I bet Abigail would’ve been an excellent Spades Partner.
She had a “10 hand”—her family was rich! She counted her books—and knew exactly what she had (Aces, Kings, Queens and a Joker). And she played her hand quickly.
Abigail was A Woman of Godly Influence (AWOGI). On the other hand, her husband Nabel (who's name means "fool"), acted the part when he insulted David and denied his request for provisions. David was so angry he promised to kill Nabel and every male in his household.
When Abigail heard, she didn't hesitate. She gathered provisions in abundance, met David in route, humbled herself before him, took the blame for Nabel’s folly, and begged pardon.
1 Samuel 25:35 records David’s response, “So, David received from her hand what she had brought him, and said to her, ‘Go up in peace to your house. See, I have heeded your voice and respected your person.’”
No doubt, Abigail spent time with God and followed His direction—there's no other way she could've gained such insight to handle this situation so well. Her actions demonstrated good understanding and great wisdom. Her heartfelt and sincere words to David were filled with honor to God our Father and adoration for David, the up and coming king.
While reading the story (in 1 Samuel 25) I got the impression that it wasn't the first time Abigail had been put in such a precarious position by her husband. Surely, she’d learned to be prepared for anything. She didn’t panic. She didn’t complain. She didn’t pout. She didn’t worry. She moved quickly.
Her efforts were rewarded. Her words of encouragement were appreciated. Her quick actions saved lives. Her voice was heeded and her person was respected.
I’ve heard people say, “It’s not what you say—it’s how you say it. It’s not what you do—it’s how you do it”. Those statements definitely apply to Abigail, AWOGI.
I'd love to be Abigail's spades partner. I need pointers on how to manage my hand better.
Her Life is definitely My Example.