SATURDAY June 15, 2019
From Friend to Enemy
Then Saul was very angry, and the saying displeased him; and he said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed only thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?” So Saul eyed David from that day forward.
1 Samuel 18:8-9
Jonathan was a godly young man who made a covenant with David. They would remain close friends. Jonathan’s father, King Saul, was a man who was ruled by his flesh––his carnal desires. When he listened to the women’s praises in Israel, he became angry. In song, they had placed more emphasis on David’s victories; he had slain ten thousands, whereas Saul had only slain thousands. King Saul became jealous of David, and from that point forward, he eyed him. Saul watched David’s every move in the kingdom.
What should it be like to have a genuine friendship like Jonathan and David in the ministry? A friendship that develops in the Lord will have true love and forgiveness between each other. Understand, our friendships are no longer to be worldly; they must be Christ-centered relationships.
When friends fellowship, they should edify and build each other up. The main subject of their conversation should be about the Lord. Fellowship is never a time to gossip about other believers. Christians should never pick at another person’s faults, because a Christ-like love will overlook another’s weaknesses. It is sad when Christians try to destroy other Christians when we are on the same team.
When this happens, ministry can become such a hard place. What should you do when a friendship turns sour, especially when someone you looked up to begins to turn against you, like Saul’s attitude turned towards David? How can you guard your own heart from becoming bitter? In ministry, you cannot be afraid of getting hurt. It is important to forgive these people and pray for them to repent.
Forgiveness is the key that unlocks the door of resentment and the handcuffs of hatred. It is a power that breaks the chains of bitterness and the hackles of selfishness.
~Corrie ten Boom~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!