Bible Reading: Numbers 9; Psalm 45; Song of Solomon 7; Hebrews 7
I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me. (Song of Solomon 7:10)
The Shulamite declared that she belonged to her beloved. She was his and none other. This is one of the marriage vows that a couple takes when they are joined as husband and wife. They promise faithfulness to each other as long as they live. The key to marital longevity is faithfulness and love. A husband and wife that trust each other can last a life time together.
Not only that, but she knew his desire was toward her. Solomon made it very plain that he loved her and that he desired her. He wanted to be with her and spend time with her. She was pleasing to him and he got excited when they were together. A husband and wife should work to keep this kind of desire in their marriage. One of the ways to do this is laid out her in Solomon and the Shulamite's life. She suggests a weekend get-away.
Come, my beloved, let us go forth into the field; let us lodge in the villages. (Song of Solomon 7:11)
Getting out of the normal work-a-day life and staying in 'the villages' was her suggestion. Do you do that sometimes with your spouse? Do you plan a time that you can be together and stay at a bed and breakfast or something? It does not have to be a long vacation. Just a little time focusing one hundred percent upon each other is good for a relationship. One of the things that they share is a love for nature and being outdoors, so she suggests they get up early and inspect the vineyards and gardens. Not only that, but she has promises him that she will give him her loves.
Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the vine flourish, whether the tender grape appear, and the pomegranates bud forth: there will I give thee my loves. The mandrakes give a smell, and at our gates are all manner of pleasant fruits, new and old, which I have laid up for thee, O my beloved. (Song of Solomon 7:12-13)
She entices Solomon with the promise of 'all manner of pleasant fruits'. Throughout the Song the use of garden and vegetable metaphors is for the purpose of relating to marital intimacy. She says she has some new things for him to try and some old favorites in mind. How could he not be excited about this weekend away with his wife?
Set aside some time to get away with your beloved. Sample the pomegranates and grapes together. Intimacy in marriage is God's idea. He designed you to desire your spouse. Make sure that your spouse can trust you by being faithful and work to create desire in your marriage!
In Christ,
Rody
