2 Samuel 3:31 (ESV Strong's)
Then David said to Joab and to all the people who were with him, “Tear your clothes and put on sackcloth and mourn before Abner.” And King David followed the bier.
Subject: Giving Grace to others
To understand the above verse you and appreciate the character of David in these beginning years of his leadership, you have to understand the context of the story. Abner wears the leader of Saul's army. David would have served with Abner during his time of favor with Saul. They were not strangers to each other. When Saul, and his son Jonathan, died in battle, apparently, Abner, Saul's commander, did not die. Because of Abner's loyalty to Saul's family, he immediately makes Ishbosheth, Saul's son, the king. David takes notice of such loyalty. During this brief time of war between Ishbosheth/Abner and David and his commander, Joab, Abner kills Joab's brother. Joab takes vengeance on Abner, unknown by David, and kills Abner. It is in this context that the above verse records David's response. David was loyal to Saul and everyone related to Saul, all the way to the end. David's character in the beginning of his leadership demonstrated grace to others. He could have taken vengeance, himself, on those who pursued him. But, David understood loyalty and grace to those who were, at times, his enemies. Grace in the face of hardship and hatred is a remarkable trait for any leader. David extended grace as Abner, a real opportunists, was killed by Joab. Leadership must learn the art of grace.
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