1 Samuel (1 Sam)
The ninth Old Testament book, having 31 Chapters. Written about 1000 BC, the author of this historical book was probably the prophet Samuel though others contributed. Time to read 2 hrs 30 mins.
1 Samuel begins during the period of the judges when "everyone did as they saw fit" (Judges 21:25). The Philistines, Israel's primary enemies during this period, had gained military superiority and captured the Ark of the Covenant (1 Sam 4). This national crisis created pressure for Israel to have a king "like all the other nations" (1 Sam 8:5), despite God being their true king. The transition from judges to kings marked a significant shift in Israel's governance and relationship with God.
This book records Israel's transition from being led by God (theocracy) to human rule (monarchy). At this time the influence of the priesthood declined and God raised up prophets as his spokesmen. He still wanted each individual to have a genuine heart and life commitment to Him – as He does even today.
Eli the priest raised the boy Samuel. He had been born to Hannah (an infertile woman) who promised to give him to God's service out of gratitude for his birth. Under God's direction Samuel anointed Israel's first king – Saul – who started well but disobeyed and was rejected by God (1 Sam 15:23,26). Samuel then anointed David, "a man after God's own heart" (1 Sam 15:28; Act 13:22). David, acknowledging the source of his ability – "I come in the name of the Lord" – defeated Goliath (1 Sam 17:45). Saul actively sought to kill David and even though there were opportunities given for David to bring about God's promise quickly he never forced the situation but waited patiently for God's timing (1 Sam 24:6,10, 26:11). Later, Saul's son Jonathan and David developed a close relationship (1 Sam 18:1, 20:17).
The narrative reveals the contrast between Saul and David. Saul, the tall and impressive first king, repeatedly disobeyed God's commands, making excuses for his actions (1 Sam 13:8-14, 15:13-21). David, though physically unimpressive, demonstrated humility, faith, and obedience even when he had opportunities to seize power. This contrast highlights God's perspective that "the Lord looks at the heart" (1 Sam 16:7).
The book explores several key themes: the nature of true leadership, the importance of obedience over ritual, the sovereignty of God in human affairs, and the development of messianic expectation. The anointing of David establishes the Davidic covenant (2 Sam 7), which becomes foundational for messianic hope throughout the Old Testament.
Initial and complete obedience is better than repentance after sinning (1 Sam 15:22). Thinking before acting would save us all a lot of heartache!
* "The Lord looks at the heart not the outward appearance" (1 Sam 16:7). We also should not be impressed by physical exteriors, but rather the inner, character qualities. While we should maintain our bodies the emphasis should be on developing His nature in our lives (1 Tim 4:8; 1 Pet 3:3,4). This principle applies to how we evaluate others and ourselves in spiritual leadership and personal growth.
* Saul became jealous when the people compared him unfavourably to David; he could not accept that David was more popular than he was and it became a compelling power in his life to kill David (1 Sam 18:7-30). Emotions are powerful motivators that need to be kept in control and processed in an acceptable manner so they don't ruin our life, and maybe others too. Are my emotions causing me to act irrationally? Unaddressed jealousy can lead to destructive patterns that affect not only ourselves but those around us.
* David did not retaliate or try to speed up God's purposes, but kept his heart right while waiting for God's correct time (1 Sam 24:10-12, 26:8-11). In contrast, Abraham tried to assist in bringing about God's promises, but this resulted in a problem with the consequences still in effect today, as evidenced in the Jew and Arab conflict (Gal 4:29). Patience is one of the fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22). Am I allowing it and other good qualities to develop in my life by co-operating with God to outwork His plans for me according to His timing? David's restraint demonstrates remarkable faith and trust in God's sovereignty.
* The contrast between Samuel's faithful service and Eli's failure as a priest (1 Sam 2:12-17, 22-25, 3:13) highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and accountability. Eli knew about his sons' wickedness but failed to restrain them, resulting in judgment on his household. This serves as a warning to spiritual leaders about the consequences of tolerating sin in their families and communities.
* Hannah's prayer (1 Sam 2:1-10) is one of the most significant passages in the book, expressing deep theological insight about God's character and His reversal of human fortunes. Her song anticipates Mary's Magnificat (Lk 1:46-55) and reveals God's heart for the humble and oppressed. Her personal victory over barrenness becomes a metaphor for God's ability to bring life from impossible situations.
* The capture of the Ark by the Philistines (1 Sam 4) and its return (1 Sam 5-6) demonstrate that God's presence cannot be manipulated or controlled by religious symbols. The Philistines discover that the God of Israel is not just another local deity but the sovereign Lord who judges and demonstrates His power even among pagan nations.
- When facing challenges, trust God's timing rather than taking matters into your own hands, just as David refrained from killing Saul despite having opportunities (1 Sam 24, 26). This teaches us patience and faith in God's sovereignty over our lives.
- Cultivate a heart that honors God above external appearances or societal expectations, remembering that "the Lord looks at the heart" (1 Sam 16:7). This perspective should guide how we evaluate ourselves and others in spiritual matters.
- Address negative emotions like jealousy promptly before they take root and lead to destructive behaviors, learning from Saul's downward spiral when he became envious of David's success (1 Sam 18:6-9). Emotional health is essential for spiritual leadership.
See also: anointed, character, David, Eli, emotions, Hannah, Jonathan, Samuel, 2 Samuel, Saul, time/timing, ark of the covenant, prophet, kingship, anointing.