“Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our master, and against all his household: for he is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him.”
Context:The book of 1 Samuel records the transition from the time of the judges to the establishment of a monarchy in Israel. In chapter 25, we encounter an incident involving David, who was fleeing from King Saul, and a wealthy man named Nabal.
Understanding the verse:
- “Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do”: This phrase is addressed to Abigail, Nabal’s wife, who had acted wisely and respectfully toward David’s men when they sought assistance. It suggests that Abigail should carefully consider her actions and respond wisely in light of the situation.
- “Evil is determined against our master, and against all his household”: Abigail is informing David of the impending danger that Nabal’s foolishness has brought upon himself and his entire household. It implies that harm or calamity is imminent.
- “For he is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him”: This statement characterizes Nabal as a wicked and worthless person who is unapproachable and unreasonable. It indicates that Nabal’s temperament and behavior make it difficult to reason with him or communicate effectively.
Lessons we can learn from this verse:
- The importance of wisdom and discernment:Abigail’s wise intervention prevented David from taking rash actions in his anger. It reminds us of the value of considering our options and seeking godly wisdom before responding to difficult situations.
- The consequences of foolishness:Nabal’s foolishness, arrogance, and disrespect toward David and his men led to the imminent danger faced by him and his household. This serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences and can impact not only ourselves but also those around us.
- The power of a gentle and respectful approach:Abigail’s humble and respectful demeanor when she met David played a significant role in diffusing the situation and preventing bloodshed. It highlights the importance of responding with humility and respect even in the face of conflict or provocation.
- The contrast between righteousness and wickedness:The description of Nabal as a son of Belial, meaning a wicked and worthless person, underscores the distinction between those who pursue righteousness and those who engage in wickedness. It serves as a reminder to align ourselves with godly principles and avoid the path of wickedness.
By studying this verse and applying its lessons, we can grow in our understanding of wisdom, discernment, and righteous living, ultimately seeking to live in a manner pleasing to God.
