Saul's Faithful General
Abner, son of Ner, served as the commander of King Saul's army and was Saul's uncle. The Scriptures first introduce him as a key military leader who accompanied Saul and David during their campaigns. In 1 Samuel 14:50, we learn that "the name of the commander of Saul's army was Abner son of Ner, and Ner was Saul's uncle." This family connection positioned Abner as one of Saul's most trusted advisors and military strategists.
Throughout Saul's reign, Abner demonstrated unwavering loyalty to his king, even when Saul's jealousy toward David grew destructive. When David had opportunities to kill Saul but chose mercy instead, Abner was present and witnessed David's integrity firsthand. These encounters would later prove significant in God's plan for Israel's transition to David's kingship.
The Civil War Years
After Saul's death, Abner initially opposed David's claim to the throne by installing Saul's son Ish-Bosheth as king over the northern tribes. This decision led to a prolonged civil war between the house of Saul and the house of David. For seven and a half years, the nation remained divided, with Abner serving as the real power behind Ish-Bosheth's weak kingship.
However, when Ish-Bosheth falsely accused Abner regarding Saul's concubine, Abner became angry and decided to transfer his allegiance to David. In 2 Samuel 3:9-10, Abner declared his intention to help establish David as king over all Israel, recognizing God's promise to David. This pivotal moment shows how God can use even political conflicts to accomplish His sovereign purposes.
Lessons in Loyalty and God's Sovereignty
Abner's life teaches us valuable lessons about loyalty, timing, and God's overruling providence. Though he initially resisted God's chosen king, Abner eventually recognized David's legitimate claim and worked to unite the kingdom. His tragic death at the hands of Joab, who sought revenge for his brother's death, reminds us that human anger and vengeance can disrupt God's plans, yet cannot ultimately thwart them.
For believers today, Abner's story encourages us to remain open to God's leading, even when it requires changing course. Sometimes our initial loyalties or decisions may need adjustment as we grow in understanding God's will. Like Abner, we can choose to align ourselves with God's purposes, trusting that He works all things together for good.
So may God deal with Abner, be it ever so severely, if I do not do for David what the Lord promised him on oath and transfer the kingdom from the house of Saul and establish David's throne over Israel and Judah from Dan to Beersheba. (2 Samuel 3:9-10)