Scripture
As Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him, and everything Samuel said proved to be reliable.

Observation
Samuel had been handed over by his mother to serve in the Tabernacle. One night, as Samuel is sleeping, he hears a voice calling him. Thinking it is Eli calling, he hurries off to find him. But Eli is not the source of the voice.

Three times this happens, and finally Eli realises that it is the Lord. He instructs Samuel to reply “Speak Lord, your servant is listening.

So the Lord gives Samuel a confirmation of an earlier prophecy of judgement on Eli and his family. God has vowed to not forgive Eli and his sons for their sinful ways.

The next morning Eli presses Samuel to reveal the word from the Lord which Samuel does, speaking truthfully.

Samuel becomes known as a man who hears and speaks reliably.

Application
The chapter starts by telling us that words and visions from the Lord were uncommon in that time. Samuel sleeps in the place of God's presence and hears the voice of God, but Eli who sleeps at some distance away never heard God's voice.

If we want to hear from God, we need to position ourselves for that. This is not about geography but rather setting our hearts in the right place. We have to set apart time ot seek God's presence.

Samuel's first experience is a word of judgement against Eli, his guardian. This is a big test of character and cures Samuel of any tendency to please people with favourable words.

To hear God, we have to settle our hearts and minds on listening to Him and on obeying Him at all costs.

Prayer
Help me Lord to listen for your still small voice and to always be faithful to you. Amen.