Knit Together

I Sam. 18:1

"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."

How did this relationship grow to such depth? So much is  not mentioned in the text, but it is obvious that God gave this relationship to them, not only that, but God used it for His purposes. Initially after David had killed Goliath, Jonathan took his own robe, armor, and sword and gave it to David. Looking to the future, this act was symbolic because Jonathan did indeed give up his right to the throne for David.

Saul told Jonathan that they should kill David because his successes far outweighed Saul's, but Jonathan did not agree because he delighted in David. What a basis for a deep friendship! Not only did he delight in him, but he warned him of his father's desires. He protected David's very life by discovering what his father intended to do.

Later, when the situation seemed worse. David and Jonathan made a plan, a plan to preserve the life of David. Jonathan would again sound out his father before he warned David. At this time, Jonathan made a covenant with David that included David showing love to his house forever which he did when he showed kindness to Mephibosheth. David and Jonathan loved each other as their own souls. 

When David did not show up at the king's table, Saul confronted Jonathan. He told him that if David was not dead, he would lose his claim to the throne. This did not sway Jonathan! When Jonathan defended David to his father, Saul threw a spear at him. The next day, Jonathan went to the field and shot the arrows sending the encoded message. When they were alone, 'they kissed one another and wept with one another. David weeping the most." Then they departed with the Lord between them.

Such love as this is hard to understand. Jonathan was so selfless and gave up more more than most people would ever be willing to do. But when God knits hearts together, that love supersedes the bounds of earthly family, of position, and of security. Is my heart focused on the good of my friends over my own good? Do I delight in being with them? Do I care enough to warn and protect them about spiritual danger? Is the Lord always between us? Do I love my friends as my own soul?

Father,

Teach me how to be Your friend so that might love others in this same way. Reveal the motives of my heart and show me how to be self-less.

In Jesus name,

Amen