What can we learn from Samuel's experience about spiritual maturity and growth? Setting the Scene—1 Samuel 3:7 “Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, because the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.” Knowing About God vs. Knowing God • Samuel lived in the tabernacle, yet Scripture says he “did not yet know the LORD.” • Spiritual maturity begins when God’s personal revelation moves us from familiarity with religious life to firsthand relationship (cf. Jeremiah 9:23-24; John 17:3). God Initiates Growth • The Lord called Samuel repeatedly (1 Samuel 3:4–10). Maturity starts with God’s initiative, not human effort (John 6:44). • Our response—“Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening” (v. 10)—models a yielded heart that welcomes growth. The Centrality of God’s Word • Until “the word of the LORD” was revealed, Samuel remained spiritually immature. • Scripture is the primary catalyst for growth (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 19:7-11). • Regular, obedient exposure to God’s Word transforms immature hearers into mature servants (James 1:22, Hebrews 5:13-14). Progressive Revelation, Progressive Maturity • Samuel’s first experience was partial; fuller revelation followed (vv. 11-14, 19-21). • Believers grow step-by-step—light obeyed today prepares us for greater light tomorrow (Proverbs 4:18; 2 Peter 1:5-8). Serve While You Grow • Samuel was ministering “before Eli” (v. 1) even before he fully understood God’s voice. • Faithful service in small tasks creates the context for deeper encounters (Luke 16:10; Colossians 3:23-24). Humility and Teachable Spirits • Samuel sought counsel from Eli each time he was called (vv. 5-9). • Mature believers remain teachable, valuing godly mentors (Proverbs 19:20; Hebrews 13:7). Discernment Develops Over Time • Three mistaken trips to Eli preceded recognition of God’s call. • Discerning God’s voice improves with practice (John 10:27; Philippians 1:9-10). Fruit of Maturity: Reliability and Authority • “The LORD let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground” (v. 19). • As we grow, God entrusts us with messages that carry weight and blessing (1 Corinthians 4:1-2). Summary Takeaways • Relationship, not mere religion, marks spiritual maturity. • Growth is initiated by God, grounded in His Word, and cultivated through obedience, service, humility, and time. • The goal is a life so aligned with God that, like Samuel, our words and actions reflect His trustworthy truth to others. |
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