Listening To/For God

The LORD came, stood there, and called as before, "Samuel, Samuel!" Samuel responded, "Speak, for Your servant is listening." 1 Samuel 3:10, HCSB

Sometimes as a husband I am accused of "seeming to pay attention" as my wife speaks to me but, not really listening to anything being said.   Though I do not concur with that assessment (LOL), there is a lesson learned from that illustration we need to learn.

In order to really listen, the husband who is guilty of such action,  must focus his attention on what his wife is saying. Sometimes, this simple act requires a great deal of effort to accomplish.

In the scripture above, Samuel could not remotely imagine that one night God was calling him. Samuel thought it was Eli the priest who called his name since the voice was so personal. Eli helped young Samuel understand God was speaking.  We need to understand that God IS speaking to us these days as well!  Just as intimately as the personal call on young Samuel.  I pray we will hear Him!

Samuel took Eli’s advice and promptly answered God correctly.  There is a LOT in that statement.  Samuel LISTENED to the sagely advice being afforded him.  We need to be open to the counsel of God's people (and even those that might not be walking as they should currently) as they remind us that God IS talking and we should listen to Him/for Him.

Some of us may have never heard the voice of God in such a personal manner. Although we may never hear Him audibly, we must develop an attitude of careful listening if we are to hear God calling our name speaking to us. We must learn to focus all of our attention on God. Then, in the stillness of our souls, we will recognize His voice. At times, we must be willing to seek guidance from our spiritual leaders in order for this personal encounter to take place.

My prayer this day (as I prepare to head out for worship with my church family) is this -- Father, focus my attention so I can listen to You.  Perhaps I will add---Father, touch my heart so I WILL listen to You!