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Patience vs. Anger

Bible story: David, Nabal and Abigail 1 Samuel 25

Theme Verse: Ephesians 4:26

This week we are learning about anger as it opposes patience. Anger is an interesting emotion, because it can blind us. It can take over our whole being, making us think of nothing else. We can be angry while we are sinning against others or ourselves. The hardest anger to control is when we have been wronged. When we know that we are correct, that is when it is most difficult to control our anger.

This is what happened in today's Bible story. David was angry because he had been wronged. David was traveling with 600 men in his company. He sent some men ahead to ask Nabal for a favor, feeding his men as they traveled through the area. Since David had been doing Nabal favors for a long time, saving him time and money, it was within David's rights to ask kindly for a favor in return. However, Nabal said meanly, NO! Therefore, David became angry, and decided to take revenge. David was on his way with 400 men to kill Nabal, when Abigail (Nabal's wife) was informed of the danger, and she quickly set about to save the day. She packed up a wonderful meal for all 600 men, and traveled to meet David. She bowed low, apologized for Nabal's behavior, and gave the food to him. It would seem that Abigail saved Nabal's life. The Bible shares this story showing that David was within his rights to be angry.

However, when Abigail stopped David from avenging himself, the story changes, and Abigail is seen more as protecting David than Nabal. David would have been within his rights to avenge himself, but it would not have been good. He would have been correct, but not blessed. Although it would seem that Abigail saved Nabal, in reality she saved David from his own anger. Wisdom in this situation is to be patient instead of angry. In the end, God punishes Nabal for his wrongs against David.

When we are facing the decision between anger and patience, we can ask ourselves the same question. Do we want to be correct and right, but not blessed? Or would we rather choose the best way that leads to more blessing?

Questions:

1. What is wrong with getting angry when we are wronged?

2. Have you ever been treated wrong when you were in the right? Explain.

3. Will God always avenge me?

Life Application:

Purchase a few small items to give away as gifts. Whenever you become angry, give an item to the person you are angry with. Try to stomp out your anger by giving small gifts to people, and watch your patience grow.