It was the sin of ingratitude that had caused David to become ticked off at Nabal, when he had asked him to give him some food and drink for his men in the desert, as they were in hiding from Saul. David and his band of fugitives had taken great care to protect Nabal’s sheep from roving marauders and therefore, it was a small favor David asked, which in and of itself could never have repaid the kindness rendered.
But not only did Nabal refuse, but he added insult to injury when he referred to David as a slave who had escaped from his master. That response did not sit well with David at all and in the heat of the moment he became ticked off, and he pledged to destroy not only Nabal, but all that belonged to him. Now, there are critically important lessons for us to derive from the narrative, so that when we may be tempted to blow a fuse, for any reason, we too may follow the instructions that will be given.
Four points will be deduced from David’s experience so that cooler heads might prevail, and so that the Christian may avoid escalating conflict. [1] There are thoughts and actions to avoid when a person answers the Christian rudely….. 1st Samuel 25: 10 And Nabal answered David's servants, and said, who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master.
1st Samuel 25:11 Shall I then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be?
May God add His blessing to the study of His word. “Good night” and God bless!