The contrast between Saul and his son Jonathan is again remarkably manifest in this section of the story. As the son of Saul, Jonathan was the natural heir to the throne. He had more reason to be jealous of David even than his father did. But Jonathan’s perspective differs. He is able to see that David is God’s choice, and he not only accepts this, he celebrates it! He is more than happy to take second place behind David. One of the ways in which human dysfunctionality is evident is in the breakdown of relationships. Rather than working to promote one another, as we should, we so easily find ourselves competing with one another, vying for recognition and control. It therefore stands out when someone refuses to play this game and goes against this seemingly universal human inclination with such freedom and joy. The writer of the books of Samuel is clearly celebrating Jonathan’s integrity and freedom in this respect. As you read this, ask yourself the question: “Who would I rather be, Jonathan or Saul?” The next question you should ask yourself is, “Am I prepared to take second place? Am I prepared to prefer and promote others over myself?” To be able to do this is to live in freedom. This attitude also enables us to recognise God’s work and releases us to flow peacefully and joyfully with what God is doing.
Commit yourself to being like Jonathan.
Read 1 Samuel 23:7-29
