Civil War: Judah vs. Israel

Summary

The Chosen People with Yael Eckstein Episode: Civil War: Judah vs. Israel Release Date: July 6, 2025

---

Overview

In the gripping episode titled "Civil War: Judah vs. Israel," hosted by Yael Eckstein, listeners are transported into a dramatic retelling of a pivotal moment in the Old Testament narrative. This episode delves deep into the political and emotional turmoil that unfolds as the united kingdom of Israel begins to fracture, setting the stage for a civil war between the tribes of Judah and Israel. Through masterful storytelling, the episode explores themes of loyalty, power, destiny, and the consequences of ambition.

---

Anointing of David as King of Judah

The episode opens with a somber reflection on the downfall of King Saul, the first monarch of Israel, whose defeat leads to disarray among his followers. Amidst the chaos, David, a humble shepherd with a warrior's heart, emerges as a beacon of hope for the scattered tribes of Israel.

• Abner’s Claim to Power

  Abner, Saul's formidable commander, addresses the elders of Israel, asserting the legitimacy of Ish Bosheth, Saul's son, as the rightful king. He passionately declares, “Kings are made by birth, not by ballads” (06:51).

• David’s Divine Anointing

  Contrasting Abner's assertion, the elders of Judah proclaim David as their king, not through lineage but through divine selection. Abner warns, “If we anoint David… Kings are made by birth, not by ballads” (07:06), highlighting the tension between traditional succession and divine favor.

Rising Tensions and Military Preparations

As the political landscape shifts, both factions prepare for potential conflict. David trains his men with unwavering dedication, emphasizing the importance of strength and unity.

• David’s Leadership

  David instructs his warriors, stating, “The strength of your strike lies not in your arms. It begins with your feet” (11:48), underscoring his belief in disciplined and grounded leadership.

• Abner’s Strategic Mindset

  Abner strategizes the defense of the throne, recognizing the fragility of the kingdom and the need to maintain stability. He asserts, “I serve Saul's house, then, because I serve our nation” (18:27), showcasing his unwavering loyalty to Israel.

The Brink of Civil War

The episode builds tension as Abner contemplates a preemptive strike against Judah to prevent further fragmentation of the kingdom.

• Abner’s Proposal

  Abner proposes a calculated military action, stating, “Let me deliver Israel from the Philistines. Let me restore what we've lost” (10:06). His pragmatic approach contrasts with the idealistic vision of unity under David’s leadership.

• David’s Reluctant Support

  Despite his position as King of Judah, David grapples with the moral implications of civil war. When offered to lead the assault, he insists, “I'll go with you” (15:12), but Abner declines, emphasizing the need to avoid unnecessary bloodshed.

Clash of Commanders

A pivotal moment occurs when Abner and Joab, David’s fierce commander, confront each other under a weeping willow. Their dialogue is charged with old resentment and unspoken truths.

• Abner’s Accusation

  Abner confronts Joab with a personal grievance, “Tell me, Abner” (18:27), revealing his contempt for the ambition driving Joab’s loyalty to David over his allegiance to Saul’s lineage.

• Joab’s Oath of Vengeance

  As emotions flare, Joab threatens Abner, declaring, “Know this, Abner. My brother's blood will not be forgotten” (29:10), foreshadowing the inevitable conflict between the two leaders.

The Battle of Gibeon

The episode reaches its climax with the Battle of Gibeon, a meticulously orchestrated confrontation between Judah and Israel.

• Strategic Warfare

  Joab employs a tactical advantage, holding the center to trap Abner’s forces while flanking them with disciplined assault teams. Yael Eckstein narrates, “It was not just a battle. It was a trap” (22:29), highlighting the strategic genius of Judah’s forces under David’s leadership.

• Tragic Loss

  The duel between Abner and Ar Sahel ends in tragedy as Abner kills Ar Sahel, a heartbreaking moment that underscores the personal costs of war. Abner mournfully declares, “God help me, I warned you” (26:16), reflecting his inner turmoil amidst the violence.

Confrontation and Resolution

In the aftermath of the battle, Joab pursues Abner, driven by a mix of duty and personal vendetta. Their final confrontation is laden with tension and unspoken respect.

• Abner’s Plea for Peace

  Abner attempts to broker peace, warning, “Shall the sword devour forever if you pursue me?” (28:13), advocating for an end to the cycle of violence.

• Joab’s Restraint

  Despite the intense emotions, Joab ultimately spares Abner’s life, understanding the futility of further bloodshed. This act of mercy signifies a moment of clarity and the high cost of ambition, as Joab states, “Know this, Abner” (29:10), leaving the future of the divided kingdom uncertain.

Key Themes and Insights

• Divine Will vs. Human Ambition

  The episode juxtaposes divine destiny with human-driven power struggles, illustrating how personal ambitions can either align with or diverge from a greater purpose.

• Leadership and Responsibility

  Both David and Abner showcase different leadership styles—David’s compassionate and strategic approach versus Abner’s loyal and pragmatic mindset—highlighting the complexities of guiding a nation through turbulent times.

• The Cost of War

  The narrative poignantly portrays the emotional and physical toll of civil conflict, emphasizing the loss and sorrow that accompany the pursuit of power.

Notable Quotes

• Abner on Kingship: “Kings are made by birth, not by ballads” (06:51).
• David on Strength: “The strength of your strike lies not in your arms. It begins with your feet” (11:48).
• Joab’s Oath: “My brother's blood will not be forgotten” (29:10).

---

Conclusion

"Civil War: Judah vs. Israel" is a compelling episode that masterfully blends historical narrative with timeless lessons on leadership, faith, and the human condition. Through rich dialogue and emotional depth, Yael Eckstein brings to life the struggles that shaped the destiny of a nation, offering listeners profound insights into the complexities of power, loyalty, and divine purpose.

---

This summary is crafted based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the key elements and emotional journey of the episode for those who have not listened.

Transcript

[David]

Previously on the Chosen People. And so Saul, the first king of Israel, pressed the hilt of his sword against the earth, its point at his chest. He closed his eyes.

[Abner]

I was the I was the first, but not the last.

[David]

The battle was lost. The men scattered like lost sheep. But in the hills of Judah, a shepherd stood prepared to retrieve the scattered sheep of Israel. The two figures approaching were none other than his brothers, Joab and Arsahel. The three collided into each other, embracing with tears and laughs.

[Abner]

We've been sent by the elders of Judah. A company of men is just around the bend, ready to escape.

[David]

When they came within a mile of the gates, they could hear it, a low thrum. As they neared, the sound grew louder. The crowd parted, revealing the elders of Judah atop a high platform of carved stone.

[Abner]

The giant slayer. The harpist of Bethlehem. The warrior who would not lift his hand against the king. The outlaw who guarded our borders when our king would not. You have been chosen by God and confirmed by the voice of the people. David, son of Jesse, rise now as King of Judah, not by birthright, but by divine anointing.

[Yael Eckstein]

This is an iHeart podcast. Every business has an ambition. PayPal open is the platform designed to help you grow into yours with business loans so you can expand and access to hundreds of millions of PayPal customers worldwide. And your customers can pay all the ways they want with PayPal, Venmo, pay later and all major cards so you can focus on scaling up when it's time to get growing. There's one platform for all business PayPal open grow today at paypalopen.com loans subject to approval in available locations. Shalom, my friends. From here in the holy land of Israel, I'm Yael Eckstein with International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. And welcome to the chosen people. Each day we'll hear a dramatic story inspired by the Bible. Stories filled with timeless lessons of faith, love and the meaning of life. Through Israel's story, we will find this truth that we are all chosen for something great. So take a moment today to follow the podcast. If you're feeling extra grateful for these stories, we would love it if you left us a review. I read every single one of them. And if you're interested in hearing more about the prophetic life saving work of the fellowship, you can visit ifcj.org let's begin this July 4th. Celebrate freedom from spills, stains and overpriced furniture with Annabe, the only machine washable sofa inside and out where designer quality meets budget friendly pricing. Sofas start at just $699, making it the perfect time to upgrade your space. Annabe's Pet Friendly Stain resistant and interchangeable slipcovers are made with high performance fabric that's built for real life. You'll love the cloud like comfort of hypoallergenic high resilience foam that never needs fluffing and a durable steel frame that stands the test of time with modular pieces you can rearrange anytime. It's a sofa that adapts to your Life. Now through July 4th, get up to 60% off site [e-mail] Every order comes with a 30 day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not in love, send it back for a full refund. No return shipping, no restocking fees. Every penny back. Declare independence from dirty outdated furniture. Shop [e-mail] Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply. For some of us, personal finances aren't just personal. They include a lot more people than ourselves. Loved ones neighbor, the communities we call home and the causes we hold in our hearts. At Thrivent, we help plan your financial picture with the bigger picture in mind. Because even though our business is helping guide your finances, our ambition is to make it mean so much more. Thrivent Where Money means more Connect with [e-mail] Every business has an ambition. PayPal Open is the platform designed to help you grow into yours with business loans so you can expand and access to hundreds of millions of PayPal customers worldwide. And your customers can pay all the ways they want with PayPal, Venmo, pay later and all major cards so you can focus on scaling up when it's time to get growing. There's one platform for all business PayPal open grow today at paypalopen.com loans subject to approval in available locations.

[Abner]

The palace.

[David]

Of Saul loomed like a tomb atop the heights of Gibeah. Its high towers and black stone walls bore the chill of death, the air inside still heavy with the memory of the king who once brooded within its halls. Within the throne room, torches hissed as the elders of the eleven other tribes of Israel gathered. Ish Bosheth, the last son of Saul, now sat on the throne. He was a thin and long faced man, his limbs too delicate for armor. He was near 40 years old, but still gave off the presence of a child. His father's great throne seemed to swallow him. Beside him stood Abner, Saul's commander and right hand. He did not look at Ishbo Sheth as he spoke to the elders, nor did he need to Everyone knew who was really in charge.

[Abner]

Elders of Israel, we stand at a precipice. One misstep, and this nation fractures beyond repair. Throne of Israel was carved for Saul by the prophet Samuel himself. To abandon his blood now would be to spit upon that legacy.

[David]

The elders listened, nodding with the hollow weight of old men clinging to order. Some feared change. Others feared David. Abner pressed on.

[Abner]

If we anoint David this southern shepherd, this outlaw king of Judah, we invite every ambitious sword to claim the crown by force or flattery. Kings are made by birth, not by ballads. And yet.

[David]

A wrinkled elder from Dan called out from the back. He spoke with the same curiosity many of the elders felt. Prince Jonathan laid down his rights for David.

[Abner]

He gave him his ring, his armor. That cannot be ignored.

[David]

There was silence. Ish Bosheth shifted uncomfortably, pale and fidgeting. He cleared his throat, attempting regality.

[Abner]

I am Saul's son. Royal blood flows through my veins. My claim is not for debate. We should have David's head for his treachery.

[David]

The boy stepped down from the dais, trying to own the room, but his words were thin and his confidence brittle.

[Abner]

If David's allowed to ascend to the throne, that means any mongrel off the streets will think they have a claim. My father wanted him dead for a reason. He's a treacherous little rat. He'll meet the edge of my blade sooner or later.

[David]

Ish Bosheth swung his father's sword around clumsily, knocking over a pitcher of wine which splashed onto the servant girls.

[Abner]

Clean this up. Why is that here anyway?

[David]

Abner's lip twitched. Ish Bosheth's arrogance did little to lighten the elder's concern. He needed the boy to remain silent. Ish Bosheth did little to help his claim by parading himself like a spoiled child.

[Abner]

My king, perhaps you should go rest and prepare for tonight's feast. We will settle this tonight over mead and meat.

[David]

Ish Bo Sheth nodded at that, turning on his heels and clapping for his attendants to follow. He exited the throne room with the procession behind him. When the doors closed, Abner let out a long sigh. He placed a single hand on the throne, wanting to sit upon it. Feeling he deserved to, but restrained himself. He spoke to the elders plainly.

[Abner]

I'm not blind, brothers. I see what you see. Ispasheth is a petulant child, but he is their rightful heir. Abner, the kingdom is young. It is not too late to name.

[David]

Another house to lead us.

[Abner]

I agree. But to crown David would be to reward Judah for its show of dominance. By anointing a king, they communicated to the other tribes that they viewed themselves as a king of their own.

[David]

The elders nodded. Judah was the most prominent tribe in Israel. Jacob himself had already appointed it, the first among the tribes.

[Abner]

And not only this, but word is that David worked under the King of Gath. Do we really trust him to march against the Philistines?

[David]

More murmurs from the elders. Abner knew he was gaining momentum.

[Abner]

You know me, gentlemen. I led our armies under Saul. I fought at Jilboa and lived. I do not ask you to kneel to that boy. I ask you to trust the sword that stands beside him. Let Ish Bosheth wear the crown. Let him speak the prayers and ride at festivals. But the fight. Leave the fight to me. Let me deliver Israel from the Philistines. Let me restore what we've lost. And when our enemies lie broken, then we can speak again of appointing a new king. One that will represent all the tribes, not just Big brother Judah.

[David]

He let the silence settle like ash upon the room. The elders looked at each other and nodded in agreement.

[Abner]

So be it. The crown remains in Gabeah. Ish Bosheth shall be king.

[David]

The others echoed him, some with resignation, others with relief. Abner stood tall. He had what he wanted for now, but he knew how fragile the kingdom was. The sun hung like a burning coin above the hills of Hebron. Sweat slicked David's brow, his curls damp against his forehead. He stood in the yard behind the barracks, sword in hand. He was training his men, modeling his movements with a piece of staked timber. He brought his blade down upon it with thunderous might. The woods split clean in two, sending a spray of splinters into the air. David turned to the young men who were watching him.

[Abner]

The strength of your strike lies not in your arms. It begins with your feet. Your stance is your truth.

[David]

Without it, all else fails.

[Abner]

A warrior with unsteady footing is like. Like a house built upon sand. A gust of wind and all comes down.

[David]

They nodded and tried to mimic him, some better than others. He watched them with pride. David spent as much time with his men as possible. Their hearts were united on those training grounds. David turned to his left, seeing Joab training with his younger brothers, Arsahel and Abishai. Joab had intentional, calculated movements. Every stroke of his sword had been planned. Abishai was instinctual, responding to everything that came his way with grace. Ar Sahel was quick, relying on his speed to get the upper hand in all of it. David couldn't help but feel Regret. Regret that he'd never shared these relationships with his own brothers. Not like that. He gathered the brothers. Along with Jashabim and Benaiah. Joab had been named commander of David's armies, while Benaiah had been named captain of David's royal guard. Titles well earned. Titles that would be put to the test. They leaned over a large stone table with maps and ledgers scattered throughout.

[Abner]

What threat do you see rising first?

[David]

Joab didn't hesitate.

[Abner]

Abner.

[Yael Eckstein]

Job and Abner have hated each other.

[David]

As long as I can remember.

[Abner]

That has nothing to do with it. The tribes have named Ishbosheth King. Abner commands what remains of Saul's host. He gathers men, fortifies cities, and speaks of uniting the kingdom under I believe he'll strike before summer ends.

[David]

David was quiet. The name Ishbosheth did not stir. Fear. Only a sense of pity. But Abner. Abner was a different matter.

[Abner]

Then the war is not with the son of Saul, but with the sword that swings for him. Aye. And if we strike first and strike hard, it might end in a single blow. Civil war. Israel against Judah, Brother against brother.

[David]

Jashabeem's ears perked at David's tone.

[Abner]

David, I can feel your heart stirring. But this isn't a matter of honor.

[David]

You're the king of Judah.

[Abner]

We can't allow Abner the chance to march against our walls. I understand. But I will not allow blood to be spilled carelessly. We'll meet them, show our strength and posture against them, but we will not annihilate them. We'll show them we can't be dominated. And hopefully that will bring us back to the negotiating table. I will take 500 of our finest and meet Abner on the field. A single victory may be all that is needed.

[David]

I'll go with you.

[Abner]

No. No, David. This isn't the right time. If Israel and Judah are to unite again, you can't have Israelite blood on your hands.

[David]

David nodded and dismissed them all. Joab turned to leave, but David's voice called him back.

[Abner]

Joab.

[David]

The commander paused.

[Abner]

In all things, remember, the Lord honors a merciful heart.

[David]

Joab's jaw flexed. He bowed low, but the wince that passed across his face did not go unnoticed. Mercy was not a language Joab spoke often. Still he submitted.

[Abner]

As you command, my king.

[David]

Then he was gone. Gathering the chosen few, the blades, the spears, and the shields, they would ride to meet Abner in the hills between two thrones, one of blood and one of oil. The fog hung low over the brook of Gibeon coiling around the roots of ancient trees. The water flowed gently between the gathered hosts of Israel and Judah, a quiet stream dividing one nation into two. On opposite banks, the two armies waited, watched, shifting uncomfortably with every gust of breeze. They were all Hebrews, kinsmen by blood, by covenant, by God himself. And yet they stood on the edge of civil war, blades sheathed, hearts clenched. Joab of Judah and Abner of Israel both stood beneath a weeping willow to negotiate terms of combat. Joab's brothers were behind him. Ar Sahel couldn't sit still while Abishai was cool as ice. The commanders had come to speak, not to fight. But even as they sat, there was an old venom between them. It was Abner who spoke first. His voice was calm but laced with arrogance.

[Abner]

You've come a long way, Joab. But I must ask why? The throne rests beneath my banner. We have the tribes. We have the numbers. The house of Saul yet stands. We don't have to do this. Lay down your claim and let the crown return to its rightful heir. Rightful? Abner, you and I both know who Ish Boseeth is. And we also know that Judah alone could grind your entire host into dust if David willed it. This isn't about numbers. Not to us. This is about truth. This is about who was chosen. Spare me the poetry. I know what this is. You wanted command under Saul and were denied for me. Now you throw your sword behind a shepherd because he'll make you a commander. You don't care about the truth. You care for power.

[David]

Joab's hand tightened around the hilt at his side.

[Abner]

I serve Saul's house, then, because I serve our nation. I serve David now for the same reason. I'm a servant of Israel. Always will be. But you, Abner, you serve only yourself. With Ish Bosheth, you are a king in all but name. That boy is a puppet, a pale reed of a man whose spine is held up by your will and ambition. Tell me, Abner.

[David]

Joab leaned forward, his voice barely above a whisper.

[Abner]

Is what they say true? That you've taken Hijabah Sol's concubine as your own? Was she yours to lie with? Or do you wear the king's crown when no one is watching?

[David]

Abner drew his sword. In an instant. Ar Sahel and Abishai were quick to draw theirs, but Joab gestured for them to lower.

[Abner]

Say another word and I'll gut you where you stand.

[David]

The two men faced each other, warriors, both seasoned, both deadly. A single lunge, a single misstep and it would set everything in motion. Neither wanted to make it more sloppy than it needed to be. They were too wise for such things. Even still, Joab loved that he could get a rise out of Abner. Abner stepped up back and sheathed his sword.

[Abner]

Let the young man rise and contend before us. My men against yours.

[David]

Joab smirked at that. They weren't Joab's men. They were David's. And that was a hidden strength Abner would soon discover.

[Abner]

Yes, let them rise.

[David]

The champions stood first. 12 from Judah, 12 from Israel. They looked like statues beneath the trees, the fog coiling around their armor. Then a single horn sounded, low and mournful, and they ran. The first collision was like a crack of thunder. Each man was matched. Blow for blow, step for step, they grappled, locked arms, and fell into the muck together. Again and again, a sword found flesh, and the dying man drove his own blade home. They slew each other with mirrored precision. By the end, not one stood. 24 lay dead in the field, their corpses crisscrossed like tangled roots. It was a grim omen. For a time, neither army moved. Joab stood tall upon a rise, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. His brothers, Abishai and Arsahel, flanked him.

[Abner]

Soldier for soldier. We're evenly matched, but our united army is certainly better than theirs. If we kill Abner, we end this needless bloodshed. Agreed. My spear is poised for him. Easy. Remember your marks. Don't be hasty. He's seen more battle in his life. Life. Than the two of you combined. Obey my command. Understood?

[David]

The brothers nodded. Then Joab drew his blade and shouted to the rest of the men, today.

[Abner]

We fight for a new Israel. Today we fight for a kingdom united not by bloodlines, but by the will of the Lord. For David, God's anointed. For honor. For strength. For Judah. Roar like lions.

[David]

The cry roared up from the ranks behind him. Abner, jaw clenched, raised his sword and gestured forward.

[Abner]

Advance.

[David]

The armies crashed like storm tides. Blades met bone. Shields splintered. The field became a butcher's yard. Joab had chosen his ground well. Half his forces held the center, locking Abner's men in place, while. While the rest surged in from the flanks. It was not just a battle. It was a trap. The men of Judah, trained by David's own hand, moved with ruthless discipline. Abner's army, larger but less cohesive, buckled under the weight of their assault. The brook of Gibeon ran red that day. Abner's line collapsed by the time the sun reached its zenith. 360 of Israel's sons lay slain on the field, and the rest were broken and retreating into the woods. Clouds whirled, thunder clapped, and storm had come.

[Abner]

Abner yelled over the wind, fall back. We'll live to fight another day. Scatter and regroup.

[David]

His command was bitter in his mouth. One moment he had stood with pride. Now he ran with shame. Gnawing at his heels, Abner retreated up the jagged mountainside. Ar Sahel saw Abner retreating.

[Abner]

Abner's getting away. Leave him to his shame. But I can end this now. Asshael. Stop.

[David]

But Arshahel didn't listen. The youngest son of Zeruiah flew like the wind, light footed and fearless, his sword drawn and eyes set with fire. Joab and Abishai ran after him, higher and higher. Ar Sahel climbed until his feet touched the slick stones of the summit. The rain had begun to fall.

[Abner]

Is that you, Asahel?

[Yael Eckstein]

You're mine to kill.

[Abner]

You're a fool. Don't come any closer. Turn back and savor your triumphs. Not until I have your head.

[David]

Abner backed up all he could until he found the edge of the plateau. There was nowhere else to go. Arsahel was beneath him, approaching quickly. Abner turned slowly and drew the spear from his back.

[Abner]

Turn back, boy. I'm warning you. It doesn't need to end like this.

[David]

But Ar Sahel would not yield. His pride burned brighter than the storm.

[Abner]

If I slay you, this war ends. I'll bring your body to my king. The kingdom will be won again. Come closer and you die. It's simple as that. I have the high ground.

[David]

Arahel continued inching forward, poised to charge. Abner's face twisted, not in rage, but sorrow.

[Abner]

You have no foundation. I'll kill you if you come forward. Yeah.

[David]

Ar Sahel leapt, but the rain had made the rocks slick, and his footing was unsure. Abner cocked his elbows and thrust. The spear met flesh with a sickening crunch. Arsahel's breath caught. He did not scream. The spear. Spear point burst from his back. With a cry of anguish, Abner wrenched the spear free and the boy's body tumbled from the plateau. Down, down it fell, landing with a thud upon the rocks far below. The rain came harder now. Then lightning forked across the sky.

[Abner]

I warned you. God help me, I warned you.

[David]

Abner fled, disappearing into the trees. Joab and Abishai finally made it to the plateau. Joab stepped to the edge and looked down. There, far below, his brother's body lay broken, pierced through with a spear sprawled across the jagged rocks. Together, they climbed down. When they reached Arsahel, Joab knelt and cradled the corpse in his arms, drawing him close. Thunder cracked overhead. Joab's chest heaved, not with sobs, but with rage. He laid his brother down gently on the cold earth, pressed his forehead to Ar Sahel's, and then stood.

[Abner]

Abner.

[David]

The name curdled in Joab's mouth. He gripped the hilt of his blade, drew steel, and began to run. Abishai followed, sword in hand, the storm roaring around them. The two of them tore through the forest like wolves scenting blood. When they finally reached the edge of the woods where Abner was, the commander turned and lifted his arms.

[Abner]

Stop. Stop, Joab. I'm warning you.

[David]

Behind him, Abner's men emerged, hundreds of them, weary but armed.

[Abner]

You've won, Joab. If you seek vengeance on me now, your victory will be hollow. Your chest will be hollowed out when I rip your heart from its place. Asahel gave me no choice. You know that. The boy should have never pursued me. I begged him not to.

[David]

Abner's tone softened. He appealed to Joab's reason.

[Abner]

Shall the sword devour forever if you pursue me? You know how this ends. You may strike me down, but your death will follow. And my men will be slain, and yours will answer in kind. There will be no kingdom, Joab, only corpses.

[David]

Joab said nothing. Abishai laid a hand on his brother's arm.

[Abner]

He's right, brother. There's no victory here. Let him go.

[David]

Thunder clapped again, revealing the shadows underneath Joab's scowl.

[Abner]

As the Lord lives, Abner. If your tongue had not spoken, my sword would have not stopped until your men were drowned in blood.

[David]

Slowly, Joab drew his dagger and clenched the blade in his bare hand. Blood trickled down his palm and dripped onto the stones. He held out the bloodied blade.

[Abner]

Know this, Abner. My brother's blood will not be forgotten. The day will come when you answer for it.

[David]

Abner felt the words in his bones. Joab's words were no mere threat. They were a prophecy. Joab lifted his horn. It sounded. Joab's men heard and obeyed. The pursuit ended. Abner turned without another word and marched through the night. He and his men crossed the Jordan and dragged themselves into Mahanaim. With blood on their boots and weariness in their bones, Joab carried Ar Sahel home in his arms the entire way.

[Yael Eckstein]

This July 4th celebrate freedom from spills, stains, and overpriced furniture with Annabe, the only machine washable sofa inside and out where designer quality meets budget friendly pricing. Sofas start at just $699, making it the perfect time to upgrade your space. Annabe's Pet Friendly, Stain resistant and interchangeable slipcovers are made with high performance fabric that's built for real life. You'll love the cloud like comfort of hypoallergenic high resilience foam that never needs fluffing and a durable steel frame that stands the test of time with modular pieces you can rearrange anytime. It's a sofa that adapts to your Life. Now through July 4th get up to 60% off site [e-mail] Every order comes with a 30 day satisfaction guarantee. If you're not in love, send it back for a full refund. No return shipping, no restocking fees, every penny back. Declare independence from dirty outdated furniture. Shop [e-mail] Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply. For some of us, personal finances aren't just personal, they include a lot more people than ourselves, loved ones, neighbors, the communities we call home, and the causes we hold in our hearts. At Thrivent, we help plan your financial picture with the bigger picture in mind. Because even though our business is helping guide your finances, our ambition is to make it mean so much more. Thrivent Where Money Means more Connect with [e-mail] Every business has an ambition. PayPal Open is the platform designed to help you grow into yours with business loans so you can expand and access to hundreds of millions of PayPal customers worldwide. And your customers can pay all the ways they want with PayPal, Venmo, pay later and all major cards so you can focus on scaling up when it's time to get growing. There's one platform for all business PayPal open grow today at paypalopen.com loans subject to approval in available locations. If your faith has been kindled by this podcast and it has affected your life, we'd love it if you left a review. We read them and me personally, I cherish, cherish them. As you venture forth boldly and faithfully. I leave you with the biblical Blessing from Numbers 6. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face shine upon you. May he be gracious to you. May the Lord turn His face towards you and give you peace. Amen.

[David]

You can listen to the Chosen People with Yao Eckstein ad free by downloading and subscribing to the pray.com app today. This pray.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellavager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein. Edited by Alberto Avila Narrated by Paul Coltofianu Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and the opening prayer is voiced by John Moore. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. Special thanks to Bishop Paul Lanier, Robin Van Etten, Caleb Burrows, Jocelyn Fuller and the team at International Fellowship of Chris. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Pray.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People with Yael Eckstein, please rate and leave a.

[Yael Eckstein]

Review Every Business has an ambition PayPal open is the platform designed to help you grow into yours with business loans so you can expand and access to hundreds of millions of PayPal customers worldwide. And your customers can pay all the ways they want with PayPal, Venmo, pay later and all major cards so you can focus on scaling up when it's time to get growing. There's one platform for all business PayPal open grow today at paypalopen.com loans subject to approval in available locations for some of us, personal finances aren't just personal. They include a lot more people than ourselves, loved ones, neighbors, the communities we call home, and the causes we hold in our hearts. At Thrivent, we help plan your financial picture with the bigger picture in mind. Because even though our business is helping guide your finances, our ambition is to make it mean so much more. Thrivent, where Money means more Connect with [e-mail] here at the Almond Joy Factory.

[Abner]

Where tropical vibes abound, we use soft.

[David]

Fresh tasting coconut, the crunchy almonds and delicious chocolate candy.

[Abner]

Ah, but do you know what our most important ingredient is? Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don't. Almond Joy's got nuts and something even.

[David]

Way better than that.

[Abner]

Yes, Almond Joy is made with almonds and joy.

[Yael Eckstein]

This is Jana Kramer from Wind down with Jana Kramer. When we were deciding on our appliances for the house, Samsung was at the top of our list. And I love my Samsung appliances, especially because they're so reliable. And with my busy schedule, having reliable appliances has been a game changer. It's no wonder Samsung is the number one brand for customer satisfaction. That's why I'm excited to tell you all about Samsung's new line of smart appliances featuring their brand new Bespoke AI laundry Combo. This incredible magic machine washes and dries in one machine, one load. No transfers, no timers, no rewashing needed. New Bespoke AI appliances. This is home living made simple. For more information visit samsung.com bespoke 68 minute cycle based on 27 inch combos based on using a super speed cycle only with a 10 pound doe load cotton 50% plus polyester 50%. Individual results may vary based on actual load content. Does friendly have a taste? If it does, it's probably like hello's peppermint flavored anti plaque and whitening toothpaste. Brush away plaque, show tartar who's boss and remove surface stains to naturally whiten. Hello's thoughtful and flavor forward products make brushing your teeth feel like a confetti filled bathroom dance party. So say hello to hello with the always cruelty free never tested on animals toothpaste that's made to spread smiles. Visit helloproducts.com and let hello add some everyday yay into your life. This is an I Heart podcast.