When God Says Enough
1 Samuel 25-27
Abigail comes to David and says, ”…The Lord will surely reward you with a lasting dynasty, for you are fighting the Lord’s battles. And you have not done wrong throughout your entire life. Even when you are chased by those who seek to kill you, your life is safe in the care of the Lord your God….“ 1 Samuel 25:28-29 NLT Nice way to set up the conversation and remind David of God’s hand on his life. Then she adds, “When the Lord has done all He promised and has made you leader of Israel, don’t let this be a blemish on your record. Then your conscience won’t have to bear the staggering burden of needless bloodshed and vengeance….“ 1 Samuel 25:30-31 NLT I’m impressed with the positive way Abigail redirects David’s focus and allows him a gracious alternative to the story.
David responds, ”…Return home in peace. I have heard what you said. We will not kill your husband.” 1 Samuel 25:35 NLT
God then allows Nabal to experience a massive stroke at the news of Abigail’s kindness to David, and the paralyzing condition causes Nabal to die ten days later.
This is the first time I’ve read narrative and truly thought about the scenario. It’s said so nonchalantly in a matter of 2-3 verses, but stop and think about it. The alcohol consumption and Nabal’s lifestyle had begun weakening Nabal’s veins and arteries, setting up the perfect condition for Nabal’s body to throw a blood clot when his anger flared when Abigail came to him after the party. You see, you don’t defy a narcissist without reaping their wrath. So you can only imagine the hatred Nabal likely spewed at her after hearing she had defied his wants and wishes and had gone behind his back. But God said, “Enough!” David didn’t have to do anything.
”When David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, ‘Praise the Lord, who has avenged the insult I received from Nabal and has kept me from doing it myself. Nabal has received the punishment for his sin.…’” 1 Samuel 25:39 NLT
