1. Motive — True motives inevitably reveal themselves (3:6‑12).

• Observation: Abner exemplifies manipulation and a hunger for power (3:6‑7).
• Observation: Abner demonstrates fickle self‑loyalty, switching allegiances to serve his own interest (3:8‑12).

Action: Examine your own motives. Are there areas where self‑interest, pride, or manipulation are creeping in? Instead of covering them up, ask God to expose them and transform them.

2. Distraction — Negative feelings can blind us (3:21‑30).

• Observation: Joab could not see past the death of his brother Asahel (3:21‑25).
• Observation: Joab prioritized personal vengeance over what was right (3:26‑30).

Action: Ask the tough question, “Am I letting resentment or grief cloud my judgment?”

3. Scheming — No human scheme justifies moral compromise (4:1‑8).

• Observation: With Abner gone, Ish‑Bosheth, the puppet king, was vulnerable (4:1‑4).
• Observation: Others sought to exploit his weakness for personal gain (4:5‑8).

Action: Examine your actions. Ask, “Am I scheming or taking advantage of the vulnerable?”

4. Grace — Choosing God’s way over natural impulses (4:9‑12).

• Observation: David saw through schemes and refused to honor the wicked (4:9‑12).
• David acted graciously toward Saul’s family, even when he could have sought revenge (4:12).

Action: Look at others through the lens of grace — and never compromise your morals.

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