Devotional thoughts on Song of Solomon 6:4-12 

By Elizabeth Matko

Despite God’s warning that we should avoid comparing ourselves to others (Galatians 6:4), we do it all the time, don’t we? Even worse, we do it to our friends, coworkers, parents, children, and our spouses. Comparisons seem harmless—even positive—if they are in our favor. However, when they highlight our inadequacies, comparisons can be devastating. 

Building Others Up

Rather than measuring ourselves and our loved ones alongside other people, we should take a page out of King Solomon’s book. He likens his beloved to the things of beauty and worth in his world. Then, instead of comparing her to other women, he simply affirms: “My dove, my Perfect One is unique.” In his eyes, she is distinctive and special—there is no one like her! He appreciates her uniqueness. 

What if we did this same thing for our loved ones? What a light we could be, if, instead of making unwholesome comparisons, we used our words to encourage and build others up at their point of need (Ephesians 4:29). 

Think About These Things

Admittedly there are rocky times when it can be a challenge to recognize and appreciate the unique qualities which make your spouse special. It seems that faults are much easier to spot! I believe this is because our enemy is out to “steal and kill and destroy” (John 10:10) God’s gift of marital and brotherly love. 

Thankfully we have in our arsenal a spiritual missile that counteracts Satan’s tactics! The battle begins in our minds. Instead of saturating our thoughts with a litany of negative comparisons, criticisms and judgments, we need to fire God’s missile—Philippians 4:8—at the enemy. 

Elizabeth Matko from Kirtland, Ohio, retired from her years of work with Alzheimer’s residents. She now travels with her husband, Dan, especially enjoying time with her two daughters and their families.