May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed this day and from avenging myself with my own hands.
I Samuel 25:33
David sent word to Nabal, who was shearing his sheep, that he would like for Nabal to give his men food and supplies. David’s men had at one time guarded Nabal’s sheep, and now David sought help from him. However, Nabal told David’s servants that he would not give them provisions. Abigail’s prudent actions and her acknowledgment of David’s accession to the throne turned David’s heart away from retaliation. Abigail was a wise, godly woman, and David told her, “Go home in peace. I have heard your words and granted your request.” (I Samuel 25:35)
Courageous leaders are willing to listen and adjust their attitudes and plans accordingly. They have teachable hearts and are willing to listen to the counsel of others. There were other times, however, when David did not listen to the counsel around him. For example, when Abishai told David to kill Saul, David refused to touch God’s anointed one. Although courageous leaders are willing to listen to godly counsel, they always seek the Lord’s Word as the final authority.
What about you? Do you have godly counselors around you? Consider who in your life offers you godly counsel. Are you willing to listen to their counsel and then take it to the Lord in prayer? If you do not have in your life who seeks to follow God’s ways, pray and ask the Lord to send you someone who can fill that role. Pray for an approachable, teachable heart, and always remember to take all counsel to the Lord in prayer.
Heavenly Father,
I desire to be a person who listens to godly counsel. Send people into my life who are seeking You and are willing to guide me on this journey of life. Help me to always remember to turn to You in prayer, knowing that Your Holy Spirit is my ultimate Counselor and Helper.
In Jesus’ name, Amen
