As one reads about the life of Samuel in 1 Samuel, there are many life lessons one can apply to his or her own life. Here are four life lessons from Samuel that every Christian can use to help someone to be a better Christian.
First, we can learn the power of prayer. In 1 Samuel 1, we see Hannah could not have children, and so, she prayed fervently for a son. God answered that prayer by providing Hannah with Samuel. Samuel continued the discipline of prayer. We read about Samuel praying for Israel in 1 Samuel 12:23, where Samuel stated, “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you in the good and the right way” (NKJV).
May we have the confidence and faith as Hannah and Samuel did when they talked to God in prayer. James 1:6 reminds us, “But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind.” May we pray with confidence and faith.
Second, we can learn how to be faithful to the Lord. Samuel grew up knowing the Lord, and the Lord used Samuel to do His will (1 Samuel 3:19). Samuel never fell away from the Lord. Samuel remained steadfast in his faith and devotion. What an example for us, especially when we understand that people of faith in Samuel’s day were rare! Today it may seem that followers of God are in the minority, and there are very few of us keeping the faith. Maybe this is how it always has been, but we must keep in mind that just like Samuel, we can be faithful to the Lord despite the majority of people not following Him.
Third, we can learn obedience. As Samuel grew to know the Lord, he learned to be obedient. First Samuel 3:19 tells us, “So Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground.” Samuel never failed to do the will of the Lord.
In this world, it is hard to sometimes do the right thing, to even obey God. However, Samuel reminds us we can obey God, even when it seems difficult. In fact, we must keep in mind that it is always right to obey God (1 Samuel 15:22).
Fourth, we can learn how not to raise our children. If there is one flaw in the life of Samuel, it is that he failed to guide his children in the ways of the Lord (1 Samuel 8:3). It seems he followed in the footsteps of Eli in the way he raised his sons, who were worthless and evil (1 Samuel 2:12). It is very easy, especially for spiritual leaders, who spend their time helping teach and lead others to the Lord, to neglect their own families.
Parents have the responsibility to teach their children the ways of the Lord and to set a godly example before them (Ephesians 6:1-4; Deuteronomy 6:7). If we do not teach our children the ways of the Lord, then who will? May we lead our families in all the ways of the Lord and not neglect their spiritual wellbeing.
Prayer, faithfulness to the Lord, obedience and raising godly children are four lessons we can learn by studying the life of Samuel. Hebrews 11:32 depicts Samuel as a person of faith; for what will you be known? God needs people like Samuel today, people who are willing to give their loyalty and devotion to the Lord all the days of their lives. Will you give loyalty and devotion to the Lord all the days of your life?
