Bad decisions result in regret over time, while good ones are affirmed. David points us to a greater King—Jesus—who took our curse, showed compassion to His enemies, and offers forgiveness to all who repent and believe.

On Good Friday, we solemnly celebrate the death of Jesus Christ, who was laid in “the dust of death” (Psalm 22:15). Because Christ was laid in the dust, all who trust in Him will one day bear the image of the man of heaven.

After King David graciously makes peace with Abner and sends him away in shalom, Joab — consumed by vengeful rage over his brother Asahel’s death — ambushes and murders him in cold blood at the gates of Hebron. This disturbing act of vengeance reveals that Jesus is our true and better City of Refuge. By His precious blood, He saves us to the uttermost and delivers us forever from the wrath of God.

Abner’s story warns us against pride, entitlement, disloyalty, and conditional “love.” Yet it also points us to the true King who makes genuine, lasting peace on His own gracious terms. May we repent of the Abner in us and cling to the unchanging lovingkindness of God in Christ.

David's marriages to many wives resulted in six sons in 2 Samuel 3. The greatest enemies that David will ever face are his own children. David's pursuit of the throne through ungodly means ultimately leads to his greatest trials.

In response to God's authority we are to submit to God's design for family life.

David fully relies on God as be becomes King after Saul's death

David's lament over the death of Saul and Jonathan, at the hand of the Philistines, tell us something about the character of David, Saul and Jonathan. But most of all it reveals the character of Jesus. He is the God who forgives; fights for His people; is the true glory of Israel, and He is a friend forever to His people.

David learns that Saul and Jonathan have been killed in battle

Does God withhold good things from us? At the Wedding of Cana Jesus demonstrated that He is God, Messiah, the celebrant and the instituter of the New Covenant. He covers our own shame; pouring out His abundant blessings upon His own bride to be. Have you tasted His wine?