Are You Listening When God Speaks?

One of the most important lessons we can learn from Samuel is that when God speaks, His servants must learn to listen.

Are You Listening When God Speaks?

"Then the LORD called Samuel again the third time. So he arose and went to Eli, and said, 'Here I am, for you did call me.' Then Eli perceived that the LORD had called the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, 'Go, lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant hears."' So Samuel went and lay down in his place."

(1 Samuel 3:8-10)

One of the most important lessons we can learn from Samuel is that when God speaks, His servants must learn to listen. 1 Samuel 3:1 tells us that "the word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation." Israel was experiencing a spiritual low point. Yet even in those dark days, God was preparing a young boy to hear His voice and become a great spiritual leader.

Samuel did not immediately recognize that it was God calling him. Three times he heard his name and assumed Eli was calling him. Finally, Eli realized what was happening and instructed Samuel to respond, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant hears." Samuel needed help understanding what God was doing, but he had a willing heart.

That is an important lesson for us. Sometimes we become so occupied with the noise, responsibilities, and distractions of life that we struggle to hear God clearly. We may spend time listening to news, social media, friends, and our own thoughts, yet neglect the most important voice of all. God speaks through His Word, His Spirit, His creation, and His people. Our responsibility is to cultivate a heart that is attentive to Him.

I love the story of Malkam, the young son of our executive/worship pastor, Jeff Fair. During a worship rehearsal, Jeff mentioned that there would be a baptism that day. From the back of the worship center, a child's voice called out, "I want to be baptized!" It was Malkam. His family had been talking with him about baptism, and he was expressing a desire to take that step. What a wonderful reminder that children can have spiritual desires and that adults can help them understand and respond to what God is doing in their hearts.

Samuel's story also reminds us that listening to God is not merely for adults, pastors, or spiritual leaders. Every believer should seek to hear and follow the Lord. We do this first by spending time in Scripture, asking God to teach us, and remaining willing to respond to what He shows us.

Today, slow down long enough to listen. Open your Bible with an expectant heart. Ask the Lord to reveal anything that needs to change in your life. Do not approach Him only with a list of requests. Make room for Him to direct your steps.

Prayer: Father, forgive me for allowing the noise of life to distract me from Your voice. Give me a heart that is attentive to Your Word and sensitive to Your Spirit. Help me recognize what You are teaching me and give me the wisdom to follow Your direction. Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. In Jesus' name, amen.

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