Q3. Nabal and Abigail

[Pastor Ralph]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? What do we learn about Abigail’s character? Nabal’s character? Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

[Commissioned]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? What do we learn about Abigail’s character? Nabal’s character? Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

In this incident with Nabal and Abigail we see David as one who made rash decisions. He sounded like a person who sees evil in anyone who rejects him. Abigail is a person who sees trouble looming ahead and find ways to defuse it. Her husband Nabal is selfish, mean and cares not for the welfare of others. This story could have been included here to teach us that there will be times when we're a part of a situation that we have to be the one with the grace to meet people where they are and lift them up. Sometimes others we're associated with could be a liability and cause us great loss.

[IvoryEagle]

What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? WHILE DAVID IS IMPULSIVE, COURAGEOUS, AND AGGRESSIVE; HE IS A REASONABLE MAN AND RESPONDS TO RATIONAL REASONINGS.

What do we learn about Abigail’s character? INSIGHTFUL, RESPONSIVE, AND HUMBLE

Nabal’s character? WHAT CHARACTER?????????????//

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? TO SHOW THE FORMATION OF DAVID'S CHARACTER.

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding? WHILE HE WAS THE MAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEARTS; HE WAS FAR FROM PERFECT.

[charisbarak]

David got angry with Nabal, but his heart was open & tender to accept Abigail's offer of forgiveness and treats, and to listen when she explained how David's actions might lead to his downfall.

She was wise, humble and a peace maker.

He was crude and selfish.

To show how David could have been tempted to do evil and to show how God can use women, as well as friends or enemies, to touch his heart.

David was human. He fell. God leads. Best to be in God's will!!

[Semeion]

From 1 Samuel 25 , we learn that David never went into traps hastily, ( v. 5) but he is human and got angrily immediately ar Nabal for not offering provisions. Abigail was humble and served David and his troops and he saw the brashness of his decision to sling a sword on Nabal.

I think this story was included to show the hearts of Abigail, David, and Nabal and that letting God handle our battles show restraint and wisdom.

[Jen]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? What do we learn about Abigail’s character? Nabal’s character? Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

Today David would be said to have an anger management problem. Did he? Well from what we read he was rash in this occasion and made a foolish vow of revenge over some food basically. I wonder if David was tired of running and feeling the stress of the chase. David's character was still developing and being refined. He was learning about himself.

Abigail was noble,wise and humble. Probably living with Nabal developed her humility. She didn't have any indecision about what to do but jumped into action. We see this later on also.

Nabal had a lot of character flaws. I don't know if there was any good side in his character.

This story has some lessons to tell us and also we learn when we read the Bible that God doesn't sweep anything under the rug. Wow. That is scary. We learn a little about David's character in this, both his "anger management" and also his repentant heart.

God Bless!

Jen

Romans 15:13

[hanks]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25)

What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

What do we learn about Abigail's character? Nabal's character?

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel?

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

In David we see a godly and righteous man, a good and gifted leader who controls and disciplines his men well, but is prone to let anger get the better of him. Before rushing out in revenge he should have consulted the Lord first. If David had succeeded in killing Nabal and his whole household he would have committed a most terrible crime and this would have had dire consequences later in his life. I see Abigail as a woman of faith, a wise and understanding person. Nabal, on the other hand, is surly and mean, an unthankful and self-centred person driven by greed. This story was perhaps included in 1 Samuel to teach us a lesson. We as believers have to be constantly on guard at all times – our pride can turn us from a godly person, like David, into one who has lost control and is seeking revenge. In 1 Peter 5:8 we read, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” - we have to be always aware of Satan’s tricks.

[Delivered]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

I learned David was a man of "GOOD MORAL QUALITIES" a man of "ETHICAL" standards, he and his men were men of "WAR", fighting to stay alive, when all they wanted was to live in "PEACE".

They could have caused great harm to the shepherds of the very rich Nabal, and could have taken all the sheep they wanted in order to eat and stay alive, but because of the "GOOD CHARACTER" of David and according to the testimony of the Nabal's shepherds (V15-16 But the men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we anything, as long as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields: They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep.) They did not, they instead helped protect them.

What do we learn about Nabal's character?

Nabal's character was the opposite of David, his character was that of a "CRUEL, STIFF-NECKED, STUBBORN" man and it was this that caused great grief in David's heart to put "PEACE" aside, to right this wrong - David's "CHARACTER" was to respond to injustice by saying "take up our swords", you see, it is a man of strong character that will stand up to a "BULLY”.

What do we learn about Abigail's character?

Abigail’s character was like David's, she was of "GOOD CHARACTER"- She was a woman of "WISDOM", a beautiful woman both inside and outside, a woman of truthfulness, piety, and faith - She wanted "PEACE" and she did all she could to make right the wrong her husband was doing as seen in her words of "WISDOM" spoken to David, "It is the LORD that has held you back from shedding this blood, for wickedness comes from the wicked as that of Nabal and not that of you, for evil is not found in you for the LORD has great plans for you.

I see these words of wisdom spoken to David were that of "PROPHECY.

The knowledge I receive is "TO WAIT ON THE LORD AND HE WILL DIRECT MY PATH".

[JanMary]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

Abigail's "soft words" turned away David's wrath. David softened his heart at her words, and gave up his plan to seek revenge against Nabal, even though he felt justified at being repaid evil for the good protection and kindness he provided for Nabal's shepherds.

What do we learn about Abigail’s character?

Abigail took responsibility for her dunce of a self centered husband's words, and stood in the gap between he and David and David's men. She was a generous woman, providing liberally in payment for the kindness David had shown the shepherds. I see her wisdom also, in the words she spoke to David, and her humility. She was bold and quick to respond to the threat of danger, and may have been fearful but didn't let that stop her from doing the right and needful thing to avert a slaughter. She was decisive and courageous.

Nabal’s character?

Nabal was a "train wreck"....the scripture calls him "rough and evil" in his doings. He was stingy and unconcerned about what was the honorable thing to do, and concerned only about himself. It seems as if he left Abigail to fend for herself, and the shepherds as well, with no protection if David had chosen to repay with revenge.

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel?

I think it was included in part because it's the beginning of the love story between David and Abigail....and her rescue when Nabal falls dead from a stroke. It also shows that though a warrior, David also had wisdom and restraint, and was willing to receive Abigail's "advice and petition"....a difficult thing for many men.

As when Jonathan came in the love of a true and loyal friend, to David to encourage and remind him of his destiny as King, the Lord used Abigail in the same way to remind David of God's promises and future destiny! she also reminded him of WHOSE David was.....the Lord's....that he was not free to run helter skelter killing over a slight, for the sake of a few meals for he and his men; that his was a high calling which needed to be heeded.

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

It's a reminder to me to remember to WHOM I belong...I am God's representative on earth and though tested and tried, I'm not free to yield to the flesh in resolving issues...no matter how justified or how angry. Vengeance is His, not mine to repay. It's also a precious reminder of the lengths the Lord will go to teach and train us in order to fulfill our destiny....to prepare us for what lies ahead. I love that the Lord shows us the "good the bad and the ugly" in our forefather's who needed a Savior, as we do!

[Guitar Jim]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

David was capable of making hot-headed decisions. After all, he's only human. We also see that he's intelligent and mature enough to realize when he's made, or about to make, a terrible mistake and he's not too proud to admit it.

What do we learn about Abigail’s character?

Abigail was an intelligent thoughtful woman who certainly didn't lack courage! After all, she took those provisions to a hostile warlord who she knew was about to slaughter her husband and every man in his employ. That took guts! She was also a persuasive speaker. She talked David out of committing mass murder when his blood was on fire for revenge.

Nabal’s character?

Nabal was an arrogant rich fool. How he got to be so wealthy if he treated people in such cavalier ways indicates that he probably inherited his wealth rather than making his own fortune. How often do we see that a self-made man is usually hard but fair . . . while his son, who is born with a job, the boss's job, never bothers to acquire any people skills at all because he doesn't think he'll ever need them. His old man's money will get him everything he'll ever need.

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel?

A couple of reasons. Firstly it shows that David was capable of making rash ungodly decisions and then when he saw the light, repented. Secondly it introduces Abagail who became David's second wife and whose offspring featured later in the narrative.

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

We are shown that behind a great man there is often a great woman. No doubt Abigail became a tempering influence on David, both now and once he became King. I believe God made these events happen to ultimately benefit David.

[Bondservantmccue]

For David to stop and even listen to a woman in that time of history, shows that

He is truly a man of God. David had a heart, that was one of his greatest attributes. The way that Abigail shows a what a truly courageous woman is under fire, even

Though her husband was a total idiot.Nabel was a greedy man that would not listen

To anyone, he was the typical know it all and it cost him his life.If he would have listen to David the Lord would have blessed him and he would have kept his life

And his wife.

[Travis63]

(1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

We learn that David just as any human being, there lies the chance to being lead by our emotions. Nabal words stung David, they were an insult to him. David's character (temperament) relating to Nabal was rash and hostile.

We learn through the encounter between Abigail and David, even though David was blind with rage, even though his character (temperament) was hostile, that through the use of wisdom and kindness it was changed. David's character (disposition, moral fiber, spirit)was receiving, he was not so blinded that he could not hear the voice of reason. His character (personality) was not soiled by evil, David was a man after God's own heart, once he knew or was made aware that he had done wrong or was in the wrong he was inclined to seek that which was right.

What do we learn about Abigail's character?

She was wise, courageous, God fearing and had a discerning spirit. She was able to satisfy both David and Nabal through the use of wisdom (25:24 / 25:36). Nabal perhaps would have responded differently if Abigal had told him what she did w/o (against) his permission in a drunken state.

Although David and Nabal were polar opposites, Abigail was not only wise, but she was also courageous for she did not definitively know how either man would react towards her actions.

Her character also informs us perhaps she was a faithful woman, she believed in God prophesied unto David. Her prophetic truth helped David realize he would not have shed blood in a way that was within the Law, nor acceptable unto God.

Nabal's character?

Nabal's character according to his was wife was comparable to Belial (25:25), verse 3 tells us he was churlish (rude, impolite, ill-natured, bad-mannered) and evil. His nature in my opinion, here was disrespectful. During this time period it was proper to show hospitality, especially to your own people.

Nabal's character was the opposite of his wife in several perspectives: Nabal's opinion of David influenced the facet of his character we see in verses 10-11.

David known throughout Israel (1 Samuel 18:5-7). Nabal says this as a direct insult to David, his labeling David "Jesse's son," demeaned David as though he was beneath Nabal's dignity or person.. He could have formed his opinion because he himself was well off, he could have formed his opinion because David was no longer within the prestige of the royal court, he could have form this opinion as he perceived David as being rebellious, he could have formed his opinion from many sources. However what is certain is that he did not esteem David or anything David had done.

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel?

Not sure, all things were given for an ensample unto us. We can see some things that we should do and that we should not. We should not follow the example of Nabal, his thoughts, and his actions aligned with Belial. We can gleam from the character and behavior that Abigail displayed. We can learn from David that it is good to adhere to good counsel, especially when it aligns with the Will of God.

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

God is sovereign, he uses people, if we are sensitive to His leading as he uses people that which they prophesy will align with His Word and or His character. Also if we allow ourselves to be lead by our emotions there lies a great chance our thoughts and our actions will not align with God's. Anointed people can be provoked to sin, but they do not have to. Just as God provide a way of escape from temptation, He also provides a way of escape that protects us from reverting back to our sinful nature. He talked, plead with Cain to sin not, Cain however did not adhere to His counsel, His Word.

We may not always receive the reward we desire because we invested our time, gifts and talents. The recognition and gratitude may not align with what we may desire. Having said that should we expect a reward or special recognition for doing something? If the act is a benevolent acts is it benevolent if we want something in return? I believe if we desire something in return, it should be addressed prior to commencement.

David assumed that he deserved whatever he asked of Nabal in return for his kindness to him. Assume can be a not so good word, we should not believe that everyone's thoughts will align with ours.

There will be times when we as Christian provide a gracious act, the person we are serving my not value or appreciate what we've done, or what we may be doing.

When treated unfair, unappreciated, disrespected, revile against we are not to seek vengeance, God is our Vindicator. We may deem ourselves as victim of injustice or un-appreciation.

Each of us has been treated this way by someone at sometime, and we like David have wanted to seek revenge for the injustice, a pound of flesh for the way we were treated.

[Rhndwsh]

His character was that of an insulted angry man reasons:

1. David was ready to fight, because Nabal's had provoked him. He isn't responding the way the LORD

would have him respond to an insult, or even to an attack.

David doesn't show Nabal's the same kindness and long suffering that he showed to Saul.

He was angry enough to kill, but Abigail calmed him down

2. Abigail a woman of good understanding, she knew that the time was of the essence, and something had

to be done quickly.

Abigail guildes David to look beyond immediate aggravating circumstances to the bigger promise of God.

3. Character is surly and mean it can't be that Nabal did not know who David was, because David was famous all throughout Israel. Nabal say this as a direct insult to David knowing who he is, but refusing to recognize him.

Nabal deepens his insult of David, saying that David is simply a rebellious servant.

Nabal shows what un un generous man he is.

He looks at everything as his, instead of the LORD.

4. Jesus may have had Nabal in mind when he taught the Parable of the Rich Fool(Luke 12:15-21)

That parable describes a man who dies with everything-and nothing.

5. David did not need to avenge himself with his own hand, God was more than able to do it.

We would need to seek forgiveness of our sins less often if we would seek the LORD more diligently to be kept from sin to begin with

[Thanking Joan]

David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail.

David is a man of faith,a bold leader and good and a humble person. Despite all the good qualities he possessed,everyone also has certain weaknesses which can be seen in the face of a situation. Here David shows his anger when insulted and humiliated by Nabal and his anger provokes him to tell his people to take thier swords and march towards Nabal to kill him. He does not take time to think but angry impatient and impulsive and does not even think what consequences it follows. Acting according to his mind without thinking or even praying to God.

Abigail is a woman of faith,wisdom and good undertanding. As her servants tell her the news that her husband Nabal is in danger she takes actions immediately and takes a wise action by going to David and advising about what he is about to do. She is a peacemaker of the family,stands by her husband though cruel and is willing to take the trouble and save her husband. She is wise and possesses maturity to speak and handle the situation. Her words do have a power on David and he is softened and humbled and realises what mistake he was going to commit.Abigails soft words and humility changed

Nabal is a cruel and a selfish man and has no kindness for people.

This story is included in 1 Samuel to know more about Davids nature and to know about Abigail

This incident has added surely lot of understading to me.

Davids nature shows how though we could be having faith and trust in God ,often when insulted or hurt we take matter in our hands and will have to end up facing bad results. We need to trust and run to God at all times.He will see us through.

Abigails nature shows how a wise godly woman can prevent disasters.

God helps us and protects us even when he do not go to Him . He sent Abigail to David as his counselor when he was about to harm Nabal. When we are faithful to God,he will cause his angels around us and direct our paths.

When Davis sought the advise of Abigail,God took it up and struck Nabal. When we taking counsel of the godly and be patient and humble God will see us through and deal with our offenders

[Jwalane Mofokeng]

<p>(1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?</p>

<p>Ephe 6: 8 Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. Even though it was an insult but it was not for him to revenge. In your anger do not sin</p>

<p> </p>

<p>What do we learn about Abigail’s character?</p>

<p>Abigail was a woman who put her trust in God and to do anything to protect her family, no matter how bad the situation is.</p>

<p> </p>

<p>Nabal’s character?</p>

<p>Selfish and too proud</p>

<p> </p>

<p>Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel?</p>

<p>If Nabal could have repentent it could have been continued.</p>

<p> </p>

<p>What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?</p>

<p>Nabal´s arrogance cause him his death. it was only if he can ask for the forgiveness for him to be free <span style="color:#001320;font-family:Arial;font-size:10pt;background-color:#f9fdff;">And so it was the case with King Uzziah for we read<em>,</em><strong> “But </strong>when he was strong, he grew proud, to his destruction</span>.<span style="background-color:#f9fdff;color:#001320;font-family:Arial;font-size:10pt;">King Uzziah was a leper to the day of his death, and being a leper lived in a separate house, for he was excluded from the house of the LORD</span> WE MUST LEARN TO HUMBLE OURSELF BEFORE THE LORD</p>

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</h3>

[parkerslope]

What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

Abigail's appeal to David, makes him listen to reason not a wounded his wounded soul. The term "bloodguilt" was an important part of David's makeup, and he want to do what was right before God.

What do we learn about Abigail's character?

Abigail wanted to prevent the killing of her household. She also did not want David to go through with it, so the he could have a clear conscience. In bribing David, she was doing the right thing.

Nabal's character?

Nabal's character was self righteous and everything centered on him and what gave him pleasure.

Why do you think this story is included in 1 Samuel?

It shows how David turned from being a possible murder to having a clear conscience. It also shows that Abigail in being persuasive, shows her character to become one of David's wives.

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

Do not be quick to be angry and acting on it. We need to really seek what God wants us to do in each situation that we are in and trust Him.

[Raph]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25)

What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

In this incident with Nabal and Abigail we learn about interchanging character of David. He can become angry out of control but again he is able to realise and accept his mistakes and praise the Lord.

What do we learn about Abigail's character?

About Abigail's character, we learn that, she is wise and I think strong woman who can make decisions. By her wisdom and decision she managed to save the life of her husband and his people.

Nabal's character?

About Nabal's chanracter we learn that, he is lacking wisdom; he is full of pride. There was no reason at all for him to refuse to assist David with food. Instead, he insulted David while knowing how brave David is.

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel?

I think the story was included to show how useful wise women can be and also to show the human nature in David;that despite being a man of God, he was ready to kill just by being insulted.

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

The important knoweldge it adds to our understanding is the capability of women.

[Inez45]

What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? David was emotionally upset and very quick to call judgment and punishment on Nabal. He was going to shed his blood (kill him) without consulting God because he felt he was justified. However, he showed compassion because of Abigail and spared their lives. What do we learn about Abigail's character? Abigail was wise and beautiful wife who saw fit to intervene to save her husband and her family lives. She probably didn’t chose her husband their marriage was most likely prearranged. Nabal's character? The bible stated that Nabal was a churlish and evil man in his doing, which mean he was harsh and unkind. Nabal’s had many sheep that he probably worked hard to obtain, however, he was very mean and did not show any gratitude when David protected his animals from being taken or killed by the enemies. He also talked bad about David. Nabal acted foolishly, it almost cost his entire family and servant men lives. It eventually cost him his life. Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding? I believed from the natural aspect the bible wanted to show us some of the resources that David had/ or obtained during the time he and his men were moving from place to place. On the spiritual aspect I think that there several things that it shows us, we are to be faithful and wise, and good stewardmen. (Luke 12:42) Also David was going to take revenge into his own hand and kill (shed blood), and we should allow God to vindicate us. Vengeance belongs to the Lord (Deut. 32:35). When someone does evil against me or my family I need to not get upset and or hold a grudge. I need not to act on it in negative way but go to God and I ask forgiveness for myself and for that person and God will work it out for my good.

[EYJackson]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? What do we learn about Abigail’s character? Nabal’s character? Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

I learned that, of course, as annointed and appointed as he was, David was still wholly human. While that means that Nabal's response aggravated David almost to the point of murder, he also had a soft spot for a woman who could ask for mercy and forgiveness, even though she was not the one who committed the offense. That she could cook for an army, too, could have only been a good thing. Abigail was penitent, but not weak, a woman of action and one who knew the requirements of one in her position, living in David's time. She was protective of her home, family, and property. She knew how to smooth out the rough edges in interactions between Nabal and others, and she knew how to use her belief in God's blessings upon those who obeyed and trusted Him. Above all, she did not fear to show her faith concerning God's anointing of David, using that to remind him that although Nabal was a fool, killing him would be murder and not self-defense.

Nabal was living proof of the adage that tells us: that "God watches over babies and fools" (of which, I am one or both of those, on any given day). He insulted those who had only been kind to him, refused to share with those who had protected him, and then, got drunk.

I think this story was included in 1 Samuel because it illustrates a turning point in David's life. One moment, he is stopping himself from killing Saul in cold blood, and then in the next moment, he is about to murder Nabal, just because of Nabal's insult. It serves as a foreshadow of David's turn from God's Way. It serves as a guidepost, so that we may know how slippery the slope can easily become when we start negotiating ways to make our desires equate with God's Way, rather than making God's Way our only desire.

[Gerbrand van Schalkwyk]

What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

Although David lived close to God, he was still human, and sometimes his own will still came to the front instead of seeking God's will in everything he did. We are all like that, sometimes we act in the heat of the moment and dont ask God for His guidance 1st. We also see David atmitting his faults and gratitude when he was corrected. He was not to proud to humble himself and let go of his own plans. When he realized his plans were wrong he rejoiced that he was corrected and changed his tune completely. We must also change easily when we realize we are on the wrong path.

What do we learn about Abigail's character?

She was a woman of action, with wisdom and with respect. She did what was best for her family, not what was always best for her. We she that she told her husband when she did something against his will. Her husband was a hard man, and could have reacted very badly towards her, yet she still told him. Honesty in a mariage is extreamly important, even if it is news the other one doesnt want to hear.

We also see that in this case she opposed her husband, yet she didn't confront him. The Bible tells us regularly that women mustn submit to their husbands, but like with all authority, we must 1st submit to God. She stays humble to her husband, although she acts against his will. She was a very wize woman indeed.

Nabal's character?

We dont read anything good about him. His reaction after his wife told him what she did could have been from shock when he realized he was wrong, or from anger when he heard she opposed him. We dont know. We only know he had no gratefullness in him, no compassion and no respect for God's anointed man. He show disrespect instead of gratitude to David

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel?

It shows that if we make mistakes like Nabal did, it can influence many others around us, many could have died because of his wrong actions. In the same way his wife's correct actions saved many, we must do what is best to our comunity, not be sekfish all the time.

It shows David was still human who made mistakes, it shows where his 2nd wife came from, it shows that we must hand over judgement to God and search God's will before we act. It shows that we must be willing to be corrected and be gratefull for being corrected as well. This story shows us many Biblical principles, i cant see why it should not be included.

What important knowledge does it add to our understanding? As discussed above

[Willard]

David recognizes when he is not in line with God's will, and he acts to align himself by doing what is right. Abigail also behaved nobly by protecting her husband and people. Nabal made a judgment and acted without knowing David's true character. In this story, David shows he is only human and makes mistakes, but he guickly reverses that behavior by doing the right thing. David is a good role model for us to follow.

[Lion of Grace]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? What do we learn about Abigail’s character? Nabal’s character? Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

I learned that David's character wasn't perfect. That he, as a human was prone to quick judgments and emotional decisions as well as pride and indignation. What I also learned though, was that he was a listener. His initial reaction was to move forward into a devastating blunder but when confronted with wisdom, he was willing to hear it and think his own reaction over more clearly. He was humbled and humble.

Abigail is known for her wisdom. Her character is pristine. She's in a difficult marriage with a fool for a husband. She and her family are threatened because of his foolish actions. She is strong and courageous. She is quick to think on her feet and not only devises a plan to give David all he had asked for, she humbled herself at his feet and "reasoned" with him. What an intelligent woman! She had all points covered. She appealed to David's pride by giving him the provisions he asked for. She appealed to his compassion by throwing herself at his mercy, she appealed to his mind and his thought processes and she appealed to his spiritual conscience and she did it all cool as a cucumber!

Nabal to me is one of the biggest fools in history. He had no compassion. He was selfish, conceited and biased. To me, he seemed like a bully who knew the "little" guy didn't have any backing so he could swagger and control all he wanted and he did just that. He didn't think of his family or their safety and he was just extremely prideful and arrogant in all he did. He sounds to me like the kind of guy who's brave to pick on the weak. If David had become King the next day and Nabal hadn't died, I bet he would have been sucking up to David then! The word "weasel" comes to mind when thinking of Nabal.

I think this story was included as a life lesson. Quite a few of them!

Some of these lessons for us today are:

Don't let emotion rule decisions. Remain in your own personal christian integrity and live by that standard. Don't be foolish, selfish and prideful. Handle situations with wisdom in calmness and thought out strategy based on the word of God. Keep in mind the guy on the bottom today may be at the top tomorrow. Treat each person no matter what station in life with wisdom and dignity, being kind and helpful. Listen to others, don't be afraid to be humble, reverse decisions made that were wrong and make it right. Live by God's principles. Don't jump on bandwagons...people are fickle and come and go and are raised up and brought down by the will of God. Don't bank on "people." And lastly, don't think God isn't watching situations on Earth. Make sure our actions are pleasing to Him so as to reap a reward and blessing and not His wrath.

[haar]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David's character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? What do we learn about Abigail's character? Nabal's character? Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

David was a righteous man who did not harm Nabal by stealing his flock. He was humble to ask for help instead of using force. But Nabal was very inconsiderate and stingy.

Abigail was a beautiful and intelligent woman. She was also diplomatic, a character that prevented David from attacking her family.

The lesson in this story that made it to be part of the Bible was so that we will learn not to be like Nabal- a stingy and unreasonable character. It was also to learn not to rush to make a vow. A positive aspect of David's character that was included for us to learn is the need to thank God for preventing us from falling into sin.

[jonesjp]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail? What do we learn about Abigail’s character? Nabal’s character? Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

David reacted fleshly as some of us would today. Not thinking of the consequences but reacting out of our feelings. Nabal was a mean and selfish man, where as Abigail is a wise woman who react by looking at things ahead and knowing how to weight the outcome. This story is to teach us that even as we stand righteous before God the flesh is in constant battle with the spirit. So we need to remain focus and be alert and not move by our feelings but by the direction of God.

[Highohfaith]

Q3. (1 Samuel 25) What do we learn about David’s character in this incident with Nabal and Abigail?

In this incident we learn that David is human, with a sinful nature. He has moments of weakness. His anger flares in this case, he is quick to judge Nabal. He is dependent upon Nabel(not God)to keep his troops from hunger. He needs provision, when Nabal refuses he become inflamed with judgement, anger, and revenge. We also learn, he is devoted to doing God's will, and after his needs are met ,his anger subsides, he no longer wants revenge.He is a reasonable,Godly, man.

What do we learn about Abigail’s character?

Abigail was a person who wanted to save her husband and children, she was a devoted mother and wife. She knew David's troops would want to kill Nabal and his decedents , which were probably her male children. I'm not sure she went out to David from her heart, but more as a way to protect her family by offering David a bribe of sorts. She is devoted, resourceful, strong and independent. We also see most importantly that she is a woman of God, she speaks to Davids spiritual side in hopes David will be empowered to listen to the will of God.

Nabal’s character?

Nabal was selfish, he had no respect for God. Certainly not for David, he is thankless and remembers not the times David has spared him, Nabal was mean spirited and later, as we see, God dishes out his own judgement on Nabel.

Why do you think this story was included in 1 Samuel? What important knowledge does it add to our understanding?

I think it gives us a view into the character of each of these people and shows how God gets justice which is not up to man. it also shows us that the will of God is stronger than any emotional, inappropriate response we may have in ANY situation. God's voice is the only voice we should listen to., God protects those whom he loves. It is all about the will of God and the people who love and OBEY him and God's love for his children. This story speaks volumes about faith and obedience to God.