Chapter 3 Footnote:
David suffered much heartache because of his many wives. Polygamy was a socially acceptable practice for kings at this time, although God specifically warned against it (Deut. 17:14-17). Sadly, the numerous sons born to David's wives caused him great trouble. Rape (13:14), murder (13:28), rebellion (15:13), and greed (1 Kings 1:5,6) all resulted from the jealous rivalries among the half brothers. Solomon, one of David's sons and his successor to the throne, also took many wives who eventually turned him away from God (! Kings 11:3,4).
It's important to study the WHOLE Bible. You could easily read a portion and conclude that it was okay to have many wives because David did. We can't interpret scripture verse by verse; we have to view it in light of all scripture.
Ish-Bosheth may have been right to speak out against Abner's behavior, but he didn't have the moral strength to maintain his authority. Lack of moral backbone became the root of Israel's troubles over the next four centuries. Only 4 of the next 40 kings of Israel were called "good." It takes courage and strength to stand firm in your convictions and to confront wrongdoing in the face of opposition. When you believe something is wrong, do not let yourself be talked out of your position. Firmly attack the wrong and uphold the right.
Joab took revenge for the death of his brother instead of leaving justice to God. But that revenge backfired on him (1 Kings 2:31-24). God will repay those who deserve it (Romans 12:19). Refuse to rejoice when your enemies suffer, and don't try to get revenge. Seeking revenge will ruin your own peace of mind and increase the chances of further retaliation.
Chapter 4 Footnote:
Ish-Bosheth was a man who took his courage from another man (Abner) rather than from God. When Abner died, Ish-Bosheth was left with nothing. In crisis and under pressure, he collapsed in fear. Fear can paralyze us, but faith and trust in God can overcome fear. If we trust in God, we will be free to respond boldly to the events around us.
Keep reading -- 271 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
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