Three Simple Words

Three simple words. Some of the greatest godly men have said them: Abraham (Genesis 22), Jacob (Genesis 31 and 46), Moses (Exodus 3), Samuel (1 Samuel 3)—all responded when God called on them and they simply said, “Here I am.”

Clearly this response has a much deeper meaning than the mere obviousness of the words themselves. It behooves us to understand just what these men were saying when they responded to God’s call.

Certainly these weren’t situations where God was actually searching for them, calling out for them, and they responded by saying, “Over here, God; here I am…over here.” God knew where they were, and they knew that God knew where they were. Take the “searching” aspect out of the mix and this leaves us with a much deeper and personal response. These men were really saying, “I’m here for You. What is it I can do for You?” Now that is a whole different proposition altogether.

Many times in my life I’ve played the same game Adam and Eve played in the garden; when God inquired as to their whereabouts, they hid…or so they thought. Yeah, right…like hiding from God is possible. Still, we often try to do just that. We’re ashamed, embarrassed, hurt, pissed off…so many reasons to shy away from our Heavenly Father.

The model we have been given from great men of God throughout history is that they all shared one notable attribute: when God called, they said , “Here I am.”

I pray that each person on this planet can bring themselves to say these three words. Say them when asked if they wish to accept His free gift of salvation. Say them when we’re all asked to do something outside our comfort zone. Say them when we find ourselves in the darkest places, and listen to God call our name. It’s tough to say, “Here I am” to our Creator. It’s tough to step out of our need to be in control and listen to Him when we don’t know what He’s going to be saying or asking of us. But, by golly, I do know that when I’ve said these words, blessings come and growth happens.

Three simple words; perhaps not so simple. But three of the most important words we can add to our daily vocabulary.

Greg Morton
© June 15, 2009