Building Healthy Relationships

Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 Saul took him that day, and would not let him go home to his father’s house anymore. 3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. 4 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. I Samuel 18:1-4

Genuine friends are rare treasures. However, the Lord created us for meaningful relationships; it’s difficult to flourish if we live in isolation. By design, we are made to share life with others, as well as to give and receive love.

Surface friendships don’t satisfy this need. But unfortunately, many people never experience anything deeper. This is why so many individuals are lonely--even if they’re always surrounded by others.

What some men and women don’t realize is that healthy relationships require diligent work. Once God brings the right people into our lives, we must devote time and effort for appropriate and fruitful intimacy to develop.

In the book of 1 Samuel, David and Jonathan exemplify this type of closeness, although they seemed like improbable companions: David was merely a shepherd, whereas Jonathan was a prince. But to them, status did not matter. In addition to humility, they demonstrated great respect for each other’s faith and courageous love of Israel. The two felt as committed as brothers and gave of themselves generously. For example, Jonathan gave David his robe—a prized possession of the king’s son—in order to show his loyalty and love. The prince even risked his life and reputation in order to save his friend (1 Sam 20:27-32).

Do you have a person like this--someone with whom to share your joys and sorrows, strengths and weaknesses, fears and pain? Thankfully, Jesus is the best friend we can have. But He also desires that we have close relationships with others. What can you do today to build this type of friendship?

Father, Thank You for the gift of good friends. Help me to realize how important these relationships are to my life. Teach me how to build closer bonds with those whom You have placed in my path. Show me how to be a loyal friend, while keeping true to myself and to You. In Jesus' Name~Amen