Part 5 Characteristics of True #Friendship


Reading:      1Samuel 18:1-4, 23:15-18
          After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father’s house. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt.
          While David was at Horesh in the Desert of Ziph, he learned that Saul had come out to take his life. And Saul’s son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be a second to you. Even my father Saul knows this.” The two of them made a covenant before the Lord.
          Proverbs 17:17
          A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born in adversity.
          Proverbs 27:6
          Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.
          David and Jonathan are perhaps one of the most well known biblical friendships. Despite the fact that Jonathan's father would try to kill David they remained fast friends. The strength of their friendship was that it was founded in God. David and Jonathan both believed in the promises of God and sought to keep his word. They both did their part to honour God but never took things into their own hands; patiently waited for God’s timing. They strengthened one another in good times and in times of trouble and strife. The bible says that Jonathan loved David as himself. He wanted good for David and supported him by giving him what he physically needed but also tended to his spiritual needs. He told David the truth about his father but reminded him that God would keep his word and provide safety for David until he set him on the throne. He promised to stand by him.
          A good friend can be trusted because he loves the other as himself. A good friend will tell a friend the truth even when it’s difficult, and will tell it in love. A good friend will also help with physical and spiritual needs.  Let’s find ways to show we are true friends. Let’s reflect the love of God in all our relationships. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life! John 14:6

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