I Samuel 3:8‭-‬10 And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. So he arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you did call me.” Then Eli perceived that the Lord had called the boy. Therefore Eli said to Samuel, “Go, lie down; and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say, ‘Speak, Lord , for Your servant hears.’ ” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. Now the Lord came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.”

I have failed as a Pastor and as a leader if my flock cannot do anything without consulting me. If after some time of training, they cannot hear from the Lord and must always repeat and quote exactly what I say, I have failed.

And yet, this is what some Pastors delight in. They love to keep the congregation as lambs forever, to always depend on them for everything. This could be due to ignorance, or insecurity, or sheer wickedness and greed. This is wrong and is a departure from the duty of EQUIPPING THE SAINTS FOR THE WORK OF MINISTRY.

Prophet Eli knew this too well, so he taught little Samuel how to hear and discern and respond to God’s voice for himself. And this is how the boy Samuel grew to become the great prophet Samuel who did so much for Israel.

Dear Shepherd,

GIVE SPACE FOR PEOPLE TO GROW AND KNOW GOD FOR THEMSELVES. Don’t domineer/lord over the Lord’s flock in your charge(1Pet 5:3). Be admonished. Glory to God!

              GRACEFUL MORNING