Bitterness and a Divided Kingdom

Synopsis     2Sam 2:17-28     11/16/2018 

The competition of the twenty-four men was a draw. Twelve each from the army of Israel and David’s army had ended with everyone dead. And then a larger battle broke out between the two armies.  

David’s army was led by Joab. They defeated the army of Israel which was led by Abner. Then, Joab’s brother Asahel began to pursue Abner as the army fled.  

The two men knew each other personally. And Asahel knew that Abner was the power behind King Ishbaal’s throne. He thought that if Abner were killed, then all of Israel would abandon King Ishbaal and come over to accepting David as king.  

However, Abner was the more seasoned warrior. He warned Ashahel twice before finally killing him. Despite this, Joab continued his pursuit. Finally, as night fell, Abner rallied his troops and persuaded Joab to stop the fight. 

Bitterness and a Divided Kingdom 

Both Abner and David wanted a united Israelite kingdom. And Abner realized that the dream of reunification would be more difficult if the people were embittered with each other because of a massacre.  

It was a point that even the ever-aggressive Joab could understand. 

Bitterness and a Divided Family 

I tend to think that the things I said and did to my brother and sisters thirty years ago don’t really make a difference. But the truth is, if I haven’t reconciled some offense, then it remains. 

The bitterness of emotional injury is ever near. Of course, it’s usually hidden. But the bitter memories lie in wait for some new slight to reopen a wound. And then, to once again strain the relationship.  

 “All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting, and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice. [And] be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ.” Eph 4:31-32