Abner presented David’s case to be king to the elders of Israel. He persuaded the Benjaminites and the rest of Israel to switch sides. Was Michal part of the things he spoke about in conversations? The daughter of Saul was pleased to be united with David and thought he was the true king–that could persuade people. Who knows, but she had to act a certain way for people to believe what Abner was saying.
“And Abner also spake in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and that seemed good to the whole house of Benjamin.”
She must have conducted herself well. David was pleased enough to throw Abner a feast.
Did Michal attend? Would she have been allowed? Thanks to her, Abner was honored and more people recognized David as king. It was a sort of celebration for her arrival—even if she had come back as a prop and trophy.
The feast was a signal that David trusted Abner, and Michal and other Benjaminites had security. This proved untrue, and way too soon, she was reminded she couldn’t let her guard down.
Not long after the feast, Abner was dead.
Murdered by David’s nephews, Joab and Abishai, in revenge for their brother’s death during the war between the houses of Saul and David.
How could Michal trust David now? He made it a point for all the people to know it wasn’t his fault and Joab would be responsible. David gave an emotional performance at Abner’s burial. He “wept at the grave of Abner; and all the people wept.”
There’s a probability that Michal was one of those people. Was she also scared?
Abner’s death was terrifying for the house of Saul. This was a warning to watch out.
Source
2 Samuel 3
