The Word of the 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 NASB

In ancient Greece, people sought to see into the future through oracles. Shrines were built for many oracles, where gods were “consulted.” According to Encyclopedia Britannica, in an attempt to hear from these gods, sometimes lots were cast. In other cases, “an inspired person” gave the answer.

The most famous oracle was of Apollo at Delphi. There, people sought a woman “who lived apart from her husband and dressed in a maiden’s clothes.” She could only be consulted at specific times. Elaborate procedures were followed, and the woman would engage in rituals that included chewing on leaves from “Apollo’s sacred tree.” And her words “were interpreted and written down by the priests in what was often highly ambiguous verse.”

These pagan rituals contrast sharply with the way in which Almighty God speaks to His people. We see the simplicity of this process in the life of Samuel. Even though he was just a boy, all Samuel needed was to be available for God to speak, and then to listen for His voice. For God always was with him.

Eli the priest helped Samuel realize that God was calling. The boy humbly told God, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” This began a lifetime pattern in which Samuel heard from Him.

This also reinforces a basic truth: We cannot force God to speak, by any ritual. As Samuel discovered, He is sovereign, speaking in His time, in His way. But the overriding fact is that He wants a personal relationship with each of us.

Today, seek to draw closer to God. Fill your mind with His Word. Seek to become more sensitive to His Spirit. Come before Him in prayer. Listen to Him. Tell Him that you are ready to hear.

Prayer: Father, I desire a more intimate relationship with You. Speak to me. Help me to recognize Your voice. Open my heart to Your truths. Draw me closer to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.