"And the Lord said to Samuel, Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle."
The Lord said to Samuel:This shows that God was directly communicating with Samuel. God often spoke to His prophets in the Old Testament to convey His messages and instructions.
Behold, I will do a thing in Israel:God informs Samuel that He is about to bring about a significant event or judgment in Israel. The "thing" here refers to a divine act or intervention.
At which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle:This phrase suggests that what God is going to do will cause astonishment and fear among the people who hear about it. It emphasizes the magnitude and impact of the forthcoming event.
Application and Lessons:
- God’s Sovereignty: This verse highlights God’s sovereignty and His ability to act in powerful ways in the affairs of nations and individuals. The "thing" God planned to do demonstrates His authority and control over His creation.
- God’s Communication: God spoke directly to Samuel, revealing His plans and intentions. In our lives, God communicates with us through His Word, prayer, and the Holy Spirit. It’s essential for us to have a receptive heart, like Samuel, to listen and discern His voice.
- God’s Judgment: The "tingling" ears mentioned in the verse indicate that God’s actions will have a profound impact. It suggests that God is about to bring judgment or execute His will. This serves as a reminder that God’s justice will prevail, and His actions should be taken seriously.
- Spiritual Awakening: Samuel’s calling and the events that follow mark the beginning of a spiritual awakening in Israel. It shows that God can use individuals, even young ones, to bring about transformation and renewal. We should be open to God’s calling in our lives and be agents of change in our spheres of influence.
- Fear of God: The astonishment and fear expressed by the people hearing about God’s plan should remind us of the importance of revering God and recognizing His power. We should approach God with reverence and humility, knowing that He is mighty and holy.
Remember to read the entire chapter of 1 Samuel 3 to gain a deeper understanding of the passage and its surrounding context.

