“He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. My beloved is mine, and I am his…” (Song of Songs 2:4, 16a)
During a trip to western Europe one of several countries my husband and I visited was Belgium. We walked along the cobbled streets wandering in and out of the many quaint shops. One that particularly caught my attention had a display window filled with beautiful lace parasols. After spending a considerable amount of time trying to decide which parasol to purchase, I changed my mind in favor of what I would actually use, leaving the shop with several beautiful lace-edged handkerchiefs.
Long after returning to the states I was reminded of those pretty parasols while driving and pouring out my heart to God. “I feel so uncovered,” I cried. “Marriage is challenging and I expect more.” I pictured my husband’s “covering” of me as an umbrella blown inside out by contrary winds, and those silver spokes sticking out where fabric should be.
The Lord listened to my lament and then lovingly reminded me of the parasols. Those parasols are made of lace—filled with “holes” by design. It’s what makes them beautiful. The differing shapes, sizes, and patterns are what make each one unique. Parasols serve their purpose in providing the user with shade from the harsh sun. Overarching your husband’s love and care of you is My love and care. You’re never uncovered, unloved, or unattended.
I dried my tears, pondering the words the Lord spoke to my spirit from an old Sunday school song: “I am my Beloved’s and He is mine, His banner over me is love.” Overarching Paul’s love for me is God’s love. “I am my Beloved’s and He is mine, His banner over me is love.” I am never uncovered. “I am my Beloved’s and He is mine, His banner over me is love. His banner over me is love.”
God promised to supply my every need. “He sits me at His banqueting table, His banner over me is love.” God provides a table for His beloved children in the presence of our enemies. “He sits me at His banqueting table, His banner over me is love.” He anoints my head with oil. My cup overflows. “He sits me at His banqueting table, His banner over me is love. His banner over me is love.”
The words to that children’s song fill my heart and lift my spirits. We belong to the Lord. He covers us with His love. He provides for His own, not sparingly but lavishly—a banquet. God is in no rush. He spares no expense. At the cost of His beloved Son, God purchased us and provides for us. Whenever we expect someone else to do what only God can do, they will never be enough. Therefore, do not leave the umbrella of love, safety, and security that can only be found in Him. Don’t move, God’s got you covered.