An old saying goes, "If you want to have a friend, be one." The Bible puts it this way: "A man who has friends must himself be friendly" (Proverbs 18:24). It's called "taking the initiative." Jonathan didn't choose to have David as a friend; he chose to be a friend to David. There's a big difference!

He didn't operate on the basis of his need and demand David's attention. Rather, he operated on the basis of supplying David's need. Ruth was this way with her mother-in-law Naomi. When Naomi was ready to leave Moab alone, Ruth reached out ... (Continued)