“And Samuel was afraid to tell Eli the vision” (1 Samuel 3:15).
God often speaks to us in subtle ways, and if we are not attentive, we may become confused and question whether we are truly hearing His voice. Isaiah mentioned that the Lord spoke to him “with a strong hand,” suggesting that, often, God guides us through the pressure of circumstances. Instead of resisting or becoming distracted, we should develop the habit of saying: “Speak, Lord.” When difficulties arise and life seems to push us in a certain direction, we must stop and listen. God always speaks, but are we willing to listen?
The story of Samuel clearly illustrates this principle. When God spoke to him, Samuel faced a dilemma: should he tell the prophet Eli what he had received from the Lord? This situation reveals an essential test of obedience. Often, God’s call to us may displease others, and there is the temptation to hesitate to avoid conflict. However, refusing to obey the Lord out of fear of hurting or displeasing someone creates a barrier between our soul and God. Samuel was honored because his obedience was unquestionable; he did not place his own logic or feelings above the divine voice.
Intimacy with God, clarity of direction, and material and spiritual blessings only come when obedience becomes an automatic response to the Lord’s voice. We do not need to wait for an audible call or an extraordinary sign, for God has already given us clear commands in His Word. It all begins with the commandments He has revealed, and when we respond promptly with “Speak, Lord!”, we show that we are willing to walk in truth and receive all that He has for us. -Adapted from O. Chambers. Until tomorrow, if the Lord permits.
Pray with me: Dear God, it is true that You always speak, but often my attention is scattered and I do not perceive Your voice. I know that You do not always speak in a thunderous manner; often, You use circumstances and situations to guide me. Teach me to have an attentive heart, ready to recognize Your direction, without hesitation or doubt. May my first reaction in any situation always be to say: “Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears.”
My Father, today I ask You to give me the courage to obey without fearing the consequences. Just as Samuel had to face a difficult moment in delivering Your message, I know that often my faithfulness to You may displease others. But I do not want to hesitate or place my own logic above Your will. May my obedience be unquestionable, so that I never create barriers between my soul and Your presence. Help me to choose Your ways above any human opinion.
Oh, Most Holy God, I worship and praise You because You have revealed Your will clearly in Your Word. I do not need to wait for extraordinary signs, for You have already given me Your commandments as a guide. Thank You because, by faithfully following Your will, I find intimacy with You, clarity in direction, and all the blessings You have reserved for those who obey You. Your beloved Son is my eternal Prince and Savior. Your powerful Law is the sound that echoes peace in my heart. Your commandments are the melody of my life. I pray in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
