Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, nor had the word of the LORD yet been revealed to him. So the LORD called Samuel again for the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” Then Eli discerned that the LORD was calling the boy. And Eli said to Samuel, “Go lie down, and it shall be if He calls you, that you shall say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.'” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. Then the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:7-10 (NAU)
This biblical narrative of Samuel’s first encounter with God illustrates that humans can hear God’s voice. Just as Eli assured Samuel, the Word of God assures us that the same God who spoke to Samuel speaks today in our hearts and from the Bible to teach us and empower us to learn.
Dear Father, thank you for your Word and your calling. Forgive me for my past deafness. It was in ignorance that I did not listen.Empower me to be fully mindful of your spirit and presence. Speak, O Lord, for I am listening for your voice. This I pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us praise God for calling us and live as his servants,
Pastor Smith