By all human standards, Jonathan should hate David with a passion. After all, Jonathan's father, Saul, is the king of Israel, and Saul has decided that David is too much of a threat to his reign. David is just too successful and too popular. And even worse, rumor has it that God has designated David as the next king of Israel. According to the normal progression of things, that honor should go to Jonathan. Yes, Jonathan should be furious that this young shepherd is set to usurp his throne. He should be joining with his father to try to eliminate this nuisance.
But Jonathan does not hate David. In fact, he loves David far more than he loves himself. The friendship between these two men has only grown over time, and it is deep and secure. Jonathan defends the innocent David before Saul (receiving Saul's angry insults in the process), warns David of danger, and helps David flee.
Indeed, David and Jonathan make a covenant, binding themselves in friendship for as long as they live. Jonathan easily places himself second to David in authority, acknowledging God's choice over his own honor and committing himself to the love of friendship above all worldly glory.
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