Wednesday, September 4, 2013

By: Gwen Hitt

A Gift from God

Proverbs 18:24 One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

My husband and I were very cognizant of our children's friendships. We understood that poor choices in this area could lead to grave consequences. Admittedly, this is not an easy part of parenting.....BUT it is a necessary one!

Today's scripture speaks of a friend that sticks closer than a brother. King Saul's son, Jonathan, was such a friend to David --- the shepherd boy, the giant slayer, Saul's successor, and God's friend. As we reflect on David's accomplishments, it is easy to place all of our focus on him.

However, Jonathan was a HERO in his own right. He is described as a man of great courage with a deep love for God. He was a mighty soldier and highly respected by the men he led. Samuel 14:6 describes a time when Jonathan and his armor bearer entered the enemy's camp with complete trust in God's ability to intervene on their behalf - "...the Lord will help us, for nothing can hinder the Lord. He can win a battle whether he has many warriors or only a few!" Jonathan and his armor bearer are credited to having killed 20 Philistines that day.

It is important to note that this valiant soldier would have succeeded his father, Saul, as Israel's King. He could have easily formed an intense hatred for David as his father did. Instead, he recognized that God had chosen David, and he did all that he could to be a true friend to David often placing his own life in danger. Jonathan exemplified the type of love commanded of us in John 15:13 "There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends." Jonathan put aside all aspirations of one day assuming his father's kingship to ensure that God's anointed one would become the next King of Israel.

The Hebrew meaning of the name Jonathan is a "gift from God." My challenge to you today is to always strive to be the type of friend that Jonathan was to David. Never allow feelings of jealousy, competition, or bitterness come between you and your friends. Rather, focus on being a GIFT FROM GOD in their lives!

Dear Lord, I want to thank you for the friendships that I have in my life. I realize that the gift of a true friend is to be cherished. Help me to be the type of friend who will be there through the good times AND through the bad times.

I thank You, my Jesus, for dying for me. I believe that You are Lord and that God raised You from the grave so that I can have eternal life.