Friendship is one of the great topics of the Bible (Proverbs 17:17; Ecclesiastes 4:9-11). Who are your friends? Who are the people that you trust, confide in, and allow to help you navigate through life?

David was someone who knew how to pick the right kinds of friends. His companions epitomized what godly friendship is all about. Let’s consider two great friends of David.

Jonathan

  • When Saul tried to take David’s life unjustly, Jonathan stood up to his father (1 Samuel 19:1-6). He refused to carry out his father’s evil plot to kill David. Jonathan was a man who always stood for righteousness.
  • Jonathan was also very loyal to David (1 Samuel 20:1-4). Even when he disagrees with David about Saul, he promises never to betray him. He expresses his love for David. He accepts that David will be the next king of Israel (unlike Saul), and he begs his friends not to kill him once he ascends to the throne.
  • Jonathan was also a great encourager (1 Samuel 23:15-16). When David flees and goes into hiding from Saul, Jonathan “encouraged him in God.” He was a godly friend who used the wisdom of the Lord to strengthen David.
  • Do you have Jonathans in your life? Do you have friends who stand against God and promote the will of God? Do you have loyal friends? Do you have friends who encourage you in God?
  • Are you a Jonathan in the lives of others?

Nathan

  • Nathan was the prophet who confronted David about his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:1-7).
  • He was not some random prophet who popped out of nowhere to talk with David. He and the king had a friendship and relationship before this moment (2 Samuel 7:1-17).
  • Exposing David’s sins carried many risks (Nathan could have been imprisoned and killed). But his love for God and David helped overcome those risks.
  • After exercising the courage to confront David, the king repented. He confessed his sins and got back on the right spiritual track.
  • Do you have a Nathan? Do you have someone who won’t turn the other way when he notices that you are doing something wrong? Do you have someone who will always have enough love to help you whenever you start wandering away from God (Ephesians 4:15)?
  • How do you treat your Nathan? Do you listen to him? Do you humbly accept his help?

Conclusion:

The greatest friend we could ever have is Jesus. Have you accepted His friendship on His terms (John 15:14)?