Today’s Bible Reading: Jeremiah 49, Song of Solomon 3, John 6:1-15, 1 Peter 2:18-25 Song of Solomon 3: Once again, remember that we are interpreting the Song of Solomon through the lens of both human, idyllic, wedded love and also divine love. For discussion on why and how, see the introduction to this book in the first devotional here. In terms of human love, note the longing of love. “I looked for the one my heart loves; I looked for him but did not find him.” Therefore, if you are married, continue to pursue your spouse. Don’t simply take them for granted once you have married them. Pursue them, long for them, look for them, date them, enjoy them. If you haven’t booked time in your schedule recently to go out with your wife or your husband, then consider making time for that this weekend. In terms of human love, note the adoration of love. “Daughters of Jerusalem, come out, and look, you daughters of Zion. Look on King Solomon wearing a crown, the crown with which his mother crowned him.” Therefore, if you are married, spend time in your mind considering the things about your spouse that you love. It is easy to let your mind dwell on the things about your wife or husband that you find annoying or less than perfect or not quite as you had in your dreams. None of us is perfect; we all have things about us that are annoying – especially sometimes to those who know us best. But instead of focusing on those things, focus on that which is adorable about your spouse. In terms of divine love, also note the longing of love. “I looked for the one my heart loves; I looked for him but did not find him.” Therefore, Christian, seek God. We think that once we are a Christian, there is no need for us to seek after God. But consider the Psalms. Psalm 42: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.” Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Long for more intimacy with God. Seek him in prayer and in the Word. In terms of divine love, also note the adoration of love. “Daughters of Jerusalem, come out, and look, you daughters of Zion. Look on King Solomon wearing a crown, the crown with which his mother crowned him.” Therefore, Christian, worship God. Worship God this morning in song, in prayer, and in praise. Sometimes as Christians, we can get “stuck.” Would you spend time this morning adoring God? Would you tell him how holy he is? How glorious he is? How above all comparison he is? How worthy he is of all adoration? Adore your Lord, Christian!]]>