Understanding the push-pull dynamics of life is important not only for success but safety. We must understand when it becomes necessary to pursue a cause of action or even a person, and also when to pull back. Whereas courage gives the impetus to push or pursue, it is wisdom that determines when to stop. Asahel failed to recognize this truth and paid for it with his life. When hostility broke out between the remnants of Saul’s army and the men of David, Asahel, the brother of Joab, pursued Abner who was captain over Saul’s army. It is not clear why he made Abner his target. Would killing him have meant more medals for Asahel? Anyway, Abner warned him to back off. He advised him to go after one of the young men and take his armour. Abner appealed to the sentiment existing between him and Joab. It was after all entreaties failed that Abner struck and killed Asahel.

“As important as ambition is, it can prove disastrous when it becomes inordinate… Ambition must never make us go against principles, ethics, or the voice of reason.”

Some deaths are avoidable. Ashael’s death was one of them. Inordinate ambition brought Asahel to a premature end. As important as ambition is, it can prove disastrous when it becomes inordinate. Other characters who would make the list of people with unguarded ambition were Absalom and Adonijah. Incidentally, all of them met their untimely death. Ambition must never make us go against principles, ethics, or the voice of reason. God put these things in place for our peace of mind as well as safety.