Competing loyalties
by Faye Schmidt
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So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, ‘May the Lord call David’s enemies to account.’ And Jonathan had David reaffirm his oath out of love for him, because he loved him as he loved himself (1 Samuel 20:16,17).
Read 1 Samuel 20:1–23
The problem with loyalty is that everyone has their own definition of it. At some point, we will find ourselves in the painful position where being loyal to one person makes us feel like a betrayer to another.
Chapter 20 of 1 Samuel provides a guideline for when we must make a decision.
Simply put, to be loyal is to honour our commitment even if it is more beneficial for us to break it. An honourable person ‘keeps [their] oath even when it hurts’ (Psalm 15:4).
Unfortunately, many understand loyalty to be an unwavering commitment to someone’s personal agenda. When loyalty is defined in this way, the guidelines vary, and confusion and strife are sure to emerge.
King Saul’s misperception of loyalty created a horrible situation for his son Jonathan. Jonathan, the heir to Saul’s throne, swore an oath of protection to his friend David. Unfortunately, Saul felt threatened by David and was enraged that Jonathan would not help him find and kill David. Jonathan was faced with navigating the painful process of competing loyalties.
Jonathan deeply loved both his father and David, but he knew his primary loyalty was to God. He couldn’t assist his father in a personal vendetta motivated by insecurity and pride. David did nothing deserving of death. The choice was clear.
When we feel trapped by competing loyalties, the only way to make the right choice is to remember that our primary loyalty is to God, and that our hearts are to be ‘fully committed to the Lord our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands’ (1 Kings 8:61).
And what is God’s command? ‘A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another’ (John 13:34).
Heavenly Father, who has been the hope and joy of many generations, and who has given us the power to seek you throughout all ages, I pray that you grant me a clearer vision of your truth, a greater faith in your power and a more confident assurance of your love. Amen.
Faye Schmidt continues her diaconal calling through governance, having served on the Victoria–Tasmania District Church Board and the General Church Board, currently as chair of the Standing Committee on Constitutions and her congregation, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Adelaide. Having lived and worked in many locations within Australia and overseas, Faye has a heart for the stranger and the newcomer. She is passionate about new ideas, learning from others and responding to needs.
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