Few things are more satisfying in life than a good friendship. When someone knows us, accepts us for who we are, and listens to us, we immediately feel that we’ve found a friend. Jonathan was such a friend to David.

“Then Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God. And he said to him, ‘Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel, and I shall be next to you. Even my father Saul knows that.’” (1 Samuel 23:16–17, NKJV)

What made Jonathan such a good friend?

First, Jonathan went to David. He left the comforts of his home and sought David in the woods. He didn’t wait for David to come to him. This sent a strong message that Jonathan was deeply concerned for David’s welfare.

Second, Jonathan strengthened David’s hand in God. We all can benefit from the encouragement of a friend, but Jonathan went beyond this. By strengthening David’s hand in God, Jonathan left David with a constant means of support. It was God who had strengthened David in the past and would continue to strengthen him in the future.

Third, Jonathan comforted David. He knew that David was greatly afraid of being killed by Saul his father. He assured David that Saul would never find him, for God was protecting him.

Fourth, Jonathan reminded David of his calling. Jonathan knew that God had called David to be king and that nothing could stop this. He would be next to David—not to compete with him but to serve him.

As I look over these four qualities of a good friend, I realize that this is what the Lord has done for each of us. That is why He is the Friend who stays closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24). How can we be such a friend to someone else? If that person isn’t saved, it’s the best way to win him or her to Christ.