April 14, 2020
Then Jonathan said to David, “whatever you say, I will do for you.” (1 Samuel 20:4)
It is a rare and precious gift to have a deep friend in this life, but there are few things more valuable. Blessed is the man or woman who has a friend like Jonathan.
Jonathan and David were such friends to each other. Jonathan, King Saul’s son and heir to his father’s throne and David, the shepherd-warrior who had served Saul faithfully enjoyed great friendship. This friendship was tested and found true when Saul became jealous of David and sought to kill him. But Jonathan protected David more than once. the reason is found in 1 Samuel 20:
Jonathan made David vow again because of his love for him, because he loved his as he loved his own life. (1 Samuel 20:17)
The heart of this friendship was genuine love. It was a manly and godly love that led them to protect each other. David’s name was safe in Jonathan’s mouth. Even though Jonathan knew that David’s ascension meant the loss of his own position on the throne, Jonathan still preserved his life.
Real friendship means that I protect my friend, regardless of the loss to me. Happy is the man who has such friends in this life. And, wonderful the man who comes to know the perfect Friend, Jesus Christ, who always “sticks closer than a brother.”
Father, make me a friend like Jonathan to others. Make me faithful so that my friends can always trust me to protect and provide for them with my life. And by your grace, give me some friendships like this. Thank You for Your friendship—for the intimacy with Your Son and the indwelling of the Spirit who will never leave me nor forsake me. Thank You that my life is safe in Your hands.
March 11, 2025
God knows what He is about. Always include in your request the greatest prayer—the prayer of surrender. “Lord, Your will be done.” This is the prayer, when humbly prayed, that will always be answered and yield the most valuable result from the God who loves us best ... even if the answer is hard.
March 05, 2025
Every created man or woman must make their choice. What will you do with God? Will you embrace or reject Him? Draw near or run away? Trust and serve Him or doubt God and serve yourself? This foundational choice determines everything.
March 04, 2025
As you evaluate your faith, is it “God and?” God and others. God and the world’s ideas. God and my best thoughts thrown in. God and some money. God and a clear path. Or simply: God. Are you vainly clinging to the idea that you need more than Him?
