April 30

1 Samuel 14:1-15

Faith and courage

One day, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, said to his helper, “Let’s make our way to the Philistine camp.” He did not tell his father what he was planning.

When Jonathan reached the Philistine camp, he said to his servant, “Let’s go into the camp. Maybe the Lord will help us. If He does, we will have victory, even though it is just the two of us against so many. Here is what we will do: we will let the Philistines see us. If they tell us to wait while they come to us, we will stay here. But if they call us, we will go to them, because it will be a sign from the Lord that He will give us victory.”

When the Philistines saw Jonathan, they said, “Look! Some Hebrews are coming out of their hiding places.” Then they called to Jonathan, “Come here; we have something to tell you.”

So Jonathan and his servant went to the Philistines and attacked them. The Lord gave them victory, and the Philistines in the area were terrified.

Is a daring deed an act of bravery or foolishness?

Would you say Jonathan was brave or foolish? How can we tell the difference? Here are some thoughts that may help:

Bravery: Did Jonathan do a courageous deed…

• in obedience to God?

• for God’s glory and honor?

• to rescue people in danger?

Foolishness: did Jonathan take a risk…

• for fun?

• to show off his power and skill?

• to get a reward?

Verse for today

Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13