King Solomon was a prolific songwriter. He wrote 1005 songs. (I Kings 4:32) One of these songs in the Bible is so unique that it is often overlooked. It is the Song of Solomon. It is a song unlike any other!
At first reading, some might ask why it was ever included in the Bible. After all, it was never quoted in the New Testament and it does not have any obvious devotional message, but there has never been any doubt about its place in holy canon.
In its eight chapters, we read of a love story between a man and a woman. It can be seen as a manual for the marriage relationship. However, digging deeper, this song is an allegory of the relationship between God and his Church.
Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, is often spoken of as the groom and the Church, his bride (Matthew 25:1, Romans 7:4, Revelation 21:9) Do you see where we are going? This song is a serenade, an intimate love song, and that is what worship is all about.
Almighty God, who has no needs and is quite able to exist without the pains that humanity can bring him, chooses to love. His love for all does not just “put up with” you and me. That’s how he can forgive with blinding speed and completeness. We really need to read this song to capture his indescribable love. It’s the kind of love that values every part of you and me.
To make ourselves look good, we may try to hide our blemishes, but God knows all about us and loves us with the kind of burning fire Solomon expresses. It’s that kind of love that we can’t hide from, but instead draws us to worship. Opening our mouths and our hearts in worship of the Creator is only natural. It happens when someone is truly in a love relationship with the Lover of their soul.
The exchange between the bride and groom is so graphic in this book that the Jews forbade it to be read by anyone younger than thirty. Our worship can be that uninhibited! The Bride of Christ cannot help but speak out about the One who is so wonderful! In worship, we speak of his character and unequalled beauty. We speak of his love for all people and the future joy of being with him forever. With gratitude, we worship.
“My feelings were aroused for him” were the words of the bride (Song of Solomon 5:4) and that is what worship truly is. We appreciate your Comments