Grace & Wisdom under Fire

How should we respond when tried by fire?  

Let us look at the example of Abigail.                                    

Her actions and words reflect the fruit of the Spirit.

Love-joy-peace-patience-kindness-goodness-faithfulness-gentleness-self-control. - Gal. 5:22-23

David & his men requested provisions of the wealthy Nabal to refresh them after extended time in the desert. They had protected and honored Nabal’s shepherds and herds. 

Yet the arrogant and foolish Nabal insulted David’s men.  He refused to show a hint of hospitality or gratitude.

David & 400 of his men planned to annihilate Nabal and his servants.  Servants in Nabal’s household sought Abigail’s help, she acted quickly and purposefully.

Abigail immediately packed a large quantity of food and drink to deliver to David and his men.  She  traveled along with the servants. 

• Abigail was prepared-provisions were ready.
• She was generous and courageous-Abigail traveled to deliver provisions.
• She was humble, though the wife of a wealthy, but foolish man.  She placed others above herself.
• Her actions/words prevented much bloodshed.

David, influenced by Abigail’s words and actions, reversed his plan to massacre Nabal & his household.

What consequences would she face when Nabal learned of her actions?                                                         

Abigail wisely waited until daybreak to communicate her actions to a sober Nabal.

The news caused Nabal great distress, his heart became as stone.                                                                               

Nabal life was taken by the LORD about 10 days following the incident.

David learned Abigail had become a widow, he remembered her wise intervention. David summoned Abigail to become his bride.  She became the mother of his 2nd son-Kileab (2 Samuel 3:3)

This account of Abigail, David & Nabal contains lessons to live by.   Their actions and decisions are seen in the following Scripture:  Romans 12:9-14, 16-19, 21

Let love be without hypocrisy.  Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good.  Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the LORD; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.  Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse…  Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly.  Do not be wise in your own estimation.  Never pay back evil for evil to anyone.  Respect  what is right in the sight of all men.  If possible, as far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.  Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay,” says the LORD. …do not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Gracious, Loving Father,

Thank you for Biblical examples of courageous characters in the face of intense and frightening situations.  Grant us courage, wisdom and strength to choose humility, generosity, and peace when it is in our power to do so.  Thank you for the sacrifice  and the example Christ is for each of us.  Thank You, Jesus.

In His Name, Amen.

Mischelle Oliver, Stephenville