Finally, Jonathan instructs his friend to continue to follow God's plan. "Oil and perfume make the heart glad: so a man's counsel is sweet to his friend" (Proverbs 27:9). Although Saul is infuriated with the temerity of his son and continues his vendetta against David, Jonathan reassures his friend that "you shall not die" (1 Samuel 20:2). As far as Jonathan is concerned, no one, including his father, will harm David. Jonathan "loved him as he loved his own soul" (1 Samuel 20:17). When David finally had to flee from Saul his foe, Jonathan tells him to "go in safety... the Lord will be between me and you, and between my descendants and your descendants for ever" (1 Samuel 20:42).
For months, Saul hunts for David as prey, but God protects him from death. He "did not deliver him in his hand" (1 Samuel 23:14). One last time, Jonathan seeks out his friend in the forest. "Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend" (Proverbs 27:17). During this last visit, Jonathan "went to David and strengthened his hand in God" (1 Samuel 23:16). Again, he acknowledges the providence and plan of God by proclaiming that David "will be king over Israel; and I will be next to you" (1 Samuel 23:17). This meeting proved to be the last fellowship between friends. Lurking in the background, the Philistines again attack the Israelites. This time, side by side, the king and his faithful son fight gallantly together; and valiantly, both are killed in the line of battle (1 Samuel 31:6).
David has lost a loyal friend and laments his death. "Your beauty, O Israel, is slain on the high places: how have the mighty fallen... the bow of Jonathan did not turn back, and the sword of Saul did not return empty. Saul and Jonathan, beloved and pleasant in their life, and in their death they were not parted... I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan; you have been very pleasant to me, your love to me was more wonderful than the love of women" (2 Samuel 1:17-27). Three times, David acknowledges that the "mighty" have "fallen" (2 Samuel 1:19, 25, 27). David may have been relieved but never rejoiced over the death of Saul. "Do not rejoice when you enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles" (Proverbs 24:17).
Truly, Jonathan's friendship paved the way for David's future as king. And David will not forget that fervent fellowship that he enjoyed with Jonathan, as well as the covenant made with his courageous comrade. Jonathan's son, Mephibosheth, was honored and given the privilege to eat "regularly" at the king's "table" (2 Samuel 9:10). The memory of Jonathan will never be forgotten, for David will remember that companionship every time he communes with Jonathan's son. May we follow this wonderful example of best friends forever!
Rob Zapotoski,
SMS International Field Representative
