How does Eli's response in 1 Samuel 3:18 demonstrate submission to God's will? Setting the scene 1 Samuel 3 describes the first time the LORD speaks to young Samuel. The message is a sobering prophecy of judgment on Eli’s household because of the unchecked sin of his sons (1 Samuel 2:12–17, 22–25). When Samuel reluctantly reports everything, the text records Eli’s response: “‘He is the LORD,’ Eli replied. ‘Let Him do what is good in His eyes.’” (1 Samuel 3:18) The key phrase: “He is the LORD” • Eli begins by acknowledging God’s identity and authority. • By placing “He” first, the statement centers God, not Eli’s feelings or reputation. • The definite article (“the LORD”) underscores that there is no rival: Yahweh alone rules. Marks of submission in Eli’s response • Acceptance, not argument – Eli does not contest the verdict or seek to soften it. – Similar to Job’s surrender: “Though He slay me, I will hope in Him” (Job 13:15). • Trust in divine goodness – “Do what is good in His eyes” reflects confidence that God’s actions are inherently right (Deuteronomy 32:4). – His trust mirrors David’s attitude when fleeing Jerusalem: “Let Him do to me what seems good to Him” (2 Samuel 15:26). • Humility before judgment – Eli had authority as high priest, yet he bows to higher authority. – Proverbs 3:34: “He mocks the mockers, but gives grace to the humble.” Eli aligns with humility. • Silence instead of self-defense – No excuses, blame-shifting, or plea bargains. – Echoes Isaiah 30:15, “In quietness and trust shall be your strength.” Supporting Scripture examples of submission • Job 1:21 – “The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” • Luke 1:38 – Mary: “I am the Lord’s servant… May it be to me according to your word.” • Matthew 26:39 – Jesus: “Yet not as I will, but as You will.” • Hebrews 12:9 – “Shall we not much more submit to the Father of spirits and live?” Lessons for believers today • Recognize God’s sovereign right to rule every circumstance. • Trust that even hard providences are “good in His eyes” and therefore ultimately good. • Respond with humble quietness rather than resistance or complaint. • Remember that submission springs from faith in God’s character, not fatalism. Eli’s brief sentence becomes a model of surrender: acknowledging God’s lordship, trusting His goodness, and yielding without reservation—even when the message is painful. |
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