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- Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
- Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
- Serie: The Passion Translation Devotionals
- Sprache: Englisch
- Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2017
Encounter God's Delight in You! The Holy Spirit wants to wash you in the refreshing grace that streams every day from God's presence. Listen to God's life-giving words—words that heal and draw you into greater intimacy with Jesus. Be moved by his voice, stirred by his Spirit, and thrilled by these messages of love. Open your soul to the whispers of God so that you hear him whisper his message of love to you!
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BroadStreet Publishing® Group, LLC
Racine, Wisconsin, USA
BroadStreetPublishing.com
The Divine Romance:365 Days Meditating on the Song of Songs
Copyright © 2017 Brian Simmons and Gretchen Rodriguez
Written by Brian Simmons and Gretchen Rodriguez
ISBN-13: 978-1-4245-5552-9 (faux leather)
ISBN-13: 978-1-4245-5553-6 (e-book)
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form, except for brief quotations in printed reviews, without permission in writing from the publisher.
All Scripture quotations are from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 by BroadStreet Publishing® Group, Racine, Wisconsin. thePassionTranslation.com. Used by permission.
Stock or custom editions of BroadStreet Publishing titles may be purchased in bulk for educational, business, ministry, fundraising, or sales promotional use. For information, please e-mail [email protected].
Cover design by Chris Garborg at garborgdesign.com.
Typesetting by Katherine Lloyd at theDESKonline.com.
Printed in China
17 18 19 20 21 5 4 3 2 1
Contents
Introduction
January
January 1 The Greatest Song
January 2 Let Him
January 3 Lavish
January 4 Kiss Me
January 5 Kindness
January 6 Fragrant Love
January 7 Over and Over
January 8 The Most Beautiful Name
January 9 Adore
January 10 Draw Me
January 11 Together
January 12 Holy Chambers
January 13 Remember
January 14 Joy
January 15 The Light Within
January 16 Lovely
January 17 His Masterpiece
January 18 Perfect
January 19 Accepted
January 20 The Garden of Our Heart
January 21 Listen
January 22 Satisfy
January 23 Shepherd
January 24 Unveiled
January 25 Radiant
January 26 Closer
January 27 Embracing Vulnerability
January 28 Affirming Love
January 29 Uncovered
January 30 Thrilling
January 31 Strength
February
February 1 Expressions
February 2 Ears to Hear
February 3 Beauty of Surrender
February 4 You Make Me Beautiful
February 5 Entwined
February 6 Grace
February 7 The King Has Come
February 8 A Fragrant Life
February 9 Awake
February 10 Suffering Love
February 11 The Power of Love
February 12 Embrace
February 13 Beautiful
February 14 Fountain of the Lamb
February 15 Never Let Go
February 16 My Reflection
February 17 You Are
February 18 Dove’s Eyes
February 19 Beyond Words
February 20 Find Rest
February 21 Illuminate
February 22 Safe
February 23 My Friend
February 24 Dwelling Daily
February 25 You Are His Rose
February 26 Songs of Love
February 27 Overshadowed
February 28 In the Valleys
March
March 1 Unique
March 2 Effortless
March 3 Who Is He?
March 4 Refreshing Love
March 5 Rest
March 6 Invigorate
March 7 Unending Glory
March 8 Suddenly
March 9 Intoxicating Love
March 10 Relentless
March 11 Revive Me
March 12 Promises
March 13 Lovesick
March 14 His Touch
March 15 Close
March 16 The Place of Peace
March 17 Words of Affection
March 18 Seasons of Rest
March 19 It’s Him!
March 20 Joy
March 21 Obstacles
March 22 Nothing Can Separate You
March 23 Discover
March 24 Facets
March 25 Hidden
March 26 Seen
March 27 Peering through the Lattice
March 28 Blossom
March 29 Arise
March 30 Because You Asked
March 31 Ready or Not!
April
April 1 A New Season
April 2 Unveiled
April 3 Drenched
April 4 Find Your Song
April 5 What Do You Hear?
April 6 See
April 7 Purpose
April 8 Bloom
April 9 Fragrant
April 10 Run with Me!
April 11 Higher
April 12 My Dove
April 13 Secret Stairs
April 14 Face-to-Face
April 15 Catch the Foxes
April 16 A Budding Vineyard
April 17 Together
April 18 I Am His and He Is Mine
April 19 Unselfish Love
April 20 Fearless Love
April 21 You Are Significant
April 22 Dawn
April 23 Mountain of Spices
April 24 Where Are You?
April 25 The Yearning Heart
April 26 Searching
April 27 Unstoppable
April 28 True Love
April 29 The Shepherds
April 30 Have You Found Him?
May
May 1 Beyond
May 2 Encounter
May 3 Find Him
May 4 Fastened
May 5 Mercy
May 6 The Temple Within
May 7 Hold Me
May 8 Believe Again!
May 9 Anointed with Splendor
May 10 Most Fragrant
May 11 The Chariot of Love
May 12 Safe
May 13 Angelic Warriors
May 14 Even While You Sleep
May 15 Mercy Seat
May 16 The Beauty of the Mercy Seat
May 17 The Glory of Love
May 18 Crimson
May 19 Priceless
May 20 A Beautiful Life
May 21 Brides-to-Be
May 22 Feast Your Eyes
May 23 Joy
May 24 Remind Me
May 25 Eyes of Devotion
May 26 Behind the Veil
May 27 Living Sacrifice
May 28 Open
May 29 The Word
May 30 Pure
May 31 Grace
June
June 1 Speak
June 2 Words of Worship
June 3 Embracing Vulnerability
June 4 Strength
June 5 Secure
June 6 Grace
June 7 Infused with Faith
June 8 Impart
June 9 Brave
June 10 With You
June 11 The Mountain of Myrrh
June 12 Fragrant Offering
June 13 Yes!
June 14 Beautiful Bride
June 15 Believe
June 16 You Are
June 17 Now
June 18 Bride of the Mountains
June 19 Things Revealed
June 20 Conqueror
June 21 Ravished
June 22 His Equal
June 23 One Glance
June 24 Righteous One
June 25 The Finest Wine
June 26 Praise
June 27 Words of Love
June 28 Milk and Honey
June 29 The Atmosphere of Glory
June 30 A Garden Enclosed
July
July 1 A Fountain
July 2 Partnering with Jesus
July 3 All of You
July 4 Fruitful
July 5 When I’m near You
July 6 Abundant
July 7 Fragrant Worship
July 8 Tears from the Tree
July 9 Light
July 10 Waters of Refreshing
July 11 Mountain Brook
July 12 Fully Yours
July 13 Stirring
July 14 Daily
July 15 Enjoy
July 16 Confident
July 17 You Are
July 18 For His Pleasure
July 19 You Have Become a Feast
July 20 An Ever-Flowing Fountain
July 21 Dream
July 22 He Sings over You
July 23 Knock
July 24 Deeper Still
July 25 He Needs You
July 26 Gethsemane
July 27 There’s Always More
July 28 Reasoning
July 29 Unlock My Heart
July 30 Burning Heart
July 31 Arise
August
August 1 Surrender
August 2 Dripping with Myrrh
August 3 Where Are You?
August 4 By Faith
August 5 Search
August 6 Unquenchable
August 7 When You Are Wounded
August 8 Authentic
August 9 Endurance
August 10 Pierced Through by Love
August 11 What Love!
August 12 Idols
August 13 You’re Beautiful
August 14 He Alone
August 15 Dazzling
August 16 Incomparable
August 17 Beauty of Holiness
August 18 Majesty
August 19 He Sees You
August 20 Insight
August 21 Those Eyes
August 22 The Highest Path
August 23 Beautiful Emotions
August 24 Lovely
August 25 Speak to Me
August 26 Words
August 27 Holy Hands
August 28 Mercy
August 29 The Depths
August 30 Magnificent
August 31 Steadfast
September
September 1 Unrivaled
September 2 Stand Amazed
September 3 His Kisses Are Sweet
September 4 Altogether Lovely
September 5 Let Me Count the Ways
September 6 Holy Desire
September 7 Friend
September 8 In You
September 9 Point the Way
September 10 Lead by Example
September 11 Community
September 12 Spice of Life
September 13 Pure of Heart
September 14 I Know
September 15 Within
September 16 Fully Yours
September 17 United
September 18 More Than Any Other
September 19 You Ravish His Heart
September 20 Irresistible
September 21 Held by Love
September 22 Devoted
September 23 Shine
September 24 Balanced
September 25 Complete
September 26 Emotion
September 27 Passion
September 28 Humility
September 29 Chosen
September 30 Royalty
October
October 1 Glorious Obsession
October 2 Perfect
October 3 Above Reproach
October 4 Arise
October 5 Fairer Than the Moon
October 6 As Brilliant as the Sun
October 7 Valleys
October 8 Transforming Love
October 9 Maturing Love
October 10 Unconditional Love
October 11 Genuine
October 12 Power and Humility
October 13 The Dance of Love
October 14 Go!
October 15 Ushering In
October 16 Masterpiece
October 17 The Fullness Within
October 18 Multiply
October 19 Gracious
October 20 Shining with Courage
October 21 Revelation
October 22 Discernment
October 23 Redeeming Love
October 24 Thoughts
October 25 Captivating
October 26 Inexplicable Beauty
October 27 Delight in Me
October 28 The Greatest Is Love
October 29 Victorious
October 30 Stately and Secure
October 31 Your Vineyard
November
November 1 Revival
November 2 Habitation
November 3 Fine Wine
November 4 Speak
November 5 Kisses
November 6 Taste and See
November 7 Wake Up!
November 8 To Be One
November 9 For Him
November 10 Come
November 11 Let’s Go!
November 12 Not Forgotten
November 13 The Vineyard in Others
November 14 Maturing Desire
November 15 Love on Display
November 16 Royal Love
November 17 Rare
November 18 Testimony
November 19 Your Friend
November 20 Communicating Love
November 21 Express Yourself
November 22 You Are a Well
November 23 Lead Him
November 24 Aware
November 25 His Cup of Delight
November 26 Step In
November 27 Thoughts
November 28 Close
November 29 Rest
November 30 Awake
December
December 1 Transformed
December 2 Cling to Him
December 3 Under the Apple Tree
December 4 Travail
December 5 Sealed
December 6 Stronger
December 7 All of Me
December 8 Unquenchable Fire
December 9 Consumed
December 10 Worth It All
December 11 It’s Time
December 12 Wedding Day
December 13 Walls of Protection
December 14 Enclose Me
December 15 I Am a Bride
December 16 Bliss
December 17 Favor
December 18 Vineyard of Love
December 19 Chosen
December 20 Forever
December 21 Honor
December 22 Reward
December 23 One
December 24 Finding Your Tribe
December 25 Listen
December 26 Arise
December 27 Come Quickly
December 28 You Were Made for This!
December 29 Dance with Him
December 30 Victorious
December 31 One
About the Authors
Introduction
The Lord is beckoning every believer into a lifestyle of unhindered devotion. Through the Song of Songs, Jesus extends the invitation for a relationship with Him that defies natural understanding. It is mysterious yet tangible, satisfying, and wonderful. Dive into The Divine Romance and watch as His love lays a foundation of confidence and identity.
Journey with us as we walk step-by-step through the Song of Songs. Each day, you will find a short encouragement and a prayer, but most of all, you will discover Jesus’ unrelenting love for you. Take time to soak in the devotion of the day. Give yourself an extra moment to let the glory that flows through these words penetrate your heart. Allow the Lord to breathe upon you and awaken places of your soul that have been weary, dry, and asleep.
You are God’s masterpiece—beautiful, unique, and priceless. It is our prayer that you will emerge from these devotions understanding just how loved and powerful you are.
January
January 1
The Greatest Song
The most amazing song of all, by King Solomon.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:1
Open your heart as you embark upon the journey of a lifetime. This is Jesus’ song, which He sings over you, His beautiful bride. Today, allow the greatest song ever composed, the Song of all Songs, to lead you into the flaming heart of Jesus Christ. Embrace these truths and they will pierce the deepest places of your being and radically change your relationship with God.
Today the Lord is beckoning you to step into the mysteries of His love. A love that cannot be compared to any love you have ever known on this earth. Just one kiss from Jesus has power to transform your entire life. You have a divine destiny and were created to encounter His tangible presence. Along the way, you will be blessed and broken, cherished and challenged. Yet in the end, you will be consumed with Him and discover your true identity.
Father, I gratefully accept your invitation to divine romance. Let the presence of your Holy Spirit saturate every fiber of my being and teach me things I’ve never known before. I open my heart to you today without reservation. Transform my relationship with you as I discover the reality of your love in new ways. Speak to me and lead me on this journey. I want to hear your sweet voice as you sing over my soul.
January 2
Let Him
Let him smother me with kisses—his Spirit-kiss divine.
So kind are your caresses,
I drink them in like the sweetest wine!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:2
W hat a wonderful way to begin your journey into God’s heart! There is no striving or heavy burden, only a simple cry from your heart for Him to come kiss your life. Yield your heart and simply let Him be your everything.
Let Him be your strength today!
Let Him be the One to hold you fast today!
Let Him carry every burden and care that is unbearable for you!
It’s so easy to daily let Him be your all. To go further into Christ’s love doesn’t mean you struggle or painfully push yourself forward. You simply bring Him a yielded heart and let Him do the rest. Soon, He will become everything to you.
Lord, so many times I thought the burden was on me to advance and grow in love. But in fact, your love is what opens my heart for more! I rest in your love today and calmly yield to you. Smother me with your kisses until I am drawn deeper into your love. I give you every burden of my heart and each passion of my soul.
January 3
Lavish
Let him smother me with kisses—his Spirit-kiss divine.
So kind are your caresses,
I drink them in like the sweetest wine!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:2
Jesus longs to smother every aspect of your life with His love. If you will invite Him to come, His glory will flood the deepest, driest, and most wounded areas of your being. His love is filled with mercy, grace, healing, and wisdom. Nothing remains the same once it’s saturated with Him. God wants you to have a good life, and the invitation of divine love is where it all begins.
Expect His love to extinguish every fear. The kisses of His Spirit will smother anxiety, doubt, and unbelief. His hope can heal disappointment. His joy will overwhelm every sorrow. He is the light in the darkest seasons of your soul. The more deeply you receive His love, the more it will overflow into every part of your life. Ask Him to saturate your spirit, soul, and body today. It is time for you to experience a fresh kiss from heaven!
God, meet with me today. Let the kiss of your Spirit smother my life and launch me into a deeper relationship with you. Jesus, I long to experience your love and glory in ways I never have before. Leave no part of my life untouched by your beauty. Lavish me with your love.
January 4
Kiss Me
Let him smother me with kisses—his Spirit-kiss divine.
So kind are your caresses,
I drink them in like the sweetest wine!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:2
E ven the simplest revelations can impact your life forever. This is the revelation of His love for you, personally. It is not about others, it is about Jesus and you. Sermons and rules will never satisfy the longings of your heart, because you were created for so much more. Let this cry come from the depth of your being: “Jesus, come kiss me!” When you call for Him to make this relationship personal, He will come running.
You were created with a holy kiss—the very breath of God. Everything about you was created by and for His love. Any walls that you have erected to protect your heart are about to come crashing down! And you will never feel safer. This heavenly kiss will awaken your spirit to His affections and destroy every hindrance to a deeper relationship with Him. Jesus loves you, just the way you are.
Father, I’m asking that your Son, the Son of your splendor, would kiss me with the kisses of His Word. I cry out for the kisses of His affection, the kisses of His mercy, and the kisses of His forgiveness. Thank you for loving me, believing that I am special, and choosing me to walk with you on this journey. Awaken my heart with your kiss.
January 5
Kindness
Let him smother me with kisses—his Spirit-kiss divine.
So kind are your caresses,
I drink them in like the sweetest wine!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:2
Nothing is more pleasurable to the human heart than the love of Jesus. Nothing is more delightful. Nothing can compare to the caresses of His love—it awakens our hearts in the most unexpected ways. It makes us feel alive and fills us with joy. It wipes away the past and reaches out its hands to guide us forward. It stirs up desires we never knew existed and gives us the means to satisfy them.
His kindness is overwhelming. His love is better than wine. Relentlessly He pursues us, knowing that what we desire most in this life is found in Him. Once we taste of this love, we know that nothing else could ever fulfill us. Drink deeply from the passions that flow from His heart. Let the mystery of His presence wash over you as you embrace the reality of His nearness.
Jesus, I want to know you in ways I never have before. Let me feel your touch. Pour your love into my soul and revive me with your sweet caress. I will embrace the mystery of who you are, and I know you will reveal yourself to me anew. Thank you for seeking me out and igniting my heart with a fresh passion to know you more. Your kindness amazes me. I can never get enough of you.
January 6
Fragrant Love
Your presence releases a fragrance so pleasing—
over and over poured out.
For your lovely name is “Flowing Oil.”
No wonder the brides-to-be adore you.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:3
G et close enough to Him to smell the fragrance of His presence. It’s so pleasing, so winsome and inviting. It speaks of who He is, what He thinks, and what He feels. This is the fragrance of His beautiful personality—His internal qualities of love and gentleness.
Let the Lord capture you and sweep you off your feet. Look into His eyes and you will see how much He enjoys you. The way He gazes at you will ignite hope and calm all of your worries. His smile is more radiant than a brilliant sunrise—it warms your heart and illuminates your soul.
Allow yourself to get lost in the fragrance of Jesus—carried away by the delight of His love. Take a deep breath and faith will invigorate you. The cologne of His compassion will leave you undone—unable to resist Him. Release every thought about Him that is not true and embrace His generous love.
Father, I love you. I want to experience the fragrance of your presence and the reality of your Son. Surround me with your love. Wrap yourself around me and draw me closer to you than ever before. Breathe upon my life. Exhale the splendor of your majesty upon me. I worship you. You are my delight forever.
January 7
Over and Over
Your presence releases a fragrance so pleasing—
over and over poured out.
For your lovely name is “Flowing Oil.”
No wonder the brides-to-be adore you.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:3
Over and over again, Jesus will faithfully come woo your heart until you are totally His. Your passion may not be fully awakened to His love, but if it’s your desire, He will not disappoint. Jesus knows exactly what you need and precisely how to stir your love. All you have to do is ask.
His love is irresistible when it crashes upon our hearts like unrelenting waves. With one taste of His divine passion, we are addicted. Lovesick ones become even more lovesick, and hardened hearts melt like wax when He comes on the scene. Just to think of Him opens us to the sweetness of true love. Ever so graciously, God pours a continuous stream of love into the deepest caverns of our soul. Though we cannot fathom the depths of His love with our minds, we can experience them in life-changing measure.
Jesus come. Now and always, I want to encounter your love. I want to know you as well as you know me. Quench my thirsty soul with the power of your passion and draw me into the depths of your presence that I’ve yet to discover. No matter how long it takes, make me fully yours, with no barriers to restrict our love.
January 8
The Most Beautiful Name
Your presence releases a fragrance so pleasing—
over and over poured out.
For your lovely name is “Flowing Oil.”
No wonder the brides-to-be adore you.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:3
Jesus is our true Savior, Friend, and King. His name is like fragrant oil, pouring over us and lingering upon our soul. His name is the power of victory. It heals the sick, unlocks the chains of bondage, and raises the dead. His name is like no other—setting our hearts on fire while extinguishing the fiery darts of hell. It is sweeter to the soul than honey.
When we feel alone and detached from Him, all we have to do is say His name, Jesus, and He will flood our longing hearts. Soon, weakness is replaced with strength, fear is conquered by love, and wisdom annihilates confusion. He is enough to satisfy every desire of our soul.
Jesus is all of the lovely and powerful things combined. Dive into the secrets of this name that is above every other name and you will unlock treasures that will cause your heart to soar!
Jesus, your name flows from my lips like soothing oil. It warms my heart and ignites an insatiable desire to know you more. Simply saying your name begins to calm the storms that rage within. Hold me close and whisper secrets that only your beloved may hear. I want to experience the power of your name in my life.
January 9
Adore
Your presence releases a fragrance so pleasing—
over and over poured out.
For your lovely name is “Flowing Oil.”
No wonder the brides-to-be adore you.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:3
There is nothing as soothing as the presence of Jesus. Turn your focus away from temporary distractions and fill your mind with the beauty of your King. Imagine His eyes gazing into yours. Listen for His words to strengthen your faith. Expect His love to flood every fiber of your being. Surrender everything—every hope and dream, each fear and worry. Lay it all at His feet and worship Him. Nothing is too big for Him to handle.
No one deserves your love more than the Lord. No one is as trustworthy. He’s already proven His love for you. Invite Him to come meet with you today, then simply believe He is there. Rest in His love as He wraps you in His arms. He who is faithful will take care of everything.
Jesus, you inspire me. You see everyone through the eyes of love. Perfect wisdom dwells within you. You are life, hope, and joy. You are the peace that surpasses all understanding. Everything good and beautiful is found in you. I want to live my life constantly aware of your nearness, love, and power. Let me experience the reality of your love in ways I never knew possible.
January 10
Draw Me
Draw me into your heart and lead me out.
We will run away together into the king’s cloud-filled chamber.
The Chorus of Friends
We will remember your love, rejoicing and delighting in you,
celebrating your every kiss as better than wine.
No wonder righteousness adores you!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:4
God Himself wants to tell you everything that He loves about you. He wants to whisper secrets to your heart and uncover mysteries that have yet to be revealed. You have resurrection power flowing through your veins. The greatest treasure in all of heaven and earth lives inside of you. Embrace the truth of who you are and your entire life will be transformed.
Perhaps you don’t fully understand how to get closer to God, or maybe you feel stuck in your relationship with Him. Well, I’ve got great news for you—He knows what you need and how to give it to you. It’s His desire to bless you with a life of divine encounters. You never have to beg for them, but you do need to ask. Open your heart and He will lead you straight into His. Get ready! This will be the adventure of a lifetime.
God, draw me into your heart—into a life of continuous encounters with your tangible love. Lift me out of complacency and set my heart ablaze for you. Take me from one glorious experience to the next and open your Word to me with fresh revelation. Let me see the world through the reality of perfect love.
January 11
Together
Draw me into your heart and lead me out.
We will run away together into the king’s cloud-filled chamber.
The Chorus of Friends
We will remember your love, rejoicing and delighting in you,
celebrating your every kiss as better than wine.
No wonder righteousness adores you!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:4
When Jesus draws you, the only proper response is to run with Him with all your heart. Jesus has chosen you to be His partner in ministry. He invites you to run alongside Him, knowing you can keep up. You were created for a purpose, sealed with a divine destiny. Nothing will stop you if you set your eyes on your Beloved. Hurdles of misunderstanding, persecution, and failure will only serve to strengthen you in this race. Together, you will ignite the flames of holy passion in others, breathe life into weary souls, and set the captives free.
Journey with Him and He’ll bless you with creativity and wisdom in all you do. Talents and gifts, which have lain dormant within you, will spring to life. All that you need to run this race victoriously is yours through Jesus Christ.
Jesus, with holy resolve, I will run with you. When I’m weak, take me by the hand, so I won’t trip and fall. I may not always understand where this journey is headed, but I trust you. Together, we will release your glory into the world!
January 12
Holy Chambers
Draw me into your heart and lead me out.
We will run away together into the king’s cloud-filled chamber.
The Chorus of Friends
We will remember your love, rejoicing and delighting in you,
celebrating your every kiss as better than wine.
No wonder righteousness adores you!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:4
You have been granted access into the holy of holies, the chamber of the King—the very presence of God Himself. When you choose to worship the Lord and turn all your attention to Him, you’re accepting His invitation for a deeper relationship. You’re stepping into His heart.
Here, Jesus will reveal His glory. It is in this place, where deep calls unto deep, that the spiritual and the natural realms collide. You were created to experience heaven on earth. This cloud-filled chamber is not only a place you’ll see in heaven; it’s the place of His presence here and now, where He discloses Himself to the seeking heart. Unlike the courtyard, where you learn about the Lord, the chamber is where you get to know Him personally. This is His desire for every believer—to walk through the chamber doors where He awaits and enjoy Him forever.
Jesus, lead me by the hand into the secret place of your presence. I want to see you, hear you, and experience the beauty of your redeeming grace. I’m not satisfied with glimpses of your glory. I want to dive into its very depths and never resurface. Flood my soul with the substance of your holy love. Thank you for lifting the veil, so I may enter in.
January 13
Remember
Draw me into your heart and lead me out.
We will run away together into the king’s cloud-filled chamber.
The Chorus of Friends
We will remember your love, rejoicing and delighting in you,
celebrating your every kiss as better than wine.
No wonder righteousness adores you!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:4
All good relationships must be intentionally cultivated. The same is true of our connection with the Lord. Though we are joined with Christ, we must purposefully tend to this first love, so the flames of holy passion never grow dim. We don’t strive to show ourselves worthy; we simply fall—repeatedly—back into the arms of the One who gave His all for us.
At the Lord’s table, we remember the price He paid for us. His love is greater than any other. Through the participation of the bread and wine, we draw near and enter the realm where symbols become substance. As we drink the cup of communion, we remember His intoxicating sweetness. It is better than wine and more alluring than the pleasures of this life.
Father, I honor you for the perfect gift of love you’ve given me through your Son. Give me grace to pursue your heart with unrelenting devotion. Our relationship means more to me than any other. Your love satisfies every longing of my heart. Over and over, I will choose you and remember your perfect love that has set me free.
January 14
Joy
The Chorus of Friends
We will remember your love, rejoicing and delighting in you,
celebrating your every kiss as better than wine.
No wonder righteousness adores you!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:4
Joy dwells deep within you because the Holy Spirit inside of you is a well of joy! You may not be happy about what’s happening in your life, but joy isn’t determined by circumstances—it’s the profound result of what you dwell on. Instead of rehearsing your problems, rejoice in the Lord. Remind yourself that with Him, nothing is impossible!
When your faith is in Him, you can be totally at rest regardless of what comes against you. Miracles, breakthrough, blessing, physical and emotional healing, and abundant wisdom come from the Lord. When you focus on truth, instead of facts, faith and joy begin to bubble within. The joy of the Lord will transform your life, when you remember that God is on your side.
Father, fill me with your joy. I shake off worry and release my cares to you. I choose to think about your goodness and faithfulness. I choose to be thankful. Nothing is too hard for you! You can heal the pain of the past in a split second. You can download creative ideas for breakthrough and pour out wisdom without measure. Today marks a new day! From this moment forward, I will rejoice because I know my answer is on its way.
January 15
The Light Within
The Shulamite: Jerusalem maidens, in this twilight darkness
I know I am so unworthy—so in need.
The Shepherd-King: Yet you are so lovely!
The Shulamite: I feel as dark and dry as the desert tents
of the wandering nomads.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:5
Loving Jesus will eventually lead to a revelation of our own condition. When purity and holiness are the cry of our hearts, God, in His great mercy and tender affection, will reveal the areas that need our attention. Nothing is hidden from His sight.
Recognizing our weaknesses isn’t a call for guilt and condemnation. Instead, it’s an invitation for true repentance—where we come face-to-face with our great need for God. In exchange for the yoke of guilt, fear, and religious duty, Jesus offers us the yoke of holy union. He sets us free from every sin and bondage. No amount of obedience, or adherence to religious law, can make us righteous. To fully yield our lives to Jesus is to be emptied of self-confidence and selfish ambition. We are totally dependent upon Him. There is such freedom in knowing that even in our darkness, He is the light within.
Father, I need you. Even when I try to do everything right, to live with pure motives, and to walk humbly before you, I still mess up. I’m so grateful that you see me through the eyes of mercy and compassion. Let the fire of your love burn away everything that doesn’t look like you.
January 16
Lovely
The Shulamite: Jerusalem maidens, in this twilight darkness
I know I am so unworthy—so in need.
The Shepherd-King: Yet you are so lovely!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:5
Even when we’re confronted by our weaknesses, Jesus calls us lovely. He doesn’t point an accusatory finger or constantly bash us because we aren’t perfect. He opens His arms, pulls us close, and tells us how beautiful we are. He exchanges our imperfection for His perfection. His love for us will conquer our fear and unbelief, healing every wound that has crippled us and left us feeling ugly.
The Lord speaks to our identity and opens our eyes, so we can embrace it ourselves. Receive these words into your heart today: You are beautiful. You are anointed. God Himself has a purpose for your life. Favor and wisdom are yours. The joy of the Lord is your portion. Righteousness and peace have kissed your soul.
Jesus, thank you for seeing me through the light of your mercy and grace. The way that you encourage me always makes me feel special. Your gentle whispers become gusts of wind for me to soar upon. When I’m with you, I feel beautiful. When I look into your eyes, the dreams of my heart come alive, and I want to praise you forever. I feel as if I can conquer every obstacle when I’m with you!
January 17
His Masterpiece
The Shepherd-King
Yet you are so lovely—
like the fine linen tapestry hanging in the Holy Place.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:5
Within the sanctuary of the holy of holies, Solomon hung the finest linen curtains. Only the priests who entered could see them from the inside. You are like this fine tapestry—a work of art placed on display in His private chambers, where He alone admires your beauty. You are God’s most magnificent masterpiece; more valued than anything else in this entire world, more precious than the curtains that hung in the holy of holies.
Others may look at what you’ve done or define you based on your past, but God sees your inner beauty—the real you. Never let anyone make you feel insignificant. Never accept the lie that you have no value. You are worth everything to God. It’s the reason He sent His Son to suffer and die on the cross. You move His heart, and He loves you exactly the way you are.
Father, come wrap me in your presence. Let your love wash away anything I’ve believed about myself that doesn’t agree with how you see me. I want to carry myself with humble confidence, remembering who I am and to whom I belong. I am amazing because I was made in your image. Hope is springing up where doubt and confusion had once taken root. I am defined by the price of perfect love. I am your masterpiece.
January 18
Perfect
The Shulamite to her friends
Please don’t stare in scorn
because of my dark and sinful ways.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:6
Our identity in Jesus—who He says we are—isn’t always easy to accept. The good news is, He understands our doubt and enjoys reminding us who we are in Him. From the moment we said yes to His invitation to divine romance, He placed a crown on our heads and knew it would take us time to grow into it.
We see the darkness of our own souls more clearly than anyone else. It seems almost impossible that we could be the beautiful creatures Jesus says we are, let alone be worthy of the King’s love. Yet this is where deity and humanity merge—perfection poured into vessels of imperfection, making them equally perfect.
Once you embrace the truth of who you are, you won’t strive to prove it to anyone. You will be at peace with who you are and be happy with how He made you.
Jesus, you’re so good to me. So patient and kind. No matter how many times I mess up, you just keep reminding me who I am and who you’ve created me to be. I choose to see myself the way that you see me—cherished and loved. When I’m confronted by the darkness inside my soul, flood me with the light of your glory. Transform me into the beautiful bride you’ve called me to be. Your mercy and grace amaze me.
January 19
Accepted
My angry brothers quarreled with me
and appointed me guardian of their ministry vineyards,
yet I’ve not tended my vineyard within.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:6
At some point, Jesus will address impure motives. Trying to make everyone happy, so they won’t think poorly of you, is a motive that stems from a fear of rejection. Doing and saying things in order to honor others is commendable, but it will lead to burnout and eventually, bitterness. It’s impossible to please both God and others, and at times, you’ll be misunderstood.
Instead of striving to earn others’ approval, live with a servant’s heart because it is your joy to do so; let it not be out of fear. Never let people bully you into service or force your obedience. Respect yourself, by letting others know how you feel in an honoring way. As you grow in your identity as the bride of Christ, you’ll gain confidence in what you are, or are not, called to do.
Father I seek to honor you in all I do. If there is any area of my life where I am led by wrong motives, reveal it to me. Help me to never trade your approval for the approval of other people. As I grow and mature, teach me how to carry myself with honor and respect both for myself and others. Let peace and wisdom guide my every decision.
January 20
The Garden of Our Heart
My angry brothers quarreled with me
and appointed me guardian of their ministry vineyards,
yet I’ve not tended my vineyard within.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:6
Nothing matters more to Jesus than the condition of your heart. Your life is a vineyard; a precious garden where He meets with you to share secrets, stories, and love. Garden walks—these moments of devotion, worship, prayer, and simply resting in His presence—aren’t only enjoyable, but they’re a vital part of your relationship with the Lord. Taking care of your vineyard means nurturing your personal communion with God.
Weeds of sin, distraction, busyness, and lukewarm affection can quickly overtake the garden of your soul. Tend the fires of passion that burn within and never let them grow dim. When you feel the gentle tug of the Holy Spirit, don’t ignore it. Delight in the Lord and nourish and protect your relationship with Him. Nothing is more beautiful than spending time with Him!
Jesus, meet with me in our secret garden. I turn my heart to you. Speak to me, lead me, hold me, and laugh with me. Throughout my day, let my thoughts continually land on you. Help me to keep my heart soft and pliable in your hands, so you can mold me into the person you have called me to be. I want to break away from everything that hinders my relationship with you.
January 21
Listen
Won’t you tell me, Lover of my soul,
where do you feed your flock?
—SONG OF SONGS 1:7
Quiet your soul and listen. Turn from everything else and lean into Him. Release your concerns, put down your list of prayers, and don’t say a word. Simply be.
You were created to hear God. He’s always speaking, yet often in unexpected ways. A deep sense of peace when you’ve been heavy and burdened. A sudden burst of joy, for no reason at all. An image that flashes across your mind. A moment of clarity about a situation that has left you stumped. The art of listening takes practice, especially when your mind is used to being in control. If you aren’t used to waiting on the Lord and listening for His voice, the important thing is not to give up. Come into His presence with expectancy and listen to what He will say. He longs to speak to you.
Father, I come into your presence today, having so much I could pray about, but instead, I simply want to be with you and to listen. Speak to me. Share what’s on your heart. Let me encounter new realms of your glory and love as I wait upon you.
January 22
Satisfy
Won’t you tell me, Lover of my soul,
where do you feed your flock?
—SONG OF SONGS 1:7
Nothing will satisfy the hungry heart like Jesus. Conferences, worship services, and prayer gatherings all have their place, but only He can give us what we need. Others have fed us from the overflow of what they receive from the Lord, but until we reach out to Him for ourselves, we will never truly be satisfied.
Within all of us is a yearning desire—a deep hunger to know Him. He alone is the Bread of Life who gives us Rivers of Living Water. That’s why learning about Him is never enough. Filling your brain with facts will never satisfy. You must continually feast upon the Lord and partake of the food He offers. Reach out today and receive all that you need from the heart of God. He’s waiting for you.
Lord, my heart cries out for you and you alone. I’ve enjoyed eating from the hands of others, but I want to eat with you at your banqueting table. I want to feast upon your love and satisfy the true longing of my soul. Fill me, so I will be able to feed others. Everything I’ve ever needed, I will find in you.
January 23
Shepherd
Where do you lead your beloved one
to rest in the heat of the day?
—SONG OF SONGS 1:7
Jesus is our Great Shepherd, Best Friend, and faithful King. He has our best interests at heart and desires to lead us on a beautiful journey. He is the path of wisdom and knows the best and safest route. He knows when we’re tired and need to rest and when we must push through to overcome.
Life is filled with hills and valleys. Sometimes, despite our best intentions, it feels as if we’ve lost our way. Disappointments and failures thrust out their claws to trip us, but Jesus is there to catch us. During the darkest, most painful times, He is there.
God wants you to succeed. He’s cheering you on. Go and explore the path that leads to your purpose. He’s watching, and when your heart is toward Him, He will never let you wander too far.
Lord, sometimes it feels as if I’ve aimlessly wandered in the wilderness. My feet are tired, and my faith seems weak. I release my disappointments, fears, and failures to you. I don’t want to go my own way—I want you to lead me. You will bless me, provide for me, and open doors that no one else can. You are the Good Shepherd. I trust you.
January 24
Unveiled
For I wish to be wrapped all around you,
as I go among the flocks of your under-shepherds.
It is you I long for, with no veil between us!
—SONG OF SONGS 1:7
One touch of His presence, one encounter with His love, and we are never the same. Unexpectedly, our entire lives change, and we begin to yearn for His nearness. The Lord makes Himself so real that we become obsessed with knowing Him more. We are undone by this love that is stronger than death. Nothing on earth can compare.
You weren’t created to live a spiritually dull existence. You were designed by God to enjoy Him, hear His voice, and see His face. The veil of separation was torn when Jesus died on the cross. He paid a great price so that nothing could ever separate you from Him. He is as close to you as the air you breathe.
Lord, the way that you love me leaves me totally undone. Nothing matters more than getting to know you and becoming all that you’ve created me to be. Come unveil my heart, that I may see and hear you more clearly. I want nothing to hinder me from having a more meaningful relationship with you. Love has been awakened within me, and I will never be the same!
January 25
Radiant
The Shepherd-King
Listen, my radiant one—
if you ever lose sight of me
just follow in my footsteps where I lead my lovers.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:8
Every part of you is beautiful to Jesus. Right now, no matter how you look in the mirror, regardless of what you’ve done or haven’t’ done, He calls you radiant. When He looks at you, He sees your beauty, inside and out. He didn’t make a mistake when He bled and died on the cross for you, and He didn’t make a mistake when He chose you to be His bride. You are not a disappointment to Him. He is thrilled with you!
Jesus is wooing your heart—beckoning you to come closer as He drenches you with affirming words of sacred love. He will remind you of your beauty, over and over, until you believe it. You are His. He loves you. He believes in you. You are worth the price of love. You are His beautiful bride. You are royalty. This is your identity.
Jesus, your mercy and love have washed me and made me beautiful. I am yours. My life has been transformed. I will position myself before you with humble confidence and learn to see myself the way you see me. I want to be all that you say I am. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for your love.
January 26
Closer
The Shepherd-King
Listen, my radiant one—
if you ever lose sight of me
just follow in my footsteps where I lead my lovers.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:8
Everyone goes through occasions when God feels distant. Sometimes life distracts us and we allow our hearts to be drawn away by the whirlwinds of busyness and stress. Our prayers become dry, reading His Word feels like a chore, and it seems His voice is silent. But right there, on the flip side of this wilderness and only a breath away, is the manifest presence of God.
If you’ve lost sight of Him, reach out again. Allow Him to embrace you. Even if you don’t sense it at first, you will. Still your thoughts and begin to remember what His touch was like. Once you’ve been in His presence, you already know the way. If you’ve never encountered the profound love of God, ask Him to come near and pour it out. Sing your songs of worship. Let words of praise and gratefulness catapult you right into His love. He is waiting.
Father, I don’t want the seasons of hardship and distraction to guide my future. Come meet with me. Lead me by the hand into glorious encounters. Crash upon my heart like a waterfall. Soak every dry place. Whisper words of love that awaken my spirit. I turn my spirit and soul to you.
January 27
Embracing Vulnerability
Come with your burdens and cares.
Come to the place near the sanctuary of my shepherds—
there you will find me.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:8
Come with your burdens and cares and lay them at His feet. No trauma is too hard for Him to heal. No memory is so deep that He cannot reach into it and remove the sting. His love and power are unstoppable.
Part of healing the wounds of the past is to become vulnerable with others. God never asks you to wear a mask and pretend that everything is okay when it isn’t. God created you with emotions, and those emotions should lead you into freedom, not keep you locked up in pain. Sometimes processing emotions with the Lord in private is enough to set you free. However, sometimes it takes someone you trust, to help walk you through to victory. If you don’t have someone you trust, ask Him to bring the right person across your path, and He will.
Father, I want nothing to hinder our relationship—no wrong thought patterns, unhealthy reactions, or walls to keep you or others at a distance. I open my heart to you. Bring wholeness in my life. Every painful memory and trauma, anything that makes me react in a negative way, I bring it all to you. If you want to work through others to help me, I trust you to bring the right person. I’m excited to walk into freedom with you!
January 28
Affirming Love
My dearest one …
Let me tell you how I see you—
you are so thrilling to me.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:9
Nothing unlocks your soul like the revelation of His love. It goes beyond understanding, beyond your performance. It is rooted in what He has done for you, not what you can do for Him. This love is unchanging, never ending, and completely undeserved.
His words of love and affirmation are divine kisses upon your heart. They will sustain you in the wilderness and breathe life into your weary soul. They will captivate you and make you come alive. You are His darling, His favorite one—the one He’s called to His side. Let this love grip you. Yield to it completely, and you will be transformed. Every desire, every dream, even your thoughts, words, and actions, will effortlessly begin to reflect His heart. Everything about you and your life will fall beautifully into place when you begin to see yourself the way He sees you.
Jesus, I love to hear how much you love me. The way you care for me has unlocked my soul. I lack nothing because your love sustains me. My heart is drawn to yours with yearnings so deep I can scarcely voice them. Though I’m not worthy of such affection, you lavish it upon me like flowing oil. Please, never stop.
January 29
Uncovered
My dearest one …
Let me tell you how I see you—
you are so thrilling to me.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:9
Quiet your soul and be still. The Lord is gazing upon you with unrelenting passion and perfect understanding. He sees you—even the deepest thoughts and intents of your heart. Nothing is hidden. He sees it all and still calls you beautiful.
If you’re used to coming to the Lord in prayer, always talking and never listening, you’re missing out on a most glorious conversation. Cultivate the art of listening. Let Him tell you how He sees you—it’s the healing balm for your soul. Let Him into every crevice and never be afraid of His soothing, searching gaze. You don’t need to impress Him with your knowledge, fancy prayers, or memory verses. You cannot cover your sin or imperfections from His sight. Instead, you can invite Him to enflame your heart with a holy passion that will burn away every impurity.
Lord, fill me with the wonder of your love. Let me discover the beauty of your emotions for me that cannot be ignored. I adore you, and as I look into your eyes, I know you feel the same. Countless times, in a myriad of ways, you reach for me with invisible love that is more tangible than any human substance.
January 30
Thrilling
My dearest one …
Let me tell you how I see you—
you are so thrilling to me.
—SONG OF SONGS 1:9
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