Why Study 1 Samuel as a Family?

I am going to post a series of reflections/Bible studies on the book of 1 Samuel. Here are some reasons that this ancient book should be read and studied today.

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It Tells Stories of Family

The book of 1 Samuel tells the stories of priests and kings. It also tells the stories of families. Whether it is Hannah being bullied by her husband's other wife or the priest Eli confronting his wayward sons, the book describes family at its best and worst. I think it is important for Christian families to see these examples of faithful and unfaithful persons.

It Is an Engaging Read

We love to hear and read stories. My daughter and I are avid readers. My son and daughter enjoy reading the "I Survived" book series that tells stories of fictional characters in real-event settings. Everyone in our family enjoys a good tale. The book of 1 Samuel tells a great true story. It is filled with intrigue and some humor. There is a lot of dramatic tension among family members and among King Saul and David. There are giants, ghosts, villains and heroes. Who says the Bible is old, tired, and boring? 

It Shows Families Worshiping God

Hannah's prayer of praise is such a great example of worship. We also see other people worshiping God. The book shows us something that is rare in today's world, families who place God first and foremost in all they do. That's a great message for us to reflect on today.

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It Shows People at Their Best and Worst

I don't know about you, but I like to see authentic people. I don't like reading stories about perfect people. I cannot relate to them. Can you? First Samuel shows us real people at their best and worst. The priest Eli is a wonderful servant of God, but a terrible father. Saul is a king with great promise, and overwhelming fears. Jonathan is a great friend. David is a faithful follower of God (we read about his downfall in 2 Samuel). I can relate to the real people in this book, and so can my kids. 

It Proves that God is in Control

Throughout the book we see God at work through the people in the book. They are not perfect, and they make decisions that displease God, but God is always in control. God's hand is ever present in the lives of the people of this time. And if He was in control during this time, we can rest assured that he is in control today, even when personal circumstances seem overwhelming to us. 

Ready for the journey? Let's jump in to a family Bible study of 1 Samuel.