1 Samuel 3:1-10: The Call of Samuel
The Context
In 1 Samuel 3:1-10, we find ourselves in the midst of a significant turning point in the history of Israel. The prophet Eli, who has been leading the people of Israel, is growing old and his eyesight is failing him. Meanwhile, the young Samuel, who has been serving under Eli, is about to receive a call from God that will change the course of his life forever.
The Story
The story begins with Samuel lying down in the temple, where the ark of the covenant was housed (1 Samuel 3:2-3). Suddenly, he hears a voice calling out to him, saying "Samuel! Samuel!" (1 Samuel 3:4). Not knowing who is speaking, Samuel runs to Eli, thinking it might be him calling. However, Eli sends him back to bed, saying he didn't call him (1 Samuel 3:5-6).
This scenario plays out two more times, with Samuel running to Eli, and Eli sending him back, until finally, Eli realizes that it might be the Lord calling Samuel (1 Samuel 3:7-9). Eli instructs Samuel to go back to his bed and if he hears the voice again, to say, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9).
The Significance
This passage is significant for several reasons:
The Call of Samuel
This passage marks the call of Samuel, who will become one of the greatest prophets of Israel. Samuel's willingness to obey and listen to God's voice sets him apart as a servant of the Lord.
The End of the Eli Era
The passage also marks the beginning of the end of the Eli era. Eli's failure to discipline his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, has led to a decline in the spiritual state of Israel. The call of Samuel signifies a new era of leadership and spiritual awakening in Israel.
The Sovereignty of God
Finally, the passage highlights the sovereignty of God. God is not limited by human weakness or failure. He can and does speak to Samuel, a young boy, and commissions him to become a prophet.
Application
Today, we can apply the lessons from this passage to our own lives:
Listening to God's Voice
Like Samuel, we must be willing to listen to God's voice, even when it's hard to hear or understand. We must quiet our hearts and minds to hear His still, small voice.
Obeying God's Call
Like Samuel, we must be willing to obey God's call, even when it's challenging or uncertain. We must trust that God has a plan and purpose for our lives, just as He did for Samuel.
God's Sovereignty
Finally, we must remember that God is sovereign over all things. He can and does speak to us, guide us, and use us for His glory, just as He did with Samuel.
