Speak, Lord

The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”

(1 Samuel 3:10)

Little Samuel was ministering before the Lord under Eli, the priest. One night, as Samuel was lying down in the temple, God called to him. Thinking it was Eli, Samuel ran to his side. After this happened a second time, Eli realized that God must be calling Samuel. Eli told Samuel what to say if he heard his name a third time. When God spoke again, Samuel replied by saying, “Speak, for your servant is listening.”

God has numerous ways of getting our attention. It has been said that God whispers in our pleasure and shouts in our pain. Have you found that God has your undivided attention more during times of tragedy, unanswered prayer, disappointment, or financial difficulty?

When enduring the storms of life, we have a choice. We can either turn toward God or away from Him—becoming better or bitter. Focus on running toward God. Respond by looking at every aspect of your life. Ask Him to clarify what He is trying to show you and how He wants you to proceed. May we all respond like Samuel did, saying, “Speak for your servant is listening.”