God Speaking Today

Answering God's Call: Responding with Hineni

In the quiet moments of the night, in the sacred space of the temple, a young boy named Samuel lay asleep. Little did he know, his life was about to change forever. The flickering lamp of the Lord had not yet gone out, and the voice of God called out to him, "Samuel, Samuel." Startled and unsure, Samuel ran to Eli the priest, thinking it was he who had called. After several attempts, Eli discerned that it was the Lord calling the boy. With guidance from Eli, Samuel responded, "Speak, for your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:4 NIV).

Samuel's story is a profound reminder of how God calls each of us in unique and unexpected ways. The response, "Here I am," echoes throughout Scripture in moments of profound surrender and readiness to serve.

In Hebrew, the phrase "Hineni" signifies this readiness. It is found in pivotal moments of faithfulness:

• Abraham's response to God's call to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22:1),
• Jacob's affirmation of God's guidance (Genesis 31:11),
• Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:4),
• Isaiah's willing declaration (Isaiah 6:8).

Each of these instances demonstrates a heart posture of readiness and obedience. They did not presume God's call or their own worthiness but responded with a humble "Here I am."

As Christians, it's easy to assume our identity based on our upbringing or surroundings. Samuel, though raised in the temple by the priest Eli, still needed a personal encounter with God. Similarly, being born into a Christian family does not automatically make us followers of Christ. We are called to respond personally to God's call on our lives.

Isaiah, when confronted with the holiness of God, willingly offered himself: "Here am I—send me, take me, use me, spend me." This radical availability is a challenge for each of us today. Are we willing to say, "Here I am," and surrender our plans, desires, and futures to God?

In Christ, we are part of a greater priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). We are chosen, holy, and set apart to declare His praises and serve His kingdom. Every morning, as we start our day, let us begin with "Hineni"—ready and willing to hear God's voice, to obey His call, and to follow Him wherever He leads.

May our lives reflect the readiness of Samuel, the obedience of Isaiah, and the bold declaration of Peter. Let us respond with faith and humility, saying, "Here I am, Lord. Use me as you will."