Definition: Then Eli called Samuel, and said, Samuel, my son. And he answered, Here [am] I.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from 1 Samuel 3:16. It's a really significant moment in the story of God choosing Samuel to be his prophet. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is about obedience and faith. It’s saying that Samuel immediately agreed to be God’s messenger, even though he was initially hesitant or unsure. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Eli called Samuel…” : This refers to the King of Israel, Eli. He was feeling a bit uneasy about this new role – being chosen as a prophet. “…and said, Samuel, my son.” : This is a formal acknowledgment. Eli recognized Samuel as the person God had chosen. “And he answered, Here [am] I.” This is the crucial part. “Here I am” is a phrase used by Moses in the Old Testament. It’s a declaration of his readiness and willingness to fulfill God's command. He’s saying, "I accept this responsibility; I will do what you ask." What does it mean practically? It’s about obedience: Samuel was willing to follow God’s instructions, even when he didn’t fully understand them or felt comfortable with the task. It’s about faith: It shows a deep trust in God and his plan. He wasn't just agreeing; he believed it was important. Why is this verse important? This moment sets the stage for a whole series of events in the book of Samuel. It highlights that God’s chosen people are willing to answer his calls, even when they might be nervous or unsure. It's a foundational statement about how God works and how we should respond to him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the story of Samuel and this passage?