1. Eli's wicked sons and Samuel (12-26)

Eli's sons were priests, but they acted like unbelievers. They used their office to satisfy their personal greed and their flesh desires. They showed utter disregard for the Lord (2:12-17;22-25). By contrast, Samuel was growing up in the presence of the Lord (18-21,26). Eli rebuked his sons, but they did not listen. Why? He honored his sons more than he honored God (29b).

2. I will raise up a faithful priest (27-36)

A man of God visited Eli with a message from God. God had promised Eli's forefathers that his descendants would minister before the Lord forever. But God's promises must be claimed by obedient faith from generation to generation. Eli and his sons had forfeited the privilege of serving as priests. God would raise up for himself a faithful priest. Samuel partially fulfilled this; but Jesus our great high priest is the faithful priest God promised.

Application: Lord, teach me to honor you by giving you first place in my heart.
One Word: Those who honor me I will honor