1 Samuel 20:13
The LORD do so and much more to Jonathan: but if it please my father to do thee evil, then I will shew it thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace: and the LORD be with thee, as he hath been with my father.
1 Samuel 20:13
David is to be escorted by God’s blessing if the outcome favors him, but Jonathan vows to reveal his father’s intentions if they turn evil. “The LORD do so and much more to Jonathan” is a solemn oath invoking divine judgment on any betrayal. The phrase “send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace” embodies the hope of safe departure and continued loyalty—an earnest desire for David’s protection even in the face of danger. The blessing “the LORD be with thee, as he hath been with my father” frames Jonathan’s benediction as a continuation of divine favor previously granted to Saul but now extended to David, who is the rightful recipient of God’s favor in God’s timing. It’s a moment of sacrificial friendship: Jonathan would rather see David safe and the kingdom advance under God’s plan than secure his own security.
This verse foregrounds the crucial theme of peace through truth and righteous separation. Jonathan’s willingness to remove David from harm while acknowledging God’s sovereignty illustrates a mature, god-honoring strategy for navigating conflict. The covenantal language signals that human loyalty must align with God’s will, especially when political intrigue threatens the anointed. It shows the tension between earthly throne rooms and heavenly plans, reminding readers that true protection comes from obedience to God’s purposes.
For modern readers, this means choosing transparency over expediency. If a difficult decision options out, consider the long view—are you protecting a friend for the sake of God’s purposes? Practice unconditional care: you can honor someone’s safety and still pursue truth. In personal relationships or work, it’s wise to refuse to be complicit in harmful schemes and to offer a principled exit strategy that preserves peace and integrity. Encourage colleagues and loved ones to act with integrity, even when it costs comfort or status. This is a call to steward influence responsibly, trusting God to work through honest disagreement and faithful action.
Cross-References: Proverbs 27:6; Romans 12:17-21; 2 Samuel 14:17; 1 Samuel 24:5-7; Psalm 37:5