By: Paula Short
"After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king's son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David. From that day on Saul kept David with him and wouldn't let him return home. And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt." – 1 Samuel 18:1-4— NLT (symbolically transferring to David his right to ascend the throne.)
Jonathan and David were the best of friends. Jonathan was King Saul's son, but he also loved David. Jonathan must have heard the rumors about David and how he was selected to be the future king of Israel.
It was a position that Jonathan may have looked forward to one-day holding. Perhaps he'd even imagined as a young boy what it would be like to be king over a great nation that God had richly blessed.
You see, Jonathan was the prince of Israel and came to know that David, and not he, would be the next king. But that did not weaken his love for David. Jonathan would much rather lose the throne than his closest friend.
And he never showed any animosity toward David over this. He welcomed his friend as the future king without letting his ego get in the way.
It can be hard when someone else is advanced in your place. Maybe your co-worker got the raise you wanted, or a friend was publicly commended for an idea you came up with.
You see, friend, when David and Jonathan met, they became fast friends. Did you know their friendship is one of the deepest and closest recorded in the Bible?
Their friendship was simply this.
—They based their friendship on a commitment to God, not just each other.
— They let nothing come between them, not even career or family problems.
— They drew closer together when their friendship was tested.
— They remained friends to the end.
Join me in trying to be like Jonathan and not become focused on what you think should have been yours. Alternatively, seek to love your friend or co-worker and provide them with what they need to serve God wholeheartedly.
Reflection
Have you ever had a friendship like Jonathan and David?
What do you look for in a friend?
I've had a lot of friends throughout life, I've been a friend/best friend to many but since becoming born again I can't say I've made any real close good friendships. I would love to have more godly friendships. It's a blessing.
ReplyDeleteAlso Great read. I agree. I eecently met a lady who waa droooing a friend over $20. Don't let foolosh things ruin food friendships.
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