A Few Words Before I GoSample

Jonathan and David stayed loyal when they had to say goodbye

Jonathan said to David, ‘Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord, saying, “The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.“‘ (1 Samuel 20:42-43)

The parting between David and Jonathan was heartbreaking. They had become good friends. They had spent time together and admired each other's bravery in the wars that sometimes had to be fought. But their friendship was severely challenged.

Jonathan was a son of King Saul. David was employed by Saul as a musician and army leader. At first Saul was pleased with David, but gradually he became jealous and suspicious. David was very successful and popular with the people, while Saul made wrong choices and was abandoned by God. Saul rightly suspected that David would become king in his place, and he couldn't bear that. He wanted to kill David.

Jonathan tried to stand up for his friend, but that only helped temporarily. David had to flee for his life, and had to say goodbye to Jonathan, perhaps for life. The friends could not change this situation. They were separated against their will because of King Saul's hateful attitude. But they promised each other lasting loyalty. They would even treat each other's children well if given the chance — which indeed happened later. Their friendship persisted.

Have you ever been separated from someone against your will? Have you found ways to remain faithful to this person nevertheless?