4-7 But my lover wouldn’t take no for an answer,
    and the longer he knocked, the more excited I became.
I got up to open the door to my lover,
    sweetly ready to receive him,
Desiring and expectant
    as I turned the door handle.
But when I opened the door he was gone.
    My loved one had tired of waiting and left.
And I died inside—oh, I felt so bad!
    I ran out looking for him
But he was nowhere to be found.
    I called into the darkness—but no answer.
The night watchmen found me
    as they patrolled the streets of the city.
They slapped and beat and bruised me,
    ripping off my clothes,
These watchmen,
    who were supposed to be guarding the city.

I beg you, sisters in Jerusalem—
    if you find my lover,
Please tell him I want him,
    that I’m heartsick with love for him.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Harvest, Wheat
The Message Harvest, Wheat
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $44.99
Save: $5.00 (10%)
The Message Bible, Dusty Rose Floral Large Print Leather-Look
The Message Bible, Dusty Rose Floral Large Print Leather-Look
Retail: $59.99
Our Price: $44.99
Save: $15.00 (25%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids - eBook
My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids - eBook
Retail: $18.99
Our Price: $9.99
Save: $9.00 (47%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Daily Message: Through the Bible in One Year - eBook
The Daily Message: Through the Bible in One Year - eBook
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $14.71
Save: $10.28 (41%)
5.0 of 5.0 stars
Message REMIX 2.0, Hardcover
Message REMIX 2.0, Hardcover
Retail: $29.99
Our Price: $23.99
Save: $6.00 (20%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars