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Christian Education
free from evil influences or sinful example. The sons of Eli feared not
God, nor honored their father; but Samuel did not seek their company
nor follow their evil ways. It was his constant endeavor to become
what God would have him. This is the privilege of every youth. God
is pleased when even little children give themselves to his service.
Samuel had been placed under the care of Eli, and the loveliness
of his character drew forth the warm affection of the aged priest.
He was kind, generous, obedient, and respectful. Eli, pained by the
waywardness of his own sons, found rest and comfort and blessing in
the presence of his charge. Samuel was helpful and affectionate, and
no father ever loved his child more tenderly than did Eli this youth. It
was a singular thing that between the chief magistrate of the nation and
the simple child so warm an affection should exist. As the infirmities
of age came upon Eli, and he was filled with anxiety and remorse by
the profligate course of his own sons, he turned to Samuel for comfort.
It was not customary for the Levites to enter upon their peculiar
services until they were twenty-five years of age, but Samuel had been
an exception to this rule. Every year saw more important trusts com-
mitted to him; and while he was yet a child, a linen ephod was placed
upon him as a token of his consecration to the work of the sanctuary.
Young as he was when brought to minister in the tabernacle, Samuel
had even then duties to perform in the service of God, according to his
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capacity. These were at first very humble, and not always pleasant; but
they were performed to the best of his ability, and with a willing heart.
His religion was carried into every duty of life. He regarded himself as
God’s servant, and his work as God’s work. His efforts were accepted,
because they were prompted by love to God and a sincere desire to do
his will. It was thus that Samuel became a co-worker with the Lord of
heaven and earth. And God fitted him to accomplish a great work for
Israel.
If children were taught to regard the humble round of every-day
duties as the course marked out for them by the Lord, as a school in
which they were to be trained to render faithful and efficient service,
how much more pleasant and honorable would their work appear.
To perform every duty as unto the Lord, throws a charm around the
humblest employment, and links the workers on earth with the holy
beings who do God’s will in heaven.