Q3. Jonathan's Encouragement

[Pastor Ralph]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? What risk is there for David? What risk is there for Jonathan? What do you think it meant to David? Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

[Commissioned]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? What risk is there for David? What risk is there for Jonathan? What do you think it meant to David? Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Jonathan visits David in the wilderness and encouraged him. Johnathan's presence did not present a risk to David as Johnathan kept his covenant to protect David from his father, Saul. Johnathan on the other hand is in danger of his father turning against him. Johnathan's coming to comfort david drew David closer to God and reminded him of his destiny.

[EYJackson]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? What risk is there for David? What risk is there for Jonathan? What do you think it meant to David? Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

I believe that Jonathan visits David in the wilderness because they are bound and beloved to one another. He visits to encourage David, to assure David that Saul will not kill him. I think Jonathan also intentionally sought David so that they could renew their covenant. If I were in Jonathan's sandals, I would want David to know that no matter what my father did, I would not let him hurt David and that all of that stuff did not affect a single iota of what I felt for him.

I think their meeting was risky for both of them. Jonathan could be tried, convicted, and killed for committing treason. David was already a wanted man, and so Saul's version of the rules of engagement alone guaranteed that Saul would kill David. As Dr. Wilson pointed out, Saul's spies were everywhere. How Saul's son managed to meet with Saul's enemy of the state, without dying in the process, is truly an example of God's Hand at work.

I think this visit meant more to David than words can express. Imagine a chance meeting between a Hatfield child and a McCoy child just before the feuding began. You become close, blood-brothers and/or blood-sisters. Then, the feud breaks out. One of you has to leave to protect the other. One of you has to stay behind, so as not to be seen as disloyal, and get murdered because of it.

To be a McCoy and have your Hatfield best friend sneak off and visit you, while the woods are crawlilng with Hatfield loyalists -- and you both getting away with -- would be its own reward and a rich joy for you both. It's one of those things that when someone asks you whether it was worth it, you say "yes," regardless of the outcome.

I have, in fact, received an unexpected visit from a friend, just when I needed it the most. When that happens, my soul cries, "Yes! God is good!"

[IvoryEagle]

Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? GOD DIRECTS IT TO ENCOURAGE DAVID.

What risk is there for David? SAUL COULD FIND OUT AND BE LED TO HIM. HE COULD BE KILLED.

What risk is there for Jonathan? SAME AS DAVID.

What do you think it meant to David? EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most? YES.

[Gerbrand van Schalkwyk]

Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

God knew David needed support, so he sent it in the form of his best friend. For jonathan it would have been good to see that his friend was still alive and well, and to just catch up with what was happening to him

David needed this visit to know there is still hope, God is still with him and his friends are still supporting him.

What risk is there for David?

Saul could have followed his son and found David. There was also the outside chance that Jonathan might have forgotten his promise and could have used this oppertunity to ensure his future kingdom.

What risk is there for Jonathan? His father would surely have killed him if he knew his son went behind his back to his ennemy, or the man he saw as an ennemy, remember, David was never Saul 's ennemy, because he said Saul was anointed by God.

What do you think it meant to David? This was huge encouragement. He must have felt ontop of the world. He also knew he was still in God's will.

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most? I'm sure everybody has

[Semeion]

Jonathan visits David in the wilderness to "help him find strength in God"(v.16). There are risks though: Saul could kill them both. I am quite sure David needed this source of strength. I can't say the same for myself as far as having a true friend pray for me and be there for me, besides my husband of course.

Friends have come through for me only after I called for help or pleaded with them...and other times not at all.

[Semeion]

Jonathan visits David in the wilderness to "help him find strength in God"(v.16). There are risks though: Saul could kill them both. I am quite sure David needed this source of strength. I can't say the same for myself as far as having a true friend pray for me and be there for me, besides my husband of course.

Friends have come through for me only after I called for help or pleaded with them...and other times not at all.

[haar]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? What risk is there for David? What risk is there for Jonathan? What do you think it meant to David? Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Jonathan visited David to encourage him. He reassured David that his father would not kill him and renewed his covenant with his friend David.

The risk that was there for David was the possibility of Saul trailing Jonathan to David. Perhaps Jonathan could also change his mind and betray David and hand him over to Saul, his father.

The risk to Jonathan could have also been the possibility of Saul finding out that Jonathan had contact with David and then kill him.

[Rhndwsh]

Q 4.1 God sent Jonathan to encourage David.

Jonthan tells David "Don't be afraid-my fathet will not lay a hand on you. You will be King over Israel, and I will be

Second to you. Even my father Saul knows this". (23:17)

2. Saul capturing and killjng him

3. His father killing him because he is on David side and warning him against his father.

4. Yes! We all have

[parkerslope]

Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

I believe it has been a while since Jonathan has seen David and feels that David must be weary from trying to keep away from Saul's army. Jonathan has been traveling with the army and he sees a chance to encourage David and does.

What risk is there for David?

I assume that the question is about Jonathan coming to see David. And the risk is high, in that someone could have followed Jonathan and found out where David was staying.

What risk is there for Jonathan?

Someone in Saul's army may not like King Saul much, not care about Jonathan being his son. Then when this person sees Jonathan sneaking out, and follows him to David's camp; he can believe that Jonathan is a traitor.

[parkerslope]

Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

I believe it has been a while since Jonathan has seen David and feels that David must be weary from trying to keep away from Saul's army. Jonathan has been traveling with the army and he sees a chance to encourage David and does.

What risk is there for David?

I assume that the question is about Jonathan coming to see David. And the risk is high, in that someone could have followed Jonathan and found out where David was staying.

What risk is there for Jonathan?

Someone in Saul's army may not like King Saul much, not care about Jonathan being his son. Then when this person sees Jonathan sneaking out, and follows him to David's camp; he can believe that Jonathan is a traitor.

What do you think it meant to David?

It was a very strong encouragement that strengthened David's determination to keep alive and not be caught.

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Yes, I have. Sometimes when I feel discouraged, God always sends a visit - a phone call - a scripture, that opens up the flood gates of joy in my heart.

[Travis63]

(1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

Verse 16 And Jonathan, Saul's son, arose and went to David at Horesh, and encouraged him in God.

It is amazing that Jonathan was able to meet with David and David with Jonathan, David was in hiding. The Scriptures does not say that God sent Jonathan, it says that Jonathan arose and went. We can infer and or believe that the Scriptures imply that that God sent Jonathan. However the Scriptures says that he "arose and went."

This was a great example fidelity, love and concern between two friends to meet under such circumstances. How was this accomplished, the two had to have had some form of communication. There had to have been others who were loyal and trustworthy as well. And most importantly God had to allow it, so that it could come to pass we cannot forget that He is and was David's Comfort. because we are not Spirit, God has and will until we are changed use people, Jonathan was the instrument that God allowed to encourage David.

Jonathan couldn't physically save or rescue David, nor could he provide the just right answer(s) or answer the probable why's. But what he gave was precious! He allowed God to use him. His father Saul had lost focus, he was encouraging David not to. Man can intend, attempt, and work all kinds of evil, but God is still in charge. Jonathan encouraged David in many ways, first just the fact of meeting with David, seeing a good friend is always comforting. Secondly they talked, it is always wonderful when a good friend has something edifying or positive to share. (Thus he said to him, "Do not be afraid, because the hand of Saul my father will not find you, and you will be king over Israel and I will be next to you; and Saul my father knows that also." ) Translation: God will protect you (2) you will be king and I will support you (3) my dad Saul knows all this. Translation: Sometime we hear this words and or we know these word, but like Peter we see the wind. My prayers are that we like Peter call out to Him even though!

What risk is there for David?

He risked being exposed, captured, killed and betraying those under his charge / care.

What risk is there for Jonathan?

His risk were similar to David's, his father Saul was a mad man, however add the fact that David's men perhaps may not have had the same confidence in Jonathan as did David, thereby they may have wished him harm.

What do you think it meant to David?

I think it meant a great deal to David and to Jonathan also.

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Yes

[Raph]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18)

Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

Jonathan visits David in the wilderness as he was sent by God to go and encourage him. David was afraid of his life and of his people as he was being persistently pursued by king Saul.

What risk is there for David?

The risk that is there for David is the betrayal, maybe not by Jonathan himself, but by the soldiers of Saul who escorted Jonathan.

What risk is there for Jonathan?

The risk that is there for jonathan is being killed by David's soldiers who know exactly that their suffereing is caused by King Saul, Jonathan's father.

What do you think it meant to David?

To David, this visit meant alot. He was assured of his safety and support from Jonathan. All this restored to him courage which was engulfed by fear.

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Although I can't exactly remember such a visit, I can only figure out how important to receive it. It encourages and takes you out of fear. It is like new life has been powered unto you.

[Sank T Monius]

1 Samuel 23:14-18

Q). Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

A). God sends Jonathan to encourage David...Jonathan "helped him find strength in God" (23:16). Observe Jonathan's words: "Don't be afraid. My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be second to you. Even my father Saul knows this." (23:17)

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Q). What risk is there for David?

A). Saul is after him, and Jonathan. Saul may capture or kill him.

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Q). What risk is there for Jonathan?

A). Saul is after him, and David. Saul may capture or kill him.

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Q). What do you think it meant to David?

A). I think it was comforting to David. Just like David had given comfort to others with his music..."Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;" -2 Corinthians 1:3

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Q). Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

A). Yes. Seemingly serendipitous meetings (too many to mention) have often led to a change of outlook and attitude when I have felt despondent or pessimistic. Looking back on those chance meetings, I believe they were arranged by God to restore my joy and peace of mind. He is truly the "God of all comfort". (See 2 Cor 1:3 in the previous question)

[JanMary]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

Jonathan went to encourage David, and to "Strengthen his hand in God", by saying "Fear not: the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel and I shall be next to you. Saul my father knows that too. Then they made another covenant before the Lord." v. 16-18

What risk is there for David? What risk is there for Jonathan?

The risk to David never changed...Saul was determined to kill him as further demonstrated through his massacre by sword of the entire city of Nob, just because Ahimelech "inquired of the Lord" for David. If Saul had known of Jonathan's visit to encourage David, it would only have added fuel to his fire of hatred.

The risk to Jonathan, would have been certain death! He had already sentenced Jonathan to death for having eaten a little honey, after Saul decreed death to anyone who ate food and having forced the men to take an oath regarding the order, in I Sam 14. The people stayed Saul's hand in defense of Jonathan, who hadn't heard his father's crazy order, and because the Lord used Jonathan and his armor bearer to cause the Philistines to scatter. This would have surely been the nail in Jonathan's coffin!

What do you think it meant to David? Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

I can only imagine what a blessing this was to David (and to his beloved friend to be used of the Lord), who may have felt totally abandoned! To see the face of one who loved him and only wanted God's will and best for David, must have moved him greatly! I can almost see David's tears as Jonathan conveyed and reaffirmed God's word to David.

The Lord has sent his messengers to me during a number of crises! In the early days of my walk when trouble came, my first reaction was to feel that God had abandoned or forgotten me. (He has healed that old wound from childhood abuse and neglect which was the familiar "fallback" emotion, to now, thankfulness that He trusts me to go through trials) The first time was as a brand new believer, when a Dr. told me it "looks like cancer", took a biopsy, which was then lost for 3 weeks, while I agonized in terror, having been told by my mother at a young age that I would probably die of cancer. The Lord sent a lady named Mary (she may have been an angel, since I didn't know her who came to my house every day to support, encourage, pray with me, feed me God's word, and to just "sit on the ash heap" of terror beside me, while waiting to hear the verdict, which in my mind was "Cancer: I die, no cancer, I live to continue caring for my two little ones. When the report came back "no cancer cells", Mary disappeared. I've had so many "encouragers" too many to count, over the years, but every one a precious gift of God's love and comfort to me.

[Guitar Jim]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

To encourage him. Jonathan reassures David that Saul won't succeed in killing him and that he'll become king.

What risk is there for David?

If anyone saw Jonathan meeting with David they could inform Saul.

What risk is there for Jonathan?

Saul had already tried to spear his son for being friends with David. Now, definitely not playing with a full deck, Saul might not hesitate to kill his own son and heir.

What do you think it meant to David?

Jonathan's visit was very timely. David was hard pressed at that time and a reassuring visit from his closest friend would certainly have boosted his spirits.

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Not in the same life and death circumstances as David, but yes. At times a friend has visited me when I really needed some company and moral support. Even a phone call from someone who is privy to my situation can be a real shot in the arm.

[Lion of Grace]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? What risk is there for David? What risk is there for Jonathan? What do you think it meant to David? Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Jonathan visits David to encourage him. To help him find strength in God. David was at a low point here and to have his friend come to support him (especially in the Lord) must have been refreshing.

The risk to David was being found. Saul could have tracked Jonathan to find David. I can't help but think also, how Jonathan, as Saul's son, would have been received by others in the camp. I can imagine some grumblings and suspicion surrounding that event.

The risk to Jonathan would have been from his father. Saul had become totally immersed in darkness by this time and Jonathan's disloyalty would have put him in a dangerous situation. I'm sure he was at risk from some of David's men too, just because he was Saul's relative!

I'm sure David was overwhelmed and grateful for Jonathan coming to see him. David was hounded and in a destitute situation. Jonathan's presence and assurance must have meant a lot to him. To be encouraged in the Lord and reassured of the throne by Saul's son was probably very refreshing. To experience the loyalty of his friend Jonathan and the risks he took to see David and to renew their covenant must have been a revival of his spirit.

Have I ever received a visit from a friend when I needed it most? Yes. I had a very loyal friend in my life and enjoyed great companionship with her until her untimely death. I could count on her to be there in any circumstance and she was there for me the times I needed someone the most. I've never had a friend on earth like her since and I know I was grateful for her when she was here with me and I honor her after she has passed. I look forward to seeing her again with joy. I can't go on though without saying Jesus has been that kind of friend to me. Always faithful, always true, always loving and available. I thank Him for being so close in any circumstance and I praise Him.

[hanks]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18)

Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

What risk is there for David?

What risk is there for Jonathan?

What do you think it meant to David?

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Jonathan, at great risk to his life, visits David to encourage him, and help David find strength in God. He assured David that God would surely make him king in His good time, and that David would always be delivered from Saul's schemes to capture him. This was their last recorded meeting. This visit must have been a great blessing to David and motivated him to carry on. It is so great to belong to this family of believers. To have our brothers and sisters support us, and spend time with us in our trials - to listen, to comfort, and to assure us in times of trouble - what a blessing!

[Thanking Joan]

Jonathan's visit to David is God led. Jonathan was aware of Davids struggle for his life. They had a covenant of love and to help each other in times of trouble. Joanathan visits his friend in the wilderness to assure him that he will be not harmed by his father Saul and no matter what he would end up being the King of Israel.

It was risky for both David and Jonathan as they could be killed by Saul.

Jonathan's visit to David meant everything. Here is David amidst such a big trial of life,running for his life .. probably weary and tired.. and here is Jonathan coming with words of love and ,encouragement . David is helped to find strength in his God. When we are alone and in the wilderness,a unexpected visit from a dear friend with words of comfort and assurance saying dont worry all is going to be well,you will come through it means quite quite a lot.

Yes. presently I too am facing a challenging situation. I know my victory is close.. I have a dear friend who is reading the word of God and promises over me everyday.

[Jwalane Mofokeng]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

Every time when we are in distress God is sending someone to strenthened us. that is why Jonathan was there to encourage David (send by God)

What risk is there for David?

David was afraidbecause Saul had come to kill him at Horesh in the desert of Ziph.

What risk is there for Jonathan?

Also for Jonathan Saul nearly killed him.

What do you think it meant to David?

A friend in times of distress it means a lot. Jonathan was a real friend

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Yes

[Delivered]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness?

Jonathan visits David because "IN GOD" they are soul mates, in covenant with each other.

This "LOVE" is not some kind of sexual love as the "WORLD" would describe it to be, no greater "LOVE" hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friend, it is this kind of love, the reason being - it is "IN GOD".

Jonathan made a covenant with David (1 Samuel 20:4) that he himself would bring the message David needed to hear, this is why Jonathan came to David; he was a man of his word.

The message Jonathan was bringing to David was that of "FAITH" - Jonathan wanted David to know that he was fully aware that David would be king, and he wanted to assure him that his father knew this also, but most important Jonathan wanted David to know "FIRST HAND" that he was very "PLEASED" with this, and not to fear for his father will not find him.

Jonathan also went to David in the wilderness to renew their oath of "PEACE” together and that David would deal kindly with his whole household forever, and they renewed the covenant they had made before in the name and fear of God, and as God being their witness.

What risk is there for David and for Jonathan?

Each and every day these men were faced with dire risks, but this time there was "PEACE" amongst the dangers that were all around them.

What do you think it meant to David?

A friend is one who speaks "FACE TO FACE" and that is what this true friend Jonathan did, I can't help but believe the meaning to David was GREAT, I have to wonder if it was an answer to the hearts cry of David as revealed in (Psalm 31:2-4)

Turn your ear to me,

come quickly to my rescue;

be my rock of REFUGE, a strong fortress to save me.

Since you are my rock and my fortress,

for the sake of your name lead and guide me.

Free me from the trap that is set for me,

for you are my refuge.

Godly friendship is to be mutual, as between David and Jonathan. Words of "PEACE “calms the troubled soul, I believe God was speaking through Jonathan, "God is his “REFUGE” therefore not to fear, for his father will not find him".

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most?

Yes there have been a "FEW" times, and there are no words to express my gratitude for them, but for most of the time it has been "THE HOLY SPIRIT" that has been there for me, and at times I wasn't even aware of it, how awesome is that.

[Willard]

Jonathan's purpose in visiting David in the wilderness was to encourage him. Both were in danger of Saul; the consequence of someone following Johathan and observing their meeting could have been the demise of both. David must have been filled with love for his friend who risked his own life to see him while he was all alone in the desert. Yes, I have received a visit from a dear friend(s) when I was alone and afraid. It meant the world to me because they came without my asking them. They just came and sat with me; a presence in my wilderness.

[Inez45]

Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? Jonathan wanted to encourage David that even though Saul and his men was definitely pursuing him and would have him killed when they caught him, he however did not have the same intention as his father and he knew David was going to be next king and he after. Jonathan also wanted to say goodbye to David and wish him well. What risk is there for David? David took a risk meeting Jonathan because Saul may have had his son followed or watched because he knew of his friendship with David. Also, David did not want to risk anything to happening to Jonathan because he helped him just like the others. What do you think it meant to David? I think it meant a lot to David to see Jonathan and receive the words of encouragement and make the covenant between eachother before God. This probably gave David more strengthen and hope to continue his journey. Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most? No. However, I have received words of encouragement a time that I needed it most.

[Clifford]

Q3. (1 Samuel 23:14-18) Why does Jonathan visit David in the wilderness? To encourage David and that he will back him when his father is gone.

What risk is there for David? Jonathon could betray David's position.

What risk is there for Jonathan? David's men could have killed him for just being Saul's son.

What do you think it meant to David? Given their affection toward each other it probably meant the world to him to have Jonathon tell him that: "Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be second to you."

Have you ever received a visit from a friend when you needed it most? It is most reassuring when a friend says things you need to hear. It gives you strength to carry on and it gives you the courage to do what you need to do, especially when you feel that you are at the end of your rope.

[Waldo]

Jonathan's visit to David in the wilderness is primarily for the sake of friendship and out of the commitment Jonathan had toward David. He knows David is a fugitive and Jonathan wants to encourage his dear friend affirming that indeed he is committed to see David become the next king of Israël.

The risk for David is that somehow whether directly or indirectly it might be a way for Saul to get at David and have him killed since Saul knew of the friendship tying his son to David. However, the true heart of Jonathan is revealed here since the risk he takes is not small to be accused of betraying the king, his father, by visiting David unbeknownst to Saul.

The visit Jonathan payed to David meant a great deal of joy, refreshing, affirmation, comfort, strength, encouragement to David and did somehow proove the strength of Jonathan's commitment toward him.

It has been hard for me at times because of the sense of loneliness and being on my own without true heart to heart connections with other believers from the island where I serve. However, at a time I needed it the most, a friend was commissioned by God to come see me from overseas when I was really going under so to speak and was left without vision and strength. He came for a whole week just for my sake and to encourage me, set my heart in the right perspective of things and speak life into me. It was indeed a great blessing to have him around not only for me but also for my entire family that needed that touch too...