Jonathan then said to David, “Go in the assurance the two of us pledged in the name of the Lord when we said: The Lord will be a witness between you and me and between my offspring and your offspring forever.” Then David left, and Jonathan went into the city. 1 Samuel 20:42 HCSB
Some people have friends that date back to childhood. Because my father was a minister, we moved often and I did not have the opportunity to develop close friendships with other children. Some of my closest friends are those with whom I went to seminary, with whom I worked or with whom I taught leadership training conferences. One of my best friends is Mark Miller, state Sunday School Director for the Tennessee Baptist Convention. We developed a close relationship while I served at Lifeway Christian Resources and at two other churches in Tennessee. We have done several Sunday School leadership conferences together and we enjoy playing golf together. I keep in touch with Mark and I am sure our friendship will last for many years to come.
Jonathan and David promised to be friends forever, and their friendship would even carry over to their children. David kept his promise. After Jonathan’s death, David found Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, and brought him to live in his court, where he enjoyed the privileges of being part of the kings’ family (2 Samuel 9:1-10).
Challenge: Love, trust, and loyalty are key ingredients for any friendship. Jonathan and David did not let adversity and challenges pull them apart. Thank God for your best friend or friends. They are gifts from God. What can you do to support and strengthen your friendships?