Samuel heard the Lord speak clearly. He didn’t hesitate or question; he followed through immediately and anointed Saul as king. Samuel knew what God desired because Samuel listened.

In 1 Samuel 8, however, we read of Samuel’s wicked sons who failed to walk in the ways of their father. When I read that chapter I wondered why Samuel’s sons had not followed his example. I don’t know. I feel sure that this godly man prayed for his family.

But I know sometimes I’ve felt like a failure as a parent, even though I’ve tried to be a good example. I’ve prayed for myself and for my children, asking for wisdom about how to bring them up. But still they don’t always choose wisely and sometimes I feel that their mistakes are my fault.

Then I remember Samuel. His problems with his sons could have caused him to waver and doubt his ability to hear God. Instead, he continued to listen to him and to obey. I have that same choice—to let my failures, perceived or real, keep me second guessing my ability to hear God. Or, like Samuel, I can choose to listen and obey.

Prayer: Dear Lord, sometimes, even when we seek your direction, failure comes and we question if we really heard you. Help us to listen when we feel like hesitating. Amen