Do you have a Jonathan in your life?
Perceive: Some sinful people have attempted to describe the "love" shared between these two men as homosexual. The word “love” used to describe Jonathan and David reflects more political implications than mutual affection. Later in 1 Kings 5:1 we see a clear sample of the bond use of “love” which says, “for Hiram had always been a friend with David.” When David and Jonathan met, they quickly became close friends. Jonathan was a great warrior (1 Samuel 14:1-15). At this point in the story, we have two great warriors developing a close lifetime friendship which has political implications later seen in the full account of David's life.
Practice: Every man needs at least one Jonathan in his life. Jonathan’s are men who are of one heart and soul, as Jonathan and David. To be able to move to the level of being a true Jonathan, every godly man must learn what it means to be broken and die to self. Then He said to them all, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). Jonathan's act of stripping his princely clothes and armor is an example of his willingness to sacrifice for his closest friend. In effect, he was transferring his royal position to his friend. He was dying to himself.
Pray: O mighty God, forgive me for the times I am selfish and help me die to myself for my family and my close friends.
This devotional challenge comes from The Heart of a Lion - King David of Israel and is available on Amazon.com
Practice: Every man needs at least one Jonathan in his life. Jonathan’s are men who are of one heart and soul, as Jonathan and David. To be able to move to the level of being a true Jonathan, every godly man must learn what it means to be broken and die to self. Then He said to them all, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). Jonathan's act of stripping his princely clothes and armor is an example of his willingness to sacrifice for his closest friend. In effect, he was transferring his royal position to his friend. He was dying to himself.
Pray: O mighty God, forgive me for the times I am selfish and help me die to myself for my family and my close friends.
This devotional challenge comes from The Heart of a Lion - King David of Israel and is available on Amazon.com
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