Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.
- James 1:9
Earlier this week, I started reading the book of 1 Samuel. Memories of Sunday School lessons from my childhood flooded my mind. This young boy, Samuel, was chosen to serve as one of God’s servants. He lived at the Tabernacle and served under Eli the priest.
Meanwhile, the boy Samuel served the Lord by assisting Eli. Now, in those days, messages from the Lord were very rare, and visions were quite uncommon.
- 1 Samuel 3:1
The author wants readers to realize that the Lord had not spoken to His people—through messages or visions—for some time. Now, the Lord is about to deliver a surprising message about Israel’s future to this young boy, Samuel.
Samuel was in his bed when he heard a voice calling his name. He immediately responded and went to Eli. This happened twice, and Eli told Samuel to go back to bed. However, the third time, the old priest realized it must be God calling the boy. He advised Samuel on how to respond the next time he heard his name called.
Samuel did not yet know the Lord because he had never had a message from the Lord before. So, the Lord called a third time, and once more, Samuel got up and went to Eli. “Here I am. Did you call me?”
Then Eli realized it was the Lord who was calling the boy. He said to Samuel, “Go and lie down again, and if someone calls again, say, ‘Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.’” So, Samuel went back to bed.
- 1 Samuel 3:7-9
I want to highlight Samuel’s quick response and obedience when his name was called. Three times, he heard someone calling him, and each time, he ran to Eli. Notice his words, “Here I am. Did you call me?” Samuel demonstrates the heart of a servant—listening and ready to obey and serve.
And the Lord came and called as before, “Samuel! Samuel!”
And Samuel replied, “Speak, your servant is listening.”
- 1 Samuel 3:10
This time, the Lord called Samuel’s name twice and appeared beside him. Samuel listened as the Lord delivered a shocking message against the priest, Eli, and his family. The Lord’s judgment was because of the blasphemous behavior of his sons and Eli’s failure to discipline them (see 1 Samuel 3:11-18). Samuel shared everything God said with Eli. The priest received the hard words of judgment as the Lord’s will.
Samuel learned early in life to listen to the word of the Lord. He served the Lord faithfully throughout his entire life, and the Lord was with him.
Head to Heart
When and where do you find time for peace and quiet with the Lord?
The peaceful stillness of the early morning hours brings joy and calm to my heart and soul. It’s a precious time to reflect on God’s Word and seek His guidance and direction.
Today’s Bible passage highlights the importance of listening to the Lord.
Sometimes my prayers just turn into my talking to God—listing my requests and asking the Lord to watch over family and friends.
Spend time reading a passage of Scripture, then highlight words, phrases, or sentences that stand out to you. Write them down on a notepad, pray over them, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts, words, and actions according to His purpose and will.
Jesus said, “Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!”
- Matthew 11:15
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Thank you for the reminder about Samuel's call and response of obediance---and spending time w/the Lord! Reminds me of Timothy being told not to let other believers look down on him because of his youth and challenging him to live by example. Praying for a year of good health and peace of mind for you and Walt Brenda! Steve Bauer