Samuel Hears God's Voice
Young Samuel served in God's house with Eli the priest. One night God called Samuel's name. Eli helped him answer, 'Speak, for your servant hears.'
You will learn to...
- Retell how God called young Samuel.
- Learn Samuel's answer: 'Speak, for your servant hears.'
- Understand that God speaks to and uses children.
Words to know
- Prophet
- Someone who speaks God's messages.
- Priest
- Someone who served God in worship and helped people come to God.
Read the full lesson (for older kids and grown-ups)
Samuel was a boy who served the Lord at the house of God in Shiloh, helping an old priest named Eli.
One night, as Samuel lay down, he heard someone call, 'Samuel!' He ran to Eli, but Eli hadn't called him. This happened three times. Then Eli realised it was the Lord calling Samuel.
Eli told Samuel to answer, 'Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.' When God called again, Samuel answered that way and listened. Samuel grew up, and the Lord was with him. Everyone came to know that Samuel was a prophet of the Lord.
God cares about children and can use them. Today, Christians listen to God mainly by reading the Bible, praying, and learning from wise, trusted grown-ups.
Yahweh came, and stood, and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel said, “Speak; for your servant hears.”
Family conversation starters
- How does our family listen to God?
- Who are wise people that help you understand God?
Main people: Samuel · Topics: Listening to God, Prayer, Children matter to God · Review status: awaiting theological review