Choosing the Wrong Side

Saul’s son, Jonathan, is a complex character. He recognizes David as the next king of Israel, and he is more than willing to lay aside his claim to the throne. He is not, however, willing to turn his back on his father. Jonathan faithfully serves his father, which eventually costs him his life:

1 Samuel 31:2 KJV
And the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchi-shua, Saul's sons.

The Bible is clear that we are to honor our father and mother (Ex. 20:12), but we are not duty-bound to support our parents in sin or wrong choices they may make.

Saul made many errors as king and his disobedience to God’s commandments cost him the kingdom and ultimately, his life. Similarly, Jonathan’s association with his father cost him his life.

Had Jonathan decided not only to verbally support David but to join his army, would he have lived a longer life? Would his son not have ended up maimed (2 Sam. 4:4)?

Our actions and choices affect us and those around us. Let us prayerfully make all our decisions, so we don’t end up choosing the wrong side.