(story told in 1 Samuel 1-28)
Samuel’s story began as an answer to prayer. His mother, Hannah, had longed for a child and promised God that if He blessed her with a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord’s service. God heard her, and Samuel was born. When he was old enough, Hannah brought him to the temple at Shiloh, where he grew up under the care of the priest Eli. From a young age, Samuel’s life was devoted to serving God.
One night, while Samuel was sleeping, he heard a voice calling his name. Thinking it was Eli, he ran to him, but Eli told him he hadn’t called. This happened three times before Eli realized it was the Lord speaking. He told Samuel to reply, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” From then on, Samuel became a prophet—the one God used to speak to His people.
As Samuel grew, Israel turned back to God through his leadership. He called the nation to repent and led them to victory against their enemies, reminding them that God alone was their true King. Samuel served faithfully as a judge and prophet, helping Israel walk in obedience to God’s word.
When the people demanded a human king, Samuel warned them that such a choice would bring hardship. Still, God told him to anoint Saul as Israel’s first king. Later, when Saul disobeyed God, Samuel sorrowfully told him that his kingdom would not last.
Samuel’s life was marked by faithfulness and prayer. Even in difficult times, he listened to God and obeyed. His story teaches us the power of a listening heart—one that seeks God’s will above all else.