What role does gratitude play in acknowledging others' protection, as seen in 1 Samuel 25:15? Reading 1 Samuel 25 :15 “Yet the men treated us very well. We were not harmed, and nothing was taken from us the whole time we were with them in the fields.” What Gratitude Sounds Like - The shepherds openly recall how David’s band “treated us very well.” - They confess tangible evidence of protection: “We were not harmed,” “nothing was taken.” - Their words are a thank-you, spoken behind Nabal’s back but in front of Abigail, honoring the men who guarded them. Why Gratitude Matters When Protection Is Given - It publicly acknowledges God’s hand working through human agents (cf. Psalm 121:7; 2 Samuel 22:2-3). - It reinforces the moral duty to “render to all what is due them… honor to whom honor” (Romans 13:7). - It motivates protectors to keep serving faithfully (Proverbs 25:11). - It creates an atmosphere where justice can prevail; Abigail now has evidence to act righteously. Contrast: Gratitude Spoken vs. Gratitude Withheld - Servants: thankful, honest, eager to bless. - Nabal: silent, stingy, dismissive (vv. 10-11). - Result: servants share life; Nabal courts judgment (vv. 37-38). - Lesson: withholding gratitude from those who shield us invites loss; expressing it invites blessing (Proverbs 3:27-28). Echoes Elsewhere in Scripture - Luke 17:12-18 – Only one healed leper returned to give thanks; he alone heard “Your faith has made you well.” - Philippians 1:3-5 – Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians flows from their partnership in advancing the gospel, including his safety (Acts 16). - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 – “Appreciate those who labor among you… esteem them very highly in love because of their work.” - 2 Timothy 1:16-18 – Paul blesses Onesiphorus for often refreshing him and “not being ashamed” of his chains. Practical Ways to Imitate the Servants’ Gratitude - Speak specific thanks to those God uses to protect and shepherd you—parents, pastors, law-enforcement, military, mentors. - Record instances of God’s shielding care, naming the individuals He used. - Defend the reputation of faithful protectors when others remain silent. - Let gratitude shape your giving; Nabal withheld provision, Abigail supplied it (vv. 18-19). - Teach children to verbalize appreciation; gratitude is learned behavior (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Summary Points - Gratitude verbalizes the reality of protection we receive. - It honors both the human guardians and the Lord who commissioned them. - Expressed thankfulness opens doors for further grace; silence or ingratitude invites discipline. |
    |