Love for One AnotherInclusive Love
Live in the light of God (Isaiah 2:5) Love and Devotion to Others1 Samuel 18:1-5
New International VersionSaul’s Growing Fear of David18 After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. 2 From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return home to his family. 3 And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4 Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow, and his belt. 5 Whatever mission Saul sent him on, David was so successful that Saul gave him a high rank in the army. This pleased all the troops, and Saul’s officers as well. For ReflectionMost people who have worked in a large organization understand the question, "Do you have a rabbi?" The question does not refer to a Jewish spiritual leader. It refers to a high-status friend, someone who has influence and will speak to superior authorities, lending their credibility on your behalf.
Prince Jonathan, Saul's eldest son, became very close friends. But Jonathan was not a friend only for David's access to power. This friendship was as deep as one's love for a brother, or a father's love for his son. “Anyone who establishes a friendship for access to power, money, or sexual relations; when these ends are not attainable, the friendship ceases…love that is not dependent on selfish ends is true love of the other person since there is no intended end.” (Rabbi Shimon ben Tzemach Duran (Spain, North Africa 14th-15th century)) PrayPray so that you will develop friendships grounded in the love that God holds for you.
Forward to a friend
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