Contemplative Bible Reading

1 Samuel 25:8 (New Living Translation)

…So would you be kind to us, since we have come at a time of celebration? Please share any provisions you might have on hand with us and with your friend David.

Ten of David’s men visited Nabal. David’s men had shown kindness to the shepherd of Nabal in the past. At this time, they as for kindness in return. This is part of the (hi)story of David, Nabal, and Nabal’s wife—who would become David’s wife—Abigail. Nabal was rich, crude, and mean…not a good combination.

Asking Nabal for kindness was like…well, just a waste of time.

This translation uses the word “share.” Would Nabal share? We try to teach small children to share. It appears that Nabal never learned that lesson.

Why was Nabal mean and crude? What went wrong in his life? Why was kindness not part of him?

It appears that no one showed much kindness towards Nabal. David’s reaction to Nabal was to sharpen the swords, rally the troops, and go kill him. Abigail intervened.

Ever meet a crude and mean person (with or without the rich part)? Ever return kindness in response the crude and mean? Please God, help me in my unbelief.