Exercise patient endurance in the face of suffering (Heb 10:36–39). #EndureToTheEnd #ExpectantFaith #PatientlyWaitOnChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Do not give up in the face of suffering and persecution. Any and all suffering will be rewarded. Patience – that is what is needed. Christ’s return is eminent. Faith in Christ, his work at the cross and his promise to return, is life and breath to the believer. We live (made alive) by faith. Those who turn away from the truth have no such hope.
At times Christ’s promised return seems close. At other times it may seem far off. Habakkuk 2:3,4 (rendered here) bids us stand firm. The appointed time will come and not delay one second past that time. So continue in God‘s will and add confidence to your faith. This is who we are as his righteous ones. Lord, may I show myself faithful by my patient endurance and expectant faith.
Stand faithful to Christ no matter the cost (Heb 10:32-35). #StandingForChrist #ThePersecutedChurch
Persecution: I could not publish pictures of actual persecution; ridicule is a beginning
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
We who live in the western world know little of persecution. Many in the early church were put to death in public coliseums, lost all their worldly possessions and were put in jail/prisons. [There are those today who suffer such indignity] The writer of Hebrews calls these early Christians to remember the days of their persecution and stay engaged in their faith. There is a far greater reward awaiting those who persevere (Heb 12:1-3).
The church has always fared much worse under prosperity than under persecution. Due to changes in our culture today, the American and free world church is coming under increasing attack. Will she stand? The question for us is, will we stand with brothers and sisters in Christ against the growing tide of persecution? Lord, may I have the courage to stand up to any persecution.
Be an encouragement to others, inside/outside the faith (Heb 10:23–25). #BeAnEncourager #DeclareYourFaith #ComeTogetherInChrist
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND NATION:
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Holding fast to our profession of faith is a declaration of the superiority of Christ in our lives. It announces our surrender to Christ who is our Savior. Then we seek to show love, grace and encouragement to brothers and sisters in Christ. We look for ways to join together, giving each other support, comfort and exhortation.
Heaven knows, in these last days we need each other more than ever. Now is not a time to hang back. It is a time to be checked in and there for one another. God has given this old sentry some of the greatest encouragers (friends & family) on the face of the planet (you know who you are). I am deeply grateful for their ministry to my family. Lord, may I be as much to them and to others.
Be assured your redemption is secure; Satan is defeated (Heb 10:12-14). #SatanIsDefeated #ChristIsVictorious #BelieversVictorious
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The one (and final) sacrifice for the cleansing of all sin, “perfects“ the believer’s position before God forever. The work of Christ at the cross is finished and for the believer, has the continuing result of cleansing from all sin, to this day and beyond.
All the enemies of Christ will one day become his footstool. The supreme enemy, Satan, will one day be forever vanquished and no longer rule on earth. Christ will stomp the Devil’s head and he will be forever defeated (Gen 3:14,15). This gives every believer the assurance of victory in their own lives (Rom 16:20). Lord, I look to Christ’s victory as my victory.
Abide secure in the finished work of Christ (Heb 10:11,12). #ItIsFinished#FinishedWorkOfChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The contrast between Christ, our High Priest, and all other priests before him could not be more stark. For centuries the priest of the temple “STOOD“ before God making sacrifices that pictured but never were able to take away man’s sin. When Christ came he gave substance to what was abstruse.
Christ made a single sacrifice (himself for all sin). Then he, “SAT DOWN.“ His work was complete, finished (Jhn 19:30). He “SAT DOWN.” The final work of Redemption was achieved. It is this redeeming message that we preach and give witness to today. Lord, may I remain resting, abiding, in the finished work of Christ at the cross.
In love…obey and serve God (Heb 10:5–10). #ObeyAndServe #ActaNonVerba #DeedsNotWords
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Our lives in Christ boil down to two things – obedience and sacrifice (service). Jesus Christ is given as our supreme example. More than empty ritual in the first covenant, Jesus exemplified heartfelt obedience and total surrender of his life (literally) in service to God and all humanity.
Having done this perfectly he ratified the second covenant; there was no need to sacrifice again. In Christ we have been sanctified (set apart) and filled to do as Christ did willingly: obey with our hearts, serve with our lives. Acta Non Verba. Lord, it is the joy of this old sentry’s heart to obey and serve you.
Oh Lord, how feeble is my nature; how apt I am to stumble in my way. At a time when my heart is full of joy and expectation the enemy attacks.
I am caught off guard. I am shocked and ashamed that I missed the signs of a “fifth column” advancing. My intended work of faith is subverted before yet it is begun.
Oh Lord, how can I keep my heart from retreating into mournful discouragement?* How can I recover from the damaging blow delivered?
My only hope of triumph in the battle that has swarmed around me is the knowledge of Your unchanging, undisturbed, love, grace and forgiveness.
Oh Lord, You will comfort the hearts of those in the siege. You will heal the wounds thought fatal. You will arise to give life and joy again.
There is none like the Lord Jehovah. There is no strength greater than Yours. You set aright the caldrons of war and stand with your mighty warriors.
_________________
*Psychologists use the term “self talk” to describe the ongoing internal conversation with ourselves, which influences how we feel and behave.
The book of Psalms is a diary of “self talk.” But it goes far beyond psychosomatics. It reveals David’s (and some others) innermost source of strength. He depends not upon himself but upon God.
Having had a particularly disappointing moment recently my melancholy nature threatened to overtake me. I turned to God and was reminding myself (like David in Psalm 103) of His great healing and power.
What came out was my true inner dependence upon Him. I CAN bring all my hurt and unrest to God alone.
May your heart and love for Christ grow exponentially for his sacrifice for sin (Heb 9:13,14,24–28). #ChristTheLambSacrificedForMan #TheBloodOfChristSaves
The Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The difference between an animal sacrifice for sin and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ is twofold. The sacrifice of animals was temporary; daily, weekly and annually multiple sacrifices were made. Second, the animals had no choice in the sacrifice. They did not know it was coming nor why.
But Jesus chose to die. He shed his blood for the cleansing and forgiveness of sin. His life was not taken. He gave it up willingly. This was the final and perfect sacrifice. No more sacrifices need be made. Christ’s death on Calvary removes all sin once and for all (1Pe 1:18-21). It does not overlook our sin. It acknowledges it as a dark blot before God and receives for all, sin’s judgment – DEATH.
Lord, may my love for you grow exponentially every day for suffering my judgment for sin.
Understanding Covenants: there are five major covenants in the Bible initiated by and kept by God. Three required nothing in exchange for God’s promises (Noahic Cov – Gen 9:8-11; Abrahamic Cov – Gen 12:1–3; Davidic Cov – 2Sa 7:11–17). A fourth covenant (known as the Mosaic Covenant or “Old Covenant;” transmitted through the Old Testament) is heavily conditioned by and dependent upon faithful obedience (Exo 19:3-8). The last covenant is an expanded version of the Mosaic Covenant (it’s called the “New” Covenant (Jer 31:31–34).
The Mosaic Covenant lists conditions (Ten Commandments) to be followed and if not would become sin against God. The “New Covenant” (transmitted through the New Testament) fulfills the legal requirement of death for sin (“The wages of sin is death” – Rom 6:23) Jesus is the one who died, paid our penalty, to forgive all our sin. Lord I stand my sentry post knowing your reliability as a covenant keeping, promise keeping, God.
Live like the heir in Christ to God’s Kingdom that you are (Heb 9:16,17). #HeirToTheKingdom #EternallySecureInChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
What is the nature of the New Covenant? The writer here defines what “Covenant“ means for us. It is NOT a contract or negotiated agreement between two parties. It’s meaning here is like that of a “WILL” (NLT). It is based on what one person (the TESTATOR), wishes to happen upon his/her death.
God in Christ is the TESTATOR here. He bequeaths to us, upon the death of his son, forgiveness and eternal life. The beneficiaries, heirs if you will, of this New Covenant (WILL) simply receive their inheritance. This is the meaning of the New Covenant. Lord, I want to live like an expectant heir.
Live in the victory of sin eternally forgiven through Christ (Heb 9:11–15). #ChristIsOurVictory #VictoryOverSinAndDeath #VictoryInJesus
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
“But Christ“…“So now Christ,“ have a ring of victory. Those words signal a change. The “rituals” of the Old Covenant are replaced with a “relationship” of righteousness with Christ. The death of Jesus on the cross was the final sacrifice for sin. His blood was spilled at Calvary. Our sin has been judged and atoned for.
Those who receive God‘s forgiveness may now enter freely into worship of the living God and receive the eternal inheritance promised them. Jesus opened the way forever into God‘s holy presence. Lord, I am made right with God by the blood spilled for me at Calvary; my victory is final in Jesus.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#7 Ark of Covenant & Mercy Seat (Prt 2)
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Open your heart, rely fully on God for the cleansing of sin. (Heb 9:4–11).
On top of the Ark of the Covenant was a lid called the Mercy Seat. It was made of solid gold. Two golden cherubim were attached to each end, facing each other with their wings stretched out to touch one another. This was the most sacred object in the tabernacle. This lid lay between the Law of God (stone tablets in the Ark) and God himself (Exo 25:10-22).
God met with Moses (later with the high priest) and spoke from the midst of the two cherubim. Annually (Day of Atonement) the high priest would sprinkle blood on the Mercy Seat from the sacrifices made for sin. It symbolized the sins of man as absolved. Just so, the blood of Jesus has cleansed us from all sin (Rom 3:25; 1Jhn 2:2).
Lord, thank you for cleansing away all my sin. “Your mercy endures forever” (Psalm 136).
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#6 THE VEIL (Prt 2)
Veil Before the Holy of Holies
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Understand the cost of our redemption (Heb 9:3). #JesusDiedForOurSin #JesusIsTheDoorToLife
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The curtain (veil) between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (the Holy Holies) blocked access to God to all but the high priest. For the high priest access was limited to once a year, on the Day of Atonement. When Christ died on the cross this curtain was rent (torn) in two, representing the body of Christ, torn and crucified (Heb 10:19–22; Mat 27:51).
The wall of separation between God and man was torn down. Access through Christ, our High Priest, to a holy God was opened (6:18–20). We may now ourselves come confidently into God‘s presence at any time (4:16). Lord, I am grateful for the price you paid for my access to God; your torn and crucified body.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament no Jo system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#4 TABLE OF SHEWBREAD (Prt 2)
This Tabernacle furnishing may be the most intimate picture of God’s relationship to and concern with man, next to the Mercy Seat.
Table of Showbread & Bread of Presence
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Feed daily on the Bread of Life – Jesus (Heb 9:1,2). #JesusIsTheBreadOfLife
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The Table of Shewbread (in the Holy Place) was constructed of acacia wood and overlaid in gold (Exo 25:23–30; 40:22,23). The humanity of Jesus is pictured here buy the wood; His divinity pictured by the gold. Jesus is the god-man,. The bread, symbolizes God‘s presence and provision in my life. It reflects my life in Christ. I am sustained eternally by the life of Christ in me.
Jesus said, “I am the bread of life…I am the living bread come down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever” (Jhn 6:47-51). Just as the priests were invited to eat the Shewbread, so also I am invited to eat of the Bread of Heaven. Lord, I have tasted this bread of life and have entered into the sanctuaries of heaven in Christ.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#4 TABLE OF SHEWBREAD (Prt 1)
This Tabernacle furnishing may be the most intimate picture of God’s relationship to and concern with man, next to the Mercy Seat.
Table of Showbread & Bread of Presence
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Come to God’s table of fellowship; eat of the Bread of Heaven (Heb 9:1,2). #KnowGodsPresence #KnowGodsProvision
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The “Table of Shewbread“ stood in the Holy Place, opposite the Lampstand. Exodus 25:30 calls the showbread the “Bread of Presence” [the literal meaning is “face bread”]. The loaves’ shape (high sides, hollowed out in the middle) appeared to have many sides (or faces). It was a symbol of God’s presence.
Twelve loaves were prepared every week (never ending supply). The bread lay upon the table in two piles of six loaves in each. Taken together they symbolize the food that comes from God; his never ending provision for the twelve tribes of Israel as they journeyed in the wilderness. The priests ate of the bread in never ending supply. It further represents spiritual food derived from God’s Word.
Father, I recognize the intimacy of my relationship with you, symbolically, as I come to your table to eat. I receive a never ending supply of spiritual food from you in your Word.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#3 THE GOLDEN LAMPSTAND
The Menorah
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
May your light burn continuously hot and bright for Christ (Heb 9:1,2). #TheHolySpiritEnlightens #TheHolySpiritFills #JesusIsTheLight
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
In the Holy Place (behind the first veil) of the Jewish tabernacle is a lampstand or candlestick (Exo 25:31–40). It is made of gold symbolizing divinity. This candlestick (also called a menorah) has six branches extending from the middle (7th) branch, symbolizing the perfection of God’s work.
Each of the seven branches has a cup fixed to the top filled with oil and burns continuously (Exo 30:7,8). Each branch is engraved with fruits and flowers. The oil, fire, fruits and flowers symbolize the work of the Holy Spirit. This candlestick gives light to the entire room. In the same way Jesus is the light to the entire world (Jhn 8:12; 9:5).
Lord, may this old sentry be filled with the oil of your Spirit; may I burn hot and bright for Jesus.
May we be deeply moved by the person of Christ (Heb 8:1-6).#ANewAndBetterWay
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The Old Covenant was implicit – it implied a once for all sacrifice to come, an eternal and perfect priesthood to come, unlimited access to God to come, and eternal forgiveness to come. In Christ came the New Covenant – his sacrifice for sin, his priestly ministry as perpetual and eternal, his forgiveness and cleansing from sin.
Jesus Christ made explicit what the old system of ceremonial laws, sacrifices and priestly service only foreshadowed implicitly. Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant, replacing it with a New and better Covenant. Lord, this old sentry is renewed and left deeply affected with awe and reverence for what Christ has accomplished.
May you be fully persuaded that Christ is your Redeemer-King (Heb 7:1-3). #FullyPersuaded #SalvationIsInChristJesus
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
What does this king, Melchizedek, in the Old Testament prove to these doubting Jewish believers? Several things: He was a king. He was a priest outside the line of Aaron or Abraham. His name, Melchizedek, means “righteousness.” He ruled in Salem (ancient city of Jerusalem). The name means “peace“). He was a king of righteousness who ruled in peace. This is a type of Christ.
Melchizedek blessed Abraham and Abraham paid a tithe to him, showing him greater than Abraham. He is said to remain a priest forever (no ancestry is recorded – no beginning or end). The Genesis account, written by the great prophet Moses, attributed to him the office of priest of the Most High God (Gen 14: 17–20). He foreshadows the coming Christ (Psm 110:1-4). Even Paul, the consummate Jewish believer, was fully persuaded of Christ’s authenticity (2Ti 1:12-14).
Lord, from these accounts I (anyone) may be fully assured, according to God‘s word, that Jesus Christ is who he claimed to be. I am fully persuaded!
Hope in Jesus who anchors your soul in the bedrock promises of God (Heb 6:19,20). #JesusIsTheAnchorOfMySoul #MyAnchorHolds
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jesus is the anchor of my soul. The anchor may be one of the most iconic symbols of early Christianity (next to the cross). My soul is the ship sailing on the seas of life. Jesus anchors my soul to the bedrock of God’s promises. My hope, my faith, is the chain that secures my soul to the Anchor.
Our Anchor Holds Within The Veil
The anchor, cast into the sea is unseen beneath the water. Jesus, my Anchor, has been cast upwards behind the veil into the Holy of Holies (Heb 1:3; 4:14). There he secures for me the promises of God.* I am there, hid with Christ in God (Col 3:1-4) and forever inextricably secured by him. Jesus is my Anchor, man.
Lord, my hope is built on nothing less then Christ who is my eternal anchor.*
_______
* Hymn: My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less [than Jesus] (especially verses two and three)
V2 When darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on his unchanging grace; in every high and stormy gale,my anchor holds within the veil.
V3 His oath, his covenant, his blood, support me in the whelming flood; when all around my soul gives way, he then is all my hope and stay.
Embrace Christ as your trusted redeemer (Heb 6:19,20). #TrustedRedeemer #AnchorOfTheSoul #JesusIsOurTrustedAnchor #JesusIsOurRefuge
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Three beautiful images of Christ close this section of Hebrews. Jesus is the REFUGE to whom we have fled for protection. With confidence we hold to him in the hope of things to come.
Jesus is an ANCHOR to our soul. He has been cast on the mercy seat of God behind the veil, in the Holy of Holies. There he holds fast to the promises of God on our behalf – we are inseparably tethered to him in those promises.
Jesus is a FORERUNNER, our advance guard. He has gone before us clearing the way for our entrance into the promised Hope of God. Lord, there could be no more clear descriptions of my inextricably secure place in Christ.
1) There is evidence that God keeps his promises (vv13–15);
2) It is impossible for God to lie. His nature is truth (like water is wet).
Two things are certain and unchanging: God’s promises and the veracity of his pledge to keep his promises.
Our hope is in Jesus who is anchored to the these bedrock truths. We may have perfect confidence in this anchor of our soul’s security. Lord, my hope in Christ is secure in the truth, the veracity, of God‘s word.
May you endure by faith and patience to receive the promises of God (Heb 6:13-15). #StandFast #BelieveForThePromise #NoFoolin
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
When God swears an oath by his name I may certainly count on it to happen. Those Hebrew Christians reading this transcript were moving towards the future return of Christ. But they were struggling to endure, to remain alert (vv11,12).
God assured these believers that he keeps his promises. An example from history makes the point. Abraham, by faith, patience and endurance received God’s promise of a son [and many descendants] (Gen 22:16-18; Rom 4:18ff). Though God tarries, I may stand fast assured of receiving his promise – the blessing of Christ’s return (10:35,36).
Be intentionally grounded in faith and ministry; secure hope in Christ (Heb 6:12,13). #BeGroundedInFaith #KnowTheWordOfGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Note the warnings and encouragements given to some floundering Hebrew Christians in Hebrews 5:11–6:10 [Be Intentionally Grounded in faith – grow up, mature in faith, strive to understand Scripture, pursue God‘s purpose, stay alert to error and disbelief, walk steadfast in God’s mission, encourage others in faith and engage in ministry to others]. These things will prevent spiritual dullness and indifference.
This kind of intentional faith and endurance is in the tradition of the many faithful ones who have gone before these and all other believers. They all received the promises of God. Lord, my great hope in Christ is realized in direct proportion to my growth and maturity in faith and engagement with ministry (v11).
Strive to express a pastoral-shepherd’s heart toward others (Heb 6:9). #ShepherdsHeart #PastoralHeart
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Like the loving caring father who gives his child stern correction regarding disobedience and the consequences of that, he then speaks words of kindness and encouragement. Just so, after the solemn warnings of Hebrews 5:11–6:8, the writer puts his loving arms around these believers and his last words are words of confidence and encouragement.
“Oh, precious and beloved friends, we are so confident in you. You are and will continue to do, more and more great things in ministry. Your hearts are dialed into God and those works brought about by salvation. We so believe in you.” Lord, may I approach all discipline and exhortation with a pastoral-shepherding heart.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Prayer Sentry 