Speak, for your servant is listening

1 Samuel 3:10, “The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."”

Have you been praying for God to answer that special petition, or to give you the answer that will take you out of that trial or hardship that you’re stuck in? Are you wondering if He’s even listening? Have you wondered if God still speaks today?

Many people today get frustrated, wondering why God isn’t listening to them; why He’s not answering their prayers. Well, God most certainly still speaks today! The problem is we forget that effective communication requires one to both speak and listen, not just one or the other. We get so lost in our problems, our grief, our worries and we become wrapped up in the same requests over and over that we forget to lend an ear. 

When the prophet Samuel was a young boy, the Lord called out his name while he slept. At first he thought it was his master, Eli calling but Eli kept sending him back to bed. Finally, on the third call, Eli realized it was the Lord calling Samuel and he instructed Samuel on how to answer. It is interesting that God only delivered his message to Samuel when Samuel made it evident that he was ready and listening. He answered, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” My question to you today is, “Are you listening?” God may have revealed the answer that you are seeking through the sermon that was preached last Sunday, or the Word that you read this morning, but are you listening? Take time to take a step back, spend some time in prayer and worship. Open your spiritual eyes and ears and wait for God’s whisper. When you are listening, you will recognize His voice!

Pray… “Lord, forgive my anxiety, my frustration and doubt. I know you are listening. Help me now to listen and recognize your voice in your Word, but more importantly, help me to obey your direction. In the name of Jesus, I ask you now to speak, for your servant is listening! Amen.”