Speak, My Lord

“Speak, My Lord” by George Bennard is a deeply personal and prayerful hymn that expresses the believer’s desire to hear and obey the voice of God. Written around 1910, this hymn reflects Bennard’s lifelong devotion to the message of the cross and his yearning for a heart that listens attentively to divine calling. Bennard, best known for composing “The Old Rugged Cross,” brings the same sincerity and depth of faith to this song, which centers on the intimate relationship between God and His servant.

The hymn draws its inspiration from the story of young Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:10, when the Lord called to him during the night and he humbly responded, “Speak, for thy servant heareth.” Through this simple yet profound biblical moment, Bennard captures the essence of Christian surrender: a willingness to hear God’s command and to act upon it without hesitation. The song becomes both a prayer and a declaration of readiness for divine service.

In its verses, the singer acknowledges the Lord’s voice calling across the noise of life. The response, “Speak, my Lord, speak, my Lord, speak, and I’ll be quick to answer Thee,” expresses a faith that is active, immediate, and obedient. Bennard’s words emphasize not only the act of hearing but also the commitment to follow God’s leading, whether in quiet acts of devotion or in greater calls to service and ministry.

Musically, “Speak, My Lord” carries a gentle yet earnest tone, suitable for moments of invitation, prayer, or personal consecration. It has often been sung in revival services where individuals were encouraged to respond to God’s calling, whether for salvation, sanctification, or missionary work. The melody invites reflection and humility, making it a treasured hymn for those seeking a deeper walk with the Lord.

Spiritually, the hymn reminds believers that God still speaks to His people. It encourages a heart that listens more than it speaks, a spirit that is yielded, and a life that is ready to be shaped by the divine will. The recurring plea for God to speak is not one of uncertainty but of faith, knowing that His voice brings clarity, peace, and purpose.

“Speak, My Lord” continues to resonate because it reflects the universal Christian experience of seeking God’s guidance in a noisy and distracted world. George Bennard captures that sacred longing for divine direction and turns it into a song of quiet surrender and holy readiness. The message is timeless: when God calls, the only fitting response of a willing heart is to say, “Speak, for Thy servant heareth.”