When God created his children he programmed us with a spiritual and emotional need for connection.

Our craving for friendship isn't a weakness,

it's a gift from God.

Today on Insight for Living,

Chuck Swindall continues his practical study

on The Fruit of the spirit. In this study

we'll address the gift of faithfulness, especially when it's manifest in

relationships. The Bible contains dozens of real life illustrations, but the relationship Chuck chose to describe

is the powerful friendship between David and Jonathan. Chuck titled his message,

The Bond Between Close Friends. Jonathan saw in David qualities that were admirable,

probably qualities he longed for in his own life.

And he even formed a pact with David because he loved David as he loved his own soul.

Now I mentioned four characteristics. Let me point them out. Will you

notice as we just read for you those first four verses that the first thing Jonathan does when he gets with

David at least the first thing recorded.

He takes off his robe, he removes his tunic, gives both to David.

Since Saul is not going to let him return to his home, he's going to need those for his

comfort. And then if you read on, he gives him his bow, he gives him his sword, he gives him his belt all to

protect himself in the days to come.

So here's the first of the characteristics.

A faithful friend voluntarily sacrifices for the one who is close to.

Second, a faithful friend stands in loyal defense before others.

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