The Christian Lady's Magazine (Volume 12)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated.1839 Excerpt: ... THE FAVOURED SHEPHERD. No. V. DAVID AND JONATHAN. The scripture account of the intercourse that existed between David and the son of his persecutor, Saul, is not only one of much interest as exciting our sympathy, but is also one of much usefulness, regarded as a model for Christian friendship. Constancy, simplicity, sincerity, and piety, distinguished it throughout, and to those who have at times been tempted hastily to say, All men are liars, and to conclude that nought of friendship is now left but the name, it is pleasing to look back upon its reality as here recorded; and at least to make the example a model for themselves, if they cannot discern its likeness in others; always remembering that friendship, like every other fair fruit of the tree of righteousness, must have its basis fixed on the love of Christ, and its exercise guided by His example. The soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. (1 Sam. xviii. 1, 3.) What can be more simple, and yet more expressive than scripture language, and in the present instance how appropriate and beautiful! It expresses a closeness of union, a oneness of interest, a reciprocity of spirit, which must be felt to be August, 1839. K understood, and which differs as widely from that which passes for friendship in the world, as shadow differs from substance, or cold from heat. It was not long before the fidelity of Jonathan to the covenant made with David was put to the test. (1 Sam. six.) Once he pleaded successfully with his father for his friend, and he was re-admitted into the royal presence as in times past, till his prowess again stirred up the rage of Saul, and he fled for his life to Ramah, the residence of the prophet Samuel. But the second time the faithful...