The Answer -Conclusion

 Modern-day critics may decry the conclusion to this test on Mount Carmel. Some people may worry lest religious zealots use it to justify violent acts of religious intolerance. And sadly, there are many violent religious fanatics today. However, Elijah was no fanatic. He was acting on Jehovah's behalf in a just execution. Furthermore, genuine Christians know that they cannot follow Elijah's course in taking a sword to the wicked. Rather, they follow the standard for all disciples of Jesus found in Christ's words to Peter: "Return your sword to its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword." (Matthew 26:52) Jehovah will use his Son to carry out divine justice in the future. 

The responsibility of a true Christian is to lead a life of faith. (John 3:16) One way to do so is to imitate faithful men like Elijah. He worshipped Jehovah exclusively and urged others to do the same. He boldly exposed as fraudulent religion that Satan used to lure people away from Jehovah. And he trusted Jehovah to settle matters instead of relying on his own abilities and will. Elijah stood up for pure worship. May all of us imitate his faith! 

Note: To imitate someone's faith is to have the same kind of faith as that person's in the Bible and today. To imitate Jehovah and Jesus Christ is to obey all the commandments of Jehovah as Jesus did and not to go against any of their laws or standards or commandments. Also, not to use crosses, pictures of the virgin Mary, other man-made gods, spend too much time in sports, entertainment, violent, sex related movies, shows, politics, standing and pledging the flag and national song, or singing it, etc, etc. 

Next time: How Long Was the Drought in Elijah's Day?

From the jw.org publications

The Answer - Continue

 Before Elijah's prayer, the crowds there might have wondered if Jehovah would turn out to be an empty lie, as Baal had proved to be. After the prayer, though, there was no time for wondering. The account says: "At that the fire of Jehovah came falling and went eating up the burnt offering and the pieces of wood and the stones and the dust, and the water that was in the trench it licked up." (1 Kings 18:38) What a spectacular answer! And how did the people respond!

"Jehovah is the true God! Jehovah is the true God!" they cried out, all of them. (1 Kings 18:39) At last they saw the truth. However, they had not shown any faith. Frankly, to admit that Jehovah is the true God after seeing the fire fall from the heaven in response to a prayer is not an impressive demonstration of faith. So Elijah asked more of them. He asked them to do what they should have done many years earlier-obey the Law of Jehovah. God's law said that false prophets and idolaters should be put to death. (Deuteronomy 13:5-9) These Baal priests were committed enemies of God, and they deliberately worked against his purposes. Did they deserve mercy? Well, what mercy had they ever granted to all those innocent children who were burned alive as sacrifices to Baal? (Read Proverbs 21:13; Jeremiah 19:5) Those men were well beyond the reach of mercy! So Elijah ordered that they be executed, and executed they were. - 1 KINGS 18:40. 

Next time: The Answer - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

The Answer

 Late in the afternoon came Elijah's turn to offer a sacrifice. He repaired an altar to Jehovah that had been torn down, no doubt by enemies of pure worship. He used 12 stones, perhaps reminding many in the 10-tribe nation of Israel that the Law given to all 12 tribes was still binding on them. Then he laid out a sacrifice and had everything doused with water, possible obtained from the Mediterranean Sea nearby. He even had a trench dug around the altar and filled it with water. Just as he had given the prophets of Baal every advantage, he gave Jehovah every disadvantage-such as was his confidence in his God. - 1 KINGS 18:30-35. 

When everything was ready, Elijah said a prayer. Eloquent in its simplicity, the prayer showed clearly where Elijah's priorities lay. First and foremost, he wanted it known that Jehovah, not Baal, was "God in Israel." Second, he wanted everyone to know that his own role was that of Jehovah's servant; all glory and credit should go to God. Finally, he showed that he still cared about his people, for he was eager to see Jehovah turn "their heart back." (1 Kings 18:36, 37) Despite all the misery that they had caused by their faithlessness, Elijah still loved them. In our own prayers to God, can we manifest similar humility, concern for God's name, and compassion for others who need help?

Next time:  The Answer - Continue

From the jw.org publications

A Climatic Test - Conclusion

 The Baal prophets proceeded to set up their sacrifice and call on their god. "O Baal, answer us!" they cried and cried again. They kept at it as the minutes and then the hours passed by." But there was no voice, and there was no one answering." The Bible says. At noon Elijah began to mock them, asserting sarcastically that Baal must be to busy to answer them, that he was relieving himself in the privy, or that he was napping and someone need to wake him up.  "Call at the top of your voice, Elijahh urged those charlatans. Clearing, he saw Baal worship as ridiculous fakery, and he wanted God's people to see it for the fraud that it was. - 1 KINGS 18:26, 27. 

In response, the Baal priests became even more frenzied, " calling at the top of their voice and cutting themselves according to their custom with daggers and with lances, until they caused blood to flow out upon them." All to now avail! "There was not voice, and there was no one answering, and there was no one paying attention." (1 Kings 18:28, 29) Indeed, there was no Baal. He was an invention designed by Satan to lure people away from Jehovah. The truth is, choosing any master other than Jehovah leads to disappointment, even shame. - Read PSALM 25:3; 115:4-8.

Next time: The Answer 

From the jw.org publications

A Climatic Test

 Elijah next proposed a test. It was simplicity itself. The Baal priests were to set up an altar and lay out a sacrifice on it; then they were to pray to their god to light the fire. Elijah would do the same. He said that the "God that answers by fire is the true God." Elijah well knew who the true God was. So strong was his faith that he did not hesitate to give his opponents every advantage. He let those Baal prophets go first. So they chose their bull for sacrifice and approached Baal. - 1 KINGS 18:24, 25.

We do not live in age of miracles. However, Jehovah has not changed. We can be just as confident in him as Elijah was. For instance, when others disagree with what the Bible teaches, we need not fear to let them go ahead and have their say. Like Elijah, we can look to the true God to settle the matter. We do that by relying, not on ourselves, not on his inspired Word, which is designed "for setting things straight." - 2 TIMOTHY 3:16. 

Next time: A Climatic Test - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"Limping" - How?

 The heights of Mount Carmel commanded a sweeping view-form the torrent valley of Kishon below to the Great Sea (Mediterranean Sea) nearby and to the mountains of Lebanon on the far northern horizon. But as the sun rose on this climatic day the vista was grim. A deathly pall hung over the once fertile land that Jehovah had given to the children of Abrahan.  It was now a land baked hard by the merciless sun, ruined by the folly of God's own people! As those people thronged, Elijah approached them and spoke: "How long will you be limping upon two different opinions? If Jehovah is the true God, go following him; but if Baal is, go following him." - 1 KINGS 18:21. 

What did Elijah mean by the expression "limping upon two different opinions"? Well, those people did not realize they had to choose between the worship of Jehovah and the worship of Baal. They thought they could have it both ways-that they could appease Baal with their revolting rituals and still ask favors of God. Perhaps they reasoned that Baal would bless their crops and herds, while "Jehovah of armies" would protect them in battle. (1 Samuel 17:45) They had forgotten a basic truth-one that still eludes many today.  Jehovah does not share his worship with anyone. He demands and is worthy of exclusive devotion. Any worship of him that is mixed with some other form of worship is unacceptable to him, even offensive! - Read EXODUS 20:5. 

So those Israelites were "limping" along like a man trying to follow two pathways at once. Many people today make a similar mistake, allowing other "baals" to creep into their life and push aside the worship of God. Heeding Elijah's clarion call to stop limping can us examine our own priorities and worship. 

Next time: A Climatic Test

From the jw.org publications 

A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax - Conclusion

 What made Baal worship so offensive ? It seduced Israel. luring many away from the true God. It was also a disgusting and brutal religion. It involved male and female temple prostitution, sexual orgies, and 3even the sacrifice of children. Jehovah   responded by sending Elijah to Ahab to announce a drougth would last until God's prophet proclaimed its end. (1 Kings 17:1) Several years passed before Elijah showed himself to Ahab and told him to gather the peopleand Baal prophets to Mount Carmel. 

What, though, does this struggle mean for us today? Some might assume that a story about Baal worship is irrelevant now, since we do not see temples and altars to Baal around us. But this account is not mere ancient history. (Romans 15:4) The word "Baal" means "owner" or "master." Jehovah told his people that they should choose him as their "baal" or husbandly owner. (Isaiah 4:5) Would you not agree that people will serve a variety of masters other than God Almighty? Whether people use their life in the service of money, career, recreation, sexual pleasure, or any of the countless gods that are worshipped instead of Jehovah, they choose a master. (Matthew 6:24; read Romans 6:16.) In Sense, the most potent elements that characterize Baal worship are thriving today. Reflecting on that ancient contest between Jehovah and Baal can help us make a wise decision about whom we will serve.

Next time: "Limping" - How? 

From the jw.org publications

A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax

 For much of his life, Elijah had helplessly watched as the best thing about his homeland and his people was pushed aside and trampled underfoot. You see, Israel was in the grip of a long struggle, a war between pure religion and false, between the worship of Jehovah God and the idolatry of the surrounding nations. In Elijah's day, that struggle had taken an especially ugly turn.

King Ahab had deeply offended Jehovah. He married Jezebel, the daughter of the king of Sidon. Jezebel was determined to spread Baal worship in the land of Israel and to eradicate the worship of Jehovah. Ahab quickly fell under her influence. He built a temple and an altar to Baal and took the lead in bowing down to this pagan god. - 1 KINGS 16:30-33.

Next time: A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

He Stood Up for Pure Worship - Conclusion

 Ahead of that solitary prophet lay a day like no other in his life. As Elijah watched, the stage was being set for one of the most dramatic confrontations between good and evil that the world has ever seen. How did he feel as that day dawned? He was not impervious to fear, being "a man with feelings like ours." (Read James 5:17.) We can be sure, at least, of this much: Surrounded by faithless people, their apostate king, and murderous priests, Elijah keenly felt that he was all alone. - 1 KINGS 18:22.

What, though, had brought Israel to this crisis? And what does this account have to do with you? Consider Elijah's example of faith and how practical it can be for us today.

Next time: A Long Struggle Reaches a Climax

From the jw.org publications

He Stood Up for Pure Worship

 ELIJAH looked out over the crowd as they trudged up the slopes of Mount Carmel. Even in the dim light of the early morning, the poverty and want afflicting these people were plain to see. The drought, three and a half years long, had left its mark on them.

Among them strutted the 450 prophets of Baal, full of pride and burning hatred for Elijah, Jehovah's prophet. Queen Jezebel had executed many servants of Jehovah, but this man still stood firm against Baal worship. Ah, but for how long? Perhaps those priests reasoned that a lone man could never prevail against all of them. (1 Kings 18:4, 19, 20) King Ahab had also come in his royal chariot. He too bore no love for Elijah.

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

Was It a Sexual Relationship - Conclusion

 . Both men were loyal to God's Law.  Jonathan and David had in common their faith in and love for Jehovah God, and they swore their oath of friendship "in the name of Jehovah." (1 Samuel 20:41, 42) Obedience to Jehovah was thus a high priority for both men, and God's Law clearly condemned all forms of sexual immorality, including homosexual acts. (Leviticus 18:22; 20:13) So to simply imply that David and Jonathan had homosexual relations is to deny the very foundation of their friendship. 

Note: You have to know that it was not only love for God, for when love of God, you love your best friend, your wife or husband the same as these two men for each other. When you love God as much, that is how you should feel for your best friend or your spouse. Men for women. 

Nothing in the Bible suggests that either Jonathan or David had homosexual leanings or that there was anything sexual about their friendship. To state otherwise is to read something into the account that simply is not there.

Next time: He Stood Up for Pure Worship

From the jw.org publications

.

IMMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -Was It a Sexual Relationship?

 Some researchers have claimed that the relationship between Jonathan and David was a homosexual liaison. Does the Bible support that view? Consider the following points.

. The Bible verses used to support that view do not really suggest a sexual relationship.  Often cited are David's words about Jonathan: "More wonderful was your love for me than the love of women." (2 Samuel 1:26) Some also refer to the verses that mentioned that the two men kissed each other. (1 Samuel 20:41) However, such words and expressions of affection between two men were quite common in Bible times and in the culture of the Middle East, without suggesting anything sexual at all. - 1 SAMUEL 10:1; 2 SAMUEL 19:39. 

Note:  Also, if they had read the Bible correctly and asked God to help them to understand or discern it. It would tell you that Jehovah did not like or approve of same sex love or sexual relationships. Also, these people do not really know what real love is between friends or relatives or marriages or their would not be so many divorces. There is too much selfishness out there to know what true love is between people. Their minds seem dark to me to think such thoughts. 

. Both men were married to women and fathered Children. David had several wives and many children. (2 Samuel 5:13-16) Jonathan's wife is not named, but he fathered a son named Mephibosheth, or Merib-baal. - 2 SAMUEL 4:4; 1 CHRONICLES 8:34. 

Next time: Was It a Sexual Relationship? - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"You Were Very Dear to Me" - Conclusion

 David never forgot his vow to Jonathan. Years later he sought out and took care of Jonathan's disabled son, Mephibosheth. (2 Samuel 9:1-13) Clearly, David had learned much from Jonathan's loyalty and honor and his willingness to stick loyally to a friend even when such loyalty came at a high price. Will we learn such lessons as well? Can we seek out friends like Jonathan? Can we show such friendship ourselves? If we help our friends to build and strengthen their faith in Jehovah, if we put our loyalty to God first, and if we remain loyal instead of seeking our own interests, we will be the kind of friend that Jonathan was. And we will imitate his faith.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -Was It aa Sexual Relationship? 

From the jw.org publications

"You Were Very Dear to Me" - Continue

 Jonathan went to battle at his father's side against the Philistines, avowed enemies of Israel. He could fight alongside his father in good conscience, for he did not let his father's wrongs get in the way of his own service to Jehovah. He fought bravely and loyally as he always had, but the battle went badly for Israel. Saul's wickedness had extended even to spiritism, a capital offense under God's Law, so Jehovah was no longer blessing Saul. Three of Saul's sons, including Jonathan were killed in battle. Saul was wounded and took his own life. - 1 SAMUEL 28:6-14; 312-6.

David was stricken with grief. That bighearted man even grieved for Saul, who had caused him so much misery and hardship! David wrote a dirge over Saul and Jonathan. Perhaps the most touching words relate to David's beloved mentor and friend: "I am distressed over you, my brother Jonathan; you were very dear to me. More wonderful was your love to me than the love of a women." - 2 SAMUEL 1:26. 

Next time: "You Were Very Dear to Me" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"You Were Very Dear to Me" -Continue

 "Do not be afraid" Jonathan told his young friend. He added this reassurance: "My father Saul will not find you." On what was that 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 become 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!

In the years that followed, David surely looked back often and fondly on that meeting. It was their last. Sadly, Jonathan's hope to become second to David was never realized. 

Next time: "You Were Very Dear to Me" -Continue 

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - "Your 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 king 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 mention him in connection with any of those misguided campaigns. Jonathan's loyalty to Jehovah, to David and to his own oath of friendship made such a thing impossible.

His feelings for his 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 Samue 23:16) How did Jonathan do so?

Next time: "You Were Very Dear to Me" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

 

The Price of Loyalty - Conclusion

 The next morning, Jonathan went out into the field near David's hiding place. He fired off an arrow as agreed, letting David know that Saul was still intent on killing him. Then Jonathan sent his attendant back into the city. He and David were alone, so they had a fleeting chance to talk. Both men wept, and Jonathan sadly saw his young friend off as David started his new life as a refugee. - 1 SAMUEL 20:35-42. 

Jonathan's loyalty passed the test of self-interest. Satan, the enemy of all faithful, would surely have loved to see Jonathan follow in Saul's steps and put his own ambitions for power to glory first. Remember, Satan loves to appeal to the selfish inclinations of humans. He succeeded with Adam and Eve, our first parents. (Genesis 3:1-6) Yet he failed with Jonathan. How frustrated Satan must have been! Will you resist similar attempts? We live in times when selfishness is epidemic. (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Will we learn from Jonathan's selfless, loyal spirit? 

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

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Price of Loyalty

 Jonathan tried again to reconcile Saul with David but he had even less success. David came to see Jonathan in secret, revealing that he feared for his own life. "There is only a step between me and death!" he told his older friend. Jonathan agreed to test out his father's feelings on the matter and let David know where things stood. While David hid, Jonathan would signal him the news by using a bow and arrows. Jonathan asked only to swear to this promise: "Never withdraw your loyal love from my household, even when Jehovah wipes out all the enemies of David from the face of the earth." David agreed that he would always look out for those of Jonathan's household. - 1 SAMUEL 20:3, 13-27.

Jonathan tried to speak well of David to Saul, but the king became enraged! He called Jonathan a "son of a rebellious woman" and derided his loyalty to David as shameful to the family. He tried to appeal to Jonathan's self-interest: "As long as the son of Jesse is alive on the earth, you and your kingship will not be firmly established." Unmoved, Jonathan again pleaded with his father: "Why should he be put to death? What has he done?" Saul exploded in violence! Though aged, Saul was still a mighty warrior. He hurled a spear at his son! Practiced though he may have been, he missed. Deeply hurt and humiliated, Jonathan left in anger. - 1 SAMUEL 20:24-34. 

Next time: The Price of Loyalty - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties - Conclusion

 Jonathan spoke up: "The king should not sin against his servant Daviid, for he has not sinned against you and what he has done for you had benefited you. He risked his lif3e to strike down the Philistine, so that Jehovah brought about a great victory for all Israel. You saw it, and you were overjoyed. So why should you sin against innocent blood in having David put to death for no reason?" In a rare moment of reasonableness, Saul listened to Jonathan and even swore not to harm David. But Saul was not a man of his word. After David had more successes, Saul was so full of jealous rage that he hurled a spear at him! (1 Samuel 19:4-6, 9, 10) But David escaped and fled Saul's court.

Have you ever faced conflicting loyalties? It can be very painful. In such situations, some would advise you that family should always come first. But Jonathan knew better.  How could he side with his father when David was a loyal, obedient servant of Jehovah? So Jonathan let his loyalty to Jehovah rule his decision. That was why he stood up for Davide. Still, although Jonathan's loyalty to God came first, he proved loyalty to his father by counseling him honestly instead of telling him what he wanted to her. Each one of us would benefit by imitating the way Jonathan showed loyalty. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Price of Loyalty

From the jw.org publications 

The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties

 At first, Saul was very fond of David and placed him in charge of his army. Before long, though, Saul fell victim to the very enemy that failed to conquer Jonathan-jealousy. David met with victory after victory against Israel's enemies, the Philistines. David thus won praise and admiration. Some women of Israel even sang: "Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his tens of thousands." Saul did not like that song.  "From that day on," we read, "Saul was always looking at David suspiciously." (1 Samuel 18:7, 9) He feared that David would try to take the kingship away from. That was foolish on Saul's part. True, David knew that he was to succeed Saul, but he never even considered supplanting Jehovah's anointed king while the man still reigned!

Saul schemed to get David killed in battle, but nothing worked. David kept winning battles and growing in the esteem of the people. Saul's next move was to try to unite his household-all his servants and his eldest son-in a plot to kill David! Imagine how sick at heart Jonathan must have been to see his father act that way! (1 Samuel 18:25-30; 19:1) Jonathan was a loyal son, but he was also a loyal friend. Now that those loyalties seemed to be in conflict, which one should win out? 

Next time: The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties - Conclusion 

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Foundation of Friendship -Conclusion

 The covenant they made was a real protection for their friendship. How so? You see, David knew what Jehovah had in store for him: He was to become the next king of Israel! Did he withhold the knowledge from Jonathan? Hardly! A good friendship such as theirs thrives on open communication, not on secrets and lies. How might learning of David's prospect have affected Jonathan? What if Jonathan had cherished a hope of becoming king one day and righting his father's wrongs? The Bible tells us nothing about any internal struggle Jonathan may have had; it tells us only of what truly matters, Jonathan's loyalty and his faith. He could see that Jehovah's spirit was with David. (1 Samuel 16:1, 11-13) So Jonathan fulfilled his oath and continued to view David, not as his rival, but as his friend. Jonathan wanted to see Jehovah's will done. 

That friendship turned out to be a great blessing. What can we learn from Jonathan's faith? Any servant of God does well to see the value of friendship. Our friends need not match our age or background, but they can do us enormous good if they have genuine faith. Jonathan and David were able to strengthen and encourage each other many times. And they would both need such help, for their friendship was about to face even greater tests.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -The Challenge of Conflicting Loyalties

From the jw.org publications 

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -The Foundation of Friendship - Continue

 That background may help us to understand what drew Jonathan to young David. Jonathan saw David's great faith. Remember, unlike those in Saul's army, David was undaunted by Goliath's colossal size. He reasoned that going into battle bearing Jehovah's name made him more powerful than Goliath with all his weaponry. - 17:45-47.

Years earlier, Jonathan had reasoned similarly. He was sure that two men-he and his armor-bearer-could attack and defeat an entire garrison of armed soldiers. Why? "Nothing can hinder Jehovah," Jonathan said. (1 Samuel 14:6) So Jonathan and David had much in common: strong faith in Jehovah and deep love for him. That was the ideal basis for friendship between two men. Even though Jonathan was a mighty prince and nearing 50 years of age, while David was a humble shepherd and likely not yet 20 years old, those differences between them did not matter. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Foundation of Friendship - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -The Foundation of Friendship

 How could a friendship form so quickly? The answer has to do with the basis for friendship. Consider some background. Jonathan was living through a difficult time. His father, Saul, had been changing over the years, and ever for the worse. Once a humble obedient man of faith, Saul had become an arrogant, disobedient king. - 1 SAMUEL 15:17-19, 26.

The changes in Saul must have troubled Jonathan deeply, for he was close to his father. (1 Samuel 20:2) Jonathan likely wondered what harm Saul could bring on Jehovah's chosen nations. Might the king's disobedience lead his subjects astray and cost them Jehovah's favor? Without a doubt, those were hard times for a man of faith like Jonathan.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Foundation of Friendship - Continue 

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - "Bound Together in Close Friendship

 Jonathan's reaction might surprise you. We read: "As soon as David had finished speaking to Saul, Jonathan and David became bound together in close friendship, and Jonathan began to love him as himself." Jonathan gave David his own fighting gear, including his bow-quite a gift, for Jonathan was a renowned archer. What is more Jonathan and David made a covenant, a solemn agreement, that bound them together as friends who would support each other. - 1 SAMUEL 18:1-5. 

Thus began one of the greatest friendships described in the Bible. Friendship is important to people of faith. If we choose friends wisely and become a supportive, loyal friend, we can strengthen our faith during these unloving times. (Proverbs 27:17) So let us see what we can learn about friendship from Jonathan.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - The Foundation of Friendship

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -"Bound Together in Close Friendship"

 The battle was over, and quiet descended over the valley of Elah. As the tents of the army encampment rustled in the afternoon breeze, King Saul held an audience. His eldest son Jonathan was in attendance, and a youthful shepherd was excitedly recounting his tale. The youth was David, and he was full of zeal and enthusiasm. Saul listened with rapt attention, handing on to David's every word. How, though, did Jonathan feel? He had won victories in his long career of serving in Jehovah's army. But today's victory did not belong to Jonathan; it belonged to this youth. David had killed the giant Goliath! Was Jonathan jealous of the glory being heaped on David? 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN -"Bound Together in Close Friendship" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" - Conclusion

 Finally, Saul and his soldiers found their courage. With a mighty battle cry, they rushed against the Philistines. The battle turned out just as David told Goliath that it would: "Jehovah . . . will give all of you into our hand." - 1 SAMUEL 17:47, 52, 53.

Today, servants of God do not engage in warfare. That time has passed. (Matthew 26:52) Still, we do need to imitate the faith of David. Like him, we need to see Jehovah as real-as the only God to serve and hold in awe. We may, at times, feel small in comparison to our problems, but our problems are small compared to Jehovah's limitless power. If we choose Jehovah as our God and we put faith in him as David did, then no challenge, no problem, need daunt us. Nothing is beyond the power of Jehovah to conquer!

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - "Bound Together in Close Friendship"

From the jw.org publications 

"JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" - Continue

  David ran down his foe, reaching into his bag for a stone. He loaded his sling and whirled it over his head until it fairly whistled. Goliath, perhaps close behind his shield-bearer, advanced toward David. Goliath's great height may actually have been a disadvantage for him. since a shield-bearer of normal size could hardly have a shield high enough to protect the giant's head. Ahd that is where Davide aimed. - 1 SAMUEL 17:41. 

David released his stone. Imagine the silence as it hurtled toward its mark. Jehovah doubtless made sure that David would not have to fling another one. The stone struck home, sinking into Goliath's forehead. The colossus topped to the earth, facedown! The shield-bearer likely fled in terror. David approached, took Goliath's own sword, and cut off the giant's head with it. - 1 SAMUEL 17:48-51. 

Next time: "JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

"JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" - Continue

 To this day, David's response stands as a great statement of faith. Just imagine the young man calling out to Goliath: "You are coming against me with a sword and speak and javelin, but I am coming against you in the name of Jehovah of armies, the God of the battle line of Israel, whom you have taunted." David knew that human power and weaponry mattered little. Goliath has shown disrespect for Jehovah God, and Jehovah would respond. As David put it, "the battle belongs to Jehovah." - 1 SAMUEL 17:45-47.

David was not blind to Goliath size or his weapons. Yet David refused to let such things daunt him. He did not make the mistake that Saul and the members of his army did. David did not compare himself to Goliath. Instead, he looked at Goliath. Instead, he looked at Goliath in comparison with Jehovah. Standing some nine and a half feet (2.9 m) tall, Goliath towered over other men, but how big was he compared to the Sovereign of the universe? Really, like any human, his was barely more than insect-in this case, one that Jehovah was ready to exterminate!

Next time: "JEHOVAH WILLSURENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" -Continue

 Thus equipped, David hurried to meet his foe. We can only imagine David's fervent prayers as he stooped in the dry riverbed on the valley floor and collected five small, smooth stones. Then he went out onto the field of battle not walking but running!

When Goliath saw his opponent, what did he think?  "He sneered at him in contempt," we read, "Because he was just a ruddy and handsome boy." Goliath boomed out: "Am I a dog, so that you are coming against me with sticks?" Evidently, he saw David's staff but took no note of the sling. He cursed David in the name of the Philistine gods and vowed to free the corpse of this contemptible foe to the birds and beasts of the field. - 1 SAMUEL 17:41-44. 

Next time: "JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND"

 At first, Saul tried to outfit David with his own armor. It was much like Goliath's, made of copper, and it likely included a large hauberk or shirt of mail, composed of overlapping scales. However, David tried moving about while wearing that large and cumbersome equipment and soon found that it would not work for him.  He was not trained as a soldier, so he was not used to wearing armor, especially the armor that was worn by Saul, who was the tallest man in the nation of Israel! (1 Samuel 9:2) He removed it all and chose the garb he was used to wearing-that of a shepherd equipped to protect his flock. - 1 SAMUEL 17:38-40. 

David carried his shepherd's staff, a bag over his shoulder, and a sling. Now a sling might not seem like much, but it was in fact a formidable weapon. Consisting of a small pouch at the end of two long leather straps, it was an ideal weapon for a shepherd. He would place a stone in the pouch, whirl it over his head at great speed, and then release one of the straps, hurling the stone with lethal accuracy. So effective was this weapon that armies sometimes used divisions of slingers. 

Next time: "JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"LET NO ONE LOSE HEART BECAUSE OF HIM" - Conclusion

 David reassured Saul by recounting what had happened with the lion and the bear. Was he boasting? No. David knew how he had won those battles. He said: "Jehovah, who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear, he is the one who will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine." Resigned at last, Saul responded: "Go, and may Jehovah be with you." - 1 SAMUEL 17:37. 

Would you like to have faith like David's Note, then, that David's faith was not mere idealism or wishful thinking.  He had faith in his God because of knowledge and experience. He knew that Jehovah as a loving Protector and a Keeper of promises. If we want to acquire such faith, we need to keep learning about the God of the Bible. As we live by what we learn, will find that the good results will likewise strengthen our faith. - HEBREWS 11:1. 

Next time: "JEHOVAH WILL SURRENDER YOU INTO MY HAND" 

From the jw.org publications

"LET NO ONE LOSE HEART BECAUSE OF HIM" - Continue

 David spoke these encouraging words to the king about Goliath: "Let no one lose heart because of him." Saul and his men had indeed lost heart because of Goliath. Perhaps they had made the natural mistake of comparing themselves to that huge man, picturing how they came up to the man's midriff or chest. They imagined that armored giant making short work of them. But David did not think that way. As we see, he saw a problem in a completely different light. So he offered to fight Goliath himself. - 1 SAMUEL 17:32.

Saul objected: "You are not able to go fight against this Philistine, for you but a boy, and he has been a soldier from his youth." Was David really a child? No, but he was too young to join the army, and he had been youthful looking. But David was already known as a valiant fighter and may have been in his late teens by this time. - 1 SAMUEL 16:18; 17:33.

Next time: "LET NO ONE LOSE HEART BECAUSE OF HIM" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"LET NO ONE LOSE HEART BECAUSE OF HIM"

While serving Saul, David often returned home to shepherd the sheep, sometimes for extended periods. It was during one such period that Jesse sent David to check on his three oldest sons, who were serving in Saul's army. Obediently David, laden with supplies for his brothers, headed to the valley of Elah. When he arrived, he was dismayed to find the two armies locked in a stalemate described at the outset of this article. They faced each other from the opposing slopes of that wide curved valley. - 1 SAMUEL 17:1-3, 15-19. 

To David, the situation was not tolerable. How could the army of the living God, Jehovah, flee in terror from a mere man-and a pagan at that? David saw how Goliath's taunts as direct insult to Jehovah. So he began talking eagerly to the soldiers about defeating Goliath. Before long, David's brother, Eliab, got wind of David's talk. He rebuked his younger brother harshly, accusing him of being there only to witness the carnage of the battle. But David answered him: "What have I done now? I was only asking a question!" Then he went right on speaking confidently about defeating Goliath, until someone repeated his words to Saul. The king ordered David to be brought before him. - 1 SAMUEL 17:23-31. 

Next time: "LET NO ONE LOSE HEART BECAUSE OF HIM" 

From the jw.org publications

"ANOINT HIM, THIS IS THE ONE!" - Conclusion

Did David begin to cultivate ambitions about the kingship? No, he was content to wait on the leading of Jehovah's spirit to let him know when it was time to assume greater responsibilities. In the meantime, he continued his humble work of shepherding. It was a work that he carried out with great dedication and courage. His father's flocks were threatened on two occasions, once by a lion ad once by a bear.  David did not simply try to drive off those predators from a safe distance. Rather, he leaped right into the fray to defend his father's helpless sheep. Both times, he single -handedly killed the ferocious wild beast! - 1 SAMUEL 17:34-36; ISAIAH 31:4.

In time, David was summoned again. His reputation had reached the ears of King Saul. Though still a powerful warrior, Saul had lost Jehovah's favor by rebelling against God's instructions. Jehovah had withdrawn his spirit from Saul, and thus the king was often subject to a bad spirit-fits of anger, suspicion, and violence. When this bad spirit was upon Saul, one thing that could sooth him was music. Some of Saul's men had learned of David's reputation as a musician as a fighter. So David was summoned, and he soon became one of Saul's court musicians and armor-bearers. - 1 SAMUEL 15:26-29; 16:14-23.

Young people in particular can learn much from David's faith in these matters. Notice that he spent his spare time in pursuits that drew him closer to Jehovah. Additionally, he patiently developed skills that were practical and that made him readily employable. Above all, though, he responded to the leading of Jehovah's spirit. What outstanding lessons for all of us to learn!

Next time: "LET NO ONE LOSE HEART BECAUSE OF HIM" 

From the jw.org publications

"ANOINT HIM, FOR THIS IS THE ONE!"

 Let us go back to a time many months earlier. Evening was falling as David tended his father's sheep somewhere on the hillsides near Bethlehem. He was a well-formed man, likely still in his teens, with a ruddy l0ok about him and appealing, intelligent eyes. In quiet moments, he passed the time playing the harp. The beauty of God's creation moved him, and his musical skills had grown steadily through many happy hours of practice. But on the evening in question, David was summoned. His father wanted to see him right away. - 1 SAMUEL 16:12.

He found his father Jesse, talking with a very old man. It was the faithful prophet Samuel. Jehovah had sent him to anoint one of the sons of Jesus as Israel's next king! Samuel had already seen David's seven older brothers, but Jehovah made it clear to Samuel that he He had none of them. When David arrived, though, Jehovah told Samuel: "Anoint him, for this is the one!" In front of David's older brothers, Samuel opened a hollowed-out horn filled with special oil and poured some over David's head. David's life was never the same after that anointing. The Bible says: "The spirit of Jehovah began to empower David from that day forward." - 1 SAMUEL 16:1,5-11, 13.

Next time: "ANOINT HIM, FOR HE IS THE ONE!" 

From the jw.org publications 

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DAVID -"The Battle Belongs to Jehovah

 David braced himself against the rush of soldiers jostling past him. They were wide-eyed with fear as they ran away from the battle line. What scared them so? Over and over, David must have heard them nervously repeating one word. It was the name of a man. And there, standing defiantly on the valley floor, was the man himself, perhaps looming larger than any man David had ever seen.

Goliath! David could see why the soldiers feared him-he seemed impossible huge. a mountain of a man. Even without his formidable armor, he probably weighed more than two large men combined. But he was heavily armed, and he was immensely strong, experienced warrior. Goliath bellowed out a challenge. Imagine his booming voice echoing on the hillsides as he taunted the army of Israel and their king, Saul. He dared any man to come forward and fight him, to settle this war in single combat! - 1 SAMUEL 17:4-10. 

The Israelites coward. King Saul cowered. The situation, David learned he had been dragging on for over a month! The two armies, Philistine and Israelite remained deadlocked as Goliath repeated his taunts day after day. David was distressed. How humiliating to think of Israel's king and his soldiers, including three of David's older brothers, cringing in fear! David's eyes, this pagan Goliath was doing far worse than embarrassing the army of Israel; he was insulting the God of Israel, Jehovah! But what could David, a mere youth, do about it? And what can we do today learn from the faith of David? -1 SAMUEL 17:11-14.

Next time: "ANOINT HIM, FOR THIS IS THE ONE!" 

From the jw.org publications

A Growing Darkness - Conclusion

Jonathan likely learned that Jehovah intended to take the kingship away from Saul. How did Jonathan react? Did he ever wonder what kind of ruler he might prove to be? Did he cherish hopes of righting some of his father's wrongs, setting a better example as a loyal and obedient king? We do not know his inner thoughts; we only know that any such hops were never to be realized. Does this mean that Jehovah abandoned that faithful man? On the contrary, he used Jonathan to set the greatest examples of loyal friendship contained in the entire Bible record! That friendship will be the focus of a further article on Jonathan.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ DAVID - "The Battle Belongs to Jehovah"

A Growing Darkness

 It was not long thereafter that Jehovah withdrew his holy spirit from Saul. Without Jehovah's loving influence, Saul was subject to wild mood swings, fits of temper, and overwhelming fears. It was if  a bad spirit from God replaced a good one. (1 SAMUEL 16:15; 18:109-12) How it must have distressed Jonathan to see his once noble father so terribly changed! Nonetheless, Jonathan never swerved from his loyal service to Jehovah. Hey supported his father as best he could, even speaking to him quite frankly at times, but he kept his focus on his unchanging God and Father, Jehovah. - 1 SAMUEL 19:4, 5.

Have you e to tover watched someone you love, perhaps a close family member, change drastically for the worse? It can be a profoundly painful experience. Jonathan's example reminds us of what the palmist later wrote: "Even if my own father and mother abandon me, Jehovah himself will take me in." ( Psalm 27:10) Jehovah is loyal. He will take you in too and be the best Father imaginable, no matter what imperfect humans may do to disappoint you or let you down.

Next time: A Growing Darkness - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

A Growing Darkness

 Despite Saul's faults, Jonathan kept fighting loyalty at his father's side through the years. We can only imagine his dismay as he saw his father develop a disobedient and proud spirit. A darkness was growing in his father, and Jonathan was powerless to stop it.

The problem came to a head when Jehovah assigned Sail to wage war against the amalekites, a people so immersed in wickeedness that back in Moses'day, Jehovah had foretold the destruction of the entire nation. (Exodus 17:14) Saul was told to destroy all their livestock and to execute their king, Agag. Saul won the battle, no doubt with Jonathan fighting bravely under his father's command as usual. But Saul flagrantly disobeyed Jehovah, sparing Agag and keeping the wealth, the livestock intact. The prophet Samuel pronounceD Jehovah's final judgment on Saul: "Because you have rejected the Word of Jehovah, he has rejected from being king."- 1 SAMUEL 15:2, 3, 9, 10, 23.

Next time: A Growing Darkness - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

"It Was With God That He Acted"

 Through his courage, hard work, and selfless spirit, Jonathan had built a good reputation. When he was in danger, his reputation came to his aid. We do well to contemplate the name, or reputations, that we are precious. (Ecclesiastes 7:1) If, like Jonathan, we take care to make a good name with Jehovah, our reputation will be a great treasure.

Next time: A Growing Darkness. 

From the jw.org publications 

"It Was With God That He Acted"

Note: I do know how this happened but it was an accident. Not good doing this on phone. Sorry.

Jonathan knew nothing about his father's ill- conceive oath. Exhausted from the battle, he dipped in his staff into a honeycomb and tasted some honey; he immediately felt his strength revive. Then one of his men told him about his father's prohibition against eating, Jonathan responded: "My father has brought great trouble on the land. Look at how my eyes brightened because I tasted this little bit of honey. How much better if the people had eaten freely today from the spoil of their enemies that they found! For then the slaughter of the Philistines would have been greater."  SAMUEL 14:25-30. He was right. Jonathan was a loyal Son, but his loyalty was not blind. He did immediately agree with everything his father did or said, and that balanced view earned the respect of others.

When Saul learned that Jonathan had violated the ban, he still refused to see the folly of his command. Instead, he actually believed that his own son should be put to death! Jonathan did not argue or beg for mercy. Note his remarkable reply. He selflessly said: Here I am! I am ready to die! However,  the Israelites spoke up: should Jonathan die -the one who brought this great victory to Israel? It is unthinkable! As surely as Jehovah is alive, not even a single hair of his head should fall to the ground, for it was with God that he acted this day. The result? Saul gave in to reason. The account says: "With that the people rescued Jonathan, and he did not die." - 1 SAMUEL 14:43-45.

Next time:  "It Was With God That He Acted"

From the jw.org publications 

"It Was With God That He Acted"

 For Saul, that victory did not turn out as well as it did for Jonathan. Saul had made some grave mistakes. He obeyed Jehovah's appointed prophet Samuel by offering a sacrifice that the prophet, who was also a Levite, was supposed to offer. When Samuel arrived, he told Saul that because of such disobedience, his kingdom would not last. Then, when Saul sent his men into battle, he first put them under an ill-advised oath: "Cursed is the man who eats any food before the evening and until I have taken vengeance ony enemies!" - 1 SAMUEL 13:10-14; 14:24. 

Saul's words hint at sad change in the man. Was the humble spiritual man becoming an ambitious egotist? After all, Jehovah never directed that such an unreasonable restriction be put on those hardworking soldiers. And what about Saul's words; until I have taken vengeance on my enemies" -do they suggest that Saul thought that this war was all about him?  Was he forgetting that it was Jehovah's justice that mattered and not Saul's hunger for vengeance, glory or conquest? 

Next time: "It Was Wit God That He Acted" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

Loyal Son and Brave Soldier

  So the two men, warrior and armor-bearor, charge up the steep slope toward the outpost. The Philistines, finally realizing that they were under attack, sent men out to fight off the two invaders. The Philistines had not only had the superior numbers but also the advantage of holding the higher ground, so they should have been able to make short work of two attackers. But Jonathan shot down one soldier after another. Behind him, the armor-bearor put them to death. In just a small patch of ground, the two men dispatched 20 enemy soldiers! And Jehovah did something further. We read: "Then terror spread in the field camp and among all the people of the outpost, and even raiding parties were terr you(ified. The earth began quaking, and a terror from God ensued." - 1 SAMUEL 14:15.

From a distance, Saul and his men watched as chao and panic spread among the Philistines, who even began to turn against one another! (1 SAMUEL 14: 16, 20) The Iraelites took courage and attacked, perhaps taking weapons from the fallen Philistines. Jehovah gave his people a great to victory that day. And he has not changed since those exciting times. If we today put faith in him, as did Jonathan and his armed armor-bearor, we will never have reason to regret our choice. - MALACHI 2:6; ROMANS 10:11.

Next time: "It Was With God That He Acted"

From the jw.org publications publications