“And Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.”
Context:Before delving into the specific verse, it’s important to understand the context in which it appears. 1 Samuel is a book in the Old Testament that recounts the transition of leadership from the period of judges to the establishment of kingship in Israel. In chapter 3, Samuel, who would become a prominent prophet and judge in Israel, receives a call from God during his time serving in the tabernacle under Eli the priest.
Spiritual Growth:The verse begins by stating that Samuel grew. This growth can be understood both physically and spiritually. Physically, Samuel was likely growing in age, but more importantly, he was also growing in his relationship with God. As he faithfully served in the tabernacle, the Lord was with him. This highlights the significance of personal growth in our walk with God, as we develop in character, faith, and understanding of His ways.
Divine Presence:The statement “the Lord was with him” emphasizes the divine presence in Samuel’s life. It signifies that God’s favour and guidance were evident in Samuel’s journey. The presence of God is a precious gift and assurance for any believer. It grants wisdom, strength, and comfort, enabling individuals to fulfill their purpose and calling.
Effectiveness of God’s Word:The latter part of the verse highlights an intriguing characteristic of Samuel’s words. It states that “none of his words fall to the ground.” This implies that Samuel’s prophetic utterances carried weight and were fulfilled. God honoured Samuel’s words by bringing them to pass. This reflects the authority and accuracy of Samuel’s role as a prophet, as well as the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises.
Application:As we reflect on this verse, several lessons emerge. Firstly, our growth in faith and character is a lifelong journey. Like Samuel, we should continually seek to grow spiritually and cultivate a deeper relationship with God. Secondly, recognising and acknowledging God’s presence in our lives is essential. God desires to be intimately involved in our journey, guiding and empowering us. Lastly, the effectiveness of our words, particularly when they align with God’s will, can have a powerful impact. We should strive to speak words of truth, encouragement, and edification, trusting that God can bring about their fulfilment.
