The Ministry of Beautification (Song 1:10)

In a discussion of differences between men and women, I once heard a comical depiction of men and a “cave” that they sometimes emotionally and mentally retreat into. There is apparently nothing in this cave, which is exactly how they like it, and  a women especially isn’t allowed, (although they try) because if she did get in, she would take one look around and begin decorating it with pictures, rugs, and curtains! :-)

Women generally do love to decorate, whether it’s their homes, their men, or themselves. I used to think it was a natural feminine trait, but I’m rethinking this, knowing more than ever that deep in the heart of the woman, i.e. the Bride of Christ, there is a desire more powerful than to decorate.  It is to be decorated.

A gift that communicates

…O my darling companion, I see you, I see you as my mare among Pharaoh’s chariots. How comely [perfectly inviting] your cheeks are, and your neck, for ornamentation! We will make for you braided garlands of gold, studded with silver.  ~Song 1:9-10

I have to admit something. I’ve been affected by the meaning of Solomon’s note to the Shulamite in vs. 8–9, including the provocative image of her being His courageous mare. But it’s here in the King’s plan of giving her beautiful things to wear that I, as a woman, am especially captivated. There’s something about a gift of jewelry that communicates being special and desirable. In fact, it’s an innate need in all of us to feel this way; and regardless of gender there are thoughtful or costly gifts given at just the right time it seems, that have a way of acknowledging we are “seen” and loved by someone. These gifts do more than just make us feel good; they also bond us to the giver!

Blank canvases

There is a striking passage in Ezekiel 16:8-13 about the “desolate woman” who the Lord finds abandoned and lying in her own blood. He causes her to live, and when it’s “her time of love,” He becomes intimate with her, makes a covenant with her, and washes her clean.  He then arrays her with clothing and jewelry.
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There is a beautiful picture to be seen here. The Cross is evidence that there is no need for any of us to win God’s love. Jesus Christ became one with us on our worst day, and it is in this condition that we were “comely” (i.e. perfectly fitted) for the robes and ornamentation of His righteousness and beauty. We don’t have to do anything for these gifts! The King is fully competent to provide for His Bride in every way, and He reminds her over and over again of this so that she can live a life of humble, joyful receiving — and from this have enough overflowing to then give.

“Decorate one another”

Pursue love and desire gifts of the Spirit, especially to prophesy. The person who speaks in tongues builds their self up, but the one who prophesies builds up the Church. (Ekklesia or body of Christ) They speak to others for strengthening, encouragement, and comfort.  – 1 Corinthians 14:1-4

Some of the readers here may know Jay Ferris, whose expression of the Father’s heart was a blessing to many. Before he departed the world he had a particularly lucid moment when he dictated a list of random phrases, many from the Song, that were in his heart to expound on. One of them I didn’t fully understand. It was, “We are all His beauticians.” Now in light of Song 1:10, “We will make for you jewelry,” it makes sense. The embellishment that is implied in the Hebrew language is intricate and many-faceted (likely filigree), and Solomon would have employed others to help him; i.e. skilled jewelry makers who had the ability to create what was in his mind to create.

Personally I can relate to being on the receiving end of this prophetic and beautifying service. In many ways I feel like a new person because of validating and life-giving words that were imparted to me in relationship. Not words about who I am or might someday be by doing more, or measuring up — but by someone looking into my heart and seeing me as Christ sees me right now. This is a gift that will last forever!

A word fitly spoken is as apples of gold in settings of silver.  Prov. 25:11

Has the Lord given you a heart to passionately love the Bride of Christ? Beyond her desolation and stigma do you feel her deep worth and value? Don’t grow weary. Continue to give what you have been given. We may be the Bride of Christ, but if we have the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, we have the heart of the Bridegroom as well.

In Love,
Pamela

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¹  1 Pet. 4:10