David #5

 [DAVID] Secure in the Lord_ 

1 Samuel 25 

At one time or another, you have probably found yourself saying – or thinking, “I’ll get you for this!” or “You’ll be sorry you ever treated me that way!” or “You’ll wish you’d never been born!” When people mistreat us, we instinctively want revenge. We want to get even, to show them how it feels. 

 
[Group discussion starter] Someone once dumped a load of rubbish on a man’s private property. While looking through the rubbish, the man found the offender’s name and address on an envelope. He quickly loaded up the rubbish, drove to the person’s house, and dumped the mess on his front garden. 
Do you think the man’s actions were justified or not? 
Explain. 

 

 
In 1 Samuel 25, David is insulted by a man named Nabal. David’s response gives us both a positive and negative example of how we should respond to those who mistreat us... 
 

 
[Read 1 Samuel 25] 

 

 

Why do you think that the events in this chapter are deliberately sandwiched between two accounts where David had a chance to kill Saul? 
 
 

 
In verses 2-3, what does the author tell us about the two new characters in this drama? 
 
 

 
Why is David so offended by Nabal’s response to his request (verses 4-13, 21-22)? 
Even if David’s offense is justified, how would you evaluate his plan, in verses 13 & 34, to get even with Nabal? 
 

 
What methods do we sometimes use to “get even” with those who mistreat us? 
 
 

 
In verses 14-32, what impresses you about Abigail’s response when she finds out what has happened? 
 
 

 
How is David’s relationship with Nabal similar to his relationship with Saul? 
 
 

 
What lesson is the Lord repeatedly trying to teach David (and, by extension, us)? 
 
 

 
How would Nabal’s fate encourage David to trust God about Saul? 
 
 

 
Think of someone who has recently mistreated you.  
How can this study affect your attitude and actions toward that person?