ELI — The Priest Who Learned the Importance of Listening to God

Bible Setting: 1 Samuel 1–4

Eli was the high priest of Israel and served at the tabernacle in Shiloh. Many people came to him for guidance, and he helped lead the nation in worship. Eli also cared for young Samuel, who lived and served in the tabernacle. He taught Samuel how to help with the sacrifices and how to honor God.

But Eli had a big problem in his own home. His sons, who were also priests, were not obeying God. They were greedy, disrespectful, and treated God’s offerings lightly. Eli knew what they were doing, but he didn’t correct them strongly enough. This made God very displeased, because leaders are supposed to help others follow the right path.

One night, God spoke to Samuel and gave him an important message—a message of warning for Eli. Even though it was hard to hear, Eli accepted the truth and said, “Let the Lord do what is right.” Later, when Israel went to battle without seeking God’s guidance, Eli’s sons died, and the ark of God was captured. When Eli heard the news, he fell and died, ending his time as priest.

Eli teaches kids that listening to God is just as important as serving Him. He reminds us that leaders—and families—must follow God’s ways with both their words and their actions. Eli’s story also shows how important it is to guide others with courage, wisdom, and truth.

Eli represents the importance of listening and leading with integrity. When kids hear his story, they learn that obeying God and helping others do what is right leads to lasting strength.