The power of friendship
1 Samuel 20:4 Jonathan said to David, “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do for you.” NIV Bible
Extra Reading: 1 Samuel 20: 1-29
A friend of mine sent me a new tie and a set of handkerchiefs as my birthday gift last February. I thought to myself, “Well, there are still a few people who love me in this world.” All of us have experienced good and bad friends at one time or the other. Good friends are those whose commitment from the heart is shown in practical, often sacrificial, care, love and service. They are a source of encouragement, sympathy, comfort and support in times of need. Such relationships are to be cultivated, especially among believers. David and Jonathan were true friends who were willing to die for one another. From this passage of Scripture we learn that Jonathan was certain that Saul, his father, will not kill David (1 Sam.20:1, 2). Jonathan’s words reflected his covenant of friendship with David (18:3). He has vowed to help David. Good friends bring support and encouragement in your life. True friends share joy and sorrow. Good friends also challenge each other to excel in good works, and offer loving rebuke (Proverbs 27:6, 9).
Bad friends influence each other negatively. They prove to be unreliable, and lead each other astray. Bad friends are inconsistent with each other. The Bible speaks of a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24). This is a good friend and they are very few. Jonathan was to David a friend who loves at all times (Proverbs 17: 17). Our Lord Jesus Christ is a true friend to us, who is willing to lay down His life for His friends, you and me (John 15:13). The Bible also states that he who loves purity will have the king as his friend (Proverbs 22: 11). Paul’s friends ministered to him (Acts 24:23). If you don’t make good friends, no one will carry your coffin at your funeral.
Abraham was called the friend of God (James 2:23). God spoke to Moses as to a friend (Exodus 33:11). Jesus said, “You are my friends if you do what I command you (John 15:14). Friendship is crucial to emotional and personal development.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach us the value of true friendship through the example of David and Jonathan. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
There are no products |
There are no products |