Truth is, we live in a world filled with distractions. Horrible news about loved ones in the media can grip us with fear and anguish. We are caught between our responsibilities to our families and careers while craving some downtime for one’s self. Social media would have us scrolling for hours because our attention is caught by entertainment. We even struggle with our own inadequacies and flaws – factors that can derail us from doing what we must. With all that’s happening around us and in us, it can be challenging to hear God’s voice and discern His guidance. However, we cannot discount the fact that it is essential to listen to the voice of God amid the noise. 

This concept is not new to us. It is littered throughout history, including the Bible, where God has called many persons to serve Him. Even when they thought of themselves as unqualified, God called them anyway. The story of Samuel’s call to service as outlined in 1 Samuel 3:1-10 is an example of that. It is one that has been shared in various settings and has become a familiar narrative to many of us. It is often presented from the perspective of God calling Samuel, the central figure in the book named after him. However, there is another significant character in this story who played a crucial role in Samuel’s journey of faith: Eli, the temple priest. Through his discernment and direction, Eli guided Samuel to listen to the voice of God and respond accordingly. In my reflections, here is what I realized:

Grasping the Voice of God 

In the times of Samuel’s youth, the Word of God was rare, and the people lacked a clear understanding of God’s voice. However, Eli, despite his own shortcomings, possessed the discernment to recognize that it was God calling Samuel. Eli’s capacity as a spiritual leader allowed him to comprehend the obscure and perceive God’s voice. We, too, can develop discernment by cultivating a relationship with God, spending time in prayer and fasting, studying His Word, and seeking fellowship with other believers. May we never think we can outgrow engaging in the various spiritual disciplines. As we draw near to God, He will reveal Himself to us, enabling us to differentiate His voice from the noise around us.

Eli’s proximity to the ark of the covenant, representing God’s presence, also contributed to his ability to discern. Similarly, when we position ourselves close to God, through prayer and intimate communion, we create an environment where we are more receptive to hearing His voice. By staying in proximity to God, we can recognize His call and respond accordingly.

Guiding Others in Faith 

Eli not only discerned God’s voice but also provided direction to Samuel. He instructed the young boy to go back to his place and be available to God’s call after identifying and making sense of Samuel’s experience. Eli’s advice emphasized the importance of availability and humility. We, too, should make ourselves available to be used by God, putting aside our own desires and focusing on His will. As servants of God, we should humbly position ourselves to hear His voice, responding with faith and reverence.

Just as Eli guided Samuel, we have a responsibility to offer direction to those around us. Our words and actions can either draw people closer to God or push them away. By pointing others to the life and work of Christ, exemplifying humility, and making ourselves available for His service, we become vessels of God’s grace and love. We must not take lightly the influence we have on the younger generation, teaching them the ways of the Lord and encouraging them to follow His path.

In a world filled with distractions and false teachings, it is crucial for us to discern God’s voice and offer direction to those seeking Him. Like Eli, we may have our own flaws and struggles, but God can still use us to fulfill His purpose. By humbly availing ourselves and positioning our hearts close to God, we can hear His voice clearly and respond in obedience. Furthermore, we have a vital role in directing others towards Christ, being a light in the midst of darkness. Let us embrace this particular example set by Eli, discerning God’s voice and directing others with wisdom and love. May we faithfully fulfill our calling, knowing that God is faithful to complete the work He has started in us.

^{Photo by Anna Might (IG:@annamighttakepics)}