Theme: DIALOGUE
Text: “Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this man of Belial, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him: but I thine handmaid saw not the young men of my lord, whom thou didst send.” – 1 Samuel 25:25.
Comment: While David was in the wilderness, hiding from King Saul, he treated the herdsmen of Nabal kindly, as if the flock were his own. Thus, when he heard that Nabal was shearing his sheep, at which time a lot of feasting took place, David sent 10 of his servants to Nabal requesting for some victuals for their upkeep, But Nabal’s response was rude and did not show appreciation for the services David had rendered to him. (1 Samuel 25:10,11) The remarks irritated David, who instantly got his hosts ready for a showdown with Nabal. When Abigail, the good-natured wife and clear opposite of her husband heard of the matter, she made haste to placate David with kind words: “Upon me, my lord, upon me let this iniquity be: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid”. (verse 24) King Solomon says that a soft answer turns away wrath. (Proverbs 15:1) After listening to Abigail, David put back his sword into its sheath, thanked her for her initiative and wisdom. (verses 32,33) The Bible states: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof” (Proverbs 18:21). Truth is, in time of conflict, someone should seize the initiative for peace. A meeting of minds, right choice of words, serene moods are always vital tools for dialogue, peace and reconciliation. See Colossians 3:12-14.