Wednesday, January 26, 2011

The Choice

Welcome. You may have read my devotion about Abigail this morning - that's what I'm elaborating on here.

When I first came to Christ, I found a small "mom & pop owned" Christian bookstore not far around the corner from my house. It had been there all along, but I'd never known quite what it was. Its name, Fishers of Men, sounded like a seafood market which was odd, I thought, for a city in the mountains.



Once I understood the name's reference, I spent a lot of time and money in that shop, reading nearly every book they had. One was called All the Women of the Bible. It was a reference book of sorts, listing out each biblical woman, telling the meaning of her name and the highlights of her story. I was very taken by the story of Abigail.

Fresh off a liberal arts, state college education with plenty of steeping in feminist thought, I couldn't believe how she acted. I wasn't so impressed with how nice Abigail was, but that she was ABLE to be that nice to that man in those circumstances. I was pretty sure I couldn't have acted like Abby did had I wanted to. And, for the record, I didn't want to. I wanted her to clobber her no-good husband Nabal!

And yet I was impressed that she didn't. How could she not?

My tendency back then, and sometimes even now, is to withhold love, help, forgiveness or grace unless or until the other person deserves it. And that's a choice.

Abigail's life teaches me that I can be the kind of person - woman, wife, mother, daughter, friend - that God calls me to be despite how others around me behave. I can be who I want to be, even if that lets them off the hook in some way.

Did Nabal benefit from Abby's goodness without being deserving of those benefits? Yes. But isn't God often good to us without our deserving it? And isn't God deserving of our obedience to be kind and to love our neighbors and enemies, even if those neighbors and enemies are jerks? Yes.

And here's another one to consider, don't we deserve to be women of virtue despite how others choose to see us or treat us?

Yes.

Yes, we deserve to lead God-honoring, bless-worthy lives regardless of our circumstances, income level, marriage status, physical flaws, lack of stable upbringing or anything else. We can make Abigail's choice to live well. And that's what I'm seeking to do.

Who or what helps you live well?

Leave a comment and you'll be entered to win Friday's drawing for copy of the book It's No Secret: Revealing Divine Truths Every Woman Should Know.

Choose well today!

130 comments:

  1. This is a wonderful post. I am trying to be like her too but some days it is so difficult. We are all sinners but don't we some times act like we are better than others? Thank you for reminding me and the book about Biblical women sounds good. I think I may have to look that up! Have a blessed day!

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  2. Woke up middle of the night and couldn't get back to sleep. Read the "encouragement for today". It was written for me today! :-). Wow!
    My "Nabal" is not my husband who will be home from Afghanistan in a few weeks! I actually forwarded it on to him as he has been my rock that I have vented to on more than one occasion!! I made sure he knew that the part I was focused on was the "Abigail" part!! Haha!!
    I do so want to be more like Abigail and have failed miserably in a situation here, but see so clearly what I have been missing! Prayer and action that chooses character! Thank you for allowing Christ to speak through you!!

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  3. I wonder if Abigail had a woman in her life that she confided in...someone older, her mother maybe, a older friend?? I have found that when life doesn't seem fair and my circumstance are spinning out of my control it helps to look at the wonderful examples of faith that God was placed in my life. Women that have endured much and kept the faith.... in their difficult marriages, in their relationships with their prodical children, etc. One even has showed me how to go through a fatal disease and still hold on to Jesus through all the pain... she now rests in his arms!!! I, too, have loved the story of Abigail but God has blessed me with many Abigails in my life that have given me much to emulate!!! I am so thankful!!He is good!

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  4. caroline jacksonJanuary 26, 2011

    Thank you for this post. What a gift to me! (I have wanted to write my story using another name ... Abigail was the first name I chose.) My father (who is my abuser ... incest) is 102 and in assisted living near my home. I have forgiven him, totally. But, I find that it horrifying and so difficult to express loving ...now in his advanced Alzheimer's condition (abusive language, hollering at the aides, rude to me and asking me to stay in his bed so he can poke me). I must love in small ways: talking to him even though he knows not what I say and cannot express himself now; cleaning up excrement left all over his room; making cookies with the grand-girls at my home to bring to him and our frineds in his "home". Thank you, Abba Father for gving me Rachel this morning ... I can go today to visit my earthly father with my Abba Father God at my side. caroline

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  5. Thank you for the great devotion this morning! So many times the "smaller characters" of the Bible get forgotten about. I grew up in Christian family, went to a mega church and even went to a Christian school and college and yet have never heard about Abigail's story. Thank you for bringing her to my attention. So much can be learned from her!

    retrogalusa@aol.com

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  6. Thank you for presenting Abigail's story to us. There are so many of us who can benefit from studying her story. I can't wait to dig into the scriptures later today and learn more about her. - Mary

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  7. You have inspired me afresh today to go higher in my character and relationships. Abigail has been one of my favorite women of the Bible, and you've made a few points today that I hadn't thought on. Thank you for sharing your insights.

    Deb F.

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  8. Thank for this post. If is difficult to choose to act better than someone deserves-but that is what Christ did for us. He loves us even when we least deserve it. No one said it would be easy, but if we desire to be like Christ we must extend His love, mercy, and grace to even the most difficult people.

    Blessings,
    Kendra
    www.abusywomanslife.com

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  9. Thanks for such a great devotional and blig post today. I had never read about Abigail and Nabal. Definitely spoke to my heart this morning. Have a blessed rest of the week!

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  10. Wow! Thank you, thank you, thank you! God has used you in a mighty way today and I want to make sure you know that!! I have been following your blog for some time now and comment now and then, but today I needed you to know how timely this was! I am a believer and my husband is not, and unfortunately my husband's personality sometimes reflects that of Nabal's more than I'd like...however I am no Abigail! I complain and wish for different circumstances a whole lot more than I pray and speak with blessing. My husband deserves a "Prov 31 Woman" regardless of his beliefs or the way he chooses to live his life. My attitude should never be defined by someone else's actions. Imagine if our God changed his attitude and dealings with us based on each of our choices...scary! I want to be a blessing and a reflection of my Savior! Thank you for your devotional today and your blog everyday! You are truly a blessing to me!!

    Thank You!
    Angel

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  11. Picking up my cross and taking Him with me every where I go. I just imagine Him sitting, standing, or walking with me. Yes, I look like a crazy person talking to Him, but I don't care. :)

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  12. Thank you for your encouraging, enlightening post. Now Abigail is a life to try an imulate. What sinners we are and how I often fall short and enter into a "pity party". Your word was laid on my lap today for a reason and it gives me hope, desire and encouragement. Thank you, i really look forward to your posts! Love your site!
    Blessings from snowy Maryland!
    kareng

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  13. What a wonderful look at this amazing woman! I loved what you said at the very end of your devotional: "choosing humility and wisdom allows God to shape my character and my circumstances". So many times we want God to shape our character but our pride and lack of wisdom will not allow him to do so.
    Funny thing, today I posted something in my blog about a book on Biblical women by Liz Curtis Higgs.
    Have a blessed day!

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  14. Thank you for showing me the example that Abigail is for all of us women. I was married to a man who suffered with bipolar disorder and eventually took his own life. My daughter and I found him. As I look back at that time, I am not so sure that I was as gracious and forgiving and loving as Abigail was. I have many regrets and wishes for how I could have handled things better. But God was faithful to me through that time and has continued to be faithful. He brought into my life many wise and godly women who have helped me along the way. Now I have been blessed with a new husband and a son. My pastor had prophesied at my late husband's funeral that what the locust had eaten would be restored and certainly it has. Now I am working to be a better wife than I was the first time around and to learn from my mistakes. I am seeking to use what those wise and godly women from my past and present have shared with me. Your post has encouraged me even more to put on patience, faithfulness, forgiveness, love and graciousness. God is good!

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  15. My children's caregiver has inspired me since I met her years ago. This Christian woman knows the answer to any question is to go to the Bible and to pray. Her grace upon my life was a beautiful thing. She was unfluttered by children's nonsense and is a very loving person. God has done a beautiful work in her life. I am better for knowing her. mheard11@frontier.com

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  16. Just the day I needed to hear this because I am living with a Nabal and I was saying yes, that's him, yes, that too. Then when it came to the description and verses for Abigail I could not say it described me. No, I've become bitter, angry, and even argumentative back. I need to take a hard look at myself and give it over to the Lord once and for all.
    Thanks for the insight.

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  17. Thanks for sharing about Abigail today. It comes at the 'right' time for me and my marriage. My husband is NO where close to her's and I am no where close to Abigail's example. I will be studying this furnther. Praise the Lord!

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  18. I love how the Lord lays His word in front of me-like a gift on a tray- just when I need to hear them so desperately. I am moved by this devo & thankful for the work you do in sharing to all of us.Humble & courageous almost sound like oxymorins(sp?), but they will be my focus in the situation I am in. God bless you!

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  19. Thank you so much for your devotion and blog post. What a wonderful reminder to be the best we can be at all times. Thanks.

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  20. Good insights on Abigail. My main take away is: "My circumstances do not control my character — I do." It's so easy to blame our circumstances or someone else for our reactions, attitude, etc. while in truth the Power of Christ dwells in me - if I CHOOSE to humbly call upon Him. Thanks for the good reminders to do so. I have a dear friend who now lives in Thailand ministering to cross cultural workers through counseling and debriefing, but she continues to be my accountability partner - we met often through the wonderful technology of Skype and she won't let me get away with whining and blaming, always turning me back to seeking Christ's presence and power.

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  21. love this.. I am going to read more about her .. I love that Gods gives us such Godly examples to live by.. Its so like God isnt it to show us that through ourselves we can do nothing but through Him we can do and be anything that He wants us to be..thank you for this reminder!!

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  22. Thank you for sharing this today. Just what I needed to "hear" this morning. Love how the Lord does that.:) I have a couple of relationships right now that I really have to work on responding with a right attitude from my end. Wow, is that hard. Thank you again. How I needed this right now!

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  23. I really enjoyed your devotional this morning. I had never really given Abigail much thought, except to realize she was a smart woman.

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  24. Thank you Rachel for a devotional that was targeted right for my heart. I must confess that I was unaware of Abigail's story in the Bible. I know that God is revealing it to me at just the right time. As I sit here with tears in my eyes due to actions from my husband. I pray for God's strength to follow the path he is showing me.

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  25. Thank you so much as this comes at a most opportune time for me. My husband has selfish tendencies and I am dealing with one I just cannot get past. It is shaping me and my attitude in that my first reaction to anything is I just don't care anymore. I'm not nearly as gracious as Abigail, but I will continue to pray for my husband daily and realize that what he does or does not do should not influence how I feel or look at other things in life.

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  26. Rachel, thank you for reminding us of Abigail. Iam so thankful for the many "abigails" in my life who have been great mentors and helped me thru difficult times. Thanks also for this opportunity to win your book. I truly do want to read it.
    Have a super great day
    LindaAnn

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  27. Thank you for such a wonderful devotional today. So nice to have the reminder that others don't need to affect us in a negative way. After reading about Nabal, my husband looks almost perfect, so I'm without excuse!

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  28. I too have always loved Abigail so much so that I named my daughter Abigail. I've always admired the way she held herself and how she acted especially for those times when women were not considered to have any status at all. I want my daughter to have the same virtues, values and morals and Abigail did and to stand up when no one else will.

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  29. Thank you for this devotion. I'm learning to just let go and let God work through me. Humbleness doesn't come to me naturally so I'm very grateful that my God can do anything! :-)

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  30. Thank you for the great devotional!

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  31. What a wonderful reminder of how I should act. Thank you!

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  32. Thanks for the thoughts on Abigail and Nabal(what a contrast!). I'm so thankful for all the Abigail's in my life. I'm reminded this morning of Psalm 111:10, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
    To him belongs eternal praise."

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  33. Thank you for the great devotion this morning.

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  34. I admire how Abigail used what was ON hand to solve the problem AT hand. I mean, who has 200 loaves of bread laying around?! New Testament women did the same thing by "...contributing their own resources to support Jesus and his disciples" (Luke 8:3). What do I have ON hand to help Jesus today?

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  35. Christina (beckcg@gmail.com)January 26, 2011

    Oh what a blessing this blog is to me this morning!! I read "Encouragement for Today" when I come into work in the mornings- its the first thing I do. And this last year has been a rollercoaster of emtotions because my "Nabal" is my job and my boss. I have such a difficult time being humble, kind, and loving to several people in my office and often feel slighted. I would LOVE to read a copy of your book. I could use a little wisdom right now as I step out in faith that God has me here for a purpose, day by day.

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  36. Perfect timing for me to read this post today. This story is way to close to home.

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  37. Proverbs 31 helps me to live right. It is an encouragement to me and convicts me of my wrongs and how I am to live my life. I read it daily! Thank-you for your ministry!

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  38. Thank you for highlighting Abigail's story. Its not one that I am familiar with but I think I can learn much from her in terms of dealing with struggles in my own marriage.

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  39. This post really hit home. I struggle to be more like Abigal in my everyday life. My husband is a wonderful man so in this aspect I do not relate but in all that she exudes I wish to immulate. It is shinning that attitude or blessings on to others that not only positively affects them but postitively affects us. Blessings!

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  40. Thank you for the post. I will have to reread Abigail's story now. I do have a question...where is the line between being like her and being taken advantage of? How do you become like this without letting yoursel disappear into nothing?

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  41. This was such a wonderful post and I so needed this devotion this morning. As many times I have read stories in the bible, I never knew about the story of Abigail. Thanks for sharing such great insight. I am praying that I can have the heart of Abigail. That no matter what I look at the situations and circumstances with eyes like Abigail.

    Melissa

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  42. It was extremely hard for me to not think if I chose to be this way, that I would look more like a door-mat. However, when I put the perspective of God in play along with the humility, then I can see a whole new shape taking place and far from a door-mat. I'm in a situation myself that causes me to question what I might appear to others. 'Why won't she just move on?', 'Look how he has treated you and the boys!', 'He doesn't want you, if he did, he would be here.', 'You need to break free and get on with your life for the sake of you and your boys.' - I mean the list just keeps growing. So for me, this story hit home. And I have to tell you, I was a door-mat until Jesus raised me up to my heavenly Father and through His love He is showing me things. The end of the story has not been written yet and I struggle still yet with the choices, but I pray everyday for the strength to truly have God's way and will in it all. Thank you for your post this morning and may God richly bless your for your service to Him.

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  43. Just read the encouragement for today about Abigail and Nabal...how she managed not to get depressed or leave him is almost beyond me. I left my "Nabal" a year ago, and he continues to be abusive despite my learning to walk as a woman of Christ. It is not easy as I was depressed for so long but it is getting easier. I sure could use some more insight on this woman. Thanks for the wakeup call!

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  44. Wow - you spoke right to a situation I am dealing with at work! Today I will focus on Abby and the way she handled her situation, and pray that I can be a blessing to others.

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  45. Thank you for the inspiring devotional about Abigail. It is a blessing how she was able to cope with Nagel's ungodliness, and she is one of my favorite people too.

    I really enjoy your devotionals and look forward to the scriptures guiding my life.

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  46. Wow, talk about grace. I would like to have 1/2 of Abigails patience. Thanks for the awesome post. This is my first time to your website. I am looking forward to reading more.
    Blessings,
    Lois

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  47. As always, God's timing is amazing. I'm really working on trusting God and not my work, situation or ability and not letting others actions hinder me from doing the right thing before GOd. Thank you.

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  48. One of the things that helps me live well is the Proverbs 31 ministry. I live in a remote area and many time my counsel from others come in the cyber world. I find encouragement and comfort in the devotionals and the comments of all the sweet sisters in Christ as we all journey toward heaven

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  49. Thank-you so much for your devotion this morning. I added many of your words to my journal in hopes that I will humble myself enough to become more and more like Abigail. Especially how she "holds her tongue" and waits... (what is that?)

    In Jesus' Name we pray, Have a fantastic day and God Bless!

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  50. Thank you Rachel for allowing The LORD to use you to minister to me and to so many. I always love reading your devotions!!! The words you wrote this morning made Abigail's story come alive in ways I never knew. I so want to be like her, but I have fallen so short. The grace that she showed everyone was truly an example of GOD'S Grace toward her. Bless you for being the Beautiful Woman that GOD has created you to be!!!

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  51. Wow - straight to the heart! I struggle with this all the time. Letting others "off the hook for bad behavior" is difficult and in some ways feels like the wrong choice. But, if that is the choice I make, am I not doing exactly the same thing? At times, the perspective is difficult to maintain. Thank you for giving me some great perspective this morning! Many Blessings to you!

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  52. I am looking forward to opening up the Bible to read up on some of Abigail's characteristics. Very helpful devotional, so thank you.

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  53. Thank you for the challenge to choose wisely - we do have a choice to be shaped by the truth of the Bible and our Savior Jesus.

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  54. We were talking about names as a good friend is pregnant with a precious little girl and one of the names she chose as a maybe was Abigail. At lunch I expressed to some friends (not to the pregnant mom to be) that I didn't much care for that name. It conjured up like 17th & 18th century washer woman in my mind. This post blessed me in so many ways, one that she with stood all the negatives to turn her eye toward God and choose wisely, tells me she must have had a good prayer life. I learned hers was a very important and longest speech for a woman in the Bible and last of all I fell in love with the name Abigail. Thank you for this post, it minstered to me in soooo many ways!!! Be Blessed as we are by you.

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  55. This post is so timely. My daughter, a senior in high school, is having coffee this morning with a girl who is supposed to be her BFF, to resolve a major conflict. The BFF said via text messages some very cruel words. She now wants to retract what she said but the wounds are still so raw my daughter is struggling to move forward. I was praying for the girls when I read your post. I wish I could get it over to Starbucks so they could read it before they meet! My prayer now is that when they read it this afternoon that they will be able to say "we were Abigails".

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  56. Rachel, thank you for posting about Abigail. Her name in Hebrew means "Father's joy"! There is no doubt in my mind where her true joy came from! With so many negatives in the world, Abigail's true devotion was evident, and the KING recognized it and married her! WOW! Your devo for today from Proverbs31 Ministry was much needed! It was a reminder to keep trusting God. Look forward to receiving more from you! Be blessed sister!

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  58. "Churched" all my life, I have never heard the story of Abagail. What an amazing woman -- definitely her faith and outlook on life is something to strive toward. I am off to the bookstore today to find All the Women of the Bible. I will surely discover more women of God that are new to me and who have lessons to share. Thank you!

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  59. Thanks for the words of encouragement, and a reminder of a women God used to show us we can as women of today be Christ like in all we do. I do not have a husband that is tough to live with but I know for myself I have ladies in my life who are christian women who are tough to be friends with. That truly living for Christ is more than a title, its a way of life. Thanks reminding me of Abigail's true Godly character and as a women, not allowing my circumstance dictate my character. Melissa

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  60. Thank you Rachel for sharing this story with us. It realy makes you stop and think "if" I could be so strong in a situation like that. I doubt I would be! I'd give up and look for greener pastures! Thank you for reminding me that, "Abigail's life teaches me that I can be the kind of person - woman, wife, mother, daughter, friend - that God calls me to be despite how others around me behave." Bottom line - there are no excuses not to be the person God wants us to be.

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  61. This morning I was really in need of hearing some encouragement and read the "devotion for today" and as God is so good, through your story about Abigail in 1Sa25 I was reminded that it is my choice to be who God wants me to be by obeying him. Like you said in the post it was not that Abby was nice but that she was able to be nice. More times than I like, I let situations get the best of me, rather than facing them knowing how God wants me to deal with them. Thanks for your godly words of encouragement and reminder of who I can be.

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  62. Thank you for your wonderful devotion today. I desire to be more like Abigail today and everyday.

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  63. Thank you for the insight into Abigail! I have had someone say I am like Abigail with the way I deal with things. My husband does not make it easy.
    Thanks also for the encouragement to stay strong in the LORD!

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  64. I want to thankyou so much for sharing Abigails story. As I try to live my life daily in this manner and get a lot of grief from my family saying that I am to nice. Especially to my ex husband. I look at it that I can only account for my own actions and will have to answer for them. God will take care of him in his timing not mine. Even though at times I wish it was sooner than later. Thanks so much for sharing, Annetta

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  65. Renee--Wonderful devotion.I am going to read the story of Abigal in the bible. Thanks for letting us know about the book about Biblical women, I am going to look it up. God Bless You.

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  66. Sounds like Abigail is a Proverbs 31 woman!!! My dad was the "Nabel" in my family, but my mother wasn't so being the Abigail but she kept us together. I am so thankful I married a godly man who is the opposite of my dad...God has blessed me - I am so thankful too that Proverbs 31 women and Abigail can "teach" me to be the woman I long to be.

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  67. Wow..Is all I can say your devotion on abigail could not have come at a better time...Being like Abigail I am married to an unbeliever so at times like you mentioned it is tough to continue to do what is right when you feel that they don't deserve it and that as a women i "deserve" the honor as a weaker spouse that is described by peter in 1 peter 3:7. But you are so right that God loves us and loves us unconditionally and nothing we do actually "deserves" his love he just loves us!..Jesus is my rock he alone is what helps me do well. Because too often it is easy to be lead by flesh and listen to the lies of satan..and choose not to demonstrate characteristics of abigail, putting God first every day, praying for him to reveal things in me that need change, and asking him for help to be able to completely surrender my marriage to him has helped me do well. It is because of his unconditional love that I am still married and believing that some day My husband will be saved!

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  68. Loved this devotion!

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  69. This is a beautiful post. Lord I pray that I will be an Abigail to my future husband. In the meantime teach me humility and wisdom and exude the character and traits of Abigail.

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  70. I long to be more like Abigail but fail often. It is wonderful knowing in the midst of those failures, I can stop and ask God for help and work toward my goal!

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  71. Thankfully, my husband is the one who helps me to live well. He is a wonderful spiritual leader. Thank you for the reminder that living well is a choice!

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  72. So happy to come across your blog. Women like you who love the Lord and share their experiences help me to stay on track. I hope to win a copy of your book. Have a blessed day.

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  73. What a wonderful ideal to strive for, as Christian women. Some of the comments today bring tears and sorrow, but also joy for the women who recognize their Abba, Father, even in their struggles. Blessings to each of you today!

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  74. I've never really read the story of Abigail but I will go do so now. Thanks for sharing with us!
    So often I am tempted to do things my old selfish way, to only look out for #1. But the Word of God and the Holy Spirit keep on teaching, guiding and changing me...without the Father's help, there would be nothing good in me.

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  75. Abigail is also one of my favorite people in the bible...so much to learn from her. Keeping in The Word, reading good and inspiring thngs like your blog and others, having godly friends, helps me to stay on the right path (not that I am always there). Thank you for sharing today. Sue R.

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  76. Having walked in Abigail's shoes, I found this story to be SO refreshing. We look around and ask ourselves, "why are we staying in situations that are so painful?" It doesn't make sense from a worldly view which only adds to our pain and confusion. I have found that TRUSTing God and seeking HIM and living humbly works - AND is not easy. I am so grateful to God that HE shares real stories with us of real people with real dysfunctional lives. I think His purpose for us is healing and growth - this often happens not when things are swimming along wonderfully but when things are difficult and we need Him.

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  77. The post is so my life right now. I so have a Nabal in my life who walked out on his family and withholds money, such conviction when you know you are with holding forgiveness, to know this is a choice and God forgives me freely is a struggle! will be reading Abigail's story today and letting Gods message sink deep.

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  78. Thank you for your post today. I have been battling frustration,anxiety and depression lately and after a moment of tears and prayer I remembered I had the encouragement for today and..perfect. Praise the Lord, sometimes he uses email to speak to our heart!!

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  79. This post came right on time for me and it hits so close to home. I can say I am not an Abigail, but I'm changing. Thank you for this devotion.

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  80. Oh to be a woman like Abigail! However, we have can be like Abigail with God's help and our willingness to allow his guidance in our lives.
    My mom is a wonderful example of a Proverbs 31 woman & I have learned so much by her example and advice. I also thank God for his Word & for listening to my prayers. Without God in my life I could never be the wife & mother I am now. Not that I am by all means perfect, only striving to be all that God wants me to be.
    I thank God everyday for the joy of marriage & the gift of children!
    Have a wonderful day!

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  81. And who was more blessed --- David for receiveing such a wonderful gift from God in Abigail, or Abigail becoming the wife of the King???? To think that she would be remembered forever in the Scriptures for these Godly characteristics and not for her beauty, her cooking, or her successes in business!!!! May I, with God's help, grow in all these areas!!!! Thank you so much for this character study today!!!!

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  82. Hi Carol, you asked "Where is the line between being like Abigail and being taken advantage of? And, how do you become like this without letting yourself disappear into nothing?"

    I encourage you to pray those questions to God and then read her story in the Bible. She did not disappear - in fact, she stood out. Maybe she disappeared in Nabal's eyes, but not in the servants' eyes, or in David's eyes, or in God's eyes.

    She was strong, wise and courageous as well as kind. She was not a doormat but an active reflection of Christ and His power.

    May you and I find our way into that possibility, and dwell happily there.

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  83. Wow--thanks for the devotion and post it was very convicting. I have a long ways to grow and my husband is not a "Nabal"!

    jroba5@yahoo.com

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  84. I enjoyed reading your devotinoal about Abigail. It was a nice reminder to not focus on how others behave but rather on how I behave and how God wants me to treat and react to others. I am going to look for the book about Biblical women at my library as well. Thanks!

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  85. As I was reading this devotion I was reminded of a time in my marriage where God called me to respond as Abigail did... with great Grace. Sadly, I hoped the outcome would be similar to hers where God would take care of the 1st husband and bring me Prince Charming instead. Now looking back I realized I had missed God's point... to be gracious to my husband regardless of how He treated me. Today... my husband is different. He's not the mean, grouchy man he used to be and even though he may not be my idea of Prince Charming... he has stuck by my side through thick and thin and I am happy and feel totally blessed that God has kept us together.

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  86. God is so good!This post/devotion couldn't have been sent at a more perfect time. Living a life like Abigail is not easy with a husband like that...my life. Great encouragement and makes me want to press on to the greater things God has for me and to keep the faith. What a blessing this is to me and my friend dealing with same issues. Lord thank you for strength and wisdom!

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  87. Thank you, I enjoyed Abigail's story and your insight into her story. I'm going to go out a look for the book "Women of the Bible".

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  88. Thank you for your always-encouraging words! Love your blog.

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  89. Thank you SO much for this post today! I feel I am dealing with my own Nabal as my husband and I can say for certain that I have not responded in a very "Abigail" way. I pray that God changes my heart and that I can respond to him in a better manner.
    Krystal D

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  90. CHOICES ~ My day is full of them from the moment my eyes blink open each morning. I love the challenge Abigail's story gives me. Her choices to do what was right in spite of her circumstances is admirable and noteworthy. May I learn from her example and follow. Thanks for this devotion today. It has given me some food for thought.

    Girls, you don't want to miss the opportunity to win Rachel's book! Just finished it! It's full of rich truth!

    Sweet Blessings,
    Pam

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  91. Thanks for your post! My Sunday school class recently did a study on the Proverbs 31 woman and Abigail was brought up as an example of this ideal woman. Oh, that I could approach situations in my life with the grace and wisdom that she did. Only with God's help can I even come close!

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  92. Hey Rachel! Was so blessed to read this today! This is such an invaluable lesson and I so much wish that I would allow God to make me more of what he predestined me to be.
    I share her name and I want to share her heart too!

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  93. I have always loved the story of Abigail. I wish for the good sense and love she shared with others. My husband is a man oc God - nothing like Nabal but still there are times when I need to just love him and let it go. What a beautiful reminder. Thanks for another wonderful post.

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  94. I have just discovered Abigail. It is one of the names we are considering for our upcoming baby (if she's a girl!) and reading your devotion today just makes me fall in love with the name more and more. Thank you for these inspiring words and for helping me learn more about this inspiring woman.

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  95. Sylvia ArriagaJanuary 26, 2011

    My name is Sylvia Arriaga. Last night my 2 year old son Gabriel told me that his daddy (who left us in September and wants a divorce) loves an Abigail. I was shocked and said no gabriel you mean he loves Abby Caddaby from Sesame Street. He was clear.. No momma... Daddy loves Abigail! I talked to his father and his father said, I have no idea what he is talking about I don't know any Abigail. I was shocked and hurt to say the least, but I gave it to God and asked for revelation and peace. This morning I opened my email to see your devotional that I just signed up for and the first to receive. IT was your story: Abigail!!!! WOW!!!
    Thank you and God Bless

    Sylvia from El Paso, Texas

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  96. Rachel,
    This devotional hits home with me too. My husband of 30 years is my Nabal. Things are really not good at our house now. They have been worse. I am completely drained. My Savior holds me up every day. It's the only explanation I have for how I'm still functioning. I have spent 30 passive years of letting him tell me who and what I should be and I have actually tried to do what he says. Oh it's such a long story (30 years worth) I don't think I can even tell it. Anyway, I had forgotten about Abigail and can't wait to read about her again tonight. I really need help. Please pray for me. I'm asking God to tell me what to do. I must believe that He will.

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  97. Thank you, Rachel, for sharing this message today. The Lord works in mysterious ways. I really needed to hear this today. I do not live with a man like Nabel, but someone who is very dear to me does. I need to be more like Abigail in many areas of my life.

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  98. It is wonderful to read about Abigal as a woman who was humble, wise and a lover of God. I am sure she was overwhelmed at times with her circumstances. She chose to focus on God as her deliverer and wisdom to gain victory in her everyday life. This is my goal to have Christ abide in me in such a way that I can live by Him out in all my circumstances, good or bad. Thank you for your insights.
    Love, Kathy at hp7285kat@sbcglobal.net

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  99. Abigail was an amazing woman!

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  100. Our 3 sons one doesn't go to church at all and the others two go and are Deasons but they way they treat us ,wifes and kids is not good. They don't hit them but the put downs like our youngest son his wife works 2 jobs because they cut his hours back and he has another job also. He never picks up a dirty dish, laundry,clean at all. He speaks to the 17 year old daughter like she does everything wrong to him not all the time.She tries to make the kids pick up and keep their room cleans and bathroom clean. She wasn't taught to clean and cook and it's a mess all the time but the kids in town go to their house so it doesn't bother them.They have good days, he does not like her family but never keeps her away from them,and they come to their home also and they are different.When she is around any of her family she never realize tell I pointed it out to her she doesn't really talk to us when they are around.she changed that. Bless her heart. She and I talk alot of what he has done she left one night with their first child and thought I have know where to go.She knew after she told me what happen she could come to us. I've lived with the boys Dad 47 years and it hasn't been a bed of roses and in the year 2000 I got deathly ill and had to call my oldest son it took him 30 minutes because they were cooking breakfast for some friends.Well I got hold of my husband and I am a diabetic I was a new one only had it for a few months. I was throwing up and my side and back was hurting and I was dehydrated. Well this was at 10:00 AM and I was between Doctors because mind moved.The ER Dr. was very good the nurses were terrible like having a party they started a IV on me and I took one unit and never peed so he told the Nurses to catheterize me. No they did not and it was a busy ER.They were eating Pizza when he came and saw me again and he asked if they had catheterizes me. My husband was so mad because the Nurses were so loud.He said NO they are having a late lunch.Well the Dr. YELLED AND SAID GET IN HERE AND DO WHAT I TOLD YOU TO DO. They did and when the urine hit the bag it was as black as a piece of coal.Well my husband is a Dr. of cattle and he said well we know what is wrong. He has changed alot since he almost lost me ,my kidneys shut down. We were married and he drank and would go to bars and gamble never cheated on me but he would flirt with other women.So I have tried to be a good Mother-in-law to our daughters from our sons wifes. I know I have been. We have have 11 grandkids.I want our sons to treat us with respect and love us like we thought we were good parents.They never went to jail or used drugs did drink beer once in awhile. Got grounded. They put their wives down if they look or talk to another man or have taken to long shopping like their Dad.My husband loved my parents and I can't say that abouthis parents the way they treated me and our boys they favored the oldest one so much.I stood up to her when she came in with a gift for our oldest and not our second son nothing. they were 5 and 3 at the time. I wouldn't let him have it all she had to do was bring him some gum he loved to blow bubbles. Well she went home crying and David came home and he agreed with me and he went and told them bring both something for both unless it's their Birthday. He finally stood up for me and her husband was mad at her for doing that also.She didn't speak for several months to me and I didn't care.I took care of her in the hospital dying of cancer for 7 weeks, 24 /7 She never Thanked me or every said she was sorry for the way she treated me and her husband and David's brother. I could write a book but I've done things wrong also and always ask God Please forgive me Lord for saying that. Thank you My husband quit drinking over 35 years ago.

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  101. I really enjoyed your Abigail post this morning. I have the Proverbs 31 devotion delivered to my inbox, and I almost overlooked it today... so glad I didn't.

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  102. "Churched" all my life, I have never heard the Story of Abagail. What an amazing woman -- definitely her faith and outlook on life is something to strive toward. I am off to the bookstore today to find All the Women of the Bible. I will surely discover more women of God that are new to me and who have lessons to share. Thank you!

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  103. Thank you for this devotional. Abigail has always been one of my favorites as well.

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  104. Thank you so much for this post. I am married to a Nabal and life is rough for my children and I right this minute. I am trying to allow God to fight this battle for me and to let him show me the answer to this problem. My prayer is to be quiet and sit still and let God handle the rest. Sometimes that is hard to do. It was very encouraging to hear how Abigail handled her situation with Nabal. Thank you!

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  105. Kristin NashJanuary 26, 2011

    What helps me live well is my coworker "Betsabe." God has placed her in my life for her to be a desciple for Him. She assists me on a daily basis with my struggles and reminds me so much of Abigail. She helps me by reminding me that God does not want me to carry everyone else's burdens because I can no longer do that and even begin to live well. I thank God everyday for my great friend and coworker and would love to read more about women in the Bible just like her.

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  106. You said something in your blog today about how people withhold love or forgiveness from someone because that person doesn't deserve it or hasn't earned it. You then pointed out that God loves and forgives us even though we have done nothing to deserve it nor earn it. We keep thinking of ourselves as the vineyard workers who arrived early in the morning and worked all day, but too often we are the workers who arrived late and worked little but get paid just the same. Thanks for the reminder the keep our "greatness" in perspective.

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  107. Loved reading this wonderful post and your encouraging words to be more like Abigail.

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  108. Thanks for the devotion today! I forget about Abigail and it was a nice reminder about her! Very encouraging!

    Beth Gillihan
    rbgillihan@q.com

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  109. Thanks for the encouragement to make the choice to show humility & to ask for godly wisdom in how we react to our circumstances. Abigail set a good example for all of us!

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  110. Leigh EllenJanuary 26, 2011

    Recently I have been trying to remember that as a child of God I should not be focused on how others are treating me, but rather on how I am treating others. This has helped me to keep my thoughts and actions in check.

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  111. I have known several women, in my church, who endured what Abigail did. For some of the women, I know, the Lord honored their sweet,faithful spirits and their husbands came to know the Lord and two are even wonderful ministers, now! I never thought, that, not only did they have an example in the Lord, but, they had an example through Abigail. Thank you for showing a living example that I can use when counseling!

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  112. I really liked the Abigail info. It answered some
    questions I have been praying about. So very timely.
    Thank you!

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  113. Abigail is one hard act to follow. She models how to deal with a less than desirable husband and with great God honoring dignity and grace. There is much to be learned from her example. Thanks for the inspiration!

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  114. Thank you for this devotional!! It was something I needed to hear. I was talking with a friend today about my marriage and how I felt unhappy. But after reading this.. it was just what I needed to hear! Thank you!

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  115. My past mistakes helps me live well as they point me to God's way. I use every day to get to know God in a deeper way. I read the Bible for understanding of what He wants to reveal to me, and receive His grace to be lifted out of every past fault. It is my prayer that you, too, will let His power lift you into life His way. Standing in the faith of God’s promises while we are waiting for God to do something keeps us from acting like the devil ourselves.

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  116. Krista BarneyJanuary 26, 2011

    I so needed to hear this, thank you. I live with a Nabal, though not quite as evil but as ever foolish. It gives me hope to know that my efforts are not in vain, and that God will return to me what the swarming locusts have eaten (Joel 2:25).

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  117. i really enjoyed your devotional. i have a husband who can be very mean with his words and putting others down all the time. i find myself going into his mode at times and i don't want to be like that. he's not very likeable at times. i want to be a loving wife no matter what. this devotional gave me something to really look at and put to use. thank you so much.

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  118. What wonderful thoughts! My faith and hope in my Jesus help me to live well. I want to be the best ambassador I can for Him.

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  119. You have no idea how much I needed to read those words. I had saved the devotional in my inbox and opened it this morning. God's perfect timing, I promise! I am going to read about Abigail this morning in 1 Samuel for myself. It's a story from the Scriptures I don't remember.

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  121. Rachel thank you for letting God use you in a mighty and powerful way thru your blog. Your writings are precious and authentic. At this time in my life I need authenticity. Abigail was a woman of discernment who intervened with words of kindness and truly showed grace in her heart. Too often we want grace shown to us but are not willing to show grace to others. This devotion was a great reminder that “a gentle answer turns away wrath” and that there is freedom in giving grace. Grace to others will multiply your grace from the Living God. This was a great devotion for thru character building. One that will stay with me until God completes what He has started in me.
    Blessings and God’s Grace be with you and your family!

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  122. I've not thought of this story in the Bible for a long time. What a message of Grace!

    I would love to read your book!

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  123. Rachel, Thank you for your wisdom this morning. I am a working mom of 3 small children and one wonderful step-daughter. Some days it's hard to do and say the right thing to help my kids grow in love. I will be reading 1 Samuel tonight ... and probably more than once. I would like to be a good example for my kids and my husband. He is wonderful, but not without fault and I need to be better about lifting up all of his good qualities - it makes a difference when I do. Thanks again, and God bless you.

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  124. Rachel - I love Abigail too!! Amazing example of godly character! I am thankful that you pointed me to her in God's Word today! She points us to Christ!

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  125. What a great post...I can't wait to read Abigail's story for myself with your teaching in mind. Thank you for that. As far as your question, my husband helps me live well. His example is what I hope to follow because he loves without grudges (unlike me) and with a servants attitude (also unlike me). I'm glad you asked, so I can let my husband know how he has such a wonderful influence over me. And, when I listen, the Father also helps me live and love well.

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  126. God reminded of a truth a few years ago. At that time, my daughter (then 14) was diagnosed with a rare disease and had several surgeries to help her. It was a chaotic, confusing and unknowing time. But through it all, God reminded me of this simple yet profound truth: Life changes; God does not. I've held on dearly to that many times since then while struggling with other life challenges. His promises remain true; God is worthy of our praise!

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  127. Yes - the choices we make are so important - whether we choose life and God.

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  128. Elizabeth BJanuary 27, 2011

    I loved this post! Thanks for sharing the story of Abigail. It is perfect timing for me and inspires me to be a better person and respond to difficulties with grace and love.

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  129. Living like Abigail is hard, very hard (probably impossible), if you try to do it in your own strength. If you lean on God's strength then it becomes easy - until someone says how much they admire me for sticking with my alcoholic husband through thick and thin. I have to tell them that it's not me, I can't do it and their admiration is embarrassing.
    PS Thanks for your prayers from the time you did the Women of the Bible series - really helped.

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  130. My husband died 8 yrs ago after our 50 plus yrs of marriage. I then was given a tape of Joyce Meyer and have since found she has saved my life and I now own almost all of her CD's and tapes. She is a daily inspiration to me as I do the treadmill when she is on weekly, and listen to her on my tape recorder in the bathroom. I know God put her in my life, just like Joel Osteen also. Thank you God for my daily blessings and inspirations. JoAnn~~

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