Our short study shall be drawn from the story of these two young men in the Bible; David and Jonathan. The latter who was a prince of the nation of Israel, became friendly with a shepherd boy, David.
The Bible recounts in 1Sam.18:1-4, the manner of the friendship they had. The characteristics of this particular relationship shall form the basis of our short study today and would give us insight on how we can build healthy friendships and avoid unhealthy ones.
“And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2KJV:And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house. 3:Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. 4KJV:And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.”
Note that in verse one, the Bible says; Jonathan loved David like his own self. The first characteristic of a true friendship is love. It should form the basis of every relationship(friendship) that intend to last. Our relationship with Jesus was born out of love. The Bible says; “ he loved us first…”
A healthy friendship would open doors for you. It is not self seeking. King Saul liked David because of Jonathan his son’s love for him. The friendship opened the door of the king to David. I have had friends who have gone out of their ways to make me comfortable, just like I seek their welfare also.
Agreement is one major factor in building a healthy relationship or friendship. The Bible in Amos 3:3 says; “…can two work together except they be in agreement?” Jonathan and David had a covenant, which is an agreement. The content of the covenant is not part of our study today, but the fact is that they were in agreement.
• Parties in a healthy friendship give their best. They do not hold back… Jonathan removed his royal cloak and put it on David. He didn’t think he was better than David. If you have a friend that always want to get the best and appear better than you, be weary of such friendship.
There is always a sense of security in every healthy friendship. Jonathan was secure with David and could give him his armor and was not afraid. Do you have a friend you cannot leave in your apartment and feel safe? Then, I think you should redefine that friendship.
It is very important we define our friendship with people and be certain its purpose. We need to be discerning and know that we don’t need to force friendships to work. It should just come naturally!
No comments:
Post a Comment