It Starts Small

⁵ Sustain me with raisins;
refresh me with apricots,
for I am lovesick.

Songs 2:5

In this passionate moment, the bride reveals a profound and fervent ache: “I am lovesick.” This is not a sickness born of despair but of an insatiable desire that courses through her veins. Her heart yearns for intimacy, for the intoxicating presence of her Beloved. There is no shame in her vulnerability; she fearlessly brings forth her hunger, boldly pleading to be nourished and revitalized. The plea for “raisins and apricots” transcends mere sustenance, representing a deep craving for fulfillment, both bodily and spiritually. She knows precisely where her strength originates. Rather than fleeing from her fervent longing, she passionately beckons the Beloved to enter into her yearning. This is a vivid portrayal of genuine dependence; instead of masking her exhaustion, she lays it bare before the One who can restore her radiant spirit.

¹⁰ The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
the righteous run to it and are protected.

Proverbs 18:10

Proverbs unveils a striking image: God’s name stands as a mighty tower! In the depths of our emotional storms, when love or life feels utterly overwhelming, the safest refuge is found in Him. His name, His character, His very presence is a sacred shelter. Not a mere tower to ascend, but a sanctuary to flee into and find rest. Theologically, this day stirs our hearts, highlighting the exquisite beauty of spiritual longing. Desire is not a sin—it can guide us deeper into God’s magnificent heart. The bride’s yearning is not a sign of wavering faith; rather, it boldly asserts it. She knows that nothing but Him can fill her soul’s longing. Her spirit reaches out for the One who alone can quench her deepest thirst!

Psychologically, expressing our deepest needs is not just important; it is vital for our mental and emotional well-being. Far too many individuals are conditioned to silence or suppress their yearnings, burdened by shame. Yet, true emotional health flourishes when we embrace our inner hunger and boldly articulate it in a nurturing environment. Neuroscience robustly affirms this truth; vocalizing our emotions and needs—even in the sacred act of prayer—ignites our prefrontal cortex, empowering us to regulate anxiety and navigate pain. This courageous “confession” of our needs invites a wave of comfort and clarity into our lives. In the loving embrace of Christ, our nervous system calms, and our souls anchor themselves in profound peace.

If you find yourself yearning—aching, even—for more of God, understand this: your hunger is sacred. You are not too much for Him. Your lovesickness is not a flaw; it is a divine invitation to a deeper communion. Bring your longing into His presence and let Him satisfy it with boundless joy.

Journal Prompt:

• What have you been deeply longing for lately?
• Are you bringing that ache to God – or trying to fix or fill it elsewhere?

Practical Steps and Application

1. Make a journal entry beginning with “Lord, I am lovesick for…”
2. Read Proverbs 18:10 outloud and visualize yourself running to Hs tower. Visualize being within the safety of His tower. How does this challenge your perception of God and yourself?
3. Ask God for one tangible way to refresh you today – then make space to receive it.

Deeper Introspection:

¹⁰ The name of the Lord is a strong tower;
the righteous run to it and are protected.

Proverbs 18:10

Here are several journal prompts for Proverbs 18:10, along with related scriptural references for deeper reflection.

Prompts on the nature of God’s name

The LORD—the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in faithful love and truth, maintaining faithful love to a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, rebellion, and sin.

Exodus 34:6-7

“Trust in the LORD forever, because in the LORD God you have an everlasting rock!”

Isaiah 26:4

• Prompt: The verse says, “The name of the LORD is a strong tower.” What does the “name of the LORD” mean to you? How does thinking about God’s character and attributes—such as His power, mercy, and faithfulness—make His name a source of security for you?
  • Related Scripture: Exodus 34:6–7
• Prompt: How is the “strong tower” of God’s name different from the false security of wealth or status? (See Proverbs 18:11 for context). What false “strong towers” do you run to, and how can you intentionally redirect your trust to God’s name instead?
  • Related Scripture: Isaiah 26:4

Prompts on running to God

For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the enemy.

Psalm 61:3

God is our refuge and strength, a helper who is always found in times of trouble.

Psalm 46:1

For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

Romans 10:13

• Prompt: The verse describes the righteous actively running to God’s strong tower. What does “running” to the Lord look like in your daily life? Journal about practical ways you can make turning to God your first instinct in moments of fear, anxiety, or temptation.
  • Related Scripture: Psalm 61:3
• Prompt: What specifically makes it difficult for you to “run to” God when you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed? What mental or spiritual barriers do you need to surrender in order to fully enter His safety?
  • Related Scripture: Psalm 46:1
• Prompt: The promise of safety is for the “righteous.” What does that mean in the context of this verse? How does your righteousness in Christ (not your own actions) give you access to this safe refuge?
  • Related Scripture: Romans 10:13

Prompts on the promise of safety

Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7

 He will cover you with his feathers; you will take refuge under his wings. His faithfulness will be a protective shield.

Psalms 91:4

I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but be courageous; I have conquered the world.

John 16:33

• Prompt: What worries or fears are you currently facing? Reflect on the promise in this verse that you are “safe” when you run to the Lord. Write a prayer asking for His peace to guard your heart and mind against your specific anxieties.
  • Related Scripture: Philippians 4:6–7
• Prompt: How does knowing you have a secure place in God’s strong tower change your perspective on the storms of life? Instead of being defined by your circumstances, how can you rest in the presence of God?
  • Related Scripture: Psalm 91:4
• Prompt: The security is not the absence of trouble, but God’s presence in the midst of it. Journal about a past challenge where you experienced God’s peace despite difficult circumstances. How does that memory strengthen your confidence to run to Him now?
  • Related Scripture: John 16:33

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