I Samuel 3:8-9
“That’s when it dawned on Eli that GOD was calling the boy. So Eli directed Samuel, ‘Go back and lie down. If the voice calls again, say, ‘Speak, GOD. I’m your servant, ready to listen.’’ Samuel returned to his bed.”
“Then Eli realized it was the Lord who was calling the boy. So he said to Samuel, ‘Go and lie down again, and if someone calls again, say, ‘Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.’’ So Samuel went back to bed.”
After the third time God called for Samuel’s attention Eli understood. Now, with Samuel in readiness, God called to Samuel a fourth time. God called four times before Samuel was able to listen. The Lord of the universe is just as patient with us, when it takes four of his calls before we can clear our heads and ears of the world’s cacophony. Truly, he loves us very much!
Lord, thank you for this affirmation of your love for even me. You pursue me faithfully to shape me more fully into your image. I am in awe of you and whelmed with gratitude. I love you too.