“Then the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which both ears of everyone who hears it will tingle.’” (11). We must keep in mind this word from God came to Samuel as a boy raised by Eli [corrupt leader & failed father]. Now God gave to him a harsh word of judgment that would fall on Eli for his failure to properly rebuke his sons. At this point God withdraws His mercy on the man who has been a father to Samuel. Consequently, Samuel was afraid to tell Eli, but Eli pleaded with him to speak truthfully and he did so. Eli replied, “…’It is the LORD; let Him do what seems good to Him.’” (18b). While surrounded by corruption, Samuel grew in his prophetic gift until he was seen as a prophet throughout Israel. When we faithfully obey the Lord even when it is painful and unpopular, we will grow in our ability to hear God. May God give us the strength and courage to be faithful to what He reveals lest we be swept up in the spiritual and moral decay surrounding us.