Song of Songs 3: Love Is Patient

For more context before you begin studying, read this introduction to the book of Song of Songs.

One of the many flaws in the Playboy approach to sex is that it makes people into things. Playboy magazine and all its derivatives are nothing more than a form of idolatry. No other aspect of the person, other than his or her body, is of any interest. This is a tragic distortion of God's good creation. True love requires time—and hard work. It may even include times of searching and insecurity.

Warming Up to God

Perhaps you have recently used someone you love to satisfy your desires without considering the other person. Quietly consider this before God. Confess your sin to him. Wait for his forgiveness.

Read Song of Songs 3

Discovering the Word

• What shift in tone do you notice in chapter 3?
• Verses 1-3 describe some of the insecurities that love can bring. What is it about love that can make us feel this way?
• Describe the reunion in verse 4.
• "Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires" (v. 5) is repeated from 2:7. What wisdom do you see in this saying?
• Verses 6-11 are from the perspective of the friends. How do they describe the wedding procession?

Applying the Word

• When are you likely to feel insecure about those you love?
• The wedding procession in this passage is a time of publicly declaring love before others. What experience in your life confirmed the love someone (that is, the romantic love of a spouse or the love of a friend or family member) has for you?

Responding in Prayer

Ask God to help you better show your love to those you care about.