Even when we make bad choices. Even when others threaten, chase, or harm us. Even when circumstances suggest otherwise, we are held securely. Within that security, we can experience eternal peace. Safe in the care of the Lord our God. Secure in His treasure pouch. Just like David. 

Abigail, the quick-acting peacemaker, spoke powerful words of grace and truth to David when he was moments away from wiping out all of Nabal’s men. She calmed his rage over being wrongfully treated by her wicked husband by bringing the gifts of food and a calm demeanor. I imagine this scene like one in my kitchen, when I pour a cupful of cold water into a pot of boiling Chinese dumplings. 

Calm. Peace. Stillness. 

David’s hardened heart was instantly transformed through Abigail’s words and actions. She voiced her confidence that David would become the next king, and she was concerned about the consequences of his rash actions. She didn’t want him to have a blemish on his record, and she hoped his conscience wouldn’t “have to bear the staggering burden of needless bloodshed and vengeance” (1 Samuel 25:31)

David’s anger took a back seat to gratitude for Abigail’s wisdom. Her timely intervention was needed and welcomed, as she caused him to take a second look at himself and his situation. He belonged to God. And vengeance belonged to Him, too.

Just one chapter earlier, David had passed on a chance to kill his enemy Saul within the darkness of a cave. David’s “conscience began bothering him because he had cut Saul’s robe. He said to his men, ‘The Lord forbid that I should do this to my lord the king. I shouldn’t attack the Lord’s anointed one, for the Lord himself has chosen him.’ So David restrained his men and did not let them kill Saul.” (Samuel 24:5-7)

A peace–that surprised all who were present–not to kill. Followed by an anger–that also surprised those present–ready to kill. All within the same man. But whether the restraint came from conviction within or through the wisdom of another, David was held securely. He kept returning to His God for peace, protection, and provision.