Seek to learn and grow in spiritual maturity (Heb 6:1-3). #GodsStudyHall #StudyToShowYourselfApproved #GrowInChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
This passage is clear. It is imperative that followers of Christ continue to build on first principles. Maturity as a follower depends upon it. Maturity here has to do with the fulfillment of purpose, to complete the assignment with competence and confidence; to bring glory to God.
“God willing,“ reveals a yielded heart that is ready to move forward in faith. It’s time to check in to God‘s Study Hall. Seek understanding from Scripture, obey and go on to fulfill God‘s purpose for your life. Father, this aging sentry desires to continue on and pursue your purpose in my life.
Choose to set your heart upon Christ who gave his all for us (Heb 5:8-10). #VictoryInObedience #ChooseLifeChoseJesus
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Oh dear soul of mine (Psm 43:5), this precious Savior of mine, this Jesus, left his home in glory (Phi 2:5–8). He CHOSE to limit himself by becoming a man, to be touched by the frailties of humanity. He learned obedience as a man (grew in wisdom and stature as a man – Luk 2:52). Jesus CHOSE to do that, for me. Because of his obedience, God gave him a great victory through sorrow and death to resurrection.
I don’t have a choice about grief or suffering in my life. BUT, I can choose how I will face the defeats, the hurts, and the disappointments of life. I reject bitterness and I choose life abundant. Like Christ, I too can know the blessing and victory of God through my obedience. Lord, like Job, who said, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust him“ (Job 13:15), I choose you.
Rejoice in a living Savior who died for your sin and arose assuring your eternal life in Him (Heb 5:7). #GodsPerfectSacraficeForSin #DeadToSinAliveToChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
This morning I read the absolute most remarkable thing about Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane, the night before his crucifixion (Mat 26:36-44). Some say God did not answer Christ’s prayer to deliver him from death. Though grief stricken over the burden of man’s sin, it’s not likely Jesus would pray such a prayer. He was obediently prepared to do the Father’s will and die.
The truth turns on the Greek word “êk“ used in this passage. God the Father heard Christ’s prayer and delivered him [through or out from] death. Christ was rescued out from (êk) the grip of death by his resurrection. So God will also do for every believer. “Oh death where is your victory? Thanks be to God, he gives victory over sin and death through Christ Jesus” (1Cor 15:55-57).
Here I learn that Christ is a high priest who is acquainted with all my grief and sorrow. I also learn that Christ was the complete fulfillment of forgiveness for my sin. He died for me. Further, His resurrection is the reason I can rejoice in my deliverance from death.
Continue to read, grow and apply God‘s Word to your life (Heb 6:1– 3). #AppliedLearning #ReadStudyApplyGodsWord
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
I once heard a pastor say, to the effect, believers who are floundering ought to sit and read large portions of Scripture at a time. Doing this for a short period would re-introduced them to the language and content of Scripture. The writer of Hebrews seems to be taking that approach with these believers. They have learned but not been building upon their basic instruction.
Our writer says, rather than re-teach the basics, God willing, he would go on with further instruction. The point is that believers must continue to build on their faith and grow, applying the Scriptures. Lord I look forward with anticipation to coming daily before you with an open Bible, an open mind and an open heart.
May you continue growing up into maturity in Christ (Heb 5:11–14; 6:1-3). #GrowingUpInChrist #MaturingInChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Reading this passage makes me think the writer of Hebrews becomes newly aroused at the lack of growth, maturity and understanding of his readers. He asks, “How long have you been believers? Are you still so immature in your understanding? You should be teaching others the truths I’m teaching you.”
He goes on, “You have grown up with the Hebrew scriptures. You have experienced the abundant life in Christ pictured in the Jewish sacrificial system.” He challenges them to move past pablum, the basics of faith and on to solid food, maturity in faith.
Lord, having walked almost 70 years in faith, I still desire to keep growing, learning more and maturing in my faith.
Rest securely in Jesus, our sinless representative/advocate with God (Heb 5:1-10). #JesusSinlessAdvocate #JesusSinlessPriest #JesusSinlessMediator
High Priest: Represent Men to God; God to Men
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jesus, unlike the high priests of his day – chosen by Roman authorities, qualifies as our High Priest. 1) He was called and chosen of God. Like Aaron in the Old Testament, Jesus was chosen, called by God to be our High Priest (note these references: Heb 1:5; Psm 110:4; Jhn 1:29-34).
2) It is further essential that the High Priest be able to deal compassionately with broken humanity. He must be subject to the life, challenges and sufferings of men, yet without sin.
3) Finally, he would be a man motivated and compelledby God to serve others, pray earnestly for others and sacrifice his life for others.
Jesus qualifies as the sinless High Priest of our faith. Lord, I may rest securely in you as the fulfillment of the role of High Priest, eternally advocating for me.
See also on this blog The Greatest Hope (link here).
Come confidently into God’s presence to receive his mercy & grace (Heb 4:16). #FindingFavorWithGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The word of God exposes me for who I am (vv12,13). I am left without any excuses and guilty before an eternal judge, Jesus Christ. But this judge has already paid the penalty for my sin and guilt (vv14,15). He is my judge and my pardon.
Then, this judge does the unthinkable. He invites me into his chambers. He says, “You may come into my chambers anytime for help. You will always be welcome.” I may confidently come before God‘s throne of grace, beleaguered as I may be, and find grace and mercy in my time of greatest need. He understands who I am and what exactly is my need.
When this sentry loses his way, confounded by his own circumstances, God’s mercy and grace will be given to him in just the right measure, at just the right time.
__________
Read Heb 4:16 again (Amp Version). Pause and reflect between each phrase.
“Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor]
– PAUSE –
with confidence and without fear,
– PAUSE –
so that we may receive mercy [for our failures]
– PAUSE –
and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].”
-PAUSE-
Consider this blog post, Jesus: Savior-Brother. Link below.
2) The Living Word, Jesus, is the one to whom every man will give an account (4:13).
3) Jesus also understands man’s every weakness and frailty – he himself has lived as a man and faced every life challenge just as we have, but without sin (4:14,15).
4) Jesus extends mercy and grace to all men that they might know redemption (4:16).
Some have believed God knows our needs but does not care. Others have believed God neither knows nor cares. Neither is true. Jesus is God in the flesh. He lived and walked among us. He has made God’s incomprehensible love believable. As such, he has pierced the veil between God and man so that man might know that God is for us. (Psm 56:9; 118:6; Rom 8:31).
Lord, This old sentry is overwhelmed by your incomprehensible love and grace.
Hold fast to Jesus alone as the cornerstone of your faith (Heb 4:14–16). #JesusOurHighPriest #ReasonToBelieve #HoldFast
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Having established that Christ is superior to angels (1:1–2:18); having established that Christ is superior to Moses and the prophets (3:1–4:13); the author of Hebrews moves on to his final argument. Christ is superior to the Old Testament priesthood.
This discussion points back to the authors opening argument (1:1-3). The eminence of Christ goes before preoccupation with angels and makes his word definitive and beyond all other prophetic revelations. Jesus is God’s son and worthy to be called the high priest of our faith. Lord, you give final credence to the sentry’s faith, to all that I believe. I will hold fast to Christ.
Understand your accountability before God (Heb 4:13). #NotMyFaultNoExcuse #AccountableToGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
What is made clear to man in the Word of God (that which both comforts and convicts from the pages of Scripture – Heb 4:12), is also manifest in him to whom all men are accountable (that is, Jesus Christ who is both Savior and Judge). Nothing in our lives is hidden from him. Before Christ every man’s shame, guilt and sin is and will be exposed.
The only saving grace for me is my response of Faith to the Good News of Salvation. Did I neglect or reject God‘s message of Salvation? Here’s the question. “How shall we escape [judgment] if we neglect so great a salvation” (Heb 2:3).
Lord, I understand there is no hiding my sin and corruption from you. “Not my fault,” is no excuse. Only my faith, repentance and confession of sin is what gives me full access to Salvation and Kingdom life.
Take time to read and meditate on God’s Word (Heb 4:12). #GodsWordSpeaksToAll #GodsVoiceIsClearToAll
God’s Word Speaks With Pinpoint Accuracy
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
God‘s word is sharper than a double edged sword. This may also be translated as “scalpel,” as used by a surgeon. The word “incisive“ comes to mind.
God‘s Word does not work like a hatchet in the hands of a woodsman, hacking indiscriminately at a person’s inner life – condemning and deprecating. NO! God‘s word is precise and specific. It speaks with skill and pinpoint accuracy to each person’s need. Two people can read the same verse and hear something different from God (Note 2Tim 3:16).
Lord, your word speaks to my heart EVERY TIME I open it to read, study or meditate.
May we be open to the searching examination of God’s Word in our lives (Heb 4:12). #GodsWordIsASword #GodsWordIsAliveAndPowerful
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
There is nowhere found in Scripture a more majestic or definitive description or characterization of the Word of God than Hebrews 4:12. Here is what it says…
God‘s word is alive, pulsating with life.
It is powerful, energizing the very being in the life of men.
It cuts through every façade and pierces through every defense of self-righteousness.
It sifts through and exposes every thought and intention of man.
God’s word is like a mirror (Jas 1:22-24). It reveals who we really are at the core of our being.
Lord, thank you for how your Word spoke to this aged sentry on Dec 28, 1968 -Powerful- Changed my life. Your Word is the Book of all books. It changed my life.
May we have a fresh vision of the exalted role of your Word in the heart of America.
May we have a clear understanding of the role of God’s Word in our national life and leadership.
May you believe for the “rest of God;” the assurance of acceptance with him (Heb 4:6-11). #TheRestOfGod #EndWorksZone
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Are you confused about how you may enter into the “rest of God” defined by some ancients going forward into a veritable land of promise? It is a comparison that reveals the consequence of disbelief and not entering into that promised “rest“ – Caution: Wilderness Journey Ahead.
There is another “rest“ for another time. That time is now. Today. The psalmist pointed to a coming “rest“ (Psm 95:7,8). It is the “rest“ of salvation. Believing is still the criteria for this “rest” today. My works will not save or sustain me. Only my resting and abiding in the grace of God. I simply trust fully in God (Eph 2:8,9) – End of Works Zone.
Lord, I am relieved of the uncertainty of trusting my own works for salvation.
May our hearts always be set on God’s gracious rest (Heb 4:1–5). #KnowRest #RestInGod #Believe
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer in this passage says it again…in case you didn’t get it the first couple of times: God’s rest is still available. Even though some will never experience it. This same rest announced to the ancient Hebrews is available to us today. “GOOD NEWS!“ But only those who believe will share in the rest of God.
BTW, this rest has stood since the beginning of time. God has always provided a rest of faith to those who believe. But be reminded again what scripture says. In essence: No faith in God, no rest in God. The risk is not in believing, but in not believing. Lord, may my heart always be set on belief and the rest of God.
Lord, may our children have godly, righteous leaders worthy of following (Heb 3:7–11; Psm 95:10,11). #ActionsHaveConsequences #LegacyMatters #GenerationLost
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
I heard Henry Blackeby (author and pastor) say of Psalm 95:10,11, “An entire adult generation cost the youth of their day much suffering in the wilderness.“ These words have haunted me for days as I have meditated on this Hebrews 3:7–11 text. I am left with a equally haunting question. In what conditions are we leaving our children in America?
A disobedient adult generation were the cause of Hebrew children and their families to wander in the wilderness for forty years. Forty years of eating manna. Forty years of windy dusty traveling nonstop. When the last adult of that disobedient generation died a child born at the beginning of the wilderness journey would have been 40ish. The oldest, like Caleb & Joshua (adjusting for ancient calendars), were in their 80s (Joshua 14:10). I learn that my actions have consequences for those I lead. Lord, may I leave the NEXT GEN a godly example to follow.
_________
A brief read of modern day Great Awakenings in America reveals them occurring approximately every fifty years (1740s, 1790s, 1850s, 1900s). There is some disagreement on specific dates. But following this pattern, America should have seen an Awakening around the 1950s-60s.
But what did we see? Well, what we saw was twenty to thirty year olds in the those years who were busy burning bras and American flags. They were busy removing prayer and the Bible from schools. They have been at work ever since, developing Progressivism, a WOKE culture, restricting chaplaincy programs in the military and prison systems, removing oaths that contain the words, “So help me God.” They have been aborting babies, changing gender definitions and so much more. God forgive us.
What generation was this? This would be the generation who gave us leaders like Richard Nixon, Nelson Rockefeller, George Romney, Colin Powell, Earl Warren, Joe Biden, Harry Reid, Dianne Feinstein, Nancy Pelosi to name a few. Lord, forgive us all.
So, as with that ancient Hebrew generation, perhaps, in God’s displeasure, he has discarded this 20th, 21st Century generation. Perhaps we are in the midst of a generation that God has chosen to bypass. Perhaps there will be no revival in the immediate days ahead.
[THIS OLD SENTRY IS JUST ASKING]
___________
But our hope may be for awakening and revival in our children’s generation. Maybe in the next 10-15 years. Better yet, the soon return of Christ. I PRAY FOR BOTH!
May our hearts be delivered from evil disbelief (Heb 3:12–15). #EvilUnbelievingHeart #DoNotHardenYourHeart
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer here repeats his warning to be careful not to allow our hearts to become hardened. Believers are to warn each other of this regularly. He refers here to an “evil disbelieving” heart. This is the worst kind of evil that is here mentioned. It is not a casual unbelief. It is allowing our heart to be so intentionally contrary to God that we lead others also into disbelief.
This is what Israel did (3:16-19) and a whole generation of people died in the wilderness never having set foot in God’s land of promise for them. This is an evil hardening of the heart of the first order. Lord there was a time in my life when this oft wayward sentry stood on the brink of an “evil disbelieving heart.” I was in danger of losing my very life. But you rescued me at just the right time. I am eternally grateful.
Remain alert to sin; follow God faithfully and decisively (Heb 3:7-11; Psm 95:7–11). #RestInJesus #TheRestOfFaith
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
While the writer of Hebrews points to Psalm 95, a call to worship (vv 1–6), he only quotes the warning from vv 7–11. Why? Because these Hebrew Christians were in danger of falling behind in their REST OF FAITH. Believers today face the same danger.
My REST OF FAITH (the assurance of the believer) is compromised by sin’s encroachment into my life. I may be compromised further, by my dissatisfactions with God‘s plan for me and my halfhearted, inconsistent, submission to God. But my full devotion to God will acquire the REST OF FAITH, otherwise lost by my disobedience.
Lord, keep every sentry always alert to sin, faithful and obedient to your plan.
Come often, come humbly, to worship God (Heb 3:7–11; Psm 95:1–7). #WorshipTheLordOurGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
To emphasize the importance of paying careful attention to Christ (who is God’s final revelation – Heb 1: 1-3), the writer points these Jewish Christians to Psalm 95. They would have been very familiar with this Psalm. Interestingly, Psalm 95 is a call to worship.
Psalm 95:1–7 implores these Old Testament Jews to come to God singing and rejoicing. Come with thanksgiving and praise. Why? Because God is a mighty and powerful warrior on their behalf (conversely on our behalf). He is the one who watches over us. Worship him, bow down before him.
Lord, you reign supreme over all of life. I worship you.
Be open and eager to listen to and follow after God. (Heb 3:7,8). #BeOpenToGod #ListenToGod #AllEars
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
God is always speaking. There is never a time when we tune in to God‘s word that he is not speaking. His word is “living and active“ (Heb 4:12). Every time I refuse to listen to God, my heart grows colder and harder towards him.
To be in the best position to hear God and respond in faith, do this: 1) read-meditate on his word regularly, 2) share your faith regularly, 3) be in vital relationships with God’s people, 4) be alert to the deceitfulness of sin and 5) pray – talk often with God. Lord, I am listening to you with all my heart; I’m all ears, ready to do what you direct me to do.
Exalt Jesus as Lord, superior to every other Prophet or Priest (Heb 3:1-6). #JesusIsGreater
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
As believers, brothers and sisters with and in Christ, we are partners (equal together) in the call of God heavenward. It is Jesus to whom we must pay attention and exalt. He was/is God’s voice among us and the bridge between God and man. He is the fulfillment of every prophetic message and every priestly duty and responsibility.
Jesus was faithful to God, just as Moses was. But Jesus deserves far more credit and honor because he was over the house God was building. He was/is the end goal of salvation. What Moses built on earth merely pointed to what God was and is building in heaven. Jesus is over this heavenly house (God’s kingdom). In him we put our confidence and hope.
Lord, this prayer sentry is summoned to be faithful to the call of ministry, faithful to one another and faithful to the call of Christ Jesus in my devotion to him.
Be assured of God’s love and hope in Christ (Heb 2:14–18). #TheGreatestHope #JesusTheHopeOfTheAges
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Here the author fires his final and defeating salvo of truth into the bow of the enemy. Jesus the Christ became incarnate. He became a human being. He lived a sinless life and became not only the perfect sacrifice for sin, he was also our high priest presenting atonement for man’s sin.
Not only was he human but Christ also suffered as a man for us. His death and resurrection from the dead defeats death and the fear of death, Satan‘s stranglehold on human life. Christ did not die to redeem angels. He died to redeem the seed of Abraham, the children of God. Lord, it gives this aged sentry great hope to know that I am known and loved by you in Christ Jesus.
Be mindful of the extreme sacrifice Jesus made for you (Heb 2:10–13). #JesusSaviorBrother
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer here begins closing arguments for Christ as superior to angels. By God’s grace (v9) Jesus “tasted death“ for all men. This was intended that he might bring many into his glory. No angel died for the souls of men to be set free. But it was Jesus. He then is our great and superior leader.
Those who believe in Jesus are made holy. They, by their belief, can declare God as their father. Jesus, who bought their freedom and brought them to God, now proclaims them as his brothers and sisters. They have trusted in God by Christ. Lord, thank you for Jesus who took upon himself all my sin. In doing so this old sentry is made a child of God.
Seek to be all that God intended you to be (Heb 2:5–10). #LivingInDominion #IAmWhatGodSays
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
A respected Christian leader and pastor has said, “Hebrews 2:5–10 is one of the most exciting and thrilling passages of scripture to be found anywhere.“ Psalm eight is quoted here. God created man and gave him dominion over the Earth (Gen 1:26). He was crowned with glory and honor from God.
Angels, though higher in the order of creation, were not given authority over God‘s creation. That was reserved for man. You have to wonder, “What was Adam thinking when he rebelled against God?“ He had all he could possibly want, with power and authority over all things. Lord, I desire to be all that you intended me to be. No more…and no less.
Give praise for God’s grace given to man for his salvation (Heb 2:5-10). #DestinedToRule #SatanLoses
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
In this passage I am looking “behind the curtain.“ In my mind‘s eye I am seeing one certain angelic being brooding over the fact that God created man a little lower than the angels, but then put him in charge of the world. Did Lucifer, right then and there, decide he would destroy man, leaving him and his angelic followers in charge?
Pride entered into Lucifer’s heart. He was expelled from Heaven (Ezk 28:2; Isa 14:12–14; Rev 12:7-9). He tempted Adam and Adam chose to follow Satan. But Satan could not succeed at his plan. Jesus becoming man robbed Satan of the opportunity. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given” (Isa 9:6). In the end, Satan and his followers, will be destroyed forever (Rev 20:10). Lord, you have clearly been looking out for me since the beginning of time.
Give full assent to the gospel message of Christ (Heb 2:1–4). #ASuperiorMessage #ASuperiorSavior
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
In this passage declaring Christ as superior to angels, the writer addresses the teetering faith of these Hebrew Christians. If you believe the Law was given to Moses by angels (Deu 33:2; Acts 7:38,53; Gal 3:19) and Christ is superior to angels (Heb 1:1-13), how much more important is Christ’s message?
Jesus Christ fulfills all the Law (Mat 5:17). That was his message. Eye witnesses conveyed this truth, this salvation, to you. God confirmed this truth by many wonders, miracles and gifts of the Holy Spirit. We today stand in this tradition of faith in Christ. Lord, I put my full faith and trust in you alone for salvation.
The Prayer Sentry 