The book of 1 Samuel is full of action, drama, and deep lessons from God. It introduces us to some of the most important figures in Israel’s history—Samuel, Saul, and David. Through this book, we see how God raises up leaders, judges hearts, and remains faithful even when people fail.
1. 1 Samuel Begins with a Barren Woman's Prayer
The story begins with Hannah, a woman who could not have children. She cried out to God, and He heard her.
“And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed to the Lord and wept in anguish.” —1 Samuel 1:10
God answered her prayer and gave her a son, Samuel, whom she dedicated to the Lord.
2. Samuel Was Called by God as a Young Boy
Samuel grew up in the temple, serving under Eli the priest. One night, God spoke directly to him.
“Then the Lord called Samuel. And he answered, ‘Here I am!’” —1 Samuel 3:4
This was the beginning of Samuel’s ministry as a prophet and leader in Israel.
3. The Ark of the Covenant Was Captured
In a major loss for Israel, the Philistines captured the Ark of the Covenant.
“So the Philistines fought, and Israel was defeated, and every man fled to his tent... Also the ark of God was captured.” —1 Samuel 4:10-11
But the Ark brought plagues on the Philistines, and they eventually sent it back.
4. Israel Demanded a King, Rejecting God’s Rule
The people of Israel asked for a king so they could be like other nations.
“They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.” —1 Samuel 8:7
This led to the anointing of Saul, the first king of Israel.
5. Saul Was Chosen for His Appearance, Not His Heart
Saul stood out—literally.
“From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people.” —1 Samuel 9:2
Yet, while he looked like a king, his heart often strayed from obedience to God.
6. God Rejected Saul for Disobedience
Saul lost God's favor after disobeying a direct command to destroy the Amalekites completely.
“Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king.” —1 Samuel 15:23
This marked the turning point in Saul’s kingship.
7. David Was Anointed in Secret
While Saul was still king, God chose a new one—David, a shepherd boy.
“Arise, anoint him; for this is the one!” —1 Samuel 16:12
God told Samuel that man looks at the outward appearance, but He looks at the heart.
8. David Defeated Goliath with a Sling
One of the most famous stories in the Bible is in 1 Samuel—David defeating Goliath.
“Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead... and he fell on his face to the earth.” —1 Samuel 17:49
David trusted God completely and won the battle.
9. David and Jonathan Formed a Deep Friendship
Jonathan, Saul’s son, became David’s closest friend, even though David would take the throne instead of him.
“The soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.” —1 Samuel 18:1
Their friendship was marked by loyalty, honesty, and trust.
10. Saul Consulted a Medium Before His Death
In desperation, Saul sought a medium to speak with the dead prophet Samuel—something God had clearly forbidden.
“So Saul died for his unfaithfulness... and also because he consulted a medium for guidance.” —1 Chronicles 10:13
This act was one of many signs of Saul’s downfall.
Quick Summary Table
| Fact | Key Verse | Lesson |
|---|---|---|
| Hannah’s Prayer | 1 Samuel 1:10 | God hears humble cries |
| Samuel’s Call | 1 Samuel 3:4 | God calls the willing |
| Ark Captured | 1 Samuel 4:10 | God’s presence is holy |
| Israel Demands King | 1 Samuel 8:7 | God should be our King |
| Saul’s Looks | 1 Samuel 9:2 | Outward looks deceive |
| Saul’s Rejection | 1 Samuel 15:23 | Obedience matters |
| David Anointed | 1 Samuel 16:12 | God sees the heart |
| David vs. Goliath | 1 Samuel 17:49 | Faith defeats fear |
| David & Jonathan | 1 Samuel 18:1 | True friendship is loyal |
| Saul’s Medium Visit | 1 Chronicles 10:13 | Disobedience has cost |
