When God Is Speaking, Are We Listening?
1 Samuel 3 | 1 Samuel 4 | Psalm 78: 58-66 | Acts 4: 23-31
I used to think that if God called me to something, I’d know it. Like a yard sign or a church letter board saying, “This is your purpose.”
I figured the calling would feel obvious and sure. But what I’m learning is that hearing from God is rarely that obvious.
In 1 Samuel 3, we meet a young boy lying in the dark, half-asleep, when he hears a voice call his name. He gets up, heart probably pounding, and runs to Eli. But Eli hadn’t called him. This happened three times. It wasn’t until the fourth call that Samuel finally responded with the words:
“Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.”
That line sounds so strong and faithful, but let’s not miss this: even Samuel (the prophet, the one God would use to anoint kings) didn’t recognize God’s voice at first. He needed guidance. He needed help. He needed someone older and wiser to help him understand what was happening.
Friend, that gives me so much peace. Because I’ve been there—trying to figure out if what I’m sensing is really from God, or just my own heart talking back. I've wrestled with fear and second-guessing, especially when what I felt led to do didn’t make perfect sense or didn’t fit what I expected.
It's not always a loud voice or a clear sign. And sometimes, like Samuel, we miss it the first few times. That doesn’t mean God gives up on us. He keeps calling.
We may not be prophets, but we are daughters of a God who speaks. A God who patiently calls us by name, again and again, until we learn to recognize His voice. And just like Samuel, we are not left to figure it out alone. God has placed people around us - mentors, friends, spiritual leaders - who help remind us that our fear doesn’t disqualify us from being used by God.
So maybe today, your heart is full of questions like mine. You’re waiting for clarity. Or maybe you’re already sensing God asking something of you, but you feel unsure, unprepared, or even a little scared. That doesn’t mean you’re off track. It means you’re in good company.
Lean into His Word. Listen with expectancy. And don’t be afraid to say:
“Lord, I don’t know for sure what You’re saying, but I’m listening.”
Reflection Questions
Have you ever felt unsure if something was truly from God? How did you respond?
Who in your life can you go to for spiritual guidance and wise counsel?
What might it look like for you to listen for God’s voice with fresh expectation this week?
Jesus,
You are patient when I don’t always recognize Your voice. Thank You for calling me, even when I miss it the first time. Help me grow more sensitive to Your Spirit. Surround me with wise voices who can encourage and guide me. And give me a willing heart, one that says, “Speak, Lord, I’m listening,” even when I feel unsure. I trust You to lead me, step by step.
Amen.
