IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - "It Was With God That He Acted"

 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 said selflessly: "Here I am! I am read 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 resuced Jonathan, and he did  not die." - 1 SAMUEL 14:43-45.  

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 reputation, that we are making for ourselves day by day.  The Bible tells us that a good name is very precious.  (Ecclesiaste 7:1) If, like Jonathan, we take care to make a good name with Jehovah, our reputation will be a great treasure.  

Next time:IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JONATHAN - A Growing Darkness

From the jw.org publications