Scripture Verse: “So Eli told Samuel, ‘Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”’ So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’
Then Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.’” 1 Samuel 3:9-10 NIV
Bible Reading: Genesis 41:37-41; Isaiah 32:3; Ephesians 1:18
This week’s set of devotionals is taken from Mind Gum: Devotions for Men by Todd Stahl and Joe Amaral. Used with permission.
“I nominate you to the Ice Bucket Challenge!” became a common phrase a number of years ago, and more importantly, brought awareness of ALS disease to the forefront.
Millions of people around the globe summoned friends and family to step up, meet the challenge, and donate within twenty-four hours. Since the challenge went viral, over $220 million has been raised!
About five years after the challenge, my brother-in-law was diagnosed with ALS. Collin has been a solid rock of Christian faith with a phenomenal attitude. At one fundraising event, the coordinator asked Collin to do a short talk. Even though his voice had become weaker, we all stood and listened as his words hit our hearts loudly.
Collin is definitely answering the call to make an impact.
In 1 Samuel 3:10, Samuel says, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” When God speaks, He commands our attention. Are you listening for God’s voice in your life?
Samuel heard and responded well to God’s call; so did a man by the name of Lou Gehrig. ALS is often referred to as “Lou Gehrig’s disease” after the famous baseball player revealed his diagnosis during the prime of his career.
Years before Lou Gehrig became a well-known name, Lou’s teammate Wally Pipp came to the ballpark with a splitting headache. Asking for two aspirins, the team manager said, “Wally, take the day off—we’ll try that kid Gehrig.”
The moment the manager called his name, Lou snatched the opportunity. He was prepared and eagerly anticipated the challenge. Immediately Gehrig stepped into his destiny. This was the first game in Gehrig’s amazing record of 2130 consecutive games spanning fourteen seasons!
Have you been sitting on the bench waiting for your name to be called? Are you going through the motions of everyday life unaware, or with your ears closed to God’s voice?
Often, we get pulled into “the daily grind,” and over time, our dreams and God-given talents become covered over with dirt, hidden away from sight. It takes work and devotion to follow God’s lead, and prayer to ask God to uncover those talents He has given us.
Will you be ready to respond when God calls your name?
Just like the Ice Bucket Challenge, listen for your name and get in the game!
Prayer: Lord, help me be ready for Your call! Help me to see clearly what You are asking of me, and give me the courage to step out and obey. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Reflection: Take some time today to think about the men of the Bible who were elevated by God. Their faithfulness, dedication and perseverance brought the reward. It didn’t come easy. They all were ready and more than willing to accept the challenge. What can they teach you?
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