The pattern for Samuel’s long life of service to God and to Israel was set early. Samuel’s mother dedicated him to God’s service from the time he was born (cf. 1 Samuel 1:20-28). While he was still a boy, God called to him in an extraordinary way. Samuel didn’t know what to make of it at first, but the older, wiser priest Eli recognized that something remarkable was happening. So Samuel listened to God—and, for the rest of his life, he never stopped.

• Sometimes we get a sense that in Bible times, God constantly spoke audibly to people. But note the preface the Hebrew historian gave this story: “The Lord’s word was rare at that time, and visions weren’t widely known.” What do you think gave Eli the wisdom and sensitivity to guide young Samuel? In what ways is it possible for us to “hear” God, even without an experience as dramatic as Samuel’s?
• If we read on (cf. 1 Samuel 3:11-18), we find that Samuel heard a message of divine judgment on Eli’s wicked sons, who exploited their priestly position for immoral ends. It saddened and frightened Samuel, but he faithfully delivered the message to Eli. One vital key to hearing God (even inwardly) is having a heart willing to take God seriously, to do what he commands. Can you recall a time when you needed to set aside your own plan or desire in order to follow what God wanted?