Day 71 – 1 Samuel: Character sketch of Jonathan

“So Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, saying, “May the Lord destroy all your enemies!” And Jonathan made David reaffirm his vow of friendship again, for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself.” 1 Samuel 20:16-17 NLT

Loyalty is one of life’s most costly qualities, and it is the most selfless part of love. To be loyal, we cannot live only for ourselves. Loyal people not only stand by their commitments but also willingly suffer for them. Jonathan is a shining example of loyalty. Sometimes he was forced to deal with conflicting loyalties to his father, Saul, and to his friend David. His solution to the problem teaches us how to be loyal and what must guide loyalty.

In Jonathan, truth always guided loyalty. He knew the source of truth was god, who demanded his ultimate loyalty. The conflicting demands of our relationships challenge us as well. If we attempt to settle these contradictions only at the human level, we will constantly be dealing with a sense of betrayal. The truth in God’s Word, the Bible, will bring light to our decisions.

Strengths and accomplishments

Jonathan was brave, loyal, a true leader, and a close friend to David. He did not put his personal well-being ahead of those he loved and depended on God.

Life lessons from Jonathan’s life

Loyalty is one of the strongest parts of courage. Our allegiance to God puts all other relationships in perspective.

Prayer: Father, thank You for this beautiful sketch of Jonathan and his friendship with David. We are so easy to push people away from us and neglect to see the reason You have placed them there. Lord, teach me to be loyal to those you bring into my life, but more importantly to be loyal to You. Amen.