Jonathan wanted to find out if his father really wanted to kill David. So, he tested his father’s intent and arranged for a signal with David. When Jonathan defended David, Saul hurled his spear at him to kill him. This confirmed to Jonathan that his father was determined to kill David. He got up in fierce anger and did not eat, for he was grieved at his father’s shameful treatment of David.

Jonathan followed through on his promise and let David know Saul’s intentions. Now David had to run for his life. They parted in tears, but their bond of friendship was not broken, for they swore an oath in the name of the LORD. We see covenantal, loyal love on display in their friendship. Jonathan was loyal to David by showing his faithfulness and unwavering commitment to David. This kind of friendship is precious. God wants us to maintain our loyalty to him as well as to our brothers and sisters in him.
Application: Lord, help us to love you and build up the body of Christ based on true friendship.
One Word: Loyal friendship in God