Abner, the commander of Ish-Bosheth’s army proposed a contest between twelve men from his side and from David’s side. Each man from both sides killed his opponent, which ended up leading to an escalating conflict.

After that, the battle turned fierce. There were many casualties on each side. Eventually, Abner realized that continuing the battle would be fruitless. He suggested a truce, which Joab, who was David’s nephew and commander of his forces, agreed to. The fighting then ceased, and both sides withdrew. Although many lives were lost, in the end, the battle accomplished nothing.

We can learn in this passage that, when human pride is all that is at stake, it oftentimes leads to tragedy. Neither side sought the Lord in this conflict, and it ended in nothing but death.
Application: Father, help us to lay down our weapons of anger and pride, just as Abner and Joab eventually sought a truce. Instead, help us to be peace makers.
One Word: Avoid senseless battles.