1 SAMUEL 18:1-2

There are Biblical principles on how to Define and Discern Godly relationships. As believers, we honor God in how we choose and steward the associations entrusted to us. In this devotional, we walk through three principles: Defining, Discerning, and Disconnecting from ungodly connections that hinder our growth in Christ.

This message highlights the powerful friendship between David and Jonathan as a model of true, godly relationships. It emphasizes selfless love, unwavering loyalty, integrity, sacrifice, respect for God’s will, and consistent encouragement. Their bond shows that genuine friendship is not based on personal gain but on commitment, trust, and spiritual alignment. It challenges us to build relationships that uplift, support, and honor God’s purpose in one another’s lives, even when it requires sacrifice or putting others first.

God created people to live as families, providing care, support and connection for one another. Sometimes family means more than just relatives. And some of the most beautiful relationships in the Bible are ones in which God drew unlikely people together in unexpected ways. Where do you find people who will be like family to you? Explore how God can help you find family — or be family for someone in need!

The God who made us placed within our hearts a longing for happiness and purpose, so we shouldn’t be surprised the Bible provides us with answers. Scholar and teacher Jonathan Pennington helps us to rediscover biblical Christianity as a whole-life philosophy, one that addresses our greatest human questions and equips us to live meaningful lives. This week, you will come to see God and Scriptures in an entirely new way.