Sermon Central
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Jealousy And Covenant – Navigating Success And Relationships Series
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on Jul 5, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: 1 Samuel 18–20 paints a powerful picture of the battlefield of relationships that surround success. Favour attracts both foes and friends. Saul’s jealousy tried to kill David, while Jonathan’s loyalty helped preserve him.
JEALOUSY AND COVENANT – NAVIGATING SUCCESS AND RELATIONSHIPS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Samuel 18-20
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 27:4, Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Philippians 2:3, Psalm 133:1-3
INTRODUCTION:
Success is a blessing, but it often comes with its own challenges—especially in how people respond to it. In 1 Samuel 18–20, we observe two major relational dynamics in David’s life: Saul’s growing jealousy and Jonathan’s loyal covenant. These contrasting responses reveal deep truths about human nature and how divine favour exposes hearts.
Saul, once David’s admirer, quickly turned into his adversary. David’s victories became Saul’s insecurities. Rather than celebrate David’s success, Saul allowed envy to poison his heart. On the other hand, Jonathan, Saul’s own son, loved David deeply and made a covenant with him—a bond that prioritised loyalty to God’s will above family politics.
Every rising leader must learn to navigate the terrain of favour, jealousy, and divine relationships. Some will hate your success; others will protect it. In these chapters, God teaches us that while some relationships will test our endurance, others will preserve our destiny. Recognising and honouring covenant friendships while wisely handling toxic opposition is crucial to fulfilling divine purpose.
1. SUCCESS ATTRACTS BOTH CELEBRATION AND JEALOUSY
When God begins to lift a man, people will either rejoice with him or rage against him. Not all applause is sincere.
a) David’s Victory Over Goliath Brought Him into National Fame (1 Samuel 18:6–7)
The women sang, “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands.” What was meant as praise sparked envy.
b) Saul Became Angry and Suspicious of David (1 Samuel 18:8–9)
He could not handle David’s rising popularity. Insecure leaders feel threatened by gifted subordinates.
c) Jealousy Distorts Perception and Fuels Hatred
Saul saw David as a rival rather than an ally. Jealousy turns admiration into opposition.
d) David Behaved Wisely Despite the Envy (1 Samuel 18:14–15)
Wisdom and humility are essential when favour causes friction. David did not retaliate but maintained honour.
Biblical Example: Cain was jealous of Abel’s accepted offering and killed him instead of correcting his own heart (Genesis 4:4–8).
2. DIVINE FAVOUR CAN MAKE YOU A TARGET
Being loved by God and man can provoke the wrath of those who walk in flesh. Favour is attractive but also dangerous.
a) Saul Feared David Because the Lord Was with Him (1 Samuel 18:12)
God’s presence on David’s life became Saul’s torment. Those who lack intimacy with God often resent those who have it.
b) Saul Tried to Eliminate David Using Subtle Strategies (1 Samuel 18:17, 21)
He offered his daughters in marriage, hoping David would fall by the hand of the Philistines. Manipulation masks hatred.
c) The Lord Preserved David Through Every Trap
Favour doesn’t mean trouble won’t come—but it ensures God will protect and promote through it.
d) Saul Grew More Afraid as David Continued to Prosper (1 Samuel 18:29–30)
When your enemies realise they cannot stop you, fear replaces envy. God uses your consistency to frustrate their plans.
Biblical Example: Joseph’s favour with his father and dreams of greatness made his brothers envious and violent (Genesis 37:3–11).
3. TRUE FRIENDSHIP IS BUILT ON COVENANT, NOT CONVENIENCE
Jonathan’s friendship with David was pure, sacrificial, and spiritual. He loved David not for gain, but for God’s purpose.
a) Jonathan Made a Covenant with David (1 Samuel 18:1–4)
He stripped himself of his robe, armour, and weapons and gave them to David. This symbolised trust, love, and alignment with God's choice.
b) Love in Covenant Friendship is Loyal, Even Under Pressure
Jonathan remained loyal to David even when his father sought to kill him. Covenant love stands firm in trials.
c) Jonathan Protected David and Interceded for Him (1 Samuel 19:1–7)
He risked his life to defend David. A covenant friend puts your safety and purpose above their own comfort.
d) Covenant Relationships Are Anchored in God’s Will
Jonathan recognised that David was God’s chosen king. He submitted to divine order without jealousy.
Biblical Example: Ruth remained with Naomi in covenant love, saying, “Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God” (Ruth 1:16–17).
4. ENVY BLINDS LEADERSHIP AND DESTROYS RELATIONSHIPS
Saul’s obsession with destroying David not only isolated him from God but damaged his own family.
a) Saul Threw a Spear at Jonathan for Defending David (1 Samuel 20:30–33)
Jealousy drives people to irrational behaviour—even against those they love.
b) His Rage Was Rooted in Rebellion Against God’s Plan
Saul knew David was chosen by God, but he still fought it. Fighting God’s will leads to self-destruction.
c) Envy Destroys Discernment and Relationships
Saul lost trust, peace, and unity in his household. His desire to eliminate David became his downfall.
d) When Leaders Prioritise Ego Over Purpose, They Hinder Destiny
Saul’s leadership was no longer about Israel—it became about preserving his own image and power.
