1 Corinthians 16:17-18

New International Version

I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.

For Encouragement

The Apostle Paul recalls his joy when Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus visited him in prison with a provision that refreshed his spirit. He commended them to the Corinthian Church to honor encouragers like them (1 Corinthians 16:17-18). One of such encouragers was Jonathan to his friend, David, at Horesh and the warmth he brought to him.

David was tired and wearied—frightful and suspect of every noise behind him and his men at Horesh (1 Sam. 23:15). He constantly looked over his shoulders at every creepy footstep. He was a warrior and had some of the best soldiers Israel would ever have with him, so fighting was not his problem. Neither did David lack courage. Few young men would have survived the ordeal he had endured from Saul for so long.

But, goodness, fatigue has a way of breaking the confidence of the most ardent soldier to a pathetic soul, and David was feeling it. The conditions had worn him down physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. A surprise attack by Saul increased his anxiety. Every footstep sounded like that of Saul. So, imagine when Jonathan approached the camp.

David jumps up and quickly draws his sword, ready to fight. Instead of Saul, Jonathan shows up. Seeing David’s attack posture, Jonathan raises his hands and laughs. David runs into his arms and melts in his tight embrace. He wraps his arms around Jonathan’s neck and sobs uncontrollably. The relief and joy that filled the air were palpable, and David’s men turned and hugged each other, sharing in the overwhelming sense of relief. It was a moment of pure joy, like a wanderer in the desert, finding water in an oasis and running to drink from it.

The Sons of Korah describe such a yearning as best in Psalm forty-two.

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” (Psalm 42:1-2).

Undoubtedly, David yearned for God’s refreshing presence at Horesh. He could use some good news, any encouraging word that everything would be all right. The running and hiding would soon end, and he could return home. Jonathan’s presence was more than just a friend showing up. He became a vessel of God’s comfort to David. Streams of water would flow from him to quench David’s thirst and calm his yearning soul.

That is the warmth of encouragement, my friend. It is the meeting of the wearied soul and the empathetic friend to refresh and renew his strength.

Remember the day you received such warm encouragement at your lowest point, and recall how you felt uplifted and happy. Let that move you to become an instrument of encouragement to another wearied soul for God’s glory.

Before you say you cannot remember such a personal occasion, step back to the day the Holy Spirit came into your heart to save you. He has since become your Comforter and Encourager, who allows you to comfort and encourage others in their troubles (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

So, smile again, dear child of God, and remember that God will never leave you nor forsake you in your crucible (Heb. 13:5-6).

Pray with Me

Father, make me your instrument of encouragement to share your warmth with others in their times of need, in Jesus’s precious name. Amen