How to avoid arrogance like Nabal's?
In what ways can we guard against Nabal's arrogance in our daily lives?

Setting the Scene

“About ten days later, the LORD struck Nabal dead.” (1 Samuel 25:38)

Nabal’s story ends abruptly, but his attitude of proud self-sufficiency is repeated daily whenever we trust ourselves more than God. The aim is not merely to avoid Nabal’s fate; it is to walk in a humility that welcomes God’s favor.


Recognizing the Roots of Nabal-like Arrogance

• Self-importance: Nabal “was harsh and evil in his dealings” (v. 3) because he measured everything by what benefited him.

• Dismissive speech: “Who is David? … Shall I take my bread…?” (v. 10-11). Words revealed a heart closed to others.

• Willful deafness: He ignored the wise appeal of his servants (v. 14-17) and Abigail (v. 23-31).

• False security: A feast “like that of a king” (v. 36) convinced him he was untouchable, yet God’s judgment came swiftly.


Practical Guardrails for Today

1. Cultivate humble remembrance

Deuteronomy 8:17-18—“You might say in your heart, ‘The power and strength of my hands have made this wealth for me,’ but remember the LORD your God…”

• Keep a running record of answered prayers and unearned blessings; review it to reset perspective.

2. Listen before you speak

Proverbs 18:13—“He who answers before he hears—it is folly and shame to him.”

• Pause conversations long enough to hear counsel from family, friends, and Scripture; arrogance withers when we truly listen.

3. Practice generous stewardship

1 Timothy 6:18—“Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, generous…”

• Schedule regular giving—money, hospitality, time—so selfish reflexes never get the last word.

4. Keep short accounts with God and people

Psalm 139:23-24—invite God to “search me… and lead me…”

• Confess pride quickly; reconcile with anyone you’ve belittled. Nabal never apologized—do the opposite within twenty-four hours of conviction.

5. Surround yourself with truth-tellers

Proverbs 27:6—“Faithful are the wounds of a friend.”

• Ask one trusted believer to alert you whenever your words sound dismissive or self-exalting.

6. Speak gratitude aloud

1 Thessalonians 5:18—“Give thanks in every circumstance…”

• Voice three specific thank-you’s each day—one to God, one to a person, one about a circumstance. Gratitude dethrones arrogance.

7. Serve in hidden places

Philippians 2:3—“In humility consider others more important than yourselves.”

• Volunteer where no spotlight exists—nursery duty, cleaning teams, anonymous gifts. Lost applause equals gained humility.

8. Fix your eyes on the ultimate Judge

James 4:6—“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”

• Remember that authority, success, and even breath are borrowed. The swift judgment on Nabal proves God’s active governance.


Living the Contrast

Abigail’s humble appeal spared lives (v. 32-35); Nabal’s arrogance cost his own. Every day we choose which example sets our tone. By rehearsing God’s goodness, listening well, and serving quietly, we build a life arrogance cannot occupy—and invite the Lord’s favor that never fails.

How does 1 Samuel 25:38 connect to Proverbs 16:18 on pride and downfall?
Top of Page
Top of Page