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)
