Compassion

Compassion.  Even in the midst of a civil war, King David loved and had compassion for all.  After Saul’s death, David was supposed to be king over all of Israel, but David initially only becomes king over Judah, and Saul’s son Ishbosheth became king over Israel (2 Samuel 2:8-9).  Abner, who was the commander of Saul’s army was the one who instilled Ishbosheth as king.  Despite this, when Abner was killed at the hands of Joab, King David ordered Joab and those with him to tear their clothes, put on sackcloth, and mourn over Abner (2 Samuel 3:31).  King David also wept aloud at Abner’s tomb sang a lament of him (v.32-33).  Despite what Abner had done, David respected the leadership offices, just like he had done when King Saul was alive.  This is the mark of quality in a true leader.