King Solomon is remembered throughout the world today for his wisdom, as is noted in 1st Kings 4:29. Solomon had many wives and a harem (allowed by the culture at that time). Yet it seemed that the Lord separated one relationship, found in the Song of Songs (or Song of Solomon), to demonstrate His design in life for a man and a woman, so they can find fulfillment within a relationship.
Solomon was known for his wisdom not only in politics, and leadership, but also as the writer of proverbs and songs. So the Song of Songs should be considered as Godly wisdom with the perfect application for relationships today.
When reading the Song of Songs you’ll quickly see that the book is about the relationship of one woman, the Shulamite and Solomon. The book moves from the inception of romance through marriage (Chapter 1, 2, & 3). Then follows the consummation of the two physically (Chapter 4), and some difficulties experienced within the marriage (Chapter 5 & 6 ). Later, the book demonstrates their moving toward growth and the deepening of their lives (Chapter 7 & 8).
Marriage is discussed forty-four times in the Bible, but the wisdom of how God desires a marriage is fully contained in Solomon’s writings. The problem you may have after looking at the entire history of Solomon is that he did not follow through in doing everything he knew was right in the sight of God.
In Solomn's later years, he allowed power, money, success, and other relationships to turn him away from God and impact his most precious marriage relationship. So ask yourself, “Are you today following that same path?”
Can you recall the events of dating and falling in love with your spouse? Even though you may not refer to your spouse’s beauty as fawns, cedar, pomegranates, and other endearing nature terms, you may recall words in songs like, “lips as sweet as honey”, “eyes as blue as the sky”, or “sunshine of my life”. These words or thoughts from cards and songs applied to how you felt about your loved one.
Just as Solomon loved this woman so much and yet allowed problems to enter the relationship, are you finding a struggle in your relationship due to issues of power, money, success, or unhealthy friendships?
The phrase, “Just a Little Bit More Freedom” should never replace the three stranded cord of marriage. God, you and your wife or husband have to remain strong and United in order for that phrase not to overtake you. Now is the time to place your spouse above those things that the world says are so important.
Take some quiet time to read the Song of Solomon. In doing that you will see God’s plan for marriage fulfilled in two people. A study of the book can reveal what strength you can draw upon through your marriage. The New American Standard Bible gives you one of the best translations for reading. You can find it on www.bible.com
You may rediscover REAL love that is currently strained or just getting by.
