1st Week - Story

Our sample story deals with "Relationships"

Jonathan and David had a wonderful friendship despite intense turmoil. Their friendship remained consistent even in the midst of adversity. 

This story serves as a valuable tool for teaching the children that God cares about their relationships with others. If they choose the right kind of friends, God will bless their friendships and enable them to remain loyal to each other. 

As the children start a new school year, they will be involved in many new relationships. They learn quickly to control friendships. We must help them understand the importance of putting their friend's needs before their own. David and Jonathan are a very good example of an enduring relationship.

Story Background:

Saul: "Asked" Saul was a very large man who was very attractive. Because of this, he was quickly accepted as Israel's 1st King. He was a very capable military leader and from the tribe of Benjamin. Saul was disobedient to God several times and thus could not be trusted as an instrument of God's will. God was so displeased with him that His spirit departed from Him. He was filled with an uncontrollable jealousy because of David's popularity. He let the jealousy consume him to the point where he tried to kill David.

During his reign as King, the people deteriorated in their religious lives.

Jonathan: "Jehovah has Given" Saul's son and the rightful heir to the throne. He would have made a very good King, but he learned that God had chosen David to be King. Instead of being filled with jealousy toward David, Jonathan was a devoted and loyal friend. Jonathan was in a difficult position. Protecting David meant Jonathan would not be doing what would make his father happy.

David: "Beloved" Samuel appointed David to become the new king because of Saul's disobedience to God. David was extremely popular with the people and because of that popularity, Saul was jealous and turned against him continually trying to kill him. David was forced to flee and lived as a fugitive in the mountains for years.

Story Ideas:

Tell the story from Jonathan's point of view. Begin by describing the admiration and love Jonathan felt for David. Have Jonathan explain to the children that he should have been king after Saul, but he understood God had chosen David for this position. Illustrate how Jonathan loved God more than being king and therefore he loved David and supported God's decision.