Today's passage describes the wedding day of the Shulamite woman and the king. While the woman was in the country town tending the family vineyard and the flock, she saw a procession of the king. The king brought a beautiful carriage carefully adorned to seat his bride. The king himself wore a crown prepared for his wedding day. Can you imagine what this country maiden would have felt to see that?

Chapter 4 is mostly the song of the king expressing his delight in his beautiful bride at the wedding. The king finds her beautiful and flawless (7). Since the king had possession of anything he ever wanted, the king's affection for a simple woman from a humble background may be surprising. Yet, this reminds us of the Lord's delight over each of us as we humbly seek our refuge in him (Zephaniah 3:17).

In response to the king's affection, the woman invites him into her garden. She has prepared her garden that only the king can enter, which she considers ‘his garden.' Would you receive the love of the Lord and prepare your heart as a place where only he can enter?


Application: Father, thank you for Jesus, my Lord, and the King. I feel secure in his love. Please come into my heart and guide my soul so I may be one with you and share your heart.
One Word: Come into my garden.