In Song of Solomon Chapter 4, the beloved praises the Shulamite woman’s beauty, using rich imagery and metaphors. Their intimate connection is celebrated as he expresses admiration for her physical and inner beauty, highlighting the deep affection and desire between them.
Opening Ourselves Up to God
In Song of Solomon 4:16 (The Voice), the beloved calls out: “Rise, you north wind; come, you south wind. Breathe on my garden, and let the fragrance of its natural spices fill the air.” She responds, “Let my love come into his garden and feast from its choice fruits.” This exchange illustrates her openness and total commitment to her beloved, as noted by Tremper Longman: “The mention of these two winds coming from opposite directions signifies that the woman is opening herself completely and without reservation to the man.”
When the bride welcomes the winds, she metaphorically invites her groom into his garden, symbolising her willingness to give herself entirely. This reflects the depth of her love and commitment, emphasising that she now belongs to him fully.
As Chip Ingram states, “God always has and always will look for men and women who say to Him, ‘I trust you so much, I’m all in. I want your way, not mine. I am willing to live by faith!’” The Bible encourages us to open our hearts to God, reminding us that He is respectful and will not force His presence upon us. We must actively invite Him into our lives.
Romans 12:1-2 (MSG) urges us: “Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering.” This act of surrender is the best way to honour Him. We are reminded not to conform to cultural norms but to fix our attention on God, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out.
James 4:7-10 (MSG) further encourages us: “Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time. Purify your inner life. Hit bottom, and cry your eyes out.” This call to sincerity invites us to humble ourselves before God, as He desires to lift us up.
In the spirit of opening ourselves to God, I conclude with a beloved song by Charles A. Miles:
“I come to the garden alone,
While the dew is still on the roses,
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.
Refrain:
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.”
This song captures the intimate relationship we can have with God, reminding us of the joy and closeness found in His presence. Let us open our hearts, inviting Him into our lives as we walk with Him.