In 1 Kings 4:5, we’re told that “Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer, and the king’s friend.”
That title caught my eye—“the king’s friend.” It wasn’t just a nickname. It was an official role. A trusted spot. The kind of position most people never got close to. While others fought for power or popularity, Zabud had something better—he had the king’s heart.
Today, being called “the friend of the king” would be like being part of the king’s inner circle—someone like a chief of staff or top advisor. It wasn’t just about friendship. It meant you had the king’s trust, his ear, and maybe even helped make big decisions. You weren’t just close—you were important.
And here’s the thought: if Zabud could be Solomon’s friend, what would it mean for us to be God’s friend?
1. A Close Relationship
The king’s friend wasn’t kept at a distance. Zabud likely sat with Solomon in private chambers. He gave counsel, heard the king’s thoughts, maybe even saw his struggles.
In the same way, God doesn’t want a cold or distant relationship with us. He calls us to walk with Him, talk with Him, and even pour out our complaints before Him. The Bible says in John 15:15, “Henceforth I call you not servants… but I have called you friends.”
Jesus Himself said that. The King of Kings wants friendship with us.
2. A Loyal Heart
Zabud didn’t earn that title by being lazy or half-hearted. He was given the spot because he was faithful, wise, and trustworthy. He probably didn’t flatter the king—he told him the truth.
That’s what God’s looking for in us. He wants loyalty, not just lip service. A friend of the King isn’t someone who shows up only when it’s easy. He’s someone who sticks close through storms.
James 4:4 tells us that friendship with the world makes us enemies of God. So we’ve got to choose—whose friend are we really trying to be?
3. A Privileged Position
Zabud had the king’s ear. When others had to go through channels, he had access. He knew the king’s plans before the crowd did.
That’s how it is when we walk closely with God. We start to understand His will better. We get insight from His Word. He speaks peace to our heart when others are still panicking.
Psalm 25:14 says, “The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him.”
That’s a special kind of friendship. The kind where God whispers to your heart because He knows you’ll listen.
Zabud lived in the palace and was a friend of King Solomon. That was high honor.
But we get something better—we are invited to walk daily with the King of Heaven.
So here’s the question: If God looked at your life, would He say, “That’s my friend?”
Not just someone who reads a verse here or there. Not just someone who sings on Sunday. But someone who listens, obeys, and sticks close—even when it’s hard.
Let’s not just serve the King. Let’s be His friend.
