Possessed and Possessing

Possessed and Possessing

I am my beloved’s, And my beloved is mine. He feeds his flock among the lilies.

Song of Solomon 6:3

Our relationship with Christ should above all be one of deep and satisfying love.  The whole of the book of Canticles sets forth the glories of that love relationship between Christ and His Church.  It is entirely appropriate for us to understand this love as being personally directed to us.  Our text for today explores the mutuality of this love relationship.  It is, according to this verse, one of mutual possession and deep satisfaction.  The Bride declares, “I am my beloved’s.”  Christ possesses us, and that for several excellent reasons.  He possesses us by virtue of His Father’s electing purpose.  ‘Chosen’ we were,’ in Him, before the foundation of the world.’  There is, as well, the matter of the security of His possession of us because of His Father’s unalterable promise.  Christ’s people ‘shall be willing in the day of (his) power.’  Integral to Christ’s possession of us is His sacrificial purchase, which was made ‘with His own blood.’  That purchase, the Holy Spirit makes practically applicable to us by His regenerating power and effectual calling.  We could be no more thoroughly possessed by Christ than we are by His grace.

Having said that, we also possess Christ.  Because of grace we may also say, ‘My beloved is mine.’  Ours is an indissoluble Union, for ‘who shall separate us from the love of Christ?’  Our possession stands firm in the eternal covenant of grace.  Moreover, Christ’s Holy Spirit makes our possession of the Savior a practical daily experience.  We hear His voice, know His presence, follow His leadership, and commune with Him all by faith.  Beyond this, we have the assurance in His Word and in our hearts that we shall continue in this relationship of possessing and being possessed forever.  ‘So shall we ever be with the Lord.’

Our Gracious master, and Our God,

Consume our whole souls with Your Beauty and Grace.

Occupy our attention continually with You, and You Alone.

Where the Bush is Burning

Tomm Tice