Preparing Our Hearts for Annual Session: 30 Days of Prayer and Devotion - Day 19

Day 19 – Listening for God’s Voice

Rev. Dr. Lillian Ramos

Pastor, First Baptist Church of Kearny

ABCNJ Vice President 

Scripture:  1 Samuel 3:9–10 — "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”

Reflection:

In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to hear God's voice. Our minds are often filled with so much noise. Yet God still speaks to His people - through His Word, His Spirit, wise counsel, and the quiet prompting of our hearts.

The way we come into God's presence often determines how we receive His message. Are you ready to receive it?

I’ve learned a powerful lesson about listening. If I hear the same message, I must recognize that God is speaking. With Eli's guidance, Samuel learned what every believer should say, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." Those simple words reveal humility, readiness, trust, and an open heart.

Listening to God’s voice when He speaks will reveal God’s plans and direction for our lives. So the question is not just: “What is God trying to tell me?” The question is: “Am I willing to listen, receive, and obey?”

Today, make Samuel's prayer your own: "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening. Allow me to receive your word. " As you listen with faith and obey with courage, you will discover that God's guidance is always timely, purposeful, and filled with His love.

Prayer: Speak, Lord, for Your servants are listening. Quiet the noise within and around us so we may recognize Your voice in Scripture, through Your Spirit, and in the wisdom of others. Grant us humble hearts, ready not only to hear Your word but also to receive, trust, and courageously follow where You lead. Amen.

Practice: Find a quiet place and read 1 Samuel 3:9–10 slowly several times. Sit in silence for a few minutes, praying, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.” Rather than filling the silence with words, pay attention to what God may be bringing to your heart.