*Samuel’s story is told in 1 Samuel 1-28
Who is Samuel?
- Born to Elkanah and Hannah, who had previously been barren (1 Samuel 1:20)
- Dedicated to the service of God at the temple in Shiloh, under the priest Eli (1 Samuel 1:27-28)
- Recognized as the last of the judges, the first of the prophets (Acts 3:24, 13:20)
- Anointed the first and second kings of Israel, Saul and David, establishing the monarchy (1 Samuel 10:1, 16:13)
Strengths and Accomplishments
- Served God faithfully from a young age, and God was with him (1 Samuel 3:19)
- Willing to deliver God’s harsh judgment to Eli despite their close relationship (1 Samuel 3:11-18)
- Anointed the first two kings of Israel, setting a precedent for the future (1 Samuel 10:1, 16:13)
- Served as an effective judge and spiritual guide for Israel during a crucial period in their history (1 Samuel 7:15-17)
Weaknesses and Mistakes
- Ineffectual Parenting: Unable to guide his own sons to walk in his ways, as they were corrupt and dishonest (1 Samuel 8:1-3)
Lessons from his Life
- Importance of Faith and Obedience: His dedication to God shows the importance of faith and obedience (1 Samuel 3:19)
- The Role of God in Leadership: His role in establishing the monarchy reminds us that true leadership comes from God (1 Samuel 16:7)
- Importance of Parental Guidance: His sons’ failings underline the importance of parental guidance in moral upbringing (1 Samuel 8:1-3)
Key Verses
- “The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground.” (1 Samuel 3:19 NIV)
- “But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.'” (1 Samuel 16:7 NIV)