Have you ever thought of yourself as a peer co-mentor?
David and Jonathan had a friendship that was worth praying for and pursuing.
It was meaningful and mutually empowering.
David and Jonathan:
1.They shared: “Jonathan became one in spirit with David” (1 Samuel 18:1)
-a heart to follow God and do His will (14:6, 17:45-47)
-Interests and skills of war (background)
-the same environment in the house and army of Saul
2. They committed: “we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD” (20:42).
-to God (Chapter 14)
-to each other’s best: “Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself” (18:3); “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do for you” (20:4)
-to each other’s future and family (20:12-17, 42).
3. They experienced:
-Protection by watching out for each other (Ch. 20)
-Openness and trust – they could share anything (20:3)
-Friendship and fellowship (20:42, and generally implied throughout their story)
-Strength and encouragement in times of difficult: “Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God” (23:16)
-Love that was committed to the other’s best, even if it meant personal sacrifice
“Don’t be afraid ….My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king … I will be second to you” (23:17)
-Sharpening and challenge to follow God
Do you have a friendship like this? I bet each area could always use a bit of strengthening. I’d encourage you to spend a few moments thinking about what area you are doing well in and what area you’d like to focus your energies on. If you’re brave enough, tell your friend what you see them succeeding in. As good friends, it can be tempting to allow suspicion and distrust to form by focusing on your differences. Instead, focus on what you have in common: a common faith, dear and close friendships and a desire to grow into all that God has for you.
Do you realize you are a peer co-mentor?
Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.:.
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