Page 141 - Radical Love by Linda Robinson

RADICAL LOVE

tossing and turning on her bed in travail. Travail is prayer. She has

obviously felt His departure deeply and has been praying fervently for
Him to return to her. This whole scenario has, of course, been

orchestrated by the Bridegroom-King Himself. Even when we do not
feel or perceive God’s presence, He is still there (see Psalm 139:7–11;

Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5).

What the Shulamite is perceiving as a season of dryness is, in fact, the
Lord at work in her—to birth increased desire and passion for Himself.

In verse 2, we see her dogged determination to find Him again. She
goes out looking, and verse 3 refers to her enquiring of the leaders

(overseers) of the local fellowships in her vicinity. She asks them if
they have found Him, but before they answer, the Lord appears.

There are times when the Lord desires that we seek Him for ourselves,

rather than relying on others, as they may not have the answers we
need. The Lord tells us that when we seek Him with all our hearts, He

will not disappoint (see Matthew 7:7–8). He sees her earnest sincerity
of heart and returns to her. How beautiful to read of her joy at this

renewed love encounter.

The Shulamite is beginning to realise that life in fellowship with Jesus
far surpasses the cost involved. She is now able to declare in verse 4:

“I found the one I adore! I caught Him and fastened myself to Him,
refusing to be feeble in my heart again.”

127