True Friend (1 Samuel 20:1-11) - Living Life 03/07/2023 Davily Devotional Bible Study

Introduction: The Power of True Friendship

Do you have a best friend? Someone who brings an automatic smile to your face? Someone who remains a friend regardless of the situation? A true friend is a rare treasure, and in today's passage, we find one of the purest and greatest examples of best friends in the Bible: David and Jonathan.

The Bond between David and Jonathan

In 1 Samuel chapter 20, we find an unlikely friendship between David, a shepherd boy, and Jonathan, the crown prince and son of King Saul. Despite their stark differences in background and social status, they formed an unbreakable bond.

Their friendship began when David defeated Goliath, and Jonathan was one of the first to recognize David's bravery and greatness. Instead of being jealous, Jonathan loved and supported David. However, their loyalty was tested when King Saul became jealous of David's popularity and tried to kill him.

Loyalty and Sacrifice: A Test of Friendship

Jonathan's loyalty to David is evident in this passage. Even though he finds it incredulous that his own father would want David dead, he stands by David's side. Together, they devise a plan to reveal Saul's true intentions. Jonathan is willing to risk his own safety and future as king to protect his friend.

This level of loyalty and sacrifice is rare in today's society. We may have many friends on social media, but how many of them would be willing to do what Jonathan did for David? This friendship was built on mutual respect, trust, and unconditional love, transcending political and social differences.

Choosing Integrity and Courage

Jonathan's decision to support David was not an easy one. He had to choose between his father, his own safety, and his friendship with David. But he chose what was right. He chose courage and integrity, knowing that this was the will of God.

We all face difficult decisions in our lives – ones that may cost us something but are right and aligned with God's will. Like David and Jonathan, we should strive to make choices that honor God, even if they are not easy or advantageous to us personally.

The Power of God's Will

Ultimately, both David and Jonathan understood that they were living out God's purpose in their lives. David did not intentionally anger the king, but he trusted in God's plan and put his life in danger. Jonathan did not want to betray his father or his bloodline, but he too chose to live according to God's will.

In light of their story, we should encourage and love one another as David and Jonathan did. And when faced with difficult decisions, let us choose what is right, knowing that it is God's desire for us. Aligning our lives with God's will requires courage and integrity, just like David and Jonathan displayed.

Conclusion: Embracing the Blessings of Friendship

As we reflect on the story of David and Jonathan, we should also consider the people God has placed in our lives – our family members, friends, and community members. Take a moment to reach out to them, appreciate them, and be a blessing to them. And most importantly, let us pray for them, thanking God for their presence in our lives.

In our own friendships, let us strive to emulate the loyalty, sacrifice, and unwavering love that David and Jonathan shared. And when faced with difficult decisions, let us have the courage and integrity to choose what is right, according to God's will.

May we all embrace the true power of friendship and live lives that honor and please our Heavenly Father.

Prayer:

Lord, we are grateful for the story of David and Jonathan, which reminds us of the importance of true friendship and living according to Your will. Help us to appreciate the people You have placed in our lives and to be a blessing to them. Give us the courage and integrity to make difficult decisions that align with Your desires. We love and thank You, Lord. In Jesus' name, amen.