Almighty Yet Considerate - FATHERLY CONSIDERATION FOR A BOY

Samuel began "ministering to Jehovah"  at the tabernacle at a very young age.  (1 Samuel 3:1) One night after Samuel had retired, something most unusual  happened. (Read 1 Samuel 3:2-10.)  He heard a voice call him by name.  Thinking that it was the voice of High Priest Eli, Samuel obediently ran to him and said:  "Here I am, for you called me.   Eli denied doing so.  When the same thing happened two more times, Eli realized it was God who was calling Samuel.  So he told the boy how to respond, and Samuel obeyed.  Why did Jehovah, by means of his angel, not reveal himself to Samuel on the first occasion? The Bible does not say, but the events unfolded suggests that consideration for young Samuel was an important factor.  How so? 

Read 1 Samuel 3:11-18. Jehovah's Law commanded children to respect the aged, especially  a chieftain.  (Exodus 22:28; Leviticus 19:32)  Can you imagine Samuel going up to Eli in the morning and boldly telling him God's stinging judgment message?  Of course not!  Indeed, the account  tells us that Samuel "was afraid to tell Eli the."  However, God made clear to Eli that he was calling.  As a  result, Eli took charge of the situation and told Samuel to speak.   "[Do not] hide  from me a single word of all that he said to you," Eli commanded.  Samuel obediently "told him everything." 

Samuel's message would not have been a complete surprise to Eli.  It harmonized with that of an unarmed  "man of God" who had earlier spoken to the high priest.  ( 1 Samuel 2:27-36)  The account involving Samuel and Eli shows us how considerate and wise Jehovah is. 

Are you a young person?  If so, the account about young Samuel shows that Jehovah understand the challenges you face and how you feel.  Perhaps  you are shy and find it hard to share the Kingdom message with adults or to stand out as different among your peers.  Be assured that Jehovah wants to help you.  So pour out your heart to him in prayer.  (Psalm 62:8) Reflect on Bible example of such young ones as Samuel. And talk with fellow Christians-young or old-who may have overcome challenges like those you are facing.  Indeed, they may tell you about times when Jehovah came to their aid, perhaps in ways that they had not expected. 

Next time: Almighty Yet Considerate- CONSIDERATION FOR MOSES

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