2 Samuel 3:1-25 “Unity From Division?”
As war continues between Saul’s house and David’s house something interesting is happening: “…and David grew steadily stronger, but the house of Saul grew weaker continually.” (1b). David’s family was growing indicating strength, while division began to tear away in Saul’s house. Whether Abner was actually guilty of Ish-bosheth’s charge of sleeping with his father’s concubine, we do not know. What we do know is this accusation caused him to withdraw his support of Saul’s son and turn it to David. David agreed to meet and make a covenant with Abner only at the return of Michal who had been given to another man. Consequently, Ish-bosheth sends and takes her from her husband. Then Abner spoke with the elders: “…’In times past you were seeking for David to be king over you. Now then, do it! For the LORD has spoken of David, saying, “By the hand of My servant David I will save My people Israel…”’” (17b-18a). It would seem the conflict between Abner and Ish-bosheth brought to light Abner’s awareness of God moving David into the place of king over all Israel. God used division in Israel to bring unity under His will and accomplish His plan to install David as king.
