). Jesus was victorious over the temptations that came during this time. If even Jesus had to go through wilderness times we need to know they are a “normal” part of our journey with Him.

The bride compared the king to an apple tree in 2:3, here once again the tree is remembered. We know how a tree was involved in our redemption when Jesus was raised upon it for our sins.

The scriptures share an excerpt from the life of Nathanael. He was under a fig tree when Jesus was nearby. Phillip a follower of Jesus informed Nathanael that Jesus was the one that Moses and the prophets told was to come. Nathanael scoffed and did not believe it could be true. Jesus turned to him and spoke directly to him. The Lord informed Nathanael that He had seen him under the fig tree earlier. Scholars believe that Nathanael had a pure heart, and had most likely been speaking with God under that tree. After Jesus spoke to Nathanael, he was changed forever. He knew in his heart and spoke with his mouth that Jesus is the “King of Israel” (John 1:43-49).

It is agreed upon that the term mother in this verse most likely represents the church and all the believers who have gone through over the centuries to bring forth the body of Christ.

Once again two English words are needed to translate one Hebrew word. The words brought and forth are from the primitive root word (2254) khaw-bal'. It means to wind tightly as a rope, to bind; by a pledge, writhe in pain in childbirth. Since these words are used twice it means that the statement is doubly strong. When giving birth in the physical and spiritual realm there is great pain and suffering. Jesus said “A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world” (John 16:21). Jesus goes on “Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice and your joy no one will take from you” (John 16:22).

He leaves us with great hope! Even if we are in pain and going through sufferings we can trust in Him. What areas of pain do you need to submit to Him today. Write them on a piece of paper in red ink and then slowly rip the paper to shreds. This symbolically represents giving it to Jesus and makes room for the joy to enter.

Day 107 ~ Are You Awake?

2011-04-17T01:41:00.000-07:00

I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love , until he please (The Song of Solomon 8:4).

Some believe the bride is expressing herself in this verse, others the bridegroom. Either way it is the fourth time in this song that a request has been made of the daughters of Jerusalem (2:7, 3:5, 5:8). It is seen by some as a warning to be careful not to stir up any lustful or unauthorized love.

To walk in true love one must take responsibility and use self-restraint. The natural order that God has created within our very being needs to be stirred up. The time is drawing nearer for all of God's people to be awake. The same Hebrew word is used to express the English words stir and awake in this verse. The primitive root word used is (5782) oor, it means opening the eyes, wake, lift up, master, raise, stir up.

God has a plan in place, a chosen time when Jerusalem to rise up. “It shall be in that day that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem. And I will pour on the house of David and on the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication; then they will look on Me whom they pierced. Yes, they will mourn for Him as one grieves for a firstborn” (Zechariah 12:9-10).

The scriptures continue to describe the mourning that will happen, when God will step in and cleanse those He loves with a gushing fountain, washing all the idols and sin away.

Next we read of our Shepherd Savior being awakened. “Awake, O sword, against My Shepherd, against the Man who is My Companion, says the Lord of hosts, strike the Shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered; (Zechariah 13:7).

Two-thirds will be cut off and die but of the rest who remain faithful “I will bring the one-third through the fire. Will refine them as silver is refined, and test them as gold is tested. They will call on My name and I will answer them. I will say, This is My people; and each will say, The Lord is my God” (Zechariah 13:9).

In the New Testament scripture right after Paul reminded us stir ourselves up and walk in love, he warned us to not get involved in fornication. As we walk in the light, Paul expresses God's word like this, “Therefore He says: 'awake, you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light'. See then that you walk carefully, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days of evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand the will of the Lord is” (Ephesians 4:14-17).

It is time to make sure we are awake and this is the time to awake others. We need to be sensitive to the leading of God on how and when to do this. “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).

It is traditionally believed that Solomon also penned this “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to gain, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace” (Ecclesiastes in 3:1-8).

In God's order there is a proper time for everything. Justice will come. We need to be aware of the cycles and make sure we do things His way and not our own.

Are you awake? Walking in His love? Have you tried to awaken the love of Jesus in others but found that they were blinded as if sleeping and not willing to hear His voice calling them? Pray that God would prepare their hearts to accept the truth and wake them from their dead life. Make a list of those you want Jesus to awaken to His love. Now ask God to touch them and stir their hearts.

Day 106 ~ Do You Feel His Touch?

2011-04-16T01:39:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

His left hand should be under my head, and his right hand should embrace me (The Song of Solomon 8:3).

These loving words about their tender embrace are echoed from 2:6. Now in the privacy of her mother's home the bride and groom can embrace. The woman speaks of his hand gently touching her head while his right arm encircles her body in a tender hug. The king is teaching her, and reassuring her of his love. The woman trusts that her groom will be supporting her as she submits everything she has ever had or has ever been to him. She is confident that her husband will provide her with everything she will ever need. He will hold her steadfast with his right hand continually guiding her through anything that comes their way.

The Hebrew word for right is (3225) yaw-meen' and it means the right hand or right side of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); it can also signify south.

The Hebrew word for left is (8040) sem-ole' a primitive root word; it means the left hand or left side of a person, it can signify north.

In verse 4:16 the bride had asked for the south and north wind to blow upon her. The woman is expressing how she has sustained the winds and is now safe in her lover's encompassing embrace.

When two people embrace and spend intimate time together they not only experience each others warmth they can feel each others breath or wind. When the conception of Jesus took place the scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit came upon Mary, overshadowed her with the power of the Highest. (Luke1:35) The word overshadowed is the same word that is used for the cloud seen at the transfiguration and the manifested glory of God to Israel in Exodus 40:34-38. God showed His personal presence in the midst of His bride Israel in the Old Testament and several times in the New Testament. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. It is possible to know God's breath, the way to do so is to spend intimate time in His word. We can not separate God from His word.

“Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him” (Proverbs 30:5).

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).

“He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God” (Revelation 19:13).

When Jesus touched people with His right hand He blessed, strengthened and gave courage to each one. It is so wonderful to know that He continues to touch those who draw near.

“ And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last” (Revelation 1:17).

God used an angel's hand to touch and strengthen Daniel, “Suddenly, a hand touched me, which made me tremble on my knees and on the palms of my hands” (Daniel 10:10) “ Then he said to me, Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set you heart to understand, and to humble yourself before God, you words were heard; and I have come because of your words” (Daniel 10:12). “ Then again , the one having the likeness of man touched me and strengthened me” (Daniel 10:18).

God's Holy Spirit does the same for us, touches and embraces us, dwells within us.

It was important to Jesus to get alone with the disciples and explain things to them in an intimate manner so they were prepared for things to come.

In Mark we read that “And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples” (Mark 4:34 ) Jesus could not tell them what they needed to hear when they were busy taking care of business

Are you allowing Jesus to embrace you daily? Are you catching His kisses? Do you hear Him speak to you? Does he daily show you what business He needs to get taken care of? He will equip you with all that you need but you must spend time in His word inquiring His direction. Write down what you gleaned from reading His word today.

Day 105~ The Glorious Homeland

2011-04-15T01:38:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

I would lead thee, and bring thee into my mother's house, who would instruct me; I would cause thee to drink of spiced wine of the juice of my pomegranate (The Song of Solomon 8:2).

As the bride continues to speak to her groom she invites him to come to her mother's house. In this familiar place she can serve him with the very best that she has. This is very important to her so the woman lets him know that she is willing to do everything that she can to include him in every single part of her life. The queen desires to serve her king a drink that has taken her time to be carefully produced. She extracted the tasty fluid from pomegranates by applying pressure, then she mulled the juice with spices to create a very pleasant and nutritious beverage.

When the woman uses the Hebrew word for lead shes uses (5090) naw-hag', a primitive root word that means to drive forth (a person, an animal, or chariot) to carry away, reflex, to proceed, panting produced by effort, to sigh.

God has so many great and precious promises for His Bride. God will take the old places where Israel use to live and repair it so she can serve God from her glorious homeland. “And they shall rebuild the old ruins, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the ruined cities, the desolations of many generations. Strangers shall stand and feed your flocks, and the sons of the foreigner shall be your plowmen and your vine dressers, but you shall be named priests of the LORD, they shall call you the servants of our God. You shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory you shall boast. Instead of your shame you shall have double honor. And instead of confusion they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double; everlasting joy shall be theirs” (Isaiah 61:4-7).

We are God's children when we are led by Him. “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God” (Romans 7:14). The more we are led by God's spirit the more conformed we become to His holy standards. This is not just restricted to objective knowledge of God's commands but a sensitivity to His promptings. A horse that has been broken in properly only needs a light nudge or a slight vocal cue from its master and it will do what it is being led to do.

The term Mother's house is translated by most scholars as the Church, a place where she can commune with her king openly, along with others who care and understand. The Bride's childhood home is the very place where she was taught how to serve others, to express love and where she grew in knowledge. The local church is a good place for us to go and do the same.

David shared how he learned to trust God in his mother's presence: “But You are He who took Me out of the womb; You made Me trust while on My mother's breasts. I was cast upon You from birth. From My mother's womb You have been My God” (Psalm 22:9-10).

In this verse spiced wine is used to represent the very best and freshest gifts that the bride has to offer to her groom. The Hebrew word used for juice is (6071) aw-sees'; it means; fresh grape juice, as just trodden out, juice, new, sweet, wine. This particular form of the word is not used in the bible in any other place.

As we express how grateful we are to Christ by exercising grace and service toward others it is very pleasing to Christ. When we serve others we are serving Christ. “For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me. Then the righteous will answer him, saying, Lord when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' And the King will answer and say to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me'” (Matthew 25:35-40).

Not only do we give things, food, money and our time we must include forgiveness, grace, mercy, honor and love to others. This is the spiced wine that we make as we squeeze the juices from our inside spiritual life out into our material world. Our cup can run over onto others.

Where does your family, especially parents fit into your relationship with Christ? Did they teach you about Him as a child? Are you bringing Him into your relationship with them and showing them who Jesus is by honoring them? Even more so if your parents do not know your King personally, bring Him to their house. Ask Him to show you how.

Day 104 ~ Blood is Thicker Than Water

2011-04-14T01:37:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

O that thou wert as my brother, that sucketh the breasts of my mother! When I should find thee without, I would kiss thee; yea, I should not be despised (The Song of Solomon 8:1).

As the final chapter of this song begins the affections between the two lovers continues to be alive and growing ever stronger. The bride is speaking of her wishes that their love could be expressed publicly, like the love between siblings. The groom had called her sister previously and she is now lovingly expressing her desires that he was a brother to her. If he was her brother they could publicly touch, but this was not acceptable behavior in the culture of the day especially for a king and queen. This woman deeply yearns for a constant freedom and intimacy between them that is familiar and enduring. She wishes that he had been part of her life from birth, that they had always been in each other presence, filled with a tender love and familiarity for each other. The woman is aware that others may look down upon her but has reached a point where she doesn't really care what others think of their relationship.

God promised His bride, “Also the sons of those who afflicted you shall come bowing to you, and all those who despised you shall fall prostrate at the soles of your feet; and they shall call you The City of the LORD, Zion the Holy One of Israel, Whereas you have been forsaken and hated, so that no one went through you, I will make you an eternal excellence, a joy of many generations. You shall drink the milk of the Gentiles, and milk the breast of kings; you shall know that I, the LORD, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob” (Isiah 60:14-16)

The Hebrew word for brother is (251) awkh, it is a primitive root word used only once in this love song. It means brother but in the widest sense of literal relationships, and it can me used as a metaphor for affinity or resemblance, or kindred.

When the word without is used it is the Hebrew word (2351) khoots and means to sever, separate by a wall, outside, outdoors. The bride knows that even though their relationship is passionate and intimate there is something between them that keeps them from walking in the full expression and complete perfection of that love.

That same desire to walk in the full expression of perfect love is explained this way in the scriptures;

“But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly ,but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known” (1 Corinthians 13:10-12).

This longing that the bride has to be even more intimate with her king should be mirrored in our life with Christ. A greater and deeper longing to actually be face to face totally and completely with nothing between our King and our self.

When we act according to Christ's will we show that we are His sibling. “For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother” (Matthew 12:50).

Many connections bear out that blood is thicker than water. Family members relationships with each other, not always but usually mend and continue longer than most friendships do. The blood of Jesus is much stronger than any natural physical blood ties.

In the Proverbs we see that Jesus is that friend who sticks closer than any earthly sibling ever can.

“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24).

Matthew Henry elaborates on this verse “Christ has become as our brother; wherever we find him. Therefore, let us be ready to own our relation to him and affection for him, and not fear being despised for it, not regard that any more than David did when he danced before the ark” (2 Samuel 6:14).

We need not worry or fear what others think yet we often do. Jesus Himself was despised. “He is despised and rejected by men, A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him” ( Isaiah 53:3). He also let us know “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you” ( John 15:18).

Have you been persecuted for testifying of you love of Jesus? Ask Jesus to help you overcome any fear of publicly showing your affection of Him. such as praying before a meal in a restaurant. Allow Him to take care of the situations and become closer to Him in every realm possible.

Day 103 ~ Are You Bearing Fruit?

2011-04-13T01:33:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

The mandrakes give a smell, and at our gate are all manner of pleasant fruits, new and old which I have laid up for thee, O beloved (The Song of Solomon 7:13).

The bride starts out speaking of the fragrant mandrakes, a love flower with small yellowish fruit. She is sharing what she smells, sees and tastes as she examines herself. She knows that there are old things that she can learn from and new things to come. This young lady is happy with the variety of fruit she is exhibiting and her ability to learn from her past. Fully delighted to be walking with her lover who accepts her just as she is.

Mandrakes are similar to avocados and were believed to induce fertility, they were also used as an aphrodisiac in some countries. When the bride speaks of these plants she is speaking of the intimate love and the fruit of this divine love between she and the king.

The original word for mandrake is (1736) doo-dah'-ee they are called love-apples and litteraly mean aphrodisiac, exciting sexual desire, and favoring procreation .

Mandrakes are only mentioned one other time in the scriptures, when a battle between two sisters over this precious love flower occured. Rachel and Leah were both married to Jacob, Rachel was barren and her sister was having many children. One day one of Leah's sons brought her some mandrakes. Rachel begged for some of them but Leah would not share. Jacob had intercourse with Leah that night because of the mandrakes and she conceived their 5th son. (Genesis 30:14-16)

The word manner is(2177) zan in Hebrew and it means nourished, fully developed, a form, diverse kinds.

Jesus wants His bride to have a variety of fully developed spiritual fruit. The tree of life yielded a dozen assorted edible produce. “In the middle of its street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of nations” (In Revelation 22:2).

The queen is developing and bearing fruit not for herself, but to nourish others.

According to the scriptures, “My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold” (Proverbs 8:19).

The bride is submitting everything good and bad, old and new to him, we too are to give it all to Jesus. We need to learn from the past but look forward to new and creative ways to nurture others. “Then He (Jesus) said to them, “Therefore every scribe instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old” (Matthew 13:52).

Jesus made this perfectly clear, “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you” (John 15:16).

Jesus chose you to bear fruit. Ask Him to help you identify some of the fruit you are already bearing. Have Him show you what is still developing. What seeds are inside that just need some tender nurturing to grow? Look at the list of fruit that you listed in an earlier chapter. Can you see growth?

Buy some of your favorite fruit today, eat it slowly savoring every bite as it pleases your senses and nourishes your body.

Day 102 ~ Examine Your Soul

2011-04-12T01:32:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine flourish, whether the tender grapes appear, and the pomegranates bud forth: then will I give thee my loves (The Song of Solomon 7:12).

The bride is eager to get started and lets her king know that doing his will is her top priority. She wants to make sure that she is flourishing and to find out if things are blooming in other parts of the kingdom. She looks for the spring time growth that makes everything turn “new”. Like the freshness of springtime she is charged with all the hope of the fruit coming. This woman is willing to examine her own vineyard first before looking at others. The bride promises to give the king her love and the best of everything as they leave the comfort of the palace and go out into the world together.

When the word early is used it is (7925) shaw-kam' in Hebrew, it is a primitive root word that means to incline, the shoulder to a burden, literally to load up on the back of man or beast, to start early in the morning.

This lovely queen is eagerly ready to do whatever is necessary no matter how heavy the load may seem. She is willing to live in any kind of hut or shelter, maybe something similar to the tents she grew up in. A place unlike the glorious palace that she now lives in, their will be hardships and a great deal of work. Unselfishly giving up these temporary comforts for the greater purpose of her noble husband's kingdom. This woman understands that as long as she is in her lover's presence she will be fine. She knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that nothing in this world will satisfy her like he does.

It is important to seek God's face early each day. During this time we can find out where He wants us to go work for the day. This time also helps us comprehend His incredible love on many deeper different levels.

“O God, You are my God early will I seek you” (Psalm 6:31). “I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me” (Proverbs 8:17).

God gave Hosea a promise about his wife, after the two of them spent private time together. “I will give her her vineyards from there, and the Valley of Achor as a door of hope; She shall sing there, as in the days of her youth as in the day when she came up from the land of Egypt” (Hosea 2:15)

The Hebrew word for hope is (8615) tiqvah which means hope, expectation, something yearned for and anticipated eagerly; something for which one waits.

God also gave many promises to His Bride the Body of Christ, such as “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified” (Isaiah 61:1-3).

When the word vineyards is used it can represent one's own private life or that of others. Each of us in the bride of Christ need to realize how important it is that we examine our own life and soul every day. It is our job to make sure we are abounding in fruit, walking in forgiveness and acting in grace. We must do this before entering into another person's vineyard to help them. Matthew Henry says “We are made keepers of these vineyards, and therefore are concerned often to look into them, to examine the state of our own souls, to seek whether the vine flourishes, whether we be fruitful in the fruits of righteousness, and whether our fruit abound.”

Sometimes this fruit is in the budding tender stage and must be protected, cherished not nipped or rubbed off. The fruit needs to be nourished and nurtured so it can be brought into perfection. Other times the fruit is ripe and it is time to share it with others. It is important to always invite Jesus into our examining sessions so we can appeal to Him and His mercy for direction. We will not know what stage our fruit is in if we don't check.

Have you been rising early in the morning to seek Him? Why or why not? What can you do differently to make this a top priority in your life? Inspect your own fruit? Are you in the tender budding stage or do you have fruit ready to share? What areas do you need more grace? What areas is He telling you to work on that seem painful? Are you carrying any unforgiveness? Ask Jesus to help you examine yourself beg him to search and try you so that you can give everything to Him.

Day 101 ~ Partnership?

2011-04-11T01:31:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

Come, my beloved, let us go forth into a field; let us lodge in the villages (The Song of Solomon 7:11).

The bride is humbly and earnestly proclaiming her desires. First for him to fulfill his earlier promise of coming to her (climbing the tree), and second to walk together privately in the field so she can learn his heart. This woman's desire is for her husband's counsel, instruction and comfort without interruption. She knows this is what she needs to be ready for the preparations necessary for her to go out in the world with him and bring others into his kingdom.

In Hosea we can read “Therefore, behold, I will allure her, will bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfort to her”(Hosea 2:14). This was to get together in privacy for preparation as we will see in the next verse of this love song.

Jesus often went in the wilderness for solitude and to seek His Father's will we have discussed that previously. We see Jesus drawing near after His death and resurrection:

“Now behold, two of them were traveling that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was seven miles from Jerusalem. And they talked together of all these things which had happened. So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with him. But their eyes were restrained, so that they did no know Him. And He said to them, “What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you walk and are sad?” (Luke 24: 13- 17)

The conversation continued back and forth for some time. The men explained in their own words about the death of Jesus and how confused they were. Jesus abode with these men and went home with them for dinner. While they broke bread together the men recognized Jesus and He vanished.

“And they said to one another, Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32).

The more time they spent with Jesus the more their hearts burned within them. The first thing they did was run to tell others in the village that they had seen the Messiah and shared the words Jesus had spoken to them.

Matthew Henry comments on what he feels the the bride was saying in this verse. “Having received fresh tokens of his love, and full assurances of her interest in him, she presses forward towards further acquaintance with him; as blessed Paul, who desired yet more and more of the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:8).

Communion with Jesus is a spiritual delight that we all desire within us. The closer we get the more earnestly we want to go deeper and deeper into this incredible love.

The bride's use of the word “us” four times in these two verses, shows that she and her husband are together in partnership.

This queen knew that after some private communion time alone with her husband a time would come for her to go and lodge in the villages. The Hebrew word for lodge is (3885) loon and means; to stop overnight or to stay and abide permanently, continue to dwell, remain and tarry.

This peasant girl transformed to queen has matured to the point where she is willing to get out of her comfort zone. She is not merely using words but she is ready to take action and stay as long as it takes to get the kings work done.

The Hebrew word for villages is (3723) kaw-fawr' which mean;s a village, as with protected walls it comes from the primitive root word (3722) kaw-far' which is the same word used earlier for camphire. This root word means to cover, appease, make atonement, cleanse, forgive, be merciful, reconcile, to cover over, atone for sin, make atonement for.

The bride knew deep within that it was now time to go to the villages and teach others about her magnificent king and all he has done for her.

Often Jesus journeyed to the villages, teaching and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness. Matthew 9:35, Mark 1:38, 6:6, 6:56, Luke 13:22.

Jesus so gently asks us to spend time with Him, live for Him so we can give to others.

“And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17).

“and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again” (2 Corinthians 5:15).

Are you going out into the villages to bring His atoning blood? Are you going any place you would not want Jesus to go? He is always with you at your right hand and staying near acknowledge Him. How is your partnership? 50%-50% or 100% 100% or somewhere between?

Day 100 ~ His Desire Is Toward Me

2011-04-10T01:30:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

I am my beloveds, and his desire is toward me (The Song of Solomon 7:10).

The bride, the king's spouse begins to express her love for her groom. In knowing how much he values her she triumphantly declares with joy her interest in him and he in her. His affections, kindness, thoughts and desires are solely reserved for her. She will boast in him and his name forever. She is devoted to and owned by him and not afraid to exclaim this to everyone and anyone who will listen. The queen is ready to know what her bridegroom most desires and she will make it her desire also.

This is the fourth of the bride's “I” statements. Remember in 1:13-14 she was stating that He loved her and their love was all about her. In 2:16 she is starting to mature and realizes that he has some ownership in her life, she acknowledges that she belongs to him. In 6:3 she acknowledges more strongly that he owns her and secondly she has rights to him. Now in this verse she is saying that he now owns her entirely, she cares most of what is important to him and only wants to focus on him.

The psalmist put it this way “Unless Your law had been my delight, I would then have perished in my affliction. I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have given me life, I am Yours, save me; for I have sought your precepts” (Psalm 119:92-94). A precept is a principle intended as a general rule for conduct and actions. The bride knows that in following her king's ways and walking in his love they will walk in true life together in each other's favor.

The word favor is (7522) raw-tsone'; means mans pleasure, desire, delight, favor. It's root word means “to be pleased with”.

God has made His chosen people his very own. “They shall be Mine,' says the Lord of hosts, On the day that I make them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him” (Malachi 3:17).

We are familiar with the word jewels. It literally means special treasure or particular treasure, possession, personal property; it is the Hebrew word (5459) seg-ool-law'. In five of the eight times this word is used in the Old Testament it is referring to Israel being God's special treasure. Man may find treasure in things but God's greatest treasure is His people.

As we discover how deeply Christ loves us we should rejoice greatly. To know his sovereignty over us and the comfort He brings us ,we should be filled with an even greater desire to be more intimate with Him. As we spend more time with Him we will understand Him at an even deeper level and our view of Him will change from “what He can do for me” to “how can I serve you more?”

In Genesis 3:16 we can see that God created the woman to desire her husband as he fulfills the role of servant-leader. This is the type of relationship being portrayed here between the king and his bride and is a foreshadowing of our relationship with Christ as His bride.

Jesus longs to be with us. “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You' and these have known that You sent Me, and I have declared to them Your name, and will declare I that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them” (John 17:24-26).

Do you see how Jesus chose to spend time with His Father to understand their love and know it more deeply. He offers the same thing to us. The wonderful thing is that as we focus on Him and find out what is most important to our king we realize the most significant thing to Him is people ourselves included. He wants us to love Him and His people! In loving Him we can care for others and He cares for us. The crux of a true love relationship. Share His love with someone today.

Day 99 ~ What Wine Do You Prefer?

2011-04-09T01:29:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

And the roof of thy mouth like the best wine for my beloved, that goeth down sweetly, causing the lips of those that are asleep to speak (The Song of Solomon 7:9).

The groom is delighting in his bride's pleasant words and their intimate kisses. This relationship has moved from openness and equality to oneness and unity. When others see this loveliness they are stupefied by it and begin to talk of this relationship.

When the king speaks of the roof of her mouth the word roof is (2441) khake and means in the sense of tasting, palate or inside of the mouth, mouth as the organ of speech taste and kissing. Her words, her prayers that come from her mouth are pleasing to her groom and to God.

The king speaks of people that are asleep which is (7290) raw-dam' and means to stun, stupefy with sleep or death. These folks do not know God personally, unconverted sinners are asleep, drowsy and listless in the world but can be awakened and filled with life and vigour of God's Spirit.

Good wine is pleasurable, very palatable and goes down sweetly a cordial that refreshes and revives. There is a difference between the wine of God and that of man. “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:18-19).

Old Testament scripture also informs us that we are to be cautious of worldly wine. “Do not look on the wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup, when it swirls around smoothly” (Proverbs 23:31).

We are to be filled with God's Holy Spirit His new wine, as they disciples were in the New Testament “Others mocking said, 'They are full of new wine.' But Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them, 'Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you and heed my words. For these are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 'And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, that I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days' and they shall prophesy”(Acts 2:13-18).

Joel speaks of the end times when God will pour Himself out on all flesh, including those asleep. These people will hear from God in dreams and visions then speak out as God shows wonders in the heavens. Unconverted sinners are sometimes described as being asleep. The Spirit of Christ and His word will wake them up and put vigor and life back into the soul. Many will be filled with an abundant heart that will speak of the wonderful works of God.

The bride and bridegroom are seeing each others faces up close and personal. She knows that this privilege of intimacy with the king is private and not open for anyone to enter into.

In Proverbs we learn that “In the light of the king's face is life, and his favor is like a cloud of the latter rain” (Proverbs 16:15). David, Solomon's father prayed “As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness, I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness” (Psalm 17:15).

This once peasant woman. now queen is able to see her kings face. He brings favor into her life and together they become one and please each other.

Are you filled with the wine of the Holy Spirit? Are you pleasing God with you words and life style? Are you totally committed and submitting all of you for His sake? Are you spending intimate time seeking your King's face each day? Read His word. Offer Him praises and diligently seek His face today.

Day 98 ~ Sacrifice

2011-04-08T01:28:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

I said, I will go up to the palm tree, I will take hold of the boughs thereof: now also thy breast shall be as clusters of the vine, and the smell of thy nose like apples; (The Song of Solomon 7:8).

The king is making a promise, that he “will” do something two times in this verse. Then he comments that when he does this his bride will be fruitful because she is attached to the vine. Notice that the word clusters is used, this is not the same word as grapes in 7:7. The brides loveliness reaches all his senses not just his sight but smell,touch and taste also. This ravishing bride is abiding in God and the love of her king, she is growing fruit that will nurture others. The king's presence is manifest in her life, she is anointed with palm oil, satiated with the wine of the Holy Spirit and filled with the breath of God.

Trees are a continuing theme in the bible and in these verses. The Hebrew word for tree is (6086) ates; it translates as a tree from it's firmness, hence wood, carpenter, timber.

Jesus was a carpenter who used His hands to make beautiful and useful creations from wood. He went up on the cross made from a tree for His bride.

In this love song the king's second promise is that he will take hold of the branches. Jesus let us know that we are branches and He is our vine, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without me you can do nothing” (John 15: 5).

The king continues to detail the sumptuous scent that he is enjoying. These fragrances are coming from the precious fruit that is being displayed. The word smell is (7381) ray'-akh, in Hebrew and means, fragrance, aroma, as if blown, savor, scent, smell odour of soothing (technical term for sacrifice to God) it is from the primitive root word (7306) roo'-akh, to blow, breath, to smell, perceive, enjoy, anticipate, touch, make of quick understanding.

The bride's breath, her inner life is pleasing to the king.

In the scriptures God is often pleased by sweet, soothing aromas that rise up for Him to savor. “I will accept you as a sweet aroma when I bring you out from the peoples and gather you out of the countries where you have been scattered; and I will be hallowed in you before the Gentiles” (Ezekiel 20:32).

“For we (the bride of Christ) are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved...” (2 Corinthians2:15).

“Therefore be imitators of God as dear children, and walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling aroma” (Ephesians 5:1-2).

“Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name” (Hebrews 13:15).

The bible has double the amount of prophesies of Christ's promised return than it does of His first coming. When He says He will do something we can be sure He will.

What sacrifices are you offering today? What fragrance to non-Christians smell when near you? How can you walk in love more deeply? Thank Jesus for hanging on the tree for you and becoming your sacrifice, making you sweet smelling to God.

Day 97 ~ Are you Growing?

2011-04-07T01:27:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

This thy stature is like to a palm tree, and thy breasts to clusters of grapes (The Song of Solomon 7:7).

The king continues listing the brides qualities and attributes. He sees her as his righteous queen stately, flourishing, and beautiful, mature and ready to nurture others and able to bring pleasure to himself the king. Trees are often used to symbolize growth, strength and righteousness. The bride has attained this status just like Israel eventually did.

Even though Israel committed numerous sins, God continued to love her and eventually ransomed and restored her. “I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely, for my anger has turned away from him.(Israel) I will be like the dew to Israel; He shall grow like the lily, and lengthen his roots like Lebanon, his branches shall spread; his beauty shall be like an olive tree, and his fragrance like Lebanon. Those who dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall be revived like grain, and grow like a vine. Their scent shall be like the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, “What have I to do anymore with idols?' I have heard and observed him. I am like a green cypress tree; your fruit is found in Me.” Who is wise? Let him understand these things. Who is prudent: Let him know them. For the ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them, but transgressors stumble in them” (Hosea 14:4-9).

Hosea was chosen by God to live a message to the people who needed to hear of God's love. He summarizes this message by simply saying that to avoid paths of destruction is to know God, follow His ways and you find righteousness.

In this beautiful love poem the Hebrew word for stature is (6967) ko-maw' it is used only this one time. It means height or stature, which is a quality gained by achievement.

In New Testament scripture we learn that Jesus gained stature when he was a boy. “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” (Luke 2:52).

We can increase in wisdom and stature just like Jesus did. It is important to remember that this is a process and will take our whole life to fulfill “for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12-13).

Palm trees are mentioned often in the bible and are a symbol for victory. Every part of the tree is used from the wood, seeds, oil and branches which makes them very important to the economy. It is interesting to note that palm trees do not have branches but are a single trunk with a crown of leaves that stay perpetually green.

In the desert when the Israelites were wondering and complaining they came upon some water that was very bitter and not drinkable. Moses cried for help,he saw some trees in the distance and this is what happened: “Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees; so they camped there by the waters” (Exodus 15:27). The trees were witness to good water. They are also a sign of luxuriant growth.

“The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh (full of oil or sap) and flourishing” (Psalm 92:12-14)

Palm branches were used to honor and worship Jesus as the King of Israel when He entered Jerusalem on a colt. (Matt 21:4-9. Mark 11:71-10, Luke 19:35-38, John 12: 12-15)

Palm branches will be used again when Jesus returns. “After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitudes which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” (Revelation 7:9-10).

The king once again describes his brides nurturing breasts, he compares them to a cluster of grapes. He ponders on how blessed their marvelous intimacy is, as delightful and pleasurable as wine.

“Thus says the Lord; As the new wine is found in the cluster, and one says, Do not destroy it, for a blessing is in it, so will I do for My servants' sake, that I may not destroy them all” (Isaiah 64:8).

Our goal should be that we aim to become more like Christ, to grow and not stagnate.

Are you growing more like Christ each day? Where are you in your journey? Are you increasing in wisdom and stature? How? Find some photos of trees, which kind describes you best.

Day 96 ~ Delight in Love

2011-04-06T01:25:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

How fair and how pleasant art thou, O love, for delights! (The Song of Solomon 7:6).

The king is proclaiming her beauty and loveliness for all to hear. He calls the bride “love” a title of endearment showing his desire to be in communion with her forever. This woman has become mature and has accepted what God has put upon her and called her to be. The groom wants his wife to know his love ever deeper. He reflects just how very blessed he is to have such an admirable lady in his life. As he responds to her beauty he knows that the blessing of having a magnificent bride comes from God.

“He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord” (Proverbs 18:22).

The Hebrew word delights is (8588) tah-an-oog' and means, daintiness, luxury delicate, exquisite delight, pleasant and filled with female qualities. The king is speaking of her inner qualities and her heart, he can see right past any weaknesses or faults she may have. The king understands that his bride is not perfect in her own strength and that she will fail some times. He is willing to help her turn around and train her as many times as needed so she can walk in her role as queen, right beside him.

David reminded God how fragile we humans really are “Lord, make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am. Indeed, You have made my days a hand breadths, and my age is as nothing before You; certainly every man at his best state is but a vapor” (Psalm 39:4-5).

Even Jesus acknowledged that his closest friends needed help and strength from God, to get through the tough times of life. Even though the disciples walked with Jesus for a few years they were still mere weak men. “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41).

Israel failed, as did Hosea's wife Gomer, and almost every human named in the scriptures. We do not have enough strength within ourselves to be all that God has called us to be, yet, when we submit to God Jesus with humility the Holy Spirit will strengthen our inner spirit and help us become all that God wants us to be.

“For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you being rooted and grounded in love may be able to comprehend (experience) with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height- to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:14-19).

Psalm 119 repeats several times how important it is for us to delight in God's law and commandments. “Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful” (Psalm 147:1 ).

We can experience God's love as deeply as this bride and groom are in this love poem we just need to delight and live in His commands, trust and praise Him, focusing our eyes completely on Him.

We can please God, the bible tells us how; “By faith Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death, and was not found, because God had taken him; for before he was taken he had this testimony, the he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:5-6).

Just as the woman trusted the king in this love song we need to trust and believe God. It is possible to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that He is taking care of us and has our best interest in mind. It may be difficult to comprehend that we actually please God, but we do. It is difficult to comprehend the Grand Canyon when we are standing right next to it, viewing 15 miles across and 1 mile down and that is only one tiny part of God's creation.

It is a first step to invite Christ into our heart but then you need to give yourself to Him. Tell Him today how you trust Him, how much you love him. Tell Him how lovely and beautiful He is. Let Him know that He is your delight and how much you want to please Him. Make a list of situations in your life that you are trusting God to take care of. Next ask Him who you can do for Him today.

Day 95 ~ The Secret Place

2011-04-05T01:20:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Thine head upon thee is like Carmel, and the hair of thine head like purple, the king is held in the galleries (The Song of Solomon 7:5).

The groom now speaks of his bride's head and hair. The king is referring to their private time together now that he has made her a queen. He is enchanted by her beauty and love. He is continuing to delight in her countenance and enjoys telling all that she carries herself in a way that depicts her confidence in his love. Her hair was not necessarily colored the royal color purple but was most likely adorned with purple ornaments. The woman's clothes are colored purple which stands for honor and strength not only of herself but of her husband also. When the king shares that she has held him in his galleries he is communicating that her comeliness is made truly valuable by his love, which holds him totally captive.

Carmel is a high hill or mountain near the sea in Palestine, it is on the Mediterranean coast of northern Israel. Garden-land is Carmel's literal translation, (3760) kar-mel' which means fruitful and plentiful.

In the New Testament scripture it is written “But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering” (1 Corinthians 11:15).

Purple a sign of royalty and luxury is mentioned often in the bible. Lydia in Acts 14:14 was a seller of purple. King Lemeul penned this about the virtuous wife, “She makes tapestry for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple, her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among the elders of the land, she makes linen garments, sells them, and supplies sashes for the merchants. Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come” (Proverbs 31:22-25).

Clothed in purple shows that a person fares sumptuously or lived in luxury. (Luke 18:19) Mockingly the soldiers put a purple robe on Jesus. (John 19:2)

The word honor is (1926) haw-dawr' in Hebrew and means splendor, honor, glory, adornment, magnificence, beauty.

A Psalmist wrote, “For You have made him a little lower than the angels, and You have crowned him with glory and honor” (Psalm 8:5).

God has crowned man with splendor in spite of how small he is in comparison to the vastness of God's creation.

The Hebrew word used in this verse for king is (4427) maw-lak' and means; to reign; to ascend the throne, make a set, to be a king or queen, to reign. Note that this word can mean the king or the queen as it speaks of the stately throne and reign that royalty attain.

The word translated as held is (631) aw-sar' it is a primitive Hebrew root word that means to yoke or hitch; to fasten in any sense, to join in battle, bind, fast, gird, harness, hold, keep, make ready, order, prepare.

A gallery can be an outdoor porch or balcony or a long narrow passage within a hall. The word used here for galleries is (7298) thr rah'-hat and is referring to ringlets of hair that form parallel lines. The king is continuing to dwell on her beautiful hair.

God has promised to meet with anyone who trusts Him in the gallery or secret place. “You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man' You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion (shelter) from the strife of tongues” (Psalm 31:20).

According to Matthew Henry he believed that “held in the galleries” is referring to the “resting place” mentioned in the Psalms; “This is My resting place forever, here I will dwell, for I have desired it” (Psalm 132:14). “To whom He said, “This is the rest with which you may cause the weary to rest,'”And, “ This is the refreshing”; Yet they would not hear” (Isaiah 28: 12 ).

Where is your secret place? What would your perfect quiet place look like? Have you gone to the secret place today and met with Abba Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit? Set aside some time as quickly as you can to go there. Mark this special time as an appointment on your calendar and go there every day.

Day 94 ~ Looking to Our True Home

2011-04-04T01:19:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Thy neck is as a tower of ivory; thine eyes like the fish pools in Heshbon, by the gate of Bathribbim: thy nose is as a tower of Lebanon which looketh toward Damascus (The Song of Solomon 7:4).

The groom continues with his ravishing comments. He describes with delight his brides attractive neck, beautiful eyes and stunning nose. This man is not just trying to earn brownie points, but is proclaiming the many virtues that he sees in his lovely wife. He begins this verse by comparing her neck to a tower of ivory, a precious material even more valuable than the description he had used in verse 4:4 when he said her neck was like David's tower. He then depicts her with even greater value, ivory speaks of strength, beauty and protection.

When he describes the bride's nose as looking toward Damascus he is saying that she is a confident women who can face the enemy with out wavering. This woman undoubtedly knows that God is on her side because this confidence comes from her intimate and passionate relationship with God. The king and his bride know each other in a very personal and private manner.

In the scriptures David often describes God as a tower, “For You have been a shelter for me, A strong tower from the enemy” (Psalm 61:3). He repeats a similar sentiment here “My loving kindness and my fortress, my high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, who subdues the people under me” (Psalm 61:3). David, Solomon's father knew of God's protection from the enemies. Solomon grew up hearing many stories of the protection God gave his father.

God's name is a strong and impregnable tower that connects us to Jesus.

We the church, His bride, are protected and led by Christ our head, as long as we stay connected to Him. “And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all” (Ephesians 1:22-23).

When the king represented the woman's eyes with fish pools he used the Hebrew word (1295) ber-ay-kaw', it means; a reservoir (at which camels kneel as a resting place). It is from the primitive root word (1288) baw-rak' which translates; to kneel- to bless God as an act of adoration. This particular word is used only this one time in bible although there are other words for adoration and kneeling before God in humbleness. The water attained from kneeling at the reservoir is fresh spring water that is abundantly clean and pure, this expression explains that the bride is fee from moral faults keeping herself uncontaminated from anything that would pollute.

The bride is not only aware of the prophets and God's commands, she lives them. The word pure in the New Testament Greek is (1506) i-lik-ree-nace' literally means found pure when unfolded and examined by the sun's light, unsullied, sincere.

Peter reminds us, the Bride of Christ, “Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder), that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord Savior” ( 2 Peter 3:1-2)

In Hebrew the word nose is the word (639) af and means the nose or nostril; hence the face and occasionally a person (from the rapid breathing in passion) “Thus says God the Lord, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread forth the earth and that which comes from it, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk on it” ( Isaiah 42:5). Man knew God intimately when God breathed his breath into Adam's nostrils “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being” (Genesis 2:7).

Syria was the capital of Damascus at this time and it's army was the greatest enemy Israel had. She was willing to face any foe, because she knew that God and her king would defend her.

Isaiah explains how we defeat an enemy, “ For the Lord God will help Me; therefore I will not be disgraced; therefore I have set My face like a flint, and I know that I will be ashamed. He is near who justifies Me; who will contend with Me? Let us stand together. Who is My adversary? Let him come near Me. Surely the Lord God will help Me. Who is he who will condemn Me?” (Isaiah 50:7-9)

Look at your own neck, not physically but spiritually are you connected with the Christ your head? Are your eyes pure? Is Jesus who you adore, or have others things been let in that are polluting you? Let the “Son's” light test you. Which way are you facing? Are you looking heavenward knowing that is your true home and that God will not allow anything into your life that He can not use for good? Ponder these questions and ask the Lord if you need to make any adjustments.

Day 93 ~Feel His Breath

2011-04-03T01:18:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Thy two breasts are like two young roes that are twins (The Song of Solomon 7:3).

Continuing to ravish his bride with symbolic language the king comments on her breasts. He is focusing on their intimacy and her ability to nourish the babes that will come from her womb, these were mentioned in the previous verse. This also portrays her as one who is able to nurture, train and influence others.

The king's love for his bride transcends the parental love and bonding that has existed since her birth. David shared of the depths of God's love “When my father and mother forsake me, Then the Lord will take care of me” (Psalm 27:10). David was never abandoned by his parents but in the natural course of human development a child reaches the point where he or she is no longer taken care of by the parents. In many culture this is the point where they enter into a marriage covenant and may feel a twinge of rejection or abandonment as they move to this next stage of life.

When a women shares her breasts with her husband it is part of the passion and commitment God planned for such intrinsic relationships. In Genesis we read “Then the rib which the Lord God had taken from the man He made into a woman, and He brought her to the man. And Adam said: “ This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; She shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.” Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed” (Genesis 2:22-24).

The Hebrew word used for one in Genesis is (259) ekh-awd' means one, a unit; united; unity. When God spoke to His bride and gave the “Greatest Commandment” he used this same form of the word one. “Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God, the Lord is one!” (Deuteronomy 6:4 ). He continues, “ You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the door posts of your house and on your gates” (Deuteronomy 6:5-9).

The intimacy between this bride and her groom is a model for marriage and a shadow of our relationship as the Bride of Christ with God.

We will never meet a level of maturity where we do not need intimacy with God. He promises to always be there for us. Just like the king promises his bride in this love song that he will always be there for her.

God wants us to get alone and be intimate with Him often. Jesus modeled this type of relationship so we could understand how to be with our invisible but ever present God. Jesus explained to the the disciples that one of the first things to seeking God is to go to a quiet place (Mark 6:31) The scriptures share how Jesus started His ministry by getting alone in the desert with God (Matthew 4:1-11). He also spent the night alone in the desert hills praying before He choose the twelve (Luke 6:12). Jesus went out in the boat to withdraw to a lonely place when He heard of the death of John the Baptist (Matthew 14:13). After feeding the five thousand, a very long night of work Jesus once again gets alone with His Father. (Mark 1:35). These are just a few of the many times that it is written in the Bible that Jesus went into a solitary place to be alone with God.

When we spend time in solitude with God it is an intimate time. God lovingly draws us away from every distraction so we can hear and see him more clearly. As we take time in His loving embrace he gently and wondrously speaks to us and provides a renewed inner strength.

In the old testament the holiest place on earth was within the “Holy of Holies”. This special place within the tabernacle, where the Mercy Seat was located was covered by a very special curtain or veil. It was such a sacred place that it could only be entered once a year and only by a high priest who had met all the requirements to do so.

In the New Testament the veil of the temple was ripped in half at Christ's death (Matthew 27:51) it showed that we the bride of Christ, can now enter the Holy of Holies. “Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:19-22)

Today set aside some time to enter the Holy of Holies and be intimate with God. Listen to His voice, sense His breath, feel His embrace, He is waiting for you.

Day 92~ Commune With Him

2011-04-02T01:17:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Thy navel is like a round goblet, which wanteth not liquor; thy belly is like an heap of wheat set about with lilies (The Song of Solomon 7:2).

The king continues to delight in how stunning and gorgeous his bride is, describing this lovely woman with great detail. He has now traveled up from her feet and hips to her abdomen. When he paints the picture of his bride's navel he shares that it is round like a hand crafted, one of a kind drinking glass. This portrays that she is healthy and strong yet unique and one of a kind like a goblet an artisan created from fine gold. The groom communicates that his bride does not need any liquor to keep her happy, his presence and doing his will is all she needs. It also indicates that she had made a vow to keep herself consecrated.

As the king searches for words to represent such an honorable woman he compares the woman's belly to a bundle of wheat surrounded by beautiful flowers. He indicates that she is able to bear children physically and spiritually. The lilies represent beauty and the people like they did in 6:3 when the groom had been spending time with the people. He proclaims that his bride will be part of the harvest of the people represented by the wheat and the lilies.

The Hebrew word for navel is (8326) sho'-rer, and means umbilical cord or navel just as it does today. It is used very few times in the bible but is mentioned when God rescued His bride as a newborn baby in the desert, “As for your nativity, on the day you were born your navel cord was not cut, nor were you washed in water to cleanse you; you were not rubbed with salt nor wrapped in swaddling cloths” (Ezekiel 16:4). This passage is referring to God's bride Israel when He found her. Her navel had not been taken care of, a sign that no one took care of this helpless babe and she had been abandoned.

The scriptures show us how to gain Godly fortitude in the same way that the bride did. “Do not be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your navel, and strength to your bones” (Proverbs 3:7-8).

The Hebrew word used for goblet is (101) ag-gawn'. This particular word is used only one time in the bible, it is a bowl, as pounded out hollow, basin, cup or goblet and was also used metaphorically to describe the human body and as a simile when speaking of the curves of the body. It is similar but not the same as the word David used when he referred to a “cup” in Psalm 23.

When the poem mentions that the bride does not want any liquor the Hebrew word used is (4197) meh'-zeg which means to mingle (water with wine), tempered wine. Wine is often referred to in the holy scriptures.

Jesus' very first miracle involved turning water into wine.

Psalm 104:15 says that God gives wine to make the heart glad.

God told Moses “Speak to the children of Israel, and say to them: When either a man or woman consecrates an offering to take the vow of a Nazirite, to separate himself to the Lord, he shall separate himself from wine and similar drink; he shall drink neither vinegar made from wine nor vinegar made from similar drink' neither shall he drink any grape juice, nor eat fresh grapes or raisin” (Numbers 6:2-3).

There were three parts to the vow of a Nazirite of which one was to abstain from wine. This was how a person separated themselves to the Lord. Most did this for a specific amount of time but some made it a lifelong commitment like Samson.

The bride is choosing to separate herself for God.

Wheat is said to be one of the first plants to ever be cultivated. It had to be cut and then gathered into piles before it was threshed and separated from the chaff. Many bundles of wheat meant it was a good harvest and there would be plenty to eat. Wheat made into bread and cakes was a regular part of daily food in Solomon's day.
Jesus used wheat to describe the many souls need to be nurtured and brought into His kingdom. “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work. Do you not say, There are still four months and then comes the harvest? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! And he who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, and both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together. For in this the saying is true; One sows and another reaps, I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have entered into their labors” (John 4:34-38). He also said “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37-38).

“He has blessed your children within you. He makes peace in your borders, and fills you with the finest wheat” (Psalm 147:13-14)

At the Last Supper Jesus used bread made from wheat and wine from grapes to represent the New Covenant. “ And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take, and eat, this is My body.” Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “ Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins” (Matthew 26:26-28). Next He made a Nazirite vow verse 29, “But I say to you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.” This was all part of the new and living way that God was providing through Christ to eternally establishing His relationship with His bride.

Today prepare some bread and wine/juice and take communion with just you and God. Read through 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 while doing so.

Day 91~ Be Steadfast, Unmovable

2011-04-01T01:15:00.000-07:00

(The Daughters of Jerusalem and/or the beloved speaks)

How beautiful are thy feet with shoes, O prince's daughter! The joints of thy thighs are like jewels, the work of the hands of a cunning workman (The Song of Solomon 7:1).

There is some debate on who is speaking in this verse, no matter who it is, an expression of love and delight of the beauties of the bride is being reflected upon. In chapter four the king praised her from the head down and now this verse echoes some of those words of love in reverse order. This description begins at her feet and travels upward. The bride has some type of sandal or slipper on her feet which reveals that she is not a barefoot servant. With her feet protected she can go wherever need be to get things done for her king.

The woman is given a new title in this verse, daughter of the prince! Prince is (5081) naw-deeb' in Hebrew and means voluntary, generous, magnanimous (courageous spirit), noble, willing hearted. This woman is now an heir of the king and has a princely disposition. She has a beauty in holiness which can not be compared with any worldly thing, it is heavenly and goes beyond earthly reach. An excellent character that comes from spending time with the king.

The bride's joints and thighs are commented on next, she needs them for walking and keeping on the correct path. This statement reflects the knowledge that she has sincere resolution to do the kings endeavors. This poor peasant has become strong and this gives her value and beauty that is more precious and costly than rare jewels.

God transformed Jerusalem His bride, the King of kings took her under His wings while she was naked and alone. He cleaned her up and provided all that she needed to fashion her into an exceedingly beautiful, perfect and royal bride. “I made you thrive like a plant in the field; and you grew, matured, and became very beautiful. Your breasts were formed, your hair grew, but you were naked and bare. When I passed by you again and looked upon you, indeed your time was the time of love; so I spread My wing over you and covered your nakedness. Yes, I swore an oath to you and entered into a covenant with you, and you became Mine,” says the Lord God. Then I washed you in water; yes, I thoroughly washed off your blood, and anointed you with oil. I clothed you in embroidered cloth and gave you sandals of badger skin; I clothed you with fine linen and covered you with silk. I adorned you with ornaments, put bracelets on your wrists, and chains on your neck. And I put a jewel in your nose, earrings in your ears, and a beautiful crown on your head. Thus you were adorned gold and silver, and your clothing was of fine linen, silk, and embroidered cloth. You ate pastry of fine flour, honey and oil. You were exceedingly beautiful, and succeeded to royalty. Your fame went out among the nations because of your beauty, for it was perfect through My splendor which I had bestowed on you,” says the Lord God” (Ezekiel 16:7-14).

The Scriptures proclaim the glories of the Messiah's bride, you and I; “The royal daughter is all glorious within the palace; Her clothing is woven with gold” (Psalm 45:13).

When this verse speaks of the workman the Hebrew word (542) aw-mawn' is used. It means; cunning, workman, an expert, to build up support; to foster as a parent or nurse, to render firm or faithful, to trust or believe, permanent, steadfast. The workmen that were hired to build the tabernacle in Exodus were said to have a gift from God to do their artistic works. They were skilled artisans that took many years to learn how to make beautiful things with their hands. The word workman comes from the primitive root word (539) aw-man' which adds even more meaning; to support, confirm, be faithful.

The king along with God are the workman that transform the lowly into exceedingly beautiful brides with their splendor.

God is able to use a wide variety of ways to transform us but it seems that His favorite is by directing our daily walk or our feet one step at a time, one day at a time. “He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps” (Psalm 40:2). “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). “He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber” ( Psalm 121:3).

In the New Testament scriptures Zachariah's prophecy informed the people how John the Baptist was brought into this world to lead others to true peace by showing us the way to Christ; “...to guide our feet into the way of peace”(Luke 1:79).

In Ephesians 6:15 we see how important it is to use what God has given us “and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace,” It is our job as the bride of Christ to make sure we are walking in peace by using God's word to guide us.

It is important to God that we become His hands and feet on this earth to glorify Him. Feet are used for transporting us anywhere necessary and the Lord cares about each step we take. He wants us to stay on solid ground and have our path illuminated by His Word, so we can do all that He wants us to do.

We have this to look forward to: “ Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power. For he must put all things under His feet. But when He says, “all things are put under Him, it is evident that He who put all things under Him is excepted. Now when all things are made subject to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God maybe all in all” (1 Corinthians15:24-28).

When the kingdom is delivered up to God the consummation of the covenant will occur and all creation will be completely free. This is the consummation of the wedding feast, when this occurs everything evil will be gone. Knowing this we need to keep our feet on the path of peace and believe

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:21).

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9)

Peter was speaking about everyone of us who has accepted Jesus as the King of our life, we take on His royal lineage and are in His bloodline.

Are you walking in peace? Have you allowed God's Holy Spirit be an artisan in your life? What changes has God made in your life to bring out the beauty He created you with? Are you bearing the image of the King of kings? What disciplines do you do that help you stay on His path?

Day 90 ~ Reconcile

2011-03-31T01:07:00.000-07:00

(The Beloved and His Friends speak)

Return, return, O Shulamite; return, return, that we may look upon thee. What will ye see in the Shulamite? As it were the company of two armies (The Song of Solomon 6:13).

The king and his friends have arrived in most likely the traditional midnight processional, the actual wedding has begun. Great urgency is being shown when the word return is used four times. Everyone who is ready will look and see that she is no longer a meager peasant. The woman is addressed as Shulamite, this is a public proclamation that they are married, in covenant with each other. This makes her officially the Queen. As the groom and his men continue to gaze at the lovely bride, the metaphor a “company of two armies” is used to show how much she has matured and changed from a peasant girl to this graceful, magnificent woman.

In Hebrew return is the word (7725) shoob, it is a primitive root word that means; to turn back, to retreat, forget oneself, restore. It is similar to the word repent, meaning to make a decision to change your purpose and action in life. She is totally letting go of her past and has reached the moment to go in with her groom and the wedding party like the wise virgins in Matthew 25:10.

When the king and his friends call the bride Shulamite which is (7759) shoo-lam-meeth' in Hebrew it means: the perfect, always peaceful, an epithet of Solomon's queen. The primitive root word that it is derived from is (7965) shaw-lome' which means: completeness, soundness, welfare, peace, safety, soundness (in body), welfare, health, prosperity, quiet, tranquility, contentment, friendship, with God especially in covenant relationship. When he calls her Shulamite he is acknowledging that Salem is her place of birth and residency because (8004) shaw-lame' is the early name for Jeru-Salem.

We learn that Melchizadek was the king of Salem (Genesis 14:18), the place of God's tabernacle (Psalm 76:2). In the New Testament we learn even more about this mysterious king, “For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, to whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all, first being translated “king of righteousness,” and then also king of Salem, meaning 'King of peace, “ without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, remains a priest continually” ( Hebrews 7:1-3 ).

King Melchizadek was a type of Christ, who is our King and our High Priest, the one that is eternal and changeless. No one else was ever allowed to be a King and a High Priest in all of recorded history.

When the groom gazes at her, the word look is (2372) khaw-zaw' in Hebrew a primitive root word that means to gaze at, mentally to perceive, contemplate (with pleasure) specifically to have a vision of, behold, look prophesy, provide and see. He sees more than just a glorious bride in a stunning dress, he looks beyond her outward ravishing beauty, her humanness that may be prone to wander and into her gorgeous inward appearance and their future together.

God showed his glory and goodness to Israel in a processional that may have been similar to wedding processions, “They have seen Your procession O God, the procession of my God, my King, into the sanctuary, the singers went before, the players on instruments followed after, among them were the maidens playing timbrels” (Psalm68:24-25).

The groom views his bride just as Christ sees us, you and me, completely sanctified and renewed in His blood. This is what is going to happen when the Lord returns for us, “For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).

There is much more to the phrase that the king uses to compare his lovely bride to the company of two armies he alludes to the word Mahonaim which means double camp. It is a memorial name given in Genesis when two very important events took place. The first was this, “Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. Now when He saw that He did not prevail against him, He touched the socket of his hip; and the socket of Jacob's hip was out of joint as He wrestled with him. And He said, “ Let Me go, for the day breaks,” But he said, I will not let You go unless You bless me!” So He said to him, “What is your name?” He said, “Jacob.” And He said, “Your name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have struggled with God and with men and have prevailed” (Genesis 32:24-28).

Jacob struggled with flesh and blood. Jacob was changed to “Israel” which means “Prince with God” the name for God “EL”, was joined with Jacob. The term often used in scripture for God's bride. Israel would never forget that encounter the rest of his life for he could not take a step without limping, a constant reminder of that night.

This peasant girl has struggled with many physical and mental issues and yet the king holds tightly changing her from the inside and giving her his name.

The second part of “the company of two” is about the reconciliation that happened very shortly after Jacob's encounter with God. Jacob who is now named Israel, is about to have an encounter with his brother Esau. They had been separated on bad terms for 20 years but now they were reunited and this is what happened. “But Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept” (Genesis 33:4).

Jacob was very concerned that his brother would harm him after what he had done, two decades before when he stole his brothers birthright. Instead time had washed away the bitterness and they were united n brotherly love.

When we call our self “Christian” we carry Christ's name as a token of our relationship with Him. As we become “one” with Christ we are new creatures so every part of our life is affected. In these examples the relationships between the peasant girl and the king, Jacob and Esau the changes that occurred enhanced their relationships with each other.

What changes in relationships have you noticed in your life? Which is more important to you, to know that there is healing, forgiveness and peace between you and your family members and friends or that you are “right” for any given situation. Holding on to unforgiveness and bitterness doesn't hurt the one you are doing that too as much as it hurts you and it does not fix the situation. Ask the Lord to help you identify anyone that has something against so you can make the first step to reconcile the differences. See Matthew 5:23-24

Day 89~ Have You Been Transformed?

2011-03-30T01:02:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

Or ever I was aware, my soul made me like the chariots of Amminadib (The Song of Solomon 6:12).

The bride is meditating on how the king has transformed her from peasant girl to the leadership role as his queen. She dwells on how he courted her so sweetly until she returned to him. Now she wants to get into his arms as quickly as she can.

The word aware is (3045) yaw-dah' in Hebrew and means, to know by experience, observation, care, recognition, instruction, understand, have respect. This woman is experiencing an inner awakening similar to what Joseph did when he came to the point that he could not remain silent anymore. “Then Joseph could not restrain himself before all those who stood by him, and he cried out, “Make everyone go out from me!” So no one stood with him while Joseph made himself known to his brothers. And he wept aloud, and the Egyptians and the house of Pharaoh heard it. Then Joseph said to his brothers, I am Joseph; does my father still live? But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed in his presence. And Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near to me.” So they came near. Then he said; “I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt. But now, do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:1-5)

Joseph knew where his family was since the day he was sold, yet he could not be with them. He was aware of who they were since their first visit to Egypt. He could not share this knowledge right away but there came a point where this awareness was so strong he could not cover his emotions another minute, he had to share who he was and learn more about what had happened in his family during those lost years.

The word chariot was used earlier in this song but this time it is the feminine form (4818) mer-kaw-baw' meaning a swift chariot or the seat of a chariot. The Hebrew word Amminadib is translated “my people”. The bride wants to be with the people of the kingdom, with her beloved king and in his loving comfort. She is amazed how this love from the king has quickly transformed her into a person who longed to be with the king, to one who longs to bring others into his kingdom.

John said that “If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him; that he who loves God must love his brother also” (1 John 4:20-21). “Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten to Him” (1 John 5:1). When we look at the transforming selfless love of Christ our king, we find it easier to love others.

Have you had this irresistible, powerful inclination to just bask in your King's presence? Just quietly meditating on how lovely He is and all that He has done for you. Spend some time right now just rushing into His arms and acknowledging His great love. There is nothing you can do that would keep Him away from you. Just sit in the awareness of what transformations He has brought in your life then begin to share it with others.

Day 88 ~ Hang Out With Fruity Friends

2011-03-29T01:01:00.000-07:00

(The Bride speaks)

I went down into the garden of nuts to see the fruits of the valley, and to see whether the vine flourished, and the pomegranates budded (The Song of Solomon 6:11).

In this song, garden is mentioned nine times, in the first three, it is referred to as her garden but the last six are his. This is the fourth time his garden is mentioned and the only time the word nut and valley are used in this love song. The woman is explaining that she went to his garden, where she is well fed and staying under his watchful eye.

In Hebrew the word see is (7200) raw-aw' and means to see, advise, appear, approve, behold, certainly consider, discern, enjoy, gaze, have vision, observe, watch, look upon, look at, inspect, perceive. The bride is going to see what is happening in the valley. The word used here for valley is (5158) nakh'-al in Hebrew and is referring to a narrow valley in which a stream runs. The words flourished and budded are speaking of the buds breaking forth. Budded is (5132) noots a primitive root word that means; to flash, hence to blossom (from the brilliancy of color) also to fly away, (from the quickness of motion), bud forth.

Nuts are only mentioned one other time in the bible and that is in Genesis “And their father Israel (also called Jacob) said to them, If it must be so, then do this: Take some of the best fruits of the land in your vessels and carry down a present for the man-a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachio nuts and almonds” ( Genesis 43:11). Here is the explanation to why the men were ordered to bring nuts along with other costly gifts to Egypt.

Jacob was the man who wrestled with God until God blessed him and changed his name to Israel (Genesis 35:10). He had 12 sons, the youngest one Joseph was his favorite The older brothers were jealous so they took Joseph and sold him into slavery, telling their Father that he had been killed. (Genesis 37:12-36) Joseph grew up to be a very godly man, (Genesis 39:2) he was successful and became the overseer of the house of an Egyptian master.

The land where his father and brothers lived had a great famine. Having no food they had to go to Egypt to beg for food. The country of Egypt had gathered and saved food under Josephs' guidance. He had become the governor by this point in time. Jacob sent his sons to get the food so they could eat and live, he had no idea that Joseph was alive and in Egypt, he thought his son had been dead for quite some time. Although Joseph recognized his brothers he acted like a stranger, so they did not know who he was. (Genesis 42:7) Joseph did not reveal himself but showed mercy, filing their sacks with grain. He also had the the money they had paid with hidden in the sacks of grain. It is a very detailed story that you can read all about in Genesis 41-48.

When the brothers returned home and found their money in the sacks they were very afraid, knowing there was a penalty of death for stealing. They hoped they would not have to return but eventually the grain was eaten and their bins were empty. They had no other choice since they had run out of food again, the brothers had to go back to Egypt. Their father Jacob told them to bring the most costly gifts they had, fruit, spices, pistachio nuts and almonds, plus double the money their second visit. More about Joseph's story in the next devotional.

Nuts come from mature trees and were a very important part of the economy because they were valuable for their protein, food value, oil, and dye. The trees themselves provided shade from the heat and eventually wood for building.

The bride is going down into the valley, out in the world looking for flourishing fruitful vines.

We know that there is only one way for a branch, to flourish and that is to abide in the vine. Jesus said, “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:4-5).

The bride is going to look for others who are flourishing, by being intimately acquainted with the king. She is looking for those like her who have matured from the budding flowery stage to the fruit bearing level.

Do you have friends who are bearing fruit? Hang out with them and study God's word with them so you can bear fruit together. Talk together of the wonders of our King Jesus. Be ready like Joseph to make choices that show you are abiding in Jesus.

Day 87 ~ Reflecting

2011-03-28T01:00:00.000-07:00

(The Holy Spirit speaks)

Who is she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners? (The Song of Solomon 6:10)

Many scholars believe that these words are the Holy Spirit directly speaking of the bride. These words of praise use metaphors to compare her beauty to that of the heavenlies; the dawn, the moon, the sun and once again the army banners of victory. The groom is commenting how he sees his bride rise early to seek God.

The Hebrew word for morning is (7837) shakh'-ar meaning dawn, early light, whence riseth and is from the primitive root word (7836) shaw-khar', which means; dawn, be up early at any task, earnestness, to search for (with painstaking), inquire early, rise, seek diligently early in the morning.

This king knows that his bride is victorious in her personal life when he compares her to the moon. He considers her fair as the moon which reflects light by borrowing it from the sun. He knows that what is shining forth in her life is the image of God that is only obtained by spending time in His presence. The moon is also said to represent the ceremonial law that although it reflected God's light it was imperfect and changed like the moon does daily. In the Bible the moon is called a faithful witness “It (Christ's throne) shall be established forever like the moon, even like the faithful witness in the sky, Selah” (Psalm 89:37).

Many Psalms like 89 end with the word Selah. (5542) seh'-law which means to lift up, exalt, calmly pause and think of that.

This lovely bride is clear like the sun, she exhibits great light as she walks in the beauty of her queenship exhibiting grace, strength and holiness. “But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day” (Proverbs 4:18).

“Thus let all Your enemies perish, O Lord! But let those who love Him be like the sun when it comes out in full strength” (Judges 5:31).

David, Solomon's father said “O GOD, You are my God; early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You...” (Psalm 63:1).

Our whole existence on this planet earth is based totally on the sun when you look at it scientifically. We need the sun so plants will grow to feed us, for warmth, to stay alive. Yet someday we will see that “The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the glory of God illuminated it, The Lamb of it's light” (Revelation 21:23).

Once the wedding takes place and we the bride are married to Jesus our Lamb filled with light we will no longer need the physical sun to survive.

The bridegroom once again compares his bride to a banner, showing that this lovely woman is now victorious over evil and all difficulties she will experience. .

As believers we are soldiers in Christ's army fighting the evil forces in this world “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).

God has promised to help us, “He will set up a banner for the nations, and will assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth” (Isaiah 11:11).

Are you victorious? Are you spending time in His presence so that you are reflecting His light to everyone you meet? Are you allowing God to use you as a powerful weapon in His kingdom? Write down any shadows, things that are blocking you from being all that Jesus wants you to be. Then ask Jesus to help you change so that His light can shine brightly to those lost in the darkness. Seek Him early and diligently so he can make you into the instrument He created you for.

Day 86 ~ Walking in Love, it is a Process.

2011-03-27T01:58:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

My dove, my undefiled is but one; she is the only one of her mother, she is the choice one of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; yea, the queens and the concubines, and they praised her (The Song of Solomon 6:9).

The king continues to compliment his bride on her gentleness, uprightness, purity and singleness of heart. He admires her and sees her as perfectly upright. Solomon understood this specialness because he was his mother's favorite son which he shares in the Old Testament, “When I was my father's son, tender and the only one in the sight of my mother” (Proverb 4:3).

When the groom uses the word only in the first part of this verse he is using the Hebrew word (905) bad, which means separation as a part of the body, a branch of a tree, part of. When the term only one is used the Hebrew word is (3173) che ' yaw-kheed', this means, an only one, an only child, a unique one, solitary, a precious life comes from a word that means “to be one.” This is the same word used to describe Abraham's unique miracle child, Issac. In the New Testament in John 3:16 “His only begotten Son” is translated “His Son” or “His Yachid”. This describes the unique relationship of the Son with the Father and in this case with the bride and her mother. From her birth her mother new that she was extra special. She was her mother's incredible darling. Not an only child but a choice one one that is more excellent than any other.

In Hebrew the word for choice is (1249) bar and it is the only time that Solomon uses bar in this song. It means beloved, pure, empty, choice, clean, sincere and clear it comes from the primitive root word (1305) baw-rar' which means, to clarify, to purify, cleanse, brighten, examine, select, chosen, test, prove.

The brides presence brightened her mother's life and blessed her sisters. Her life has been impacting theirs as she is a model of faithfulness for them to consider and reflect upon.

The Hebrew word for blessed is (833) aw-shar, it is used only this one time in this song and means, to go straight, to be blessed, to be level, right, happy, to go forward, walk, go on, advance, make progress be honest and prosper.

The women. the concubines that were her junior in rank, and queens her equal are singing of how she out shines all the other queens and concubines. They esteem her with high regard creating a unity between them in a situation where there was a potential for division and jealousy.

Caiaphas the high priest prophesied how Jesus would bring about unity “and not the nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad” (John 11:52 ).

Christ's love is the center of the brides unity as His body and He teaches us how to do this with each other. We can learn to take the time to celebrate and look for the best in others loving them as Christ loves us. We can learn what real love looks like by looking into the word, “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

As we learn to walk in love and try our best to walk like Jesus did we need to realize it is a process, “till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man,to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13). The word perfect here means mature and whole.

As we think about Christ's love for us it helps us be more loving toward others. We need to make sure we are not arguing about things that cause division but looking for ways that bring unity. Today ask the Lord to show you any unloving actions or words that are in your life. Ask Him to show you how to change those words and actions into love, to mature you. Ask Him to allow His love to flow through you to others especially other women in you life where there is a potential for jealousy and division.

Day 85 ~ You are His Special Person.

2011-03-26T01:57:00.000-07:00

There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and they praised her (The Song of Solomon 6:8).

The king sings out these incredible praises to his bride publicly so that others in the kingdom can hear. He wants this girl to know that even though he has numerous wives and concubines that she is the one that holds the highest prestige in his entourage, she is his favorite.

Solomon's great-great granddaughter married a man who experienced this same admirable love for his bride as this king is expressed in the verse to follow. “Now Rehoboam loved Maachah the granddaughter of Absalom more than all his wives and concubines; for he took eighteen wives and sixty concubines, and begot twenty-eight sons and sixty daughters” (2 Chronicles 11: 21).

Not only did the bridegroom convey this greeting to his wife he made sure that all the other women on the court recognized and praised, her.

In Hebrew the word praised is haw-lal' (1984) a primitive root word that means; to be clear, to shine forth light, hence to make a show, to boast, and thus to be (clamorously) foolish, to rave, to celebrate, commend, glory. There are four different words for praise in Bible this particular one conveys the idea of singing or speaking about the glories, honor or virtue of someone or something. The word hallelujah comes from this word and means we must praise, God (Jah).

In this love song not only is the king singing haw-lal' about his bride the other women are reflecting an admirable attitude toward her also.

David, Solomon's father shared this type of exuberant reflection of love when the ark, (which was an earthly vessel that carried God presence) was brought into Jerusalem. He was so excited that after he offered up sacrifices, “David danced (whirled about) before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod” (2 Samuel 6:14).

He continued offering up sacrifices, leaping, whirling and dancing before the LORD, to the point that it embarrassed his wife.

It is amazing to watch love develop between two people. It is common to hear the lovers share unique and captivating words with each other and anyone who will listen to them talk about the incredible feelings they are experiencing.

“For as a young man marries a virgin, so shall your sons marry you; and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5).

Did you know that God is rejoicing over you!!! God is greatly happy, joyous and glad in a way that is as far from mourning as one can get. We are irresistible to Him, He celebrates us and wants us to celebrate Him.

God is a god of order and He has made it clear that we the “body of Christ” will judge the world and the angels. (1 Corinthians 2-3) Jesus came for us the “seed of Abraham”, His bride. “For indeed He does not give aid to angels, but He does give aid to the the seed of Abraham” (Hebrews 2:16). And “who being the brightness of His glory and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become so much better than the angels, as He has by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they” (Hebrews 1:3-4).

He is the King on the throne and we are His chosen queen.

Jesus has done all that is necessary to clean us up and make us His bride. In being His bride He has made us a queen. “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). We need to accept and believe this.

There is nothing in this earthly realm nor in the heavenly realm that is more beautiful then the holiness of the Bride of Christ and her relationship of being one with God.

Since we are chosen we must act like it making sure we walk in an excellent manner. What does that look like? It does not mean that we can become perfect, not is it a list of rules. We need to seek excellence in everything we do. How we act toward our family members, coworkers, strangers on the street is it honorable to God? If we keep the perspective that God is watching and that we will act accordingly. Practical everyday things like being kind to others, helping where we can, doing quality work. Joyce Meyer puts it this way, returning the shopping cart, putting things back in a store where they belong, picking up trash on the ground, cleaning up our own messes, holding the door open. Make sure you line your life up with His excellency it attitude and action you are a royal queen.

Day 84 ~ Where's Your Mind?

2011-03-25T01:55:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

As a piece of a pomegranate are thy temples within thy locks (The Song of Solomon 6:7).

The groom continues to list the wonderful qualities of his bride, he repeats some of the words from 4:3. We have looked at the importance of the pomegranate, especially in Solomon's culture. Temples simply are (7541) rak-kaw' in Hebrew and mean the same thing today as it did back then, the side of the head. Between those temples lies the brain and mind. The groom is telling this lovely woman that he sees that she has her mind set perfectly on him, she has let go of the past and is not dwelling on the peasant life that she came from.

God worked on restoring Israel and getting her back on track. “For behold the days are coming,; says the LORD, that I will bring back from captivity My people Israel and Judah, says the LORD, And I will cause them to return to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they shall possess it'” (Jeremiah 30:3)

God promises to take care of anyone who sets their mind and trust on Him. “You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts You” (Isaiah 26:3).

As the bride yields everything and trusts her king a perfect peace has entered her life. The king notices this peace and is acknowledging that he has noticed the incredible change that is coming from within.

Jesus taught us how important it is to set our mind on our King, this was recorded exactly the same way in three different gospels Jesus' words are, “ You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment” (Matthew 22:37-38, Mark 12:30, Luke 10:27).

The word mind in Greek is diavnoia; dee-an'-oy-ah (1271) and means “A thinking through”. We are to understand, meditate, reflect and perceive God with all our mind, soul and body.

Paul explains it this way “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2). When we do this Paul goes on to say “For who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?' But we have the mind of Christ” (1Corinthians 2:16).

We must learn to tap into Christ's mind by meditating, reflecting and understanding His word. Take a piece of paper and in your own hand writing write out Jesus's words. Now go focus on them going over each word slowly and meditatively. Ask Jesus to show you how to love Him with all of your heart, mind and soul. Ask Him for scriptures to fix your mind on, to keep you in perfect peace no matter what is going on. Remember His perfect peace casts out all fear.

Day 83 ~The Infinite Worth in Self-denial.

2011-03-24T01:54:00.000-07:00

Mama buffalo leading and protecting her young.

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Thy teeth are as a flock of sheep which go up from the washing, whereof every one beareth twins, and there is not one barren among them (The Song of Solomon 6:6).

The king repeats what he said in 4:2, letting his bride know that things did not change while they were apart. He is complementing her on not just the looks of her clean teeth but on her speech, attitude and submissive behavior. She has been transformed and has let go of her will and is able to walk in a way that releases and blesses others. In true submission she like the sheep has submitted to the washing, she gives value and respect to what he has asked of her. In self-denial one realizes they are of infinite worth by being able to hold others interests above their own. The bride has done this and her king knows it and repeats how much it pleases him.

In Hebrew sheep is the word (7353) raw-kale', a journey, a ewe, female sheep, a good traveler. The name Rachel is taken from this word.

The bride is blessed not just once but doubly blessed. God's divine promise given to Moses in the Old Testament (Genesis 22:16-17) is repeated in the New Testament “surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply you” (Hebrews 6:14).

Throughout the bible from Genesis to Revelation we see God blessing His people, “Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it” (Genesis 1:28).

Beareth (8382) is a primitive root word and is taw-am' in Hebrew, it means to be complete' duplicate, bear twins.

As the bride, children of God and the body of Christ we are given great blessings and acceptance, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons of Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:3-6).

Do you see yourself as the adopted sheep of Jesus? Did you know He choose you before he even created the world? He saw you as His child holy and blameless because of the blood of the lamb. How can you become more like the lamb? Commit to living a selfless life by thinking on how Christ did it.

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bond servant, and coming in the likeness of men, and being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death on the cross” (Philippians 2:5-8 ).

Make a conscience choice to let Christ's selfless thinking dwell in you by seeing how Jesus, one who is equal to God choose to empty Himself of all His privileges, His very divine essence. He relinquished and emptied himself and did not even allow himself to feel or even think that He was being ripped off. He became a human and not some uppity wealthy king but a common person with out any of His Godly glory. He became obedient to God who allowed Jesus to suffer a very painful death for our sakes. Puts our trivial little whining in it's place now doesn't it. Accept you blessings but realize there was a great cost for them.

Day 82 ~ What is Your Testimony?

2011-03-23T01:53:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Turn away thine eyes from me, for they have overcome me; thy hair is as a flock of goats that appear from Gilead (The Song of Solomon 6:5).

At first glance it may appear as if the king is telling his bride to turn away from him, he is not. This loving groom is actually acknowledging in a poetic way that he is enamored and completely over taken by her love and beauty. He is asking her to spin around so he can admire her beauty from all sides. Just picture how little girls enjoy doing this, especially when they get a new puffy dress.

Matthew Henry says in his commentary that this verse is sometimes translated “Turn thy eyes towards me” meaning we should turn our eyes of love and faith toward Jesus.

“With a little wrath I hid My face from you for a moment; but with everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you, Says the LORD, your Redeemer” (Isaiah 54:8).

This king has redeemed the poor peasant girl and made her a queen and he is making sure that he proclaims to everyone how marvelous their relationship is.

The Hebrew word for eyes is (5869) ah'-yin and it is defined like this; as showing mental qualities, of mental and spiritual faculties, a fountain as the eye of the landscape.

Moses wrote a poetic song given to him from God. The Israelites learned and repeated these words which bore witness to the covenant God made with His bride. Here is part of it; “He found him (Israel) in the desert land and in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye” (Deuteronomy 32:10).

The eye has to do with focus of the body and heart. God the King of kings has kept His bride as the apple of His eye just as the beloved groom in this love song is commenting on how the love between he and his bride is not just in the physical but a deep inner passion that has conquered him. The groom is overcome and totally captured by her loveliness and comeliness on every level.

Maybe God allowed King Solomon the ability to foresee us, Christ's bride completely washed in the blood and without spot and wrinkle, adding to the deep inner knowledge of true love? Maybe we are who he saw when he penned this verse.

As the king compares her hair with a flock of goats that is playfully frolicking down the mountain of Gilead. He uses the primitive root word for Gilead which is (1567) gal-ade' in Hebrew and means; heap of testimony, the pile of stones heaped up between Jacob and Laban to certify their covenant; located on Mt Gilead. These different external signs are used to testify of things that have happened or people that once lived. A symbol for future generations that someone was here.

Mary showed her love and devotion with the outward sign of her testimony by wiping Christ's feet with her hair. Jesus loved Mary deeply and was overcome by her great love for Him. (John 11:2)

Jesus said “These things I have spoken to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation' but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). In Revelation we learn “These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful” (Revelation 17:14).

“By this you know the Spirit of God; every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:2-4).

“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Revelation 3:21).

The king was enthralled with the passionate love relationship they were experiencing and he openly proclaimed it to all. Christ's love for us His bride gives us an overcoming testimony that is more powerful than any evil that has or will ever exist. When we are his children and overcome the world we please Jesus in ways that are hard to explain in our earthly language. This is why King Solomon had to use words that expressed the most beautiful sights that were happening in his day. The flow of well fed flocks of goats who provided abundant blessings in the kings day was a way for him to bless his bride with words in this love poem.

What is your testimony? What outward actions are you showing in your life to share what Christ has done for you to others? Write down your testimony and tell someone what your wrote down. It is fine to practice with someone who knows you and may help you hone this skill of telling others how lovely they are to Christ.

Day 81 ~ What Flag Flies Over You?

2011-03-22T01:51:00.000-07:00

(The Bridegroom speaks)

Thou art beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners (The Song of Solomon 6:4).

The king has reentered the scene and begins to speak. He starts to explain how radiantly delightful his bride is to him. This is the first time he has used the specific word, beautiful (6643) which is tseb-ee', in Hebrew and means in the sense of prominence; splendor (as conspicuous) as a gazelle, glorious, goodly, pleasant.

The groom calls the woman 'my love' and compares her to Tirzah which in Hebrew is teer-tsaw' (8656) and means delightsomeness, it is from the primitive root word (7521) raw-tsaw' which means to be pleased with, to satisfy a debt; accept, accomplish, set affection, approve, consent with, delight, enjoy, have favour, or pardon. He sees his bride's heart as he gazes upon her, expressing that her beauty is so delightful that it is like the banners that a winning army flaunts through the streets when they defeat a kingdom. Banners is the Hebrew word (1713) daw-gal' and means to flaunt, raise a flag, to be conspicuous, (set up with) it is only used six times in the bible and three of those times are in this song.

When King David was urgently in need of restored favor from God he wrote a testimony that was to be used for teaching the truth in the midst of a pagan world that was filled with ignorance. “You have given a banner to those who fear You, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah” (Psalm 60:4). This banner a flag held up high was used as a rallying point of meeting.

As the bride loves her king, she elevates him in her life with word and action. In this relationship the groom protects, provides and cares for his beloved bride with deep passion, devotion and tenderness. The Psalmist explains how God protects, cherishes and treasures His Bride Israel “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people from this time forth and forward” (Psalm 125:2).

Just as the king was pleased with his bride, God made it known that He was pleased with Jesus, this is recorded in three different gospels; “And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying 'This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17, Mark 1:11, Luke 9:35).

God has made a way for us to please Him “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). It is not about the "amount" of faith we have. Jesus told us that if the size of our faith is as tiny as a mustard seed, if we believe even a tiny bit, that God is much bigger than what ever is going on and tell Him so, we please Him. It is not how big our faith is, but how big our God is.

In Psalm 147:11 it is written “The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His Mercy!” This means that God gets delight and joy every time we show Him respect, awe and reverence by confidently expecting with solid certainty that He will show us loving kindness, unfailing love, tenderness believing that He is faithful. It is not just about what we do but that we expect and believe, He hears us, loves us and wants to help us. He sees you as Tirzah already redeemed and purchased by His blood.

Do you have faith? What size is it? Get a mustard seed our of your spice cabinet and hold it in your hand. Is your faith this big? Do you trust him? Do you respect and believe He hears you? Then you give Him pleasure, you are pleasing to the Lord. Think about that! Praise Him for His everlasting Mercy. Seek Him and ask Him to show you how you can please Him even more.

Day 80 ~ How Deep Will You Go?

2011-03-21T01:04:00.000-07:00

(The Bride continues)

I am my beloveds and my beloved is mine; he feedeth among the lilies (The Song of Solomon 6:3).

Remember in 2:16 the bride said “My beloved is mine and I am his” do you see how she has turned that around now. Deep within her this bride knows that she belongs to the king and this is more important than just what he can do for her. She mentions how he is out among the lilies and she now understands how important it is for him to be out and about his father's business with people. Her life is not just about her anymore. Settled in the knowledge that they love each other so deeply that there is absolutely nothing that can or will ever come between them. Time, distance, circumstances will not stop their love or the purpose that God has for them. This peasant girl has figured out without a doubt that she belongs to the king and he to her. Now she is ready to join him in his work among the lilies (people), not just to talk about it.

Jesus clearly told his disciples what they needed to do to belong to him. These chosen men were arguing about who was the greatest in Jesus group of close friends, they were desiring to know who was His very best friend, who was the most important. This is what Jesus had to say, “'If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant to all.' Then He took a little child and set him in the midst of them. And when He had taken him in His arms, He said to them. 'Whoever receives one of these little children in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me, receives not Me but Him who sent me'” (Mark 9:35-37). The very best way to show others that we belong to Jesus is to serve others with His love, just as He showed us how.

God's love is like an ocean, too big to be comprehended, but touches everyone in some way.

There are people who have never viewed an ocean in their entire life. Yet the ocean does effect them, the whole earth is effected by these huge bodies of water, weather patterns, tides, rain and drinking water are all part of the water cycle that is directly related to each person. God's love touches the whole world in some way.

Some visit an ocean on vacation and enjoy it's sounds, smells and touch. Just as some believe that God exists but do not spend much of their life communing with Him.

Many live so near the ocean that they are constantly aware of its presence, the cycles of the tide, the sounds, scents and sights that effect many parts of their day.

A number of people go out on it in some type of a boat or cruiser. This gives them a different view and this new angle may help them see the water with a fresh perspective.

It is possible to get to know the Ocean even more closely. Putting on some snorkel gear and exploring a little deeper. Gaining a more intimate knowledge of the great body of water.

Then there are some who actually do all that is necessary to prepare to go to an even deeper level. They scuba dive and learn even more of it's infinite depths.

Even fewer yet have been able to go down to the depths in a submarine or special machine and see things most have never heard of. The ocean doesn't change but the knowledge the person gains changes.

God's love affects everyone in the world, just like the oceans water system does, if people acknowledge it or not. We choose what level we want to know Him on. Do we ignore Him completely and act as if He has no bearing on our life? Do we visit Him for “fun vacations” with retreats and special events? Have we allowed Him to effect each day that we live? Have we figured out how to plunge into the depths of His love and His word by preparing daily and spending time with Him?

Where are you in your walk with Jesus? Are you still in the “He is mine” part of your walk? That is fine there is nothing wrong with that place but are you feeling His calling for you to go deeper? Ask Him to help you go deeper within Him so you can know that you are His and He is yours.

Day 79~ Are You Helping to Gather in the Garden?

2011-03-20T01:03:00.000-07:00

(The Bride responds)

My beloved is gone down into his garden, to the beds of spices, to feed in the gardens, and to gather lilies (The Song of Solomon 6:2).

The bride begins to understand now where her beloved went. Seeking him with her heart and mind, remembering how wonderful he is, it dawned on her that she knew all along where he would be. He had asked her to go to the garden but she had refused. He must have gone back to the garden with a purpose to gather.

In Hebrew gather is (3950) law-kat' and is only used one time in this song, although it is used often throughout the bible. It is a primitive root word and means to pick, to gather, to glean. When someone gathers and gleans a harvest they collect little by little with patient effort.

When the woman refers to his garden she is referring to everyone under his leadership. The spices and lilies are the individuals who together make a garden. She is finally realizing more clearly what he wants her to do. The same thing that he had asked back in 1:8, to feed the young goats right along side him. She is gaining more understanding of his ways, his desire to nourish and strengthen those that love him. If she stays by his side she can work right along with him and never have to be separate from him again.

God often speaks of gathering a remnant of Israel in the Old Testament. In the New Testament both Matthew and Mark use the exact same words to record what Jesus had to say about a future gathering. “And the He will send His angels and gather His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of the earth to the farthest part of heaven” ( Matthew 24:31, Mark 13:27).

Jesus made it clear that while He walked here on earth He often wanted to gather those He loved under His wing like a hen gathers her chicks.

Do you believe that you are an individual part of God's garden? Do you know beyond a shadow of a doubt how precious you are to Him? Think about the ways Jesus has protected and fed you in your walk with Him, times when He has stepped into your day and made a difference. Did you get a nicer parking spot? A deal at the store. Beautiful weather on your day off of work. A special “sign” that let you know He was touching you? If not ask Him to touch you today in a way that lets you know that He is there and sending you kisses.

Day 78~ Your Purpose in Life Is???

2011-03-19T01:02:00.000-07:00

Oyster garden off the California coast.

(The Daughters of Jerusalem respond)

Whither is thy beloved gone, O thou fairest among women? Whither is thy beloved turned aside? That we may seek him with thee (The Song of Solomon 6:1).

In this turn of events the women respond, changing their question from “who is this man?” to “where can we find him?” We want to know him too. The word whither is not used much in our day and age but in Hebrew it is (575) awn and it translates to the word “where?”, according to the dictionary it is an adverb that means; to what place, situation or position, a degree or end. The women really want to get an answer to where the king could have possibly gone. These ladies are not just curious to look at him but they realize that they are seeking the kind of love and acceptance that the bride says her king has to offer. Their thoughts of her having true beauty continue, as they repeat their words by calling her the fairest of all.

In Hebrew only one word is used for the two English words turned and aside. The word (6437) paw-naw' means to turn, to face, appear, look, dawning, go away, turn aside. Very different from the word aside that was used in 1:7 which was to cover or veil something. The word seek here is the exact same one as used in 3:2.

The woman of Jerusalem are desirous of the king and have reached a point where they now want to fellowship with him, to know his perfections and excellencies. The fire has been kindled and they have come to love him just by hearing the bride describe him in song with such marvelous word pictures.

Throughout the scriptures especially the Psalms we are continually reminded to “Seek God”. It was the heart cry of David constantly as he knew that the best place to ever be was in a place where he could see God's face, feel his breath, hear is whisper. The only way to do that is to seek God's face diligently, spending time with this single purpose to earnestly find Him.

“Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the LORD, till He comes and rains righteousness on you” ( Hosea 10:12).

Jesus put it this way, “ Again the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys the field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it” (Matthew 13:44-46).

These women may have not even been looking for something that day. Yet they knew in their hearts immediately that they had stumbled upon someone who would provide them with great treasure, delight and joy. Willing to give up their plans for the day and go seek after him, choosing to do whatever was necessary to be able to posses this great love. If the bride had remained in the chambers and never publicly proclaimed about the wondeful love that she had found, these women would not have known about any of this.

Jesus is asking us to tell others of His love, of the difference He has made in each of our lifes.

Have you been looking for your purpose in life? Do you wonder why God even put you on this earth? Well here is one purpose you can start to work on, you are hear to bless others and tell them what Jesus has done in your life. Who can you tell today? Think of ways of showing someone Christ's love today so they can see the difference He has made in you.

Day 77~The Lord Takes Pleasure in You

2011-03-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

(The Shulamite Woman with extravagant, exuberant worship)

His mouth is most sweet; yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend O daughters of Jerusalem (The Song of Solomon 5:16).

In the previous verse of the woman's extravagant and exuberant song she praises everything about her groom. She sings of the sweetness of his mouth, his words and their communications in intimacy. The kisses of his mouth, all the tokens of his love, are delicious, pure essence of all delights. She knows her words are falling short, he is just too marvelous to describe with mere human words, so she settles on the words “altogether lovely”. He has within him all that one can desire and there is no earthly communication than can adequately explain this. She boldly proclaims that he is her friend. She will not rest contently until she is with him, she needs to feel his embrace, hear his voice, look into his eyes, kiss his lips.

Mouth is(2441) khake in Hebrew which means; in the sense of tasting; the palate or inside of the mouth; hence the mouth itself (as the organ of speech, taste and kissing).

The bride says that her king is wholly or to the full extent lovely, (4261) makh-mawd', which translates; delightful, hence a delight, object of affection or desire, beloved, pleasant. She can not think of anything in the whole world that exists that would delight her more than to be intimate with him.

Beloved is used often in this whole book but this is the only time the Hebrew word for friend (7453)ray'-ah is used. It means; an associate, brother, companion, fellow, friend, husband, lover. She urgently and passionately wants the ladies to know how wonderful he is in all ways. It is settled in her heart, the king has done for her, that what God did for Israel.

“For your Maker is your husband, the Lord of hosts is His name: and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; He is called the God of the whole earth” (Isaiah 54:5).

The beloved king has redeemed this young woman from a peasant's life, transported her into his kingdom, and has provided everything she would ever want or need. The bride in this beautiful story knows that there is a faithful allegiance wrapped in Godly love between them and it will last forever. In God's particular plan for marriage He has created an order in which the husband is a protector and provider who cares for and deeply loves his wife on many levels.

Jesus put it this way “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends” (John 15:13). She knows that he will lay down his life for her if necessary. She is deeply loved.

Jesus has done this for anyone who desires a relationship with Him.

Many times we may wonder if we are pleasing to God, we may even doubt His love. Look at Psalm 147:11 “The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His Mercy!” Pleasure means delight and joy, do you know that you bring pleasure to God? How, you ask? When you show Him respect with awe and reference by confidently expecting Him with solid certainty to show you loving kindness, unfailing love, tenderness and faithfulness. It's not just what you do, but your attitude toward Him that pleases. Tell Him that you know He is listening and that you honor Him and are devoted to Him. Think of his loveliness and excellency which is greater than this earthly king for his bride.

Day 76 ~Are You Looking Into His Face?

2011-03-17T01:59:00.000-07:00

(The Shulamite Woman with extravagant, exuberant worship)

His legs are as pillars of marble, set upon sockets of fine gold; his countenance is as Lebanon, excellent as the cedars (The Song of Solomon 5:15).

The bride exuberantly continues to magnify her groom with song. Extravagantly describing his muscular legs with idioms of the day. Acknwledging that his excellent face and expressions are superior to any other. She compares his strong legs to the pillars that were hand crafted by artesians and set upon strong foundations. He is stable and steadfast, he has the ability to take on great responsibility with magnificence and stateliness. Lebanon a stately hill known for it's pleasantness, beauty and charm. Cedars the strong fragrant and tall trees, which never rot and excel all others with it's many useful purposes. The woman is also stating that she understands that she is treasured by the king and favored by God.

A Psalmist said “The Lord looks from heaven, He sees all the sons of men. From the place of His dwelling He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth; He fashions their hearts individually; He considers all their works” (Psalm 33:13-15). Just as the marble workers crafted raw marble into strong pillars God molds our hearts for His good purposes.

The word sockets is (134) eh'-den in Hebrew and means in the sense of strength; a basis of a building, a column, foundation, socket and comes from the primitive root word (113) aw-done'; which is sovereign, controller (human and divine), lord, master, owner.

This woman understands that her king is strong because he allows God to be his master and his foundation.

Countenance is translated from the Hebrew word (4758) mar-eh' meaning; a view (the act of seeing), handsome, comeliness, appearance, beautiful, fair, favored, form, goodly, pattern, vision.

The king is handsome and strong like the mountains of Lebanon and the cedar trees that grow upon it. His countenance affected her just like it does us when we look into our Lords face, He changes us. “In the light of the King's face is life, and his favor is like a cloud of the latter rain” (Proverbs 16:15).

When Jesus appeared after His resurrection to Mary “His countenance like lightning and his clothing as white as snow” (Matthew 28:3). His appearance changed everyone who was with Him.

We can read what the king said about Daniel's countenance “I've heard about you, that the Spirit of God is in you and that light and understanding and excellent wisdom are found in you” (Daniel 5:14).

Are you looking into His face? Seeking understanding and wisdom? You are not sure how, spend time in His word, don't just skim the words but find a verse or two. Write it out. Repeat it over and over. Study it by getting meanings of individual words. This type of meditation will help you see His countenance and allow you to see the beauty that changes you from the inside out. When we learn more about our King, I mean really study Him, not what everyone else says about Him we will be able to sing more deeply of his comeliness and hear Him singing over us.

Day 75 ~ Look at His Belly, What do You See?

2011-03-16T01:59:00.000-07:00

(The Shulamite Woman with extravagant, exuberant worship)

His hands are as gold rings set with the beryl; his belly is as bright ivory overlaid with sapphires (The Song of Solomon 5:14).

The bride continues her luxuriously sumptuous worship in this magnificent song. As she contemplates and reflects on every detail of her groom, she begins to sing of his hands and belly. This peasant girl remembers his hands, not to long ago at her door (5:4), moved deep within her belly with love for him then and even exceedingly more so now.

This woman knows that her beloved is more precious than anything. More cherished to her than gold rings as this love extends deep within his heart and soul. His gentle hands are guiding, feeding and loving her on every level. She speaks of providence knowing that he has made provision for her future. His grace is displayed in his handsomeness and royalty, mingled with authority and commitment. The work of his hands are fitted for a purpose, like a ring is to the finger.

The word Hebrew for ring is (1550) gaw-leel' meaning round. It comes from the primitive root (1556) gaw-lal' which means to commit and trust. A ring is often a reminder of a promise or commitment made between two people. This token of love, formed into a never-ending circle not only indicates a relationship but represents the continuing love of God that never fails, it is never haughty or puffed up.

Beryl is a precious blueish green gem. This stone is mentioned in Exodus as one of the stones that God had the craftsmen place in the ephod. It was set in gold mountings and placed on the breastplate which Aaron wore over his heart, to symbolize the bearing of Israel before God. (See Exodus 28:15-30)

Ezekiel and Daniel both use the likeness of this costly stone when describing something or someone that they see in the future. Many scholars believe these descriptions are talking about God and Jesus.

“And when I looked, there were four wheels by the cherubim, one wheel by one cherub and another wheel by each other cherub; the wheels appeared to have the color of beryl stone” (Ezekiel 10:9).

In Daniel we read about the vision of a glorious man; “His body was like beryl, his face like the appearance of lightening, his eyes like torches of fire, his arms and feet like burnished bronze in color, and the sound of his words like the voice of a multitude” (Daniel 10:6).

Finally this brilliant jewel is listed as the eighth layer in foundation wall of New Jerusalem in Revelation 21:20. It is obviously very important to God.

The kings very core is compared with ivory, a precious substance of strength made from the tusks and teeth of animals. It has been prized for its luminous beauty for thousands of years. In this time period ivory was considered as precious as gems and gold, a sign of extravagant wealth and strength. It also represents that their love is strong and firm, of inestimable value.

Sapphires treasured for their beauty were also represented Israel upon the ephod, the special priestly garment. This was ordered by God and done in a very specific and purposeful design.

The bride harmoniously sings of her love's belly being covered with sapphires. This brilliant jewel is first mentioned in the Bible when Moses, Aaron, Nadab and Abihu along with seventy elders saw God, “and they saw the God of Israel, and there was under His feet as it were a paved work of sapphire stone, and it was like the very heavens in its clarity” (Exodus 24:10).

Belly is translated from the same word as bowel in verse 4, it speaks of the kings tender, personal and compassionate attributes.

As you think about Christs loving hands and tender belly today is it difficult for you? His hands are easier to think of as they are considered a public body part. We can imagine his hands being strong, quick to bless , able touch and remove illness. But His belly, seems pretty intimate and causes thoughts of who me? I am not good enough, pleasing enough or able to see Jesus's belly. Replace those thoughts with verses that show you how deep His love is for you. “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love” (John 15:9). Write this verse down and meditate on it.

Day 74 ~ Enjoy Some Spice

2011-03-15T01:58:00.000-07:00

(The Shulamite Woman with extravagant, exuberant worship)

His cheeks are as a bed of spices, as sweet flowers: his lips like lilies, dropping sweet smelling myrrh (The Song of Solomon 5:13).

The bride's song continues as she sings robustly of the attributes of her sweetheart. She began at the top of his head and is working downward. Reaching his face, she recalls his cheeks and lips that lovingly smiled at her. The face she had touched, the lips that had met hers, she recalls the sweet refreshing scent he carries. A mix of spices, blended with flowers, she detects lilies, a delightful fragrance that tickled her senses.

This song is the only place I could find in the Bible where cheek was used in a loving way. All other places spoke of a smiting of the cheek or a strike with a rod as a type of reproach. Even Judas most likely used Jesus' cheek for his betrayal.

The word used here for bed is (6170) ar-oo-gaw' in Hebrew and comes from the primitive root word (6165)aw-rag' which means; to long for; cry, pant.

The woman longs for her king the same way the psalmist desired God “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.” (Psalm 42:1-2).

The peasant girl yearns for her beloved with such a deep longing, that just the thought of him sustains her to keep on searching. Her deepest desire is to find him and be wrapped up in his loving embrace once again.

As she dwells on how lovely his lips are, she recalls his words of love and breaks out in even more joyful exuberant worship. She is eager to express everything out loud knowing that others hearing her voice will gain knowledge and be changed just by hearing about her king. She saw others transform when her beloved fed their spirits with his kind words. This young woman most likely knew the proverb written by Solomon that explains “The lips of the righteous feed many (Proverbs 10:21)”.

The sight of droplets and the scent of myrrh reminds us of Jesus's sweet smelling sacrificial blood, “And being in agony, He prayed more earnestly. Then His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground” (Luke 22:44). Jesus said “For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remissions of sins” (Matthew 26:28).

This all happened just before He went out to the Mount of Olives at Gethsemane. Mount of Olives means oil press, a place where olives are crushed so the oil can be extracted.

Today spend time meditating on how lovely our Lord Jesus is. While you do brew some tea that is spicy or place some of your favorite smelling spices in some boiling water and purposely and slowly enjoy the scent. If you have time walk through a flower garden, green house or florist and enjoy the many pleasing smells. Buy yourself some flowers meditating on the creator of those flowers loveliness. Think of the extravagant love He has for you. Tell Him how lovely He and His Word are.

Day 73 ~ Look Into His Eyes

2011-03-14T01:56:00.000-07:00

(The Shulamite Woman with extravagant, exuberant worship)

His eyes are as the eyes of doves by the rivers of waters, washed with milk, and fitly set (The Song of Solomon 5:12).

The bride continues to sing, now sharing what she observes about his eyes. They are pure like a dove fair and chaste, clear and kind. His eyes are strong and powerful like a mighty river. The whites are as pure and clean as milk and are not sunk in but in their proper place.

He had said she has dove's eyes earlier, not she is echoing this loving statement and adding more.

Rivers are a natural stream of water that are larger than a brook. In this verse the bride uses a particular word for river that is a dual primitive root word. Since it is used in a singular sense it means that it has only one course. This is the only time the word river is used in this song.

In a previous verse we discovered what washed and milk mean, now let's look more closely at what fitly set means. Fitly is (4402) mil-layth' and means fullness, a plump socket of the eye. Set is (3427) yaw-shab, this primitive root word means to sit down, to dwell, to remain, to settle, to marry, to abide, inhabit, remain, tarry.

As the bride ponders on his eyes, she remembers his deep love for her. Knowing that he has committed to marry her, abide with her and remain with her forever brings her exuberant joy. She is aware that her beloved king is filled with wisdom, understanding, knowledge and discernment. Not only are his physical eyes nice to look at, his inner eye or soul is pleasant and merciful also.

As beautiful as a precious stone is, it becomes more glamorous when it is set in a metal. In a setting others can enjoy its beauty since the light can flow through from behind or under it causing it to sparkle and glisten.

In Jeremiah we read, “For I will set My eyes on them for good, and I will bring them back to this land I will build them and not pull them down, and I will plant them and not pluck them up” (Jeremiah 24:6).

When God told Israel that he would “set His eyes” on them He said he would have mercy, (7355) raw-kham' is the word in Hebrew and it means; have compassion on them, to love deeply, to show pity or mercy, to tenderly regard someone; to have tender love.

The bride understood that the same promise God gave to Israel, her beloved groom had given to her. She saw it in his eyes, heard it in his voice, felt it in his touch so now she was harmoniously singing about this profound extravagant love so that the women of Jerusalem would be drawn in also.

God's eyes are on you. In Proverbs we learn that “Your (God's) eyes saw my substance, being formed” (Proverbs 139:16). He knew you before your parents even knew you existed.

You are the apple of His eye. (Zechariah 2:8).

“The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry” (Psalm 34:15).

When you look into our Lord's eyes what do you see? Do you know his compassion? Do you doubt it is there? Do you believe He sees you? He has known you before you even exited your mother's womb and wants you to know how deeply He loves you. Can you recall a time when you went to watch a loved one perform at a music or sporting event, as you panned the performers the one you loved was searching the audience for you. The moment your eyes met both of you smiled. Jesus is looking at you searching for you and smiling as your eyes meet. If you are not sure ask Him, He is listening and waiting to show you. What do you want to see to know His love? Ask.

Day 72 ~ Who is Your King?

2011-03-13T01:54:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman with extravagant, exuberant worship)

His head is as the most fine gold, his locks are bushy, and black as a raven (The Song of Solomon 5:11).

As the bride continues singing of the virtues of her king she begins to list his many accomplishments and power in great detail. Starting with his head and hair and then on to his face, body, legs and back to his mouth.

The meaning for "head of gold" is defined in the book of Daniel when he revealed the meaning in Nebuchadnezzar's dream. “You, O king are a king of kings, for the God of heaven has given you a kingdom, power, strength, and glory; and wherever the children of men dwell, or the beasts of the field and the birds of the heaven, He has given them into your hand, and has made you ruler over them all you are this head of gold” (Daniel 2:37-38).

“Head of gold” shows supremacy and authority, that he is ruler over all, the king of kings.

Paul speaking of Christ says; “And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body of the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have preeminence” (Colossians 1:17-18). Paul also wrote “but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head-Christ” (Ephesians 4:15).

As the bride acknowledges her beloved's head she is proclaiming his kingship over her, she is proclaiming that she is willing to do whatever he asks.

As the woman sings of his bushy locks she is continuing to harmoniously declare his headship and sovereignty. This is the only time the word bushy is used in the bible, in Hebrew it is al-tal' (8534) and means to pile up, elevate like plumes of a feather. The groom's hair is jet black like a raven, letting us know he has no grey and is in his prime of life. Jesus was only thirty-three when He was crucified, in His prime of life, yet in Him is no decay, He is forever young.

We read “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Luke 12:6-7).

It is amazing the details that are important to our Lord, our King. He cares about every minute thing in our life and wants us to know that He does. Spend some time in exuberant worship today recognizing Jesus's headship in your life. Ask Him if there are areas that you are holding back and need to submit to His kingdom so he can rule over them. Give Him the praise He so deserves.

Day 71 ~ Are You Being Purified by the Son?

2011-03-12T01:52:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman with extravagant, exuberant worship)

My beloved is white and ruddy, the chiefest among ten thousand (The Song of Solomon 5:10).

Beautifully singing out a worshipful love song, the bride tells all who will listen how wonderful her king is. As she searches for him she is not looking at the circumstances but proclaiming what she knows deep within her. Her groom is the brightest, most handsome man in all the world, innocent, excellent and spotless. This woman knows that her king is willing to sacrifice everything for her, he will do all that it takes to keep her safe even if he has to go to battle and shed his own blood. He is not a coward but dazzling and conspicuous warrior.

Understanding that her king is pleased with her she is blessed to her very core.

The three descriptive words used in this verse to depict the king are the same words used to describe David the father of Solomon throughout the Bible. The first word white is (6703) tsakh in Hebrew and means dazzling, sunny, bright, evident. Like Christ's raiment at the transfiguration. The second word is the Hebrew word (132) ad-mo-nee' is translated as ruddy, it means red, reddish,(of the hair or the complexion). The third word chiefest is (1713)daw-gal' in Hebrew and means, to flaunt, raise a flag, to be conspicuous, set up with a banner.

When the term ten thousand is used it refers to something or someone that is one of a kind.

This is how David, Solomon's father is depicted in the Old Testament when he was a young man, “So he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with bright eyes, and good-looking. And the LORD said, “Arise, anoint him; for this is the one!” (1 Samuel 16:12).

In Lamentations 4:7 we also learn that at one time the nobles of Zion were pictured this way “The nobles were brighter than snow and whiter than milk; they were more ruddy in body than rubies, like sapphire in their appearance.”

The word ruddy has numerous meanings. Most agree that it portrays a person with vigorous health and a rosy complexion. A synonym for ruddy, sanguine sheds much light on the character of a person who is portrayed with such an exemplification. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary sanguine means 1: having a healthy reddish color: RUDDY 2: anticipating the best. 3: willing or anxious to shed blood.

Pause and really think about that third definition. Our King, Jesus was willing to and, did shed His blood to make us, His Bride white as snow.

When one is “made white” it is through a purifying process. Metal is made white hot when it is heated and melted to separate out the impurities.

“The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the Lord tests the hearts” (Proverbs 17:3).

In Daniel 11:35 “And some of those of understanding shall fall, to refine them, purify them, and make them white, until the time of the end; because it is still for the appointed time.” “ Many shall be purified, made white and refined, but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand” (Daniel 12:10). Daniel closes his book with the message that God's faithful must be refined, purified and made white.

“He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels” (Revelation 3:5).

These white garments are the robes of righteousness that Jesus has given us. Now we must take the time to keep them washed in His blood. How do we do that? By reading His word, meditating on it and envisioning what He has done, is doing and will do for us.

“And I said to him, 'Sir, you know.' So he said to me, 'These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore they are before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple. And He who sits on the throne will dwell among them.” They shall neither hunger anymore not thirst anymore; the sun shall not strike them, nor any heat' for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 7:14-17).

Have you told the Lord today how beautiful He is? How thankful you are that He shed his red blood, from His healthy body to wash us white as snow? His willingness to suffer pain and agony for us is sensed deep within our soul, dwell on it. Wash your robe in His blood by meditating on His word and doing what it says.

Day 70 ~ Only One Way

2011-03-11T01:51:00.000-08:00

Day 70

(Daughters of Jerusalem respond)

What is thy beloved more than another beloved, O thou fairest among women? What is thy beloved more than another beloved, that thou dost so charge us? (The Song of Solomon 5:9)

The women inquire of the bride, what makes this king so different than anyone else? Why is she so passionate and unrelenting in her search? Acknowledging her respectfully they call her fair and beautiful, they are captivated by the love she is speaking about. How can she love someone so deeply? Someone who has appeared to have abandoned her. They suggest that she move on and find another love, but her searching becomes even more vehement. So they ask again to tell them how they will know it is him, what makes him more charming than any other man? Isn't he just one fish in the pond? The door is wide open for her to share more deeply how wonderful he is and invite them to continue the search for him and him alone.

In Hebrew fairest is the word (3303) yaw-feh' it means: fair, beautiful or handsome. The women were calling the bride the most beautiful of all the women who existed.

Just as the woman knew that her king was the only one for her we must know that Jesus is the only one for us. His name is the name above all other names, He is the King of kings, He is the Truth, the Way and the life! The door has been opened for her to tell the others about her lover. She is doing what we have been asked to do, “But you are the ones chosen by God, chosen for the high calling of priestly work, chosen to be a holy people, God's instruments to do his work and speak out for him, to tell others of the night-and-day difference he made for you- from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted” (1 Peter 2:9-10 The Message).

The bride is ready to tell the ladies how marvelous her groom is and what the king has done for her. This poor peasant girl, brought into the kingdom to live like a queen, the bride of the king.

Another peasant girl in the bible was given a message by an angel, after she willingly submitted to God's plan for her life “And having come in the angel said to her, Rejoice highly, favored one, the Lord is with you: blessed are you among women!” (Luke 1:28). Mary the mother of Jesus was granted favor and happiness by God because she allowed God's will in her life, even when she did not understand.

In this day and age many wonder about different paths to the after life. Some are offended if a Christian says that there is only one way, but the Bible makes this very clear “Jesus said to him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6) “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and me, the Man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5). “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).

Have you searched out other ways to truth and found the dead ends they bring you too? Do you see people with great wealth, dream jobs, everything they could possibly need but they do not have peace? This is because there is only one way, not many! The way will not be found in this world or by accumulating worldly things. Have you shared openly with others about what Christ has done for you? Ask Him to bring someone across your path today that you can share the love of your King with.

Day 69~ Help!!!

2011-03-10T01:50:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman)

I charge you,m O ye daughters of Jerusalem, if ye find my beloved, that ye tell him, that I am sick of love (The Song of Solomon 5:8).

Although the woman was in pain, hurting deeply on a physical, spiritual and mental level, she cried out for help. This is the third time that the daughters of Jerusalem have been summoned in this song. The bride is calling out to the women of Jerusalem asking them to assist in finding the one she loves. She gives them a message to tell him if they see him before she does. She wants the king to know that she is beside herself looking for him, she is extremely sick because of his absence. All the foolish things she has done to offend him, causes her great pain and she is deeply sorry. She humbles herself and only wants one thing and that is to see his face and be in his presence.

The Hebrew word for sick is (2483)khol-ee', it is a prim root and means to be rubbed, or worn, hence figuratively to be weak, sick, afflicted, to grieve, make sick, be sorry, a woman in travail, be wounded.

“In this you greatly rejoice though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love, though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith- the salvation of your souls. Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow” (1 Peter 1:6-11).

Jesus said “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me” (Mark 8:34).

Searching, suffering, being tested, words we don't like to hear and things we would rather not think of. Matters we would rather be delivered from, or have neatly removed from our walk with Jesus. To escape is not the way of Christ, the suffering servant. We are to be like minded and follow in His footsteps to be more like Him. How do we do that? We search the scriptures diligently and then apply those truths to our life. We act upon what we have learned. One can know how to lose weight but until you eat less, exercise more and do what you know it won't work for you. Same with knowing Christ and His word, even Satan can quote scripture it must be applied and lived. What scripture needs to be applied to your life today? Write it down, meditate on it. Think about it all day long and let it deeply penetrate your soul.

Day 68 ~ Embrace Suffering? Ouch

2011-03-09T01:49:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman)

The watchmen that went about the city found me, they smote me, they wounded me; the keepers of the walls took away my veil from me (The Song of Solomon 5:7).

This panicked bride continues to search for her King. As she wanders in the dark calling him, looking, trying to find the one she loves with all her strength. The watchmen grab her refusing to listen to her speak. The girl wants to share how deeply she loves the king, but they will not listen. Stripping, beating and hurting her on a physical and emotional level they wound her and humiliate her trying to hinder her search. Stupefied that the ones that were suppose to be keeping her and the area safe, the authorities, who were paid to keep intruders out, were attacking her.

What an awful sight that is, if you really think about it. A harmless young peasant girl who is possibly lost and the people who should help her, turn on her and start harming her and treat her as a criminal. They do not even allow her to have a chance to share what it going on.

In Hebrew the word smote (5221) is naw-kaw' and means to strike (lightly or severely). Beat, cast forth, smite, strike, give stripes and surely wound. We are not sure how hard or deep the woman's wounds were but they were intended to harm her.

It is difficult to read this and not think of what Jesus went through. “Then they spat in His face and beat Him; and others struck Him with the palms of their hands” (Matthew 26:67). and again “Then they spat on Him, and took the reed and struck Him on the head” (Matthew 27:30). Not a very pretty picture is it? It is hard for me to even read those words much less try to imagine it or recall the vivid pictures that were recreated in the movie “The Passion”.

Cruelty and suffering is difficult to look at. It is much easier to see Jesus lifted up and risen, not just carrying our ugly sins and in brutal pain. It hurts, it stirs us deep within, it seems wrong especially when innocent people are hurt. Yet in God's big plan there are reasons for seasons of sufferings. Mistreatment, rejection, unjust persecution from people purifies us like nothing else can.

“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs-heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:16-18 ).

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceedingly and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but as the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

When our bodies have cancer more than likely the doctor has to make painful incision to remove the tumors. It may even hurt more for a while but in the end the temporary pain of surgery, can remove the larger problem of cancer. That is one way of viewing suffering. Either way there will be pain, but in all things we must trust that God knows what He is doing and that it is best for us when you look at eternity.

Jesus wants to rid us of pride, selfishness, a mean spirit, anything not of Him. When we love Him and are passionate about serving Him we are willing to give up self no matter how much it hurts, or what means are used to do it..

Have you felt Jesus peeling off layers of your flesh? Has He used people to put you into a place of suffering? It is painful! Ask Him to show you what you need to learn from any kind of suffering you are going through. Are you learning how to walk in love more deeply? To forgive and not allow offense and unforgiveness to creep in? Can you see places in your past when you suffered but then some time after that realized how it drew you so much closer to Jesus?

Day 67 ~ Where Did He Go?

2011-03-08T01:48:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman)

I opened to my beloved; but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone; my soul failed when he spake: I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer (The Song of Solomon 5:6).

The bride is disappointed and heartbroken. She finally had a change of heart, and made the decision to follow him wholeheartedly. She put action to her words, rising from her comfy bed, facing the cold and opening the door. The scent of him overwhelming her but, she was too late. He was not there, she listened for his voice, looked for his face, called out to him but she could not see or hear him no matter what she did. She is not about to crawl back into her bed, but she gets dressed and goes out to look for him.

The Hebrew word for withdrawn is khaw-mak' (2559), it is a prim root that means to enwrap; hence to depart, go about, withdraw self.

A type of separation is happening, the woman is wringing her hands, ready to tear her hair out, rip her clothes as some very deep emotions surface. She is devastated that she was the one who provoked his withdrawal. Her heart is about to break, wondering if she has ruined their relationship forever.

Have you ever lost a child in a busy mall, or gotten lost in a forest or desert yourself? The feeling of loss and panic are so deep it shakes you to your inner core. The bride has reached the point where the thoughts of never seeing him consumes her causing her to search for him. She did not ask him where he was going, she wasn't paying close enough attention to realize he was leaving for a while, she barely knows where to start.

A few days after Jesus was anointed by Mary he said to his disciples, “But now I go away to Him who sent Me, and none of you asks Me, 'Where are You going?' “But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you” (John 16:5). He continues in verse 16, “A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while and you will see Me, because I go to the Father.” He explains it again to the disciples in the following verses and then compares the pain to come to “A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come: but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world. Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you” (John 16:21).

It may not make sense to us when it seems like Jesus has left us, it surely did not make sense to the disciples when Jesus was preparing them for His death. After His death and resurrection it made more sense but it still shook them to their core.

Anyone who has a relationship with Jesus will go through times that appear as if He has left the scene. Things are not going according to our plans and it is near impossible to hear His voice or feel His presence. These are times of testing to see where are hearts desires really lie. Are we going to seek Him? Trust Him? Will we complain and try to figure things out our self? Will we look to the world to fill the empty feelings. Will we seek things or His face?

God warns us of a time that will come when the things of the world will be corrupt, life will continue to get harder. Things will look as if He has left, but He always makes a way out for those He loves. He will give the people a choice, but many will choose idols over Him. This is what He promises, “But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him, if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul, when you are in distress and all these things come upon you in the latter days, when you turn to the Lord your God and obey His voice (for the Lord your God is a merciful God), He will not forsake you nor destroy you; nor forget the covenant of your fathers which He swore to them” (Deuteronomy 4:29-31).

Where do your passions lie? Do you trust Him even when things do not appear like Jesus is around? Do you know that He is pleased with you? Copy down Deuteronomy 4:29-31 and put it somewhere that you can read it every day.

Day 66 ~ Do You Smell Like Myrrh?

2011-03-07T01:46:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman)

I rose up to open to my beloved; and my hands dripped with myrrh, and my fingers with sweet smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock (The Song of Solomon 5:5).

As the woman hears the king's voice pouring out his love and devotion, she is motivated to take pity on him. Ashamed of her slothfulness, she gets up to let him in, so he can get out of the cold. Knowing he is just outside the door, she opens it expecting to see his face and feel his embrace, but he is not there. His cologne smell lingers so she knows this was not a dream, nor her imagination. Her senses tell her that her beloved really was physically there. As she looks and touches she notices the door knob, covered in his sweet smelling scented oil. He had been there but now he is gone, the evidence is right there, the smell of myrrh that is left. She can not see him but does know on every level that he truly had been there it was not just a dream.

The words sweet and smelling are the same word, (5674)aw-bar' in Hebrew. It is a primitive root word which means to cross over, it is used very widely of any transition. A change is happening, she is aware that something is different within her. The bride has reached a point where she is able to fully commit to whatever he asks. This is not just a knowing in her head but a change in her heart that will help her to move into action. She is transitioning from the girl who was living for pleasure in his love, to a servant willing to walk in his love. This is a more elevated place of honor, and just the opposite of the world's way.

When Mary washed and rubbed Jesus' feet with the anointing oil she must have been covered with the scent herself. Scented oil's aroma does lingers for days.

Smells can be comforting if they have a pleasant memory attached to them, or bring disgust if they are unpleasant or remind a person of something ugly.

Myrrh signifies death and reminds us of the need to die to selfishness.

Jesus talked about the change to come when He was nearing death, “Most assuredly, I say to you unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor” (John 12:24-26).

When the women went to the tomb to find Jesus, He was not there. Yet the scent of myrrh still lingered there.

Think about the transitions that have occurred in your life. Which ones have been the most difficult? Have you been able to leave the “me world” behind and enter the life of a servant? Jesus said it would be difficult but if we trust Him we will eventually understand and make it through. What are you trusting Him with today? If it is something you can do for yourself you don't need faith in Him. How are you motivated by His love?

Day 65 ~ Do You Do or Just Think About It?

2011-03-06T01:45:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman)

My beloved put in his hand by the hole of the door, and my bowels were moved for him (The Song of Solomon 5:4).

The king's words did not persuade the woman to get out of the warm bed, deal with the cold air and let him in. So he puts his hand through the hole to unbolt the door and let himself in. She questions and tries to understand what the king is doing outside her door. He is bidding her to come outside the safety of the room in the palace and to trust him. As she ponders what to do struggling with her thoughts, she is stirred deep within, and knows that she needs to go to him with complete abandonment. Something inside this peasant girl has changed. She is sensing a deep inner longing to do something but she is unsure how or what. The compassion for her beloved starts to move her into action.

There are many words in this verse that add such deep meaning as we look closer at the translation.

In Hebrew, the word used for hand in this poem (3027) is yawd and means an open hand that indicates power, meaning direction just the opposite of a closed hand. We see the bridegroom is reaching to his bride, making himself available and within easy reach. The king is ready to comfort with love and direction.

The term for hole is the same form used when Isaiah speaks of the day when a nursing child will play at the hole of a cobra's den and not be harmed. A place that may seem dangerous but is made safe by God's presence.

According to the Greek way of thinking the bowels are the place where powerful and strong emotions originated. This is the place where deep compassion or pity came from within a person. The word for bowels is translated from (4578)may-aw', it is only used once in this poem, it means to be soft, the abdomen, sympathy, heart.

We may use the word spirit, soul or gut when expressing something that tugs at us deep inside. This tugging causes us to go into action, not just think about the situation.

The next Hebrew word that is found in this verse that has a deeper meaning than our English translation but is moved,(1993)haw-maw', it means to make a loud sound like “hum”, to be in great commotion or tumult, moan, cry aloud, be moved, be troubled.

Looking at the bride's words we can see this expression goes deep with in the bride on many levels causing her to change from her very core, not only how she thinks but how she is going to respond.

Jesus is the door! “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture” (John 10:9). Jesus is our gate, our entrance to knowing God, for receiving perspective and peace, forgiveness of sins, and direction for our personal destiny. Knowing Him and having a relationship with Him intimately and personally, not just knowing or reading some things about Him is the key to holiness and understanding God.

We learn that even when Jesus was weary he looked past His own needs, “But when He saw the multitudes He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). “ And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick” (Matthew 14:14).

Paul tells us “Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any comfort of love, it any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:1-4).

Have you noticed a deep inner stirring within you that causes you to desire to bring others to Christ? Has Jesus called you to step out of your comfort zone? Have you stepped out or retreated back into the (warm bed) same old routine? What is one thing you can do today to step out? Do it! How can you esteem someone better than yourself? Create a list of things you can do that are a bit uncomfortable for you but would be a way of putting others interests ahead of yours.

Day 64 ~Are Your Feet Dirty?

2011-03-05T01:44:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman)

I have put off my coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them? (The Song of Solomon 5:3).

The bride is still half asleep, hears his voice and knock but can not find it within herself to get up out of bed. She has exchanged her working peasant garments, for the royal clothes that he has provided her. Earlier she acknowledged that she was ready to follow him anywhere. The time has arrived for her to give up some of her luxuries and she is struggling. This woman is enjoying all the blessings in her life and she really doesn't want to give them up. She lives in his palace, eats at his table, sleeps in a bed he provides. She knows that she does not want to go back to the place where she came from, into the world and get dirty again. The woman is bit confused and struggling because the wants her to put action to her words and leave all the comfort of the palace. She really does not want to suffer in the cold of the outdoors or have things change. She offers frivolous excuse to cover her concerns. How could she possibly go outside without getting dirty.

This woman really needs some clarification to help her understand what he really wants. Is she to leave this comfortable place? Would the one that loves her so deeply allow her to suffer, feel cold and possibly pain? This is not fitting into her definition of love. She would rather serve him from a warm comfortable place and stay away from the world, then she would not get dirty again.

The son of God was able to balance the ability to walk in the world with others and yet not allow himself to get defiled. “Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper and laid aside His garments, took a towel and girded Himself. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded” (John 13:3-5). Jesus explained to Peter that if his feet were clean than he was completely clean. He also did this as an example to us so we will wash others feet, setting aside our earthly garments of pride, selfishness and greed.

The word washed is (7364) raw-khats' in Hebrew and it means to lave, wash, bathe self or wash self. It is difficult for a person that is physically dirty to wash someone else with out smearing dirt from themselves to another, they must first wash themselves before they can wash another.

Isaiah explained how to truly show God we are serious about becoming holy and doing what He says. “Is this not the fast that I have chosen: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, to let the oppressed go free, and that you break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; when you see the naked that you cover him, and not hide yourself from your own flesh?” (Isaiah 58:6-7).

Doing these things shows that we have taken on the mind of Christ and are acting like Him. There is a way to help others in this world without allowing them to defile and dirty us. This is a hard concept to understand but Jesus put it this way “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you” (John 15:18-19).

It is time to love those of the world like Christ does, helping the poor, feeding the hungry, telling others the truth of what Jesus has done so they can be free. When we do these things we should expect others to speak unkindly of us without justification. That should not stop you from continuing to do God's work. Do you know how you can do some of these things in your own neighborhood? With your own family members? Are there people you know who are ministering to the needy? How can you support them? Are you helping those of this world to find Jesus? Are you sitting pretty comfy in the blessings He has given you? There is nothing wrong with enjoying the delightful gifts God has given , but we must be ready and willing to share them.

Day 63 ~ Are You Sleeping or Resting?

2011-03-04T01:43:00.000-08:00

Day 63

(The Shulamite Woman)

I sleep, but my heart waketh; it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled; for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night (The Song of Solomon 5:2).

We do not know how much time has passed but the woman speaks with melancholy of her beloved. The king seems to have withdrawn again. Maybe she has indulged herself to the point of being carelessly at ease. Yet she has come to a place and entered a rest that has removed any burdens that she may have carried n the past. Her conscience or soul is spiritually alert and hears his voice of love. He gently calls her by the most endearing titles and expresses his affections for her. He does not attack her for sleeping but sweetly asks her not to deny him entrance so he need not stay out in the rainy night.

The word used for the knocking that she hears is the word (1849) daw-fak' in Hebrew and means to knock, press severely, beat, overdrive. This is going on deep within her heart.

The Hebrew word for undefiled is (8535) tawm and means complete; usually pious, gentle, dear, coupled together, perfect, plain, upright. The woman is not perfect in her own strength but in obeying him she becomes more complete. Deep within she understands that he trusts her and knows that she will only follow him. The bride acknowledges that his passion burns only for her. She also realizes that he wants her to trust his love and go deeper even if circumstances and things happen to her she may not understand. This groom is preparing his bride to embrace everything he has, which he knows will include suffering. He reminds her that she will always be a part of him, that he loves her extravagantly and wants her to remain focused on him alone. He wants to see that she is committed to doing the correct thing even if it means things are difficult.

God led His bride out into the desert, an uncomfortable place, not for punishment but for privacy. “Therefore, behold, I will allure her, will bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfort to her” (Hosea 2:14).

The wise virgins rested outside they were not in beds, but in a spot that was not physically very comfortable. The disciples while Jesus struggled in the garden fell asleep on the ground not having the comfort of a tent, bed or pillow.

There is a wealth of knowledge for the bride of Christ to glean in this passage. Just as the king comforted the woman, Jesus is saying this to us His bride, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).

As we come to him we need to let go of our burdens and then, he will give us a rest that satisfies. This peacefulness does not cause us to go into a sleep, it is a type of resting or waiting that is an internal stillness, it causes us to live in a way that shows that we know He will be returning soon.

We are reminded “Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober (self-controlled)” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Be as the wise virgins who had oil in their lamps waiting for the bridegroom to return, they rested but stayed alert ready to move at a moments notice.

Jesus is calling His bride, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me” (in Revelation 3:20). He also said, “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand” (John 10:27-28).

We learn from James that a “Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world” (James 1:27).

We must remember the night that Jesus spent in the garden exceedingly sorrowful, sweating tears of blood and remembering His covenant with God. As He struggled with the decision to allow God's will in His life, His disciples fell asleep. He choose to trust God that all the pain would be worth the gain. (Matthew 26:38-42 and Luke 22:41-46)

AS we look at the world and it's system we can see that it does not work. We must keep our eyes off the world and look to Jesus. This is the only way to know He is trustworthy, no matter what we are walking through.

Jesus has already removed the spots but we need to do what he says. We need to bridle our tongue, visit orphans and widows as a start. Hopefully we have already been working on the tongue part. Have you considered helping widows or orphans in your community? This is how you become a “doer of the word”. What steps can you take today to visit someone who is lonely? If you can't go visiting today at least set up a date on your calendar to do so. I challenge you to take time that you may be spending in the world, maybe watching television, the news or computer time and use that time for at least one week to walk in “pure and undefiled religion”.

Day 62 ~ Are You Satiated?

2011-03-03T01:41:00.000-08:00

(The Bridegroom Responds)

I am come into my garden, my sister, my spouse: I have gathered my myrrh with my spice; I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey; I have drunk my wine with my milk; eat, O friends; drink, yea, drink abundantly, O beloved (The Song of Solomon 5:1).

The king proclaims to the bride that their relationship has arrived at a place where he knows that she is fully committed to him. She has turned over everything she is to him, she has matured and he wants to celebrate. This banquet not only includes the fruits spoken of earlier but honey, milk and wine also. There are in his private garden feasting on the fullness of riches together. Only a wealthy king and his entourage understand these kind of feasts, bigger than any holiday dinner we have ever participated in. She is now a part of the banquet celebration, he willingly allows her access to all he has, since she has given him all she is. Their friends and relatives join in the celebration of their love.

The honey eaten with the honeycomb not only refers to the food made by bees it can also refer to her words or just the sweetness of their relationship and love. Psalm 119:103 “How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psalm 119:103).

Jesus shared and enjoyed honey with the disciples after His resurrection. “So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb. And He took it and ate in their presence” (Luke 24:42-43).

This is the only time the Hebrew word translated as gathered (717) is used in this love poem it is aw-raw' and means to pluck or gather. Fruit is plucked from the vine or tree as it is being gathered to share with others.

Multitudes of people gathered to Jesus often when He walked on this earth. He longed to gather Jerusalem to Himself as a hen protects her chicks under her wing (Matthew 23:37) but they would not let Him. We the bride are being called like Jerusalem to gather under His wings. It is our choice to join Him or not. If we do he calls us His friend, “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you” (John 15:14).

When we do what He tells us to and give Him glory we are promised that we are “able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think according to the power (of Jesus) that works in us” (Ephesians 3:20).

A Psalmist put it this way, “How precious is Your loving kindness O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, and You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures. For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light we see light” (Psalm 36:7-9).

This is the only time the word abundantly (7937) shaw-kar' is used in this love song. It means; to become tipsy, in a qualified sense, to satiate with a stimulating drink or figuratively influence, (be filled with) drink (abundantly) be merry.

This speaks volumes of how we are to drink in the Holy Spirit and be totally changed, and infused with His personal presence. Every part of our life influenced and different than how we would do things our own way. When we live this way it provides a feast for Jesus, pleases Him and gives Him a joy that He reflects back to us.

Are you sitting under His wings? Are you banqueting on His word? Are you going into the garden and enjoying Jesus? Have you allowed Him to be infused in every part of your life. I hope by this point, where we are passed the halfway point of this devotional that you have reached a place where His presence has overwhelmed you many times. Are you seeing many changes that are coming from the inside and manifesting on the outside. Continue to add things to your gratitude list in your journal.

Day 61 ~ Do You Allow The Wind to Blow

2011-03-02T01:39:00.000-08:00

(The Shulamite Woman)

Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits (The Song of Solomon 4:16).

The woman is telling the king that she is ready to do whatever is necessary to be his queen. She understands that he wants her to be all that she can be and she is willing submit to his plans. Trusting and believing in him is her highest goal. Reaching a point of confidence where she can fully trust him. This woman is sure that her groom will only allow the things in her life that are for her good. She has released “her” ministry to him, she has reached a point where she can truly put his needs and purposes above hers and minister to others his way. This lovely bride also wants her husband to completely enjoy all she has to offer.

The north wind brings the rain and can be seen as conviction that shows where changes need to be made. The south wind brings, warmth and comfort. When she submits to the wind she is saying that God can do whatever is necessary to deplete her flesh of any control in her life, submitting complete control to Him.

The word awake is (5782)oor in Hebrew and translates; to lift up, raise, opening of the eyes, stir up. This bride is up and awake, ready to leave the cushy lifestyle of living in the palace. She is paying attention to all that needs to be done.

The particular word used for wind in this verse is (7307)roo'-akh in Hebrew. This is the only time the word wind is used in this poem. It can mean wind like we know it but can also mean, by resemblance, breath, to smell, anticipate, enjoy, make of quick understanding.

The wind is mentioned in the New Testament often. Jesus said this to Nicodemus “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, You must be born again. The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit” (John 3:6-8).

When the Holy Spirit rushed into the room this is how it was described, “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting” (Acts 2:2).

Blow is (6315)poo'akh and means blow with the breath or air, fan kindle.

We learn that “All flesh is grass, and all its loveliness is like the flower of the field. The grass withers, the flower fades, because the breath of the Lord blows upon it; surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:6-8).

The woman trusts her king even if it hurts and feels like she may wither and die. She knows that by suffering through the death of the flesh a pleasant scent of spices will be emitted. Flowers do fade and die but spices retain their scent and flavor for much longer.

“For I know that in me (that is in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find” (Romans 7:18).

“But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His. And if Christ is in you, the body is dead because of sin, but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you” (Romans 8:9-11).

Dear one have you invited His wind, His Spirit to blow in your life? Ask Him to blow off the chaff or parts that are worthless and unneeded? Have your eyes been opened to the needs around you? Awake and allow His wind to kindle the flame of love to lose less fortunate than you. Go out and bless others.

Day 60 ~ What Water are You In?

2011-03-01T01:31:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon (The Song of Solomon 4:15).

The king tells his lovely bride once again how refreshing and wonderful she is. He gazes at the beauty deep within her. Echoing some of the words he had used earlier and adding even more. As he searches to describe something more beautiful than words he compares her to three common ways that the essential resource of water was found. If there as no water available there could not be life.

Fountains in Solomon's day were set apart in a secret place and were not used by the general public. Usually some type of covering was created to keep it private and only those who knew the owner and secret entrance were allowed to use it.

The bride keeps herself refreshed by spending time in the secret place abiding in him.

Wells were more common and were often shared by a community or family. The word living that is used here is (2416) adj; living, alive, green (of vegetation), flowing, fresh (of water), lively, active (of man), reviving (of the springtime), relatives, life (abstract emphatic), life, sustenance, maintenance, living thing, animal, revival, renewal, community. The bridegroom acknowledges that his bride has living water within.

Jesus explained this type of living water to the Samaritan woman, it is a water that brings everlasting life not just to the person but to all those it is shared with.

When a beautiful young virgin lady named Rebekah went to the well to fill her pitcher with water in Genesis 24:16- 67 she met a stranger and willingly watered his camels, when he asked her to. She did not know that her willingness to help and share this water, was a sign from God that she was to become the bride of Abraham's son. The stranger quickly gave her jewelry, a very costly nose ring and two bracelets. Her willingness to be a servant brought forth a relationship filled with love. This connection also placed her in Jesus' long line of descendants.

Next the king speaks of the pure, clean, bubbling streams from Lebanon. Stream is(5140)lzn in Hebrew and is translated; to flow, distil, flow forth or down, trickle, drop, to flow streams, floods.

This particular stream mentioned had its source in the mountains in which it flowed down bringing crystal clear, cool, refreshing water to many. Like the river of living water that flows from heaven, through us and out to others it flowed abundantly. “There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the dwelling places of the Most High. God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved; God shall help her, just at the break of dawn” (Psalm 46:4).

Jesus was baptized in a river, “It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, 'You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased'” (Mark 1:9-11). One of the few times all three beings of the Trinity are witnessed separately.

Paul tells us “Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin. For he who has died has been freed from sin” (Romans 6:3-7).

What type of water do you see yourself at today? Are you spending time in the secret garden of God where you are getting refreshed by Him? Are you drawing water out of the deep well of His word and sharing it with others? Are you totally immersed in the river of His love? Can you imagine yourself swimming in the River of Life that flows in heaven?

Day 59~ Did You Know You Died?

2011-02-28T01:27:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

Spikenard and saffron; calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense; myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices: (The Song of Solomon 4:14).

The king, a great botanist continues to acknowledge his approval of his bride, by naming some of the most valuable trade items of the day. The spices listed were possibly his favorites, they did not grow there by chance but were purposely planted and propagated to create the best of each species. These fragrant plants were used as trade commodities just as money is today. The king's bride is worth more than the entire world and everything in it, to him.

Only high quality costly spices were used in the Holy Anointing oil in Exodus 30:23 and as trade items from the Queen of Sheba (2 Chronicles 9:9 and 1 Kings 10:10).

In the New Testament we read when aloe was mixed with myrrh, “And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury” (John 19:39-40).

The very next time spices were mentioned in the New Testament was “Now when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, that they might come and anoint Him” (Mark 16:1). They thought they were going to finish the customary burial process of His body.

Do you realize what happened between those three days of using these spices? Jesus went to the grave and abolished death. “For he who has died has been freed from sin. Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, dies no more. Death no longer has dominion over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Likewise you also, reckon yourselves to be dead indeed to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus our Lord”(Romans 6:7-11).

He died and conquered death, hell and the grave. The stone had been rolled away not for His escape but so so they could witness that He had indeed risen. (Matthew 28:12)

You are worth so much more than earthly things. Your worth is not from anything you have done but from the price that Christ paid for you. “For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's” (1 Corinthians 6:20).

Spend time thinking of the price He paid and how much you are worth to Him. Find some spices (incense, candles, tea, cider, flavored coffee) that are pleasant to you and enjoy the fragrance they diffuse. As you savor the scent realize that Jesus enjoys you extravagantly more than any earthly thing.

Day 58 ~ Are You Fruity?

2011-02-27T01:46:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

Thy plants are an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire, with spikenard (The Song of Solomon 4:13).

The king continues to lavish his bride with praises. When he speaks of her plants the word used is (7973)sheh'-lakh and it is the only time this word is used in this love song. It means a shoot or growth, a branch. He is complimenting her on the fruitful, growing, ministry that she has. The fact that she is bearing much fruit not only pleases the king but God also.

The word pleasant is (4022)meh'-ghed in Hebrew and means to be eminent; a distinguished thing; hence something valuable, as a product or fruit, pleasant, precious fruit. These are not any ordinary fruit but the kind that is very precious and valuable to each person that experiences them.

Jesus had some things to say about fruit; “Therefore by their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7:20). “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples” (John 15:7-8).

It is obvious that the bride is bearing good fruit and the king is letting her know that he sees all the delightful choices she is making, such as helping others, offering praises to God, treating others kindly

What does it look like to bear fruit? Here is one example found in the bible “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise” (Proverbs 11:30).

Telling others about Jesus and all He has done for you, is one way. Inviting others to join the kingdom is another. “Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name” (Hebrews13:15).

Making sure our words give praise and thanks to God is a great way to bear fruit. We are not limited to just a few ways, there are many ways, just as there are many fruits.

Someday we will get to see some fruit that is different from any we know here on earth. According to the last book of the Bible, “In the middle of the street, and on either side of the river, was the tree of life, which bore twelve fruits, each tree yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations”(Revelation 22:2).

Remember that (camphire) henna symbolizes forgiveness and reminds us of the blood of Jesus. Spikenard represents extravagant worship. Knowing this, what fruits can you see God developing in you? Are there areas you need to submit to Him for some pruning so that you can bear even more fruit? If you do not think you have much fruit in your life start adding more to you life right now by giving thanks and praise extravagantly. Look into the word to identify more fruit.

Day 57 ~ Time in the Garden

2011-02-26T01:41:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

A garden enclosed is my sister, my spouse; a spring shut up, a fountain sealed (The Song of Solomon 4:12).

The beloved king is telling his delightful wife how uniquely precious she is to him. Promising to keep her protected and consecrated for him alone. Together they are united in reverence for God, knowing that the King of Kings is the source of the fountain of life.

This is the very first time that this particular Hebrew word for garden (1588)gan,is mentioned in this song. It will be cited five more times within this beautiful poem of love. The primitive root word (1598)gaw-nan' means to hedge about, protect and defend.

The Hebrew word for enclosed is (5274)naw-al' and it conveys a similar definition of protection as it means to inclose, to fasten up with a bar or cord, to sandal, furnish with slippers.

Kings gardens were created purely for enjoyment and as a private getaway place. King Solomon proclaimed this, “I made myself gardens and orchards, and I planted all kinds of fruit trees in them. I made myself water pools from which to water the growing trees of the grove” ( Ecclesiastes 2:5-6).

God planted a garden in Genesis 2:8-9 where he met with Adam and Eve for intimate fellowship.

This is what happened in King Ahauerus's garden, “Then the king arose in his wrath from the banquet of wine and went into the palace garden” (Ester 7:7 ). In this case the king used the garden as a place to go think and compose himself after learning what had happened. He had sealed a decree with his signet ring that would have his wife Ester and her kinsmen killed. After thinking in the private garden he eventually figured out how to change things around and had Ester and her people create a new decree. “You yourselves write a decree concerning the Jews, as you please, in the kings name, and seal it with the king's signet ring; for whatever is written in the kings name and sealed with the kings signet ring no one can revoke” (Ester 8:8). “ And he wrote in the name of King Ahasuerus, sealed it with the king's signet ring, and sent letters to couriers on horseback, riding on royal horses bred from swift steeds. By these letters the king permitted the Jews who were in every city to gather together and protect their lives-to destroy, kill and annihilate all the forces of any people or province that would assault them, both children and women, and to plunder their possessions” (Ester 8:10-11).

The seal of a king was a very serious and important part of history. A one of a kind signet ring was used to seal in wax any law or degree he created. Usually no one but the king could sign a document with his ring.

In 1 Corinthians 1:21-22 we learn that “Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given in out hearts as a guarantee.” The Lord has sealed our hearts with his private signature ring.

Sources of water were sometimes shared and often had to be protected within kingdoms so that enemies would not pollute them. In the New Testament we see that Jesus told the woman at the well “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

We are also promised “for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them and lead them to living fountains of waters. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 7:17).

Have you found the secret garden of God? Have you come to the never ending fountain and tasted of the waters of everlasting life? He bids you to spend time alone so He can refresh you with His refreshing water. Envision your favorite beverage, your special flavor and the most delightful fragrance you know. Now imagine how much more satisfying Christ is than all of those put together. Thank Him for His everlasting water.

Day 56 ~ Do You Have Your Garment On?

2011-02-25T01:40:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

Thy lips, O my spouse, drop as the honeycomb: honey and milk are under thy tongue; and the smell of thy garments is like the smell of Lebanon (The Song of Solomon 4:11).

The beloved king tells his bride how lovely her lips are. This enamored groom is calling attention to her words and how pleasant they are to him and to all that hear what this lovely woman has to say. Although in most cultures milk is considered for babies and honey a delicacy for adults, both are mentioned here as something to share with others.

Milk and honey are used together in the Bible to represent God's provision of daily sustenance. This term was used in the description of the promised land. The Hebrew word for milk comes from the word (4612) mah-am-awd' and does not translate as milk as we know it but as positions, attendance, office, place, state.

The sweet tasty treat created by bees that we know as honey is still the same today as it was in Solomon's day. The Hebrew word for honey is (1706) deb-ash' and is used to describe pleasantness of taste and words.

Delightful words and honey go together throughout the bible. “How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth” (Psalm 119:103). “Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones” ( Proverbs 16:24). “The fear of the LORD is clean enduring forever the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea than much fine gold' sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb” (Psalm 19:9-10).

We are encouraged as believers to “...desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2). It is known that milk gives nourishment and aids in growth to anyone who drinks it.

As the king reinforces the importance of her words he may have been referring to the thoughts he is accredited of penning. “A man's stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; from the produce of his lips he shall be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverb 18:20-21). The fruit coming from her mouth is satisfying not only to this woman but to her husband also.

The sense of smell and different scents are mentioned often in this love song but this is the only time the smell of garments is mentioned. It translates from the Hebrew word (8008)sal-maw' and it means a dress, clothing, garment, raiment. The primitive root word that it comes from is (8071)sim-law' which gives a word picture of a cover that assumes the shape of the object beneath.

The transformation that the groom sees in his bride that is visible on the outside is because of the changes that are going on internally.

There are different kinds of clothing from God that we can wear, such as His righteousness and salvation. “I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels” (Isaiah 61:10).

This verse makes it clear that the bride is wearing the specially created scented garment that the king has given her.

Jesus is preparing a gorgeous white wedding garment for each of us who are willing to stand with Him. “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels” (Revelation 3:5),

Christ has given each of us a garment that He has specifically created for each individual. Salvation and righteousness are our gift from Him, they are our clothing to wear to the feast He has prepared for us. Are you aware of your garment, do you know if you have it on? Do you ever cast it off? It is a very costly gift that you should wear at all times as we do not know the time Jesus will return for us. Ask Jesus to help you become more aware of how to walk in the salvation and righteousness He purchased for you. If you find yourself talking negatively about yourself see that as casting off your garment. Stop! Pick it up and put it back on and repeat Isaiah 61:10! Write it down and carry it with you, post it on your mirror, put it in places you will see it often and be reminded to keep your robe on.

Day 55 ~ Are You Ready to Give?

2011-02-24T01:40:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

How fair is thy love, my sister, my spouse! How much better is thy love than wine! And the smell of thine ointments than all spices! (The Song of Solomon 4:10).

The beloved king again pronounces his bride as sister and spouse exclaiming how precious she is to him. Her love is cherished, as are the fruits and products she produces. Others can tell she has been with the king by the fragrance she sends forth.

This couple now lives in permanent oneness with enduring mutuality. Earlier the bride announced that the king's love was better than wine now it is the groom echoing those words to her. This woman fills his senses with a wonderful scent. She has sacrificed and offered herself to only him and he respects and adores her for that.

The flavorful products mentioned, wine, oil, ointments (8081)sheh'-men and spices (1314)sheh'-men all are made from crushed fruit or plants. Many are expensive and were used as trade items between royalty. None of them can become all that they were meant to be without the process of pressure being applied.

In 1 Kings 10 we read that after the queen of Sheba spent time with King Solomon, testing to see if he was as wonderful as she had heard. She found out all the rumors were true and even more so, he was the wisest and wealthiest man on earth. This queen was so enamored with what she found that she gave him a multitude of gifts “Then she gave the king one hundred and twenty talents of gold, spices in great quantity, and precious stones. There never again came such abundance of spices as the queen of Sheba gave to King Solomon”(1 Kings 10:10).

Ointments that are made with spices and oils were used to consecrate people and things to make them holy throughout the Bible.

In Exodus 30:22-38 God gave Moses a very specific recipe for the anointing oil and sweet incense. This oil was only used in the Holy of Hollies, the place where God met with man. It could only be placed on a priest to anoint them in a very precise manner. The oil could not touch the skin or anyone who was not purified. These holy sessions were compared to people getting along and living in harmony.

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard , the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments” (Psalm 133:1-2).

The king is acknowledging that deep desire within all mankind to experience a oneness of authentic love within a dependable relationship with God and man.

Jesus quoted Isaiah 61:1 “The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD” (Luke 4:18).

What gifts do you have to offer up to the King today? In what areas are you “anointed”? What do you have that you can give to others in His name? Go into your closet and pick out something to give away. How about your kitchen are there things in the cupboards that someone else could use?

Day 54 ~Have You Ravished a Heart?

2011-02-23T01:39:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

Thou has ravished my heart, my sister, my spouse thou hast ravished my heart with one of thine eyes, with one chain of they neck (The Song of Solomon 4:9).

The beloved bridegroom continues his love song to his beautiful bride. The king wants his queen to know that she has transported his heart and their love goes down to the very core of his being. This woman has transformed his life as she encourages him with love. Just one little glance from her eyes and his heart beats faster, it tickles him to know that she is looking at him with her bashful, humble eyes. The necklace she wears, a token that displays how dear he is to her.

The words ravished and heart come from the same Hebrew word (3823)law-bab' which means to ravish, become intelligent, get a mind, encourage, enheartened, make the heart beat faster, transport with love. The primitive root word that it comes from is (3824)lay-bawb' and it translates as; inner man, will, soul, the heart, most interior organ, breast, understanding, courage, tender.

When the king uses the term sister he uses the Hebrew word (269)aw-khoth' it has a wide variety of meanings it translates to sister and means together. The primitive root word that sister comes from is (251)awkh and means relationship, kindred, like, other. This is very similar to what Christ was talking about in Matthew 12:50 when he stated; “For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister, and mother.” We are of kindred spirit with Christ when we do our Father's will.

Proverbs 7:4 reminds us to “Say to wisdom, 'you are my sister,' and call understanding your nearest kin.”

The bridegroom poetically repeats that this woman is his perfect bride and has carried away his heart.

As she gazes upon their love, favor grows and she begins to resemble him. We are reminded; “The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes” (Psalm 19:8). She is looking at his commandments, obeying them and being purified and this touches his heart.

The necklace she is wearing shows where her loyalty is that she yields to him in total obedience.

It is still a part of our culture to wear jewelry from a loved one. We understand what it means to holding them close in our thoughts because most of us have jewelry that was given to us as a token of love from someone.

Joseph wore a chain to show he belonged to Pharaoh (Genesis 41:42) and Daniel wore a chain that proclaimed him ruler of the kingdom. (5:29)

God told Israel to loose the bonds that were around her neck so He could redeem her. (Isaiah 52:2) Israel had to choose to be bound to traditions or to God.

“For the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a virgin, so shall your sons marry you; and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:5). God rejoices over you just like the king is rejoicing over his bride.

We are not just in a marriage relationship with Jesus, we also have a deep kindred relationship like siblings do with Him. He made us his siblings when he calls Himself our brother. “For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying 'I will declare Your name to My brethren; in the midst of the assembly I will sing praise to you'” (Hebrews 2:11-12).

We learn that the person who shuns evil counsel and listens to their parents instructions wears this information like jewelry. “For they (parent's instructions) will be a graceful ornament on your head, and chains about your neck” (Proverb 1:9). Something held dearly close to make you look nicer and keep you safe.

Did you know that the Lord delights in you dear child? He sees you as his, sister, brother and lovely bride, you make Him smile. Not because you are perfect but because you submit to His love and keep your eye on Him. Can you name some ornaments that He has given you? (Positive attitude, wisdom, honesty, to get you started) Write them in your journal. Look in Proverbs if you need more ideas.

Day 53 ~ Are You On Top?

2011-02-22T01:38:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

Come with me from Lebanon, my spouse, with me from Lebanon; look from the top of Amana from the top of Shenir and Hermon, from the lions' dens, from the mountains of the leopards (Song of Solomon 4:8).

The king continues to show great esteem and affection toward his bride and her excellency. This is the very first time he calls her “my spouse”, in Hebrew the word spouse is (3618)kal-law' and means a bride, as one who is made perfect from the primitive root word (3634)kaw-lal' adding the meaning, to complete.

He is a tender, kind, gentle and loving husband who provides all she needs.

The woman is maturing, ready to join him in traveling to places that may not be as pleasant as the cushy lifestyle within the palace. These higher place only obtained by climbing upward on a journey that may not be easy, places where leopards and lions will most likely be present. He is asking her if she is willing to climb to the top of the mountains, along a dangerous path. This journey will give her a different perspective, one that will change her, transform her more like him. This loving king gently reminds her that on this journey up the mountain there most likely will be difficulties but he will be right along side her all the way.

The country of Lebanon (3844)leb-aw-nohn' is mentioned often throughout the Old Testament. It means whiteness and is a wooded mountain range north of Israel.

After Israel was wondering the desert for forty years disobeying God with much rebellion, God gave Moses the ten commandments. God promised to love and reward those who were obedient and lived by these commandments. God had Moses speak this promise to those who would continue to love and obey God, “Every place on which the sole of your foot treads shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the River Euphrates, even to the Mediterranean Sea, shall be your territory”(Deuteronomy 11:24). Note that this area included Lebanon.

Lebanon is mentioned for its cedar, fragrant flowers and glory. Mount Amana is mentioned only this one time in the Bible. Shenir and Hermon are two names for the same mount, this is the same one Jesus was transfigured on.

“Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James and John, and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them” (Mark 9:2-3).

In Jeremiah 5 we read about the sins of those in Jerusalem. God promised pardon to anyone who would choose to execute judgment and seek His truth. The people continued to swear falsely, refused correction and acted foolishly. It did not take long for God to send judgment, He used a lion and a leopard from the forest to come and slay the obstinate people and tear them to pieces for their many transgressions and backsliding.

The groom-king is letting his bride know that he provides her safety, as long she stays close to him. He is also allowing her the freedom to leave his tender care by arming her with information that there are many dangers out there if she chooses to go it without him.

For those who will go to the hills and keep God's ways He promises this; “I will lift up my eyes to the hills- from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper (protector); The Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve (guard) you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore” (Psalm 121).

God warns us of the importance of staying away from the dangerous temptations of this world and close to His loving protection but He leaves the choice to us.

Satan is the adversary walking about like a roaring lion seeking to devour you but the the answer on how to stop him is found in the word, “Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you” (1 Peter 5:9-10).

What a wonderful promise we have. We must look beyond the hills of what we can see to things we can not see. He does not say we won't suffer, matter of fact as we climb up the mountain in this journey of life we are sure to suffer but as we focus on Christ we realize that it is His way of perfecting and strengthening us. So in what area are you suffering right now? Write them down on a piece of paper and hand them to Jesus to carry. Ask God to show you how it is making you more like Him. Will you climb up to the summit with Him?

Day 52 ~ Are You Studying Your Groom?

2011-02-21T01:37:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot in thee (The Song of Solomon 4:7).

In this song he calls her fair thirteen times but this is the first time he used the term “all fair”. All is (3605)kole and means the whole, hence all, enough, every.

Everything he sees about her is beautiful and lovely. He does not see any spots (3971) moom, not even a blemish or stain. He only sees her pure heart that has been purified by his love. She is altogether new, a new face, a new name, a new nature are all hers now.

In 2 Peter 3:13-15 we learn “ Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells. Therefore, beloved, looking forward to these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless; and consider that the long suffering of our Lord is salvation...”

“For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from the dead works to serve the living God?” (Hebrews 9:13-14).

So how do we become the bride that Christ is looking for without spot or wrinkle? We need to get our focus on the wedding to come by studying our groom (The Word) and getting to know him so deeply that He purifies our heart from the inside out.

“And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, and blameless, and above reproach in His sight- if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven...” (Colossians 1:21-23).

Can you see His blood pouring into you and washing away your sins. Picture a shower pouring out blood on you, but it is not just washing your skin, it is penetrating deep into you like water enters a sponge. Let is cleanse every single bit of the past away. You are a new creature He sees you without a single sin. Your sins were removed at the cross over 2000 years ago, let them go. Praise Him for cleansing you and making you blemish free.

Look at how you are spending each minute of your day. Are you becoming more aware of Jesus throughout your whole day, not just at times when you can sit in silence. How much of your day is focused on Jesus? Are you getting to know Him better. What adjustments do you need to make to see change? This journey is an ongoing process, there is no arrival point just a closer walk with Jesus.

Day 51 ~How High Will You Climb?

2011-02-20T01:37:00.000-08:00

(The Bride responds)

Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of frankincense (The Song of Solomon 4:6).

Some translators believe that the groom is still speaking here and giving warning to the woman. Others say it is the bride responding. Whomever is speaking a promise is being made that they will keep their focus on each other. Adam and Eve are an example of this same kind of relationship when they walked with God before the fall, in the “cool of the day”.

These lovers are proclaiming that the shadows of the past will flee in the light of their love. The mountain signifies Mount Moriah where the temple was built and God was honored daily with incense.

The bride knows the road up the mountain will be hard and filled with bitter myrrh or long suffering as she climbs from her comfort zone nearer to him. She has reached the point where she knows deep within her heart that she is ready to give everything to his will. Being the king's bride will not only have bitter times but that there will be sweet times of frankincense or deep joy and peace in their relationship.

The Hebrew word for hill is(1389 ghib-aw', and it means just that a small hill, one that is obviously smaller than a mountain. The word for mountain is (2022) har, this word can mean just one mountain or a range of mountains. The mountains represent her life journey. The “hill of frankincense” symbolizes sweetness and her prayer life.

David, Solomon's father asked “Let my prayer be set before You as incense, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:2-3).

David is asking God to help him submit every part of his being to God's will.

In the New Testament we get a word picture of what prayers look like to God, “.. the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints” (Revelation 5:8b).

The bride was not ignorant, she realized that stepping into the role as queen would have some wonderful parts and would deepen the relationship between she and the King. It would also bring with it some hard times as they walked into their future together. The same is true when we come into a personal intimate relationship with our Lord Jesus and allow His will to be done. The deep intimate things over ride the temporary sufferings.

“Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all the things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8).

Paul and Barnabus shared the gospel and then said, "strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God"(Acts 14:22).

The bride has come to the place where she was willing to give up every earthly comfort to gain a greater knowledge of her King. Have you come to a point in your walk with Christ? Can you deny the power of anything that takes our eyes off Christ? Instead of looking at what you need to take your eyes off of, keep your focus on knowing Him more deeply. If you find yourself focused on your problems write them town and place them in a box or envelope and when the thought of them pops back into your head say out loud, "I will not carry that burden, my King Jesus is taking care of it."

Day 50 ~ Who are you Nursing?

2011-02-19T01:35:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King) Photo by Pastor Bob Messerli

They two breasts are like two young roes that are twins which feed among the lilies (The Song of Solomon 4:5).

The beloved bridegroom is complementing this lovely lady's ability to nurture others. He paints a picture of two young deer in a field of lilies nursing on their mother. Youth represents purity and innocence as does the color white. Some of us may get a little embarrassed when breasts are mentioned, that is fine as they are a very private part of a woman's body, that should only be shared in intimacy with their spouse or child.

In Hebrew the word for young is (6082) o'-fer meaning a fawn. A young animal that is dependent on its mother for care, safety and food.

There is more in the Bible about breasts, suckling and bosoms than expected. Some scholars translate the term "two breasts" as representing the old and new testament.

The breast section of animals was used in sacrificial offerings.

Job 21:24 says; (God's) “His breasts are full of milk”. Referring to a person who is blessed with good health.

King Solomon wrote of the wisdom of staying faithful in marital love, “As a loving deer and a graceful doe, let her breasts satisfy you at all times; and always be enraptured with her love” (Proverbs 5:19).

God speaks of the relationship with Jerusalem, “That you may feed and be satisfied with the consolation of her bosom, that you may drink deeply and be delighted with the abundance of her glory” (Isaiah 66:11).

What a beautiful picture of intimacy this verse paints. When we see an animal or child nursing we see a great example of pure satisfaction and contentment, the kind God wants us to find in Him.

God gave women the gift of breasts to nurture and nourish her children. He allowed Moses' mother to nurse him after she sent him floating down the river not knowing if she would ever see him again. Naomi was allowed to nurse her grandchild. (Ruth 4:16) Woman were created not only to nurture physical children,but to feed and edify spiritual children as well.

“Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing” (1 Thessalonian 5:11).

We may not naturally know how to edify others but we can hone this skill. We need to decide to get better at it by asking our self some questions. How do I like to be treated? Who can I build up today, who can I share comforting words with? Look for someone to nurture today. I urge you to become aware of the gifts God has imparted into you. Think of the things you enjoy doing, what talents do you have, what do you do well? Now discipline your thought patterns, and make the decision to use what God has given you to give glory to Him. Do you bake well, bake up something and share it with others. Can you write? Do you create art? Offer your talents to the Lord and take that first step today.

Day 49 ~ Where Does Your Strength Come From?

2011-02-18T01:34:00.000-08:00

(The Beloved King)

They neck is like the tower of David builder for an armory, whereon there hang a thousand bucklers, all shields of mighty men (The Song of Solomon 4:4).

This poetic verse doesn't seem very sweet at first but it truly was a compliment. The tower of David, a man made landmark, was visible from afar and helped give protection and direction in Solomon's day. The bridegroom is proclaiming that this woman is stately like a citadel with her commitment and will being only toward God. She is not like the people who disobey God and are considered “stiff-necked”. The bride is willing to take direction from her king, adapting and moving whatever direction he tells her. The woman's strength compares to an extravagantly large storehouse of offensive weapons that protects from enemies.

Bucklers (4043) are maw-gane' in Hebrew, meaning a small shield. We see God's protection symbolized with a shield many times in the Psalms. Here is one example “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold” (Psalm 18:2).

This peasant girl transformed into the bride of the king knows where her strength comes from and it is not within herself but directly from God.

In the New Testament we are told “above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one” (Ephesians 6:16).

As you submit your life to more and more of God's control an inner strength comes that will never be quenched by any circumstance (dart) that comes your way. Do you have inner strength? If not why do you think that is? Are you looking to God to be your strength? Do you understand that it can not be developed in your strength but as you look to Him, He makes you strong. Submit your weaknesses to Him and allow Him to make you strong. Be honest and write out a list of your weaknesses that you want Jesus to turn to strengths and then find some scriptures to go with them. For example if one of your weaknesses is getting offended easily quote this, “And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me”(Matthew 11:6).