Bible Soundbites
Monday, 25 February 2008 00:00 | and posted in Jonathan
Jonathan said to his young armor-bearer, “Come, let’s go over to the outpost of the Philistines. Perhaps the Lord will act in our behalf. Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few.” 1 Samuel 14:6
Jonathan is remembered most for being a good friend, but the first impression we get of him is of his faith and courage in God.
The Israelites are at war with the Philistines, but only Jonathan and his dad, King Saul, have weapons! But such is Jonathan’s faith in God that he decides to take on the Philistines by himself anyway…!
As a result, they won the battle.
Tuesday, 26 February 2008 00:00 | and posted in Jonathan
After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king’s son. There was an immediate bond of love between them and they became the best of friends. 1 Samuel 18:1
David’s usually the one people remember; he was the famous king, he beat the giant Goliath.
Jonathan tends to be forgotten.
But Jonathan’s loyal support and friendship helped make David who he was and helped him succeed.
You don’t always have to be in the public eye to have a big impact. Just being a friend can make a difference.
Wednesday, 27 February 2008 00:00 | and posted in Jonathan
And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 1 Samuel 18:3
This is said twice of Jonathan, such is his love of David. Just think about what it would mean in your own friendships if you loved your friends as much as you love yourself…! How would this selfless attitude transform your friendships and communities?
How can you show that kind of love to your friends today?
Thursday, 28 February 2008 00:00 | and posted in Jonathan
“As long as David is alive, you’ll never be king.” Saul told Jonathan. “Now go and get him so I can kill him!” 1 Samuel 20:31-32
“But why should he be put to death?” Jonathan asked his father.
David had already been named as Israel’s future king. You’d think that as the king’s son, Jonathan might have seen David as a threat to the position that should have been his.
Instead he was committed to David and he wanted the best for him. Do you want the best for your friends even when that clashes with your own interests?
Friday, 29 February 2008 00:00 | and posted in Jonathan
Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God. 1 Samuel 23:16
It’s a tough time for David. He’s been forced into hiding by Saul, who is out with his men hunting him down in order to kill him. While this is going on, Jonathan takes the time and effort to deliberately seek David out so he can encourage him.
What a great friend!
How could you go out of your way to encourage one of your friends today?
Saturday, 01 March 2008 00:00 | and posted in Jonathan
“Don’t be afraid,” Jonathan reassured him. “My father will never find you! You are going to be the king of Israel, and I will be next to you, as my father Saul is well aware.” 1 Samuel 23:17
Selfish ambition just didn’t seem to come into it for Jonathan. It would have been so easy for him to be jealous of David but instead he’s happy to see how God is blessing David. The only thought Jonathan has about how this will affect his own life is a positive one – he’s going to be at his friend’s side…
Does that challenge you as much as it does me?
Sunday, 02 March 2008 00:00 | and posted in Jonathan
One day David asked, “Is there anyone in Saul’s family still alive- anyone to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?” 2 Samuel 9:1
Even years after Jonathan’s death, his friendship is still having lasting effects as David looks for a way to pay back his kindness.
Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth had been crippled as a child but he ends up eating daily at the King’s table, all as a result of Jonathan’s loyalty and commitment to David.
What a great legacy to leave!