2 Samuel 2:8-32 “The Cost of Ego, Insecurity & Revenge”
While David is anointed king over Judah, Abner, commander of Saul’s army, installs Saul’s son Ish-bosheth as king in Mahanaim. Abner is motivated by ego and insecurity after the death of Saul in Israel. He challenges Joab (David’s commander) to a contest of young men resulting in the death of all 24 men. This escalated to a war and Joab’s brother Asahel pursued Abner. While Asahel was known for his speed, he was no match for Abner as a warrior. Abner did not want to kill Asahel knowing he was Joab’s brother so he asked him to turn aside. When Asahel persisted, Abner killed him. As a consequence Joab and his other brother pursued Abner until Abner called out saying: “…’Shall the sword devour forever? Do you not know that it will be bitter in the end?….” (26b, c). When conflicts are motivated by ego, insecurity and revenge, they interfere with peace and unity resulting in great loss for all.
