These events remind us we can live on several levels.

We can return evil for good. Nabal did that when he refused to share his food with David’s men. His name means “fool,” and that is exactly what he was (Prov. 17:13).

We can return evil for evil. David planned to do that before he was stopped. It is the natural thing to do because most of the world lives that way, and our hurt feelings cry out for revenge. And yet David had just shown mercy to Saul who had treated him far worse than had Nabal! How easy it is to lose perspective in the heat of anger.

We can overcome evil with good. God used Abigail to prevent David from becoming a murderer. She reminded David of Nabal’s true character (vv. 23–25) and of David’s efforts to do God’s work (vv. 26–29). She also told him he would suffer when he remembered the incident in the future (vv. 30–31). This is good counsel to heed the next time you consider seeking revenge. Ponder Proverbs 20:22 and 24:29.

Wiersbe, Warren W. (1993-07-14). With The Word Bible Commentary: The Chapter-by-Chapter Bible Handbook (Kindle Locations 4221-4230). Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition.

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