Day 81 - Rise of a King: Triumph, Tragedy, and the Path to the Throne

Welcome to Day 81 of The Glory Team Bible Reading plan and we are beginning the book of 1 Samuel. In 2 Samuel 1-3, the opening chapters of 2 Samuel depict a pivotal transition in Israel's history. Following Saul’s death, David mourns the fallen king and his son Jonathan, showcasing his deep loyalty despite their troubled past. As David is anointed king of Judah, a rivalry emerges between his house and that of Saul’s surviving son, Ish-bosheth, who is backed by Saul’s former commander, Abner. The nation is divided, leading to a power struggle filled with shifting alliances, betrayals, and bloodshed. Eventually, Abner defects to David, but his life is cut short by Joab’s vengeance. As David’s influence grows, the path is paved for him to become king over all Israel, setting the stage for a unified kingdom under God’s chosen ruler.

2 Samuel Chapter 1: After Saul and Jonathan’s deaths in battle, a messenger brings David the news, expecting a reward for claiming to have slain Saul. Instead, David executes the messenger for daring to strike the Lord’s anointed. Overcome with grief, David composes a heartfelt lament, honoring both Saul and Jonathan despite their past conflicts. His song reflects deep sorrow and respect, highlighting the tragedy of Israel’s fallen leaders. This moment showcases David’s humility and his ability to separate personal grievances from his reverence for God’s anointed. His response sets the tone for his future reign—one marked by honor, justice, and submission to God’s will.

2 Samuel Chapter 2: David seeks the Lord’s guidance and is anointed king over Judah in Hebron, while Saul’s general, Abner, installs Ish-bosheth as king over Israel. The kingdom is now divided, with Judah following David and the rest of Israel remaining under Saul’s lineage. A fierce battle breaks out between the two factions, led by Abner and David’s commander, Joab. The conflict results in bloodshed, including the death of Joab’s brother Asahel at Abner’s hand. Though the battle ends with David’s forces gaining the upper hand, the tension between the two houses remains, setting the stage for future power shifts.

2 Samuel Chapter 3: The war between David’s house and Saul’s house continues, but David’s strength increases while Ish-bosheth’s weak leadership causes instability. Abner, angered by Ish-bosheth’s accusations, defects to David, offering to unite Israel under his rule. David welcomes the alliance, seeing it as God’s fulfillment of his destiny. However, Joab, still seeking revenge for his brother Asahel’s death, deceitfully murders Abner, jeopardizing David’s efforts for unity. David publicly mourns Abner’s death, distancing himself from Joab’s actions and proving to Israel that he is a just and righteous leader. This chapter further solidifies David’s growing influence and paves the way for his ultimate kingship.