---

One of the most beautiful things that God has made in the world is growth, and the world is full of it. God did not make a great Samuel at once, but a little child Samuel, who grew before Him. I will speak of four thoughts as included in growing before the Lord.

I. Samuel grew AT THE LORD'S HOUSE. At this time there was no temple. There was no tabernacle, with the court round about, where the burnt offerings were consumed on the altar.

II. Samuel grew is THE LORD'S SIGHT. This means that the Lord was pleased to see Samuel grow as he did. "Grow in grace" is the Apostle's word. Growth in love is the true progress; for love is holiness, and holiness is light, and light is God.

III. Samuel grew BY THE LORD'S GRACE. His mother had lent him to the Lord, and the Lord saw to his growing.

IV. Samuel grew for THE LORD'S SERVICE.

1. Little services from little people are acceptable to God.

2. The little grows by and by to the great.

(J. Edmond.)

---

---

KJV: And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men.

WEB: The child Samuel grew on, and increased in favor both with Yahweh, and also with men.