September 7th, 2026

Jonathan understood that if his friendship with David was to survive it had to be a covenant relationship. Better than anyone he understood his father’s jealousy and his rages. He realized it was only a matter of time before Saul would turn on David so “…Jonathan made a covenant with David” (1 Samuel 18:3). This covenant—this commitment to the friendship at all costs—enabled their friendship to survive the jealousy of Jonathan’s father Saul, and his determined attempts to take David’s life.

“If I make it through this alive, continue to be my covenant friend. And if I die, keep the covenant friendship with my family—forever.”

— 1 Samuel 20:16 (MSG)

Lord, give me the strength and character to stand by my friend when adversity strikes, when he needs me most. Amen.