Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking him to meet you and speak to you.
Bible Reading
And Jonathan spoke well of David to Saul his father and said to him, “Let not the king sin against his servant David, because he has not sinned against you, and because his deeds have brought good to you. For he took his life in his hand and he struck down the Philistine, and the Lord worked a great salvation for all Israel. You saw it, and rejoiced. Why then will you sin against innocent blood by killing David without cause?” And Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan. Saul swore, “As the Lord lives, he shall not be put to death.” And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan reported to him all these things. And Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence as before.
– 1 Samuel 19:4-7
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
– Proverbs 15:1
Devotion
Jonathan reminded Saul of David’s past faithfulness and how he had benefited Saul and his kingdom. Jonathan mediated between Saul and David and reminded Saul of the truth. Jonathan warned Saul not to sin against the innocent David, turning away the impending wrath of Saul with truth and a soft answer. By doing so, he protected David and had him reinstated to Saul’s service.
Like Jonathan with Saul, Christ is our mediator with God. We can follow their examples by seeking to mediate between those who are experiencing broken relationships and enmity with one another. Instead of encouraging those who are seeking the harm of others, embracing gossip, taking sides, and responding with hateful speech, we would be better ambassadors for Christ by speaking the truth in love, turning away wrath, and mediating between those who are experiencing difficulty in their relationships with others. Our very words can truly bring life to others if we listen attentively and intentionally seek their best interest by providing the truth in love.
The Big Question
Are you jealous of envious of someone in your life? Do you wish good for them, or do you revel in gossip about them, slander them or seek their harm? What steps can you take to restore your relationship? Is there someone you can serve by mediating between them and an opposing party? How can you be intentional in bringing life to someone today?
Conclude in prayer and silence reflecting on what you’ve learned.