Welcome to Day 73 of Word for Word: The Bible. In this episode, we read 1 Samuel chapters 1–3, where the story of Samuel begins with the faithful prayer of Hannah and the quiet moment when God calls a young boy in the night. As Israel transitions from the period of the judges, these chapters introduce the prophet who will help guide the nation through a new era. Today’s reading includes Hannah’s heartfelt prayer for a child and her vow to dedicate him to the Lord, the birth of Samuel and his early service at the tabernacle in Shiloh, Hannah’s prayer of praise, the corruption of Eli’s sons, and the night when the Lord calls Samuel for the first time. Through these events, we see the contrast between faithful devotion and careless leadership. These chapters remind us that God hears the prayers of those who seek Him and often begins His work quietly, preparing people long before their role becomes visible. Samuel’s simple response—“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening”—becomes a powerful example of a life ready to hear and follow God’s voice.
Welcome to Day 73 of Word for Word: The Bible.
In this episode, we read 1 Samuel chapters 1–3, where the story of Samuel begins and Israel moves from the period of the judges toward a new era of leadership. What starts with the quiet faith of one woman will ultimately shape the future of the nation.
Today’s reading includes:
These chapters introduce a powerful contrast between faithful devotion and careless leadership. Hannah pours out her heart before God and keeps her promise, while Eli’s sons misuse their position and dishonor the LORD. In the middle of this contrast, a young boy quietly learns to listen when God calls.
Samuel’s response—“Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening”—becomes one of the most memorable moments in Scripture and marks the beginning of his role as a prophet in Israel.
As the book of 1 Samuel begins, we see that God often starts His work in quiet moments of faithfulness. Long before a leader becomes known to a nation, God is already shaping their heart.
If you’re following along in the Bible in a Year journey, tomorrow we continue with the next chapter in Israel’s story.
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