David was new to his school and a great athlete. Jonathan was the first teammate David connected with and they became instant friends. For three years David and Jonathan grew very close. In the first game his senior year, David had an accident while driving. Many of his friends didn’t stick by his side, but Jonathan didn’t leave.

Proverbs 17:17 tells us that a friend is loyal—always loyal. We must ask ourselves, What kind of friend am I? Do I stick closer than a brother or take off when it gets tough? Can my friends count on me in times of need or just when things are good? When we find a friend who is loyal, we need to keep him or her around, because they are hard to come by.

Jonathan, like Jonathan of the Old Testament, stood by David. He visited him every day in the hospital and helped David through the difficult times of not playing ball anymore. He was truly loyal to his best friend. Christ asks us for loyalty not only to others, but also to Him. In His royalty He wants our loyalty. Be true to Christ. Be true to your friends. Be true to your school. Loyalty and friendship, when found, are treasures worth protecting.