“And Samuel said, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.”” (1 Samuel 3:10 NAS95)
Samuel knew he heard someone, but he did not recognize the voice. Maybe Eli called? Samuel entered Eli’s room twice before he received the guidance necessary to recognize the Lord’s speech. I find it interesting that Eli told Samuel to have the posture of listening to the Lord. Oh sure, that sounds simple, but many in Scripture tended more toward discussing rather than listening. Samuel listened. What he heard was very difficult, but he responded with obedience. He surrendered to God’s love by applying appropriately what he heard.
God initiated. Samuel listened, and then he did what God asked. Along the way, Samuel had to overcome fear because of the challenge placed before him. Samuel proved faithful, and as a result his trust in God grew. Because of Samuel’s posture before God, he was confirmed as a prophet. He listened and was faithful to what he received. What an example to follow! I find myself asking three questions: (1) am I open to God’s initiative in prayer; (2) do I have a posture of listening; and (3) will I surrender in obedience to His love? God please make me the kind of person who can trust your love! I am grateful for the witness of Samuel who did.
For Reflection:
“He who is of God hears the words of God” (John 8:47 NASB)
- What hinders or helps you in listening to God? Do you view prayer as something God initiates or that you initiate? Why?
- Recall times when you know you heard God’s voice and applied it? What happened?
