Read 1 Samuel 18:1-4 + 1 Samuel 23:15-18 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- What was formed between David and Jonathan?
- How did Jonathan encourage David?
- Who did they renew their pact before?
Reflect
In stark contrast to yesterday’s reading about David and Saul, today’s Scripture shows that Jonathan, Saul’s son, was a true friend to David. Their bond formed immediately, and it only grew deeper as their trials increased. Jonathan would have been the next king after Saul, but when he learned that God had chosen David instead, he had a choice to make.
Where Saul rejected God, Jonathan submitted to Him and even renewed his pact with David. Their friendship was marked by their mutual commitment to God and to each other. When David was fleeing from Saul, Jonathan sought him out to encourage him. We can follow this example with our relationships, especially when difficult circumstances inevitably arise. Like Jonathan, we can choose to submit ourselves to God and bring every emotion to Him.
When you experience hurt in your relationships, remember that the Lord empathizes with you. He made you for life-giving relationships like the one between Jonathan and David, but He isn’t surprised or condemning when feelings like betrayal or jealousy arise. In Him there is hope, no matter your circumstances.
Respond
Do you have a friendship or two like the one seen between Jonathan and David? If so, how do you intentionally cultivate and strengthen this kind of relationship? If not, what are some approaches you can take to foster the growth of such a relationship?