FRIENDSHIP: CALLED TO OPEN UP
I Samuel 18:1-9
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. 2 From that day on Saul kept David with him and wouldn’t let him return home. 3 And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. 4 Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt.
5 Whatever Saul asked David to do, David did it successfully. So Saul made him a commander over the men of war, an appointment that was welcomed by the people and Saul’s officers alike.
6 When the victorious Israelite army was returning home after David had killed the Philistine, women from all the towns of Israel came out to meet King Saul. They sang and danced for joy with tambourines and cymbals. 7 This was their song:
“Saul has killed his thousands,
and David his ten thousands!”
REFLECTION
The story of David and Jonathan is one of true friendship, loyalty, and trust. Jonathan's action in stripping off his royal armor and weapons to give to David was more than spontaneous generosity. It was a recognition of David' worth, for which Jonathan was willing to give his all, even his right to the throne.4 Jonathan was the one who helped buffer the rage, jealousy, and paranoia of his father. Their friendship reveals our own need for "safe people" who will walk with us through the trials and struggles of life, and who stick closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24). Ultimately, Christ is the Friend of sinners who paid the ultimate sacrifice for us. He is the one who is with us through every storm.
RESPONSE
1. David and Jonathan enjoyed a very loyal, trusting friendship together. Why is it often so hard for us to vulnerable and transparent with others?
2. Why do we need biblical community?
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