Speak Up

(Ezk 33:7-9)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Faithfully speak for God as he gives utterance. (Ezk 33:7-9). #StandYourPost #ThePrayerSentry #ObeySentinalOrders #HearYeHereYe

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God applies the watchman‘s responsibilities to Ezekiel specifically. He is to announce to the people that the wicked will die if they do not repent. If he fails to warn them and they die in their sins, God will hold Ezekiel personally responsible.

But if Ezekiel warns them and they don’t repent and they die in their sins, they will be accountable. But you Ezekiel, will have saved yourself. Lord, I have no less responsibility, may I “SPEAK UP” and sound clear warnings as God gives me utterance.

Sentinel Standing Orders

(Ezk 33:1-6)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

As parent, friend, citizen, faithful Christian, carry out your sentinel orders (Ezk 33:1-6). #StandYourPost #ThePrayerSentry #ObeySentinalOrders

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

These verses mark a shift in the focus of Ezekiel‘s message to God‘s people. But first God reminds Ezekiel of his duty as a watchman on the wall. The watchman’s duties are two-fold: 1) watch for signs of an enemy advancing; 2) warn the people of the city clearly.

If the people Ignore the watchmen and they die, the responsibility is theirs. But if the watchman sees the enemy and does not sound the alarm to warn the people, he will be held responsible for their demise. He will be accountable to God for their deaths.

Lord, I am reminded of my sentinel orders: stand faithfully, watch vigilantly, pray earnestly, speak/act boldly.

Street Cred

(3Jn 1:12)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May you know, and be known as, a person of truth (3Jn 1:12). #BeTheTruth #LiveTheTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Demetrius is another like Gaius, who walks and talks the truth. Everyone speaks highly of this man. John says that even truth, if it could talk, would speak highly of Demetrious. That is real “STREET CRED”. He was a glowing example for all believers. Even those who were not believers.

“You [speaking to Gaius] know we speak the truth of his witness.“ This man stands in sharp contrast to Diotrephes (vv 9,10). There is a threefold witness: everyone says, we say and truth says, Demetrius is a man to emulate. Lord, I am honored to know and to have known men and women like Demetrius.

REALLY SAVED? REALLY SAVED!

(3Jn 1:11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May your lifestyle of godly words & actions reflect Christ (3Jn 1:11). #SavedForSure #ReallySaved! #SecureInChrist

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

If I am honest, I have to ask, “If I sin, am I truly saved; have I truly trusted Christ as my savior?“ This verse, taken in context with other writings of John, answers that question. The “doing” here is in a verb form that means the HABITUAL act of “doing“ what is good. This is as opposed to HABITUAL sin that is evil and bad (note 1Jn 3:4-7, 16-21).

So, even if I am feeling guilty about a sin, God‘s grace is greater. He has conquered my guilt and shame. He has forgiven ALL my sin. Is that license to sin? Paul says, “Not only no, but heck no!” (Rom 6:1,2) Lord, may I be reminded by my lifestyle of grace and godly “doing” that I belong to Christ.

Polar Opposites

(3Jn 1:9-11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Be discerning of ego-driven church leaders (3Jn 1:9-11).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

John makes reference to another letter, which is lost to us in antiquity. A man named Diotrephes, an outspoken leader in the church, was not willing to accept whatever John wrote. [Perhaps he trashed the letter]. He was the polar opposite of Gaius.

Diotrephes was self-serving and ego-driven. He spread lies about John. He refused to welcome “traveling teachers”. Any who did so, he stopped them or put them out of the church. OMG! John condemns this behavior. It’s sad that such people exist in the church.

Lord, may I be discerning of ego-driven “church” people; may I check my own ego.

Partners In Ministry (Pt2)

(3Jn 1:5-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Seek ways to encourage those in ministry (3Jn 1:5-8). #PartnersInMinistry #TravelingMinistry

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Reading the account of Gaius and his extraordinary ministry to some itinerant teachers/ministers, got me to thinking: what are ways that I can (and have) support such men and women of God?* It takes a team!

First and foremost is to always be discerning of the message they bring. Next is Prayer – always a vital link in ministry.

Provide a meal and shelter in your home as able. Show interest, get to know these ministers and their ministry.

Support gospel ministries financially as you are able and lead by God. Counsel them when they have a need. Write notes of encouragement. Labor with them as able in their field of ministry.

What a blessing to partner in the work of the gospel. Lord, may I always look for opportunities to encourage those in ministry.

________

* Here’s a few scriptures encouraging partnership in ministries: 2Cor 9:6 7ff; Gal 6:2; Eph 6:8; 1Th 5:11–13; Heb 10:24; 13:17,18.

Partners In Ministry (Pt1)

(3Jn 1:5-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Joyfully & faithfully support full-time Gospel ministries (3Jn 1:5-8). #PartnersInMinistry #TravelingMinistry

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The focus shifts from Gaius to various “traveling teachers“ (NLT) (“brothers“-ESV) or sisters in Christ. These were brethren (men and/or women) who had surrendered to some form of the gospel ministry. They were willing to go wherever God would lead them. They were not in it for the money, but for the sake of Christ and the Gospel.

John says that we, the church, do well to support such committed ministers of the Gospel of Christ. In doing this, we become partners with them in spreading the Gospel of truth in Christ. Lord, may I be always willing to support those who genuinely serve for the sake of Christ.

Giving Honor

(3Jn 1:3,4)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Honor & support those in Christ who are serving him (3Jn 1:3,4). #ShowHonor #HonorThoseServingChrist

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

John recognizes Gaius for his exceptional walk of faith, living according to the truth. Traveling ministers (“teachers” – NLT) had borne a witness to the exceptional ministry of Gaius to them. Gaius welcomed all those walking in the truth, even though strangers to him (v5).

John is exceedingly joyful to know that those “children of his“, those led to faith in Christ by him, are living out the gospel daily. Lord, may it be said of me that I did my best to honor those who work serving Christ.

“DEEP WATER FRIENDS”*

(2Jn 1:12,13)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Seek ways to encourage “deep water, friends“ (2Jn 1:12,13). #DeepWaterFriends #EcourageOneAnother

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Here is a gracious complementary closing to a very friendly letter. Of course, there is the admonition to be cautious of false teachers that were wandering about. But this epistle is as encouraging as it is anything else.

John also sends a greeting from the children (nieces/nephews) of our “elect lady’s” sister. Some consider this to be a greeting from another church and its members. I take it in the more personal way, considering the letter as a whole. [It’s encouraging either way]

Notes and letters to friends in the faith are powerful medicine. Lord, I want all my “deep water friends“ to know how deeply I appreciate them.

_________

* “Deep water friends” is a term I learned from my daughter-in-law. In a recent conversation we were talking about close friendships that go deep in shared experiences; those who hang with you in the hard times. Thanks Staci.

Dismiss Deniers & Deceivers

(2Jn 1:9-11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Be always alert to and faithful to the truth (2Jn 1:9-11). #KnowTheTruth #BeFaithfulToTheTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

False teachers, professed deniers and deceivers, those who do not teach the truth about Christ, have no relationship with Christ. But those who remain faithful to the teachings of Christ, they know the father and the son.

Dismiss those deniers and deceivers. Don’t even invite them into your meetings or encourage them in any way. To do so is to establish them further and to take part in their evil work. Any such purveyor of false teaching is a danger to the body of Christ.

Lord, may I always be alert to truth and faithful to the truth.

Not Blue/Not Red – Righteous!

Dear Heavenly Father, heading into this current election cycle, I call upon you to point our nation in the direction of justice and righteousness. May there be a repudiation of all that is unjust and unrighteous wherever it may lurk.

I bow praying in this election cycle. It is not a Blue prayer, a Red prayer or anything in between. I am simply claiming the prayer of Amos 5:24, “May justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”

God desires more than lip service. He desires more than anything, lives that reflect His character.

Knowing & Doing

(2Jn 1:8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Be discerning of beliefs; be diligent to act on those beliefs (2Jn 1:8). #KnowYourFaith #ActOnYourFaith

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

John is calling for careful self-examination and diligence to the truths of Scripture. Self-examination refers to the honest assessment and appraisal of what one believes and how it is applied to life. To ignore this is to lose what one has learned.

Diligence applies not only to one’s words, but to one’s deeds. That is, to work out in godly actions what God has worked into one’s life. All of this will assure the certainty of the believer’s rewards (note 1Co 3:12-14).

These things enable the believer to avoid falling into error and heresy. Lord, may I honestly assess what I am hearing and believing and boldly carry out the commands of Scripture.

Love Out Loud

(2Jn 1:5,6)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Show Christ’s love towards others (2Jn 1:5,6). #LoveOutLoud #ServingOthers #DeedsMoreThanWords #PutOthersFirst

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

John returns to a recurring theme in his writings. Believers should be the best at expressing love towards others (Jhn 3:16; 13:34; 1Jn 2:7; 3:18). We could use a lot of that in these days of political unrest and violence. Believers ought to “Love Out Loud,” shining this love light on prejudice, discrimination, and harsh judgment.

Love will listen, accept others (not the sin but the people). Believers ought to give and serve sacrificially. The “chosen lady“ in verses one through four give us a picture of that. [In fact, that’s how I remember my sweet bride of 53 years] I aspire to that. Lord, may your kind of agapé (Gk) love shine out loud in me.

__________

Check this post out:

No One Excluded

Living, Loving, Serving

(2Jn 1:1-4)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Live to please God and serve others (2Jn 1:1-4). #Legacy #PleasingGod #ServingOthers

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

It’s hard to move on from John’s introduction without a summary of the godly virtues that describe the “chosen lady“ (Kyria). What distinguishes this woman ought to inspire me to live my best life for Christ.

1) She had her house in order.

2) She was gracious and hospitable.

3) She was committed to the faith.

4) She gave her family a legacy of faith and service.

5) She was loved and admired by all who knew her.

That’s the kind of man I wish to be. Lord, may my life be pleasing to you and a witness to others of your love and grace.

Living to Leave a Legacy

(2Jn 1:4)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May you live to leave a living testimony, (2Jn 1:4). #Legacy #LiveToLeaveALegacy

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

John makes one further note of the fidelity of this “distinguished lady.“ He mentioned his joy at having met some of her children. They are likely now adults. John says they are living their lives according to the truths of God and following the commands of the Father.

Are these her biological children or spiritual children? likely they are her own children. Either way, this beautiful matriarch of the faith has invested her life in the next generation. She has left the mark of Christ on those coming behind her.

Lord, may I be so fortunate and intentional as to leave such a legacy.

The Reflection

(2Jn 1:1,2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Be a reflection of God’s love to others (2Jn 1:1,2). #GodsLove #ReflectChristsLove

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Included in this greeting from John to the “chosen lady“ or “Kyria“, are her children (no mention of a husband – she was likely a widow). John expresses a genuine love towards them (gk:“agape“; that love that emanates from the love of Christ ). This love points also to the truth of knowing Christ.

John points to the fact that all who knew this family loved them as well, in Christ. He speaks also of truth as an eternal truth and it is alive in them as believers. This same truth is alive in all believers. Even today our lives should be an expression of that love to the world. Lord, may I reflect the true light and love of God in Christ to others.

Respect is Earned

(2Jn 1:1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we show respect for those who make sacrifices to lead (2Jn 1:1). #ShowRespect #EarnRespect

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This brief letter (more like a note card) is written to “the chosen lady“ (NLT). The Greek here is “eklekte kyria.“ Most translators call her “elect“ or “chosen lady.“ But “kyria“ (transliteration) may also have been a common name. Either way John highly respects this woman (that we shall soon see).

This distinguished woman “Kyria” was certainly a well known figure in the local church. Perhaps even hosting the church in her home (v10). One feels like they know her at the outset. I have known many such women in the churches I’ve attended or served. Lord, may I always show respect to whom and where it is due.

May I Speak Freely?

(Ezk 24:25-27)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May God be glorified in your limitations (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭24:25-27). #God’sStrengthForMyWeakness #GodBeGlorified

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This prophetic segment ends on an historic note. When the attack on Jerusalem had been carried out, Ezekiel would be notified. At that point, he would be allowed to speak freely again. Ezekiel had been struck dumb for some seven years, speaking only messages from God.* Imagine how isolated he felt. But this too was a sign of God‘s judgment and mighty works.

There are times when God may temporarily (or permanently) set limitations in our lives. He does it for his glory, purposes and effects (Apostle Paul experienced something similar 2Co 12:17). It is by grace alone that the man or woman of God comes to rely totally on him to overcome.

Lord, grant me the grace to live overcoming weakness in your strength alone.

_________

* History records that Ezekiel was unable to speak, except when his tongue was loose by God to deliver God‘s message to the people (note 3:26,27 – the beginning of his prophetic ministry; approx. 593 BC). Ezekiel would be allowed to speak freely again when a fugitive survivor from Jerusalem reported its final destruction to Ezekiel and the exiles in Babylon (note 33:21,22 – approx. 586 BC).

Obedience Over Feelings

(Ezk 24:15,16)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Choose obedience over feelings (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭24:15-21). #ObedienceOverFeelings #HardChoices #ChooseGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel has paid a high price to be God‘s spokesman. He has been obedient. Now he is asked by God to prophesy his own wife’s death to the people (they must have been aghast). He does so in the morning and by evening, his wife had died.

What’s the point? It symbolized the sudden destruction of Jerusalem, and all its people. Just as Ezekiel had lost the delight of his life, so the exiles would lose their delight, Jerusalem, and all their loved ones in that city. Lord, may I be obedient when asked to do hard things.

Accepting The Insufferable

(Ezk 24:15,16)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Will you surrender to God your dearest treasure (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭24:15,16)?#Repent #TurnNowToGod #Time’sUp

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

What would I do if God asked me to do the insufferable? What if he asked me to give up the thing that was my dearest, most treasured possession? Have I truly died to self? Would I willingly do that? Is there any “line in the sand“, “bridge too far”, beyond which I will not go?

Would Abraham sacrifice his son, Hosea marry a prostitute, God, the father, sacrifice his son, Jesus? Would Christians die by the thousands under Nero of Rome? Would Ezekiel give up his wife in a sudden death; all of these things, for God to make a point? My tradition holds many who have considered the suffering of the “cross” of greater value than life itself (Heb11:35-38).

Lord, may all my deepest questions this morning find their meaning in you; in your mercy and grace.

Willing Surrender

(Psm 32:9-11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Willingly surrender to God‘s direction (Psm 32:9-11). #WillingSurrender #FollowTheLord #ListenToGod

Verse eight promises guidance from the Lord. Here is some of that guidance. Don’t be unwilling or too stubborn to be tamed or moved by God towards a willing spirit.

The horse and the mule can be ornery by nature, brought under control only by brute force or fear. But man Should not be the same. He can reason and has a conscience. Men are not meant to be governed in such a corporeal manner.

“Men should allow themselves to be controlled by appeals [from God] to their moral conscience. Man is of a higher [moral] nature and should allow themselves to be governed by it.“*

Lord, may I willingly surrender to God’s leadership & direction

_________

* Barnes Notes on the Old Testament, Pg. 276.

Good Testimony of Conscience

(Psm 25:16-22)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Make certain a clear conscience before God and man (Psm 25:16-22). #GoodConscience #CallUponGod

“I always strive to have a clear conscience toward God and men.” (Acts‬ ‭24‬:‭16‬)

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This prayer closes as it began (v1,2). The deep distress of soul reaches for divine favor and mercy. Things have gone from bad to worse in the life of the psalmist. The difficulty, sorrow and distress of spirit is heavy upon him. He relies upon his good testimony of conscience. He has done nothing to provoke his adversary.

The psalmist closes seeking remedy and relief from those who wish to do him harm. But God knows the truth. His trust and hope is in God alone. He calls upon God to redeem him from his troubles. At times, only I alone and God know the motivations of my heart and actions. Lord, may I always have a clear conscience toward God and man.

Life Purpose

(Psm 25:11-15)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Make this be your one purpose, to please God alone (Psm 25:11-15). #HonorGod #PleaseGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Here is a powerful promise of God. Those who reverence, honor God, will be shown the path they should choose. They will live in prosperity [peace, health, well-being; security and abundance].

Their children will inherit a good fortune. The Lord will be their friend and clearly teach them his covenant. A life characteristic of such a one is that his/her eyes are always on the Lord.

The Lord will steer them clear of any enemy, adversary or temptation.

Lord, may it ever be my one purpose in life to please you alone.

The Path

(Psm 25:8-10)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Remain faithful to follow the path God sets you upon (Psm 25:8-10). #FollowGod #ThePath #TheWayOfTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God can be counted upon to do what is right. If I go astray, he shows me the way back to his path. The humble he will guide. He will lead them on his path for them.

If I am faithful, keep covenant with God and obey his commands, I can count on him to continue to guide me in mercy and truth. Why would I not give myself wholeheartedly to following my Lord?

Lord, may I remain walking in THE PATH you have laid out for me; correct me when I stray.

I Surrender

(Psm 25:1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Surrender all to Christ today (Psm 25:1). #ISurrenderAll #JesusIsLord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

“Oh Lord, I give my life to you.“ These words impact my heart like the bat that strikes a home-run ball out of the park. December 28, 1968, a young 21 year-old recruit, standing sentry in a guard tower over the Saigon River, surrendered to God. *

After many years of running from God, this, now 80-year-old sentry, laid down his weapons of this world and surrendered his life to the Lordship of Christ. I never looked back; been serving Christ now these 58 years. I would not change anything.

Lord, thank you for relentlessly pursuing this old sentry, then persistently leading me.

__________

Read full testimony this blog: https://theprayersentry.com/2023/03/23/window-of-opportunity/

Hale The Victor

(Psm 20:6-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May you surround and be surrounded by others in prayer (Psm 20:1-5: ). #America #Prayer #Intercession

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The king responds to the prayers of his people with assurance that God will be with him. He is absolutely certain of God‘s deliverance. Some put their faith in “chariots and horses.“ Their strength is in their own limited resources. But the people of God put their faith in the mighty name of the Lord. He will cause his people to rise up and stand firm. The people then lifted their voices, declaring victory.

Going through a trial recently in my life, I was surrounded by brothers and sisters in Christ praying for my family. I felt like the winning coach being carried off the field in victory. Lord, the prayers of the saints will literally carry one through the battles of life. Lord, may I be surrounded by prayer warriors; may I also join in prayers for others.

Called To Pray For National Leaders

(Psm 20:1-5)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May all our nation’s leaders have favor with God; may their plans succeed (Psm 20:1-5). #America #PrayForNstionalLeaders

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This psalm begins in a third person narrative. It reflects a band of worshipers; a congregation of prayer warriors lifting their national leader in prayer. Their leader, the King of Israel, is with them as they pray for him.

Lord, the battle is before us. May our great God keep our king safe and may he send help and strength from the dwelling place of God on high.

May God look with favor upon the king’s sacrifice as accompanied by his prayers.

We will shout praise for victory – raise our banner in the name of our God.

May the Lord answer all our king’s prayers.

The people of God are called upon to pray for all their leaders (red, blue & purple. Lord, this is how the prayer sentry must pray for national leaders today.

Called to Help

(Psm 12:5,6)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Stay open and ready to meet the needs of others (Psm 12:5,6). #WalkInSurrenderToGod #ShowConpassion

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God‘s word is 100% reliable. It has stood the test of time and credibility. What God says, he will do. He cares for the helpless and the oppressed. When they cry out to him, he hears them and will meet their need. How? I am called to be God‘s hands and feet in this world.

Every believer is called upon to seek ways in which we might minister and support those who are in genuine need. Matthew 9:35-38 might be a companion passage and also an example for me to follow. Lord, may I be alert to pain or suffering around me and take action.

God + You = Majority

(Psm 12:1-4)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Trust that God is with his godly ones in the battle against evil (Psm 12:1-4). #WalkInSurrenderToGod #FullyRelyOnGod #YouDoNotStandAlone

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

It is difficult to read these verses and not be mindful of the godless cultural rhetoric and dialogue of recent years in our own nation. David decries the open lies, boastful pride and defiance running rampant in his culture. “Who can stop us?“ was their arrogant cry.

David finds himself hard-pressed to find anyone faithful to core biblical values. Like David, I may at times feel alone in the fight against ungodliness. Well, I am not alone and there is one who can stop it.* David calls upon Jehovah God to silence lying lips and boastful, arrogant tongues.

Lord, may I have confidence in knowing that I do not stand alone and you are with me.

________

* Wicked King Ahab of Israel and his wife Jezebel had the great prophet Elijah on the run after he took out 700 prophets of Baal. Elijah mourned that he was the “only one left” in the fight against evil. This account is worth the read. (1Ki 19‬:‭1-18‬)

Now You See Me; Now You Don’t

(Ezekiel 20:5-10)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we live in this world without acting like the world (Ezk 20:30-31). #WalkWithGod #InTheWorldButNotOfIt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The bulk of this chapter details how Israel, God‘s chosen people, went off the rails time and time again. They disobeyed God‘s commands, rejected his decrees, flagrantly ignored God’s Sabbath rest and they went about sacrificing their children on alters of fire to other gods. Despicable!

Ezekiel makes reference to idol worship 17 times. Verse 32 implies that the elders speaking to Ezekiel (v1), had syncretized their worship of God with many other gods. Jehovah was just one of many. They had become and were becoming more like the culture around them. God was abandoning his people to the consequences of their sin (vv 25,26; Rom ‭1‬:‭22‬-‭25‬).

Lord, may my life reflect you‬; may I not grow accustomed to [be a reflection of] the culture around me.