Good morning. It’s the Monday after Mother’s Day – May 15, 2023. Today we visit the palace of King David and read the nameplates over the offices of his deputies and officials. One will stand out as odd; we don’t have that office in most places today, but maybe we should. Read on …
Today's Reading:
1 Chronicles 25,26,27; 1 Thessalonians 4
Scripture
"Jehiel son of Hacmoni took care of the king's sons. Ahithophel was the king's counselor. Hushai the Arkite was the king's friend. Ahithophel was succeeded by Jehoiada son of Benaiah and by Abiathar. Joab was the commander of the royal army” (1 Chronicles 27:31-33)
Observation
In the middle of job descriptions, roles, and resumes, a phrase appears out of place: "Hushai, the Arkite was the king's friend."
Being the king's friend was made into an actual office, and that relationship was just as important to David as his five-star general, Joab, who commanded the royal army!
Later, Hushai, the king's friend, thwarts Ahithopel's advice to Absalom. He risked his life and did whatever it took to keep David's kingdom from ending prematurely. And in the end, that sustained friendship became a formal office in the king's palace.
Application
True friendships in life and leadership are uncommon and appear to develop slowly. First, mutual trust must be built - along with longevity, capability, competency, and much more that must develop along the way. Hushai survived the thick and thin of David's life: his ups and downs, victories and defeats, and times of celebration and sorrow. Friends like Hushai are a rare treasure - because in the press of the battle, our eyes are on the task, and when combat rages on, the leader rarely can afford to host a garden party. So, there will also be legs of the journey where you must travel alone. In the meantime, rejoice with friends; treasure them. Be thankful for the seasons when they join you on the road, and keep those offices open … even during political party rivals and Covid!
Prayer
Thank you for the Hushai’s in our lives. Please help me to maintain these offices as we continue to fulfill your calling. These alliances will ensure victory rather than regret, so remind me often that the secret to finding good friends is to start by being one.
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