Thursday, July 7, 2016

THE COVENANT

In 1 Samuel 18:3-4, we read: “Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan took off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, even to his sword and his bow and his belt.”

“Grandfather, why would Jonathan do that? Isn’t he the next king?” Grandfather removed his glasses, placed them on his Bible.

“You’re right. Prince Jonathan, the son of King Saul, would be next in line to become king. But we see a picture here when Jonathan and David entered into a covenant. In a way, they were exchanging places. That day they made an agreement. The robe represented the person. The armor, the sword and the belt were treasured items--”

“Whoa, Grandfather. I wouldn’t give my sword away.”

“I agree--a difficult decision. These instruments of power and protection, usually surrendered to the enemy, Jonathan gave gladly, as he transferred his royal power from Saul’s family to David.”

“Why would he do that?”

“Jonathan knew David would be the next king.” Grandfather held up his hand. “I don’t know how he knew. Maybe Samuel, the prophet told him. But he trusted David to make the right decisions and knew The Lord God was with him.”

“That’s really important?”

“The most important thing we will ever learn is that the Lord Jesus is with us--forever.”

It was only a story until I met the Lord Jesus and realized that He is my Jonathan. He willingly gave up His place in Heaven to come to earth and exchange places with me. There was no way I could be in the royal family--until the Lord Jesus came with his invitation of forgiveness, grace and love.

Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus promises the same to you. He loves you with an everlasting love and He promises never to leave nor forsake you. Won’t you come to Him? He’s waiting.