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1 Samuel 3:7 (BSB)
Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, because the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, because the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.” — 1 Samuel 3:7
Imagine a young boy named Samuel, still figuring out who he is and what he's meant to do. In this moment, he hasn't yet met God personally; he’s like someone waiting for a phone call that hasn’t come. There's a sense of longing and potential in the air. Samuel is on the brink of something amazing, but right now, he’s still in the dark. This verse captures that tension perfectly — it’s the moment right before a big revelation, the moment when your heart races because something wonderful is about to happen.
This book was written by someone who wanted to share the story of Samuel, likely a prophet himself. The writer included this detail to highlight Samuel's innocence and readiness to learn. By showing that Samuel didn't know God yet, it emphasizes the importance of personal relationships with the divine. It’s like saying, 'Hey, it’s okay not to have it all figured out yet!' This detail makes you root for Samuel as he steps into his destiny.
Back in the time when this was written, Israel was in a tough spot — they were trying to find their identity and direction without strong leadership. The people were looking for guidance, and God’s voice was rare. This setting matters because it shows how desperately they needed someone like Samuel, who was about to become a key figure in their history. Picture a society filled with uncertainty, and then imagine the hope that begins to rise when a new leader is called — that’s the atmosphere surrounding this moment.
This verse matters because it reminds you that everyone starts somewhere, and it’s okay not to know everything about your purpose or faith. Just like Samuel, you might feel unprepared or unsure, but that doesn’t mean you aren’t capable of great things. This moment speaks to the journey of discovery we all go through. It encourages you to stay open to new experiences and to listen for those moments when you might hear something profound that can change your life.
This week, take some time to reflect on your own journey. Find a quiet space and ask yourself what you’re curious about in your life or faith. Be open to new experiences — maybe read a book, join a group, or talk to someone you trust about your questions. Just like Samuel, you might be on the brink of discovering something amazing about yourself or your purpose, so keep your heart and mind open!
In this chapter, Samuel is being called by God, but he doesn’t recognize it yet. Leading up to this moment, he’s been serving in the temple, learning and growing. But he hasn’t experienced a personal connection with God yet. This verse sets the stage for the incredible encounter that’s about to unfold, where Samuel will hear God’s voice for the first time. It’s a turning point; it marks the beginning of his journey as a prophet. You can feel the build-up, like the quiet before a storm, where something significant is about to break through.
What does it feel like to be in a place of waiting, like Samuel, not yet knowing your purpose or calling? How can you embrace that uncertainty as part of your journey?
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