Character Study Of Abigail Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF ABIGAIL – WISE WOMAN WHO SAVED DAVID FROM BLOODSHED

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 25:32-33

"And David said to Abigail, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me: And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand."

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 15:1, James 1:5, Ecclesiastes 7:12, Romans 12:19, Matthew 5:9

INTRODUCTION:

Abigail was a woman of wisdom, beauty, and discernment who played a crucial role in preventing unnecessary bloodshed. She was the wife of Nabal, a wealthy but foolish man who insulted David. Recognising the danger her husband had brought upon their household, Abigail acted swiftly, humbly, and wisely to avert disaster.

Her story highlights the power of wisdom, the importance of humility, and the reward of righteousness. She teaches us that godly wisdom can defuse conflicts, and that God honours those who pursue peace. Ultimately, Abigail’s actions not only saved lives but also positioned her for divine favour.

1. ABIGAIL’S CHARACTER AND BACKGROUND

a) She was intelligent and beautiful (1 Samuel 25:3)

The Bible describes Abigail as a woman of good understanding and a beautiful countenance, signifying both inner and outer qualities.

b) She was married to a foolish man (1 Samuel 25:3)

Her husband, Nabal, was harsh, arrogant, and lacked wisdom.

c) She displayed discernment and wisdom (1 Samuel 25:18-19)

When she heard of the impending attack from David, she quickly devised a plan to bring peace.

d) She was humble and respectful (1 Samuel 25:23-24)

She bowed before David, acknowledging his future kingship and speaking peaceably.

e) Biblical Example: Like Abigail, Esther used wisdom and humility to save her people (Esther 4:16).

2. NABAL’S FOOLISHNESS AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

a) He dishonoured David’s kindness (1 Samuel 25:10-11)

David had protected Nabal’s shepherds, yet Nabal repaid him with insults.

b) He was arrogant and selfish (1 Samuel 25:17)

Even his own servants knew that he was a man who would not listen to reason.

c) His foolishness put his household in danger (1 Samuel 25:14-16)

Because of his reckless behaviour, David planned to attack him.

d) He suffered divine judgment (1 Samuel 25:38)

Ten days after Abigail’s intervention, the Lord struck Nabal dead.

e) Biblical Example: King Belshazzar also perished due to arrogance and foolishness (Daniel 5:30-31).

3. ABIGAIL’S WISE INTERVENTION

a) She took swift action (1 Samuel 25:18)

Abigail immediately gathered gifts and set out to meet David.

b) She spoke with wisdom and humility (1 Samuel 25:24-31)

She acknowledged David’s anointing and urged him not to shed innocent blood.

c) She appealed to David’s future (1 Samuel 25:28-30)

She reminded him that God had destined him to be king and should not act in anger.

d) Her words softened David’s heart (1 Samuel 25:32-33)

David blessed God for sending Abigail to prevent him from making a mistake.

e) Biblical Example: The wise woman of Abel also used wisdom to save her city (2 Samuel 20:16-22).

4. ABIGAIL’S REWARD AND DIVINE ELEVATION

a) God dealt with her enemy (1 Samuel 25:38)

Abigail did not need to fight; God struck Nabal down.

b) She was taken as David’s wife (1 Samuel 25:39-42)

After Nabal’s death, David recognised Abigail’s wisdom and married her.

c) She transitioned from danger to royal favour (1 Samuel 25:40)

She moved from a household of foolishness to the house of a future king.

d) Her wisdom impacted her destiny (Proverbs 14:1)

Because she built her house with wisdom, she was blessed.

e) Biblical Example: Ruth also transitioned from widowhood to royalty through wisdom (Ruth 3:9-11).

5. STRENGTHS OF ABIGAIL

a) She was wise and discerning (James 1:5)

Abigail had the ability to perceive situations clearly and act accordingly.

b) She was courageous (Proverbs 31:25)

She risked her life to confront David and prevent disaster.

c) She was a peacemaker (Matthew 5:9)

Instead of allowing conflict to escalate, she brought reconciliation.

d) She was patient and enduring (Galatians 6:9)

Despite being married to a difficult man, she remained faithful and wise.

e) Biblical Example: Deborah also exhibited wisdom and leadership in times of crisis (Judges 4:4-9).

6. LESSONS FROM ABIGAIL’S LIFE

a) Wisdom can prevent destruction (Proverbs 4:7)

Abigail’s wisdom saved many lives and changed her destiny.

b) Humility opens doors to favour (Proverbs 22:4)

Her respectful approach to David earned her honour.

c) God fights for the righteous (Romans 12:19)

Abigail did not need to seek revenge; God dealt with Nabal.

d) Peacemakers are blessed (Matthew 5:9)

She played the role of a mediator, and God rewarded her.

e) Biblical Example: Jesus Himself taught that wisdom and humility lead to exaltation (Luke 14:11).

CONCLUSION:

Abigail’s story is a testament to the power of wisdom, humility, and divine favour. She exemplifies how one person’s godly wisdom can prevent bloodshed, change destinies, and bring honour. Through her actions, she not only saved lives but also secured a place of blessing in history. Her life teaches us that God rewards wisdom and righteousness.