Unlikely Friendships

From 1 Samuel 18 we start to discover the unlikely friendship of David and Jonathon develop. The depth of friendship they have is beautiful. They have genuine love and respect for one another, they understand each other and admire one another. They share mutual respect, one doesn't consider himself above or beneath the other. Don't you find that fascinating considering one is a shepherd, the other a prince? 

David, a shepherd, basically lived and grew up on the family farm, probably doing all the medial tasks that no one else wanted to do because he's the youngest. He was often overlooked - he wasn't even invited to the party when Samuel visited. He must of spent a lot of time alone, often not even invited to dinner. Jonathon on the other hand was raised as the son of a king. Prince from birth he lived in the royal court, surrounded by people of influence and authority. He had been learning the ways of the kingdom from childhood. Trained for battle, a capable young man with authority and respect. He ate at the kings table, he didn't need an invite!

So, how did these two form this unlikely friendship? 

Their heritage, background, knowledge and experiences are so different so what is there to connect them? Not just connect them - but connect them in the mutually supportive way that they did. They considered themselves closer to one another than their own family. We see that when Jonathon sticks up for David to his Dad, and David, when in trouble, runs to Jonathon first. They truly trust, honour and love one another. They developed something deeper than the common friendship. 

So, how did they develop this unlikely friendship? What connects them? Their social status doesn't, their worldly knowledge doesn't, nor do their experiences or their upbringing. 

The common link I see is that they are both mighty men of faith. 

The first time we really meet Jonathon he is a mighty, God-fearing hero as he and his armour bearer go against a Philistine garrison. David, well, we know he went against a giant Philistine in the name of God. With little else to hope for or to guarantee their victories they both had faith in their God. They were both mighty, God-fearing heroes. Men of Godly courage. This faith is what connects them. 

It doesn't matter what differences they had, they have the commonality of a deep and true faith that they not only believed, but lived with courage. This kind of connection overcomes so many differences. This is the beauty of the church - All people are welcome - all people of any nation, background, social standing or experience are welcomed into God's family. The church is where unlikely friendships can grow as you come together as God-fearing heroes, courageously living your life for God.

Where are your unlikely friendships? 

Who are your God-fearing heroes? 

Who do you connect with that if it wasn't for faith you wouldn't have much in common? 

Enjoy and appreciate these people, they will stand with you, strengthen you and protect you throughout your life -  just like Jonathon and David.