Divine Design, Part Two
Pursuit, Protection, and Wisdom in Love: Lessons from Song of Solomon
The Song of Solomon is part of the Bible’s wisdom literature, alongside Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. Written as poetic dialogue between a husband and wife, it offers timeless insight into love, marriage, desire, and commitment. While it isn’t a step-by-step blueprint for relationships, it gives us powerful “breadcrumbs” of wisdom we can apply to dating, marriage, and family life today.
One of the clearest themes in the opening chapter is pursuit. The bride’s words, “Draw me after you,” reveal a deep desire to be intentionally loved. Women want to feel pursued—seen, valued, chosen. For husbands, that means pursuit cannot end at the altar. Marriage is not the finish line; it’s the starting point of a lifelong commitment to date, cherish, and prioritize your wife. And importantly, pursuit is not pressure. Marriage is a covenant, not a contract. It’s not about bargaining or trading favors—it’s about self-giving love.
The text also highlights the importance of community. The bride’s friends celebrate her relationship, reminding us that healthy marriages are supported by healthy networks. Scripture teaches that “in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Good character welcomes witnesses. Strong marriages invite wise voices, not secrecy or isolation. Surrounding yourself with godly counsel—and refusing to publicly criticize your spouse—creates protection and accountability.
Another major theme is guarding against “little foxes.” In ancient vineyards, small foxes could nibble at roots and destroy an entire harvest. Likewise, small compromises—flirtations, crude joking, wandering eyes, emotional secrecy—can quietly erode trust and intimacy. Nothing damages a marriage more quickly than misplaced attention. Jesus’ strong words about cutting off sources of temptation remind us that protecting our covenant is worth decisive action.
Song of Solomon also affirms God’s design in marriage. The husband praises his bride, calling her a lily among thorns—speaking directly into her insecurities with affirmation instead of criticism. Women often reveal their vulnerabilities when they feel safe; a husband’s role is to protect, strengthen, and build up in those tender places. Words have the power to wound deeply—but they also have the power to heal and secure.
Provision is another biblical theme woven through the text. From Genesis onward, men are called to work, build, and care for their families. This isn’t about ego or status—it’s about reflecting the heart of our Creator. Providing, serving, and putting family first demonstrates the character of a faithful Father in heaven. A man who prioritizes his family over himself displays true strength.
Finally, Song of Solomon teaches that passion belongs inside covenant. Culture says, “If you feel it, follow it.” Scripture says, “If it’s holy, guard it.” Love and desire are gifts from God, but they flourish best within the safety of lifelong commitment—one man, one woman, one covenant, one lifetime.
In the end, wisdom in relationships comes down to this: you will feel things you should not follow. Mature love recognizes that not every desire deserves obedience. Protect what is sacred. Pursue your spouse. Guard your covenant. And build a love story that reflects the wisdom and faithfulness of God.
