There is nothing more life-changing than hearing the voice of God and responding in obedience. His voice brings clarity in confusion, comfort in fear, and direction when we feel lost. Yet, like Samuel, sometimes we don’t immediately recognize it.
The story in 1 Samuel 3 introduces us to a young boy serving in the temple. In the stillness of the night, Samuel heard a voice calling his name. Thinking it was his mentor, Eli, he ran to him for guidance. Only after several encounters did Eli realize it was God speaking, and he instructed Samuel to respond with openness: “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
This story reminds us of something profoundly important: hearing God’s voice often takes time, discernment, and humility. We may not recognize it right away. Sometimes His whispers sound like the voices around us, and other times they come through Scripture, a thought, or even a perfectly timed word from a friend.
So how do we posture ourselves to hear Him? It begins with prayer, but not just prayer filled with words. It also requires prayer that makes room for silence. In those quiet spaces, we invite God to speak: “Lord, is there anything You want to show me? Is there something You want to place on my heart?” Listening is just as vital as speaking in our relationship with Him.
If you’ve ever felt frustrated that you can’t hear God clearly, you’re not alone. Many of us have been there. But don’t give up. Keep praying. Keep seeking. Keep filling your heart with His Word, because when His voice comes, you’ll recognize it. Sometimes it’s a verse that suddenly shines with new meaning, a thought that feels divinely placed, or even the “coincidence” of hearing the same message from multiple sources at once.
Hearing God’s voice is less about striving and more about relationship. Just as Samuel learned through Eli’s guidance, we, too, may need the wisdom of others to help us discern. That’s why community, Scripture, and prayer all work together to tune our hearts to God’s frequency.
And here’s the beautiful truth: God wants to speak to His children. He delights in guiding us, reassuring us, and inviting us deeper into His purposes. The question is: are we listening?
May we become like Samuel, who positioned his heart to receive with expectancy and humility. May our daily prayer echo his words: “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.”
Because when God speaks, He not only transforms our circumstances, He transforms us.
REFLECTION PROMPT:
When was the last time you slowed down long enough to listen to God’s voice? This week, set aside a few quiet minutes each day to pray, then be still and say, “Speak, Lord, I’m listening.” Amen.
