Samuel dies in this chapter but it seems mentioned almost in passing. The focus has completely shifted to David by this point; even Saul is barely mentioned in this chapter. What distinguishes 1 Samuel 25 is that we see for the first time a moment of weakness on David's part. He has been a model of virtue heretofore, especially when compared with Saul's evil behavior. But in 1 Samuel 25 we see that David is human after all as he gives in to his anger and comes close to having someone unjustly killed. That someone is Nabal, a sinful man who God plans on dealing with soon. But what we learn through David is that punishment must ultimately come from God; it is not ours to dole out at our whim. This lesson comes from the voice of Abigail, Nabal's wife. Her words are filled with holiness, as if she is God's mouthpiece in this chapter. David realizes the error of his ways and does not proceed with his evil intentions, thanks again to the good Abigail. And Nabal is eventually dispatched by God, in due time. We see David referred to as the king several times in this chapter, which leads to believe that his ascension is near at hand. He is being regarded more and more by the Israelites as their rightful king. The time of Saul is all but over. And the Israelites will soon have a virtuous king who takes the virtuous Abigail to be his queen.
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