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1 Samuel-3

Called by God: A Devotional Study on 1 Samuel 3​

Introduction​

The story of Samuel in 1 Samuel 3 serves as a powerful account of God's calling upon a young boy's life. It is a narrative that speaks of God's faithfulness, His ability to see potential in us before we are aware of it, and the importance of obedience in following His lead.

Section 1: Introduction (1 Samuel 3:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: Eli, as a priest, served the Lord throughout his entire life. However, his sons disobeyed the Lord, resulting in judgment. God's faithfulness remained, and Eli's young apprentice, Samuel, allowed the Lord to see something in him that he was yet to discover in himself. Truly, we are called by God's faithfulness alone.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there areas of your life where your actions have resulted in judgment and disobedience, as in Eli's sons?
  • Consider how God's faithfulness and love persist regardless of our disobedience.

Section 2: Called by Night (1 Samuel 3:3-10)​

Devotional Thought: One night, God called Samuel. As a young boy, Samuel didn't recognize the voice of God, but Eli did. This story demonstrates that God speaks in office, both through leaders and circumstances. Today, reflect on how we can listen more attentively and discern the voice of God speaking through the people and situations in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you listening intently enough to hear and discern the voice of God speaking through your leaders and circumstances?
  • What steps can you take to develop a greater sensitivity to the moving of the Holy Spirit?

Section 3: Confirmation by Day (1 Samuel 3:11-21)​

Devotional Thought: God confirmed His calling on Samuel through His prophetic word. This is a poignant reminder that God's confirmation is tangible and can be experienced through prophetic words and affirmation from others. Consider those in your life who have spoken prophetic words over you, how they have edified and encouraged you.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there people in your life who have spoken prophetic words over you, edifying and encouraging you?
  • How can you encourage and build up those around you who may be experiencing a call from God in their lives?

Section 4: Consecration by God (1 Samuel 3:22)​

Devotional Thought: Eli instructed Samuel to consecrate himself due to the divine revelation he had received. This means casting himself aside as a burnt offering on an altar, surrendering everything to God. It is a poignant lesson on how we must consecrate ourselves to God, giving our lives fully over to Him in complete surrender.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you fully surrendered to God, casting yourself aside as a burnt offering, ready for His work to unfold?
  • Ask yourself what practices and habits separate you from being entirely surrendered to God.

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional study of 1 Samuel 3, let's approach our connection with God in a very new light. Let us remember that our connection with God, our callings, and our surrenders begin not with us but with God's faithfulness alone. Today, may we find the courage to be obedient to God's lead, hearkening to His voice, and becoming more consecrated to Him in our daily lives.