Growing in Favor with God

In 1 Samuel 2:12-26 we see a contrast between Eli's sons, who were growing in disfavor, and the young Samuel, who was growing in favor with God and with men. Eli's sons, the priests, were growing in disfavor by pursuing personal pleasures that resulted in rejection of God and by God. In contrast, Samuel was growing in favor with God through service, faithfulness and contentment. We see in this passage that God gives growth by His grace.