“So do God to Abner, and more also, except, as the Lord hath sworn to David, even so I do to him.”
Context:In this verse, Abner, the commander of Saul’s army, has defected from Ish-bosheth, Saul’s son, to join David. Abner has approached David to propose a political alliance between David’s kingdom in Hebron and the remnants of Saul’s kingdom centered in Mahanaim. Joab, David’s commander, is suspicious of Abner’s intentions and confronts him.
Meaning and Significance:God’s Faithfulness:David acknowledges the covenant God made with him regarding the kingdom. By invoking the Lord’s oath, David expresses his desire for God to fulfill His promises to him. It demonstrates David’s trust in God’s faithfulness and desire for God’s will to be done.
God’s Judgment:David uses a conditional statement, calling on God to bring judgment upon Abner. The phrase “So do God to Abner” implies a plea for God to act accordingly, either to bless or judge Abner based on his actions. David recognizes that God is the ultimate judge and authority, and he leaves the decision to God’s hands.
David’s Desire for Unity:David’s response to Abner’s proposal reveals his desire for unity among the tribes of Israel. By accepting Abner’s offer, David seeks to reunite the nation and establish a unified kingdom. This demonstrates David’s political astuteness and his vision for a united Israel under his leadership.
Joab’s Suspicion:The presence of Joab and his reaction to Abner’s proposal reflects the ongoing tension and conflicts within David’s kingdom. Joab is skeptical of Abner’s intentions, possibly due to the enmity between him and Abner. Joab’s suspicion highlights the challenges David faces in bringing stability and unification to the nation.
Lessons to Learn:
- Trust in God’s Promises:David’s invocation of God’s oath reminds us of the importance of trusting in God’s promises. Just as David relied on God’s faithfulness, we should have faith that God will fulfill His promises in our lives. We can find assurance in His word and seek His will in all circumstances.
- Seeking Unity and Reconciliation:David’s willingness to form an alliance with Abner teaches us the value of unity and reconciliation. As followers of Christ, we are called to pursue peace and unity among believers and work towards reconciliation in broken relationships. It is through unity that we can accomplish great things for the Kingdom of God.
- Awareness of Potential Conflicts:Joab’s suspicion highlights the need for discernment and wisdom in dealing with potential conflicts and challenges. We should exercise caution and seek God’s guidance in navigating complex situations, being mindful of the motives and intentions of others. It is important to act with wisdom and integrity, seeking to honor God in all our interactions.
- Depending on God’s Judgment:David’s plea for God’s judgment reminds us that God is the ultimate judge who sees and understands the hearts and actions of individuals. We should trust in God’s justice, leaving matters of judgment and vindication in His hands. It is not our place to take vengeance but to trust that God’s justice according to His perfect wisdom and timing.
Remember to read the surrounding verses and consult additional commentaries or resources for a deeper understanding of the passage.
