“Then Samuel told him everything, and hid nothing from him.” (v.18a)
(From the archives)
In our reading today we see how Samuel, was obedient and responsive to God’s call. The cultural context here was the time of the judges, when the people did evil and sinned against the Lord (Judges 21:25). In fact, our reading today says, “In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions” (v.1).
Therefore, when Samuel first heard God calling him, he thought it was the priest Eli, so he went to him. Eli eventually realized (after this happened three times) that the Lord was calling Samuel and instructed him how to respond. Therefore, when the Lord called him again, he responded, “Speak, for Your servant hears” (vv. 9-10).
The word that Samuel received from God wasn't cheery. Understandably, Samuel was reluctant to repeat the message to Eli, but, he honestly recounted the word of the Lord even though it contained the prophecy of the destruction of Eli's family, as judgment for their sin.
We too must be willing to obey and respond to whatever God calls us to say. Even if the truth the LORD gives us, is painful to proclaim. Therefore, speak the truth in love but do not hold back truth.
The Truth: “He who speaks truth declares righteousness, But a false witness, deceit.” (Proverbs 12:17)
