I Samuel 18-19

“As soon as he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul” (18:1). Within the intrigues, jealousies, and attempted coups of the royal house, Jonathan’s friendship with David shines as something different.  Even though Jonathan could have been heir to Saul’s throne (and had many kingly qualities), he chose instead to love and support David. Jonathan protected David from Saul and advocated for him at great risk (19:1-5).

“Jonathan, Saul’s son, delighted much in David” (19:1). Real friendship, real love, puts aside our own ambitions and agendas and seeks the good of the other, even when it costs us.