It is always right to show kindness to those who have helped you along the way. 2 Samuel 9:1 says “And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan’s sake.” David did not have to do this. Jonathan had been killed in battle. The house of Saul had been the enemy of David for years. We should remember, however, that were it not for the kindness of Jonathan, things would have turned out very differently for David.
David certainly remembered it. He wanted to show kindness for Jonathan’s sake. He remembered that Jonathan had helped him. He remembered that Jonathan stood up for him. He remembered that Jonathan was his best friend. Because he remembered all of that, he sought out someone of Jonathan’s family upon whom he could pour out kindness.
The situation had changed for David. In prior years, he was on the run. Earlier, he was at war. Now, he was the king of the land with wealth and power. Yet, he did not forget Jonathan, who helped him along the way. He had the opportunity to show kindness to Jonathan, even though his friend was gone. He seized that opportunity.
We should remember those who have helped us along the way. We should think of them when we are is a good position. We should show kindness as we have opportunity. Jonathan was not there to appreciate the kindness, but his son, Mephibosheth, certainly did. You never know how God will turn your kindness into great blessings. Let’s not miss the opportunity.