Legacy Matters*

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be inspired by GODLY examples of faith; be one yourself (2Ki 24:6–12). #Legacy #LegacyMatters

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After the death of Johoiakim his son, Johoiachin, became king of Judah. He was 18 years of age. He reigned for 90 days. In that short time he proved that he was just as wicked as his father. Jehoiakim‘s legacy to his son was arrogance, immorality, self aggrandizement, and rebellion.

Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, was not going to tolerate any further rebellion in Judah (already under Babylonian control). So he laid siege to Jerusalem. Jehoiachin and his mother were both taken prisoner and deported to Babylon. They never returned to Judah again. Lord, may I leave a legacy that inspires faithfulness to God.

________

* Legacy is a robust influencer for good or bad. The root word of legacy is “legate”: an envoy, emissary or ambassador; one appointed to represent another.

EXAMPLE: The apostle Paul said, ”we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, ‘Come back to God!’ “ (2Co 5:19-20)

All that said, I define legacy as, an ambassador of inspiration after I am dead and gone.

Remain Faithful To God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Resolve to remain faithful to God in all your ways (Jer 22:18-23; 2Ki 24:5,6) #RetunToGod #Repent

Jehoiakim’s Unceremonious Death and Burial

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Following the prophecies of the destruction of Judah’s enemies (Jer Chs 48 & 49), we read Jeremiah’s prophecy of the final days of king Jehoiakim. It’s not a pretty picture. He would not live to see his enemies destroyed.

No one will mourn Jehoiakim’s death. His body will be dragged to the city dump and unceremoniously discarded like an old mule. He was warned multiple times of his need to repent and turn back to God. But he would not listen. For this he went down in shame and disgrace just a Jeremiah said.*

Lord, may this old sentry remain faithful to the Lord my God; may America’s leaders lead us to follow God.

_________

* According to Jewish historian, Josephus, Jehoiakim’s demise is confirmed. He writes that Nebuchadnezzar [King of Babylon] slew Jehoiakim along with high-ranking officers and then commanded Jehoiakim’s body “to be thrown before the walls, without any burial.” Jeremiah’s prophecy is fulfilled.

Having Peace With God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we (America) resolve to walk humbly before God (Jer 48:1-49:39 as selected). #WalkHumblyWithGod #BeJustAndMerciful

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah chapters 48 and 49 name the nations and cities around Judah to be judged and destroyed (Moab- 48:1, Ammon- 49:1, Edom- 49:7, Damascus- 49:23, Kedar/Hazor- 49:28 and Elam- 49:34).*

Scripture does not explain the specific sins of each nation. A few sins in these nations do take center stage: godlessness, idolatry, pride/arrogance and harassment of Israel. None will be spared who pridefully stick their finger in God’s eye and consider themselves beyond reproach. The key to living at peace with God is to “be just and merciful to others to live humbly before him (Mic 6:8).

Lord, may I (may the American people) be resolved to follow faithfully and walk humbly before you.

_________

* Moab, Ammon and Elam are prophesied some sort of restoration. Commentators mostly agree that these and similar promises of mercy after judgment are chiefly to be understood as the conversion of the Gentiles under the gospel.

Last Act of Defiance

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Remain surrendered in your heart to God (2Ki 24:1–5). #RepentAndReturnToGod #FullSurrenderToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Johoiakim, king of Judah, has defiantly burned the scroll containing Jeremiah‘s prophecy (Jer 36:21,26–32). He is destined to live out his days as a king in conflict. He loses his ally Egypt – defeated by Babylon. As a result, Judah and the nations around her become vassal states of Babylon.

After three years, Johoiakim defiantly rebels against Nebuchadnezzar. Babylon is quick to respond through new proxy nations they control and put the rebellion down (first of three invasions; captives, including Johoiakim, were deported to Babylon). All this happened just as God promised through the prophets due to the sins of Manasseh (2Ki 21:10–16). Johoiakim returned and died in Jerusalem, but had no royal burial (Jer 22:18,19).

Men foolishly think that they can defy God without consequence. Lord, may I always know a surrendered heart to you.

Storm Warning

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Heed the warning signs of sin’s consequences (Jer 36:26–32). #WarningSigns #StormWarning #SinHasConsequences

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After the defiant Jehoiakim had burned the scroll of Jeremiah‘s prophecies he ordered Jeremiah and his scribe Baruch to be arrested. But God had hidden them and they were not found. After that, the Lord spoke to Jeremiah another message:

“Write the scroll again. Inform the king, “You did not like what the scroll said regarding the king of Babylon who would destroy Judah completely. Now this is what I [the Lord] say about you, king of Judah. You will have no heirs to succeed you on the throne of David. Your body will be unburied and exposed to the elements (Jer 22:17-19). I will pour out disaster on Judah just as I have promised. For neither you nor my people would listen to my warnings.”

Lord, may every sentry recognize that there will be grave consequences for sin.

DEFIANT!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Respect & revere God’s word; repent & return to God (Jer 36:20-26). #Repent #ReturnToGod #RespectGod’sWord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

“DEFIANT!“ That is the only word that comes to my mind reading this passage. The king of Judah listened to the reading of Jeremiah‘s prophecies against Judah. Then, section by section, as it was read, he DEFIANTLY cut the scroll and put it in a fire pot…burned it completely up.

Frighteningly, no one present in his court showed any remorse or repentance for sin. Three officials from the Temple briefly protested, but to no avail. Jehoiakim‘s actions revealed his attitude toward God, DEFIANT! It would not end well for him or the nation of Judah.

Lord, may I respect and revere your word, repent where convicted and return to you.

Signs of Destruction

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we in America not neglect a sincere repentance (Jer 36:5–7). #Repent #ReturnToGod #NationalRepentance

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The dating of this chapter (“the fourth year of Jehoiakim’s reign in Judah“ – v1) is significant. The Babylonians had already taken over Palestine* and had enforced their will on Judah. Jehoiakim was already paying tribute (taxes) to Nebuchadnezzar. Jerusalem and the land around it had not yet been destroyed. But signs of destruction were present. Jeremiah’s prophecies were unfolding.

The day of fasting mentioned here would have been an important event, as it was being held in response to a national emergency. Babylonian incursions into the territory, would have certainly triggered such a religious act. But a sincere fast would also include genuine repentance. That would not happen (v24). Lord, how can we not repent at so grave a time as we face today.**

* The Babylonian incursion into Palestine would have been today’s equivalent of Russia annexing Crimea and threatening Ukraine.

** Today our world order is shifting. America, though still fairly strong, is becoming less influential and more vulnerable to attacks on many fronts. China, Russia, Iran and N Korea (especially China) present significant threats to democracy and free societies. Anyone who can read the news has to be able to see that.

Things that are weakening the United States of America today are crime, immorality, illegal immigration, weak leadership, revolutionary ideologies, national disunity and vitriol, declining education, a weakening of the family, et all. These are the things that are making America more vulnerable to those hostile towards her way of life.

God of Compassion

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Heed God’s written word as his loving appeal to seek him (Jer 36:1-4) #GodOfMercy #Compassion #God’sWord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After 23 years of preaching (Jer 25:3), God instructs Jeremiah to write down every message he has preached to Israel and Judah. [That’s a lot of sermon notes]. So, Jeremiah dictated his messages to his secretary Baruch.

God explains why Jeremiah should write down his messages. “Perhaps the people of Judah will repent when they hear again [all the judgments against them]. Then I will be able to forgive their sins and wrongdoings“ (v3).

God continues to show mercy and compassion for sinful people. He is never willing for any to perish (2Pe 3:9). It is his desire for people to trust and follow after him and live an abundant life (Jhn 10:10). Lord, I am reminded that your compassions never fails us and they are new every morning (Lam 3:22,23).

Lesson of the Recabites

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Remain steadfast and devoted to God and his word (Jer 35:12-19). #SteadfastObedience #Judgment #Recabites #Devoted

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah chapter 35 draws a contrast between the Recabites and Judah. For 300 years this Israelite tribe firmly stood by their ancestor, Johanadab’s “man-made” command, not to drink wine nor assimilate into the culture of the time; they remained nomads. But Judah could not, would not, remain true to the very words, commands, of God.

The result was Judah would be judged and the Recabites would be blessed with descendants that would serve God. It is God‘s desire that his people live in obedience and steadfast devotion to him. Lord, may my life honor you by steadfast devotion and obedience to you.

Nowhere to Run or Hide

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be warned and alert, God will judge sin (Jer 25:34-38). #NowhereToRunNowhereToHide #God’sJudgmentIsCertain #TurnNowToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah continues the metaphor of a lion attacking the shepherd’s flocks. The shepherds (leaders of godless nations) look on helplessly. They are left weeping, broken, for their loss of power, wealth, and prestige. Their peaceful pasture lands (source of power and wealth) are laid waste by God‘s judgment. Their fortunes and lives are decimated (Luke 12:18–20 comes to mind). Their resources provide no means of escape.

The lion of Judah has left his den and is stalking and devouring those who stand against him. God‘s fierce anger will not be denied. The nations shepherds are powerless before Jehovah God. Lord, this sentry is awake and alert; no godless nation, leader, people or individual will escape God’s anger and judgment of sin. America, are you taking notes?

Cup of Wrath

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May you never abandon God (Jer 25:15–29). #TurnNowToGod #Repent

The imagery of the cup of God, filled and running over the brim, speaks of the wrath of God. All the known nations of Jeremiah‘s time (all named here) will be made to drink of this cup. They would be falling down as a drunken sot, and throwing up. That is, they would be fully overcome by God‘s judgment, as did occur at the hands of Babylon.

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Judgment here begins with Judah. It ends with judgment on Babylon. She would be left in the ashes of history. God states in verse 29, “If I punish Jerusalem, the city that bears my name, shall I let go unpunished the sin, corruption, and perversion of every other nation?” NO! None will escape God’s judgment. AMERICA TODAY NEEDS REVIVAL AND AWAKENING. Lord, when we abandon you and refuse to return to you, we may surely know your abandonment of us (Pro 1:24-33; Dan9:5,6; Rom 1:28,29; 1Th 5:19-22).

70 Year Exile: Significance (Prt 3of3)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Put your hope in the reliability of God‘s word (Jer 25:11–14). #WakeUpAmerica #God’sWordIsTrue #TrustGodToJudgeSin

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

One last point can be made on the significance of Israel’s 70 year exile: Babylon is on the clock for destruction. God says he will punish Babylon for her sin, godless cruelty, moral perversion and lawlessness. Babylon will be no more, gone forever as a nation. The prophecies of her destruction are written by Jeremiah in chapters 50 and 51.

Babylon will become the slave to the many nations they conquered and enslaved. She will be punished in proportion to the suffering she perpetrated on others. Seventy years later, in 537 BC under King Cyrus, the Persians conquered Babylon (see Daniel 5:22-31). Babylon would never be heard from again. God’s judgments are reliable, thorough and on-time.

Will God deal with godless nations? Absolutely! Should America be concerned? Absolutely! Lord, I may put my complete hope in the truth and reliability of your word.

70 Year Exile: Significance (Prt 2of3)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Respect God‘s discipline; fulfill his plan (Jer 25:11–14). #ForOurGood #GodDisciplinesHisLovedOnes #God’sDiscipline

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Another significant thing that can be said for the announcement of the 70 years of captivity is that it gives hope to those faithful to God. The godly remnant can take heart knowing that God‘s anger would not last forever. The joy of the bridegroom, the prosperity of the land would return. His mercy and grace endure forever (Jer 33:11). (See also Psm 30:5; 103:8-11; 136:1–3; Mic 7:18)

The godly would be able to endure the coming devastation (God‘s discipline) with patience, knowing that this discipline is for their greater good and well-being (Heb 12:10-13). They would not turn against God, but to him in greater love and devotion. God‘s discipline in our lives serves to make us more devoted followers. Lord, give this old sentry a healthy respect for your discipline in my life.

70 Year Exile: Significance (Prt 1of3)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be alert to the commands of God (Jer 25:11). #SinsConsequences #GodHasHisReasons #ListenWhenGodSpeaks

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Seventy years of captivity in Babylon: three things may be said about the 70 years. First, because the people of God ignored the command to let the land rest every seven years (Lev 25:3-5), God would punish them. He would destroy his people and send them into exile. Seventy years represents the years the land did not get its Sabbath rest (Lev26:33–35).

So, for their sin against God (idolatry), their sin against each other, (moral breakdown) and their sin against the land, the people of God suffered loss, devastation and honor. Lord, your judgments are complete and righteous. May I always be alert to and follow your commands.

When God Turns The Lights Out

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Pray for those who refuse to listen to God; America! You listening? (Jer 25:7-11). #TurnNowToGod #Repent #ListenToGod

Because Judah would not listen to God and continued in her sin, God would deputize king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon to destroy Judah and the surrounding nations. All of them, godless, indifferent and/or hostile to God (Rom 1).

God turned the lights out on the joy of every day life, business prosperity and the safety of one’s own home. The entire land of Judah and the surrounding nations would be laid waste. All would end up serving the Babylonians for 70 years. God would make of these nations a horror and ruin them forever. And so God did just as he said.

Lord, any sin or rebellion in this old sentry’s heart will not go unnoticed or unchecked. Repentance starts with me.

It’s Time!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be not deterred from sharing God‘s message of salvation (Jer 25:1–4). #GoodNews #StandFast #MissionMakeDisciples #MessageTurnToGod.

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Time has now come, as warned by Jeremiah. God’s judgment was about to fall on the nation of Judah, for her sin and idolatry. We know from this text and the prophet Habakkuk that Babylon would be God‘s instrument of that judgment (v9; Hab 1:6). Jeremiah had been warning the people of this for twenty-three years.

Imagine preaching for 23 years the same basic message with no response. God’s people continued in their indifference and even hostility towards the message and the messenger. Other prophets of God in that day receive the same treatment. Lord, may I be as faithful to the message and mission (Mat 28:19,20) as Jeremiah was to his message and mission. ITS TIME!

Prophecy Fulfilled

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Have an abiding faith in the reliability of God‘s word; he does what he says (2Ki 24:1,7; 2Ch 36:6,7).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Sometime following the end of Habakkuk’s written prophecies (605 BC) Judah was overtaken by Babylon. Jehoiakim was king of Judah (2Ki 24:1). Judah became a vessel state. Babylon later seized Jerusalem, bound Jehoiakim and removed him to Babylon (2Ch 36:6).

The first captives were taken from Judah to Babylon. This began Jeremiah‘s prophecy that God‘s people would go into 70 years of captivity (Jer 25:11). Egypt at the time was an ally to Judah, but Babylon had already defeated her (2Ki 24:7). Egypt was of no help to Judah. It is clear, when God moves in judgment, there is no turning back. Lord, I can fully rely on your word. Your word is sure.

Song From The Watchtower (Ver 4)

No force on earth can stand against our righteous God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Give God praise for his protective hand on his own; may the soul of America be turned to giving thanks for God’s protective hand on her (Hab 3:12-15).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In this ode, the prophet minstrel sees a vision of God, thrashing the nations for their godless, idolatrous attitudes and immoral behavior (vv 8-10) God will do to Babylon what he did to Egypt. God‘s motive is to crush evil and deliver his own. Reference to the “anointed“ is a reference to the coming Messiah. Saving his oft erring people also preserves the coming Anointed One, Christ.

Thinking Israel would be sitting ducks at the Red Sea, Pharaoh and his army of charioteers were thrown into panic, disarray and death (Exo 14:23-28). “Selah“ following these remarks means, stop and think about what was just spoken. Lord, you are a force to reckon with when it comes to protecting your righteous ones. As one of yours, I know that I am eternally secure in your care.

Song From The Watchtower (Ver 3)

Even nature is awestruck by the mighty Power of God.

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

View God with the honor and respect due him (Hab 3:8–11). #HonorGod #GodsJudgment #GodsDeliverance

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Was God angry when he struck the rivers and parted the sea (references to God‘s judgment on Egypt & deliverance of his people*). The answer is, “No, God was not angry with the seas.“ He was sending judgment on the godless and salvation to his people. So here, God is bringing down judgment on Babylon and will deliver his people from captivity.

God is seen here as brandishing his bow and mighty arrows (symbols of power). The mountains writhe like a woman with birth pangs. The deep (oceans) lift “hands” in awe. The sun and moon stand still before God‘s mighty power. His arrows strike their intended target. His glittering spear flashes before him.

One thing is clear. God’s might and power is clearly unmatched by any other power, even the mighty forces of nature. When God moves in deliverance or judgment he does so with great force and power. Lord, I acknowledge your mighty power to judge to deliver.

_____________

* Nile River (Exo 7:20,21); Red Sea (Exo 14:21-28); Jordan River (Jos 3:14-17).

Song From The Watchtower (Ver 2b)

All Praise To The All Powerful God.

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Stand fast in trial; trust in, rely upon God‘s promises (Hab 3:3–7). #JudgmentWillCome #GodJudgesTheNations #StandFastInTrial #GodOmnipotant

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

What does the watchman see from his post? He sees the Lord coming in splendor and brilliance as a sunrise. From his hands he emits flashes of light, symbol of devine power. Pestilence and plagues go before him devouring everything in sight (as against Egypt and Assyria)*. God judges the wicked. The nations tremble before his power and all knowing eyes. Judgment will come for godless nations and peoples.

The eternal One shatters and levels everything men thought were everlasting. It is a terror for them to be confronted with such power. The watchman sees the coming judgment of Babylon (and it did); lawlessness, terror and evil will find its end in the judgment of God. America would do well to heed the lessons of nations judged by God (eg. Egypt, Assyria, Babylon).

Lord, this old sentry will stand fast through trials in awe of God‘s omniscience, presence, and power.

____________

* As in the 10 plagues of Egypt – Exodus 5-12; as in the Israel’s defeat of Assyria – 2Ch 32:22

Song From The Watchtower (Ver 2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Give praise to God for his radiant splendor and certain glorious coming (Hab 3:3). #TheComingOneTrueGod #ExaltTheComingChrist #TheGloryOfGod #Redemption

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After Hsbakkuk’s opening petition (for revival and mercy) praise is his response to all that God had shown him. No more questions. Only praise. Just as the watchmen sits high above the camp looking, watching for activity on the horizon, so Habakkuk sees in the distance a theophany of the glorious and radiant splendor of the coming one true God.

Habakkuk’s imagery recalls a great and glorious event in Israel’s history (deliverance from Egypt). Moses describes God as coming in glory to establish his nation at Mount Sinai in Teman and Mt Paran in the region of Edom (Deu 33:1,2). God appears to Habakkuk in the same glorious light and regal splendor. He will come to deliver Israel again and judge Babylon for her godlessness.

“SELAH!” (A musical term for a symbol crash or trumpets to blow; stop and let those preceding words sink into your heart and mind). Lord, what an amazing sight to behold. From Habakkuk’s watchtower to mine I see through his eyes the glory of God‘s certain coming in power. The sentry joins him in giving praise to God for his certain coming in radiant glory.

________________

Consider Ezekiel’s description of God’s glory (Ezk 1:28; 10:4; 43:2):

1:28 Like the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud on the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness all around.

Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.

10:4 And the glory of the LORD went up from the cherub to the threshold of the house, and the house was filled with the cloud, and the court was filled with the brightness of the glory of the LORD.

43:2 And behold, the glory of the God of Israel was coming from the east. And the sound of his coming was like the sound of many waters, and the earth shone with his glory.

The Apostle John’s description of God’s glory (Rev 18:1; 21:11; 21:23):

18:1 After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven, having great authority, and the earth was made bright with his glory.

21:11 having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.

21:23 And the city phas no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for qthe glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb.

Song From The Watchtower (Ver 1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May you embrace a righteous compassionate God; may America turn now to God. May God send awakening and be merciful in judgment (Hab 3:2). #WorshipGod #AltarOfPraise #RunToGod #Awakening #TurnNowToGod #Repent #Revival

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Habakkuk has heard God‘s reply to his heartfelt questions – why evil prevails. He is astounded and awestruck at God’s mighty work. He now enters into intimate communion with God in prayer. Presumably, he is still in his “watchtower“; that place of seeking. Like Job, he concludes “I have heard all about you, Lord. I am filled with awe at what I see” (see Job 42:5,6).

The prophet sings his song of prayer admitting the deep need of the people. This is the only petition in this prayer. 1) “Help us Lord, as you have before [send revival] …and 2) In your anger, show mercy.“

If we know that God won’t allow evil to persist forever; if we know that God will ultimately rain down judgment on godless nations, would this not be an appropriate petition to God in our day concerning America? Absolutely!

There is but one place to go in times of trouble. That is to our righteous and compassionate God. Lord, you are fierce in your righteousness judgments, but I am not afraid to embrace you.

Prophet Minstrel: An Ode (v.5)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Receive, revere, respond to the voice of the Triune Living God; he is not silent (Hab 2:18–20). #GodIsNotSilent #GodSpeaks #TalkToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The prophet minstrel composes his last stanza as received from God; the song of taunts sung by the prophet; a woeful dirge, V.5. It begins with the ludicrous creation of man-made idols that neither speak nor counsel anyone. They neither see nor protect. In absurdity, the people will call out to these deaf, dumb and inanimate idols. But they do not, cannot respond. [Elijah and the prophets of Baal comes to mind – 1Ki 18:26–29; vv36-38]

But God, who speaks and listens is in his holy temple. He stands above and apart from creation. He speaks and the whole world is silent before him in awestruck wonder. How foolish it is to put faith or trust in any creation of my own making. Lord, my hope is in the living, breathing, triune God, who is present and is not silent. He speaks powerfully into the sentry’s life.

Prophet Minstrel: An Ode (v.4)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Never abuse the power of your influence over others (Hab 2:15-17).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The prophet continues his song of taunts; a woeful dirge, v.4. A graphic allegorical lyric depicts Babylon as the host of a drunken, debauched party [drunken debauchery being a Babylonian characteristic]. Her nation neighbors were forced to drink, in a drunken orgy of false promises. Then, as in the parable of “The King With No Clothes,” they were stripped naked of resources, laughed at, mocked and made the fool.*

God says, “Soon it will be your turn, O Babylon, to be disgraced. For the Lord will force you to drink full from his cup of judgment. Your glory will be turned to abject nakedness and shame. You have built towns with wood stripped from the beautiful forests and those towns are filled your murder and terror. Soon it will be you, O Babylon, who is stripped, terrorized and cut down. Your end will come in violent destruction (Pro 24:17,18). The abuse of power and privilege is unconscionable. ”The Lord is in his holy Temple. Let all the earth be silent before him” (2:20).

Lord, may I never abuse my position of influence to torment those within my circle of reach.

_________

* How simple-minded it is to be made to look a fool as the butt of another’s heinous joke. But how much more deranged to be the tormentor of such a fool?

Prophet Minstrel: An Ode (v.3)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Put your hope in the coming glory of Christ (Hab 2:12-14). #HopeInChtist #TheComingKingdom #ChristTheKing

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The prophet sings his song of taunts: a woeful dirge, v.3. Babylonian plunder, pride and perversity stand as witness against her. Murder, bloodshed, and oppression built her cities. Yet they will soon be a pile of ashes at the hands of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. Here the dirge offers signs of hope for the terrorized.

Babylon’s tiny piece of history will dissolve quickly in a sea of God‘s glory that will one day, conquer the nations and cover the earth (Psm 72:19; Isa 11:9). No nation who exists by tyranny, oppression, and bloodshed will be left standing in the coming age of Christ (Mat 24:30,31; 2Th 1:7–10; Rev 19:19–21). ”The Lord is in his holy Temple. Let all the earth be silent before him” (2:20).
‭‭

Lord, the old sentry’s hope is lifted by the promise of God’s coming kingdom and his glory that will cover the earth.

Prophet Minstrel: An Ode (v.2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Bridle any form of intemperance: be humble (Hab 2:9-11). #Repent #TurnNowToGod #Judgment

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The prophet continues his lyrical song of taunts; a woeful dirge, Verse 2 – Here, find we, the lofty haughty heart which seeks to immortalize its own power. Like the eagle, Babylon attempts to build her nest (wealth and palaces) high above earth’s fray. She seeks to make herself impregnable.

But Babylon’s murderous heart is her shame, not her glory. She will be cut off. The stones and timber obtained by dishonest and rapacious cruelty cry out as witness against her. Soon this nation, and any other nation that thrives on cruelty toward others, will itself be cut down. No matter how impregnable she thinks she is. ”The Lord is in his holy Temple. Let all the earth be silent before him” (2:20)

Lord, self-aggrandizement can never be seen as honorable. May my heart humbly bridle any such attitudes and surrender to God‘s glory.

Prophet Minstrel: An Ode (v.1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Show yourself straight, true, and honest with others (Hab 2:6–8). #Repent #TurnNowToGod #Judgment

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Now the prophet writes as God instructed. It is a lyrical song of taunts, sung by the prophet; a woeful dirge. Verse 1 – Babylon had ill gotten gain through merciless intimidation and extortion. She shall not go unpunished. Her debtor nations will rise up as one against her and plunder her.

Babylon, the victimizer will become the victim. She is seen as trembling violently before her oppressors. She will suffer the penalty of her crimes; reap what she had sown (Pro 22:8; Gal 6:7) and so she did. These words may be applied to all the nations at any time. ”The Lord is in his holy Temple. Let all the earth be silent before him” (2:20)

Lord, defrauding comes to my mind. May I never defraud another. If I have, show me, that I might make it right.

Rapacious Evil

May America turn from her godless path and may righteous faith prevail (Hab 2:4,5). #TheJustLiveByFaith #RapaciousEvil #TurnNowToGod #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Habakkuk sits pensively with his spiritual ears open to hear how God will answer his questions (1:2–4). The silence is deafening. Then, into the silence, God begins his woeful dirge of condemnation for Babylon. Her rapacity will not go unpunished; judgment will come.

Babylon (even America) is a nation become arrogant, swollen and puffed up like an old toad. Her passions are only for rapacious evil and unrighteousness. She makes a mockery of all that is morally good. She is a godless, corrupt and perverse nation. She is a drunken nation state with an insatiable appetite to enslave all people to government. Judgment is certain. It is already crouching at the door.

In stark contrast stands God’s righteous ones. “The righteous will live [know abundant life] by their steadfast faith [in Jehovah God].” These words sparkle like a jewel shinning through the darkness from deep within an earthen cavern. These words have given hope to God’s righteous ones through the ions of time, from Habakkuk to the Apostle Paul to Martin Luther and beyond.*

Lord, may a righteous faith prevail from deep within my soul; from deep within the soul of America. .

__________

* The Faith of the Righteous

Rom 1:17

Gal 3:11

Heb 10:38

It Will Come!

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Patiently wait on the trustworthy judgments of God (Hab 2:2,3). #JudgmentWillCome #TrustworthyJudgment

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God speaks to the watchman in the watchtower. He holds nothing back. “Write it down plainly Habakkuk, so that the messenger and the message is clearly understood by those who listen.” God is not like dumb idols crafted by men, who cannot speak – he hears and he answers (v18).

God assures the prophet that the vision of the future will surely come, be fully fulfilled. Though it may seem slow in coming, patiently wait for it. Sin will not go unpunished. The storm clouds of judgment are gathering and will rain down at the appointed time. Lord, waiting while sin and evil abound is hard. But we shall soon see the glory of God‘s righteous judgment. IT WILL COME!!

Deeply Stained Within

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we be deeply moved in waves of contrition and repentance for our own sin & rebellion (Hab 1:6-11). #Repent #TurnNowToGod #America #TheNations

MORNING WATCH NOTES (and extended subscript to the nations):

This is the horrific vision that God gave the prophet, Habakkuk. A pagan nation of cruel violent people (Babylon) will descend on Judah like a blazing relentless desert wind. This godless nation will gobble up other nations as well, having their way with whatever cruelty they wish.

The war horses of Babylon run like the cheetah and are more fierce than ravenous wolves. Their charioteers charge from a far off and swoop down like eagles, picking off and devour their unsuspecting prey. They scoop up captives as they go. No one is safe. They scoff kings & princes; laugh at their fortresses and walls. Then, like the wind, they are gone, leaving behind nothing but a sweltering desolate landscape.

But God tells the prophet, Babylon was not innocent for having been God‘s instrument. NO! They went beyond all restraint to their own destruction. They were deeply guilty and flawed because they viewed their own strength was their God.

Lord, the prayer sentries, the watchmen on the walls, must sit dumbfounded with the prophet and consider what horrific plan lay ahead for Judah. Would God, could God, do such a thing (vv12-16)?

May this Sentry be moved to waves of contrition and repentance for my own deep sin.

________

SUBSCRIPT TO THE NATIONS:

I ask what will be in store for my own great nation (America) and her great allies. Where will pride in our own strength, our arrogant disregard of God and our distain of justice bring us? Is there any nation on earth today that God may be raising up to do to us what Babylon did to Judah and the ancients?

That is not a far fetched question. Consider China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. All of these are mentioned in one way or another in prophecies of these end times.

A local pastor spoke recently and reminded his congregation of how the nations viewed the nation of Israel after her 70 years of captivity in Babylon.

”When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem, it was like a dream! We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” (Psm 126:1-2)

“The other nations were amazed” to see how God had blessed Israel.

There was a day when the nations would have looked upon America and said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” But today that light has grown dim and the nations laugh at us. Mock us. Scorn us. America has left the God of her fathers. May the Lord send sweeping revival across this land like a fast moving prairie fire. May there be an awakening of national one global proportions.

______

Perhaps the prophet Habakkuk and those righteous who were with him, like we today, could find some comfort in the words of Israel’s king, David, the Psalmist:

”But the Lord is in his holy Temple; the Lord still rules from heaven. He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates those who love violence…

[…no matter who: Babylon, China, Russia, Iran; AMERICA, GREAT BRITAIN and others are not without their own history of violence]

“[God] will rain down blazing coals and burning sulfur on the wicked, punishing them with scorching winds.

[If God spared not his own chose people from judgment and correction, how safe are those without God’s covering of mercy and grace?]

[But our] righteous Lord loves justice. The virtuous will see his face.“ (Psm 11:4-7)

________

GOD PROMISES TO SHOW HIS FACE TO THOSE WHO ARE HIS RIGHTEOUS ONES, WHO CHOOSE VIRTUE