First, Identify the Problem

 Read 2 Samuel 20. 

In spite of a leader's best efforts for unity, there will always be those with their own personal agendas. 

After the put down of Absalom's rebellion, this was a perfect time for national healing.  David never lost because he depended upon the Lord and the Lord guided his victories.  The king, in reestablishing his government, showed great grace and kindness to those who had opposed him.  Yet, at the end of chapter 19, there was no small contention between the tribe of Judah and the other tribes.  David was of Judah, but the other tribes felt some alienation. 

Then Sheba rose up.  The scripture refers to him as a worthless man of the tribe of Benjamin.  Remember, Saul, Israel's first king, was from this tribe.  He tried to take full advantage of the rift, probably to make himself the national leader.  

With civil war brewing, David sent Amasa, the new general, to muster Judah's army; Joab had been demoted for killing Absalom.   But when Amasa did not return on time, it seemed that he may have joined the opposition.  The king then called upon Abishai to go after Amasa, but Joab followed him.  Joab killed Amasa, one of his own cousins (1 Chronicles 2:16-17), presumably out of jealous revenge for his demotion. 

Taking matters into his own hands, Joab laid siege to the city of Abel without telling them why.  One very wise, peaceable woman saved the entire city that day.  

Insights for living:

1. Asking the right person the right question puts people to work on the right solution to the right problem.

It is unthinkable that all these soldiers spent enormous effort and time working on a project that was not needed.  No one thought to communicate first. 

2. Peace comes as a result of resolving the root issue. 

Identifying the real problem is half the solution. 

Proverbs 22:10-"Drive out a scoffer, and strife will go out, and quarreling and abuse will cease."