READ: 1 Sam. 3:1-11: … Samuel ministered to the Lord before Eli. And the word … was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation … Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, Samuel! Samuel! And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.” Then the Lord said to Samuel: Behold, I will do something in Israel at which both ears of everyone … will tingle.
This well-known story of the young Samuel takes place during a low point in the salvation history of God’s people. Although sacrifices are still being offered, there is a lack of faithful insight, holy seriousness, and discipline. This is done out of tradition, a rote repetition rather than heartfelt praise. F
ollowing this covenantal slackening and self-will, the LORD’s response is stated in verse 1: “The word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation” (vs.1).
When God’s Word is persistently rejected or ignored, the LORD actively withdraws from His church. Israel then risks losing God’s favor, as happened in the time of Ahaz (Isaiah 8:16) and during the exile (Jeremiah 2:9).
But God is now going to intervene redemptively through the young Samuel. After Hannah’s upbringing, he is further taught by Eli. They live, work, and sleep in the tent of meeting, where the LORD Himself is present. Late at night, the LORD calls Samuel, who immediately responds: “Here I am.” He quickly goes to Eli because he does not recognize God’s call (vs.7).
It is only on the third occasion that Eli understands: it must be the LORD calling Samuel. It must have surprised Eli: Not he, the high priest, is called, but his young apprentice! Then the LORD comes, stands still, and calls Samuel again: “Samuel, Samuel” (vs. 10). Thus, there is even a manifestation of God’s presence! God wants to let Samuel know this for encouragement.
Samuel obediently speaks the familiar words in faith: “Speak, for Your servant hears.” Thus, the LORD leaves an indelible impression on young Samuel. May he maintain this attitude!
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Singing: Ps. 74:6,8