The books of 1st and 2nd Samuel feature three leaders appointed by God:
- Samuel is the bridge from chaos (Judges 21:5) to the new order of a kingdom (1 Samuel 8:22).
- Saul is the first king of Israel, but a disappointment to God (1 Samuel 15).
- David “reigned over all Israel. And David administered justice and equity to all his people” (2 Samuel 8:15).
The story of Samuel’s birth involves two men and two women.
- Elkanah is the head of his family (1 Samuel 1:1-5, 21) and has two wives.
- The first wife is Peninnah who has children and despises…
- Hannah who is barren (1 Samuel 1:2).
- Eli is the high priest who predicts Samuel’s birth (1 Samuel 1:17).
In answer to Hannah’s fervent prayers, God gives her a son, Samuel. True to her vow—supported by her husband—Hannah dedicates Samuel to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:11, 28). Thus, Samuel grows up serving Eli at the sacred tent.