In today’s Bible study, we read about David and Johnathan. The friendship between David and Jonathan in the Holy Bible is one that is highly regarded and celebrated for its loyalty, devotion, and deep bond. Their story is primarily found in the First Book of Samuel in the Old Testament.
David was a young shepherd who would later become the renowned King of Israel, while Jonathan was the eldest son of King Saul and the heir apparent to the throne. Despite their different backgrounds and circumstances, David and Jonathan formed a profound friendship that transcended societal expectations and challenges.
“After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.” (1 Samuel 18:1)
Their friendship began when David, guided by God’s favor, defeated the giant Philistine warrior Goliath with a single stone from his sling. Jonathan witnessed this extraordinary act and was immediately drawn to David’s courage and faith. The Holy Bible describes Jonathan’s soul being knit to David’s, signifying the deep connection and mutual affection they shared.
Jonathan recognized David’s potential and honored him, even though he knew that David would eventually become king instead of himself. He saw David’s rise as God’s will and actively supported him, displaying profound selflessness. “Jonathan said to David, ‘Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, “The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.”‘ Then David left, and Jonathan went back to the town.” (1 Samuel 20:42)
Their friendship faced numerous trials, primarily due to King Saul’s growing jealousy and insecurity regarding David’s popularity. Saul, driven by his fear of losing the throne, repeatedly attempted to kill David. However, Jonathan remained loyal to his friend, often interceding on David’s behalf and warning him of Saul’s plans.
“Then David fled from Naioth at Ramah and went to Jonathan and asked, ‘What have I done? What is my crime? How have I wronged your father, that he is trying to kill me?’ ‘Never!’ Jonathan replied. ‘You are not going to die! Look, my father doesn’t do anything, great or small, without letting me know. Why would he hide this from me? It isn’t so!’ But David took an oath and said, ‘Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said to himself, “Jonathan must not know this or he will be grieved.” Yet as surely as the LORD lives and as you live, there is only a step between me and death.'” (1 Samuel 20:1-3)
Despite the challenges they faced, David and Jonathan never wavered in their friendship. They shared a deep bond that went beyond mere companionship, rooted in their shared faith and trust in God. Their friendship was marked by mutual respect, support, and sacrificial love.
“From Lame to Honored: Mephibosheth’s Place of Honor at the King’s Table”
After the deaths of King Saul and Jonathan, David became the king of Israel. In 2 Samuel 9, David inquired if there were any remaining descendants of Saul’s house to whom he could show kindness for Jonathan’s sake. David was informed about Mephibosheth, who was crippled in both feet.
David summoned Mephibosheth and showed him great favor and kindness. He restored to Mephibosheth all the land that had belonged to Saul and invited him to eat at his table regularly, like one of the king’s sons. This act of generosity was a way for David to honor his friendship with Jonathan and demonstrate his compassion towards Mephibosheth, despite the historical enmity between their families.
By inviting Mephibosheth to dine at his table, David offered him a place of honor, provision, and care. It was a significant gesture of kindness, considering Mephibosheth’s physical disability and his family background.
The story of Mephibosheth highlight’s themes of grace, mercy, and the power of extending kindness to those in need. It portrays David’s desire to honor his covenant with Jonathan and to extend compassion to Mephibosheth, regardless of his circumstances.
May we all experience the blessings of loyal, meaningful and divine friendships in our lifetime!