FAITH CAPSULE: Knowing to quote the scripture is not an evidence of knowing God.

1 Samuel 3

To be a believer that is living life by the word of God is the evidence of knowing God. Many know about the word and they are short of living by the word of God. It is possible for one to live all life in the church and not know God but only know about God. There is a difference in knowing about God and knowing God. Once a knowing is set in the life of a believer, living godly will become such believer’s identity. It is written in the book of, 1Samuel 3:1, “Now the boy Samuel ministered to the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation.” The fact that the boy Samuel was ministering to the Lord before Eli was not evident that Samuel knew God, but only knew about God. When the Lord came calling on Samuel, Samuel could not relate neither could he identify with the word which called Him out. The Lord repeatedly called Samuel but Samuel had no understanding of where the callings were coming from, “Then the LORD called yet again, Samuel!” So Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” He answered, “I did not call, my son; lie down again.”  (Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, nor was the word of the LORD yet revealed to him.” (1 Samuel 3:6-7)

At the time of Samuel’s calling there was no understanding of who God was and Samuel could not answer like one that knows God. Knowledge is wealth and it is also the power to be different when there is understanding and knowledge. Eli, by virtue of his understanding and knowledge with the Lord, directed 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.” (1 Samuel 3:9) Samuel with understanding that was acquired knew exactly what to do and hear from God. It is written, “Now the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant hears.” Then the LORD said to Samuel…” (1 Samuel 3:10-11) The boy Samuel understood and he knew how to hear from God and it made the difference of His knowing God. Knowing to quote the scripture is not an evidence of knowing God. Know the word of God and live by it to demonstrate that you are one that knows God. Do you know God or you are one that only knows so much about the word of God? Gain the understanding of knowing Him and you will be enabled living life for His glory.

Prayer for today: Ask God for the grace to know you more of Him that you may live life for His glory.