Growing in Favor with God and People

By Romina Chevren

“But Samuel was ministering before the Lord—a boy wearing a linen ephod. . . . And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people.”—1 Samuel 2:18, 26 (NIV)

This passage offers a striking contrast between two types of lives: the corrupt and self-indulgent sons of Eli and young Samuel, who faithfully served before the Lord. Eli’s sons were priests by title, but they dishonored their calling through sinful behavior, exploiting their position for personal gain. In contrast, Samuel, though just a child, ministered to God with sincerity, humility, and dedication. His life reminds us that faithfulness and obedience matter deeply to God, no matter our age or circumstances.

Samuel’s wearing of the linen ephod—a garment typically reserved for priests—symbolizes his role in God’s service even as a boy. This detail is significant because it shows how God values availability and a willing heart over age, status, or experience. Samuel wasn’t born into a priestly family like Eli’s sons, but he was chosen by God because of his faithfulness. His life stands as a testament to what happens when we commit ourselves fully to serving the Lord, even in the smallest ways.

Verse 26, which describes Samuel as growing “in stature and in favor with the Lord and with people,” highlights the holistic nature of his growth. Samuel’s life wasn’t just about personal piety or public reputation—he grew in both. His faithfulness to God shaped his character, allowing him to influence others positively while maintaining a deep connection with the Lord. This balance is crucial for us today. Spiritual growth should not isolate us from others; instead, it should make us more loving, humble, and approachable.

Samuel’s growth occurred in a challenging environment. The spiritual climate of his time was dark, and the leaders closest to him, Eli’s sons, were poor examples of godliness. Yet Samuel remained steadfast. This reminds us that our growth in faith isn’t dependent on the actions of others or the environment around us. Whether we’re surrounded by spiritual vitality or corruption, we can choose to walk faithfully with God, trusting Him to guide our steps.

This passage encourages us to reflect on our own growth. Are we, like Samuel, growing steadily in our relationship with God and in how we interact with others? Are we allowing God to shape our character so we can reflect His light to the world? Growth isn’t instantaneous—it’s a daily process of surrender, trust, and obedience. Even when the world around us feels dark or discouraging, God honors our faithfulness and uses it to draw us closer to Him and make an impact on those around us.

Samuel’s story reminds us that God honors faithfulness. Let’s seek to grow steadily in our walk with Him, reflecting His love in all we do.

Pause:

· Reflect on how your life reflects your relationship with God. Are you growing steadily in favor with Him and with others?

· Consider the environment around you. Are you staying faithful to God even in spiritually challenging situations?

Practice:

1. Daily Humility: Like Samuel, find one way to serve God today (e.g., help someone in need, spend focused time in prayer, or offer encouragement to someone around you).

2. Commit to Growth: Choose one area of spiritual discipline (prayer, Bible study, worship, etc.) and make it a priority this week.

3. Be a Light: Be mindful of how your actions reflect Christ. Seek to honor God in your words and deeds, letting others see His love through you.

Pray: Lord, thank You for Samuel’s example of faithfulness and steady growth. Help me to remain humble and obedient, even when the world around me is dark or discouraging. Teach me to grow in favor with You and with others, living a life that reflects Your love and faithfulness. Strengthen me to serve You with joy and to make a difference for Your glory. Amen.