The Marks of a True Friend

Scripture:
“And Jonathan Saul’s son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God.”
— 1 Samuel 23:16

Quote:
President Thomas S. Monson taught:
“The friends you choose will either help or hinder your success.”

Reflection:
After David defeated Goliath, he became popular very quickly. People praised him. Saul brought him into his house. David’s life changed almost overnight.

That kind of situation could have created jealousy, competition, pride, or insecurity.

And it did — in Saul.

But not in Jonathan.

Jonathan was Saul’s son. He could have looked at David as a threat. David’s success could have made Jonathan bitter or jealous. Instead, Jonathan loved David, protected David, defended David, and strengthened David’s faith.

That is what true friends do.

A true friend does not secretly hope you fail.
A true friend does not compete with your goodness.
A true friend does not pull you away from God.
A true friend helps you become more faithful, more courageous, and more like Jesus Christ.

Jonathan even spoke good of David when David was not there. That is one of the clearest marks of a true friend. Anyone can be kind to your face. A real friend protects your name when you are absent.

Jonathan also warned David when danger was coming. Sometimes true friends have to say hard things. They may lovingly tell you when they are worried about you. They may help you see a path that is leading you away from who you want to become.

Those are the friends worth keeping.

And those are the friends worth becoming.

Today’s Challenge:
Think about your closest friendships. Choose one friend you can strengthen this week. Send an encouraging message, speak good about them to someone else, invite them to do something uplifting, or simply let them know you are grateful for them.

Come Follow Me for Teens:
As you study Jonathan and David’s friendship, look for what Jonathan did that showed he cared more about David’s faith and future than his own position.