Closer than a Brother

Verse of the Day: 1 Samuel 23:16, Then Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God.

One of the best friendships we can enjoy are those that are centered in Christ. We know that there were moments when David was distressed from being pursued by Saul. When we read the Psalms, we know that David often lamented, but always found comfort in the Lord. Here we see Jonathan, once again, risking his own life to be with David and remind him of his faithfulness to their friendship. However, note Jonathan’s approach in encouraging David. Although he states that he will stand with David on the day that the Lord makes him king in verse 17, his primary approach in encouraging David was to remind him that God was with him. As Christian friends, we must remember that in our well-meaning intentions we may want to encourage others by telling them that we will be there for them in the future, but the fact of the matter is that we just do not know that for sure. As we read the story of David’s life, we know that this was Jonathan’s and David’s last meeting, as Jonathan later died in battle (1 Samuel 31). The greatest comfort and encouragement we can offer one another is to remind each other of God’s faithfulness. Jonathan reminded David in verse 17, “Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Even my father Saul knows that.” In other words, God is protecting you and will not fail you. God made a promise to make you king and will not go back on His promise, because God is faithful. When it comes to pass, I will not oppose God’s will for you, as I am the rightful heir, but I will stand with you as your loyal friend and servant. What a beautiful friendship! Can any of us claim to be this kind of selfless friend? Can any of us truly behave with such genuineness and be free of jealousy toward those we love when we see God advancing them, even if it means loss for us? 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us, “Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.” Ephesians 4:29, also commands, “Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” The bottom line is that as Christian friends, we must encourage one another by reminding each other of God’s faithfulness and reminding each other that He will keep all His promises to us as His children. We must be willing to do whatever it takes to be there for one another, being more concerned about the needs of others, as God will be sure to take care of ours. Jonathan risked his life to be there for David, and to encourage him in his greatest time of need. He put his own life at stake to make sure that his beloved David was not going to give up or be discouraged by his current circumstances. Ultimately, the greatest reminder we can give each other is that we have a Friend who sticks closer to us than a brother, and that Friend is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (Proverbs 18:24).

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 6:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive Him and His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).