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Abigail: Crowned in Righteousness

By: Kelly D. King

Esther often comes to mind when identifying a queen in Scripture, but I think Abigail deserves more recognition than she receives. Her story in 1 Samuel 25 shows us a woman with courage and faith whom God used in a very specific way.

The beginning of 1 Samuel 25 paints a striking contrast between Abigail and her husband. Nabal is described as “harsh and evil,” while Abigail is described as “intelligent and beautiful” (v. 3).

The first thirteen verses describe the conflict that developed between David and Nabal. Shearing sheep occurred twice a year, and David instructed his men to act as security for Nabal’s servants and animals. As a Calebite, Nabal was part of the tribe of Judah, meaning he was a kinsman to David. David gives instructions to his young men to receive appropriate payment for their services, yet Nabal refuses. The result? An angry, self-centered Nabal and a vengeful David.

We find Abigail intervening in a volatile situation and diffusing a conflict. Her initiative and independence were certainly rare for a married woman during this time and in this culture. In this case, it was downright scandalous since it entailed a covert meeting with one of her husband’s enemies. Nevertheless, she did three remarkable things in her actions: 1. she interceded on behalf of Nabal, taking the blame that rightfully was his; 2. she prophesied David’s future destiny as king; 3. she prevented David from bringing judgment on himself.

David accepted Abigail’s gift and words of wisdom, and she returned home to find a drunken Nabal. At daylight, and when Nabal was sober, she shared what she had done. Then Nabal died. Scripture is clear, “The Lord struck Nabal dead” (v. 38). In the days that followed, David realized Abigail was more than a peacemaker; she was a godly woman he wanted to marry.

There are many glimpses of Jesus in Abigail’s story. Abigail took the blame for Nabal’s sin, which reminds us of how Christ took the blame for our sin on the cross. Plus, her wise mediation of an imminent conflict is an example for all of us to be peacemakers in a culture of conflict. Abigail is a godly example of a woman devoted to God, a woman who trusted He would provide and protect her.

Read 1 Samuel 25:1-42 for Abigail’s story.