Here I Am

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And the Lord called Samuel; and he said, “Here I am.” I Samuel 3: 4 NASB

 

     Here I am. 

     This phrase was repeated throughout Samuel’s life as he obeyed God and served people. 

     Samuel was the babe Hannah had desperately prayed for when she made her annual trek to Jerusalem. When God remembered her, and opened her womb, she dedicated him back to the Lord and left him with Eli, the priest. Hannah trusted the Lord.

     Twelve years passed. God was silent; a word from the Lord uncommon in those days. Also, no visions were seen or spoken of. However, the lamp of the Lord was not yet extinguished. 

     The Lord called Samuel, but he didn’t know Him yet. When Samuel finally realized it was the Lord, and not Eli, he responded immediately in faith, “Speak, for your servant is listening!” (I Samuel 3: 10) 

     God was about to do something in Israel that would cause all to pay attention.

     We too are living in wilderness times. Everyone is doing what is right in their own eyes. Truth is scarce. How is God calling you to respond? 

     A boy shared his lunch, 5 barley loaves and 2 fish, and a miracle occurred. Five thousand were fed! Everyone ate and was satisfied. They gathered leftovers; and no piece was wasted. (John 6:9) Then a sinful woman bravely entered a room uninvited and showed hospitality to Jesus. She broke her alabaster jar of expensive perfume and washed and anointed Jesus’ feet. She loved much. (Luke 7: 36-39) David was a lunch carrier for his brothers before he fought Goliath and was anointed king. (I Samuel 16 &17) Likewise, Jonathan’s armor bearer committed to him and the battle, “Do all that is in your heart; turn yourself, and here I am with you according to your desire.” (I Samuel 14:7)

     Here I am. 

     Three words. Total trust and commitment exemplified. Are you all in? Present and available?

     A call for obedience and service may be what lands next at your door . . . an unexpected intrusion or invitation, a costly sacrifice and expression of hospitality, a cup of cold water, meal, or a unified front to fight the enemy of all enemies. 

     Do you love much or love little? The Lord is witness to our response. 

     Fear the Lord alone and serve Him in Truth; listen to His voice and obey all His commands. And it will go well with you and your family.  A promise to live by . . . Eternity’s hope!

  Here I am.

Lily Mae 

Here I am; bear witness against me before the Lord and His anointed. 

I Samuel 12: 3 NASB