“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.” 1 Samuel 18: 3, 4. (NKJV).
“Hold it, Grandfather. Isn’t Jonathan the next king?” Grandfather removed his glasses.
“Right. Prince Jonathan, King Saul’s son, was next in line. But we see a picture here that changes everything. “Jonathan and David entered into a covenant or agreement. That day they exchanged robes which represented the person. Then the armor and sword—protection, and the belt--”
“I wouldn’t give my sword away.”
“A difficult decision and one not entered into without soul-searching. 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. Maybe Samuel, the prophet, told him. He trusted David and knew the Lord God was with him.”
“That’s important?”
“The most important thing we will ever learn is the Lord Jesus is with us—forever.
“I thought it only a story until I met the Lord Jesus and realized He is my Jonathan. He willingly gave up His place in Heaven to come to earth and exchange places with me. No way could I be in the royal family--until the Lord Jesus came with his invitation of forgiveness, grace and love.”
“I believe, Grandfather. Will the Lord Jesus be my Jonathan, too?” Grandfather put his arm around Timmy’s shoulder, eyes shining.
“I wouldn’t give my sword away.”
“A difficult decision and one not entered into without soul-searching. 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. Maybe Samuel, the prophet, told him. He trusted David and knew the Lord God was with him.”
“That’s important?”
“The most important thing we will ever learn is the Lord Jesus is with us—forever.
“I thought it only a story until I met the Lord Jesus and realized He is my Jonathan. He willingly gave up His place in Heaven to come to earth and exchange places with me. No way could I be in the royal family--until the Lord Jesus came with his invitation of forgiveness, grace and love.”
“I believe, Grandfather. Will the Lord Jesus be my Jonathan, too?” Grandfather put his arm around Timmy’s shoulder, eyes shining.
“Absolutely. You can trust our Lord.”
“That’s what I want to do, but…”
“What have you done?"
“I admitted I'm a sinner.” Grandfather nodded. “I asked the Lord Jesus to forgive my sins and to come into my life—to be my Lord and Savior…”
“And?”
“I’m still not sure. I didn’t feel anything.”
“That’s okay, Timmy. The Lord Jesus made the covenant when He gave His Life for mine, for yours, on the cross. You decide to trust Him with everything. The Lord Jesus will do the rest.”
“Thank you, Lord Jesus, for loving me and being my Jonathan. I put my trust in You forever. Amen”
“Amen.” Grandfather hugged him really tight.
Kingdom Thinking. The Lord Jesus made the grand exchange for me. He took my sin, paid it in full. He loves me with an everlasting love and promises never to leave nor forsake me. He offers the same to you. Won’t you come to Him?