Song of Solomon 2:4
"He brought me to his banqueting house, and his banner over me was love (for love waved as a protecting and comforting banner over my head when I was near him)."
This year, Michelle and I marked our 29th wedding anniversary. As I reflect on my wedding day, what a wonderful time of celebration this day proved to be as we acknowledged and declared our love for each other. In the book of the Song of Solomon, God gives us an example of what a proper relationship should look like; both a courtship and marriage.
Not only that, but through the book of the Song of Solomon, God also gives us a picture of Christ (the groom) and the Church (the bride). In this particular passage, we may learn a couple of truths concerning what God says about us (the church) and what He has established over us.
Firstly, He brought us to His banqueting house. This truth refers to His spiritual house in which His full majesty may be experienced. As we give ourselves to Him and His Lordship in our lives, He comes to dwell in us by the Holy Spirit.
The banqueting house, in Hebrew, refers to wine, intoxication. In other words, the awareness of the presence of God is like a heady intoxication. A spiritual one, nonetheless, far greater than any effects on the body drinking wine could give. In Ephesians 5:18 says "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery: but ever be filled and stimulated with the Holy Spirit."
May we allow God, through Christ, to lead us into His banqueting house and have more of an awareness of His presence during this time and season. Let's find something to celebrate as we go throughout this time and rejoice in what God is doing in our lives.
Secondly, He waves HIs banner over us; and His banner is one of love. Can you imagine the bride and groom celebrating their union at the wedding reception. The groom professing his love for the bride. And, the bride, returning her adoration and love to the groom.
In Hebrew, this symbolism refers to a waving of a flag. In other words, Jesus (the groom) demonstrates His unconditional love to the Church (the bride) by rescuing her and gathering her to His waiting arms. He greatly cherishes her and extends His mercy and forgiveness to her in strong, passionate love.
May we align with God's banner of love in this season and overcome the enemies strategy to kill, steal, and destroy that alignment. You see, the enemy will try to establish his banner over you by getting you to walk in fear instead of God's perfect love. We overcome by honing in on God's love and aligning our flag with HIs banner of love. In I John 4:18, it says "There is no fear in love (dread does not exist), but full-grown (complete, perfect) love turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear brings with it the thought of punishment, and (so) he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love (is not yet grown into love's complete perfection)."
If God leads, I will share more on this important revelation later.
However, this remains a time of growing in intimacy with Him and aligning your flag with God's banner. He will meet with you bringing joy and strength to your everyday walk of faith.
If, in any way, Michelle and I can pray for you and with you, please feel free to let us know. We would be honored to pray and prophecy for you.
Blessings!!
Mark and Michelle Gulland
113 Bradfield Road
Madison, MS. 39110
markgulland@gmail.com
michellegulland@gmail.com
