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Millard Kinnison on April 6, 2024

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Together in Christ: 'Affirmation and Presence' — Song of Solomon 2:14

Saturday, April 6, 2024

My dove is hiding behind the rocks, behind an outcrop on the cliff. Let me see your face; let me hear your voice. For your voice is pleasant, and your face is lovely.

— Song of Solomon 2:14 NLT

Key Thought

Words of tender affirmation and compliment are crucial in all loving relationships. Unfortunately, the old saying is all too true in many relationships: "I told you once that I love you, and if I change my mind, I'll let you know." The truth is, we all need to be told regularly that we are loved and claimed and that we bring those we love joy.

If God the Father knew that Jesus, His Son, needed this kind of affirmation at His baptism before He faced His trials and temptations, we need it, too. We shouldn't be surprised that God told Jesus: "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy." [1] In his temptation of Jesus, Satan showed the importance of these words of affirmation from the Father to the Son. The first recorded words of temptation from the evil one were, "If you are the Son of God..." [2] We must affirm those we love.

In addition, we must learn to appreciate and affirm the beauty of the personal presence of family and friends who stand by us through the storms of life. Theirs is a remarkable beauty that only faithful friends and loved ones have. This kind of beauty goes much deeper than mere physical appearance. Their voice is reassuring. Their presence gladdens our hearts. Finding them nearby when we are struggling is such a relief. So, let's make sure these faithful friends and loved ones know how beautiful, pleasant, and lovely they are to us!

[1] Luke 3:22.

[2] Luke 4:3.

TODAY'S PRAYER

Father, thank You for the friends who stick close to me as I face the challenges and hardships in life. Thank You for their presence in those times of joy and victory. Holy Spirit, I ask that You nudge me and remind me to thank them, affirm them, and let them know how precious and beautiful they are to me. In Jesus' name, I make this request and offer my thanks. Amen.