“The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, But a wise man is he who listens to counsel.”
(Proverbs 12:15, NASB)
Recently I found myself reading and rereading the story of Nabal and Abigail as found in 1 Samuel 25.
Nabel was a rich and prosperous man in the Old Testament. Depending on the Bible translation one uses, he is described as “brutish and mean” (MSG); “harsh and evil (NASB); “surly and mean” (NIV); “crude and mean” (NLT); “harsh and badly behaved” (ESV).
To be clear, his name ”“ Nabel ”“ literally means “fool” according to the Old Testament Hebrew Lexicon.
Contrast this with his wife, Abigail, who is described as “intelligent and good-looking” (MSG); “intelligent and beautiful” (NASB and NIV); “sensible and beautiful” (NLT); “discerning and beautiful” (ESV).
The intelligent and beautiful Abigail married the harsh, mean, and stupid Nabel.
Given the time frame of the story, this was most probably an arranged marriage. Abigail was in an unhappy marriage not of her doing or by her choice.
After David and his men had done right by Nabel, protecting his herds and herdmen, David asked for some food for his men. Nabel responded in a most insulting and ungracious manner which sparked anger and vengeance in David.
Upon hearing of David’s response, Abigail jumped into action to smooth the matter over. She herself brought food and wine, meat and grain to David and his men. Her actions diffused the situation and saved not only her husband’s life but the life of his men.
We are living in days where opinions abound. Everyone has one and is willing to share them with anyone who lends an ear. Let’s be honest … we cannot agree with everyone. Some people have wisdom and discernment, the words they share offering guidance and encouragement. Some … not so much.
Abigail’s actions brings us several insights when handling difficult people.
Won’t you join me at Woman to Woman Ministries where we will look at Abigail’s actions and learn from her wisdom.
Photo by Melanie Pongratz on Unsplash
Today I am joining …
Joanne, I am so very grateful to have come here today through a link-up. God knows just what I need and it is to place my trust ‘back’ in Him as I have been so lost these past few months due to worldly wisdom, fears, so much bearing in on me, weighing me down and steering me off track.
I am praising God for His wisdom this day.
loving you, ~ linda
Linda, I tried to leave a comment on your post today but was unable. It is not your site, it is definitely me! Anyway, I pray that you would find a church home with people who will love and encourage you. Even in the midst of dark times, may we cling all the more to God’s Word and be a light right where He has placed us.{{hugs}}
What I loved about your post was how the wife sought peace rather than confrontation. While sometimes the enemy must be confronted, it’s important to understand that not everyone who disagrees with us is our enemy. I think this is something many (Christian and non-Christian alike) has forgotten. Such a timely post ma’am. Thank you!
Thought-provoking and timely indeed.