Godly Friendships: Built to Last

(This is an abridged version of the sermon preached by Michael Larsen on Jan 4, 2026)

Friendship is one of life’s greatest gifts. We all know how encouraging it is to have someone who truly understands us, stands by us, and supports us through both joy and hardship. Yet many friendships fade when circumstances change. The Bible shows us that lasting friendships are not built on convenience or success, but on something deeper—a shared relationship with God. The friendship between David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel offers a powerful model of what godly friendship looks like.

The first key to a godly friendship is a heart for God. Scripture tells us that Jonathan and David became “one in spirit” because they shared the same desire: to honor God and follow His will. Like-mindedness draws people together. Just as hobbies or interests can form friendships, a shared love for God creates an even stronger bond. When Christ is the thread holding a relationship together, it becomes far more durable. Life’s ups and downs may strain friendships, but when both people are committed to pleasing God, the relationship can endure. If a friendship feels damaged or distant, returning together to a shared pursuit of God can help repair what has been torn.

The second key is a genuine love for one another. Jonathan loved David “as himself,” a love that was unselfish and sacrificial. This is especially striking because Jonathan stood to lose the most. As the crown prince, he could have viewed David as a rival. Instead, he chose loyalty over jealousy. Jonathan made a covenant with David and symbolically gave him his robe and weapons—an act that showed equality, humility, and generosity. Godly friendships are not about what we can gain, but about what we are willing to give. True friends do not measure value by status, success, or usefulness. They give of themselves freely, even when there is nothing to gain in return.

The third key is a watchful eye. A true friend protects, warns, and speaks honestly, even when it is difficult. When Saul sought to kill David, Jonathan courageously warned him and intervened on his behalf. This is what real friendship looks like: defending someone when they are not present, telling the truth even when it hurts, and helping one another stay away from spiritual danger. Honest words may sting for a moment, but they often protect us from far greater harm. Godly friends care more about a person’s character and relationship with God than about comfort or approval.

Ultimately, the friendship of David and Jonathan points us to the greatest friend of all—Jesus Christ. Human friendships may fail, but Jesus never does. He remains faithful even when we fall short and is always ready to restore us when we turn back to Him. When our friendships are rooted in Christ, they reflect His love and become sources of strength, encouragement, and lasting joy.