Spiritual state of Eli

September 6th, 2024
by Jon Holaday

1 Samuel 3:8 And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. So he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here I am, for you did call me.
Then Eli perceived that the Lord had called the boy. 9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, go lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
10 Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, Samuel! Samuel!
And Samuel answered, Speak, for Your servant hears.

What a great story. Eli, the matured priest of the LORD, was totally oblivious of the LORD at work. Samuel hears the voice of God 3 times while sleeping that would awaken him. Samuel, still young, thinks its Eli calling. Eli doesn't pick up on this being from the LORD until the third time. At least Eli figured it out! This tells me why the Word of the LORD was rare in those days, you have a priest who couldn't discern spiritual matters. What an answer though, Speak LORD, for your servant is listening. LORD, please never give up on me when I don't understand its You speaking. Have mercy and grace upon me. Im Your servant & listening.