“…and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, ‘Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears.’” 1 Samuel 3:9

The Ear of a Servant

When I think about all God means to me and the beautiful things He has brought to me in my life, I sometimes feel that I am not doing enough to show my love and appreciation of who He is to me. I remember great men and women of God who have accomplished great things in their lives for the glory of His name. Who am I?

And then I read of young Samuel. He is doing the simple tasks God has set before him. Day in and day out he serves in a humble and unheralded position. He serves in the place he was put and does not seek another office or another location. He is content to do the ordinary things required of him with a humble and willing heart. No trumpets or accolades. No recognition or reward. He displays willing obedience to do the daily duties, the commonplace errands, the routine, the mundane and familiar.

And was God pleased with that consistent and devoted service? Yes, He was pleased. Samuel’s faithfulness in small things was noted. God called Samuel to other things because He saw Samuel was found faithful to do the “whatevers” of ministry work.

There are times for valiant deeds and there are times for day-to-day dependability. It is not the size of the task that matters, but the willingness of the heart to serve. Let God decide the timing and the working out of His purposes, whatever they may entail. We can relax in His wisdom knowing He sees our hearts of obedience. He accepts our sacrifice of service.

The beauty of wisdom in the above verse is that all we have to do is answer. If He calls you, hear Him and be that servant willing to do whatever—be it great or small.

“Father, it is an honor to serve You. Our prayer is that we serve well wherever we may find ourselves, in any and all circumstances. Grant us the ear of a servant. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”