How can we apply Abner's warning to our daily spiritual decisions? Setting the Scene Abner, commander of Saul’s army, is fleeing after a fierce skirmish. Asahel, a swift young warrior loyal to David, pursues him relentlessly. Abner knows that if Asahel presses on, tragedy awaits. Abner’s Urgent Warning “Abner again said to Asahel, ‘Turn aside from pursuing me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How could I show my face to your brother Joab?’” (2 Samuel 2:22) Why This Matters for Us • Abner’s plea is more than battlefield counsel; it shows love for life, foresight, and restraint. • Asahel ignores the warning, paying with his life (2 Samuel 2:23). • Scripture records this to teach us how a single stubborn decision can carry lifelong—and eternal—consequences. Principles for Daily Spiritual Decisions • Heed God-given cautions. – The Spirit warns through Scripture (Psalm 119:105), godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14), and conscience (Romans 2:15). • Evaluate motives. – Asahel’s pursuit was fueled by ambition and fame (2 Samuel 2:18). Check whether pride, impatience, or revenge is driving you (James 3:14–16). • Count the cost. – Abner asked, “Why should I strike you?” In other words, “Is this worth dying for?” Jesus echoes this calculus: “What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” (Matthew 16:26). • Stay teachable. – Asahel refused to “turn aside.” A soft heart remains willing to pivot when God redirects (Hebrews 3:7–8). • Protect relationships. – Abner worried about facing Joab afterward. Sin damages fellowship not only with God but also with others (Ephesians 4:30–32). Cross-References That Reinforce the Lesson • Proverbs 14:12—“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” • Hebrews 12:25—“See to it that you do not refuse Him who is speaking.” • 1 Corinthians 10:12—“So the one who thinks he is standing firm should be careful not to fall.” • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” Practical Application Steps 1. Start each decision with Scripture. Search for clear commands or principles before you proceed. 2. Run big choices through trusted, mature believers; let them be your “Abners.” 3. Pause when conviction strikes. A holy hesitation can spare you from costly missteps. 4. Ask, “Will this choice honor Christ and bless others, or might it wound them?” 5. Keep short accounts with God—confess and course-correct quickly (1 John 1:9). Closing Reflection Abner’s warning rings across the centuries: “Turn aside… why should harm come?” When we recognize dangers early, humble ourselves, and adjust our path, we exchange tragic endings for God’s best. Let every prompting of His Word find in us a heart ready to listen—and live. |
    |