The Quandary Of Compliance

1 Samuel 3:15

God does not communicate with us in overt manners, but rather in methods that are prone to misinterpretation, leading us to ponder, “Could that be the voice of God?” Isaiah stated that the Lord communicated with him, “with a strong hand,” signifying the influence of circumstances. All experiences in our lives are manifestations of God's communication. Do we perceive His influence or merely random events? Adopt the practice of uttering, “Speak, Lord,” and existence will transform into a romance.

In times of pressure, utter, “Speak, Lord”; allocate time to heed. Chastening serves not merely as a disciplinary measure; it aims to lead me to the point of uttering, “Speak, Lord.” Remember the moment when God communicated with you. Have you overlooked His statements? Was it Luke 11:13 or 1 Thessalonians 5:23? As we listen, our hearing becomes sensitive, and like Jesus, we shall perceive God continuously. Should I disclose to my "Eli" what God has revealed to me? This is where the quandary of obedience arises.

We defy God by assuming the role of amateur providences; I must protect "Eli," the finest individuals we know. God did not instruct Samuel to inform Eli; he had to make that decision alone. God's summons to you may cause distress to your "Eli," but attempting to avert misery in another's existence will create a barrier between your soul and God. Your own detriment lies in obstructing the severance of the right hand or the extraction of the eye. Do not seek counsel from others over matters that God has entrusted to your judgment. Seeking counsel often leads one to align with malevolent forces. “I did not consult with any human beings at once.”

1 Samuel 3:15 states:

Samuel remained till dawn and thereafter opened the doors of the house of the Lord. He felt apprehensive about disclosing the vision to Eli.* (New International Version)

This verse highlights several crucial points of emphasis:

1. **Samuel's Compliance** - Notwithstanding the disquieting aspect of his vision, Samuel exhibits compliance in his conduct. He spends the night at the temple and opens the doors of the Lord's home in the morning. This demonstrates a degree of dedication and obligation to his tasks.

2. **The Significance of the Message** - Samuel's apprehension in conveying the vision to Eli underscores the gravity of the revelation he heard from God. He comprehends the seriousness of the prophecy concerning Eli's household and their forthcoming judgment. It underscores that at times, divine communications may be arduous to endure, particularly when they pertain to admonition or evaluation.

3. **The Dynamic Between Mentor and Protégé** - Samuel's reluctance to inform Eli underscores the emotional and relational complexities between them. Samuel has received guidance from Eli, and the vision pertains to Eli's shortcomings as a priest and the repercussions for his family. The tension illustrates the challenge of conveying tough truths to an individual whom one respects and cares for.

4. **Divine Calling and Timing** - Samuel's apprehension also embodies the ambiguity associated with divine vocation. The divine communication to Samuel was profound, however he needed to ascertain the appropriate timing and method for its conveyance. The time of God is paramount, and Samuel's reluctance illustrates the human aspect of obedience, even in the face of daunting tasks.

5. **Fear and Valor in Prophetic Ministry** - Samuel's trepidation regarding the prophecy highlights the bravery required to advocate for God. Being a prophet is challenging; it entails conveying messages that may not be well accepted. Samuel's reluctance is a universally understandable experience; nonetheless, his eventual readiness to convey the word demonstrates a dedication to divine purpose over individual ease.

6. **The Function of the Prophet** - This verse underscores that a prophet's duty encompasses not just receiving divine messages but also conveying them, occasionally with reluctance. The dread present does not diminish the call; it underscores the weight and obligation associated with the prophetic role.

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