Abner
Abner is a prominent figure in 1 and 2 Samuel. Abner was, in fact, both the cousin of Israel’s first king, Saul, and the commander of Saul’s army (1 Samuel 14:50). He was respected by the king and was granted a place next to Saul at meals (1 Samuel 20:25).
Throughout Saul’s reign, the people of Israel were embroiled in a war with the Philistines (1 Samuel 14:52). In one memorable battle, the Philistines sent forth a giant champion named Goliath, who taunted God’s people and remained unchallenged for 40 days due to his great height and strength. However, a young man named David accepted Goliath’s challenge and, through God’s power, defeated the giant with only a sling and a stone. Abner was at King Saul’s side when Goliath fell, and Saul asked him who David’s father was. Abner did not know, since David was not a part of his army. So Abner brought young David, who was still holding Goliath’s head, before the king (1 Samuel 17:55–58).
Throughout Saul’s reign, the people of Israel were embroiled in a war with the Philistines (1 Samuel 14:52). In one memorable battle, the Philistines sent forth a giant champion named Goliath, who taunted God’s people and remained unchallenged for 40 days due to his great height and strength. However, a young man named David accepted Goliath’s challenge and, through God’s power, defeated the giant with only a sling and a stone. Abner was at King Saul’s side when Goliath fell, and Saul asked him who David’s father was. Abner did not know, since David was not a part of his army. So Abner brought young David, who was still holding Goliath’s head, before the king (1 Samuel 17:55–58).