David said to Abigail, “Praise be to the Lord , the God of Israel, who has sent you today to meet me. May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed this day and from avenging myself with my own hands. (1 Samuel 25:32-33 NIV)
One of my favourite women in scripture is Abigail.
We’re not told how she ended up being with a man like Nabal as a husband. It’s worth considering these marriages weren’t as romance driven as some modern approaches are. Nabal may have been a fool in a lot of things, but he obviously wasn’t that foolish when it came to his choice of wife. Here she is, though, lumbered with a fool for a husband.
Her actions in preventing David from shedding unnecessary blood is remarkable. Evidently her beauty was as much about what she had within her as it was about what she displayed. The appeal she makes to David is a great example of peacemaking and wisdom expressed. It’s clear that even David recognises this when he takes a step back from unleashing violent fury on the fool who disrespected the honour and respect shown to him and his herdsmen.
This episode is also a great example again of leaving things in the hands of God rather than taking matters in your own hands. It’s great to know that God has wise people on hand to serve us and keep us on track to fulfil what He points out to us.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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