Read 1 Samuel 3:1–10 in your chosen translation. Everything below is original teaching commentary by Living Letters, not a Bible quotation. Suggested ages and timings can be adapted.
THE LEARNING GOAL
Retell the sequence of Samuel’s calls and explain the help Eli gives him.
Open the conversation
Read three ordinary instructions once, then again more slowly. Ask what makes listening easier.
Read and notice
Samuel serves under Eli when he hears his name called during the night. He goes to Eli, assuming that Eli has called him. The repeated action is useful for helping young readers follow a sequence without rushing to the ending.
Eli initially tells Samuel to go back and lie down. Later he recognizes that God is calling Samuel and gives him guidance about how to respond. Read the pattern carefully: the passage describes a process of recognition and instruction.
Use the lesson to practice attentive listening and asking for wise help. It does not teach that every sound, thought, or dream is a message from God. Keep role-play simple and avoid asking children to imitate a divine voice or claim special messages for one another.
Explore together
Arrange four event cards: Samuel hears, Samuel goes to Eli, Eli gives guidance, Samuel responds. Discuss why several events happen more than once.
Questions worth asking
Invite learners to answer from the passage first. Open a suggested answer when you are ready to discuss it.
1. Whom does Samuel think has called him?
Suggested answer
Eli; Samuel repeatedly goes to him (verses 4–8).
2. Who helps Samuel understand what is happening?
Suggested answer
Eli recognizes the call and gives guidance (verses 8–9).
3. What changes in Samuel’s response?
Suggested answer
After Eli’s guidance, Samuel answers as a servant ready to listen (verse 10).
Inside the activity pack
- Word search
- Find six key words, then point to where they connect with the reading.
- Matching
- Connect four names, objects, or ideas with clues and references.
- Flashcards
- Review the same four connections aloud or with a partner.
- Missing words
- Complete a short review of the teaching notes. This exercise uses commentary, not a Scripture quotation.
Use one activity or all four. For younger learners, read instructions aloud and work together. For older groups, ask for evidence from the passage before showing answers.
Published November 10, 2026 · Living Letters · Editorial approach · Suggest a correction