Saturday, September 26, 2026
City of Praise reflectionCommunity and fellowship — 2 Samuel 3:1-8
Community and fellowship
Today’s Scripture: 2 Samuel 3:1-8 (KJV)
- Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.
- And unto David were sons born in Hebron: and his firstborn was Amnon, of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess;
- And his second, Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;
- And the fourth, Adonijah the son of Haggith; and the fifth, Shephatiah the son of Abital;
- And the sixth, Ithream, by Eglah David’s wife. These were born to David in Hebron.
- And it came to pass, while there was war between the house of Saul and the house of David, that Abner made himself strong for the house of Saul.
- And Saul had a concubine, whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah: and Ish–bosheth said to Abner, Wherefore hast thou gone in unto my father’s concubine?
- Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ish–bosheth, and said, Am I a dog’s head, which against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a fault concerning this woman?
Guided reflection
Read 2 Samuel 3:1-8 slowly, then read the surrounding chapter. Follow the people, choices and consequences in the narrative. A recorded action is not automatically an example to imitate; consider how it relates to God’s faithfulness and justice.
Attend especially to 2 Samuel 3:1: “Now there was long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.”
Observe: Who is speaking or acting, and what changes across these verses? Identify a word, action or contrast in 2 Samuel 3:1-8 that helps you explain the passage in your own words.
Reflect: What does this passage teach about our responsibilities toward other people? Ground your answer in 2 Samuel 3:1 and its surrounding verses. If the connection to this month’s theme is indirect, let the passage’s own meaning lead.
Respond: Reach out to one person who may be overlooked and listen before offering advice. Write one sentence explaining how your response follows from 2 Samuel 3:1-8, and return to it this evening.
Put the Word into practice
Choose one truth from today’s passage. Write down one practical step you can take today, then ask God for grace to follow through.
Today’s prayer
Father, as I consider 2 Samuel 3:1, build patience and generosity in my relationships. Let the truth of this passage correct my assumptions and shape my response today. Help me practise what is faithful to Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Part of our Scripture-led study plan. Read the passage in context and use the prompts for personal reflection.