The Wisdom of Heeding Warnings

Verses:2 Samuel 2:18-23  "Now the three sons of Zeruiah were there: Joab, Abishai, and Asel. Asahel was as fleet-footed as a wild gazelle. And Asahel pursued Abner, and in his pursuit he did not turn to the right or to the left from following Abner. Then Abner looked behind him and said, 'Is that you, Asahel?' He answered, 'It is I.' And Abner said to him, 'Turn aside to your right or to your left, and seize one of the young men and take his armor for yourself.' But Asahel would not turn aside from following him. And Abner said again to Asahel, 'Turn aside from following me. Why should I strike you to the ground? How then could I face Joab your brother?' However, he refused to turn aside. Therefore Abner struck him in the stomach with the butt of his spear, so that the spear came out of his back, and he fell there and died on the spot."

In the midst of life's battles, it's easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment and ignore the warnings and advice of others. But the story of Asahel and Abner serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of heeding warnings and listening to the counsel of others.

Asahel, with his speed and agility, was confident in his own abilities and refused to listen to Abner's warnings. But Abner, with his wisdom and experience, knew that Asahel's pursuit was futile and would only end in tragedy. Despite Abner's repeated warnings, Asahel refused to turn aside, and ultimately, it was his downfall.

This story teaches us that wisdom and commonsense are often more valuable than physical strength and power. By ignoring Abner's warnings, Asahel demonstrated a lack of wisdom and prudence, which ultimately led to his demise.

As we navigate the challenges of life, let us remember the importance of heeding warnings and listening to the counsel of others. Let us not be like Asahel, who refused to listen and ultimately suffered the consequences. Instead, let us be wise and discerning, seeking guidance and advice from those who have gone before us.

Let us also recognize that warnings and advice can come from unexpected sources. Abner, the enemy of Asahel, was the one who warned him of the danger of his pursuit. Let us be open to receiving guidance and wisdom from anyone, regardless of their background or position.

Prayer: 

God, help us to be wise and discerning, to listen to advice and warnings from others, and to trust in Your guidance and protection. May we avoid the pitfalls of pride and self-reliance, and instead, find a path forward that is marked by humility and wisdom. Amen.