2 Samuel 3 -- Abner's Decision and Joab's Mistake

Saul's general, Abner, soon began to see the truth -- that Saul's dynasty was going away and that David would be the king of all Israel.  He decided to cast his lot with David.  "David was biding his time, knowing that God would keep His promises and give him the throne of Israel," my commentary said.  One disturbing trend was developing, however.  David was beginning to collect wives.  "Polygamy started with Lamech, a descendant of Cain, and was tolerated in Israel, but it was forbidden to Israel's kings (Deut. 17:17)," my commentary added.

Through shuttle diplomacy, Abner broached the subject of moving to David's side.  David's own military commander, Joab, was out on a raid David had ordered, while David met with Abner, arranged a feast, and then sent Abner to Israel to take care of his part of the arrangement.  But Abner had killed Joab's brother on the battlefield, and when Joab returned and was told about the feast, he distrusted Abner's motives and believed he was spying.  A contingent of men was sent without David's knowledge or approval to bring Abner back, and as he entered the city gates, Joab and his brother were waiting and murdered him.

David quickly moved to distance himself from the murder, even pronouncing a curse on Joab's family!  He even required Joab and his soldiers to officially mourn the death of Abner, and he had him buried in the royal city of Hebron.  David also wrote an official elegy to honor Abner, as he had for Saul and Jonathan.  The people of Israel could tell from David's actions that he'd played no part in the treasonous murder and they decided to do as Abner had done and make David king of all Israel.

Father, You know my own motives.  Please help others to know the truth about them -- that I seek only Your will and not anything for my own glory.  Keep me humble and ready to be Your servant, wanting what pleases You and glorifies You.

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford