Pray For the Peace of Jerusalem
Even though the religious authorities were corrupt, the "Lamp of God had not yet gone out" in Israel. The Lampstand stood for the Very Presence of God in the Sanctuary, and Synagogues and Churches of many denominations still have a lamp lit to symbolize His Presence.
Samuel hears the Voice of God for the first time, and doesn't recognize Him. In other Scriptures we read that God communicates with His People with a "Small, Still Voice". It is not how we expect the Creator of the Universe to speak! We expect thunder, lightening, earthquakes, and a Big Booming Voice, but those instances are very rare. A big obvious display like that might get someone's attention and obedience, but it would be out of terror rather than love. The gentle wooing of the young Samuel will transform him from a servant boy in the House of the Lord to a Mighty Prophet and Judge in Israel.
How do we know if the voice we hear is that of God, rather than our own imagination? For one thing, it must agree with what God has already told us about Himself in His Word. People who "hear voices" telling them to sin are NOT hearing from God! Secondly, Samuel sought counsel from Eli, his spiritual mentor. And, most importantly, Samuel showed a willingness to LISTEN. May we all have a moment in our lives when we can honestly say, "Speak, LORD; Your servant is listening!"
Come and pray For the Peace of Jerusalem, For Our FRiends in Need, For Persecuted Believers, and For Our Beloved Nation.
Blessings To All Who Visit This Garden of Prayer.
This Symbol Represents Christians in The Middle East, who desperately need our Prayers.
Hallelujah and Amen
ML/LTOS