4 Principles when we feel Mistreated

Read 1 Samuel 25.

On the run with 600 men, David needed supplies, especially food.  In their route, they guarded and protected those of Israel who were vulnerable to attack by the Philistines.

They camped near Nabal at the time of sheep shearing.  He was a very wealthy descendant of Caleb, one of the faithful men of Joshua's day.  Yet, Nabal had a harsh and offensive demeanor.  In fact, his name means "fool".  He saw David as just another rebel, one "breaking away from his master" (v.10).

This rebuke and insult was about to turn to war, but an unnamed young man appealed to Nabal's wife for intervention.  Abigail approached David with humility, an apology, and a present of some food.  It is interesting to note how discerning and godly her appeal was.  It possessed a total spiritual perspective on the circumstance.  She also included her knowledge that David had been "appointed...prince over Israel."  David recognized that the LORD sent this woman to stop him and protect him from retaliating.

After a night of drunkenness, Abigail told her husband how she had spared his life.  Evidently, Nabal experienced a stroke and ten days later "the LORD struck Nabal, and he died." (v.38) 

David praised God for avenging the "insult" and then, out of care for the widow, sent for Abigail to be his own wife.  Being without a husband in that culture, this was a huge provision for her.

Here are four principles to remember when we feel mistreated.

1. The LORD can protect us from making foolish decisions, if we are willing to listen when He says, "Stop."

2. The LORD can use us to protect others, if we are willing to intervene when He says, "Go."

3. The LORD hears and sees evil and wrongdoing.  He will avenge these in His time when He says, "Enough."

4. The LORD will provide for those who are innocent and endeavor to do what is right when He says, "Enjoy."