Song of Solomon 2:5 Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples, for I am faint with love. [New International translation]
Summary
There are many songs referenced in the Bible. In Exodus 15:1, Moses and the people of Israel sang a song to the LORD when GOD “made a way out of no way” allowing Moses and the people to cross the Red Sea. After the LORD grants her petition and gave her a son, Samuel, Hannah dedicates the child to the LORD and sang a song of praise to the LORD. She basically sings there is NONE like HIM (See, 1Samuel 2:2). In Judges 5:1, Deborah and Barak sing praises to GOD for their victory over their enemies.
Despite the many other songs mentioned, the Song of Solomon is called “the Song of Songs” or the most excellent of all songs. (See, Song of Solomon 1:1). It is a song about love. It is a song about commitment. It is a song about a union. Although the verses speak of the deep passionate love of a bridegroom for his bride and the equally passionate love for the bride for her bridegroom, the “larger” interpretation of the “Song of Songs,” is that the verses are an allegory for the deep loving and joyful communion that THE SON, JESUS CHRIST, has for HIS bride, the church.
It is a song about the wonders of marital love and HOLY LOVE.
Benefits of Eating Apples
Approximately 250 years ago in Poor Richard’s Almanac, Benjamin Franklin, coined the phrase “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Benjamin Franklin, American statesman, inventor and publisher, published Poor Richard’s Almanac from approximately 1732 to 1758. It was a popular journal during its time. The journal included weather forecasts, practical household hints, games and puzzles and home remedies. See, www.wikipedia.com. Over the years researchers have confirmed the wisdom of Benjamin Franklin’s advice about the health benefits of eating apples.
“5 Health Benefits of Apples,” www.medicaldaily.com/5-health-benefits-eating-apples-427297 cites 5 reasons why apples are beneficial to good health:
- Better Oral Hygiene
Apples are considered an Alkaline food. [Eating high Alkaline foods means that you are eating foods that help prevent your blood from becoming too acidic, promoting health. The body has a pH balance, which basically measures the acidity in the blood. The ideal pH for blood is around 7.35, which is neutral. Most fruits and vegetables are alkaline, providing more energy and preventing the blood from becoming too acidic.] Apples also increase the production of saliva, which helps to eliminate bacteria and food particles. This also helps reduce bad breath. - Boost for the Brain
Apples are a source of the antioxidant quercetin. Quercetin is a chemical found naturally in many plants and foods, such as berries, green tea, onions and apples. A medium apple may contain up to 10 milligrams of quercetin, which is considered a significant dose. According to research from Cornell University, quercetin is believed to have a protective effect on brain cells. A 2015 study suggested a link between apple juice and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. However, it is better to consume the whole apple because most the quercetin comes from the apple skin. - Healthier Weight
Apples are a good food to help fight obesity. They are high in fiber and generally good for the gut, promoting good gut bacteria. This helps to prevent metabolic disorders associated with obesity and chronic inflammation which can lead to diabetes. - Good for the Heart
Researchers found that apples could reduce the number of heart disease risk factors. They help maintain lower cholesterol levels and help in lowering blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. - High Bone Density
Apples have a beneficial effect on bone density and bone strength. This can help protect against osteoporosis, which can cause deterioration of the bone, resulting in an increased risk of fractures.
See, “5 Health Benefits of Apples,” September 4, 2018, www.medicaldaily.com/5-health-benefits-eating-apples-427297
FOOD and SONGS
In the 1990s a Gospel singing group called The Winans wrote: “Everything You Touch Is A Song.” Today, what foods will you touch? What lives will you touch? What songs will you create? How has GOD touched you? What song can you sing to the LORD?
Today, pray for GOD’s HOLY LOVE.
Pray, eat wisely and BE BLESSED!
