Читать книгу Boyd's Commentary - R.H. Boyd Publishing Corporation - Страница 45

A true friend is a special gift from God, not a social media status profile on Facebook. In today’s society, it’s hard for some to tell the difference. The definition of friendship has nuanced meanings for different people. A friend for some is one who always will agree with, affirm, validate, and condone. They are loyal companions who never will question but only celebrate. Another word for these types of friends is sycophants.

A true friend, in stark contrast, is one who proves their loyalty in love, truth, sacrifice, and courage. They are called by God and equipped to help bring out the best in us. Part of how true friends demonstrate such devotion is by knowing when and how to intervene in our lives, even when we don’t want them to.

An intervening friend is one who is quick to pray for us, one who speaks up for us when we can’t ourselves, an individual who’s willing to sacrifice for our well-being. An intervening friend is not just a true friend but someone who reflects the character of Christ. Jonathan was such a friend to David.

After the slaying of Goliath, David’s reputation of being a courageous warrior began to surpass Saul’s. Needless to say, it became embarrassing to the king. Being consumed by fear, jealousy, and subsequent rage over David’s budding success and acclaim from the kingdom inhabitants, Saul sought to take his life.

Today’s lesson explores the way Jonathan’s loyalty to David was in tension with his loyalty to his father and was tested. Despite the obvious pressure he was under, Jonathan proved to be a true friend to David when he intervened. Jonathan loved and was devoted to his friend. He proved it even above loyalty to his own father.