We are living in a very blessed time—yet when we look at the world, we see turmoil, instability, and growing darkness. And Scripture teaches that things will intensify. So why call this a “blessed time”?

Because we are living nearly 2,000 years after the cross. And it is only through the cross—through the death, burial, and resurrection of Messiah Yeshua—that the judgment of G-d can be removed from us and we can be welcomed into His Kingdom. There is no other way for humanity to experience the blessings and promises of G-d. To reject the cross is to reject the only hope that rescues us from judgment and grants Kingdom hope.

With that foundation, we turn to 1 Samuel chapter 3, a sobering passage that teaches a timeless truth: G-d may delay judgment, but His judgment will come—on His timing, and in His way.

The Judgment Coming to Eli’s House

In 1 Samuel 3, G-d reveals to the young Samuel that judgment is coming to the house of Eli. Why? Because Eli knew the sin of his sons—yet he did not restrain them. He did not bring correction, call for repentance, or lead them to honor the commandments of G-d. And because of this failure, G-d announces a decisive judgment.

The text begins with a strong statement:

“Behold, I am doing a thing in Israel…” (1 Samuel 3:11)

The use of the present tense emphasizes significance. What G-d is about to do is not minor; it is weighty and unforgettable—something that will cause all who hear it to be shaken to the core. The passage uses an idiom: “both ears will tingle,” expressing the impact of the event. It will be heard widely, and it will reverberate through Israel.

Then we encounter a familiar Hebrew phrase tied to judgment:

“On that day…” (1 Samuel 3:12)

This expression signals that G-d will rise up thoroughly—“from beginning to end”—and nothing guilty will escape. Judgment will be complete.

Judgment with a Kingdom Purpose

The passage also teaches that G-d’s judgment is not random or emotional. It is righteous, and it carries Kingdom implications. Scripture consistently shows that G-d uses judgment to bring about a Kingdom outcome. This theme appears throughout the prophets and is echoed in the New Covenant: judgment comes, and G-d establishes what is right—His order, His reign, and His Kingdom purposes.

Eli’s guilt is clear: he knew the sinfulness of his sons and remained passive. The text highlights a failure of discernment and spiritual clarity—a dullness, a lack of vision—resulting in spiritual negligence. And G-d declares that atonement will not be achieved through offerings in this matter. The message is unmistakable: G-d is holy, and sin that is not repented of will be judged.

Samuel’s Faithfulness and G-d’s Presence

Samuel, however, responds differently. Though he is afraid to speak the truth to Eli—out of respect and fear—he ultimately obeys. Samuel tells Eli everything G-d revealed, withholding nothing.

Eli’s response is striking:

“He is the L-RD; let Him do what seems good to Him.” (1 Samuel 3:18)

The text then reveals the contrast: Samuel grows, and the L-rd is with him. None of Samuel’s words fall to the ground—meaning everything he speaks from G-d proves true. Soon, all Israel recognizes Samuel as a faithful prophet.

This teaches a critical principle:

• G-d’s presence and power are connected to obedience.
• G-d magnifies those who submit to His word.
• G-d confirms His truth through faithful servants.

Grace and Obedience Are Not Opposites

The message also addresses a frequent misunderstanding: some believe we must choose between grace and obedience. But Scripture teaches something far deeper:

• Grace saves us
• And the same grace produces obedience in us

Grace is not a license for disobedience. Grace is the power of G-d at work in the believer, teaching us to deny self and to walk humbly and righteously in this present age.

We are not saved by commandments—but after being saved by grace, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live in obedience. The commandments define righteousness and train our perspective so we can live according to G-d’s will.

G-d Reveals Himself Through His Word

The chapter ends with a powerful statement:

“The L-RD revealed Himself to Samuel… by the word of the L-RD.” (1 Samuel 3:21)

G-d still speaks. But the clearest, most reliable way to hear Him is through His Word—believing it, obeying it, and building life upon its truth. When we do, we begin to experience G-d’s provision, G-d’s perspective, and the intimacy of His presence.

This is the call: to be faithful children of a faithful G-d—submitting to His Word, walking in His grace, and living with Kingdom hope.