1 Samuel 23:17(KJV)
And he said unto him, Fear not: for the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my father knoweth.
The friendship that existed between David and Jonathan is a beautiful example of a true friend. Despite the many hardships both men faced, they remained faithful to one another as friends and protected one another from harm. Jonathan even risked his life interceding for David before king Saul, who sought to kill David. Their friendship was more potent than the relationship both had with any of their own siblings. Throughout their relationship, Jonathan showed the hallmarks of a true friend and brother, regarding David as more important than himself and seeking to put David’s interest ahead of his own. Jonathan was willing to sacrifice his advancement and promote David instead. The friendship between David and Jonathan is an instructive lesson for all of us. Despite the vast difference in their social status, Jonathan went all out to support his friend. Jonathan wanted the will of God to come to pass in the life of David, and he cooperated radiantly with him. He did not mind his father’s reaction even when he knew David’s enthronement would jeopardize his chances of becoming a king in Israel.
Real friendships are a gift from God because they exemplify the perfect Friend who remains loyal through the good, the bad, and the ugly days. In our anchored Scripture, there are five points or words of comfort Jonathan encouraged his friend with; “Fear not”- although Saul is relentlessly pursuing you, intent on killing you, God is delivering you daily, and He will continue to protect you. “My father shall not find thee”- though you are being sorely tried and pursued, God will give you all the wisdom to escape my father; you are safe. “Thou shalt be king over Israel”- since the LORD anointed you, and all Israel love you and want you, it is only a matter of time until you reign as king. “I shall be next unto thee”- be patient, for when you reign, I will continue to be your loyal supporter under you. Jonathan learned that being loyal to David and trusting God was far better than being next in line for the place of his father’s ruined life and throne. “Saul, my father knows these things”- God’s will is sure to come to pass, and although my father is fighting against you, he knows you will replace him. When our words are true, kind, and encouraging, they are uplifting, comforting, and strengthening in the LORD; they are beautiful to the heart and soul. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” In Jonathan, we find the ideal characteristics of friendship, devoid of hypocrisy, selfishness, tribal or fraternal biases, not blinded by jealousy, excessive ambition, and self-gratification. It is written in Proverbs 18:24, “……………. a real friend sticks closer than a brother.”
Beloved, watch who you call your friend today because a true friend will always enter your experience and encourage you. They will not abandon you when circumstances change or turn their backs when you are in need. He or she is not envious of your elevation and promotion from God but will stand alongside you in all things. The genuine or authentic friend sticks closer than a brother and can be counted on, steady, and trustworthy. A famous saying goes, “Show me your friend, and I will show you your character.” Choose your friends wisely, for not everyone you can call a friend. Friendship is not for socialization or fun but for your future. The voice you hear determines your place in life; for example, when King Rehoboam took the counsel of the young men he grew up with, it cost him his throne (1 Kings 12). The influence around your life determines your future and how far you go. Anybody whose conviction is opposite your own is not a true friend; stay away from them. Run away from anyone who is always encouraging you to violate your principles. Be a dependable friend; truthful, loyal, and selfless. Guard your tongue from hurting others by choosing your words carefully and speaking wisely. In other words, cultivate the habit of apologizing, owning up when you are wrong, be quick to hear and slow to speak.
O Lord, thank You for Your word. Help me choose my friends wisely in Jesus’ Name.