Abigail and David

 •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 9
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Jonathan never separated from the system in which he stood, never united himself to David, although loving him, and never shared his sufferings. But Abigail identifies herself with him; existing relationships do not prevent her acknowledging David, and she is united to him after her husband’s death. Jonathan prefigures the character of the remnant of Israel who acknowledge the future king and adhere to him, but go no further; it is the kingdom. Jonathan does not suffer with David, and does not reign with him. He remains with Saul, and, as to that position, his career ends with Saul. Abigail, and even the malcontents who joined David, share his sufferings. Abigail separates herself completely from the spirit of her husband; and it is on account of her faith and wisdom that David spares Nabal’s life. God judges the latter, and then Abigail becomes the wife of David. Historically, David had nearly failed in his high standing. In fact, it is on account of the faithful remnant, the Abigail of the foolish nation (the Gentiles — see Deuteronomy 32:2121They have moved me to jealousy with that which is not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with those which are not a people; I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation. (Deuteronomy 32:21)), that Israel itself has been spared. The Lord’s connection with the church is in the character of pure grace, not in that of the avenger (as hereafter with Israel). At this time it is David, who, during his rejection, surrounds himself with those who will be the companions and the retinue of his glory in the kingdom; but he also takes a wife.
Present Testimony, Vol. 3