Those of us who are parents or guardians know the great responsibility God places upon us to lead our children. “Start children off on the way they should go and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6 NIV)
In our story this week we learn that Eli the Priest was very proud of Samuel. After Samuel was weaned, Hannah, Samuel’s mother brought him to the tabernacle to learn under Eli. Eli was more proud of Samuel than his own two sons, Hophni and Pinehas.
Eli was a priest, but Eli’s sons refused to follow the ways of their father and were wicked. They indulged in sexual immoral acts, corruption, and bribery. They weren’t interested in doing the right things and for that, they would pay the ultimate price.
Eli rebuked his sons, but they didn’t listen. Instead of listening to their father’s instructions and following the Lord they sinned against God knowingly. They crossed the line with God and he wanted to put them to death. (1 Samuel 2:25 NIV) Because of their disobedience both boys died on the same day thus suffering the consequences of sinning against God.
We must teach our children to fear the Lord in a healthy way so that they understand the importance of being obedient to God. If they choose to be disobedient then they too will suffer the consequences of their sins.
As parents we have the awesome responsibility to teach our children the ways of the Lord. “Discipline your children, and they will give you peace; they will bring you the delights you desire.” (Proverbs 29:17 NIV)
Resource(s): Personal Bible study, Bible (NIV) and “The Story” resources
