Most of us have thought at one time or another, “If I could just get through this, then everything will be smooth sailing.” For most of David’s journey, he literally had to run and fight for his life. Now, as we open to 2 Samuel 1, David will finally be anointed king. You would think that everything would settle down, but no. The first thing he faces is a dilemma between Judah and Israel. In our text, God gives us a clear picture of what can be expected in the Christian life: certainly trials and challenges, but also the fulfillment and hope of His glorious promises.