Village Schools of the Bible

A Devotional Study of 1 Samuel 2
by Max Frazier, Jr.

Won't you join with me as we spend a few moments in 1 Samuel 2
focusing upon the great prayer of Hannah in praise to God.

I. Hannah's song of praise (vs. 1-11)

II. Sins of Eli's sons (vs. 12-17)

III. Samuel and his parents (vs. 18-21)

IV. Eli reprimands his sons (vs. 19-25)

V. Samuel's growth (vs. 26)

VI. Judgment against Eli's family (vs. 27-36)

The prevailing theme in Hannah's prayer is the sovereignty of God. It is a testimony of her confidence in God. She begins with a strong statement about the uniqueness of God (verse 2). She states there is no one like the Lord...no one. God has no substitute. God has no replacement. God has no superior or anyone His equal. God is God and God alone! The remainder of her prayer is a series of statements that further affirm this uniqueness of God. She refers to His omniscience (verse 3), His omnipotence (verse 4), His sovereignty (verses 6-7), His provision (verse 8), and His protection (verse 9). God is to be exalted and praised. His name is to be lifted up. We are to worship Him for who He is. I don't know what theological school Hannah attended, but she certainly knew her God. I wonder if I know Him as well.

Secondly, Eli's sons had a total disrespect toward the things of God. They were arrogant toward the sacrifices. And they were abusive of those who came to sacrifice. When they performed the services of a priest it was not to please God but to satisfy their own desires. I wonder how often we do the same in worship? We approach God selfishly. We come not to give but to get. We act with a similar arrogance as did Eli's sons. What a contrast to Samuel whom the text declares ministered before the Lord. Do we serve the Lord or ourselves? That really is the important question to ask ourselves as we approach God in worship.

1Samuel 1 Return to the Table of Contents 1Samuel 3