Then I will raise up for myself a faithful priest. He will do what is in my heart and soul. I will build for him a secure dynasty and he will serve my chosen one for all time.

The Lord said to Samuel, “Look! I am about to do something in Israel; when anyone hears about it, both of his ears will tingle.

So Samuel told him everything. He did not hold back anything from him. Eli said, “The Lord will do what he pleases.”

the Philistines called the priests and the omen readers, saying, “What should we do with the ark of the Lord? Advise us as to how we should send it back to its place.”

So the men did as instructed. They took two cows that had calves and harnessed them to a cart; they also removed their calves to their stalls.

He will appoint for himself leaders of thousands and leaders of fifties, as well as those who plow his ground, reap his harvest, and make his weapons of war and his chariot equipment.

“When these signs have taken place, do whatever your hand finds to do, for God will be with you.

But Saul said, “No one will be killed on this day. For today the Lord has given Israel a victory!”

Samuel said to the people, “The Lord is the one who chose Moses and Aaron and who brought your ancestors up from the land of Egypt.

Now take your positions, so I may confront you before the Lord regarding all the Lord’s just actions toward you and your ancestors.

The Lord will not abandon his people because he wants to uphold his great reputation. The Lord was pleased to make you his own people.

A blacksmith could not be found in all the land of Israel, for the Philistines had said, “This will prevent the Hebrews from making swords and spears.”

His armor bearer said to him, “Do everything that is on your mind. Do as you’re inclined. I’m with you all the way!”

So the army rushed greedily on the plunder, confiscating sheep, cattle, and calves. They slaughtered them right on the ground, and the army ate them blood and all.

Here is what the Lord of hosts says: ‘I carefully observed how the Amalekites opposed Israel along the way when Israel came up from Egypt.

Then invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you should do. You will anoint for me the one I point out to you.”

Samuel did what the Lord told him. When he arrived in Bethlehem, the elders of the city were afraid to meet him. They said, “Do you come in peace?”

You have explained today how you have treated me well. The Lord delivered me into your hand, but you did not kill me.

Now if a man finds his enemy, does he send him on his way in good shape? May the Lord repay you with good this day for what you have done to me.

Now be aware of this, and see what you can do. For disaster has been planned for our lord and his entire household. He is such a wicked person that no one tells him anything!”