Be A Friend

1 Kings 4:5 KJV

And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers: and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer, and the king's friend:

Zabud, the Bible says, was not only Solomon's principle officer but also his friend. I do not take this as Solomon loading his staff positions with incompetent friendships. Rather, this is a man well qualified for the position but who also is a friend to the king. He is not serving so much for:

· pay or 

· glory or a 

· chance to step up in position 

He isn't simply loyal because of the king's authority and his own agreement with the king's policies; he likes the king and the king in turn likes him.

Every man needs at least one good friend. Those in leadership need many who will be loyal and a multitude who agree with his policies and direction. But if a man has one or two good friends, that is a bonus few ever really know.

David had great men who would die for him and some, like Joab, who were completely loyal to him. But only Jonathan would have qualified as a friend.

Jesus loved his disciples and had twelve who were apostles; of them three were in an apparent inner circle but only John was called the beloved apostle.

Paul had many co-laborers and several whom he had brought up in the ministry. Barnabas had opened many doors for Paul early on. But it seems Timothy was a precious and unique friendship.

Be a true friend to your pastor. Be loyal. Be agreeable. But be more. Be a friend.