January 27
“A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” Prov. 18:24.
“The friendship of Jonathan for David was… of God’s providence, to preserve the life of the future ruler of Israel. Precious were the moments which these two friends passed in each other’s society. They related their varied experiences, and Jonathan strengthened the heart of David, saying, “Fear not! For the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my father knoweth.” As they talked of the wonderful dealings of God with David, the hunted fugitive was greatly encouraged. “And they two made a
covenant before the Lord: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.”
Jonathan, by birth heir to the throne, yet knowing himself set aside by the Divine decree; to his rival the most tender and faithful of friends, shielding David’s life at the peril of his own; steadfast at his father’s side through the dark days of his declining power, and at his side falling at the last — the name of Jonathan is treasured in heaven, and it stands on earth a witness to the existence and the power of unselfish love.
Jonathan… falling at last (after he died), the song in which David gave utterance to the feelings of his heart became a treasure to his nation, and to the people of God in all subsequent ages: “How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! Jonathan is slain upon thy high places. I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: Very pleasant hast thou been unto me: Thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women….” 1 Sam. 1:26.
The scripture is very plain; it exalts the love that should be manifested between friends. “A man that hath friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” Prov. 18:24.
In his friendship and love for Jonathan, David had displayed noble traits of
character, and his moral worth had won him favor with the people.
This and other example of the good and noble men of sacred history, is to be
imitated by us. When man relies implicitly upon God, he will be true to himself; and he can hope and rejoice in the God of his salvation.
Sincerely your friend and brother ever to stand for Truth and righteousness
though the majority forsake us, to be heroes for God – “men wondered at.”
Zech. 3:8.”
SOURCE REFERENCES
ML 210.2-3, 5 CC 175.5, ST, Aug 31, 1888 par. 9.11, V.H. Jezreel, H.B. Jezreel Letter, No. 7:10