Song of Solomon 3:6-11

Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking Him to meet with you and speak to you.

Bible Reading

What is that coming up from the wilderness like columns of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, with all the fragrant powders of a merchant? Behold, it is the litter of Solomon! Around it are sixty mighty men, some of the mighty men of Israel, all of them wearing swords and expert in war, each with his sword at his thigh, against terror by night. King Solomon made himself a carriage from the wood of Lebanon. He made its posts of silver, its back of gold, its seat of purple; its interior was inlaid with love by the daughters of Jerusalem. Go out, O daughters of Zion, and look upon King Solomon, with the crown with which his mother crowned him on the day of his wedding, on the day of the gladness of his heart.

– Song of Solomon 3:6-11

Devotion

In this passage, we see the great wedding procession of Solomon surrounded by his caravan of soldiers. The pomp, nobility, and wealth of Solomon are displayed as his caravan makes its way to his bride. He is perfumed with myrrh and frankincense to such an extent that the columns of smoke are seen from a great distance, demonstrating both the wealth of the king and the holiness of this event. Solomon wastes no expense to treat his bride with honor, dignity, and a very public display of commitment. Women come out to stare in awe, as this great and powerful leader comes to elevate one of their sisters from her humble beginnings to a state of honor, respect, and royalty.

The groom went to great lengths to prepare for this ceremony, taking the bride away to a life of safety, luxury, and paradise. We should approach marriage in a similar manner. Husbands are to bestow honor, privilege, and safety to their spouses. They should view their wives as their queens, honoring them in ways that show their true beauty. Wedding day vows should not be forgotten in the business of everyday life but remembered often and celebrated. Likewise, wives should respond with humility and devotion to their husbands.

The Big Question

How seriously do you view the ceremony of marriage? If you are married, how have you recently shown your spouse that he/she is the king/queen? Do you live each day with your spouse as if it was your wedding day? What might you need to do to provide your spouse with the honor, dignity, and beauty that they deserve?

Conclude in prayer and silence reflecting on what you’ve learned.z