2Samuel:3

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* Verse 1-6 - The length of this war tried the faith and patience of David , and made his settlement at last the more welcome . The contest between grace and corruption in the hearts of believers , may fitly be compared to this warfare . There is a long war between them , the flesh lusting against the spirit , and the spirit against the flesh ; but as the work of holiness is carried on , corruption , like the house of Saul , grows weaker and weaker ; while grace , like the house of David , grows stronger and stronger . * Verse 7-21 - Many , like Abner , are not above committing base crimes , who are too proud to bear reproof , or even the suspicion of being guilty . While men go on in sin , and apparently without concern , they are often conscious that they are fighting against God . Many mean to serve their own purposes ; and will betray those who trust them , when they can get any advantage . Yet the Lord serves his own designs , even by those who are thus actuated by revenge , ambition , or lust ; but as they intend not to honour him , in the end they will be thrown aside with contempt . There was real generosity both to Michal and to the memory of Saul , in David 's receiving the former , remembering probably how once he owed his life to her affection , and knowing that she was separated from him partly by her father 's authority . Let no man set his heart on that which he is not entitled to . If any disagreement has separated husband and wife , as they expect the blessing of God , let them be reconciled , and live together in love . * Verse 22-39 - Judgments are prepared for such scorners as Abner ; but Joab , in what he did , acted wickedly . David laid Abner 's murder deeply to heart , and in many ways expressed his detestation of it . The guilt of blood brings a curse upon families : if men do not avenge it , God will . It is a sad thing to die like a fool , as they do that any way shorten their own days , and those who make no provision for another world . Who would be fond of power , when a man may have the name of it , and must be accountable for it , yet is hampered in the use of it ? David ought to have done his duty , and then trusted God with the issue . Carnal policy spared Joab . The Son of David may long delay , but never fails to punish impenitent sinners . He who now reigns upon the throne of David , has a kingdom of a nobler kind . Whatever He doeth , is noticed by all his willing people , and is pleasing to them . Henry ' _2__4 **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary **** _

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