Articles
The Hero of an Authentic Friend
The Hero of an Authentic Friend
Tyler King
In a nation-wide movement, there has been a craving for foods that are organic or authentic. This is a result of food companies using artificial ingredients in order to help with cost and effectiveness. However, with further study, these artificial ingredients are extremely unhealthy because the body isn't able to break them down as easily as natural ingredients. Because of the health epidemic, people have sought to spend the extra money on the foods that are Non-GMO, organic, and all-natural.
Unfortunately, "artificialness" has not just limited itself to a list of ingredients on the back of a candy bar or soda. Often times, people can fall under this same category. You might be able to think of certain people in the media world who can act so sweet and innocent on the TV, yet they are hostile and negative in real life. However, it is typically those who are genuine and authentic that are regarded highly and honorably. Think of your closest friend, and I doubt the word "fake" would be a word you use to describe them. Proverbs 18:24 says, "A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." It is the one who is authentic and true that becomes the invaluable friend.
Many times, David is known for his sin with Bathsheba or his victory against Goliath. Few take the time to stop and look at David's close friend, Jonathan, but it would serve as an excellent example in light of being an authentic friend. You wouldn't have to read very far into David and Jonathan's friendship to see that an authentic friend is a hero.
Jonathan was willing to give up his royal attire in order to aid in David's success (1 Samuel 18:1-4). Many times, we become "royal" in our own minds, but we have to be willing to give up whatever it is that causes us to think this way, in order to help someone else.
Jonathan was Saul's son which means he was heir to the throne. Rather than seeking to get rid of David who was competition to the throne, he helped his friend.
Jonathan was there to give a defense for David (1 Samuel 19:1-5). An authentic friend doesn't speak badly of someone behind their back, but speaks highly of them - even if it is to a blood-thirsty king.
Jonathan was there no matter what (1 Samuel 20:1-4). It's easy to be a fair-weather friend, but sticking around even when it means getting out of our comfort zone is something that is of high value.
These traits that Jonathan exhibited are some of the finest traits that a friend can have. We should strive to be better friends to those around us because you never know what battle someone is fighting. More than that, we see these same traits in our Savior. He is our friend (John 15:15). He gave up his royal attire on our behalf (Philippians 2:5-9). He defends us (1 John 2:1-2). He is there, no matter what the cost (Mark 15).
