What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 3:4? Then • The verse opens with a simple time marker: “Then.” It links directly to 1 Samuel 3:1-3, where God’s word was “rare” and “visions were scarce.” Into that spiritual drought, God acts. • Scripture often uses small words to show decisive moments—compare Genesis 22:1 (“After these things”) and Acts 2:1 (“When the day of Pentecost came”). Each signals a turning point orchestrated by the Lord. • The timing reminds us that God is never late; His interventions arrive exactly when He intends (Galatians 4:4). the LORD called • The initiative is entirely God’s. Samuel doesn’t seek a revelation; God breaks the silence. • Similar divine summons appear in Exodus 3:4 (Moses), Isaiah 6:8 (Isaiah), and Acts 9:4 (Saul). Each time, God’s voice is personal, unmistakable, and authoritative. • The literal wording underscores that the Lord still speaks to real people in real history—His word is not myth but fact (Hebrews 1:1-2). to Samuel • God singles out a young boy serving faithfully in the tabernacle (1 Samuel 3:1). Age, status, or experience do not limit divine choice—seen also with Jeremiah 1:5 and Mary in Luke 1:26-30. • By naming Samuel, the Lord affirms personal relationship; He knows His servants by name (John 10:3). • This personal call shows grace: Samuel didn’t earn it; God simply chose him (Ephesians 2:8-9). and he answered • Samuel’s immediate response models readiness. There is no delay, excuse, or bargaining—just action. • Comparable obedience appears in Isaiah 6:8 (“Here am I. Send me!”) and Acts 9:10 (“Yes, Lord,” answered Ananias). • Quick obedience reflects trust that God’s voice is good and authoritative (John 14:15). "Here I am." • The phrase (also in Genesis 22:1; Exodus 3:4) conveys availability, attentiveness, and surrender. • “Here I am” states presence before it seeks instruction; relationship precedes assignment. • The words prefigure Christ’s own readiness in Hebrews 10:7 (“Here I am…to do Your will, O God”), inviting every believer to echo the same posture (Romans 12:1). summary A moment of history—“Then”—becomes a life-changing encounter because the living God speaks into spiritual dryness. The Lord takes the initiative, calls Samuel by name, and the young servant responds without hesitation, “Here I am.” The verse paints a timeless picture: God still calls, personally and purposefully, and He seeks the same willing, immediate answer from every heart that hears His voice. |
    |