The Bitter Fruit of Conflict: Lessons from Abner's Plea
"Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren?" - 2 Samuel 2:26
In the convoluted landscape of human relationships and conflict, few narratives strike with the same potency as that found in 2 Samuel 2:26. Here we find Abner, the commander of Saul's army, calling out to Joab, David's general, imploring him with a piercing question: "Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren?" (KJV).
This verse isn’t just a historical account; it echoes through the ages with profound relevance. Abner’s words capture the essence of too many conflicts, personal or communal—wars fought without reflection on the eventual consequences. In our own lives and society, it begs us to examine how often we engage in battles that yield temporary victories but at the cost of lasting pain and division.
**The Cost of Unchecked Aggression**
Abner’s declaration highlights that a relentless pursuit of aggression, symbolized by the sword, leads only to destruction and strife. In our daily interactions, how often do we wield our 'swords’? These can be harsh words, unyielding pride, or stubbornness. Just as Abner understood that continued conflict could only lead to bitterness, we must recognize that unresolved grievances can grow into festering wounds.
Conflict often seems necessary at the moment. When you're in the heat of battle—be it at home, work, or even within the church leadership—emotions can override reason. Fighting for our positions, opinions, or interests might lead to an immediate sense of victory, yet we must always be aware of the potential fallout. Relationships can be severely damaged, sometimes irreparably, and we must acknowledge that every battle fought can yield a harvest we never intended.
**The Call for Reconciliation**
Abner's plea also serves as a benediction of sorts, a call to return to peace and harmony among brethren. He recognized that the continuation of strife only breeds division, and division leads to destruction. The call for reconciliation is just as vital today as it was in the ancient landscape of Israel’s tribes.
Reconciling with one another is at the heart of the Christian calling. Galatians 6:1 instructs us, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." This act of returning from conflict to fellowship is crucial, yet often we find it difficult to set aside our pride or grievances.
**Choices Leading to Bitterness**
Abner warns of bitterness in the latter end—a bitter harvest of consequences resulting from persistent warfare and hard-heartedness. Are we cultivating seeds of peace or bitterness in our interactions? When we choose the sword over the olive branch, we should be prepared to reap sorrow, anger, and estrangement.
With every argument, stand firm; yet also ask yourself—will this lead to enduring bitterness? Each decision made in conflict carries weight; therefore, let us choose the path of unity instead. The enemy wants us to remain divided and to nurture our grievances till they grow into destructive forces.
**Conclusion: Wisdom from Conflict**
So, what is your sword today? It may be words, actions, or attitudes that you are wielding against someone close. Abner's question invites self-reflection and urges us towards peace. In the face of conflict, we can either choose to deepen the rift or seek the fruit of reconciliation.
As we contemplate this scripture, may we remember to pursue peace earnestly, letting go of the swords we carry. Rather than allowing bitterness to take root, let us be agents of healing in our relationships. This choice will lead not only to personal peace but also to a community that mirrors Christ’s love and reconciliation.
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2 Samuel 2:26 - "Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren?"
"Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from following their brethren?" - 2 Samuel 2:26
1 Samuel 2:26 - "And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men."
2 Samuel 17:26 - "So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead."
2 Samuel 23:26 - "Helez the Paltite, Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite,"
2 Samuel 20:26 - "And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler about David."
2 Samuel 2:6 - "And now the LORD shew kindness and truth unto you: and I also will requite you this kindness, because ye have done this thing."
2 Samuel 12:26 - "And Joab fought against Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and took the royal city."
2 Samuel 11:26 - "¶ And when the wife of Uriah heard that Uriah her husband was dead, she mourned for her husband."
"And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men." - 1 Samuel 2:26
2 Samuel 22:26 - "With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful, and with the upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright."
"Helez the Paltite, Ira the son of Ikkesh the Tekoite," - 2 Samuel 23:26
"So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead." - 2 Samuel 17:26
1 Samuel 26:2 - "Then Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, having three thousand chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph."
"And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler about David." - 2 Samuel 20:26
2 Samuel 15:26 - "But if he thus say, I have no delight in thee; behold, here am I, let him do to me as seemeth good unto him."
2 Samuel 7:26 - "And let thy name be magnified for ever, saying, The LORD of hosts is the God over Israel: and let the house of thy servant David be established before thee."
2 Samuel 13:26 - "Then said Absalom, If not, I pray thee, let my brother Amnon go with us. And the king said unto him, Why should he go with thee?"
2 Samuel 3:26 - "And when Joab was come out from David, he sent messengers after Abner, which brought him again from the well of Sirah: but David knew it not."
2 Samuel 1:26 - "I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women."
2 Samuel 18:26 - "And the watchman saw another man running: and the watchman called unto the porter, and said, Behold another man running alone. And the king said, He also bringeth tidings."
"And now the LORD shew kindness and truth unto you: and I also will requite you this kindness, because ye have done this thing." - 2 Samuel 2:6
"And Joab fought against Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and took the royal city." - 2 Samuel 12:26
1 Samuel 2:6 - "The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up."
2 Samuel 19:26 - "And he answered, My lord, O king, my servant deceived me: for thy servant said, I will saddle me an ass, that I may ride thereon, and go to the king; because thy servant is lame."
2 Samuel 14:26 - "And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year's end that he polled it: because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king's weight."
"¶ And when the wife of Uriah heard that Uriah her husband was dead, she mourned for her husband." - 2 Samuel 11:26
"With the merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful, and with the upright man thou wilt shew thyself upright." - 2 Samuel 22:26
james 2:26
2 Samuel 12:2 - "The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds:"