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Today’s reading from 1 Samuel 1–3 marks the beginning of a new chapter in Israel’s story: the transition to monarchy. But before Israel ever cries out for a king, God sets the stage as to why such a cry would come. In the beginning chapters God uses a failing spiritual leader—Eli, a high priest from the line of Ithamar (Aaron’s youngest son)—to demonstrate why the people would want something different. Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are spiritually reckless reprobates (1 Samuel 2:12–17, 22–25), and his passivity only adds to the nation’s waywardness. But into this, God raises up a new leader—Samuel.

Before Samuel is introduced, we meet Hannah, one of the wives of Elkanah the Levite living in Ephraim (1st Samuel 1:1:1, 1st Chronicles 6:23). Her story contrasts sharply with Eli's. Hannah is mocked and provoked by Peninnah, the other wife, because of her barrenness. Each year, Hannah pours out her heart to God at the tabernacle in Shiloh, praying for a child. She vows that if God gives her a son, she will dedicate him to lifelong service to the Lord.

God answers her prayer. When Samuel is weaned, Hannah is quick to keep her vow and presents him to the Lord at the tabernacle. Her obedience is rewarded:

“…the Lord visited Hannah, and she conceived and bore three sons and two daughters” 1st Samuel 2:21.

We may not always know or be guaranteed how God will respond to our prayers, but we can trust His goodness and timing. Hannah’s story reflects Romans 8:28: God works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

By contrast, Eli’s family paints a picture of disobedience and delay. Scripture says Eli,

“…kept hearing all that his sons were doing…” 1st Samuel 2:22. 

However, even with the constant reports, he failed to act. These sons deserved quick and precise judgment. Eli should have taken a page out of his godly great-great-uncle Phinehas's playbook and run these boys through with a spear (Numbers 25:7–8).

Because of Eli’s negligence, God pronounced judgment:

“I will raise up for myself a faithful priest… I will build him a sure house, and he shall go in and out before my anointed forever” 1 Samuel 2:35.

This prophecy finds its immediate fulfillment in Samuel, who becomes prophet, judge and priest. Later, Zadok—descendant of Eleazar and the original Phinehas—replaces Eli’s descendant Abiathar under King David. Ultimately, this promise is fulfilled in Jesus, the eternal and faithful High Priest.

God shifts His favor and begins to speak directly to Samuel. When the Lord calls to him at night, Samuel mistakes it for Eli’s voice. On the third time, Eli finally realizes it is the Lord and instructs Samuel to respond. Samuel says:

“Speak, Lord, for your servant hears” 1 Samuel 3:9.

Samuel’s willingness to listen and obey sets him apart. He faithfully delivers God's hard message to Eli, He then matures Samuel, and continues to be with him. Scripture says none of Samuel’s words fell to the ground—God confirmed his role as a trustworthy prophet (3:19–20).

Takeaway: God is looking for willing hearts that respond in obedience. Hannah fulfilled her vow without delay. Samuel answered God’s call with humility and faithfulness. Eli, sadly, hesitated and failed to act.

Are you quick to fulfill your spiritual commitments like Hannah? Do you respond to God’s voice like Samuel—or delay like Eli? Today, I’m challenged to evaluate what God has called me to and how I’m responding.