Our Family Time with God

Nov. 10, 2009

BECOMING A BLESSING

TO YOUR FRIEND

Scripture Reading--1 Samuel 20:35-42

David and Jonathan's friendship is a classic demonstration of how two friends can be a blessing to each other. These two men knew not only how to gain a friend but also how to maintain a friendship. Several truths are particularly worth noting.

First, note the level of commitment these men demonstrated. In chapter 18 ( v. 3 ) and again in chapter 20 ( v. 42 ), we read that David and Jonathan made a covenant. Their covenant was an agreement that they would stay true to each other forever. Their relationship also included giving and sharing. In 1 Samuel 18:4, Jonathan gave David several garments as well as his valuable weapons.

In 1 Samuel 19:2, we read about Jonathan's willingness to protect his friend from harm and danger at the hand of his father, Saul. As a true friend, Jonathan dreaded the thought of his friend losing his life.

In 1 Samuel 19:7, we read that David and Jonathan were open and honest. Because of their desire to be transparent, they kept few secrets.

According to 1 Samuel 20, David and Jonathan also prayed together ( vv. 11-15 ). Together, they sought the Lord's direction and protection in their dire situation. As men of God, they joined together and sought to know God's will.

Finally, the key thought comes in 1 Samuel 20:42. In the name of the Lord, they said, "The Lord be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever."

What drew these men together as friends was that the Lord was at the center of their friendship. As each friend initially sought to draw closet to God, the result was that they drew closer to each other. In the Lord, they blessed each other. Friendship isn't just finding a good friend but being a good friend.

PRAY: Ask each family member to pray for someone he considers to be a special personal friend.

--Tom Palmer--