Putting your neck on the line

1 Samuel 25.20-43

Reference: v. 33 May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed this day and from avenging myself with my own hands.

Explore: Abigail was a fairly remarkable woman. Just to be named in the Old Testament shows that she was outstanding in character. Some could claim that she was interfering in business way beyond her, however it was clear that she understood the severity of the potential ramifications caused by her husbands insults if she didn’t act. She didn’t know whether David would be gracious to her. But just like Esther she was willing to put herself on the line to save her people.

Application: We live in a very politically correct world where we tend to tip-toe around so we don’t offend or upset anyone. While I’m all for treating people equally I think we have gone a little soft in dealing with people’s misdemeanours. Abigail was certainly a person of action. She was polite and respectful in her words, and yet her actions were risky, controversial and beyond her position. However, because she willing to put her own life on the line for others, she really was given the respect that she deserved.

Prayer: Lord, often I shy away from confrontation because I don’t want to be seen as arrogant or pushy. Help me to be brave like Abigail and do my best to correct wrong-doing. Amen.

1 Samuel