第65章 大卫的度量
§1
第65章 大卫的度量
§2
Chap. 65 - The Magnanimity of David
§3
在扫罗残杀了耶和华的祭司之后，“亚希突的儿子亚希米勒有一个儿子，名叫亚比亚他，逃到大卫那里。亚比亚他将扫罗杀耶和华祭司的事告诉大卫。大卫对亚比亚他说：那日我见以东人多益在那里，就知道他必告诉扫罗；你父的全家丧命，都是因我的缘故。你可以住在我这里，不要惧怕；因为寻索你命的，就是寻索我的命；你在我这里，可得保全。”（见撒上22:20-23；又23-27:）[1]{PP 660.1}
§4
After Sauls atrocious slaughter of the priests of the Lord, one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped, and fled after David. And Abiathar showed David that Saul had slain the Lords priests. And David said unto Abiathar, I knew it that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul: I have occasioned the death of all the persons of thy fathers house. Abide thou with me, fear not: for he that seeketh my life seeketh thy life: but with me thou shalt be in safeguard.{PP 660.1}[1]
§5
大卫正被扫罗王所追逐，所以找不到一个平安稳妥的地方。他那一群勇敢的人救了基伊拉城，免受非利士人的抢掠；但即使在他们所拯救的人中间，他们还是得不到安全的。他们就从基伊拉退到西弗的旷野去了。[2]{PP 660.2}
§6
Still hunted by the king, David found no place of rest or security. At Keilah his brave band saved the town from capture by the Philistines, but they were not safe, even among the people whom they had delivered. From Keilah they repaired to the wilderness of Ziph.{PP 660.2}[2]
§7
这时，正当大卫的前途没有多少光明的时候，约拿单访知他隐匿的地方，就特来探望。这个意想不到的拜访使大卫格外欢迎。这两个朋友见面畅叙别情的时机，真是一刻千金。他们述说自己别后的事，约拿单便坚固大卫的心，说：“不要惧怕；我父扫罗的手，必不加害于你；你必作以色列的王，我也作你的宰相；这事我父扫罗知道了。”他们彼此谈论上帝对待大卫的奇妙作为，这个被追逐的逃亡者得了很大的鼓励。“于是二人在耶和华面前立约；大卫仍住在树林里，约拿单回家去了。”[3]{PP 660.3}
§8
At this time, when there were so few bright spots in the path of David, he was rejoiced to receive an unexpected visit from Jonathan, who had learned the place of his refuge. Precious were the moments which these two friends passed in each others society. They related their varied experiences, and Jonathan strengthened the heart of David, saying, Fear not: for the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my father knoweth. As they talked of the wonderful dealings of God with David, the hunted fugitive was greatly encouraged. And they two made a covenant before the Lord: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house.{PP 660.3}[3]
§9
大卫在约拿单来访后，就用赞美的诗歌勉励自己，他一面唱诗一面弹琴，只听他唱道：“我是投靠耶和华，你们怎么对我说，你当像鸟飞往你的山去？看哪，恶人弯弓，把箭搭在弦上，要在暗中射那心里正直的人。根基若毁坏，义人还能作什么呢？耶和华在他的圣殿里；耶和华的宝座在天上；他的慧眼察看世人。耶和华试验义人，唯有恶人和喜爱强暴的人，他心里恨恶。”（诗11:1-5）[4]{PP 660.4}
§10
After the visit of Jonathan, David encouraged his soul with songs of praise, accompanying his voice with his harp as he sang: In the Lord put I my trust: How say ye to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain? For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, They make ready their arrow upon the string, That they may privily shoot at the upright in heart. If the foundations be destroyed, What can the righteous do? The Lord is in His holy temple, The Lords throne is in heaven: His eyes behold, His eyelids try, the children of men. The Lord trieth the righteous: But the wicked and him that loveth violence His soul hateth.Psalm 11:1-5.{PP 660.4}[4]
§11
大卫从基伊拉来到西弗的旷野时，西弗人到基比亚去见扫罗，说他们知道大卫藏匿的地方，并说他们能引领王到他的躲避之处。可是大卫得知他们的意图，就转移了阵地，到玛云和死海间的山中避难。[5]{PP 661.1}
§12
The Ziphites, into whose wild regions David went from Keilah, sent word to Saul in Gibeah that they knew where David was hiding, and that they would guide the king to his retreat. But David, warned of their intentions, changed his position, seeking refuge in the mountains between Maon and the Dead Sea.{PP 661.1}[5]
§13
又有人告诉扫罗说：“大卫在隐基底的旷野。扫罗就从以色列人中挑选三千精兵，率领他们往野羊的磐石去，寻索大卫和跟随他的人。”跟随大卫的只有六百人，扫罗则带着兵士三千来捉拿他。耶西的儿子和跟从他的人就在一个隐僻的洞里，等候上帝指示他们应该怎样行。扫罗在山上追赶的时候，他恰巧单独进了大卫和跟随他的人所藏匿的洞里。大卫的人看见了，就催迫他们的首领把扫罗杀死。他们认为此时王落到他们的掌握之中，这乃是上帝亲自把仇敌交在他们手中的凭据，所以他们可以杀他。大卫受了试探，也赞同这个意见；可是他的良心对他说：“不可伸手害……耶和华的受膏者。”[6]{PP 661.2}
§14
Again word was sent to Saul, Behold, David is in the wilderness of Engedi. Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats. David had only six hundred men in his company, while Saul advanced against him with an army of three thousand. In a secluded cave the son of Jesse and his men waited for the guidance of God as to what should be done. As Saul was pressing his way up the mountains, he turned aside, and entered, alone, the very cavern in which David and his band were hidden. When Davids men saw this they urged their leader to kill Saul. The fact that the king was now in their power was interpreted by them as certain evidence that God Himself had delivered the enemy into their hand, that they might destroy him. David was tempted to take this view of the matter; but the voice of conscience spoke to him, saying, Touch not the anointed of the Lord.{PP 661.2}[6]
§15
跟从大卫的人仍然不愿意放过扫罗，他们用上帝的话提醒他们的首领说：“我要将你的仇敌交在你手里，你可以任意待他，如今时候到了；大卫就起来，悄悄的割下扫罗外袍的衣襟。”随后他心中还深深自责，因为他竟损坏了王的衣服。[7]{PP 661.3}
§16
Davids men were still unwilling to leave Saul in peace, and they reminded their commander of the words of God, Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, that thou mayest do to him as it shall seem good unto thee. Then David arose, and cut off the skirt of Sauls robe privily. But his conscience smote him afterward, because he had even marred the garment of the king. {PP 661.3}[7]
§17
扫罗起来，从洞中出去继续寻索大卫，忽然听见有声音震耳，说：“我主，我王。”他转身要看是谁在叫他，孰料就是耶西的儿子，就是他所久欲拿获杀害的人。大卫屈身向王下拜，承认他为他的主。又向扫罗说：“你为何听信人的谗言，说，大卫想要害你呢？今日你亲眼看见在洞中耶和华将你交在我手里；有人叫我杀你，我却爱惜你，说，我不敢伸手害我的主；因为他是耶和华的受膏者。我父啊，看看你外袍的衣襟在我手中；我割下你的衣襟，没有杀你，你由此可以知道我没有恶意叛逆你；你虽然猎取我的命，我却没有得罪你。”[8]{PP 662.1}
§18
Saul rose up the went out of the cave to continue his search, when a voice fell upon his startled ears, saying, My lord the king. He turned to see who was addressing him, and lo! it was the son of Jesse, the man whom he had so long desired to have in his power that he might kill him. David bowed himself to the king, acknowledging him as his master. Then he addressed Saul in these words: Wherefore hearest thou mens words, saying, Behold, David seeketh thy hurt? Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the Lord hath delivered thee today into mine hand in the cave: and some bade me kill thee; but mine eye spared thee; and I said, I will not put forth mine hand against my lord; for he is the Lords anointed. Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand: for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that there is neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee; yet thou huntest my soul to take it.{PP 662.1}[8]
§19
扫罗听了大卫的这些话，就深觉羞愧；他不能不承认大卫的话句句都是确实的。他大受感动，看出自己曾怎样完全落到他所寻索之人的掌握之中。大卫清白无辜，光明正大地站在他面前；扫罗便温柔地对他说：“我儿大卫，这是你的声音吗？就放声大哭。”然后对大卫说：“你比我公义；因为你以善待我，我却以恶待你。……人若遇见仇敌，岂肯放他平安无事的去呢？愿耶和华因你今日向我所行的，以善报你。我也知道你必要作王；以色列的国，必坚立在你手里。”大卫与扫罗立约，如果这事真正实现的话，他必恩待扫罗的家，而不灭没他的名了。[9]{PP 662.2}
§20
When Saul heard the words of David he was humbled, and could not but admit their truthfulness. His feelings were deeply moved as he realized how completely he had been in the power of the man whose life he sought. David stood before him in conscious innocence. With a softened spirit, Saul exclaimed, Is this thy voice, my son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept. Then he declared to David: Thou art more righteous than I: for thou hast rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded thee evil. . . . For if a man find his enemy, will he let him go well away? wherefore the Lord reward thee good for that thou hast done unto me this day. And now, behold, I know well that thou shalt surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in thine hand. And David made a covenant with Saul that when this should take place he would favorably regard the house of Saul, and not cut off his name.{PP 662.2}[9]
§21
大卫深知扫罗过去的作风，故不敢相信王所说保证的话，也不希望他的悔改能以持久。所以扫罗回家之后，大卫仍住在山寨里。[10]{PP 662.3}
§22
Knowing what he did of Sauls past course, David could put no confidence in the assurances of the king, nor hope that his penitent condition would long continue. So when Saul returned to his home David remained in the strongholds of the mountains.{PP 662.3}[10]
§23
凡屈服于撒但权势之下的人，对上帝仆人所怀的仇恨心理或许会改变为谅解和友好。但这些改变往往是不会持久的。每当心怀邪恶之人说了坏话，作了坏事，破坏耶和华的仆人之后，他们有时倒会深深觉悟自己的错误。耶和华的灵与他们相争，他们就在上帝和他们所要破坏其影响的人面前自卑认错，他们也许就会改变对待那些人的作风。但当他们再度打开心门接受那恶者的怂恿时，过去的猜疑和仇恨就都死灰复燃了；就转去从事他们所曾一度悔改而放弃的工作。他们就再以最恶毒的方式，说许多坏话来控告并诬蔑先前所讨好求和的人。撒但能更有力的利用这样的人，比他们没有采取这步骤之前更为有力，因为他们已经背弃了更大的亮光。[11]{PP 662.4}
§24
The enmity that is cherished toward the servants of God by those who have yielded to the power of Satan changes at times to a feeling of reconciliation and favor, but the change does not always prove to be lasting. After evil-minded men have engaged in doing and saying wicked things against the Lords servants, the conviction that they have been in the wrong sometimes takes deep hold upon their minds. The Spirit of the Lord strives with them, and they humble their hearts before God, and before those whose influence they have sought to destroy, and they may change their course toward them. But as they again open the door to the suggestions of the evil one, the old doubts are revived, the old enmity is awakened, and they return to engage in the same work which they repented of, and for a time abandoned. Again they speak evil, accusing and condemning in the bitterest manner the very ones to whom they made most humble confession. Satan can use such souls with far greater power after such a course has been pursued than he could before, because they have sinned against greater light.{PP 662.4}[11]
§25
“撒母耳死了；以色列众人聚集，为他哀哭，将他葬在拉玛，他自己的坟墓里。”以色列全国以撒母耳的死为一个无可补偿的损失。一个伟大而良善的先知，一个卓越的士师已经死了，百姓的悲伤是深切而真挚的。撒母耳从幼年时起，一向以正直的心灵行在以色列人面前；虽然百姓承认扫罗是他们的王，但撒母耳所发的影响却比他有力多了，因为撒母耳的一生是忠实，顺从，而虔诚的。经上说：他“平生作以色列的士师。”[12]{PP 663.1}
§26
And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. The death of Samuel was regarded as an irreparable loss by the nation of Israel. A great and good prophet and an eminent judge had fallen in death, and the grief of the people was deep and heartfelt. From his youth up Samuel had walked before Israel in the integrity of his heart; although Saul had been the acknowledged king, Samuel had wielded a more powerful influence than he, because his record was one of faithfulness, obedience, and devotion. We read that he judged Israel all the days of his life.{PP 663.1}[12]
§27
百姓将扫罗的行为与撒母耳作了比较之后，就看出自己要求立一个王和周围列国一样，真是铸成何等的大错。许多人看到那弥漫于社会间的没有信仰，不敬上帝的风气极其不安。他们王的榜样已发出广泛的影响，所以以色列人真应当为耶和华的先知撒母耳之死而哀悼。[13]{PP 663.2}
§28
As the people contrasted the course of Saul with that of Samuel, they saw what a mistake they had made in desiring a king that they might not be different from the nations around them. Many looked with alarm at the condition of society, fast becoming leavened with irreligion and godlessness. The example of their ruler was exerting a widespread influence, and well might Israel mourn that Samuel, the prophet of the Lord, was dead.{PP 663.2}[13]
§29
国家已经丧失了先知学校的校长和创办人；但损失还不止此。百姓还丧失了他们在大患难中常去请求帮助的导师，丧失了经常在上帝面前为百姓代求最大利益的一位。撒母耳的代祷使百姓感到安全；因为“义人祈祷所发的力量，是大有功效的。”（雅5:16）如今百姓觉得上帝已经丢弃了他们。他们的王似乎比一个疯人好不了多少。公义已经曲枉，秩序已经紊乱了。[14]{PP 663.3}
§30
The nation had lost the founder and president of its sacred schools, but that was not all. It had lost him to whom the people had been accustomed to go with their great troubles--lost one who had constantly interceded with God in behalf of the best interests of its people. The intercession of Samuel had given a feeling of security; for the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16. The people felt now that God was forsaking them. The king seemed little less than a madman. Justice was perverted, and order was turned to confusion. {PP 663.3}[14]
§31
正当国家纲纪因内乱而摇摇欲坠，全国极需要撒母耳稳健敬虔的指导的时候，上帝却叫他这个年迈的仆人安息了。当百姓看到先知静穆的安葬之地，并忆起自己拒绝他作首领的愚妄，不禁悔恨不已；因为先知曾与上天有那么密切的联络，似乎他把全以色列都与耶和华的宝座衔接起来了。那教导他们敬爱并顺从上帝的乃是撒母耳；如今他既死了，百姓就觉得自己只好听凭一个与撒但联合的君王摆布了；这个王必定会使他们与上帝和天庭隔绝的。[15]{PP 664.1}
§32
It was when the nation was racked with internal strife, when the calm, God-fearing counsel of Samuel seemed to be most needed, that God gave His aged servant rest. Bitter were the reflections of the people as they looked upon his quiet resting place, and remembered their folly in rejecting him as their ruler; for he had had so close a connection with Heaven that he seemed to bind all Israel to the throne of Jehovah. It was Samuel who had taught them to love and obey God; but now that he was dead, the people felt that they were left to the mercies of a king who was joined to Satan, and who would divorce the people from God and heaven.{PP 664.1}[15]
§33
大卫虽未能参加撒母耳的葬礼，可是他亲切地深深为他悲哀，如同一个孝敬的儿子痛失慈父一般。他知道撒母耳一死，扫罗的行为就又少了一种拘束，所以这时他觉得比撒母耳在世时更不安全了。正当扫罗忙于哀悼撒母耳时，大卫就乘机去寻找一个比较更安全的地点；结果他们到了巴兰旷野，诗篇第一百二十和一百二十一篇就是他在这里写成的。他在这荒凉的旷野里，一面悲悼先知的死，一面想到国王扫罗还是他的仇敌，就唱出以下的诗歌：“我的帮助从造天地的耶和华而来。他必不叫你的脚摇动；保护你的必不打盹。保护以色列的，也不打盹，也不睡觉。……耶和华要保护你，免受一切的灾害；他要保护你的性命。你出你入，耶和华要保护你，从今时直到永远。”（诗121:2-8）[16]{PP 664.2}
§34
David could not be present at the burial of Samuel, but he mourned for him as deeply and tenderly as a faithful son could mourn for a devoted father. He knew that Samuels death had broken another bond of restraint from the actions of Saul, and he felt less secure than when the prophet lived. While the attention of Saul was engaged in mourning for the death of Samuel, David took the opportunity to seek a place of greater security; so he fled to the wilderness of Paran. It was here that he composed the one hundred and twentieth and twenty-first psalms. In these desolate wilds, realizing that the prophet was dead, and the king was his enemy, he sang: My help cometh from the Lord, Which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: He that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, He that keepeth Israel Shall neither slumber nor sleep. . . . The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: He shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in From this time forth, and even forevermore. Psalm 121:2-8.{PP 664.2}[16]
§35
当大卫和跟随他的人在巴兰旷野的时候，他们保护了拿八的牛群、羊群，脱离匪徒的蹂躏。这拿八是迦勒的后裔，是那一带地方的富户，可是他的品格却是鄙陋而吝啬的。[17]{PP 664.3}
§36
While David and his men were in the wilderness of Paran, they protected from the depredations of marauders the flocks and herds of a wealthy man named Nabal, who had vast possessions in that region. Nabal was a descendant of Caleb, but his character was churlish and niggardly.{PP 664.3}[17]
§37
这时正值剪羊毛的季节，是一个款待人的时候。大卫和他的从者非常缺少食粮；于是耶西的儿子按着当时的风俗，打发十个仆人到拿八那里，提自己主人的名，问他安：又吩咐他们说：“要对那富户如此说，愿你平安，愿你家平安，愿你一切所有的都平安。现在我听说有人为你剪羊毛；你的牧人在迦密（按这不是迦密山，乃是犹大地靠近山城马云的一个地方。）的时候，和我们在一起，我们没有欺负他们，他们也未曾失落什么。可以问你的仆人，他们必告诉你；所以愿我的仆人在你眼前蒙恩；因为是在好日子来的；求你随手取点赐与仆人，和你儿子大卫。”[18]{PP 664.4}
§38
It was the time of sheepshearing, a season of hospitality. David and his men were in sore need of provisions; and in accordance with the custom of the times, the son of Jesse sent ten young men to Nabal, bidding them greet him in their masters name; and he added: Thus shall ye say to him that liveth in prosperity, Peace be both to thee, and peace be to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast. And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: now thy shepherds which were with us, we hurt them not, neither was there aught missing unto them, all the while they were in Carmel. [NOT MOUNT CARMEL, BUT A PLACE IN THE TERRITORY OF JUDAH, NEAR THE HILL TOWN OF MAON.] Ask thy young men, and they will show thee. Wherefore let the young men find favor in thine eyes; for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine hand unto thy servants, and to thy son David.{PP 664.4}[18]
§39
大卫和随从他的人曾像一道墙垣一样，保护了拿八的牧人和他的羊群；如今他们要求这个财主从他丰富的财物中拿出一点来，帮助他们这些曾经为他服务的人。大卫和他的从者原可以从拿八的羊群牛群中随意取用，可是他们没有这样作。他们都是行事诚实的，但他们对拿八的帮助，结果是徒劳了。拿八给大卫的回答，就显出了他的品格如何。他说：“大卫是谁？耶西的儿子是谁？近来悖逆主人奔逃的仆人甚多。我岂可将饮食，和为我剪羊毛人所宰的肉，给我不知道从哪里来的人呢？”[19]{PP 665.1}
§40
David and his men had been like a wall of protection to the shepherds and flocks of Nabal; and now this rich man was asked to furnish from his abundance some relief to the necessities of those who had done him such valuable service. David and his men might have helped themselves from the flocks and herds, but they did not. They behaved themselves in an honest way. Their kindness, however, was lost upon Nabal. The answer he returned to David was indicative of his character: Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? There be many servants nowadays that break away every man from his master. Shall I then take my bread, any my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be?{PP 665.1}[19]
§41
当仆人空手回来把这一切的经过告诉大卫时，他就怒气填膺。于是吩咐从者准备动武；因为他决意去惩罚那拒绝他合理要求，而同时还要侮辱人的人。这出于感情冲动的行为，正与扫罗的本性一样，而不像是大卫的作风。耶西的儿子还要在苦难的学校中，学习忍耐的教训呢。[20]{PP 665.2}
§42
When the young men returned empty-handed and related the affair to David, he was filled with indignation. He commanded his men to equip themselves for an encounter; for he had determined to punish the man who had denied him what was his right, and had added insult to injury. This impulsive movement was more in harmony with the character of Saul than with that of David, but the son of Jesse had yet to learn of patience in the school of affliction.{PP 665.2}[20]
§43
拿八遣去大卫的仆人之后，拿八的一个仆人急忙到拿八的妻亚比该那里，把这一切事都告诉了她，说：“大卫从旷野打发使者来问我主人的安，主人却辱骂他们。但是那些人待我们甚好；我们在田野与他们来往的时候，没有受他们的欺负，也未曾失落什么。我们在他们那里牧羊的时候，他们昼夜作我们的保障。所以你当筹划，看怎样行才好；不然，祸患定要临到我主人和他全家。”[21]{PP 665.3}
§44
One of Nabals servants hastened to Abigail, the wife of Nabal, after he had dismissed Davids young men, and told her what had happened. Behold, he said, David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he railed on them. But the men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we anything, as long as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields. They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep. Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our master, and against all his household.{PP 665.3}[21]
§45
亚比该没有和他丈夫商量，也没有把自己的意向告诉他，就急忙预备了充足的食粮驮在驴上，吩咐仆人在前头走，她自己也起身去迎接大卫和他的从者。她在一个山峡里遇见了他们。“亚比该见大卫，便急忙下驴，在大卫面前脸伏于地，叩拜。俯伏在大卫的脚前，说：我主啊，愿这罪归我，求你容婢女向你进言。”亚比该向大卫说话非常恭敬，如同对君王说话一样。拿八曾辱骂他们说：“大卫是谁？”但亚比该却称他为“我主。”她想用和蔼的话语平息大卫的怒气，为她的丈夫求情。亚比该没有一点的夸张或骄傲，而满有上帝的智慧和爱心，显明她对自己家庭的爱护；她又使大卫清楚她丈夫暴躁的行为，并不是蓄意的侮辱，不过单单从他不良和自私的性情爆发出来的而已。[22]{PP 666.1}
§46
Without consulting her husband or telling him of her intention, Abigail made up an ample supply of provisions, which, laded upon asses, she sent forward in the charge of servants, and herself started out to meet the band of David. She met them in a covert of a hill. And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, upon me let this iniquity be: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience. Abigail addressed David with as much reverence as though speaking to a crowned monarch. Nabal had scornfully exclaimed, Who is David? but Abigail called him, my lord. With kind words she sought to soothe his irritated feelings, and she pleaded with him in behalf of her husband. With nothing of ostentation or pride, but full of the wisdom and love of God, Abigail revealed the strength of her devotion to her household; and she made it plain to David that the unkind course of her husband was in no wise premeditated against him as a personal affront, but was simply the outburst of an unhappy and selfish nature.{PP 666.1}[22]
§47
“我主啊，耶和华既然阻止你亲手报仇，取流血的罪，所以我指着永生的耶和华，又敢在你面前起誓，说，愿你的仇敌，和谋害你的人，都像拿八一样。”亚比该没有把这次劝阻大卫的功劳归给自己，却将尊荣和赞美归给上帝。于是她拿出丰厚的礼物献给跟随大卫之人作为“平安祭；”她仍然再三提出恳求，好像她自己是惹恼他们首领的人。[23]{PP 666.2}
§48
Now therefore, my lord, as the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, seeing the Lord hath withholden thee from coming to shed blood, and from avenging thyself with thine own hand, now let thine enemies, and they that seek evil to my lord, be as Nabal. Abigail did not take to herself the credit of this reasoning to turn David from his hasty purpose, but gave to God the honor and the praise. She then offered her rich provision as a peace offering to the men of David, and still pleaded as if she herself were the one who had so excited the resentment of the chief.{PP 666.2}[23]
§49
她说：“求你饶恕婢女的罪过；耶和华必为我主建立坚固的家，因我主为耶和华争战；并且在你平生的日子，查不出有什么过来。”亚比该暗示大卫所应采取的步骤。他应当为耶和华争战。他不可因自己受亏而报仇；虽然有人逼迫他，看他为一个叛徒，他也不可采取报复的手段，她接着说：“虽有人起来追逼你，寻索你的性命，你的性命却在耶和华你的上帝那里蒙保护，如包裹宝器一样；……到了耶和华照所应许你的话赐福与你，立你作以色列的王，那时我主必不至心里不安，觉得良心有亏。耶和华赐福与我主的时候求你记念婢女。”[24]{PP 666.3}
§50
I pray thee, she said, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid: for the Lord will certainly make my lord a sure house; because my lord fighteth the battles of the Lord, and evil hath not been found in thee all thy days. Abigail presented by implication the course that David ought to pursue. He should fight the battles of the Lord. He was not to seek revenge for personal wrongs, even though persecuted as a traitor. She continued: Though man be risen up to pursue thee, and to seek thy soul, yet the soul of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of life with the Lord thy God. . . . And it shall come to pass, when the Lord shall have done to my lord according to all the good that He hath spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed thee prince over Israel; that this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offense of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself: and when the Lord shall have dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid. 1 Samuel 25:29-31, R. V.{PP 666.3}[24]
§51
这些话，只有一个具有从上头来的智慧的人才说得出来。亚比该的虔诚像一朵芬芳的鲜花，不知不觉地在她的姿容、言语和行动上发出馨香之气。有上帝儿子的灵住在她心中。她的言语温柔合宜，并满有仁爱和平，发出一种属于天上的影响。于是大卫心中涌现了更和善的情绪；他一想起他粗鲁的行为所可能引起的后果，不禁恐惧战兢起来。“使人和睦的人有福了，因为他们必称为上帝的儿子。”（太5:9）唯愿世上多有些像这个以色列的妇女一样的人，用灵巧的机智和稳健的言语，来平息怒气，劝阻暴行，止息大恶。[25]{PP 667.1}
§52
These words could have come only from the lips of one who had partaken of the wisdom from above. The piety of Abigail, like the fragrance of a flower, breathed out all unconsciously in face and word and action. The Spirit of the Son of God was abiding in her soul. Her speech, seasoned with grace, and full of kindness and peace, shed a heavenly influence. Better impulses came to David, and he trembled as he thought what might have been the consequences of his rash purpose. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9. Would that there were many more like this woman of Israel, who would soothe the irritated feelings, prevent rash impulses, and quell great evils by words of calm and well-directed wisdom.{PP 667.1}[25]
§53
一个献身的基督化人生是经常发出光明、安慰与和平的。它的特点乃是纯洁、机智、淳朴和有效用。它被无私的爱所控制，使它的影响也成为圣洁。它充满基督的精神，使人无论走到何处，都留下光明的踪迹。亚比该是一个聪明的督责者和劝诫者。大卫的愤怒在她的说理与感化的能力之下完全消散了。他已觉悟到自己所采取行动的不智，看出自己已丧失了自制的能力。[26]{PP 667.2}
§54
A consecrated Christian life is ever shedding light and comfort and peace. It is characterized by purity, tact, simplicity, and usefulness. It is controlled by that unselfish love that sanctifies the influence. It is full of Christ, and leaves a track of light wherever its possessor may go. Abigail was a wise reprover and counselor. Davids passion died away under the power of her influence and reasoning. He was convinced that he had taken an unwise course and had lost control of his own spirit.{PP 667.2}[26]
§55
于是他以谦卑的心领受了责备，这精神正符合他自己的言论：“任凭义人击打我，这算为仁慈；任凭他责备我，这算为头上的膏油。”（诗141:5）大卫对亚比该凭正义的劝诫非常感谢，并为她祝福。许多人受了谴责之后，认为自己能领受责备而不暴躁，已经是很好的表现；但有多少人能以感激之心领受责备，并为那些想要救他们脱离恶行的人祝福呢？[27]{PP 667.3}
§56
With a humble heart he received the rebuke, in harmony with his own words, Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil. Psalm 141:5. He gave thanks and blessings because she advised him righteously. There are many who, when they are reproved, think it praiseworthy if they receive the rebuke without becoming impatient; but how few take reproof with gratitude of heart and bless those who seek to save them from pursuing an evil course.{PP 667.3}[27]
§57
亚比该回去之后，看见拿八大张筵宴，和客人放纵狂饮。到第二天，她才把自己会见大卫的一切经过，告诉她的丈夫。拿八原是个怯懦成性的人；当他看出自己的愚妄几乎使自己丧命时，就吓得如同瘫痪了一样。他唯恐大卫将来还要报复，所以心中非常惊慌，以至魂飞魄散，失去知觉。过了十天他就死了。原来上帝所赐给他的生命，向来就是世上的祸害。在他的宴乐狂欢之中，上帝已经告诉他，正如在比喻中对那财主所说的话：“今夜必要你的灵魂。”（路12:20）[28]{PP 667.4}
§58
When Abigail returned home she found Nabal and his guests in the enjoyment of a great feast, which they had converted into a scene of drunken revelry. Not until the next morning did she relate to her husband what had occurred in her interview with David. Nabal was a coward at heart; and when he realized how near his folly had brought him to a sudden death, he seemed smitten with paralysis. Fearful that David would still pursue his purpose of revenge, he was filled with horror, and sank down in a condition of helpless insensibility. After ten days he died. The life that God had given him had been only a curse to the world. In the midst of his rejoicing and making merry, God had said to him, as He said to the rich man of the parable, This night thy soul shall be required of thee. Luke 12:20.{PP 667.4}[28]
§59
后来大卫娶了亚比该为妻。他已经有了一个妻子；可是当时列国的风俗令他的见解模糊了，也影响了他的行动。虽是伟大而善良的人，也会时常随从世人的习俗而犯错误。大卫在他的一生中饱尝了多妻的痛苦。[29]{PP 668.1}
§60
David afterward married Abigail. He was already the husband of one wife, but the custom of the nations of his time had perverted his judgment and influenced his actions. Even great and good men have erred in following the practices of the world. The bitter result of marrying many wives was sorely felt throughout all the life of David.{PP 668.1}[29]
§61
撒母耳死后，大卫得享了几个月的太平日子。他又往西弗的旷野去；可是这些仇敌想要讨王的欢喜，就去把大卫藏匿的地方告诉他。这个消息把扫罗心中一时沉寂了的仇恨又唤起了。他就传集他的士兵，带领着他们去追踪大卫。但是有人探得了扫罗再来追寻的消息，就去告诉耶西的儿子；于是大卫带几个人出去探索敌营的所在地。这是在夜间，他们小心地前进，到了扫罗安营的地方，他们看见王和他从者的帐棚。当时他们并没有被人发觉；因为全营都睡熟了。大卫叫他的友伴跟他一直到敌人营中去，他说：“谁同我下到扫罗营里去？”亚比筛立时回答说：“我同你下去。”[30]{PP 668.2}
§62
After the death of Samuel, David was left in peace for a few months. Again he repaired to the solitude of the Ziphites; but these enemies, hoping to secure the favor of the king, informed him of Davids hiding place. This intelligence aroused the demon of passion that had been slumbering in Sauls breast. Once more he summoned his men of arms and led them out in pursuit of David. But friendly spies brought tidings to the son of Jesse that Saul was again pursuing him; and with a few of his men, David started out to learn the location of his enemy. It was night when, cautiously advancing, they came upon the encampment, and saw before them the tents of the king and his attendants. They were unobserved, for the camp was quiet in slumber. David called upon his friends to go with him into the very midst of the foe. In answer to his question, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? Abishai promptly responded, I will go down with thee.{PP 668.2}[30]
§63
大卫和他的从者在山岭的阴影之下，踏进了仇敌的营中。当他们正在查点仇敌人数的时候，忽然到了熟睡着的扫罗身边，他的枪插在地上，水瓶也在他头旁。元帅押尼珥睡在他旁边，兵士则围着他们睡在四周，都睡得毫无知觉了。亚比筛就举起枪来对大卫说：“现在上帝将你的仇敌交在你手里；求你容我拿枪将他刺透在地；一刺就成，不用再刺。”他正等待大卫的许可；只听得大卫悄悄地对他说：“不可害死他；有谁伸手害耶和华的受膏者而无罪呢？……我指着永生的耶和华起誓，他或被耶和华击打，或是死期到了，或是出战阵亡。我在耶和华面前，万不敢伸手害耶和华的受膏者；现在你可以将他头旁的枪和水瓶拿来，我们就走。大卫从扫罗的头旁，拿了枪和水瓶；二人就走了，没有人看见，没有人知道，也没有醒起，都睡着了；因为耶和华使他们沉沉的睡了。”可见耶和华使最强壮的人无力，使最智慧的人失策，使最警觉的人徒劳，该是多么容易啊！[31]{PP 668.3}
§64
Hidden by the deep shadows of the hills, David and his attendant entered the encampment of the enemy. As they sought to ascertain the exact number of their foes, they came upon Saul sleeping, his spear stuck in the ground, and a cruse of water at his head. Beside him lay Abner, his chief commander, and all around them were the soldiers, locked in slumber. Abishai raised his spear, and said to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not smite him the second time. He waited for the word of permission; but there fell upon his ear the whispered words: Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the Lords anointed, and be guiltless? . . . As the Lord liveth, the Lord shall smite him; or his day shall come to die; or he shall descend into battle, and perish. The Lord forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the Lords anointed: but, I pray thee, take thou now the spear that is at his bolster, and the cruse of water, and let us go. So David took the spear and the cruse of water from Sauls bolster; and they gat them away, and no man saw it, nor knew it, neither awaked: for they were all asleep; because a deep sleep from the Lord was fallen upon them. How easily the Lord can weaken the strongest, remove prudence from the wisest, and baffle the skill of the most watchful!{PP 668.3}[31]
§65
当大卫离开营盘，走到安全的地点时，他就站在山顶上大声呼喊众人和押尼珥说：“你不是个勇士吗？以色列中谁能比你呢？民中有人进来要害死王你的主，你为何没有保护王你的主呢？你这样是不好的；我指着永生的耶和华起誓，你们都是该死的，因为没有保护你们的主，就是耶和华的受膏者；现在你看看王头旁的枪和水瓶在哪里。扫罗听出是大卫的声音就说：我儿大卫，这是你的声音吗？大卫说：主我的王啊，是我的声音。又说：我作了什么？我手里有什么恶事；我主竟追赶仆人呢？求我主我王听仆人的话。”这时王又口口声声地认罪说：“我有罪了；我儿大卫，你可以回来；因你今日看我的性命为宝贵，我必不再加害于你；我是糊涂人，大大错了。大卫说：王的枪在这里，可以吩咐一个仆人过来拿去。”扫罗虽然已经应许说：“我必不再加害于你，”可是大卫却没有置身于他的势力之下。[32]{PP 671.1}
§66
When David was at a safe distance from the camp he stood on the top of a hill and cried with a loud voice to the people and to Abner, saying, Art not thou a valiant man? and who is like to thee in Israel? wherefore then hast thou not kept thy lord the king? for there came one of the people in to destroy the king thy lord. This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the Lord liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master the Lords anointed. And now see where the kings spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his bolster. And Saul knew Davids voice, and said, Is this thy voice, my son David? And David said, It is my voice, my lord, O king. And he said, Wherefore doth my lord thus pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil is in mine hand? Now therefore, I pray thee, let my lord the king hear the words of his servant. Again the acknowledgment fell from the lips of the king, I have sinned: return, my son David; for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly. And David answered and said, Behold the kings spear! and let one of the young men come over and fetch it. Although Saul had made the promise, I will no more do thee harm, David did not place himself in his power.{PP 671.1}[32]
§67
大卫又一次重看王的性命，使扫罗心中受了更深刻的印象，并使他更谦卑地承认自己的过错。扫罗因大卫显出这么大的仁爱，甚觉惊奇，并被他所软化了。扫罗临走的时候对大卫说：“我儿大卫，愿你得福；你必作大事，也必得胜。”可是耶西的儿子并不希望王会长久保持这样的心。[33]{PP 671.2}
§68
The second instance of Davids respect for his sovereigns life made a still deeper impression upon the mind of Saul and brought from him a more humble acknowledgment of his fault. He was astonished and subdued at the manifestation of such kindness. In parting from David, Saul exclaimed, Blessed be thou, my son David: thou shalt both do great things, and also shalt still prevail. But the son of Jesse had no hope that the king would long continue in this frame of mind.{PP 671.2}[33]
§69
大卫觉得没有希望与扫罗和好了。他认为自己终有一日，必要牺牲在王的恶毒之下，所以他决定再到非利士地去避难。他就带着六百个人到迦特王亚吉那里去。[34]{PP 672.1}
§70
David despaired of a reconciliation with Saul. It seemed inevitable that he should at last fall a victim to the malice of the king, and he determined again to seek refuge in the land of the Philistines. With the six hundred men under his command, he passed over to Achish, the king of Gath.{PP 672.1}[34]
§71
大卫认为扫罗必能达到他杀人的目的，这种结论不是出于上帝的指示。正当扫罗设计杀害他的时候，上帝还是在为大卫坚定国位。虽然在人看来是奥秘莫测的，上帝必实行他的计划。世人不能明白上帝之道；他们只看到表面的事，以为上帝所容许临到他们的种种困难、考验和试炼，都是与他们不利，而只能令他们败亡的。大卫就是这样看表面上的困难，而没有仰望上帝的应许。他不敢相信自己终能登上王位。长久的试炼已经使他的信心困倦，忍耐耗尽了。[35]{PP 672.2}
§72
Davids conclusion that Saul would certainly accomplish his murderous purpose was formed without the counsel of God. Even while Saul was plotting and seeking to accomplish his destruction, the Lord was working to secure David the kingdom. God works out His plans, though to human eyes they are veiled in mystery. Men cannot understand the ways of God; and, looking at appearances, they interpret the trials and tests and provings that God permits to come upon them as things that are against them, and that will only work their ruin. Thus David looked on appearances, and not at the promises of God. He doubted that he would ever come to the throne. Long trials had wearied his faith and exhausted his patience.{PP 672.2}[35]
§73
上帝并没有叫大卫到以色列人的死敌非利士人那里去求保护。这一个国家至终必成为他最狠毒的仇敌；而他在困难的时候，竟到他们那里去求帮助。他对扫罗和他的臣仆既失去了信心，就投身于本国敌人的宽怜之下。大卫是一个英勇的将领，并曾显明自己是一个机智而成功的战士；但当他到非利士那里去的时候，他所作的却是直接损害自己的利益。上帝已经指派他在犹大地树立他的旗帜，可是他缺少信心，所以在没有得到上帝的命令时，就放弃了他的岗位。[36]{PP 672.3}
§74
The Lord did not send David for protection to the Philistines, the most bitter foes of Israel. This very nation would be among his worst enemies to the last, and yet he had fled to them for help in his time of need. Having lost all confidence in Saul and in those who served him, he threw himself upon the mercies of the enemies of his people. David was a brave general, and had proved himself a wise and successful warrior; but he was working directly against his own interests when he went to the Philistines. God had appointed him to set up his standard in the land of Judah, and it was want of faith that led him to forsake his post of duty without a command from the Lord.{PP 672.3}[36]
§75
上帝因大卫的不信受了羞辱。非利士人曾惧怕大卫，比惧怕扫罗和他的军队更甚；而今大卫既投靠于非利士人的保护之下，就把自己百姓的软弱暴露在他们面前了。这样，他就无形中鼓励了这些无情的仇敌去压迫以色列人。大卫曾受膏担负保卫上帝百姓的工作；耶和华不愿他的仆人暴露他百姓的软弱，或不关心他们的福利，因而使恶人得到鼓励。再者，他的同胞也获得一种印象，以为他已经到异邦人中去侍奉他们的神了。他的这一个行动就授人以借口误解他的动机，并使许多人对他发生意见。撒但所希望他作的事，他竟被引诱去作了；大卫在非利士人中间避难，就使上帝的仇敌和他百姓的仇敌大为庆幸。虽然大卫没有放弃敬拜上帝的信仰，也没有停止他所献身从事的事业；可是他为个人的安全而牺牲了信靠上帝的心，这样就使上帝要他仆人所具的正直和忠诚的品格失了光彩。[37]{PP 672.4}
§76
God was dishonored by Davids unbelief. The Philistines had feared David more than they had feared Saul and his armies; and by placing himself under the protection of the Philistines, David discovered to them the weakness of his own people. Thus he encouraged these relentless foes to oppress Israel. David had been anointed to stand in defense of the people of God; and the Lord would not have His servants give encouragement to the wicked by disclosing the weakness of His people or by an appearance of indifference to their welfare. Furthermore, the impression was received by his brethren that he had gone to the heathen to serve their gods. By this act he gave occasion for misconstruing his motives, and many were led to hold prejudice against him. The very thing that Satan desired to have him do he was led to do; for, in seeking refuge among the Philistines, David caused great exultation to the enemies of God and His people. David did not renounce his worship of God nor cease his devotion to His cause; but he sacrificed his trust in Him to his personal safety, and thus tarnished the upright and faithful character that God requires His servants to possess.{PP 672.4}[37]
§77
非利士王很优渥地接待大卫。这种热烈的欢迎，一方面是因他钦佩大卫，一方面是因有一个希伯来人来求他保护而自鸣得意。大卫到了亚吉的境内，感觉到不会有人把他出卖给扫罗。所以他就把家属和一切所有的都搬到这里来，跟随他的人也都照样行了；这样看来，他好像是要永远在非利士地安家了。这一切，都使那应许保护这些逃亡者的亚吉非常满意。[38]{PP 673.1}
§78
David was cordially received by the king of the Philistines. The warmth of this reception was partly due to the fact that the king admired him and partly to the fact that it was flattering to his vanity to have a Hebrew seek his protection. David felt secure from betrayal in the dominions of Achish. He brought his family, his household, and his possessions, as did also his men; and to all appearance he had come to settle permanently in the land of Philistia. All this was gratifying to Achish, who promised to protect the fugitive Israelites.{PP 673.1}[38]
§79
大卫要求迁出京都，而在京外的城邑找一个地方居住，王就把洗革拉赐给他为业。大卫看出自己和跟随他的人在拜偶像之人的影响之下，是相当危险的。在一个完全划归他们使用的城中，他们就比留在迦特更有敬拜上帝的自由；因为迦特的异教敬拜，只有时常为他们加添困难和烦恼。[39]{PP 673.2}
§80
At Davids request for a residence in the country, removed from the royal city, the king graciously granted Ziklag as a possession. David realized that it would be dangerous for himself and his men to be under the influence of idolaters. In a town wholly separated for their use they might worship God with more freedom than they could if they remained in Gath, where the heathen rites could not but prove a source of evil and annoyance.{PP 673.2}[39]
§81
大卫在这偏僻的城中居住时，曾与基述人、基色人和亚玛力人作战，击杀他们，并没有留下一人给迦特报信。在他从战场回来时，告诉亚吉他是与本族犹大人作战。这种虚假的报告，意味着加强非利士人的威力，因为他们的王说：“大卫使本族以色列人憎恶他；所以他必永远作我的仆人了。”大卫知道上帝的旨意是要灭绝那些异教外邦的民族，他也知道自己是蒙拣选作这种工作的，但他采取欺骗的手段，并不是按着上帝的旨意。[40]{PP 673.3}
§82
While dwelling in this isolated town David made war upon the Geshurites, the Gezrites, and the Amalekites, and he left none alive to bring tidings to Gath. When he returned from battle he gave Achish to understand that he had been warring against those of his own nation, the men of Judah. By this dissembling he was the means of strengthening the hand of the Philistines; for the king said, He hath made his people Israel utterly to abhor him; therefore he shall be my servant forever. David knew that it was the will of God that those heathen tribes should be destroyed, and he knew that he was appointed to do this work; but he was not walking in the counsel of God when he practiced deception. {PP 673.3}[40]
§83
“那时非利士人聚集军旅；要与以色列人打仗。亚吉对大卫说：你当知道，你和跟随你的人，都要随我出战。”大卫无意举手攻击自己的同胞；但他还不知道应取什么步骤，只能等待环境向他指明他的本分。于是他用模棱两可的话回答王说：“仆人所能作的事，王必知道。”亚吉认为这话是应许在即将到来的战事上帮助他，所以答应赐给大卫尊荣，使他在非利士朝廷中居崇高的地位。[41]{PP 674.1}
§84
And it came to pass in those days, that the Philistines gathered their armies together for warfare, to fight with Israel. And Achish said unto David, Know thou assuredly, that thou shalt go out with me to battle, thou and thy men. David had no intention of lifting his hand against his people; but he was not certain as to what course he would pursue, until circumstances should indicate his duty. He answered the king evasively, and said, Surely thou shalt know what thy servant can do. Achish understood these words as a promise of assistance in the approaching war, and pledged his word to bestow upon David great honor, and give him a high position at the Philistine court.{PP 674.1}[41]
§85
大卫对上帝应许的信心虽然有一点动摇，但他仍记得撒母耳曾膏他作以色列的王。他回想过去上帝所给他击败仇敌的胜利。他记得上帝的怜悯曾如何保护他脱离扫罗的手，所以他决意不辜负这神圣的委托。虽然以色列的王曾经寻索他的性命，但他决不与自己同胞的仇敌联合作战。[42]{PP 674.2}
§86
But although Davids faith had staggered somewhat at the promises of God, he still remembered that Samuel had anointed him king of Israel. He recalled the victories that God had given him over his enemies in the past. He reviewed the great mercy of God in preserving him from the hand of Saul, and determined not to betray a sacred trust. Even though the king of Israel had sought his life, he would not join his forces with the enemies of his people.{PP 674.2}[42]