Significant Association!

After listing King David's military commanders, leaders of the tribes, and all the stewards of his property, we read of these others of association with him:

"(32) Jonathan, David's uncle, was a counselor, being a man of understanding and a scribe. He and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni attended the king's sons. (33) Ahithophel was the king's counselor, and Hushai the Archite was the king's friend. (34) Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar. Joab was commander of the king's army." ( 1 Chronicles 27:32-34 ESV)

Then in association with King Solomon we read. . .

"(1) King Solomon was king over all Israel, (2) and these were his high officials: Azariah the son of Zadok was the priest; (3) Elihoreph and Ahijah the sons of Shisha were secretaries; Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was recorder; (4) Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was in command of the army; Zadok and Abiathar were priests; (5) Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers; Zabud the son of Nathan was priest and king's friend; (6) Ahishar was in charge of the palace; and Adoniram the son of Abda was in charge of the forced labor." ( 1 Kings 4:1-6 ESV)

Among those listed in association with King David and King Solomon we find attendants, commanders, counselors, priests, secretaries, and overseers of the palace and workers. Perhaps none of those designations surprise us. Being surrounded by those keeping records, overseeing various aspects of the king's affairs, offering counsel and even spiritual direction are important for someone in high position. However, there is one designation that may seem somewhat different to be listed among a king's officials yet one of great significance. Hushai the Archite was King David's FRIEND and Zabud was not only a priest, but also King Solomon's FRIEND.

It can be lonely at the top. Even those in high places need FRIENDS; loyal associations and close confidantes that can be relied on for honest counsel and support even through the challenging times. Having such a FRIEND and being one should always be viewed as very significant. What a glorious connection that was for Hushai and Zabud, being friends of kings.

We should be careful of where we have allowed our closest sense of FRIENDSHIP to develop. James pointed out "that FRIENDSHIP with the world is enmity [hostility] toward God." ( James 4:4) James also noted Abraham as being called a FRIEND of God because of his belief. ( James 2:23)

Jesus told the disciples. . .
"(14) YOU ARE MY FRIENDS IF YOU DO WHAT I COMMAND YOU." ( John 15:14 ESV)

To be a FRIEND OF KING JESUS should be very significant to us. Though He has no need of our counsel, He desires our faithfulness as HIS FRIEND. Could we have any better FRIEND than Jesus? May we rejoice in the privilege of being His!

Have a great day BEING A LOYAL FRIEND OF THE KING ETERNAL!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Relationships