1 Samuel 18:1-4 - 1 After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king’s son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David. 2 From that day on Saul kept David with him and wouldn’t let him return home. 3 And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. 4 Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt.
Genuine friends are rare treasures. However, the Lord created us for meaningful relationships; it’s difficult to flourish if we live in isolation. By design, we are made to share life with others, as well as to give and receive love.
Surface friendships don’t satisfy this need. But unfortunately, many people never experience anything deeper. This is why so many individuals are lonely--even if they’re always surrounded by others.
What some men and women don’t realize is that healthy relationships require diligent work. Once God brings the right people into our lives, we must devote time and effort for appropriate and fruitful intimacy to develop.
In the book of 1 Samuel, David and Jonathan exemplify this type of closeness, although they seemed like improbable companions: David was merely a shepherd, whereas Jonathan was a prince. But to them, status didn’t matter. In addition to humility, they demonstrated great respect for each other’s faith and courageous love of Israel. The two felt as committed as brothers and gave of themselves generously. For example, Jonathan gave David his robe—a prized possession of the king’s son—in order to show his loyalty and love (v. 4). The prince even risked his life and reputation in order to save his friend (1 Sam. 20:27-32).
Do you have a person like this--someone with whom to share your joys and sadnesses, strengths and weaknesses, fears and pain? Thankfully, Jesus is the best friend we can have. But He also desires that we have close relationships with others. What can you do today to build this type of friendship?
4 comments:
Seasons of life can really get the best of us in this category. I certainly have friends, but are they like David and Jonathan? I really like that he captures the "diligent work" part in this devo. All relationships require diligent work. Iam really interested in hearing what you guys have to say on the subject.
Blessings,
cas
Clark,
Like the topic. I'm in the same boat. I have friends but I'm sure I could be a better friend and vice-versa. The bottom line for me is that I'm selfish. I want to hold onto my time for myself rather than delve into 'diligent work' aspect of friendship.
Yet, I do desire to deepen friendships at times. I'm fortunate in that my wife is my best friend yet it is extememly important for me to build into my male, christian friends to keep my mind of myself.
Please pray for me as I'm a selfish, dog.
i have always kind of held on to the mantra of fewer but deeper friendships. one thing i dont do so well is pray for my friends and ask them how they are doing. i think i ask them to pray for me and they politely listen to my issues, but i need to reciprocate better. again, selfishness gets in the way.
I'm in the same boat as trm. I have friends, but are they truly that kind of friend. I also tend to be selfish & a loner. I'm also the kind of friend that would do anything(within reason) for my friends. Very good topic.
ldb
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