20. The Defeat of Absalom (2 Samuel 18)

While Absalom took time to assemble an army from across Israel, and to have himself anointed and installed as king in Jerusalem, David prepared his experienced fighting men, along with others who joined his cause, in anticipation of the inevitable battle for the throne. Joab picked the battlefield, and surprising the opposing forces, launched an attack the resulted in a rout of Absalom's military. David, who should have rejoiced at the remarkable victory, plunged instead into a lament that threatened his reign and his kingdom more than Absalom had. Only the intervention of Joab saved the day.