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Gentle Rebuke, June 12
1 Samuel 25:18-35
I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid: for the Lord will
certainly make my lord a sure house; because my lord fighteth the battles
of the Lord, and evil hath not been found in thee all thy days.
1
Samuel 25:28
.
Abigail met David with respect, showing him honor and deference, and
pleaded her case eloquently and successfully. While not excusing her husband’s
insolence, she still pleaded for his life. She also revealed the fact that she was
not only a discreet woman, but a godly woman, acquainted with the works and
ways of God in David. She stated her firm faith in the fact that David was the
anointed of the Lord
Abigail presented by implication the course that David ought to pursue. He
should fight the battles of the Lord. He was not to seek revenge for personal
wrongs, even though persecuted as a traitor.... These words could have come
only from the lips of one who had partaken of the wisdom from above. The piety
of Abigail, like the fragrance of a flower, breathed out all unconsciously in face
and word and action. The Spirit of the Son of God was abiding in her soul. Her
speech, seasoned with grace, and full of kindness and peace, shed a heavenly
influence. Better impulses came to David, and he trembled as he thought what
might have been the consequences of his rash purpose....
A consecrated Christian life is ever shedding light and comfort and peace. It
is characterized by purity, tact, simplicity, and usefulness. It is controlled by that
unselfish love that sanctifies the influence. It is full of Christ, and leaves a track
of light wherever its possessor may go.
Abigail was a wise reprover and counselor. David’s passion died away under
the power of her influence and reasoning....
With a humble heart he received the rebuke.... He gave thanks and blessings
because she advised him righteously. There are many who, when they are
reproved, think it praiseworthy if they receive the rebuke without becoming
impatient; but how few take reproof with gratitude of heart and bless those who
seek to save them from pursuing an evil course
[170]
19
Ibid
.
20
Patriarchs and Prophets, 666, 667
.
175