May 6

In 1 Samuel 25, we meet Abigail — a woman of extraordinary wisdom and courage. Her husband, Nabal, responds to David’s kindness with foolishness and insult. In anger, David prepares to strike back, but Abigail intervenes with humility, generosity, and godly wisdom. She says to David, "The LORD will certainly make my lord a lasting dynasty, because you fight the LORD’s battles." (1 Samuel 25:28) Her words remind David of God's promises and help prevent him from acting rashly. Abigail teaches us that one person's faithful courage can turn hearts, avert disaster, and align situations back under God's will.

1 Chronicles 7 lists the descendants of the tribes of Israel, emphasizing the strength and legacy of God's people. These genealogies remind us that God’s plan unfolds over generations, and faithfulness now can bless those who come after us. Every name matters because every life matters to God. You are part of a much bigger story than just your own.

In Acts 17, Paul preaches boldly in Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens. At Mars Hill, he stands before the intellectual elite and speaks about the "unknown god" they worship without knowing: "The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands." (Acts 17:24) Paul shows us that courage and wisdom go hand in hand. Like Abigail, he speaks with truth and grace, calling people to repentance and to know the living God.

Across these passages, a clear invitation emerges:  Be faithful to God's wisdom, courageous in your influence, and aware that your life is part of His larger story.

Whether it's through calming an angry heart (like Abigail), building generational faithfulness (like Israel's tribes), or boldly proclaiming Christ to a skeptical world (like Paul), you have a role in God's unfolding plan.

To receive daily One Year Bible devotionals directly to your email, sign up here.