I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys. Like a lily among thorns is my darling among the maidens. Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest is my lover among the young men. I delight to sit in his shade and his fruit is sweet to my taste. He has taken me to the banquet hall and his banner over me is love.

Song of Solomon 2:1-4

We see the banner of God being raised in different ways in both the Old and New Testaments. During the battle with the Amalikites, Moses lifted up the rod of God (God’s conquering banner): …tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands. (Exodus 17:9) As long as Moses held his arms up, the Israelites prevailed against the Amalekites. The staff of God in Moses’ hands was a symbol of the banner of God being raised over the battle. After the battle and the defeat of the enemy, Moses built an altar and called it The Lord is My Banner. (v.15)

Another time, the Israelites complained against God (Numbers 21) and the Lord sent venomous snakes among them, causing many of them to die. The people recognized that they had sinned against God and asked Moses to pray on their behalf. The Lord told Moses to lift up a bronze snake on a pole so that when the people looked at it, they would live. God raised His banner over the people, and those who obeyed lived.

We read about yet another banner in the Song of Solomon – a banner of love. The Song of Solomon is about a love relationship between two people pointing to the relationship between Christ and His bride, the church. The writer describes how his loved one is taken to the banquet hall and he places his banner of love over her. (Song of Solomon 2:4) God raised His banner of love over us when He sent His Son Jesus Christ to dwell with us. His banner of love was raised in the form of a cross and the death of His Son.

Are you aware that the banner of God is raised over your life? His banner is lifted high over the battles of your life; His banner over you is love.

Heavenly Father, Thank you that throughout all the struggles of life You are with me, raising Your mighty hand of protection and love. In Jesus’ name, Amen