1 Samuel 23:16
“Jonathan, Saul’s son, arose, and went to David into the woods, and strengthened his hand in God.”
What does 1 Samuel 23:16 mean?
Jonathan shows up for David at one of his darkest moments, when David is hiding in the wilderness and hunted by his own father. Instead of standing with his father the king, Jonathan seeks out his friend and reminds him that God is still trustworthy. Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do for someone struggling is simply to show up, sit with them, and help them remember that God hasn't abandoned them. Jonathan's loyalty here cost him everything eventually, but in this moment he chose friendship and faith over safety and status.