Day 1 of my own 30 day challenge

When our Bible study leader recommended joining in some ongoing challenges from some of her blogging ventures, I jumped on the wagon... like my 'Peter' personality would have me to do.

Ready fire aim!.. (but this time, I may just hit the target!)

One of the challenges is to journal daily on what God says to me through daily devotions.

Let the journey begin...

This morning I read Solomon chapter 2 and right away I felt the Lord speak to me, telling me that in my valley's He is there.

"I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys. As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters." Song 2:1-2

So often when I am in the valley, (and it seems lately that I have made a little home for myself there), I realize that He is truly the 'lily among thorns'. As well-meaning as my family and brothers and sisters in Christ may be, there is no comparison to the love and care of the 'Lily of my valley".

King Solomon goes on to point out the apple tree among the other trees of the wood. He compares the "sweet to the taste" fruit of this tree to his 'beloved among sons'. It seems that the LORD is saying to me that no matter what the world has to offer, He is the 'sweetest' among all others.

Years ago, I remember being in the girls club at my church and one of the fondest and oldest memories I have is learning a scripture song to the next verse.

"He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me [was] love." Song 2:4

Although I don't recall him speaking to me at that very moment, I do remember, years later, when he did! And nothing can compare to the joy he gave me when I realized that His Banner over me is truly LOVE in its purest form.

I could certainly identify with Solomon as I continued reading in verses 5 & 6 ..
Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me.

Apples... there's that word again... !

I believe the Lord is wooing and drawing me into closer fellowship with him. In this hi-tech age, so many things distract us from quality time (sweet fruit of fellowship) with the LORD.

I need your help Lord to make the right choices. Thank you Lord for speaking to me this morning and being the Lily of my valley, Rose of Sharon and the apple tree of my life....