When I seek to list the great heroes of faith in the Bible, who lived prior to Jesus walking the earth, the following individuals come to mind: Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, and David. And yet one of the most inspiring, unsung heroes in the Bible is a guy named Jonathan.
Jonathan was the son of Saul, the first King of Israel. Jonathan’s courage in battle and loyalty to the King (his father) are recorded in the book of the Bible entitled 1 Samuel. This book of the Bible describes in detail the military conquests of Saul and Jonathan and the growing influence of a shepherd boy named David, who would later become the second king of Israel. But in the midst of the unfolding drama of Saul’s faltering leadership and David’s rise in popularity, is an inspiring story of a genuine friendship that developed between David and Jonathan.
Jonathan, the heir apparent to the throne of Israel, is not concerned about his rights or his claim to power. Instead, Jonathan recognizes that the LORD has called David to leadership in Israel, and humbly responds by seeking to be a loyal friend to the future king. A lesser man would have succumbed to jealousy or rivalry, but instead Jonathan made it his goal to support and defend David even against the jealous attacks of his father, Saul.
The following Bible verses describe the heroic, noteworthy character of Jonathan: “So Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, saying, “May the LORD destroy all your enemies!” And Jonathan made David reaffirm his vow of friendship again, for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself.” (1 Samuel 20:16-17).
The above Biblical description of Jonathan’s friendship with David both humbles me and challenges me. This example of friendship reminds me of faithful friends in my life who have selflessly given themselves to support me in spite of my shortcomings. It also challenges me to extend love, friendship and support to others not expecting to receive anything in return.
Thank God for dependable friends! Is there a faithful friend in your life that you have possibly taken for granted? Why not let them know this week you appreciate them?
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