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The example of Abigail
1 Samuel 25:1-42
Because women were not held in high regard during much of the history covered by the Bible, there are few accounts of principle-based women. However, those we find are examples of graciousness, love, and courage. Esther, Rahab the prostitute (Joshua 2:1-21), and Abigail are excellent examples of brave women who lived by their convictions. The account of Abigail is one of my favorites. She was a godly woman filled with courage, love, and grace.
"She fell at his feet and said: "My lord, let the blame be on me alone. Please let your servant speak to you; hear what your servant has to say. May my lord pay no attention to that wicked man Nabal. He is just like his name--his name is Fool, and folly goes with him. But as for me, your servant, I did not see the men my master sent. "Now since the LORD has kept you, my master, from bloodshed and from avenging yourself with your own hands, as surely as the LORD lives and as you live, may your enemies and all who intend to harm my master be like Nabal. And let this gift, which your servant has brought to my master, be given to the men who follow you. Please forgive your servant's offense, for the LORD will certainly make a lasting dynasty for my master, because he fights the LORD's battles. Let no wrongdoing be found in you as long as you live."
(1 Samuel 25:24-28)
Nabal was a wealthy landowner in the desert of Moan. David's rogue army had hidden from Saul in this area and provided protection for Nabal from thieves. They may well have had some kind of agreement with Nabal to provide provisions in exchange for this protection. But when they came to collect on their payment, Nabal refused. "Who is this David?," he demanded insolently.
Enraged by Nabal's disrespect and greed, David planned to kill Nabal and the men of his household. Abigail sprung into action, secretly bringing provisions to David to ward off a slaughter.
Abigail did not have to fear for her life. Her concern was not for herself, but for others. She acted to protect not just her guilty husband and the innocent workers, but even David's reputation! Most impressive of all was the way she accepted full responsibility for Nabal's actions. "Put all the blame on me," she declared.
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