This new section tells how the couple’s marriage grew and matured in spite of problems. Some time has passed since the wedding and the maiden feels that some indifference has developed in their relationship. She has become cool to Solomon’s advances and he has left because she delayed in opening the door to him (v.3-5). She now wants to correct that problem and goes off to search for him (v. 6-8).There are two layers here: You and your spouse - Marriage familiarity over time loses some sparkle. Conflicts and pressures may creep in and tenderness towards each other can dwindle. It’s tough and marriage has to be worked at. Remember that couples need to be a haven for one another, where together they can be renewed. Remember that first thrill and excitement? Focus on the positives in your relationship and remember what first attracted you to each other. Together you can be stronger!

You and God – Has your love for God cooled? Think back to times when you felt so full of love for Him that you were excited to sing, pray and read the Bible. Maybe you are in a desert place where you don’t feel close or connected to God. Wherever you are at the moment in your relationship with God, never stop reading His Word or praying. God is always present, even when you can’t feel Him. Tell God how thankful you are for Jesus and the love He has for you. Slowly, your love for Him will be rekindled. Search for Him. I sometimes think God allows us to experience times like this. When we look back, we often notice that we learnt a great deal from being in the desert and feeling unconnected. When we return, we are stronger!

Now that the maiden is searching for her ‘beloved’, it all starts to make sense (6: 10-16). She describes him to her friends and in 6:3 she realises that “I am my lovers and He is mine.” She realises they belong to each other. They are in complete union of mind, heart and body. Then comes the enjoyment of a restored relationship (v.4-13). They are together again and the warmth of their relationship is evident. There is complete forgiveness on Solomon’s part and no bitterness between them.

Another two layers: You and your spouse – When you go through a rough time and then reconcile your differences, forgiveness is paramount on both sides. Forget your hurt and wounded pride; forget petty revenge. Think only of assuring each other of forgiveness. You and God – We all make God sad at times through our behaviour, but He still loves us unconditionally. We need to remind ourselves of this frequently and understand that God doesn’t hold a grudge, or even remember our wrongdoings. He waits for us to return to Him and He waits with open arms.

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Thank you Father for loving and accepting me for who I am. Thank you for always forgiving me and searching for me when I shut the door on you. Thank you for showing me ways back to you and please continue to help me be more like your Son Jesus Christ, who dies in my place, because of your amazing love for me. Amen.