The Life Of David / How To Not Be A Fool | Pastor Nate Keeler
If you’ve ever made a decision in the heat of the moment—maybe out of anger, pride, or fear—you’re in good company. Even David, Israel’s most celebrated king, had his moments. In fact, one of his biggest lessons came not in battle, but in a moment of almost-violence—stopped only by a voice of wisdom.
This message isn’t just about David’s story. It’s about our story, too—about how we respond when wisdom shows up, often uninvited, but desperately needed.
The Fork in the Road: Retaliation or Restraint
David had just been insulted and disrespected by a man named Nabal. David’s gut reaction? Retaliation. Armed men. Ready for blood.
But then came Abigail—Nabal’s wife—who stepped in with food, humility, and most importantly, wisdom. She didn’t just diffuse the situation; she saved David from himself.
He listened. He stopped. He turned around. That’s wisdom in action.
But even in this beautiful moment of restraint, there’s a haunting footnote. David marries Abigail—and then adds more wives. This small, culturally accepted decision would later unravel into enormous family dysfunction, echoing across generations.
The Repeated Lesson: Trust God, Don’t Take Control
You might be thinking: didn’t David already learn this lesson when he spared Saul in the cave? Yes, and no. Like many of us, he had to relearn it.
And maybe you’re in that same place right now—facing conflict, facing injustice, and your instinct is to act, to speak, to take matters into your own hands. But what if the better path is to pause and listen?
God is a God of justice. No one gets away with anything. But He’s also patient—with David, and with us.
Wisdom Has a Name—and Often a Face
The Bible says “All a person’s ways seem right in their own eyes” (Proverbs 21:2). Sound familiar?
We all think we’re right. But what happens when someone challenges our assumptions? When wisdom shows up with a calm voice and uncomfortable truth?
David’s saving grace wasn’t perfection—it was humility. He listened to Abigail. He course-corrected.
So the question isn’t whether we make mistakes. We all do. The real question is: Do we listen to the Abigails in our life—or dismiss them like Nabal?
What Listening Looks Like in Real Life
Sometimes wisdom looks like:
- A friend challenging your decision to quit your job on impulse.
- A parent reminding you of values you’ve conveniently ignored.
- A pastor advising against burning a bridge you’ll one day need.
- A spouse raising a concern you’d rather not hear.
Are you teachable in those moments? Or are you closed off—already halfway down your path with a full head of steam?
I’ve had my share of Abigail moments. I’ve made calls in ministry that I was certain were brilliant—until someone poked holes in the plan. In hindsight, those moments saved me from pain, embarrassment, or worse.
And sometimes, that Abigail was my wife. Calmly pointing out what I couldn’t see. The iceberg I was about to hit.
Where Does Wisdom Come From?
It starts with God’s Word. That’s the foundation. But wisdom doesn’t stop there.
God sends Abigail-like voices through:
- Parents – who’ve made mistakes so we don’t have to.
- Friends – who care enough to say hard truths.
- Church leaders – who carry the burden of watching over your soul.
- Spouses – who see your blind spots more clearly than anyone else.
Are you inviting wisdom in—or shutting it out?
The Cost of Ignoring Wisdom
I’ve seen both outcomes: people headed for disaster, who changed course because they listened—and people who nodded, smiled, and did the opposite.
Some came back later with regrets: “I wish I would’ve listened.”
So here’s the challenge: Don’t be a Nabal. Don’t get so lost in your own thoughts that you miss the voice of God speaking through others.
The Ultimate Wisdom Is Found in Jesus
Abigail’s wisdom pointed to a deeper truth: the wisdom that comes from Christ Himself.
“To whom else shall we go?” Peter asked. “You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68).
Jesus offers more than advice—He offers life. And the very first step of wisdom is to listen to Him.
He said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
Not a formula. Not a shortcut. A relationship.
So—Who’s Your Abigail Right Now?
Is there a voice in your life that’s trying to slow you down? Someone gently urging you to reconsider your course? Maybe it’s time to stop, listen, and humble yourself.
Because the truth is, wisdom only helps when we’re willing to hear it.