A Love Relationship

Can you really have an intimate relationship with God? The Song of Solomon pictures a love so deep the bride searches the streets for the one her soul loves.

“On my bed by night I sought him whom my soul loves; I sought him, but found him not. I will rise now and go about the city, in the streets … I will seek him whom my soul loves” (Song of Solomon 3:1–2).

The Bible often uses human love as a metaphor for God’s relationship with His people. The church is described as the bride of Christ, and as God’s plan unfolds, we read that “the marriage of the Lamb has come, and his Bride has made herself ready” (Revelation 19:7).

In describing the relationship between husbands and wives, Paul tells us this is a great “mystery,” but the whole matter “refers to Christ and the church” (Ephesians 5:22–32).

Solomon develops this metaphor extensively as he writes of the intense passion a woman had for her true love. So strong was her desire, she looked for him, knowing he was the one “whom my soul loves.” She asked the watchmen to help her find him. And once her beloved came into view, she vowed to hold onto him. This was a two-way relationship, with both man and woman absolutely and totally committed to each other.

We find great contrast to this in the relationship between Ahasuerus and Vashti, King and Queen of Persia (described in Esther 1). Though Ahasuerus could command a vast empire and impress others with his power and riches, he could not compel his wife to love him. The woman in the Song of Solomon did not need to be compelled: She was in love.

Today, spend time alone with God. Let Him show you how much He loves you. Let that love become the passion of your life.

Reflection Question: Describe your love for God and your desire for relationship with Him.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Song of Solomon symbolize?

While celebrating love between a husband and wife, Scripture uses it as a picture of God’s relationship with His people—and Christ’s love for the church, described as His bride (Ephesians 5; Revelation 19:7).

How can I grow closer to God?

Intimacy with God grows through time spent alone with Him—seeking Him in prayer and worship, and allowing His love to become the central passion of your life rather than an obligation.