How does Nabal's attitude in 1 Samuel 25:11 challenge our view of stewardship? Setting the Scene 1 Samuel 25:11: “Why should I take my bread and water and the meat I have slaughtered for my shearers and give it to these men whose origin I do not know?” Nabal’s Heart on Display • Five first-person pronouns in a single sentence—“my bread,” “my water,” “the meat I have slaughtered,” “my shearers.” • No mention of the LORD who provided the flock, the servants, or the prosperity. • A reflexive dismissal of David’s need: “these men whose origin I do not know.” • Result: a household placed under threat until Abigail intervenes, and later Nabal’s sudden death (vv. 37-38). Stewardship Principles Exposed 1. Ownership vs. Management • Psalm 24:1 — “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof.” • Nabal speaks as owner; Scripture calls us managers of what is God’s. 2. Source of Prosperity • Deuteronomy 8:17-18 — “You might say in your heart, ‘My power…’ but remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you the power to gain wealth.” • Nabal credits only himself; faithful stewards credit God. 3. Purpose of Resources • 1 Timothy 6:17-19 — riches are “to do good, to be rich in good works, generous.” • Nabal hoards; biblical stewardship channels resources toward kingdom usefulness. 4. Accountability • 1 Corinthians 4:2 — “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” • Nabal faces divine judgment; faithful stewards anticipate divine reward. Lessons for Modern Believers • Guard against possessive language that betrays a possessive heart. • Remember every paycheck, possession, and opportunity comes from God’s hand. • View needs around you—especially among God’s people—as invitations to steward well. • Practice open-handed generosity; it reflects trust in God rather than in assets. • Sobering truth: mismanagement and hardheartedness carry consequences, while faithful stewardship brings the smile of the Master (Matthew 25:21). |
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