Reading for May 1st

Read 2 Samuel 3.20-39
This story repeats that Abner left David in peace as a way of emphasizing David's innocence in Abner's death.
Joab's return after Abner had left (v. 22) suggests that David sent Joab away in order to prevent a confrontation.
In verse 25: Comings and goings are military maneuvers.
Joab is accusing Abner of spying.
In verse 27: Joab kills Abner in revenge for Abner killing Asahel (2.18-23).
The story hints that Joab may also have acted to preserve his place as army commander.
In verse 29: David curses Joab's descendants with illness because of his act.
A spindle may also mean a crutch.
In verse 30: Abishal is not mentioned in the story but may have been involved with Joab in planning Abner's murder.
In verse 31: Sackcloth was an unknown kind of material worn by mourners.
In verse 33: Fool is a translation of the Hebrew "nabal" and is reminiscent of the story in 1 Sam 25.
Comments or Questions..