The Book of 1 Samuel is the ninth book of the Bible and marks a significant transition in Israel’s history.
It tells the rise of Samuel as a prophet, the reign of King Saul, and the introduction of David as Israel’s future king.
The book highlights themes of obedience, leadership, and God’s sovereignty.
Let’s explore the key events and lessons from 1 Samuel.
1. The Birth & Calling of Samuel (1 Samuel 1-3)
The book begins with Hannah, a barren woman, praying for a son. God answers her prayer, and she gives birth to Samuel, dedicating him to serve at the Tabernacle.
Key Highlights:
- Hannah prays for a child and vows to dedicate him to God.
- Samuel grows up under Eli, the priest.
- God calls Samuel in the night, saying, “Samuel! Samuel!” making him a prophet.
Lesson: God hears our prayers and calls people for His purposes.
2. The Ark of the Covenant is Captured (1 Samuel 4-7)
Israel goes to war with the Philistines and loses the Ark of the Covenant due to their disobedience.
Key Highlights:
- Eli’s sons (corrupt priests) take the Ark into battle, but Israel is defeated.
- The Ark is captured by the Philistines, but they suffer plagues.
- The Ark is eventually returned to Israel.
Lesson: Victory comes from trusting God, not religious symbols.
3. Israel Demands a King (1 Samuel 8-10)
Israel rejects God as their king and demands a human king. God allows it but warns of consequences.
Key Highlights:
- Samuel warns that a king will oppress them with taxes and war.
- Saul is chosen as Israel’s first king, anointed by Samuel.
Lesson: God gives us free will but warns of consequences.
4. King Saul’s Rise & Fall (1 Samuel 11-15)
Saul starts as a strong leader but disobeys God, leading to his downfall.
Key Highlights:
- Saul defeats Israel’s enemies but later disobeys God’s commands.
- Saul offers an unauthorized sacrifice, showing impatience.
- God rejects Saul as king, saying, “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22).
Lesson: Partial obedience is still disobedience in God’s eyes.
5. David is Anointed as Future King (1 Samuel 16)
God sends Samuel to anoint David, a young shepherd, as the next king.
Key Highlights:
- God chooses David, saying, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).
- David serves as Saul’s musician, calming his troubled spirit.
Lesson: God values the heart over outward appearances.
6. David & Goliath – Faith Over Fear (1 Samuel 17)
David, though a shepherd boy, defeats the giant Goliath with faith in God.
Key Highlights:
- Goliath, a Philistine warrior, challenges Israel.
- David kills Goliath with a slingshot, declaring, “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47).
Lesson: Faith in God is greater than any obstacle we face.
7. Saul’s Jealousy & Persecution of David (1 Samuel 18-26)
Saul becomes jealous of David’s success, trying to kill him multiple times.
Key Highlights:
- David becomes popular, causing Saul’s anger.
- Saul attempts to kill David, forcing David to flee.
- David has opportunities to kill Saul but chooses mercy, saying, “I will not lay my hand on the Lord’s anointed” (1 Samuel 24:6).
Lesson: Trusting God’s timing is better than taking matters into our own hands.
8. The Death of Saul & Jonathan (1 Samuel 28-31)
Saul seeks guidance from a witch, showing his spiritual downfall. Eventually, he dies in battle against the Philistines.
Key Highlights:
- Saul consults a medium, violating God’s law.
- Saul and his son Jonathan are killed in battle.
- David mourns Saul despite their conflict.
Lesson: Disobedience leads to destruction, but God’s plan continues.
Final Thoughts
The Book of 1 Samuel shows the rise and fall of leaders, teaching us that obedience to God is more important than human power. Through David’s faithfulness, we see how God prepares His chosen ones for great things.
