01-09-2026 PART 1: HONORING GOD ABOVE ALL

Section 1

This passage in 1 Samuel chapter 2, verses 27 through 29, brings us face to face with a sobering confrontation between God and Eli through a prophet. Eli’s sons were abusing their priestly role in grotesque ways, taking offerings meant for God before they were sacrificed and engaging in open immorality. Even more troubling was Eli’s failure to act. As both a father and the high priest, he neglected his responsibility to correct, discipline, and protect the sacred trust entrusted to his family. God reminds Eli that the priesthood was not an accident or a casual assignment, but a divine calling established through Aaron, meant to be carried with reverence, humility, and obedience. This moment underscores that spiritual leadership is not optional stewardship; it is a holy responsibility directly accountable to God Himself.

Section 2

The heart of God’s rebuke cuts deeply when He asks Eli why he honors his sons more than God. This is not merely about parental affection, but about misplaced loyalty and distorted priorities. Scripture consistently affirms that God must come first, without exception, even above family. Jesus later echoes this same truth in the Gospels, making it unmistakably clear that loving anyone more than God disqualifies a person from faithful discipleship. Eli’s silence and tolerance allowed corruption to flourish, and his passive participation benefited him materially. The misuse of spiritual authority for personal gain, whether through money, influence, or comfort, provokes God’s righteous correction. This is not confined to the Old Testament; it is a timeless warning that reverence for God cannot be compromised.

Section 3

This account serves as a powerful reminder that all believers are stewards before God, entrusted with responsibilities that must reflect His character. Whether one holds formal spiritual leadership or simply manages what God has placed in their care, misuse invites discipline. God expects gratitude instead of greed, faithfulness instead of self-interest, and obedience instead of convenience. The judgment that ultimately fell upon Eli’s household shows that God takes His holiness seriously, in every covenant. The lesson is clear and enduring: everything belongs to God, everything flows from Him, and He must remain first. When He is honored above all else, everything else finds its proper place.