David’s Friend

ByJim Stephens

David’s Friend

Reading: 1 Samuel 18; 1 Chronicles 6; Psalm 11; Matthew 3

1 After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king’s son. There was an immediate bond of love between them, and they became the best of friends. 2 From that day on Saul kept David with him at the palace and wouldn’t let him return home. 3 And Jonathan made a special vow to be David’s friend, 4 and he sealed the pact by giving him his robe, tunic, sword, bow, and belt. (1 Samuel 18:1-4 NLT) Jonathan, the heir to Saul’s throne, loved David and became his friend and his number one advocate. However, as David became more and more successful, Saul feared David’s popularity and success and quickly came to hate David.

It’s interesting that Jonathan, the man who had the most to lose if David became successful, loved and protected David. What a great guy!

Then I read this verse today in Matthew 3 where John the Baptist, at the very peak of his popularity, told his followers that Jesus was the one to hear and follow. What a great guy! “I baptize with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.” (Matthew 3:11 NLT) Thank God for men and women who recognize their place in God’s plan and also recognize the role others are destined to play. Thank God for those who will put their own ambitions aside and become advocates for other gifted servants so the work of God can go forward. Thank God for those who are committed to developing and releasing the next generation of Christ-following leaders. They are truly citizens and advocates of God’s Kingdom. Prayer: Father, Please help me to recognize the gifts and potential in others and become a friend and advocate of their success and development. Please develop something of the gracious spirit of Jonathan and John the Baptist in me. Help me to always remember that it’s not about me, it’s about your kingdom. Amen.

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