Trials that Produce Maturity
Today’s Bible Study April 17, 2012
“Saul hunted him day after day, but God didn’t let Saul find him”(1 Samuel 23:14).
David’s Flight Path from Saul:
To Find (look for):
What was so insensitive about Nabal not wanting to share his food (1 Samuel 25:10-11)?
Do you suppose Abigail had faith (1 Samuel 25:29)?
To Mind (key point): Sheep-shearing time was a time of hospitality and festivities for shepherds. David would have been familiar with this practice, so when he asked Nabal, a rich man with many provisions, for food for his men, he is outraged at Nabal’s disregard for this common cultural practice. Nabal’s wife, Abigail, responds sensibly and intercedes successfully for her husband.
To Bind (apply to our lives): David was provided an opportunity to kill Saul today in a dark cave; yet, out of respect for his position of authority and for God, he did not take that action. We can’t always be sure circumstances that present themselves are wise to pursue. Sometimes we are presented with temptations. Not every painful circumstance is to be avoided however, as trials are often God-given circumstances designed to produce maturity in us. As we read about David’s perseverance through his trials, will you be inspired to allow your faith to carry you through yours?
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