Learning to Listen

A young minister’s wife was having all kinds of health challenges during her first pregnancy. After getting her to the hospital again, just in time, he sat in the car and cried. He wanted to protect his wife, take away her pain, and ensure the outcome was a healthy mom and baby at the end. But it was out of his hands.

“Speak, for Your servant hears.”
– 1 Samuel 3:10 NKJV

Exhausted, the young man waited for a text to know that the medical procedure they were doing was completed and he could go back to his wife’s room, God’s presence fell over him. And he felt in his heart God speak through his thoughts, “Son, I am well pleased with you.”

He cried with relief. He didn’t know how the pregnancy would go, but he suddenly felt assured he was doing everything His heavenly Father expected of him.
God speaks to all of us differently; he created us individually so we shouldn’t expect Him to speak to us like he does anyone else.

God speaks to those who are willing to listen. Quiet your heart, and you will hear His voice.

In today’s verse, Samuel’s simple, open-hearted response marked the beginning of his journey as a prophet. He would go on to play a significant role in guiding Israel, but it all started with his willingness to listen.

We may not always recognize God’s voice immediately. It takes practice, stillness, and a heart ready to respond. God doesn’t just speak to prophets or priests—He desires to communicate with each of us. Whether through Scripture, the prompting of the Holy Spirit, or quiet moments of reflection, God’s voice brings wisdom and clarity to our lives.

When we create space in our prayer time to listen, we echo Samuel’s prayer, opening ourselves to the guidance and purpose God has for us. God speaks to us in many ways—through His Word, the Holy Spirit’s prompting, or even in the quiet stillness of our hearts.

Today’s One Thing
During your prayer time today, reflect on Samuel’s story and ask God to help you listen well. Take two minutes of stillness, inviting Him to speak, and write down anything that comes to mind—scriptures, thoughts, instructions, or encouragement.

Go Deeper

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