Scripture References: Song of Songs 1:2-8, John 15:4-5, 1 Corinthians 15:10, Hebrews 3:15, Ephesians 3:14-19, 2 Samuel 11-12, Proverbs 4:23, Matthew 25:1-13, 1 John 1:8-9, Romans 6:11-13, 2 Corinthians 3:18.
Intro:
- Review of Song of Songs 1:2-4: initial awakening, intimacy, and ministry.
- Transition to Song of Songs 1:5-8: a season of darkness and loveliness.
- The common journey: initial zeal, followed by burnout and self-awareness of sin.
Key Points:
- Darkness and Loveliness (Song of Songs 1:5-6):
- The bride's confession: "I am very dark, but lovely."
- Acknowledging sin and failure, yet holding onto identity in Christ.
- "My mother's sons were angry with me": taking on too many ministry assignments.
- "My own vineyard I have not kept": neglecting personal intimacy with Jesus.
- Progression: neglect, burnout, emotional unrest, spiritual dullness, isolation, insulation, scandalous sin.
- David's example: neglecting God's call leading to sin and tragedy (2 Samuel 11-12).
- Guarding the Heart (Proverbs 4:23):
- The importance of protecting our hearts from sin and distraction.
- Practical ways to guard the heart: discerning priorities, managing time, avoiding harmful influences, seeking accountability.
- The parable of the bridesmaids (Matthew 25:1-13): prioritizing intimacy (oil) over ministry (lamps).
- Repentance and Identity:
- The balance: acknowledging sin (darkness) and embracing our identity in Christ (loveliness).
- 1 John 1:8-9: the importance of confession and repentance.
- Romans 6:11-13: counting ourselves dead to sin and alive to God.
- Presenting ourselves to God: embracing our identity as beloved children.
- Seeking the Shepherd (Song of Songs 1:7-8):
- The bride's cry for help: "Tell me, you whom my soul loves."
- Seeking rest and nourishment from Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
- Jesus' gentle response: "If you do not know, O most beautiful of women."
- Practical instruction: follow the flock (Scripture and community) and pasture the young goats (fulfill responsibilities).
- Importance of submission to godly leaders.
- Affirmation and Prophecy:
- Jesus' affirmation: "You are lovely."
- Prophesying strength and beauty: calling out the gold within us.
- God's promise of character transformation (Song of Songs 1:11).
- Transition to Romance:
- The next season: a deepening of intimacy and a renewed focus on personal relationship with Jesus.
- Finding security in God's love.
Conclusion:
- Seasons of darkness are a normal part of the journey.
- Balancing confession and identity is crucial.
- Jesus restores us through grace, practical instruction, and affirmation.
- Intimacy with Jesus leads to transformation and security.
Call to Action:
- Reflect on your own journey and identify areas of neglect.
- Guard your heart through practical disciplines and accountability.
- Embrace your identity in Christ and reject shame.
- Seek Jesus as your Shepherd and receive His gentle guidance.
- Follow His instruction: stay in the Word, community, and fulfill your responsibilities.
- Ask God for a specific prophetic word for your life.
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