2 Samuel 2-4: Abner Died on the Right Side

David begins to make the journey back to Israel to become their King. Abner, one of King Saul’s relatives puts, Ish-Bosheth on the throne as a puppet king. In reality it is Abner who has the power. Abner does not accept the rightful rule of King David. His willful rebellion reminds us of what we are like: born as citizents in the kingdom of darkness, we live independently of our Creator. Neverthless the moment came when Abner changed his loyalties. He left those family ties which no doubt held him back, and joined the winning side. David, by forgiving Abner and welcoming him into the family, reflects the kindness the Lord Jesus has shown us. As the hymn says ‘the vilest offender who truly believes, that moment from Jesus a pardon receives.’