1 00:00:00,480 --> 00:00:04,420 Speaker 1: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children 2 00:00:04,660 --> 00:00:12,760 Speaker 1: of God. Matthew 5.9 Heavenly Father, teach us the path 3 00:00:13,240 --> 00:00:18,489 Speaker 1: of peace. Empower us to change every space we enter, 4 00:00:19,329 --> 00:00:25,330 Speaker 1: creating harmony and unity among those around us. Teach us 5 00:00:25,390 --> 00:00:33,900 Speaker 1: to be the architects of peace. actively constructing bridges, not barriers, healing, 6 00:00:34,640 --> 00:00:38,900 Speaker 1: not hurting. Let us be known for our ability to 7 00:00:39,040 --> 00:00:45,140 Speaker 1: unite people, standing firm for justice and truth, yet never 8 00:00:45,200 --> 00:00:49,300 Speaker 1: allowing our convictions to give way to hostility or hatred. 9 00:00:50,970 --> 00:00:55,790 Speaker 1: Grant us the wisdom to navigate conflict with grace and courage. 10 00:00:57,180 --> 00:01:02,480 Speaker 1: always seeking the path that leads to reconciliation. Help us 11 00:01:02,520 --> 00:01:08,350 Speaker 1: to mirror your love and patience in our interactions, displaying 12 00:01:08,450 --> 00:01:14,230 Speaker 1: the gentle strength that underpins true peacemaking. Lord, as we 13 00:01:14,290 --> 00:01:19,270 Speaker 1: strive to live in Christ's example, let our lives reflect 14 00:01:19,310 --> 00:01:23,790 Speaker 1: a deep commitment to peace, not just in our words, 15 00:01:24,770 --> 00:01:31,280 Speaker 1: but through our every action, May we truly be your peacemakers, 16 00:01:32,910 --> 00:01:36,430 Speaker 1: bearing the title of your children with honor. 17 00:01:37,770 --> 00:01:38,089 Speaker 2: Amen. 18 00:01:40,290 --> 00:01:44,300 Speaker 1: Thank you for praying with me today. Today's episode of 19 00:01:44,319 --> 00:01:49,120 Speaker 1: the Jesus Podcast is for those who long to be peacemakers. 20 00:01:50,800 --> 00:01:54,400 Speaker 1: While others fight to the top, we march to a 21 00:01:54,500 --> 00:01:59,660 Speaker 1: different drum. If these stories have inspired you, we'd love 22 00:01:59,700 --> 00:02:03,460 Speaker 1: it if you'd follow us and left a review. Thanks 23 00:02:03,480 --> 00:02:09,410 Speaker 1: for listening. The mount was alive with truth, pouring forth 24 00:02:09,450 --> 00:02:14,310 Speaker 1: from Jesus' lips like a fresh spring. With a joyful shout, 25 00:02:14,770 --> 00:02:18,410 Speaker 1: Jesus heralded a new way to live in light of 26 00:02:18,550 --> 00:02:23,040 Speaker 1: God's kingdom. He redefined what it meant to be blessed 27 00:02:23,540 --> 00:02:25,360 Speaker 1: and first in God's kingdom. 28 00:02:25,820 --> 00:02:29,220 Speaker 3: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the 29 00:02:29,260 --> 00:02:33,220 Speaker 3: kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they 30 00:02:33,300 --> 00:02:37,560 Speaker 3: shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will 31 00:02:37,620 --> 00:02:42,250 Speaker 3: inherit the earth. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst 32 00:02:42,290 --> 00:02:48,030 Speaker 3: for righteousness, for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, 33 00:02:48,669 --> 00:02:53,030 Speaker 3: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, 34 00:02:53,570 --> 00:02:55,030 Speaker 3: for they shall see. 35 00:02:55,889 --> 00:03:01,180 Speaker 1: God. Jesus' words packed a punch to people's egos, but 36 00:03:01,290 --> 00:03:06,179 Speaker 1: also inspired them to rise up and reach their full potential. 37 00:03:07,960 --> 00:03:10,580 Speaker 1: With another bold declaration, Jesus shouted. 38 00:03:10,980 --> 00:03:14,760 Speaker 3: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children 39 00:03:14,800 --> 00:03:15,419 Speaker 3: of God. 40 00:03:18,280 --> 00:03:22,090 Speaker 4: Peacemakers are not people pleasers. They march to the drum 41 00:03:22,130 --> 00:03:25,750 Speaker 4: of Christ's heartbeat and encourage others to come alongside them. 42 00:03:27,650 --> 00:03:31,310 Speaker 4: Welcome to the Jesus Podcast, a year of stories showcasing 43 00:03:31,350 --> 00:03:34,669 Speaker 4: the depth of Christ's love through storytelling and the truth 44 00:03:34,710 --> 00:03:39,150 Speaker 4: of God's Word through honest reflection. I'm Ethan, one of 45 00:03:39,170 --> 00:03:43,810 Speaker 4: your hosts from Pray.com. Today, we continue our journey through 46 00:03:43,830 --> 00:03:48,160 Speaker 4: the Beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Our focus 47 00:03:48,220 --> 00:03:52,060 Speaker 4: is on Matthew 5, verse 9, which states, Blessed are 48 00:03:52,080 --> 00:03:54,840 Speaker 4: the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 49 00:03:56,260 --> 00:03:59,190 Speaker 4: we will explore the meaning of being a peacemaker, how 50 00:03:59,250 --> 00:04:02,410 Speaker 4: this virtue is exemplified in the story of David and 51 00:04:02,500 --> 00:04:08,430 Speaker 4: Abigail in 1 Samuel 25, verses 18-35, and how we 52 00:04:08,470 --> 00:04:10,990 Speaker 4: can embody these values in our daily lives. 53 00:04:13,370 --> 00:04:16,970 Speaker 1: Cutting through the narrow road from Paran to Carmel, a 54 00:04:17,010 --> 00:04:19,650 Speaker 1: group of young men herded their sheep back to their 55 00:04:19,690 --> 00:04:24,250 Speaker 1: master's property. The road cut through some trees on the 56 00:04:24,350 --> 00:04:28,590 Speaker 1: outskirts of the wilderness. providing shade for them and their flock. 57 00:04:30,270 --> 00:04:34,660 Speaker 1: It was a warm spring afternoon. The birds chirped and 58 00:04:34,760 --> 00:04:38,640 Speaker 1: flew from branch to branch, singing sweet melodies to the 59 00:04:38,700 --> 00:04:44,039 Speaker 1: travelers down below. However, their songs were not a comfort 60 00:04:44,080 --> 00:04:48,370 Speaker 1: to the young men. They knew that the bending road 61 00:04:48,450 --> 00:04:53,430 Speaker 1: beside the forest was filled with bandits and raiders from 62 00:04:53,470 --> 00:04:58,530 Speaker 1: the western tribes of Philistia. The young shepherds held their 63 00:04:58,610 --> 00:05:02,190 Speaker 1: staffs tightly and turned their heads at the sound of 64 00:05:02,410 --> 00:05:03,600 Speaker 1: every broken tweak. 65 00:05:04,270 --> 00:05:07,640 Speaker 5: Master Nabel wasn't right to send us out here without guards, 66 00:05:08,279 --> 00:05:09,880 Speaker 5: one of them said with a trembling voice. 67 00:05:13,300 --> 00:05:17,600 Speaker 1: Another said, All ten of the shepherds were young and 68 00:05:17,640 --> 00:05:22,930 Speaker 1: inexperienced in combat. They knew that if bandits came, they 69 00:05:22,970 --> 00:05:28,780 Speaker 1: would be utterly defenseless. The tree covering became thick, and 70 00:05:28,800 --> 00:05:34,240 Speaker 1: the sun was nearly blocked entirely. As darkness shrouded the 71 00:05:34,279 --> 00:05:37,800 Speaker 1: young men and their sheep, a rustling could be heard 72 00:05:37,860 --> 00:05:43,230 Speaker 1: from the darkness. Before the men could brace themselves, a 73 00:05:43,290 --> 00:05:48,390 Speaker 1: group of bandits emerged from the shadows to attack. The 74 00:05:48,450 --> 00:05:51,909 Speaker 1: sheep scattered in fear as the shepherds desperately tried to 75 00:05:51,970 --> 00:05:56,560 Speaker 1: defend themselves. they were thrust to the ground by the bandits, 76 00:05:57,230 --> 00:06:00,320 Speaker 1: who brought their swords up to their necks, posturing to 77 00:06:00,430 --> 00:06:05,350 Speaker 1: swipe them across their throats. Yet before they could move 78 00:06:05,430 --> 00:06:09,930 Speaker 1: another inch, a stone whistled through the air and hit 79 00:06:10,029 --> 00:06:14,490 Speaker 1: one of them directly in the forehead. The crack of 80 00:06:14,550 --> 00:06:17,770 Speaker 1: the skull preceded a large thud of the bandit hitting 81 00:06:17,810 --> 00:06:22,370 Speaker 1: the floor. The rest of them looked over and gasped 82 00:06:22,450 --> 00:06:28,700 Speaker 1: as David and his men stormed forward. The bandits ran 83 00:06:28,760 --> 00:06:32,890 Speaker 1: for their lives, but David wouldn't let them leave without 84 00:06:32,990 --> 00:06:38,050 Speaker 1: tasting justice. David and his men wrangled them to the 85 00:06:38,110 --> 00:06:43,550 Speaker 1: floor and took back what was stolen. They released the bandits, 86 00:06:43,950 --> 00:06:47,719 Speaker 1: but not without swift blows to the ribs and wounds 87 00:06:47,900 --> 00:06:53,229 Speaker 1: on their legs. Bruised and beaten, The bandits retreated back 88 00:06:53,290 --> 00:06:58,190 Speaker 1: to the shadows. David helped the shepherds to their feet 89 00:06:58,610 --> 00:07:01,670 Speaker 1: and brought them back to his camp. He treated them 90 00:07:01,870 --> 00:07:07,029 Speaker 1: to a warm meal. David crouched by the fire and smiled. 91 00:07:07,690 --> 00:07:10,170 Speaker 6: My men have retrieved the rest of your sheep. All 92 00:07:10,190 --> 00:07:12,790 Speaker 6: will be returned to your master. Where do you come from? 93 00:07:13,490 --> 00:07:16,090 Speaker 6: Thank you, sir. We are very grateful. 94 00:07:16,530 --> 00:07:18,330 Speaker 5: We are servants of Master Nabal. 95 00:07:18,910 --> 00:07:20,190 Speaker 6: His land is at Carmel. 96 00:07:20,860 --> 00:07:25,060 Speaker 5: He's an incredibly wealthy man, but he's very strict. It 97 00:07:25,120 --> 00:07:28,350 Speaker 5: brings us great relief that you've saved us. If those 98 00:07:28,470 --> 00:07:31,630 Speaker 5: bandits did not kill us, surely Nabal would have. 99 00:07:31,950 --> 00:07:33,530 Speaker 1: David acknowledged their gratitude. 100 00:07:34,130 --> 00:07:36,670 Speaker 6: We have been here for a few months now. There 101 00:07:36,730 --> 00:07:40,190 Speaker 6: are many evil men about seeking to rob vulnerable travellers. 102 00:07:40,750 --> 00:07:43,190 Speaker 6: We've been keeping a close eye on the roads, ensuring 103 00:07:43,210 --> 00:07:48,010 Speaker 6: that no harm comes to anyone. However, keeping ourselves and 104 00:07:48,050 --> 00:07:50,900 Speaker 6: others safe has been quite a weary task. It would 105 00:07:50,920 --> 00:07:53,460 Speaker 6: certainly be nice to share a warm meal during this 106 00:07:53,540 --> 00:07:56,820 Speaker 6: festive time. Do you think your master might return our 107 00:07:56,880 --> 00:08:01,140 Speaker 6: kindness with some hospitality? My men need some rest from 108 00:08:01,160 --> 00:08:03,520 Speaker 6: the long days and the cold nights. 109 00:08:04,220 --> 00:08:07,700 Speaker 1: The shepherds looked at one another, not sure if Nabal 110 00:08:07,740 --> 00:08:12,060 Speaker 1: would be the sort to accept David's request. However, they 111 00:08:12,280 --> 00:08:12,880 Speaker 1: had to pay. 112 00:08:13,340 --> 00:08:15,840 Speaker 5: We could inquire of our master on your behalf. 113 00:08:16,460 --> 00:08:17,580 Speaker 6: It's the least we could do. 114 00:08:17,880 --> 00:08:22,620 Speaker 1: They ventured off with their sheep to their master. David 115 00:08:22,680 --> 00:08:26,780 Speaker 1: watched them leave, hopeful that he and his men could 116 00:08:26,800 --> 00:08:31,510 Speaker 1: get one act of kindness. Just one. The young men 117 00:08:31,650 --> 00:08:36,630 Speaker 1: entered the great halls of Nabal's home. Large cedar beams 118 00:08:36,850 --> 00:08:40,530 Speaker 1: held up the high ceilings, and servants laced the halls, 119 00:08:41,270 --> 00:08:44,579 Speaker 1: preparing yet another large feast for Nabal and his friends. 120 00:08:46,820 --> 00:08:49,140 Speaker 1: Nabal sat in a prominent seat in the center of 121 00:08:49,160 --> 00:08:53,280 Speaker 1: the room, like a king would on his throne. He 122 00:08:53,320 --> 00:08:57,640 Speaker 1: was a large and foul-looking man. His haggard beard hid 123 00:08:57,700 --> 00:09:01,920 Speaker 1: the rotting teeth in his mouth. He sat on his throne, 124 00:09:02,240 --> 00:09:08,040 Speaker 1: as he often did, half-drunk, and berated his servants. Beside 125 00:09:08,080 --> 00:09:12,560 Speaker 1: him was his wife, Abigail. She was a young woman, 126 00:09:13,260 --> 00:09:17,560 Speaker 1: given to him in marriage by her father. Unlike her 127 00:09:17,679 --> 00:09:22,470 Speaker 1: surly and moronic husband, Abigail was a kind and wise 128 00:09:22,570 --> 00:09:28,380 Speaker 1: young woman. She held herself with honor and dignity, treating 129 00:09:28,420 --> 00:09:34,739 Speaker 1: the household servants with respect and compassion. However, even her 130 00:09:34,900 --> 00:09:39,380 Speaker 1: calm and elegant demeanor could not offset the flagrant nature 131 00:09:39,600 --> 00:09:44,400 Speaker 1: of her husband. He raged against his entire household and 132 00:09:44,460 --> 00:09:50,920 Speaker 1: abused his authority. The shepherds approached with caution, with David's 133 00:09:51,000 --> 00:09:57,850 Speaker 1: escorts close behind. Nabal glared at them and pointed to 134 00:09:57,910 --> 00:09:59,500 Speaker 1: the strangers entering his halls. 135 00:10:00,100 --> 00:10:05,820 Speaker 7: Well, not only do you come late with the sheep, 136 00:10:06,970 --> 00:10:10,150 Speaker 7: but you bring strangers into my home. 137 00:10:12,410 --> 00:10:14,030 Speaker 4: Explain yourselves! 138 00:10:14,630 --> 00:10:18,650 Speaker 5: Lord, we were attacked on the road by bandits. They 139 00:10:18,690 --> 00:10:23,270 Speaker 5: took our sheep. and nearly took our lives. Yet praise 140 00:10:23,490 --> 00:10:27,670 Speaker 5: God that David and his men came swiftly to our 141 00:10:27,860 --> 00:10:32,480 Speaker 5: aid and saved us. These are his servants. They are 142 00:10:32,559 --> 00:10:35,699 Speaker 5: here to humbly request your hospitality. 143 00:10:36,240 --> 00:10:39,800 Speaker 1: Just as David's servants were about to speak, Nabal raised 144 00:10:39,840 --> 00:10:41,920 Speaker 1: his hands and began to chuckle. 145 00:10:42,320 --> 00:10:43,020 Speaker 5: David? 146 00:10:44,380 --> 00:10:45,260 Speaker 1: Who's David? 147 00:10:47,160 --> 00:10:49,380 Speaker 4: Oh, that outlaw son of Jesse. 148 00:10:53,440 --> 00:10:57,920 Speaker 5: I see many slaves are leaving their masters these days. 149 00:10:58,000 --> 00:11:01,420 Speaker 1: He leaned over and spat in the servant's direction. 150 00:11:01,440 --> 00:11:05,470 Speaker 7: Why should I offer my bread my meat and water 151 00:11:05,490 --> 00:11:15,270 Speaker 7: and give it to some worthless nobody like him get 152 00:11:15,370 --> 00:11:18,090 Speaker 7: out of my sight before I call my dogs. 153 00:11:17,809 --> 00:11:22,830 Speaker 1: On you David's men said nothing They simply bowed and 154 00:11:22,890 --> 00:11:28,570 Speaker 1: left the halls. Nabal continued to laugh and drink, leaning 155 00:11:28,650 --> 00:11:34,610 Speaker 1: back in his seat, satisfied. Abigail peered over to them. 156 00:11:35,410 --> 00:11:37,809 Speaker 2: Are you certain you want to insult the man who 157 00:11:37,850 --> 00:11:39,590 Speaker 2: saved Israel from the Philistines? 158 00:11:40,350 --> 00:11:43,550 Speaker 1: Nabal glared at his wife. He spat to the side 159 00:11:44,130 --> 00:11:49,020 Speaker 1: and held out an empty cup. Get me more wine, wife. 160 00:11:56,200 --> 00:12:00,199 Speaker 1: Abigail said nothing. She took her husband's cup and left 161 00:12:00,280 --> 00:12:05,760 Speaker 1: into the kitchen. David's men arrived that night. All the 162 00:12:05,840 --> 00:12:10,210 Speaker 1: others were sitting by the fires, eating and laughing. David 163 00:12:10,330 --> 00:12:14,890 Speaker 1: was among them, telling valiant stories of battle beside Jonathan. 164 00:12:16,730 --> 00:12:20,850 Speaker 1: When the servants approached, he could tell they were despondent. 165 00:12:21,410 --> 00:12:22,910 Speaker 6: Why the downcast face, brothers? 166 00:12:23,700 --> 00:12:25,540 Speaker 1: The men sat down and rubbed their faces. 167 00:12:26,120 --> 00:12:28,180 Speaker 5: Nabal has rejected our request. 168 00:12:28,720 --> 00:12:28,960 Speaker 2: What? 169 00:12:29,570 --> 00:12:29,850 Speaker 3: Why? 170 00:12:30,380 --> 00:12:33,730 Speaker 5: Well, he said he didn't want to waste his resources on. 171 00:12:33,630 --> 00:12:35,150 Speaker 1: A nobody like you. 172 00:12:35,630 --> 00:12:39,470 Speaker 5: He called you a slave who ran away from his master. 173 00:12:39,910 --> 00:12:44,900 Speaker 1: David's entire countenance changed. The rest of the men stepped back, 174 00:12:45,679 --> 00:12:51,000 Speaker 1: feeling the anger leaking from his pores. David's bones were 175 00:12:51,220 --> 00:12:55,819 Speaker 1: shaking in rage. He stood to his feet and stormed 176 00:12:55,880 --> 00:12:59,680 Speaker 1: to his tent. The men wondered if he had retreated 177 00:12:59,720 --> 00:13:02,660 Speaker 1: for the night to think and pray, as he often did. 178 00:13:04,080 --> 00:13:08,590 Speaker 1: He didn't. He emerged from the tent, fully clothed in 179 00:13:08,650 --> 00:13:12,110 Speaker 1: his armor, with his sword strapped to his side. 180 00:13:12,610 --> 00:13:13,470 Speaker 5: Gather your weapons! 181 00:13:14,070 --> 00:13:16,569 Speaker 1: Each retrieved their weapons and stood at attention. 182 00:13:17,070 --> 00:13:19,670 Speaker 8: I won't allow Nabal to dishonor us after everything we've 183 00:13:19,700 --> 00:13:22,840 Speaker 8: done for his land. It's a disgrace, a disgrace, I 184 00:13:22,880 --> 00:13:23,260 Speaker 8: tell you! 185 00:13:23,850 --> 00:13:25,890 Speaker 6: I will not allow him to spite us. 186 00:13:26,590 --> 00:13:29,469 Speaker 1: He turned to his messenger and placed an urgent hand 187 00:13:29,570 --> 00:13:30,130 Speaker 1: on his chest. 188 00:13:30,690 --> 00:13:35,320 Speaker 6: Go and tell the shepherds to take cover. Destruction is 189 00:13:35,390 --> 00:13:37,500 Speaker 6: on its way to the house of Nabal. 190 00:13:38,020 --> 00:13:41,780 Speaker 1: The men marched silently. No one dared speak to David 191 00:13:42,300 --> 00:13:47,520 Speaker 1: or question his judgment. David didn't boil with fury often, 192 00:13:48,480 --> 00:13:52,340 Speaker 1: but when he did, the men knew not to approach him. 193 00:13:54,140 --> 00:13:54,720 Speaker 6: Abigail! 194 00:13:55,100 --> 00:13:57,740 Speaker 1: The door burst open, and one of the shepherds came 195 00:13:57,780 --> 00:13:58,420 Speaker 1: into her room. 196 00:13:59,200 --> 00:14:01,829 Speaker 6: I'm sorry, mistress, but I must speak with you. 197 00:14:02,150 --> 00:14:02,650 Speaker 2: What's wrong? 198 00:14:03,030 --> 00:14:06,309 Speaker 5: I fear David's anger has been kindled against Nabal. 199 00:14:06,850 --> 00:14:08,790 Speaker 6: He's marching towards us as we speak. 200 00:14:09,290 --> 00:14:12,109 Speaker 2: Is this David so fragile that he would kill my 201 00:14:12,170 --> 00:14:13,890 Speaker 2: husband just for insulting him? 202 00:14:14,370 --> 00:14:16,910 Speaker 5: That's not it at all, my lady. David and his 203 00:14:16,970 --> 00:14:20,090 Speaker 5: men were very good to us. They put their own 204 00:14:20,150 --> 00:14:22,470 Speaker 5: lives in danger to help us when they could have 205 00:14:22,530 --> 00:14:25,870 Speaker 5: simply looked the other way. They've been protecting the entire 206 00:14:25,950 --> 00:14:30,180 Speaker 5: region for months now. The entire territory is better off 207 00:14:30,240 --> 00:14:34,080 Speaker 5: because of David. Now, do you understand why David would 208 00:14:34,120 --> 00:14:35,180 Speaker 5: be so insulted? 209 00:14:35,740 --> 00:14:39,200 Speaker 2: My husband is a stubborn man. Even if David threatens 210 00:14:39,240 --> 00:14:41,880 Speaker 2: his life, I can't convince him to apologize. 211 00:14:42,440 --> 00:14:46,060 Speaker 1: Abigail pondered for a moment. She tied up her hair 212 00:14:46,460 --> 00:14:47,540 Speaker 1: and rolled up her sleeves. 213 00:14:48,180 --> 00:14:50,140 Speaker 2: Come down with me. We shall make this right. 214 00:14:50,700 --> 00:14:54,460 Speaker 1: Abigail ventured to the ovens and kitchen. She clapped her 215 00:14:54,500 --> 00:14:57,000 Speaker 1: hands together and grabbed the attention of the servants. 216 00:14:57,540 --> 00:14:59,230 Speaker 2: Come with me. We haven't got much time. 217 00:14:59,690 --> 00:15:03,290 Speaker 1: Together, they baked and gathered two hundred loaves of bread. 218 00:15:04,510 --> 00:15:08,290 Speaker 1: They poured two skins of wine, five dressed sheep, and 219 00:15:08,410 --> 00:15:15,390 Speaker 1: five seas of roasted grain. Abigail and the others also 220 00:15:15,470 --> 00:15:18,960 Speaker 1: made a hundred raisin cakes and two hundred cakes of 221 00:15:19,020 --> 00:15:19,620 Speaker 1: fresh figs. 222 00:15:20,240 --> 00:15:22,940 Speaker 2: Help me gather everything in baskets. We shall load them 223 00:15:23,000 --> 00:15:23,600 Speaker 2: on my donkey. 224 00:15:24,020 --> 00:15:28,300 Speaker 1: Abigail was a steady commander of her household. She remained 225 00:15:28,440 --> 00:15:33,780 Speaker 1: calm but urgent. She was intent on making peace. 226 00:15:34,640 --> 00:15:36,190 Speaker 2: Quickly, it's almost dawn. 227 00:15:36,750 --> 00:15:40,130 Speaker 1: Once the baskets were loaded onto a donkey, she sent 228 00:15:40,190 --> 00:15:43,390 Speaker 1: two of her maidservants to go and deliver them to David. 229 00:15:43,980 --> 00:15:46,020 Speaker 2: Go and meet the men before they come and attack. 230 00:15:46,360 --> 00:15:47,940 Speaker 2: Tell them I will be close behind. 231 00:15:48,860 --> 00:15:52,520 Speaker 1: The sun rose over the mountain range. David and his 232 00:15:52,610 --> 00:15:56,550 Speaker 1: men stood in the narrow ravine looking down at Nabal's estate. 233 00:15:58,250 --> 00:16:02,510 Speaker 1: The sun's rays burst forth uninhibited by any cloud covering. 234 00:16:04,520 --> 00:16:07,300 Speaker 1: The warmth of the new morning was a sweet relief 235 00:16:07,500 --> 00:16:12,940 Speaker 1: to David's men who had been marching all night. David 236 00:16:13,060 --> 00:16:17,430 Speaker 1: drew his sword and breathed in deeply. He was unable 237 00:16:17,470 --> 00:16:23,080 Speaker 1: to calm himself all night. His fury was steady and unwavering. 238 00:16:23,620 --> 00:16:26,660 Speaker 8: It's been useless watching over this man's property all these 239 00:16:26,760 --> 00:16:30,590 Speaker 8: weeks and keeping his servants safe. I'm done paying this 240 00:16:30,650 --> 00:16:34,430 Speaker 8: man kindness only to be repaid in insults. He paid 241 00:16:34,490 --> 00:16:38,350 Speaker 8: back evil for good. May God deal with me severely 242 00:16:38,650 --> 00:16:41,460 Speaker 8: if I leave one of his men alive by the 243 00:16:41,540 --> 00:16:43,480 Speaker 8: time the day is finished. 244 00:16:43,840 --> 00:16:46,760 Speaker 1: David turned back to his men and gestured for them 245 00:16:46,920 --> 00:16:52,240 Speaker 1: to move forward. Just as they began marching, Three figures 246 00:16:52,680 --> 00:16:57,820 Speaker 1: appeared in the distance. Two women and a donkey approached. 247 00:16:59,710 --> 00:17:02,650 Speaker 1: David held his men back and allowed them to come. 248 00:17:04,290 --> 00:17:07,929 Speaker 1: They bowed before David and presented him with the gifts 249 00:17:07,990 --> 00:17:10,070 Speaker 1: of cakes, bread, and wine. 250 00:17:10,890 --> 00:17:13,899 Speaker 2: Our Lord David, here is a gift from the house 251 00:17:13,960 --> 00:17:14,580 Speaker 2: of Nabal. 252 00:17:14,900 --> 00:17:17,119 Speaker 1: They looked at the baskets, puzzled. 253 00:17:17,800 --> 00:17:18,100 Speaker 5: What? 254 00:17:18,560 --> 00:17:19,840 Speaker 6: Nabal sent these himself? 255 00:17:19,859 --> 00:17:19,929 Speaker 8: Yes. 256 00:17:20,590 --> 00:17:23,969 Speaker 2: Not Nabal, but our mistress Abigail. She is on her 257 00:17:24,040 --> 00:17:25,140 Speaker 2: way to greet you now. 258 00:17:25,640 --> 00:17:29,320 Speaker 1: David looked back at his men, still teeming with rage 259 00:17:29,540 --> 00:17:34,660 Speaker 1: against Nabal. His disgruntled heart was still itching for a fight. 260 00:17:36,280 --> 00:17:39,659 Speaker 1: He had been taken advantage of and ridiculed for the 261 00:17:39,800 --> 00:17:46,120 Speaker 1: last time, and he wanted justice. However, all the feelings 262 00:17:46,160 --> 00:17:50,100 Speaker 1: of aggression and contempt seemed to melt away, when David 263 00:17:50,119 --> 00:17:56,890 Speaker 1: looked ahead to see Abigail. She was undeniably beautiful, disarmingly so. 264 00:17:57,910 --> 00:18:02,070 Speaker 1: But David's anger wouldn't be quelled by a beautiful woman alone. 265 00:18:03,590 --> 00:18:09,239 Speaker 1: David approached Abigail. They stopped midway, taking each other in 266 00:18:09,600 --> 00:18:14,580 Speaker 1: for a long moment before speaking. Abigail broke the silence 267 00:18:15,220 --> 00:18:16,240 Speaker 1: and bowed to David. 268 00:18:16,869 --> 00:18:20,360 Speaker 2: Please, my lord. Pardon the household of my husband. Pay 269 00:18:20,420 --> 00:18:24,159 Speaker 2: no attention to his wicked and ignorant comments. He is 270 00:18:24,200 --> 00:18:28,020 Speaker 2: a fool. Folly follows that man like moth to a flame. 271 00:18:28,560 --> 00:18:31,300 Speaker 1: Abigail lifted her head and gestured to the army of 272 00:18:31,380 --> 00:18:36,270 Speaker 1: men behind David. They were waiting at a distance, ready 273 00:18:36,530 --> 00:18:38,070 Speaker 1: for David's order to attack. 274 00:18:38,810 --> 00:18:41,830 Speaker 2: I have provided gifts for you and your men. May 275 00:18:41,869 --> 00:18:44,649 Speaker 2: God bless you for your mercy against the house of Nabal. 276 00:18:45,260 --> 00:18:48,300 Speaker 2: May he give you a long-lasting dynasty because you fight 277 00:18:48,359 --> 00:18:51,929 Speaker 2: the Lord's battles, not petty squabbles because of an obtuse 278 00:18:52,010 --> 00:18:55,750 Speaker 2: and cranky man. Even though King Saul pursues you, your 279 00:18:55,810 --> 00:18:59,350 Speaker 2: life is bound securely by the Lord your God. The 280 00:18:59,390 --> 00:19:01,629 Speaker 2: lives of your enemies will be hurled away like a 281 00:19:01,710 --> 00:19:05,030 Speaker 2: stone from your sling. When God has fulfilled his calling 282 00:19:05,090 --> 00:19:07,430 Speaker 2: for you and made you king, do you want your 283 00:19:07,550 --> 00:19:10,619 Speaker 2: conscience consumed with an act of needless bloodshed? 284 00:19:11,460 --> 00:19:18,570 Speaker 1: Abigail's words were kind. diplomatic and wise. David noticed that 285 00:19:18,750 --> 00:19:23,550 Speaker 1: she wasn't just fair in appearance, but also adorned with 286 00:19:23,609 --> 00:19:29,929 Speaker 1: an inner beauty. A gentle yet strong spirit dwelled within her. 287 00:19:31,390 --> 00:19:35,880 Speaker 1: David was curious to discover more about it. He looked 288 00:19:35,940 --> 00:19:38,659 Speaker 1: back at his men and gestured for them to be 289 00:19:38,700 --> 00:19:42,639 Speaker 1: at ease. They immediately went for the baskets of bread 290 00:19:42,680 --> 00:19:48,280 Speaker 1: and cakes. David laughed and looked again at Abigail. He 291 00:19:48,320 --> 00:19:49,139 Speaker 1: composed himself. 292 00:19:50,150 --> 00:19:54,110 Speaker 6: Praise the Lord for you, Abigail. Your good judgment has 293 00:19:54,290 --> 00:19:59,250 Speaker 6: kept me from mindless revenge and petty bloodshed. It's not 294 00:19:59,369 --> 00:20:02,709 Speaker 6: like me to be kindled so easily. If God had 295 00:20:02,750 --> 00:20:05,949 Speaker 6: not sent you, not one male in Abel's home would 296 00:20:05,970 --> 00:20:06,850 Speaker 6: have been left alive. 297 00:20:07,550 --> 00:20:09,630 Speaker 2: I can only imagine what you and your men have 298 00:20:09,650 --> 00:20:12,770 Speaker 2: been through. You've gone beyond what others would have done 299 00:20:12,869 --> 00:20:16,250 Speaker 2: and protected this land. Nabal can't see what I see, 300 00:20:16,810 --> 00:20:19,030 Speaker 2: that you are the next king of Israel. 301 00:20:19,530 --> 00:20:23,040 Speaker 1: Abigail's words were like a balm to David's wounded heart. 302 00:20:24,920 --> 00:20:30,200 Speaker 1: This woman, a stranger, had called out the best in David. 303 00:20:32,300 --> 00:20:36,080 Speaker 1: A bashful grin came across his face, making him chuckle. 304 00:20:37,980 --> 00:20:43,000 Speaker 1: Abigail laughed as well. The two shared a small moment 305 00:20:43,040 --> 00:20:48,840 Speaker 1: of connection, followed by a beautiful silence that David didn't 306 00:20:48,920 --> 00:20:49,550 Speaker 1: want to end. 307 00:20:49,980 --> 00:20:53,740 Speaker 6: Go home in peace, Abigail. Your words have saved both 308 00:20:53,780 --> 00:20:56,459 Speaker 6: your husband's life and my integrity. 309 00:20:57,200 --> 00:21:00,719 Speaker 1: Abigail bowed and returned to her donkey with her maidservants. 310 00:21:02,340 --> 00:21:05,380 Speaker 1: David turned back to enjoy the gifts with his men. 311 00:21:07,400 --> 00:21:12,750 Speaker 1: Both of them resisted the desire. to turn around and 312 00:21:12,810 --> 00:21:14,650 Speaker 1: steal another glance. 313 00:21:23,160 --> 00:21:26,020 Speaker 4: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons 314 00:21:26,060 --> 00:21:31,080 Speaker 4: of God. Jesus highlights the importance of being a peacemaker, 315 00:21:31,619 --> 00:21:43,420 Speaker 4: someone who actively works to reconcile and seeking to bring harmony, understanding, 316 00:21:43,859 --> 00:21:48,680 Speaker 4: and healing in situations of strife. Peacemakers reflect the heart 317 00:21:48,720 --> 00:21:52,550 Speaker 4: of God, who desires peace and reconciliation for His creation. 318 00:21:53,890 --> 00:21:57,050 Speaker 4: As citizens of heaven, we are called to be peacemakers, 319 00:21:57,490 --> 00:22:01,150 Speaker 4: embodying the character of Jesus and bringing God's peace into 320 00:22:01,290 --> 00:22:06,430 Speaker 4: our world. Abigail's story is a powerful illustration of peacemaking 321 00:22:06,570 --> 00:22:11,040 Speaker 4: in action. David, who would later become king, was living 322 00:22:11,080 --> 00:22:14,540 Speaker 4: in the wilderness with his men. During this time, he 323 00:22:14,580 --> 00:22:18,180 Speaker 4: provided protection to the shepherds of a wealthy man named Nabal. 324 00:22:19,240 --> 00:22:21,840 Speaker 4: When David sent his men to ask Nabal for provisions, 325 00:22:22,340 --> 00:22:27,679 Speaker 4: Nabal responded with insults and refused to help. Enraged, David 326 00:22:27,790 --> 00:22:32,190 Speaker 4: planned to destroy Nabal and his household. This doesn't seem 327 00:22:32,250 --> 00:22:34,930 Speaker 4: like the David we know, but keep in mind that 328 00:22:35,050 --> 00:22:37,850 Speaker 4: he's been in the wilderness for a long time, offering 329 00:22:37,950 --> 00:22:41,590 Speaker 4: free protection to the villagers and and running from King Saul. 330 00:22:42,470 --> 00:22:47,620 Speaker 4: He's tired, weary, and at the end of himself. This 331 00:22:47,650 --> 00:22:51,390 Speaker 4: doesn't excuse David's behavior, but it does give us insight 332 00:22:51,600 --> 00:22:55,620 Speaker 4: into how we must think as peacemakers. We don't know 333 00:22:55,740 --> 00:22:58,919 Speaker 4: what people are going through. That person who cut you 334 00:22:59,000 --> 00:23:01,820 Speaker 4: off on the freeway may be rushing to the hospital. 335 00:23:02,580 --> 00:23:05,419 Speaker 4: The bully at school may have just lost a loved one. 336 00:23:06,540 --> 00:23:09,310 Speaker 4: A police officer once told me that His job is 337 00:23:09,350 --> 00:23:11,950 Speaker 4: to help people walk through what is most likely the 338 00:23:12,070 --> 00:23:16,369 Speaker 4: worst days of their lives. That perspective helped him to 339 00:23:16,450 --> 00:23:21,470 Speaker 4: navigate tense situations to be a peacemaker. Where he didn't 340 00:23:21,580 --> 00:23:26,320 Speaker 4: immediately villainize others, but rather recognized that the situation was 341 00:23:26,460 --> 00:23:31,120 Speaker 4: likely them at their lowest point. David very nearly made 342 00:23:31,160 --> 00:23:36,880 Speaker 4: a huge mistake. But Abigail intervened to prevent the bloodshed. 343 00:23:38,080 --> 00:23:41,840 Speaker 4: Abigail acted quickly and brought provisions to David, humbly pleading 344 00:23:41,880 --> 00:23:45,300 Speaker 4: for mercy and appealing to his sense of justice and 345 00:23:45,400 --> 00:23:50,419 Speaker 4: future kingship. Her approach not only averted a massacre, but 346 00:23:50,530 --> 00:23:54,929 Speaker 4: also reminded David of his higher calling and his responsibility 347 00:23:54,970 --> 00:23:59,470 Speaker 4: before God. David recognized her wisdom and blessed her for 348 00:23:59,530 --> 00:24:04,830 Speaker 4: preventing him from committing bloodshed and avenging himself. Abigail's intervention 349 00:24:04,890 --> 00:24:09,629 Speaker 4: prevented a violent conflict, She approached David with humility and wisdom, 350 00:24:10,030 --> 00:24:14,490 Speaker 4: offering a peace offering and words of reconciliation. Her actions 351 00:24:14,630 --> 00:24:19,330 Speaker 4: exemplified the true spirit of a peacemaker, bringing about peace 352 00:24:19,910 --> 00:24:24,379 Speaker 4: and preventing bloodshed. How do we march as peacemakers in 353 00:24:24,390 --> 00:24:30,660 Speaker 4: this chaotic and contentious climate? With charged election seasons, family drama, 354 00:24:30,780 --> 00:24:34,320 Speaker 4: and workplace dynamics, how can we rise above the fray 355 00:24:34,740 --> 00:24:38,580 Speaker 4: and be known as children of God? ambassadors of peace 356 00:24:38,680 --> 00:24:42,879 Speaker 4: in the most grueling situations. Here are some traits of 357 00:24:43,220 --> 00:24:50,359 Speaker 4: Christ-like peacemakers. The first trait is proactive peacemaking. Abigail acted 358 00:24:50,440 --> 00:24:55,070 Speaker 4: quickly to address the impending conflict. In our lives, we 359 00:24:55,170 --> 00:24:59,910 Speaker 4: should be proactive in resolving disputes and tensions before they escalate. 360 00:25:01,150 --> 00:25:05,020 Speaker 4: Jesus saw being proactive as so important that He told 361 00:25:05,040 --> 00:25:07,879 Speaker 4: people to refrain from their worship until they reconcile with 362 00:25:07,900 --> 00:25:11,800 Speaker 4: their brothers and sisters. He says this in Matthew 5, 363 00:25:11,800 --> 00:25:16,960 Speaker 4: verses 23 and 24. Therefore, if you are offering your 364 00:25:17,030 --> 00:25:19,670 Speaker 4: gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother 365 00:25:19,730 --> 00:25:22,990 Speaker 4: or sister has something against you, leave your gift there 366 00:25:23,070 --> 00:25:26,409 Speaker 4: in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled 367 00:25:26,450 --> 00:25:30,129 Speaker 4: to them. Then come and offer your gift. Can I 368 00:25:30,450 --> 00:25:33,970 Speaker 4: translate that into modern terms for you? If you're on 369 00:25:34,010 --> 00:25:37,770 Speaker 4: your way to church and there's an unsettled argument or 370 00:25:37,910 --> 00:25:42,850 Speaker 4: harbored resentment between you and your spouse, pull over, reconcile, 371 00:25:43,710 --> 00:25:49,630 Speaker 4: talk things through. Relationships matter that much to God. This 372 00:25:49,690 --> 00:25:55,840 Speaker 4: may involve initiating difficult conversations, offering apologies, or seeking mediation. 373 00:25:56,680 --> 00:26:00,840 Speaker 4: The peacemaker doesn't wait for others to initiate. Like Abigail, 374 00:26:01,320 --> 00:26:04,960 Speaker 4: they take the first step. The second and third traits 375 00:26:05,359 --> 00:26:11,060 Speaker 4: are humility coupled with wisdom. Abigail's humility in addressing David 376 00:26:11,359 --> 00:26:16,690 Speaker 4: played a crucial role in de-escalating the situation. Similarly, approaching 377 00:26:16,810 --> 00:26:20,750 Speaker 4: conflicts with humility and a willingness to listen can open 378 00:26:20,770 --> 00:26:25,550 Speaker 4: the door to reconciliation. Wisdom in our words and actions, 379 00:26:25,990 --> 00:26:30,340 Speaker 4: guided by a desire for peace, can transform potential conflicts 380 00:26:30,820 --> 00:26:37,150 Speaker 4: into opportunities for harmony. Next is an understanding and compassionate heart. 381 00:26:38,730 --> 00:26:43,230 Speaker 4: Abigail demonstrated a deep understanding of David's situation and appealed 382 00:26:43,270 --> 00:26:48,320 Speaker 4: to his conscience. We should strive to understand the perspectives 383 00:26:48,450 --> 00:26:53,880 Speaker 4: and emotions of those involved in conflicts, showing compassion and empathy. 384 00:26:55,380 --> 00:26:59,500 Speaker 4: This can help find common ground and foster mutual respect. 385 00:27:01,040 --> 00:27:04,879 Speaker 4: Ask yourself this. Have I been assuming the people I'm 386 00:27:05,060 --> 00:27:08,979 Speaker 4: arguing with are trying to hurt me? The odds are, 387 00:27:09,380 --> 00:27:12,800 Speaker 4: those you would consider villains aren't stewing in their lairs, 388 00:27:13,160 --> 00:27:17,240 Speaker 4: plotting ways to torture you. Usually, they view themselves as 389 00:27:17,460 --> 00:27:22,030 Speaker 4: good people. It takes a patient and compassionate person to 390 00:27:22,109 --> 00:27:26,689 Speaker 4: steer them in the right direction. Next, and this is 391 00:27:26,730 --> 00:27:32,010 Speaker 4: a big one, peacemakers appeal to people's higher values. Abigail 392 00:27:32,070 --> 00:27:35,410 Speaker 4: reminded David of his calling and his future as a king, 393 00:27:36,470 --> 00:27:39,640 Speaker 4: encouraging him to act in accordance with his higher values. 394 00:27:40,740 --> 00:27:43,760 Speaker 4: In our efforts to make peace, we can remind others 395 00:27:44,240 --> 00:27:48,770 Speaker 4: and ourselves of shared values and goals, promoting actions that 396 00:27:48,830 --> 00:27:53,190 Speaker 4: align with our principles and faith. Sometimes we can get 397 00:27:53,270 --> 00:27:56,869 Speaker 4: lost in the madness of our circumstances and forget the 398 00:27:56,910 --> 00:28:00,670 Speaker 4: bigger picture. In the storms of strife, we can forget 399 00:28:00,750 --> 00:28:04,990 Speaker 4: what anchors us. Peacemakers must be able to appeal to 400 00:28:05,130 --> 00:28:08,790 Speaker 4: people's sense of honor, their duty to a higher purpose, 401 00:28:09,230 --> 00:28:13,160 Speaker 4: and their values. He hears a saying many spouses can 402 00:28:13,180 --> 00:28:18,200 Speaker 4: take into their marriage. Call people up, not out. Calling 403 00:28:18,260 --> 00:28:21,950 Speaker 4: somebody out exposes them for the wrong they've done, making 404 00:28:21,970 --> 00:28:26,330 Speaker 4: them feel guilty and ashamed. Calling people up helps them 405 00:28:26,410 --> 00:28:29,370 Speaker 4: realize that they aren't living up to the potential God 406 00:28:29,430 --> 00:28:36,020 Speaker 4: gave them. Lastly, peacemakers reflect God's peace. As peacemakers, we 407 00:28:36,140 --> 00:28:40,120 Speaker 4: embody the peace of Christ. Remember the story of Jesus 408 00:28:40,360 --> 00:28:44,160 Speaker 4: calming the storm? We talked about how peace isn't the 409 00:28:44,350 --> 00:28:47,990 Speaker 4: absence of storms, but the presence of Jesus in the storm. 410 00:28:48,690 --> 00:28:53,870 Speaker 4: Peacemakers bring Jesus into the storm. You aren't the hero 411 00:28:54,030 --> 00:28:57,820 Speaker 4: trying to save people. You're just a blind beggar leading 412 00:28:57,960 --> 00:29:01,940 Speaker 4: other blind beggars to where the bread is. Jesus is 413 00:29:01,980 --> 00:29:05,160 Speaker 4: the answer, not you. The sooner you get that into 414 00:29:05,200 --> 00:29:09,840 Speaker 4: your head, the sooner you become a true peacemaker. As 415 00:29:09,880 --> 00:29:13,420 Speaker 4: we reflect on Jesus' words, blessed are the peacemakers, for 416 00:29:13,460 --> 00:29:16,430 Speaker 4: they shall be called sons of God, and the story 417 00:29:16,470 --> 00:29:21,570 Speaker 4: of Abigail's wise and courageous peacemaking. Let us strive to 418 00:29:21,610 --> 00:29:25,500 Speaker 4: be peacemakers in our lives. May we act quickly to 419 00:29:25,540 --> 00:29:31,459 Speaker 4: resolve conflicts, approach with humility, seek reconciliation, offer peace offerings, 420 00:29:31,960 --> 00:29:35,290 Speaker 4: and reflect God's peace. Let us pray for the grace 421 00:29:35,330 --> 00:29:39,370 Speaker 4: to be true citizens of heaven, living out the peace 422 00:29:39,430 --> 00:29:43,880 Speaker 4: that God does. for His creation. Thanks again for listening 423 00:29:43,920 --> 00:29:47,780 Speaker 4: to the Jesus Podcast. You know what to do. Like, subscribe, 424 00:29:47,820 --> 00:29:50,600 Speaker 4: and share it with your friends. See you next time 425 00:29:50,740 --> 00:29:53,020 Speaker 4: as we dive into a love story between a young 426 00:29:53,080 --> 00:29:54,880 Speaker 4: warrior and a captive beauty.