Monday, 4/7/14
Reading the story of Abigail and David in the 1st book of Samuel, Chapter 25, I was reminded of God’s protection upon His children. In this account, we are told of the time when David sent messengers to ask provisions for the men in his unit from a nearby wealthy man who had many sheep and goats. The man’s name was Nabal and he was holding the customary celebration that was held at sheep-shearing time. David and his men had protected this man’s shepherds and had never before asked anything in return. Nabal not only sent the messengers on their way empty handed, he embarrassed and insulted them to boot. When it was reported to David, he immediately responded by arming himself and 400 of his men with their swords. He was so incensed, he vowed to kill Nabal and his entire household. Then one of the servants told Abigail, Nabal’s wife, everything that had happened, adding that he was sure David and his men were on their way to take vengeance.
Abigail quickly took action and prepared the provisions her husband had denied. She met David and his men before they reached their destination and humbly apologized and asked forgiveness for her husband’s foolish and cruel behavior. Soon after, David acknowledged that God had used her to keep him from committing the horrible crime of taking matters into his own hands. David remembered that vengeance is God’s and no one else’s. Perhaps, that is one reason David wrote: The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. (Ps. 34:7)
The last time I read this story again, I thought of the many occasions in my life, both as a Christian and non-Christian, when I contemplated, even planned, doing things that I knew God would never approve. If God had not provided the person or the means that kept me from following through, I am convinced my life would be totally destroyed today. My dear readers, assuming all of you are honest, I suspect many of you can say that God has done the same for you. Isn’t it great to know that God not only protects us from our enemies, He even protects us from ourselves?
Memory verse for the week: (Proverbs 18:10) The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
