John Gill's Bible Commentary Ver. 8. And the children of Israel said to Samuel , etc.] To whom they applied, not as the general of their forces, but as the prophet of the Lord; believing his prayers for them would be of more avail to them than an army of men ever so numerous, or so well accoutred: cease not to cry unto the Lord our God for us : he had been praying for them that day, and they desired he would continue praying for them, well knowing that the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much; they knew their salvation was of the Lord, and that he only could save them, and that he must be sought unto for it; and as Samuel had an interest in him, they beg he would continue to make use of it on their behalf; in which they expressed their trust in God, their regard to means, the duty of prayer, and the high esteem they had of the prophet of the Lord, whom they entreat to pray for them: that he will save us out of the hands of the Philistines ; who were now coming up against them, and who had for a long time tyrannised over them.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 7-12 - The Philistines invaded Israel. When sinners begin to repent an reform, they must expect that Satan will muster all his force agains them, and set his instruments at work to the utmost, to oppose an discourage them. The Israelites earnestly beg Samuel to pray for them Oh what a comfort it is to all believers, that our great Intercesso above never ceases, is never silent! for he always appears in the presence of God for us. Samuel's sacrifice, without his prayer, ha been an empty shadow. God gave a gracious answer. And Samuel erected memorial of this victory, to the glory of God, and to encourage Israel Through successive generations, the church of God has had cause to se up Eben-ezers for renewed deliverances; neither outward persecution nor inward corruptions have prevailed against her, because "hithert the Lord hath helped her:" and he will help, even to the end of the world.
Original Hebrew ויאמרו559 בני1121 ישׂראל3478 אל413 שׁמואל8050 אל408 תחרשׁ2790 ממנו4480 מזעק2199 אל413 יהוה3068 אלהינו430 וישׁענו3467 מיד3027 פלשׁתים׃6430
