Samuel was a prophet, priest, and judge. One of the most pivotal figures in Israel’s history. Born in answer to prayer, his mother Hannah dedicated him to the Lord’s service. 1 Samuel 1:27-28 says, “For this child I prayed… therefore I also have lent him to the Lord.”
As a child, Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli. God first spoke to him in the night, and Samuel responded, “Speak, for Your servant hears” (1 Samuel 3:10). From that moment on, God established him as His prophet. 1 Samuel 3:19 says, “And the Lord let none of his words fall to the ground.”
Samuel led Israel during a time of moral and spiritual decline. He called the nation to repentance, and under his leadership, Israel returned to the Lord and saw deliverance from the Philistines (1 Samuel 7:3-10).
He anointed both Saul and David as kings, acting as a transition figure from the time of the judges to the monarchy. Samuel warned Israel of the consequences of demanding a king, saying, “You have rejected your God” (1 Samuel 10:19), yet he obeyed God’s instructions faithfully.
Samuel was a man of prayer and intercession. 1 Samuel 12:23 says, “Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you.” His heart was deeply committed to God’s people.
He died before David fully ascended to the throne (1 Samuel 25:1), but his legacy endured. His integrity, boldness, and spiritual authority marked him as one of Israel’s greatest leaders.
