1 Samuel 25 Devotional

Stopped on the Way to Revenge

“Then David said to Abigail, “Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who sent you to meet me this day!”1 Samuel 25:32 (BSB)

Soon after sparing Saul, David nearly does what he refused to do in the cave. Nabal, a harsh man, insults David's messengers and refuses them food, even though David's men had protected his shepherds (25:10-11, 25:15-16). David straps on his sword and swears that no male in Nabal's household will live to morning (25:13, 25:22). The man who left vengeance to God is now ready to take it into his own hands.

God stops him through Abigail. She rides out with gifts, takes the blame on herself, and reminds David that the LORD will give him a lasting house, and that as king he will not want needless bloodshed on his conscience (25:24, 25:28-31). David sees God's hand in her coming and blesses the LORD who sent her (25:32). About ten days later the LORD strikes Nabal dead, and David praises God for keeping him from evil (25:38-39). God does not only protect his people from their enemies. He also protects them from themselves, often through a timely word.

To think about: Who has God used to stop you from a decision you would have regretted, and how might you listen better next time?