SCRIPTURE: “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. 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.” 1Sam. 18:1, 4 (NIV).
QUOTE: “You can make it, but it’s easier if you don’t have to do it alone.” – Betty Ford
NOTES:
Who is a friend? A friend is someone you have an intimate relationship that is of mutual benefit. A good friend is that close buddy of yours who you are vulnerable to, who knows much about you, both your strengths and weaknesses and is ready to do his best to bring out the best out of you. He is that person who will never take advantage of your lowered guard, but will rather protect it.
A true friend is both a ‘shadow’ and a ‘mirror’ to the friend. A mirror does not lie, it tells you the truth at all times. A shadow follows you both in good times and in bad. There is nothing so assuring than to have someone who will stand by you in time of trials and difficulties when pursuing your objectives in life. A true friend is not necessarily only a cheerleader but he loves you enough to rebuke and chastise you when need arises. “A friend loveth at all time, and a friend is born for adversity.” Prov. 17:17. Friendship is the ability to draw out the best out in others through love, to help you achieve your God given goal. It starts with acquaintance and with time it grows into an intimate relationship.
ILLUSTRATION:
Prince Jonathan, the son of King Saul of Israel “stripped” himself as soon as his soul connected with that of David. The implication of this is, you are not truly a friend until you lower your guard, become vulnerable and let him into you.
REFFLECTION:
Which of your friends can you say you connected with like Jonathan at first meeting?
TWO YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 1Chr 15 – 16, Psalm 43