Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favor with the LORD and also with man.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse highlights that true spiritual growth isn't just about how we perform for God, but also about how our character and actions positively impact those around us. Samuel's development "in favor with the LORD and also with man" shows that our relationship with God and our relationships with people are deeply connected, and both flourish when nurtured.
Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favor with the LORD and also with man.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse sits right in the middle of a pivotal moment: Hannah's beautiful prayer of thanksgiving after dedicating her son Samuel to God's service. It contrasts Samuel's virtuous upbringing with the corrupt lives of Eli's own sons, highlighting Samuel's spiritual growth and favor as he serves in the tabernacle. This sets the stage for God's eventual call to Samuel and his prophetic ministry.
We often think of favor with God and favor with people as separate things, but what if they're deeply connected?
This verse highlights a beautiful, two-fold growth in Samuel's life. He wasn't just getting taller; he was maturing in his relationship with God and becoming well-liked by those around him.
Favor with the LORD
This means experiencing God's approval, His presence, and His blessing. It's about alignment with His will and heart.
Favor with Man
This points to a positive reputation, respect, and acceptance from others. It's about healthy relationships and being a positive influence.
Does 'favor' mean God owes us good things, or that people will always like us?
The concept of 'favor' in the Bible isn't about earning points or manipulating people. It's about God's gracious disposition towards someone, and how that often influences how others see them.
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Understand the original words
chen · Hebrew Noun
A Hebrew term meaning 'favor' or 'grace,' often referring to the quality of being pleasing or acceptable to others or to God. It suggests a gracious charm or divine approval that attracts the goodwill of those around an individual.
This verse echoes Samuel's growth, showing Jesus similarly increasing in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man, highlighting the pattern of holistic development in those favored by God.
Proverbs 3:3-4These verses describe the blessings of loyalty and steadfast love, which align with Samuel's growing favor with the LORD and man, suggesting that favor often comes through faithful living.
Genesis 39:21This passage shows how Joseph was shown steadfast love by the prison keeper and given responsibility because the LORD was with him, mirroring Samuel's growing favor with man because of his favor with the LORD.
1 Samuel 3:19This verse directly states that the LORD was with Samuel as he grew and let none of his words fall to the ground, reinforcing the idea that Samuel's increasing favor with man was a direct result of God's presence and blessing.
This verse highlights that true spiritual growth isn't just about how we perform for God, but also about how our character and actions positively impact those around us. Samuel's development "in favor with the LORD and also with man" shows that our relationship with God and our relationships with people are deeply connected, and both flourish when nurtured.
This verse sits right in the middle of a pivotal moment: Hannah's beautiful prayer of thanksgiving after dedicating her son Samuel to God's service. It contrasts Samuel's virtuous upbringing with the corrupt lives of Eli's own sons, highlighting Samuel's spiritual growth and favor as he serves in the tabernacle. This sets the stage for God's eventual call to Samuel and his prophetic ministry.
This verse sits right in the middle of a pivotal moment: Hannah's beautiful prayer of thanksgiving after dedicating her son Samuel to God's service. It contrasts Samuel's virtuous upbringing with the corrupt lives of Eli's own sons, highlighting Samuel's spiritual growth and favor as he serves in the tabernacle. This sets the stage for God's eventual call to Samuel and his prophetic ministry.
"Now the boy Samuel continued to grow both in stature and in favor with the LORD and also with man." — This verse highlights that true spiritual growth isn't just about how we perform for God, but also about how our character and actions positively impact those around us. Samuel's development "in favo…
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Last reviewed October 2026