Listen

1 Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the LORD under Eli. The word of the Lord was rare in those days; visions were not widespread. (1 Samuel 3:1)

The opening verse of the third chapter of 1st Samuel states that the "word of the Lord was rare" at that time, but I wonder if God rarely spoke or if, like now, people rarely listened. During times of difficulty and disappointment we have a hard time focusing on anything or anyone besides ourselves. During times of rejoicing we tend to forget our need for God. And when we do pause to seek God, we often only want a genie to grant our wishes or a yes-man to affirm our rightness.

Although Samuel didn't know it was God who called him, Samuel answered with a servant's heart, "Here I am". Then Eli, Samuel's boss and surrogate father, gave Samuel the response that would prepare him to hear what God had to say.

9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel, "Go, lie down; and if he calls you, you shall say, 'Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.'" So Samuel went and lay down in his place. (1 Samuel 3:9)

God still speaks to all who are receptive. May God give us humble and repentant hearts that we would hear all that God is saying. May we stand willing and ready to move in compassion on the wisdom and guidance we receive.

20 Out in the open wisdom calls aloud,

she raises her voice in the public square;

21 at noisy street corners she cries out,

at the city gate she makes her speech:

22 “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?

How long will mockers delight in mockery

and fools hate knowledge?

23 Repent at my rebuke!

Then I will pour out my thoughts to you,

I will make known to you my teachings. (Proverbs 1:20-23)