Sep 10, 2018
Division in the family of God is not only dangerous, it can be deadly. Polarization and conflict fueled by pride and self-centeredness can destroy fellowship and dishonor the name of God. Not only that, it grieves God. And when Abner, the military commander for the late king, Saul, decided to anoint Saul’s son, Ish-bosheth as the next king of Israel, it was motivated by self-interest. He was trying to maintain his position of power and prominence, and saw Ish-bosheth as the key to his future. But Abner’s efforts ended up diving the kingdom. He was placing his will over that of God. He had no business anointing or appointing anybody king, but his ego got the best of him. He wasn’t a big fan of David, and was willing to do just about anything to keep this former fugitive from justice from ascending to the throne of Israel. And for Abner, the will of God seemed to have meant nothing. He was going to do things his way, regardless the cost.