What does Jonathan's trust in David teach us about faith in God's plans? Setting the scene: arrows and allegiance “Then Jonathan called to his young boy and said, “Run, find now the arrows which I shoot.” And as the boy ran, he shot an arrow beyond him.” (1 Samuel 20:36) • Saul’s murderous jealousy has forced David into hiding. • Jonathan, heir apparent, chooses loyalty to God’s anointed friend over royal privilege. • The arrow-signal plan puts Jonathan at personal risk, yet he follows through without hesitation. Jonathan’s trust displayed • Obedience without delay – he shoots “beyond” the lad exactly as agreed, confident David will understand. • Sacrificial loyalty – by siding with David he surrenders his own path to the throne (cf. 1 Samuel 23:17). • Confidence in the Lord’s word – Jonathan knows God has chosen David (1 Samuel 16:1, 13) and aligns himself accordingly. What faith in God’s plans looks like 1. Anchoring in covenant, not convenience – Jonathan and David had “made a covenant before the LORD” (1 Samuel 18:3-4; 20:16-17). – Faith rests on God’s promises, not shifting circumstances (Psalm 89:34). 2. Putting God’s kingdom first – Jonathan steps aside for God’s appointed king, mirroring Jesus’ call to “deny himself” (Luke 9:23). – Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” 3. Acting before seeing the outcome – Jonathan signals the warning while Saul’s wrath still rages. – Hebrews 11:1: “faith is the assurance of what we hope for, the certainty of what we do not see.” 4. Risking reputation and security – Aligning with David labels Jonathan a traitor in Saul’s court (1 Samuel 20:30-33). – Proverbs 29:25 contrasts fear of man with trust in the LORD. 5. Trusting God’s timing – Jonathan never lives to see David crowned, yet dies confident God will finish what He started (1 Samuel 23:17; 31:2). – Philippians 1:6: “He who began a good work… will perfect it.” Practical takeaways for today • Yield personal ambition whenever it conflicts with God’s revealed purpose. • Keep covenant loyalty with believers even when culture pressures compromise. • Step out in obedience though the full picture is hidden. • Remember God’s plans may outlast our lifetimes—faith welcomes future fulfillment (Hebrews 11:13). |
    |