Don't be a Fool

Please pay no attention, my lord, to that wicked man Nabal. He is just like his name—his name means Fool, and folly goes with him. And as for me, your servant, I did not see the men my lord sent. 1 Samuel 25:25 (NIV)

Abigail, who knows that her husband, Nabal, and his servants are doomed to die, goes to David with a bountiful feast and pleads for mercy. David, who had provided protection for Nabal's shepherds, was insulted by Nabal when he had sent his servants to ask for whatever they could spare. David's initial reaction to Nabal's insult is anger, but Abigail's humble approach softens his heart. Her humility not only saves her household but also earns David's respect.

Abigail is an example how we should handle conflict in our lives. James 4:10 says, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." To follow Abigail's example, we must recognize our limitations and rely on God's guidance and intervention in our lives. We must avoid the temptation to control our own destiny and instead trust in God's plan. We also need to acknowledge our need for God's grace and allow Him to take control of our lives. Most of all, we need to engage in earnest prayer and seek God's presence, which opens the door to His blessings and support.

When you find yourself in conflict, choose to be like Abigail and approach the situation with humility. Go to God first and pray about the situation. Ask Him to lead you and guide your words and actions. When you do so, you avoid snap judgments, listen to other perspectives and focus on learning and collaboration rather than being right. Like Abigail, you foster trust and create better relationships. So, the next time you have conflict, don't be a fool, but choose to be like Abigail and be a wise servant of the Lord.