Loyal Son and Brave Soldier

 To understand why Jonathan charged against the outpost, we need to look at his background. Jonathan was the eldest son of Saul, the first king of Israel. When Saul was anointed as king, Jonathan was already a man, perhaps 20 years of age or even older. It seems that Jonathan maintained a close bond with his father, who would often confide in his son. In those early days, Jonathan knew his father not only as a tall handsome man and courageous warrior but also as something much more important-a man of faith and humility. Jonathan could see why Jehovah chose Saul to be king. Even the prophet Samuel said there was no one like Saul in the land! -1 SAMUEL 9:1, 2, 21; 10:20-25; 20:2.

Jonathan must have felt honored to fight under his father's command against the enemies against Jehovah's people. Those wars were not like the nationalistic clashes of today. 

Back then, Jehovah chose the nation of Israel to represent him, and it was under constant attack by nations that worshiped false gods. The Philistines, corrupted by the worship of such gods as Dagon, often trie to oppress or even destroy Jehovah's chosen people.

Next time: Loyal Son and Brave Soldier. - Continue

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