IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - "You Were Very Dear to Me"

 Saul's hatred for David grew into an obsession.  Jonathan was helpless as he watched his father descend into a kind of madness, amassing his army and leading it around the country, seeking to destroy one innocent man. (1 Samuel 24:1, 2,12-15; 26:20) Did Jonathan take part?  Interestingly,  the Scriptures never mentioned him in connection with any of these misguided campaigns.  Jonathan's loyalty to Jehovah, to David, and to his own oath of friendship made such a thing impossible.

His feelings for this young friend never changed.  In time, he found a way to meet David again. It was in Horesh, which means "Wooded Place."  Horesh was in a wild mountainous region likely a few miles southeast of Hebron.  Why did Jonathan risk going out to see  this fugitive?  The Bible tells us that his motive was to help David "find strength  in Jehovah." (1 Samuel 23:16)  How did Jonathan do so? 

"Do not be afraid," Jonathan told his young friend. He added his reassurance: "My father Saul will  not find you."  On w hat was the reassurance based?  On Jonathan's deep faith that Jehovah's purpose would succeed. He went on:  "You will be king over Israel."   The prophet Samuel had been commissioned to say that years earlier, and Jonathan now reminded David that Jehovah's word is always reliable.  And how did Jonathan see his own future?  "I will second to you."  What priceless humility the man showed!  He would be content to serve under the command of this man who was 30 years his junior, to serve as his supportive right hand!  Jonathan  concluded:  "My father Saul also knows that." (1 Samuel 23:17, 18) In his heart, Saul knew that he was doomed to lose this fight against the man Jehovah had chosen to be the next king! 

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