Last week, we looked at Samson, who was Israel’s final judge in the book of Judges. But right after that time, a man named Samuel is raised by God to serve as the last judge (1st Samuel 7:5-6, 15-16) and the anointer of the kings (1st Samuel 10 & 16) who would rule over God’s people in the judges’ place. He was also the first prophet (1st Samuel 3:20) and a Nazarite (1st Samuel 1:11) like Samson.

Samuel’s birth was miraculous (1st Samuel 1:1-20) and his place as an important man in Israel began when he was very young! You see, when his mother Hannah couldn’t have children, she prayed to God asking for a son. She promised that the boy, if given to her by God, would be given back to Him.

1st Samuel 1:11b | He will be yours for his entire lifetime…

God gives Hannah a son and just as she promised, when the boy was old enough, she brought the boy to Eli, the priest.

1st Samuel 1:26-28 | “Sir, do you remember me?” Hannah asked. “I am the very woman who stood here several years ago praying to the Lord. I asked the Lord to give me this boy, and he has granted my request. Now I am giving him to the Lord, and he will belong to the Lord his whole life.” And they worshiped the Lord there.
As Samuel grew older, he remained in the temple with Eli.

Watch to discover what we can learn from Samuel.

Family Discussion:
What are some unique or special things about Samuel?
Samuel marked a transition or change in the way God’s people were led.
Who led God’s people before Samuel?
Who led God’s people after Samuel?
How did Samuel know how to lead God’s people through this transition?
Who now leads God’s people?
Learning from Samuel’s example, how can you be sure you are hearing and following God’s instructions?