The king commanded Joab, Abishai, and Ittai, "Treat the young man Absalom gently for my sake." All the people heard the king's orders to all the commanders about Absalom. - 2 Samuel 18:5
Absalom, David's son, rebelled against his father and as a result, there was war. Yet, before entering into battle, David ordered his commanders not to harm his son, the very leader of the rebellion! Not only was it an unreasonable command, it was unwise. David's desires were a hindrance to wise leadership. You cannot defeat an enemy and protect him at the same time.
On the other hand, it seems we try to do this all the time. We attempt to win the battle against our enemy (usually, the flesh), but also try to keep this enemy from harm in the process. You can't defeat the flesh and preserve it, too. It is not only impossible, it is truly unwise, and usually ends in horrible defeat.
Our enemy (our flesh) must die.
Give them nothing. Take from them everything. - Leonidas the First, King of Sparta
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