Encouraging Others in the Lord

(15) 'While David was at Horesh in the Desert of Ziph, he learned that Saul had come out to take his life. (16) And Saul’s son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. (17)“Don’t be afraid,” he said. “My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be second to you. Even my father Saul knows this.” (18) The two of them made a covenant before the Lord. Then Jonathan went home, but David remained at Horesh.'

1 Samuel 23:15-18

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What beautiful love Jonathan shows David throughout their friendship. Despite the fact that King Saul, Jonathan's father, hated David and wanted to kill him, Jonathan went out of his way to protect David ( 1 Samuel 19:1-7; 1 Samuel 20 ). Jonathan sets an amazing example of what being a good friend to others looks like. Jonathan's kindness is continued in 1 Samuel 23:15-18. David was on the run from Saul and went to Horesh in the Desert of Ziph for refuge. During that time, Jonathan went also to Horesh to comfort David. Jonathan knew that David was in a tough situation and that he was probably facing a lot of stress in having to run for his life from Saul. It is recorded that Jonathan helped David during this time by helping him to find strength in God (v.16). Jonathan did so by reminding David of God's promise to set him as king over Israel (1 Samuel 16:1-13; 23:17). Jonathan reaffirmed God's promise to David and reminded David that if God said that he would be king over Israel, then surely it will come to pass. This type of encouragement is what we all need at times and the example that Jonathan set in strengthening David should be followed by all believers today. When we see our brothers and sisters in a tough situation or at a low point in their walk with God, we can use Scripture to remind them of God's promises and strengthen them in Christ ( Eph. 4:29 ). By doing so, God can use us in helping our brothers and sisters in pursuing His plan for their lives.

Q: In what ways have you seen believers in your life being weighed down by life's struggles? What could you say to them or remind them of to help them find strength in the Lord?

Q: What were some ways that God has used others to strengthen you when you were struggling?

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God, thank You for the beautiful example set by Jonathan of how You can use us to strengthen our brothers and sisters in Your Word and truth. Please help us to speak what is good for building up and help us to be available to help those in need. Please be glorified through the love we show others and the advice we give.

In Jesus' Name, we pray, Amen