Daily text, Tuesday, June 7. 2016

[Queen Esther]

[Abigail] was discerning and beautiful.—1 Sam. 25:3.

Abigail was a noteworthy woman who lived in the 11th century B.C.E. She had discernment, whereas her husband, Nabal, was harsh, worthless, and senseless. David and his men protected Nabal’s possessions for a time, but when they asked for provisions, he “screamed insults at them” and gave them nothing. This angered David so much that he planned to do away with Nabal and his men. Hearing about this, Abigail took food and drink to David and his men, thereby preventing bloodshed. (1 Sam. 25:8-18) David later said to her: “Praise Jehovah the God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me!” (1 Sam. 25:32) In 455 B.C.E., among those who helped to repair the walls of Jerusalem were the daughters of Shallum, a prince of half the district of Jerusalem.) (Neh. 3:12 They willingly did menial work. How we appreciate the many Christian women who joyfully support theocratic building projects in various ways today! w14 8/15 1:13, 14