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The First Book of Samuel

The book of 1 Samuel is found in the Old Testament. It tells the story of how Israel moved from being led by judges to being led by kings. It begins with the birth of the prophet Samuel and ends with the death of King Saul. Along the way, we meet many people who are important in God’s plan.

One of the main themes is leadership. The people of Israel wanted a king like the other nations. God allowed it, but He also warned them about what it would mean. The book shows the difference between good leaders and bad ones. It also reminds us that God is the true king of His people.

1 Samuel introduces us to David, who would later become king. At first, David is a shepherd. But God chooses him to lead Israel because of his heart and trust in God. His story begins here, but continues in later books. We also see how David’s life connects with God’s bigger plan.

This book shows how God works through people. Even when things seem broken, God still guides His people. He listens when they pray. He calls people to do hard things. And He is always working to bring His people back to Him. These stories help us see that God is still with us today.

A Nation in Change

1 Samuel takes place during a time when Israel was changing fast. For many years, Israel had no king. God raised up judges to lead the people. These leaders helped during times of trouble. But the people were tired of this way. They wanted a king to rule over them, just like other nations. This wish for a king changed everything.

The author of 1 Samuel is not known. Some parts may have come from the prophet Samuel himself. Other parts were likely written later by different people. These writers took stories passed down from generation to generation. They also added details to help explain what was happening at the time.

The book was written for the people of Israel to remember where they came from. It helped them see how God stayed with them. Even when leaders made mistakes, God did not walk away. He kept calling people back to Him.

This history matters because it shows that God is still at work. He speaks through the past. He calls leaders. He listens when people pray. 1 Samuel shows us that God’s people have always needed help—and God has always answered.

Stories That Speak

1 Samuel is written like a story. It has real people, real problems, and many ups and downs. The book follows a simple path. It starts with Samuel’s birth. Then it shows how he listens to God and helps the people. It goes on to tell about King Saul and his rise and fall. Finally, it introduces David, the future king.

The writing is clear and direct. It uses action and dialogue. We hear people speak. We see what they do. This makes the book easy to follow. It feels like you are watching the events happen, not just reading about them.

There are also moments of prayer and praise. Hannah’s prayer in the first chapter is a good example. These parts help us understand what the people were feeling. They show how faith was part of their daily lives.

This kind of writing helps us connect to the people in the book. They are not just names from the past. They trusted, struggled, and hoped—just like we do.

What We Learn About Faith

1 Samuel teaches many lessons that connect with Catholic beliefs. These themes help us grow in faith and trust in God.

Here are some important themes in the book:

  • God chooses people to lead, even when they seem unlikely. Samuel was a child. David was a shepherd. This reminds us that God can use anyone for His work.
  • Prayer matters. Hannah’s prayer shows us how to bring our needs to God. Her story reminds us to trust and wait on Him.
  • God is the true King. Even when Israel wants a human king, God reminds them that He is the one who leads and protects them.
  • Obedience is better than sacrifice. Saul learns this the hard way. God wants people to listen and follow His ways, not just offer gifts.
  • God looks at the heart. When David is chosen, it is not because he is the strongest or oldest. God sees what is inside.

These themes are still important today. They help us live as faithful Catholics. We learn to trust God’s plan, listen to His call, and stay close to Him in prayer.

How the Story Unfolds

The book of 1 Samuel has 31 chapters. It can be divided into three main parts. Each part focuses on a different person and stage in Israel’s history.

  1. The Life of Samuel (1 Samuel 1:1–7:17)
    This part tells the story of Samuel’s birth and call. It shows how he becomes a prophet and leads the people. Samuel helps them turn back to God. He also warns them when they want a king.
  2. The Rise and Fall of Saul (1 Samuel 8:1–15:35)
    This section shows how Saul becomes Israel’s first king. At first, he seems like a good leader. But over time, he turns away from God. Saul makes poor choices and does not listen to God’s commands.
  3. The Rise of David (1 Samuel 16:1–31:13)
    David is chosen by God to be the next king. He is still young, but he trusts in God. He defeats Goliath and gains respect. Saul becomes jealous and tries to kill him. This section ends with Saul’s death.

Each part shows how God works in different people. The book moves from one leader to the next. Through it all, God stays with His people.

Still Speaking to Us

Even though 1 Samuel was written long ago, it still speaks to us today. The people in the book face struggles, make mistakes, and try to follow God. We do the same in our own lives.

Many of us want to be in control. Like the people who asked for a king, we forget to trust God. This book reminds us to listen to God and follow His ways, even when it’s hard.

1 Samuel also shows the power of prayer. Hannah’s story reminds us to bring our needs to God. Samuel’s story shows that God calls us, even when we are young. David reminds us that God looks at the heart, not just the outside.

This book is a good guide for youth, parents, leaders, and anyone trying to live their faith. It helps us see that God stays with us, calls us to serve, and wants us to trust Him each day.

Readings We Hear at Mass

Parts of 1 Samuel are included in the Roman Catholic lectionary. This means we hear these readings at Mass during the year. Some are used on weekdays, and others are part of special feasts or seasons.

One reading we hear often is 1 Samuel 3:1-10. This tells how God called young Samuel while he was sleeping. We hear it during Ordinary Time. It reminds us to listen for God’s voice and be ready to say, “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.”

Another well-known reading is 1 Samuel 16:1-13. This tells how David was chosen to be king. It shows that God sees the heart, not just what is on the outside. This reading is often used during Lent or other times of preparation.

Sometimes 1 Samuel is also used for the feasts of saints or special events. These readings help us understand how God works through people to carry out His plan. They remind us to stay close to God and be open to His call.

Click on a link below for more information and resources for a specific reading.

The Feast of the Holy Family Year C

A Promise Kept

In 1 Samuel 1:20-22, 24-28, Hannah gives birth to a son after praying for a child. She names him Samuel because she asked God for him. When it is time to go to the temple, she stays home until he is weaned. She wants to bring him when he is ready to serve God.

Once Samuel is old enough, Hannah brings him to the temple and gives him to the Lord, just as she promised. She brings gifts and offers thanks. Samuel is left with the priest Eli to live and serve at the house of God. This shows Hannah’s faith and her trust in God’s plan. It reminds us to be faithful in prayer and generous in response.

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Speak, Lord

In 1 Samuel 3:3B-10, 19, young Samuel is sleeping in the temple near the ark of God. He hears a voice calling him and thinks it is Eli the priest. This happens three times. Each time, Samuel runs to Eli. Finally, Eli realizes that it is God calling Samuel.

Eli tells Samuel to listen and respond if the voice calls again. When God calls again, Samuel says he is ready to listen. From that day on, God is with Samuel, and his words carry weight. The people begin to see that Samuel is a true prophet. This reading reminds us to be ready when God calls, and to listen with open hearts.

4th Sunday of Lent Year A

God Sees the Heart

In 1 Samuel 16:1B, 6-7, 10-13A, God sends Samuel to Bethlehem to find a new king. Samuel meets Jesse and his sons. The older sons seem strong and impressive, but God tells Samuel not to choose them. God explains that people look at the outside, but He looks at the heart.

After seeing seven sons, Samuel asks if there are any others. Jesse brings in his youngest son, David, who has been tending sheep. God tells Samuel to anoint him. From that moment, the Spirit of the Lord is with David. This reading shows that God’s choices are not always what people expect. He often calls those who seem small or unimportant.

7th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Choosing Mercy

In 1 Samuel 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23, Saul is hunting David again. David finds Saul’s camp while they are sleeping. He takes Saul’s spear and water jug but refuses to harm him. David has the chance to kill Saul but chooses not to.

Later, David shows Saul the spear to prove he was near but did no harm. He says he will not hurt the one God anointed as king. David leaves justice to God. This reading reminds us to choose mercy, even when we are wronged. It shows that doing what is right matters more than getting even.

Readings from 1 Samuel are also read at weekday Masses:

Resources

Hannah’s Gift and God’s Plan

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares reflections on 1 Samuel chapters 1 and 2. He focuses on the story of Hannah, a woman who longs for a child. She prays with deep trust and promises to give her son back to God. When Samuel is born, she keeps her promise and brings him to the temple.

Fr. Mike compares Hannah to St. Monica, who also prayed for her son Augustine. He explains that both women trusted God completely and didn’t try to control the outcome. Hannah’s faith challenges us not to cling too tightly to our blessings.

He also talks about how gifts from God can sometimes become idols if we don’t remember they are from Him. Hannah’s response reminds us to be grateful and generous with what we’ve received.

Fr. Mike ends by noting the failure of Eli’s sons and Eli’s lack of action. 1 Samuel shows both faithfulness and failure in leadership.

Listening and Losing: Samuel, Eli, and the Ark

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz shares thoughts on 1 Samuel chapters 3, 4, and 5. He points out that Samuel chose to stay near God’s presence, sleeping by the ark. This made it easier for him to hear the Lord’s voice. Fr. Mike encourages us to do the same by making space in our lives to listen to God.

He explains that Samuel hears a hard message: God will punish Eli’s family because Eli didn’t stop his sons from doing wrong. Fr. Mike reminds us that leaders are called to a higher standard, and failing to act brings real consequences.

Fr. Mike also talks about Israel losing in battle because they treated the ark like a lucky charm instead of honoring God. The people tried to use God for their own gain, but God won’t be used.

When the Philistines capture the ark, God shows his power without anyone’s help. Fr. Mike says God can fight his own battles—and he wants to fight for us.

The Ark, a Judge, and a Rejected King

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapters 6, 7, and 8. He explains how the Philistines returned the ark with care, even though they didn’t know the true God. They offered golden images of their sickness and let cows lead the ark back. Fr. Mike points out their cautious respect and compares it to how miracles are tested in the Church.

He talks about Samuel’s strong leadership as a judge and prophet. But like Eli, Samuel’s sons did not follow God. Fr. Mike reminds us that faith must be chosen in every generation. He speaks about the deep sadness parents feel when their children walk away from the faith.

Fr. Mike also shares how Israel asked for a king to be like other nations. Samuel is hurt, but God tells him the people are really rejecting God, not him. God wanted to lead them, but they chose someone else.

This moment shows how people often want control instead of trusting God to lead.

Saul Looks Like a King, but Struggles Within

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Samuel chapters 9 and 10. Saul is introduced as tall and handsome. He looks like a king. While searching for lost donkeys, Saul ends up meeting Samuel, who had been told by God to anoint him.

Fr. Mike explains that Saul is chosen by God and receives the Holy Spirit. He even prophesies with other prophets. This moment shows that God gave Saul what he needed to lead. Like us at baptism, Saul is anointed and made new.

But Saul’s weakness also shows early. When it’s time to present him as king, he hides. Fr. Mike says this reveals Saul’s fear of what others think. This fear will follow him and affect his choices.

Fr. Mike reminds us that Saul isn’t evil—he’s just human. He starts with good intentions, but his need for approval becomes a problem. We’re invited to look at our own lives and ask if we do the same.

Saul Rises, But God’s Warning Remains

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapters 11 and 12. Saul steps up as a true leader when Nahash the Ammonite threatens the people of Jabesh-Gilead. Saul unites Israel, leads them into battle, and wins. This shows he has strength, courage, and the Spirit of God.

Fr. Mike points out Saul’s mercy too. After the victory, some want to kill those who doubted Saul. But Saul says no. Instead, they gather at Gilgal and renew the kingdom. Saul acts with wisdom and humility.

In chapter 12, Samuel gives a final speech. He reminds the people that God has always helped them, even when they turned away. Asking for a king was not God’s plan. He allowed it, but it came from their hardness of heart.

Fr. Mike explains that God still stays with them. Even when we make bad choices, God does not leave us. He works with our brokenness. But Samuel warns—if they or their king are unfaithful, things will fall apart. The same is true for us.

Saul’s Mistake and Jonathan’s Courage

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Samuel chapters 13 and 14. He explains that Saul lost his chance to have a royal family line because he didn’t wait for Samuel. Saul offered a sacrifice himself, which was not his role. Fr. Mike says Saul was too focused on what others thought and gave in to fear.

Even after this, Saul didn’t give up. He kept leading and fighting. Fr. Mike points out that Saul had strengths, but he also made poor choices. He says Saul is a mix of good and bad, just like we are.

Fr. Mike then talks about Jonathan. He sees Jonathan’s bravery in going to fight the Philistines with just his armor-bearer. Fr. Mike compares him to David, saying both were bold when others were afraid.

Later, Saul makes a rash oath that almost costs Jonathan his life. Fr. Mike says this shows Saul’s poor judgment again. But the people save Jonathan because they saw his great courage.

Obedience Matters More Than Sacrifice

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Samuel chapters 15 and 16. He points out Saul’s ongoing weakness—he cares too much about what others think. This leads him to disobey God again by sparing King Agag and keeping the best animals, even though God told him to destroy everything.

Fr. Mike says Saul tries to cover it up by claiming the animals were for sacrifice. But Samuel makes it clear: God wants obedience, not just offerings. Fr. Mike reminds us that true holiness starts with doing what God asks, even when it’s hard.

In chapter 16, Fr. Mike explains how David is chosen as the new king. God tells Samuel not to judge by looks but to look at the heart. David is anointed even though he’s the youngest and a shepherd.

Fr. Mike ends by saying God wants our hearts to be like his. That means listening, trusting, and obeying—especially when it’s not easy. He encourages us to pray for the grace to follow God’s will.

David Faces the Giant with Trust

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapter 17. He says David’s courage stands out. While Saul and his army were afraid of Goliath, David believed someone had to stand up for God’s people. Like Jonathan, David acted when others stayed still.

Fr. Mike explains that David’s past battles with lions and bears prepared him for this moment. David wasn’t seeking glory. He simply wanted to do what was right. He trusted that God would help him, just like before.

Fr. Mike highlights how David used the tools he knew. He didn’t wear Saul’s armor. Instead, he used a sling and stones. When the time came, David ran toward Goliath without hesitation. Fr. Mike encourages us to do the same—face the tasks of today with courage.

Finally, Fr. Mike points out that David wasn’t fighting for reward. He was defending God’s name. His love for the Lord pushed him forward. That’s the kind of heart God wants from us too.

Friendship and Jealousy

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Samuel chapters 18 and 19. He highlights the deep friendship between David and Jonathan. Fr. Mike explains this is a true example of virtuous friendship. They were united by a shared love for God and courage in battle.

Fr. Mike also explains Saul’s growing jealousy. Saul cared more about what people thought of him than what God thought. When the people praised David, Saul became angry and afraid. This fear led him to try to kill David.

Fr. Mike notes that David kept doing what was right. Even when Saul threw spears at him, David stayed faithful and humble. Saul gave David difficult tasks, hoping he would die. But David kept succeeding because God was with him.

Finally, Fr. Mike reminds us that David didn’t complain. Even while running for his life, he praised God. Fr. Mike encourages us to do the same—praise God even when life is hard. David’s trust and faith should inspire us.

A Friendship That Stands Firm

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapter 20. He talks about the strong bond between David and Jonathan. Their friendship is based on trust, loyalty, and a shared desire to serve the Lord. Fr. Mike says this is an example of true, virtuous friendship.

He explains that David and Jonathan were united by something greater than themselves. They both wanted to do what was right. They looked out for each other, even when it was dangerous. Jonathan risked his life to protect David from Saul.

Fr. Mike also speaks about different types of love. He says their friendship wasn’t about feelings or romance. It was a deep connection called philia, the love of true friendship. This kind of love is rare and precious.

He reminds us that Jesus also called us his friends. Real friendship reflects God’s love. Fr. Mike invites us to thank God for the friends we have. He also encourages us to pray for those who feel alone or unloved.

Betrayal, Bread, and Trust

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapters 21 and 22. He talks about David receiving the holy bread. Fr. Mike explains that this bread, from the holy place in the temple, showed God’s love and care for his people. He connects it to the Eucharist and reminds us that God still feeds us today.

Fr. Mike also speaks about Doeg the Edomite. He calls him a slimy traitor. Doeg told Saul about the priest who helped David, then killed many priests when Saul gave the order. Fr. Mike says Doeg is a clear picture of betrayal and evil.

David is deeply hurt by this. But Fr. Mike notes that David does not become bitter. Instead, he turns to God and keeps trying to do what is right. Even when others are false, David chooses to be faithful.

Fr. Mike closes by saying that betrayal is painful. We have all been hurt by people we trusted. But we can always trust the Lord, who never turns against us.

David Seeks God and Escapes Again

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapter 23. He explains how David chooses to ask God before acting. When the Philistines attack Keilah, David could have stayed out of it, but instead he inquires of the Lord. Even after hearing advice against it, he checks with God again and follows what God says.

Fr. Mike points out how David listens to both God and the people around him. This shows David’s trust in God and his wisdom in seeking good counsel. Fr. Mike says this makes David a man after God’s own heart.

He also highlights how David almost gets caught by Saul. They are on opposite sides of a hill, and Saul is closing in. But a messenger calls Saul away just in time. David doesn’t know how close he was to being captured.

Fr. Mike says God saves us in ways we don’t always see. We may not notice, but God is always at work, even when we’re unaware.

Knowing When to Step Back

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapter 24. David has a chance to kill Saul in the cave but chooses not to. Fr. Mike says David shows great respect for God’s choice, even though Saul is trying to kill him.

Fr. Mike explains that David knows Saul is still the king. Even though David was anointed, he waits for God to act. He understands that it is not his role to remove Saul. Fr. Mike says David knows his limits and honors God’s timing.

This story teaches us to ask God before stepping into a battle. Fr. Mike reminds us that not every fight is ours. We should check with God before we act, especially when others try to push us.

Fr. Mike encourages us to know our role. Like David, we must stay ready, but only move when God says to go. Waiting for God’s call is a sign of wisdom and trust.

Abigail Steps In and David Learns

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz talks about 1 Samuel chapter 25. He explains how David’s men had protected Nabal’s shepherds. When David asked for help in return, Nabal insulted him. David got angry and planned to attack.

Fr. Mike says Abigail’s wisdom and courage stopped David from doing something wrong. She brought gifts and spoke kindly. She reminded David that he didn’t want guilt on his hands. Fr. Mike calls her one of the great women of Scripture.

David listens to Abigail. Fr. Mike points out that this shows David still had much to learn. He was young and sometimes acted out of anger. But he was open to correction and grew wiser.

Fr. Mike ends by thanking God for people like Abigail. He encourages us to listen to those who help us stay on the right path. Sometimes we need someone to stop us before we make a mistake. Other times, we need someone to tell us to move forward. God speaks through both.

David Shows Mercy Again

In this episode, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel chapter 26. David has another chance to kill Saul but chooses not to. He takes Saul’s spear and water jar instead. Fr. Mike says David shows mercy, reverence, and faithfulness.

David calls out Saul’s army for not protecting him. Then he speaks kindly to Saul. Fr. Mike points out that David still honors Saul as the Lord’s anointed. He refuses to take revenge, even when it seems easy.

Fr. Mike says David’s reverence is real. He knows Saul has been chosen by God, even if Saul is doing wrong. David won’t treat holy things carelessly.

David also walks in faith. He doesn’t know what will happen next, but he keeps trusting God. Fr. Mike encourages us to grow in these same three virtues: mercy, reverence, and faithfulness. Even when life feels unfair, we can keep doing what’s right.

David Hides Among His Enemies, Saul Seeks the Dead

In this episode, Fr. Mike reflects on 1 Samuel 27 and 28. David is still running from Saul. Out of fear, he goes to live among the Philistines, Israel’s enemies. He pretends to serve them and lies about his raids. King Achish trusts him, but David is not being truthful.

Fr. Mike shows how fear can drive us to strange places. David was chosen by God, but in this moment, he leans on his own plans. He chooses survival over trust. This reminds us that even the faithful can fall into fear and confusion.

Meanwhile, Saul reaches a breaking point. When God is silent, Saul seeks a medium to bring up Samuel. Fr. Mike explains that this is a grave sin. The Church teaches that all forms of divination—like horoscopes, tarot, and séances—are to be rejected. They open doors to evil and show distrust in God.

Samuel tells Saul the hard truth: the kingdom is lost, and Saul will die. It’s a warning. When we stop listening to God and reach for control, we lose more than answers—we risk our souls.

Fr. Mike urges us to stay away from anything that calls on spirits or seeks hidden knowledge. Instead, we are called to trust God, even in silence, and live today with faith and hope.

David’s Wisdom at the End of 1 Samuel

In this episode of the Bible in a Year Podcast, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on 1 Samuel 29, 30, and 31. He says David shows great wisdom in how he handles hard moments. First, David is sent away by the Philistines. Fr. Mike points out that this is good, because David had been lying to them. They were right not to trust him.

In chapter 30, David finds his city burned and his people taken. Fr. Mike says David doesn’t act out of panic. Instead, he prays first. He puts on the ephod and asks God what to do. This shows David has learned to seek God before moving.

After the victory, David shares the spoil with the men who stayed behind. Some soldiers didn’t want to, but David said all played a part. Fr. Mike says this shows David’s fairness and leadership.

Fr. Mike also notes that David sends gifts to the elders of Judah. This helps unite the people. Even before becoming king, David acts like one. He shows care, justice, and wisdom.

Navigating The Scriptures: The Catholic Approach to Reading the Bible

The Bible

Looking to learn more about the Bible? Check out this resource from Young Catholics. It walks you through how to read the Bible and why it matters. It breaks things down in a clear and easy way. It can help youth ministers, teachers, parents, and anyone who wants to grow in faith.

If you’re new to reading Scripture, this guide is a great place to start. It offers simple tips and helpful ways to pray with the Bible.

Questions and Answers about 1 Samuel

Who wrote 1 Samuel?

We don’t know the exact author. Some parts may have come from the prophet Samuel. Others were likely added later by different people. The Church teaches that God guided the writers through the Holy Spirit.

Why is this book important for Catholics?

It shows how God worked through leaders like Samuel, Saul, and David. It teaches us about prayer, trust, and listening to God. These are lessons we can still use today.

What are the main themes in 1 Samuel?

Some big themes are prayer, leadership, obedience, and trust in God. It also shows that God looks at the heart, not just the outside.

Is 1 Samuel used in Mass readings?

Yes. Some parts of 1 Samuel are used in the lectionary. You might hear about Samuel’s call or David being chosen as king during Mass.

How can I start reading 1 Samuel?

Begin with a short prayer. Read a few chapters at a time. Think about how the people in the story listened to God and what you can learn from them.

Called by God, Led by Faith

The book of 1 Samuel tells the story of big changes for the people of Israel. It begins with the birth of Samuel, a boy given to God through prayer. He grows up to be a prophet and leader. God speaks to him and sends him to guide the people.

As Israel asks for a king, God allows Saul to be chosen. At first, Saul does well. But he stops listening to God and begins to fall. Samuel warns him, but Saul does not change. This part of the book teaches that leaders must listen and obey.

Later, we meet David. He is a shepherd, but God sees his heart and chooses him. David faces many trials, including the jealousy of Saul. Through it all, he keeps trusting in God. The book ends with Saul’s death and prepares the way for David to become king.

1 Samuel shows that God works through people, even when things are messy. It teaches us to trust, pray, and follow God’s lead.

Your Turn

Try reading 1 Samuel on your own. Look for the parts where people trust in God, even when life is hard. Think about what their stories say to you. Are there parts that remind you of your own journey?

After you read, share your thoughts in the comment section. What part of the story stood out to you? Did a person or prayer speak to your heart? We’d love to hear how the book helped you grow in faith.

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