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From Eternity Past
dawn of intellect she had taught her son to regard himself as the Lord’s.
Every day he was the subject of her prayers. Every year she made
a robe of service for him, and as she went up with her husband to
worship at Shiloh, she gave the child this reminder of her love. Every
fiber of the little garment had been woven with prayer that he might be
pure, noble, and true. She earnestly pleaded that he might attain that
greatness which Heaven values, that he might honor God and bless his
fellowmen.
What a reward was Hannah’s! And what an encouragement to
faithfulness is her example! There are opportunities committed to
every mother. The humble round of duties which women regard as a
wearisome task should be looked upon as a grand and noble work. The
mother may make straight paths for the feet of her children, through
sunshine and shadow, to the glorious heights above. But it is only
when she seeks in her own life to follow Christ that the mother can
hope to form the character of her children after the divine pattern. Let
every mother go often to her Saviour with the prayer, “Teach us, how
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shall we order the child, and what shall we do unto him?” Wisdom
will be given her.
“The child Samuel grew on, and was in favor both with the Lord,
and also with men.” Samuel’s youth was not 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.
The loveliness of Samuel’s 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 comfort and
blessing in the presence of his charge. No father ever loved his child
more tenderly than did Eli this youth. Filled with anxiety and remorse
by the profligate course of his own sons, Eli turned to Samuel for
comfort.
Every year saw more important trusts committed to him. While
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 duties to perform,
according to his capacity. These were not always pleasant, but they
were performed with a willing heart. He regarded himself as God’s