Beauty and the Beast

I’m fascinated with my study of Abigail because there is so much to learn from her and the stories that surround her. In one of the commentaries I was reading it asked the question, “What might her marriage have been like?”

When I slow down and think about the bible characters and try to imagine what they were like deep down below the surface reading, it brings a whole new perspective to their stories.

The bible tells us that she was intelligent and beautiful, but her husband was surly and mean in his dealings. In biblical times marriages were arranged which meant that Abigail may not have been the one who chose her husband.

When I first read that passage my mind went to the Beauty and Beast story. Just like Belle, Abigail’s challenge was to live peaceably with her mean spirited mate while preserving her own integrity and strength of character. To do that she needed to learn discretion in her words and her actions so to achieve the best outcome.

Also like Belle, Abigail had a relationship with her staff and was approachable. They trusted her and came to her with boldness knowing that she would show wisdom in handling the situation.

I would imagine that there were times that she was lonely. Although she was married, her husband’s reputation was that no one can talk to him. (1 Samuel 25:17) Her discretion in waiting to talk to him until he was sober must have come from experience.

How many nights had she prayed that he would be sober? How many times had she hoped for him to be pleasant and approachable?

Her experiences with her husband had taught her how to be a peacemaker. As a peacemaker she was resourceful and wise in the way that she took care of situations, careful to make sure that she watched her words and didn’t bring additional troubles.

She didn’t join in with the servants and talk badly about her husband nor did she with David when she humbly took responsibility for the trouble that was caused. She showed Godly restraint and carefully spoke words of truth.

There are many situations in life that require courage. They also require showing respect and using discretion and wisdom to determine the best course of action for the good of all concerned. (Denise Renner)

She had an attitude of humility, honor and respect that gave her boldness to approach another beast, David. Her faith in God and His plan gave her the courage to face her enemy and completely change his response to the situation. Abigail believed God.

Is God calling you to be a peacemaker? Are you willing to be obedient to the Lord and speak the truth using truth and love? Are you using discretion with the words you speak?

Abigail is proof that we can live in imperfect circumstances and still maintain our integrity and strength of character.

My Prayer

Father, thank you for the opportunity to go deeper into the life of Abigail and for the lessons that I’m learning. Help me to develop Godly humility and courage. Help me to guard my words so that they honor You and can bring peace to situations that may arise. I love Your word and thank you for it. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Where does my help come from?

Psalm 119:105

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”