Preceded by this: "The war between the house of Saul and the house of David lasted a long time. David grew stronger and stronger, while the house of Saul grew weaker and weaker."
If the people knew who was going to win, was there any point in fighting? How does this apply to today? We know who wins in the end: "19 Then I saw the beast and the kings of the world and their armies gathered together to fight against the one sitting on the horse and his army. 20 And the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who did mighty miracles on behalf of the beast--miracles that deceived all who had accepted the mark of the beast and who worshiped his statue. Both the beast and his false prophet were thrown alive into the fiery lake of burning sulfur. 21 Their entire army was killed by the sharp sword that came from the mouth of the one riding the white horse. And the vultures all gorged themselves on the dead bodies." (Rev. 19, NLT)
Have we chosen what side we want to be on? What about the church? "I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought." (1 Cor 1:10, NIV) and "And having known their thoughts, He said to them, "Every kingdom having been divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house having been divided against itself will not stand." (Matt 12:25, BLB)
Do you have a quarrel with someone at church? at work? within your household? with another believer? with another church? with the government? ouch. That one seems really relevant right now. Also, knowing from experience, that we can't seem to resolve every conflict ourselves. It really does take two to tango. But we are called "17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."" (Rom 12, NIV) We must do our best and trust God with the rest, but yes, we must seek peace as much as possible.