Listening to God's Voice

Samuel was working in the temple helping the aged

priest, Eli. One night, the Lord called to Samuel three times. Thinking it was Eli calling him, each time, Samuel went to the elderly priest. After the third time, Eli recognized that it was God calling Samuel and he told the boy to listen to what the Lord was saying.

In the morning, when they awoke, Samuel relayed the message that Eli’s house will be punished because of his sons. Eli’s reply was one of acceptance. He stated in verse 18, “It is the Lord. Let him do what seems good to him.” Even though Eli received news he did not want to hear, he was able to respond in faith, knowing that God’s will was best.