Noted preacher and theologian Helmut Thielicke (1908–1986) endured great
opposition from the Nazi regime in Germany during the 1930s and 1940s. Yet he
remained committed to proclaiming God’s presence and power in Jesus Christ
during a difficult and perplexing time. Scholar Robert Smith said that as
Thielicke addressed modern issues and problems in his sermons, “he sought to answer
the question, ‘Is there any word from the Lord?’”
Isn’t that what each of us is seeking today? What has God said that will
strengthen and guide us through the difficulties and opportunities we face?
First Samuel 3 describes a time when “the word of the Lord was rare”
(v.1). When God spoke to young Samuel, the boy mistakenly thought it was the
aging priest Eli calling him. Eli told the boy to respond to God’s voice by
saying, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears” (v.9). Samuel listened, and he
became known as a man who lived faithfully and fearlessly, “for the Lord
revealed Himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the Lord” (v.21).
Whenever we open the Bible, listen to a sermon, or pause to pray, it’s a
wonderful practice to say, “Lord Jesus, speak to me. I’m ready to listen and
eager to obey.”
God speaks through His Word to those who listen with their heart. (RBC)
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