The Resurrected Life

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION.

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.

End Work(s) Zone

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION.

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.

One Immutable Truth

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Hold fast to the truth, that one “faith” entrusted to you (Jude 1:3). #OneFaith #DefendTheFaith

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jude further explains “the faith“ I am to defend. It is that faith “entrusted once for all time to God’s people.“ This “faith“ is the one eternal truth given in the gospel – that Christ lived a sinless life and became the sinless sacrifice for all men. In his death he satisfied God’s righteous anger against sin. Christ died that our sin be forgiven. He was buried and raised from the dead to secure men’s eternal life (1Co 15:1-4).

There may be different denominations, but there is only one “faith.” That is the Gospel of Jesus Christ, given “once for all time“ [its chiseled in stone]. Those who claim some “new truth” are false teachers (liars) and lead men away from the truth. Lord, my confidence rests in the sole immutable truth of the Gospel.

“This We’ll Defend”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Defend the principles of the Gospel from all attacks (Jude 1:3). #DefendTheFaith

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I am called to duty, to “defend the faith.” John MacArthur explains this “faith.“ He says, “It’s not describing a subjective act of faith; it’s referring to the content of Christianity, the Gospel, the whole body of doctrine that makes up Gods revelation.” Believers (I) have a duty to defend this “FAITH“ from any false teaching that would minimize its effect or impact.

The U.S. Army motto is, “This We’ll Defend.” What is that? It’s not subjective acts of freedom; it is the content, the whole doctrine of “LIBERTY” and what that means to America, even to the world. The soldier is called upon to defend that liberty from all aggressors.

In the same way, I am called upon to “defend the faith” and all that it means to those who have believed and will believe the Gospel.

Lord, THIS I WILL DEFEND!

Forever Assured

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be assured of God’s complete work of grace in your life (Jude 1:1,2). #Grace #Mercy #Peace #Love #GospelAssurance

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jude writes to Christians across the centuries. He writes to me. Jude, the brother of Jesus, writes to all who have believed the Gospel. His opening prayer for us (me) is that we stand firm in the Gospel call of God, our father, who secures us by his Son, by the Shepherd’s care of Jesus.

Jude prays that we would receive more mercy, peace and love. That is, the supply of mercy for our sin, peace for our anxieties and love for our conditional acceptance of others is full, abundant and never ending. Whatever our need for mercy, peace and love, it is in eternal supply. Lord, I have no fear of slipping from your grasp or falling short of the Gospel attributes of faith and action.

Eye On The Prize

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Live life fully for Christ; expect a victor’s crown (2Ti 4:8). #CrownOfRighteousness #ThePrize #Victor’sCrown

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

As Paul faces execution, his thoughts are not focused on fears and/or regrets. He is focused on the thought of having run his race well in this life and the crown, the winner’s victory wreath, awarded by the victorious King Jesus.

Indeed, every believer who loves the Lord Jesus and eagerly looks forward to his soon return, may also look forward to this crown of righteousness. Hail King Jesus, the righteous judge. Lord, I may thank you for life and thank you for death, all in the same breath. You are my reward.

Perseverance Will Triumph

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Persevere in sharing the good news of eternal life in Christ (2Ti 2:3–10). #EndureToTheEnd #StayTheCourse #Persevere https://bible.com/bible/116/2ti.2.4-6.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

We are instructed here to endure like soldiers, athletes and farmers. What do they have in common? Discipline…Stamina. They are able to stay the course under all conditions; one to the victory, one to the prize, and one to the harvest. They envision the end goal and are not distracted by anything.

So we should set our eyes on the end goal of winning Christ and telling the world about the good news of eternal life. My philosophy for years has been to pray much, plan thoroughly, work hard, stay the course and leave the results to Christ. Lord, may I continue to endure all things for the cause of sharing the good news of Christ.

Ain’t-a That Good News!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Have courage to stand for the Good News, Jesus Saves (1Ti 1:8-10). #JesusSaves #Ain’tThatGoodNews #TheWarIsOver

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Be ready to suffer for the sake of the gospel. Leading a life separated by heart and virtue from the practices of the world, the flesh and the Devil will put a target on your back. But a life in Christ was God‘s plan for all who believe.

In Christ we shall have the ultimate victory over sin, the world, the evil one and even death itself. THE WAR IS OVER! For the resurrection of Christ is the down payment of life eternal for all who believe. It was all God’s plan. Like that old Negro spiritual says, “Ain’t-a That Good News!”

Shameless

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May you stand shamelessly for the cause of Christ (2Ti 1:7–12). #Shameless #IAmNotAshamedOfTheGospel

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In Christ I have been endowed with a spirit of power, love and sound mind. “Be bold and strong, banish all fear. For the Lord thy God is with you“ (Josh 1:9). “So,“ Paul says, “never be ashamed to tell others about Christ.“ Jesus has canceled the power of death and sin. He illuminated the way to eternal life and immortality. This is the “Good News.“

I too have been called to stand boldly for Christ. I am not ashamed – I know in whom I am trusting and know that he is able to keep what I have committed to him, until the day he returns. Lord, may I stand my watch daily, shameless before a watching world, and proclaim Christ.

Fierce Faith Fighters

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be intense contenders for faith in Christ (1Ti 6:12-14). #GoHardAfterGod #GoForTheGold

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

To go hard after God is further reflected in “fighting“ [contenting earnestly – to wrestle] in the great work of faith. Sometimes our greatest enemy is within us (fatigue, disappointment or rejection). But, “Hold on tightly” to faith and eternal life to the end. It is to this faith and Kingdom life that you have been called and of which you have been made a contender, an effective witness.

The man or woman of God is here charged to obey these directives without wavering…to take action, to carry out the work of faith with every intention of winning. Train hard, discipline hard (your heart and mind) and go hard after the prize – a winning faith. Lord, this duty sentry could not be any more encouraged than by these words.

See this post also: https://theprayersentry.com/2021/12/28/the-fight-worth-winning/

…In A Nutshell

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Live life in a godly manner; faithfully proclaim the gospel of Jesus (1Ti 3:14-16). #GodsPlanInANutshell #TheGospelOfRedemption

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In this letter to Timothy, Paul outlines how the family of God, the household of faith (the Church) should conduct itself. He calls the Church the “pillar and foundation of the truth,” the gospel. That is, God became man in the flesh [Jesus] (John 1:1,2). He died to forgive the sins of men and was raised from the dead by the Spirit (Acts 2:22-24).

This Jesus was exalted before the heavenly hosts (Phi 2:9; Heb 1:6). His gospel was/is preached to the nations (Col 1:23) and believed for the forgiveness of sin and eternal life. Then Jesus ascended back into heaven in glory (Eph 4:9,10). This is God’s redemptive plan in a nutshell. Lord, may I live my life in a godly manner and faithfully proclaim the gospel of Jesus.

New Year’s Gift

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Give thanks to God for including all men in his great Redemption (1Ti 2:1,3-6). #WhosoeverWillMayCome

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

If one were the sovereign of a perfect kingdom and could choose one’s own kingdom people, who might that one choose? Would one choose only people like one’s self? One might be highly selective. But God is not like that. He includes everyone of us (even a wretch like me). He excludes no one in his call to come. In fact, he tells us to pray for “ALL“ men to understand this truth and enter into his kingdom (Romans 10:13 says, “Whosoever will may come”).

One may say, “Well, I don’t like God. He condemns my sin, says I will suffer consequences for my sin.“ Yes, but he is also our mediator and he has reconciled all humanity to him by Christ’s death on the cross. He suffered our consequences and purchased our freedom to choose him and his kingdom. All may come to him. We may exclude ourselves, but he excludes no one. This is the message, GOD’S GIFT to the world (Rom 6:23). Thank you Lord, for including me (not excluding me) in your kingdom.

Last Words

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May you clearly understand the warnings of God’s Word (Isa 66:22-24). #LastWords

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I am closing out my Morning Watch in the book of Isaiah. I am certain that I have not understood every nuance of the prophet’s utterances. I pray that by the Spirit, I have caught the essence and urgency of the message. I’m indebted to Barnes’ Notes on Isaiah for help along the way.

The last verses in this book complete and describe, in dramatic fashion, the great divide between all of humanity (the faithful and the rebellious). Isaiah foresees a future when all the world, the faithful of every nation, will regularly observe a Sabbath (4th Commandment – Exo 20:8) genuinely worshiping the redeemer God.

As the faithful are departing worship they shall see the dead bodies and smell the putrid rotting flesh of every foe that has stood against God and his people. An abhorrent vision, abhorrent close, to this book in the Bible. It should cause every soul to consider the warnings of a holy, but loving, God and turn towards him in repentance, surrender and obedience.

Lord, the details of this prophetic book have caused even this aged sentry to think far more deeply on the things God has to say to me; yea, even to the world.

A Forever Destiny

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be assured, by your surrender to Christ, of your eternal place in God’s kingdom (Isa 66:21,22). #ForeverDestiny

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

As the message of Redemption (the Gospel) is spread throughout the world, there shall come an expansion of faith beyond the confines of Judaism as will require many more “priests“ to serve Jehovah God. Just so, in the church age, those who have come to Christ are called a “royal priesthood“ in a “holy nation“ (1Pe 2:9).

This new “holy nation” shall be known by another name, “Christian“ (Acts 11:26). Isaiah says of this name, “As surely as the new heavens and earth will remain, so you will always be my people with a name that will never disappear“ (v22). Every believer may have the assurance of knowing that their place is held in God‘s eternal kingdom. So Lord, as a “priest” sentry, I stand in your eternal assurance for my forever destiny.

The Ultimate Victory

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Give us an eager anticipation of our ultimate victory over sin, sickness and death (Isa 65:17-25). #NoMoreSicknessNoMorePain #ComeLordJesus

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah begins to close his prophetic vision for the future of God’s people – those who genuinely worship him. This old world, as we know it, will no longer exist. There will be forever rejoicing in the streets of the “New Jerusalem.”

There shall be no more weeping or crying. No more death and dying. People will live in total security and total enjoyment of their harvest. No more wayward children, families will be blessed and every prayer will be answered. All of nature shall be redeemed – no more ravaging of the week by the strong. All hurt and destruction shall cease.

Lord, may this and every sentry standing watch for God, eagerly anticipate the ultimate and final victory over sin and death (2Pe 3:13; Rev 21:1,2).

The Lord, Our Victor

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Open the gates of your heart that the Lord of glory may enter in (Isa 63:1-6; Psm 24:8,9). #ConqueringVictor #ChristTheKing

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah mimics a conversation between a watchman (62:6,7) and a conquering warrior. The conquering warrior, clothes stained and crimson red, approaches. He is coming from the direction of the ancient adversary of Judah, Edom. He approaches with the air of a conquering victor…afraid of nothing and no one.

The watchman hails with some trepidation, “Who goes there? Why are your robes stained in red?“ The warrior replies, “It is I, the Lord, I have won your salvation…your liberty. It is I, the Lord, mighty to save. I have trampled my enemies. I have avenged my people, ransomed them from their oppressors.

I take from this prophecy as fulfilled (the Lord’s ultimate deliverance of Israel from Babylon) confidence to believe the prophetic word of Revelation 19:10-16. The Lord Christ will return as our conquering Redeemer. He will be the final Victor.

What’s Yo Name?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be for sure certain your name’s written in the Lamb’s book of forever life (Isa 62:2-4; Rev 2:17; 21:2). #EternalLife #NewNameWrittenDownInGlory #TheLambsBookOfLife

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In Isaiah‘s prayer, it is revealed to Israel (and to every other nation) that once she has entered into the light of God‘s righteousness, she will get a “new name.” No longer will she be known as “Forsaken“ and “Desolate.” Her new name will be “God’s Delight, God’s Bride (intimate companion“ (see also Isa 56:5).

As it was and is for Israel, so shall it be for the Church Age. The Apostle John tells us that all who come into the righteousness of Christ will receive a “New Name” (Rev 2:17). That name is written in the Lamb’s book of forever life (Rev 21:27). Lord, how awesome it is for the faithful sentry to know that his/her name, “New Name,” is written down into the records of glory.

This great old gospel hymn says it all.

P.U.S.H.

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Come faithfully to God in prayer (Isa 62:1-5). #FaithfulPrayer #PrayWithoutCeasing https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.62.5.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

O, how the prophet Isaiah prays over God‘s people. He is concerned with more than just condemning their sin. He faithfully roams the hallowed halls of heaven in petition to his God for Israel‘s righteousness and her salvation. He pleads for her commitment to God.

Not only does Isaiah see Israel‘s future and far into the church age, he prays “God‘s will on earth as it is in heaven.” God has called believers into partnership with him. He reveals his will, then we Pray Until Something Happens (P.U.S.H.). Oh Lord, I am renewed in my commitment to intercession. You hear and respond (Psm 145:18,19).

His Riches For My Rags

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Rely fully on Christ to replace your sin & shame with his righteousness (Isa 61:7) #GarmentsOfPraise #GreatExchange #RagsToRiches https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.61.7.AMP

The Great Exchange: A Garment of Righteousness For My Shame

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah 61:7 summarizes verses 3–6. It expresses a marvelous exchange of joy for shame and dishonor, a double portion of joy at that. In context the nation of Israel will be delivered from Babylonian captivity and find herself immeasurably blessed among the nations.

But the prophetic future here describes a spiritual Israel, life in the kingdom of God. The Messiah, Jesus Christ (described in vv 1,2; see Luk 4:18-22) will deliver beauty for ashes, blessing for mourning and praise for despair. Lives will be rebuilt, remade, in the righteousness of Christ (note 2Co 5:21).

Lord, thank you for the precious treasure of Christ’s righteousness given the duty sentries, in exchange for our sin and shame.

Faith Affirmed

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May you believe and follow Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy (Isa 61:1,2). #JesusFulfuillsProphecy # https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.61.1-2.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Somewhere around 650 BC Isaiah penned this prophecy. 700 years later a Jewish carpenter from Nazareth, named Jesus, stood and read these words in temple worship…

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him“ (Luk 4:18f).

In the middle of verse two he stopped and said, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing“ (Luk 4:21). Everything about that day in worship was normal until Jesus stopped here and laid claim to these verses for himself as the Anointed One, the Messiah of Israel.

Nothing would ever be the same again. Not the for Jesus, not for the nation of Israel nor the rest of mankind. History was at a pivot point. Three years later Jesus would die on a Roman cross to forgive the sins of mankind and open the door to eternal life. Lord, my faith and belief in you is affirmed. I will follow you to the end as the faithful fulfillment of this prophecy.

Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be renewed in joyful expectation of the glorious reign of Jesus (Isa 60:19-22; Rev 21:22-25). #MineEyesHaveSeenTheGloryOfTheComingOfTheLord https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.60.19-22.NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rev.22.6-20.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah continues to prophesy of the marvelous reign of our Redeemer King – God’s Messiah, Jesus Christ. This is his promise to his people. He will stand at the head of the New Jerusalem, exalted (v9). His people, though they have faltered and have known God‘s discipline (v10), will be called the City of the Lord (v14).

God’s people will know him as Savior and Lord (v16). The sun will never set on his people, his Temple, his City (v19,20; Rev 21:22-25). God will be their everlasting and eternal light (v20). God concludes with these words: “At the right time I, the Lord, will make it happen.“

Today, this aged sentry is renewed with the words of that old battle hymn, “Mine eyes have seen the glory of coming of the Lord. Glory, Gory, Hallelujah.”

Rise n’ Shine!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Look for the light of Christ to shine into your darkness (Isa 60:1–6). #RiseNShine #Reveille #TheGloryOfTheLord https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.60.1-3.AMP

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Comes a righteous king (Isa 59:16b – 20) to set men right with God. “Rise n’ Shine,“ Oh Jerusalem, the glory of the Lord appears over you. In the midst of heavy darkness the light of the world will shine upon you. Nations will come to your light. The people of Zion will return to you. Your wealth will be renowned.

Isaiah looks over the horizon of time to an age when men will come to the light. Jesus our redeemer, our Messiah, came into a world of darkness. He is the light of men (Jhn 8:12; 2Co 4:6). He will come again as conquering king. “Thus saith the Lord,” through Isaiah. Lord, you have shined your light into my darkness; may your light be reflected through me to others in darkness.

On this Veterans Day I can say that quiet literally the Lord Jesus shined into my darkness. It was December 28, 1968, between 2:00 & 3:00 AM. I was on watch in a guard tower in Vietnam. Jesus broke into my darkness and nothing has been the same since.

Wonderful Savior

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Have open eyes and hearts to the Savior, Jesus (Isaiah 59:17–21). #Salvation #Redeemer #Repentance

Yeshuah, Jesus, Weeps & Prays Over Jerusalem

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God’s answer to the sin of men and there inability to save themselves is to send a righteous, sinless redeemer. He will be dressed in righteousness and robbed in Divine passion. He will judge God’s enemies, all of sin and deliver Salvation.

This redeemer Prince from Jerusalem (Yeshuah [Jesus] Rom 11:26), will keep covenant with Israel, save her from her sin. Indeed all of mankind will benefit, from east to west, from the Lord’s salvation. All those who turn from sin will know the salvation of the Lord. Lord, what a wonderful, merciful and thoughtful Savior you are.

Life Source (pt 2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Joyously worship God at the release of those held captive by sin (Isa 55:12,13). #NewLifeInChrist #JoytoTheWorld https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.13.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah leaves some further thoughts from nature. Consider the “mountains, hills, trees and fields.” They will sing and clap their hands joyously for the captives who have been set free. This prophecy reveals that Israel will come out of 70 years of captivity in Babylon. She will be delivered and returned to her homeland. She will enjoy peace. O, how the creation of God will sing joyously for her.

This prophecy further says that “thorns and pesky nettles will be turned into beautiful flowered plants.” In the same way, the Gospel of peace has the power to change the hardest of sinners. There will be great rejoicing in heaven over every sinner who repents and turns to Jesus (Luke 15:7). God’s word has the power to change lives. My best response is to worship God giving thanks for the captives set free.

Life Source (pt 1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Give thanks for the efficacy of God‘s word to bring new life (Isa 55:9,10). #NewLife #GodsWordWorks https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.10-11.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The natural world teaches me the efficacy of God’s word. Consider the rain and the snow that falls indiscriminately on every part of the earth. The winter snow blankets the earth, melts and waters the soil. In the Spring the rains fall, further watering the soil. We see the effects of these natural phenomenon when tiny buds appear at the end of a branch, or a stalk, or a vine. THERE IS LIFE !

In the same way God’s word goes out in every direction and soaks into the soil of men’s hearts. It waters and nourishes the dry thirsty soul. Then at the right time comes the budding of new life and renewal. God’s word has the power to change lives. Thank you Lord, for your word, which produces life-giving nourishment to every needy soul.