Day 20 — Jonathan’s Climb

“Jonathan said to the young man bearing his armor, ‘Come, let us cross over to the outpost of these uncircumcised men. Perhaps the LORD will work on our behalf. Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few.’ His armor-bearer replied, ‘Do all that is in your heart. Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul.’”

— 1 Samuel 14:6–7 (BSB)

Before David came along, King Saul’s son Jonathan was a brave young warrior. One day, Israel’s army was in big trouble. They were badly outnumbered by the Philistines, and many soldiers were so afraid they were hiding in caves. Saul was sitting under a tree, not sure what to do.

But Jonathan had an idea. He turned to the young man who carried his armor and said, “Come, let us cross over to the outpost… Perhaps the LORD will work on our behalf. Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few.”

Jonathan knew that God didn’t need a big army. He could win with a thousand soldiers or with two guys.

And look at the armor-bearer’s answer: “Do all that is in your heart. Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul.” What a friend!

So the two of them climbed up a steep, rocky cliff, using their hands and feet, straight toward the enemy outpost. When they got to the top, they fought bravely, and God was with them. Then God sent an earthquake, and the whole Philistine army panicked. Soon, the rest of Israel’s army joined in, and God gave them a great victory. It all started with two guys who trusted God.

Jonathan teaches us something about courage. He didn’t wait until he had a big army or everything figured out. He trusted God and took the first step, even though it was risky.

Sometimes we think, I’m just one kid. What difference can I make? But Jonathan knew that with God, one or two people are enough.

Maybe you’re the only Christian on your team. Maybe you’re the only one in your friend group who won’t join in when others do wrong. Maybe you’re the only kid who’ll stand up for someone. That can feel lonely. But nothing can hinder the Lord, whether by many or by few.

And don’t miss the armor-bearer. Sometimes courage means being the friend who says, “I’m with you.”

Think about it: Why do you think Jonathan believed God could win “whether by many or by few”? When do you feel like “just one kid”?

Try this: Be someone’s armor-bearer today. When a friend wants to do something good or brave, tell him, “I’m with you.”

Dear God, thank You that nothing can stop You, whether by many or by few. Give me courage like Jonathan’s to take the first step, even when I’m the only one. And help me be a loyal friend who says, “I’m with you.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.