Eli Helps Samuel Listen

1 Samuel 3:1-21

The Big Idea

We can listen carefully and respond to God with respect. Trusted teachers and caring adults can help us understand what we are learning.

The Bible Story

Samuel Hears God’s Call

In 1 Samuel 3:1-21, Samuel served the LORD under Eli when messages from the LORD were rare and visions were uncommon. Samuel was lying down in the LORD’s temple near the ark of God, while Eli rested in his place. The LORD called, “Samuel!” Samuel answered, “Here I am,” and went to Eli, thinking Eli had called him. This happened three times. Eli then understood that the LORD was calling the boy. He told Samuel to lie down and, if called again, answer, “Speak, LORD, for your servant hears.” The LORD called Samuel again, and Samuel answered as Eli had taught him. The passage continues with a serious message about judgment on Eli’s household. Samuel later told Eli everything, hiding nothing. The LORD remained with Samuel, and all Israel recognized him as a prophet of the LORD.

Themes

Faithful service God’s word being revealed Listening for and responding to God’s call Samuel’s recognition as a prophet

Bible moment

The Bible moment

Look closely

What children can notice

After Samuel comes to Eli repeatedly, Eli realizes that the LORD is calling the boy and gently teaches him how to answer: “Speak, LORD, for your servant hears.”

Talk together

Talk about it

How did Eli help Samuel?
What does Samuel’s answer show about his attitude?

For families, church, and class

Use this page

Use this page when teaching 1 Samuel 3:6-9 or discussing listening and faithful service. Invite children to notice the repeated calls, Samuel’s willingness to respond, and Eli’s guidance. Keep the setting gentle and explain that this passage records Samuel’s calling without claiming every child will receive the same experience.

Source note

From this passage

1 Samuel 3:6-9 · God Calls Samuel

After Samuel comes to Eli repeatedly, Eli realizes that the LORD is calling the boy and gently teaches him how to answer: “Speak, LORD, for your servant hears.”