1 Samuel 23:18

So the two of them made a covenant before the LORD. And David remained in Horesh, while Jonathan went home.

Study Bible

So the two of them made a covenant
The act of making a covenant in ancient Israel was a solemn and binding agreement, often involving a sacred ritual. The Hebrew word for covenant, "berith," implies a deep commitment and mutual obligation. In the context of David and Jonathan, this covenant signifies a profound friendship and loyalty that transcends personal ambition or political gain. Their covenant is a testament to the power of godly relationships, where mutual support and faithfulness are prioritized. This act of covenant-making reflects the biblical principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" indicates that this covenant was not merely a personal agreement but was made in the presence of God, invoking His witness and blessing. In ancient Israel, invoking the LORD in a covenant added a divine dimension, underscoring the seriousness and sanctity of the promise. This highlights the belief that God is an active participant in the lives of His people, overseeing and blessing their commitments. It serves as a reminder that all our relationships and promises should be made with an awareness of God's presence and guidance.

And David remained in Horesh
Horesh, located in the wilderness of Ziph, was a place of refuge for David as he fled from King Saul. The name "Horesh" means "forest" or "wooded area," suggesting a place of concealment and protection. David's stay in Horesh symbolizes a period of waiting and trusting in God's provision and timing. Despite the danger he faced, David's faith in God's promises remained steadfast. This setting serves as a metaphor for the spiritual wilderness experiences believers may encounter, where reliance on God's protection and guidance is paramount.

while Jonathan went home
Jonathan's return home signifies a temporary separation between the two friends, yet their covenant ensured that their bond remained unbroken. Jonathan's loyalty to David, despite his own royal lineage, exemplifies selflessness and integrity. His willingness to support David, even at personal cost, reflects the biblical call to put others' needs above one's own. This parting also foreshadows the trials David would continue to face, emphasizing the theme of enduring faith and friendship amidst adversity. Jonathan's actions remind believers of the importance of standing by God's anointed, even when it requires personal sacrifice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point, he is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him.

2. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Despite his father's animosity towards David, Jonathan remains loyal to David and supports him.

3. Horesh
A location in the Desert of Ziph where David was hiding from Saul. It is a place of refuge and strategic importance during David's flight.

4. Covenant
A solemn agreement made before the LORD, signifying a deep bond and commitment between David and Jonathan, rooted in their mutual faith and loyalty.

5. The LORD
The covenant is made before God, emphasizing the spiritual and sacred nature of their agreement.

Teaching Points

The Power of Godly Friendship
Jonathan and David's relationship exemplifies the strength and support found in friendships rooted in faith. Such friendships can provide encouragement and strength during trials.

Covenant Commitment
The covenant made before the LORD underscores the importance of making commitments with God as a witness. This teaches us to take our promises seriously, especially those made in His name.

Faithfulness Amidst Trials
Despite the danger and opposition, Jonathan remains faithful to David. This challenges us to remain loyal and supportive to our friends, even when it is difficult.

Trusting God's Plan
David's trust in God's plan is evident as he remains in Horesh. We are reminded to trust in God's timing and provision, even when circumstances seem dire.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the friendship between David and Jonathan challenge our understanding of loyalty and support in our own relationships?

2. In what ways can we make and honor covenants or commitments in our lives today, ensuring they are made before the LORD?

3. How can we cultivate friendships that are rooted in faith and mutual encouragement, similar to that of David and Jonathan?

4. What can we learn from David's trust in God's plan while he was in Horesh, and how can we apply this trust in our current life situations?

5. How does the concept of covenant in the Old Testament relate to the New Covenant established by Jesus, and what implications does this have for our daily walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:3
This earlier passage describes the initial covenant between David and Jonathan, highlighting the depth of their friendship and mutual commitment.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the nature of true friendship, which is exemplified in the relationship between David and Jonathan.

John 15:13
Jesus speaks of the greatest love being to lay down one's life for friends, a principle that Jonathan embodies in his support for David.