1. Rose of Sharon; Lily of the valley (1:1-2:2)

(See note NIV footnote)

This is a love song written by King Solomon. It is a celebration of human love, God's beautiful gift to human beings. It also is an allegory of the love relationship between God and Israel, Christ and his Church. Verses 1-8 reflect the joy that lovers have in being together. Verses 9-2:2 show how love makes the loved one beautiful. Jesus is the Rose of Sharon and the Lily of the valley. His beauty and love surpass all human love and beauty.

2. He has taken me to his banquet hall (2:5-7)

The banquet is a banquet of love. Love is given and accepted freely. The strong passions of love should not be aroused until the time and place are proper and right (Pr 5:15-20). We must have a love relationship with Christ; we must take time to be with him and rejoice in his love.

Application: Lord, thank you for blessing us with the gift of love. Help me to grow in my love relationship with you.
One Word: Jesus' banner over me is love