1. A senseless battle (12-23)

Joab, David's nephew, was his commander-in-chief. When Joab and Abner met at the pool of Gibeon, there was a friendly competition which turned into a bloody battle, the beginning of a fratricidal war. In the height of this battle, Abner kills Joab's brother, Asahel, who refused to give up his pursuit of Abner. This event begats a never-dying personal grudge. How our pride and competitive spirit lead us into senseless wars and divisions!

2. An uneasy truce (24-32)

After Joab's brother was killed by Abner, Joab and another brother Abishai pursued Abner. The Benjamites rallied behind Abner and took a stand on a hilltop. As they suffered needless casualties, Abner made a plea for a truce with Joab to end the bitterness. Joab heeded Abner's call, and both armies retired from the battlefield. May we have Abner's humility to put an end to senseless fighting and stop devouring one another. May we love our fellow believers ardently and strive for unity in Christ.