As David begins to assume the mantle of leadership over Israel, God’s first step is for his to become King over the tribe of Judah in Hebron. From there, David sends a message of grace and lovingkindness to the men of Jabesh-gilead, thanking them for how they cared for the remains of Saul and his sons. In contrast to David, Abner rejects David as God’s new king for Israel and sets Ish-bosheth, Saul’s only surviving son, on the throne of Israel. His actions lead to a bloody civil war. As we compare these two men, we are brought to see the great difference between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of men.
