---

Dear Heavenly Father, Praise When Abigail begged David’s forgiveness for her husband’s folly, David said, “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me” (1 Sam 25:32). David perceived your hand behind Abigail’s actions, and he was grateful to you for keeping him from avenging himself. How wonderful to serve a God who does all He can to keep me from sin! I praise you today and bless your name! Today in Your Word Today you told me how David spared Saul’s life twice and how he met and married Abigail. Saul was hunting David in the wilderness of En Gedi, and Saul went into a cave to relieve himself. Little did he know that David and his men were in the back of the cave. David had the chance and the support of his men to cut off Saul’s life, but instead he chose to cut off the hem of Saul’s robe. Even that bothered his conscience, for the hem of Saul’s robe was a symbol of his kingship, and cutting it off was a kind of rebellion against Saul’s authority. David let Saul go and swore not to cut off Saul’s descendants. This teaches me that, apart from your direct command (cf. 2 Kgs 9:2–10), I should never raise my hand against those whom you have put in authority over my life. Instead, I must return good for evil and submit myself to their leadership, for when I submit to their authority, I’m also submitting to yours. Not long after this, David had another chance to take revenge on someone who had returned evil for good. Nabal, whose shepherds and flocks David had protected, rudely refused David’s request to feed his men. Nabal’s sneering attitude made David so furious that he swore to wipe out Nabal’s entire household. Abigail, realizing that her husband’s stupidity had put them all in danger, quickly interceded with David on his behalf. David blessed Abigail for her discernment and turned back from his bloody mission. Once again, this teaches me not to take matters into my own hands. It also shows me how love can cover a multitude of sins. Reflection You anointed David as king, but he refused to become king by killing Saul. This teaches me that the means I use to accomplish a goal are just as important as the goal I’m trying to accomplish. Am I careful to keep my conscience clear while I strive to achieve your will? Request Father, give me the courage and humility I need to take the offenses and insults of others and return good for evil. Help me to heap “coals of fire” on their heads (Prov 25:21–22). Thanksgiving Thank you for the example of David, who chose to submit himself to your will, rather than avenging himself on Saul. I purpose to imitate his attitude and submit myself to my authorities. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “When Times of Trouble are at Hand” — Church Hymn Book Meditation Verse: 1 Samuel 26:9.