ESOCS Devotional 3 June
TEXT: 1 SAMUEL 25:23-44
MEMORY VERSE: “And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on face, and bowed herself to the ground.” 1 Samuel 25:23 KJV
At a time when women are dreaded and seen to be responsible for the trouble of most men and family, Abigail distinguished herself and became a pace setter in both initiating and institutionalizing peace at the peak of war. Here are some of the lessons from her life.
(a) Penitence: There is no powerful tool as acknowledging the wrongs done, taking responsibility for, it and showing remorse for them instead of passing the bug. Abigail’s husband, Nabal, had acted foolishly to David’s servants in her absence. Upon informing her, she displayed high penitence that many wives will not dare; she never took side with her husband. ESOCS Devotional 3 June
(b) Solution Mindedness: In the face of danger, many persons pick quarrels and dwell on issues while more dangers are done. But for Abigail, upon her realization of what the husband did swung into action immediately to provide solution. It takes solution-minded people to avert impending calamities. Never you think problem, think solution at any level you find yourself.
Read yesterday’s ESOCS Devotional here
(c) Filled with Graceful Words: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” (Prov. 18:21). “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man”(Col. 4:6). Abigail rightly understood all these and correctly applied them. Her words were full of grace and life affecting. It is important we know that you do not pick quarrels with a man that is on a mission. Surely, “A soft answer turneth away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger” (Prov. 15:1).
(d) Spiritual Sensitivity: Abigail no doubt, as a woman combined beauty, with good understanding and high spirituality (1 Sam. 25:3). She was spiritually sensitive to speak the mind of God to the King David accurately, regarding the matter at stake. If we are spiritually sensitive each time, some of the issues we hype and create problem with will be discarded and peace pursued. Spiritual sensitivity is cure to physical rascality.
(e) Good Adviser: The advice of Abigail to King David saved the lives of the entire household of Nabal. It prevented the king from shedding blood with his hands, and availing God the opportunity to avenge for him. (1 Sam. 25:26, 38-39). Evil increases where people are ill advised. Abigail was indeed a good adviser, and her advice brought a peaceful resolution of the conflict on ground.
(f) Generosity: The request Nabal failed to grant David, the wife, Abigail generously blessed King David with them. Her presentation was awesome and irresistible.
BOTTOM LINE: There is no war that cannot be won on the altar of peace.
CHALLENGES
- At all times, be a peace initiator and strategist.
- Until peace is achieved, wherever you are do not give up.
- Connect to Jesus who is the peace Himself.
PRAYER POINT: Father, we appreciate you for the command to be peacemakers; we ask that you forgive our years of crisis and give us grace to promote peace always in Jesus name. Amen.
FURTHER READING: 1 Samuel 26:1–25; John 3:22-36; 4:1-21
