This is the love of a precious friend!

Although Saul, the father of Jonathan, was jealous of David (1 Samuel 18:9),

and fearful of him (v. 12), and even sought to kill him (vv. 10, 17-21),

Jonathan, who deeply loved David and cherished him greatly (vv. 1, 3), tried to save him.

Jonathan warned David, saying, "My father Saul is looking for a chance to kill you.

Be on your guard tomorrow morning; go into hiding and stay there" (v. 2).

Not only that, but Jonathan also praised David to his father Saul, saying,

"Do not sin against your servant David; he has not wronged you,

and what he has done has benefited you greatly.

He took his life in his hands when he killed the Philistine.

The Lord won a great victory for all Israel, and you saw it and were glad.

Why then would you do wrong to an innocent man like David

by killing him for no reason?" (vv. 4-5).

When I meditate on this passage:

(1) Jonathan disobeyed his father's command (v. 1).

I am reminded of the biblical instruction to obey our parents but to do so in the Lord

(Ephesians 6:1).

(2) Jonathan helped David in his time of need.

True friendship shines brightest in times of crisis.

(3) It's remarkable that Jonathan praised David to his father Saul,

who was seeking to kill David out of murderous jealousy.

It would have taken immense love and courage to do so.

In this way, a true friend, motivated by genuine love, lays down their life

(prepared for the consequences) to rescue their friend from danger.

It's undeniable evidence of precious friendship.