The story of Nabal, Abigail’s husband, is a remarkable one filled with important life lessons. Nabal was a wealthy man from Maon whose possessions were in Carmel. Despite his great riches, he was described as a harsh and foolish man (1 Samuel 25:3). His encounter with David highlights key principles that every believer should learn from.
Although David and his men had protected Nabal’s shepherds in the wilderness, ensuring that no harm came to them, Nabal repaid this kindness with arrogance and insult when David sought assistance. His story teaches us about generosity, humility, and the dangers of pride.
Here are five key lessons from Nabal’s life.
1. You Have Been Blessed to Bless Others
One prominent lesson from Nabal’s story is that our blessings are not just for us, they are meant to be a channel of blessing to others.
David and his men, who had been on the run from King Saul, protected Nabal’s flocks without demanding anything in return. Yet, when David humbly requested provisions, Nabal arrogantly refused and dismissed him.
Nabal’s response showed that he saw no obligation to help someone he did not know. However, as believers, we are called to be a blessing to others, whether they are friends, relatives, neighbors, or even strangers. God’s blessings upon us are not for selfish use but to extend His goodness to others.
"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act." — Proverbs 3:27 (NIV)
2. What Have You Received That God Has Not Given?
All that we possess; wealth, health, skills, or influence, ultimately comes from God. Yet, Nabal took ownership of his possessions with pride, failing to acknowledge God as the source of his success.
When David’s men asked for provisions, Nabal replied:
"Shall I take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be?" — 1 Samuel 25:11 (KJV)
His excessive use of “my” reveals his self-centered nature. He failed to realize that his wealth was not truly his own but given by God.
In contrast, the Bible reminds us:
“A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.” — John 3:27 (KJV)
Like Nabal, some people believe they achieved their success solely through their efforts. However, while hard work is essential, it is ultimately God who grants increase (1 Corinthians 3:6). As Christians, we must always acknowledge and honor God as the source of our blessings.
3. Irrespective of Your Status, Be Approachable and Teachable
One of Nabal’s greatest flaws was his unapproachable and arrogant nature. His own servants described him as someone who could not be reasoned with:
“He is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him.” — 1 Samuel 25:17 (KJV)
Even his wife, Abigail, acted without informing him because she knew he wouldn’t listen.
By contrast, we see a different example in Naaman, the Syrian army commander (2 Kings 5). Though powerful, he was open to counsel. It was his maidservant who directed him to Prophet Elisha, and when he hesitated to follow Elisha’s instructions, his servants encouraged him to obey and he was healed.
If Naaman had been as unapproachable as Nabal, he would have remained in his condition. This teaches us that regardless of our status, we should cultivate a teachable spirit, be open to advice, and allow people around us to speak wisdom into our lives.
4. Don’t Just Be Rich in Possessions, Be Rich in Character Too
Nabal’s wealth was impressive, but his character was his downfall.
“And there was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel; and the man was very great...” — 1 Samuel 25:2 (KJV)
Despite his material wealth, Nabal was poor in kindness, humility, and wisdom. He had possessions in Carmel, but he lacked the virtues that truly define a great person.
Jesus warns us about this type of imbalance:
“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” — Mark 8:36 (KJV)
As Christians, our wealth should not only be measured in money, fame, or influence but also in virtues such as love, patience, humility, and godliness. We should strive to be known for good character, not just material success.
5. Don’t Allow Past Hurts or Bad Experiences Define You
Nabal’s response to David’s request suggests that he viewed him as an unworthy rebel:
"Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master." — 1 Samuel 25:10 (KJV)
Perhaps Nabal had been betrayed by former servants, which led him to assume David was just another runaway troublemaker. However, his judgment was based on assumptions rather than truth.
This teaches us an important lesson: never let past hurts, negative experiences, or public opinion shape our perception of people. Just because someone wronged us in the past does not mean everyone will.
As believers, we must extend grace and avoid forming judgments based on hearsay or painful past experiences. Instead, we should seek discernment from God.
“Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.” — John 7:24 (KJV)
Final Thoughts
The life of Nabal serves as a warning about pride, greed, and the failure to acknowledge God as the source of our blessings. Despite his great wealth, his arrogance and lack of wisdom led to his downfall. On the other hand, we can learn from positive examples like Nabal's wife, Abigail - who was wise and discerning - and Naaman, who was open to correction.
As we reflect on Nabal’s story, let’s strive to be generous, humble, and rich in both possessions and godly character. Above all, let’s remember that all we have comes from God, and we are stewards of His blessings.
What lessons have you learnt rom your Bible Study of the life of Nabal? Do you think there are other lessons we missed out? Kindly share your thoughts at the comment section.
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