God In Our Conscience

Trust fully in God‘s judgment of all evil works (Isa 34:1-4). #GodWillJudge BelieveGodsPromises https://www.bible.com/116/isa.34.1-4.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In the closing days of Israel and Judah‘s national lives the prophet Isaiah dominates their collective conscience. But he speaks also into the conscience of other nations as well. These nations, though used by God to discipline his people, are caught up in the evil of their own ends. There is nothing righteous about them.

God’s message, through Isaiah, to the nations of the earth is certain judgment for their hostile and pagan attitude toward God. Isaiah’s prophecies were all fulfilled. “Let God be found true and every man be found a liar“ (Rom 3:4). Lord, you are certain to carry out every word of prophetic judgment against all evil in this world.

“Chopped” Pt2: America In Crisis

Engage life with a surrendered heart to God (2Ki 17:13-15). #Judgment #TurnToGod https://www.bible.com/116/2ki.17.13-15.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In a popular Food Network show, chefs compete to be the “Chopped Champion.“ Every round ends with a critique (judgment) of their food. One chef is eliminated. A judge explains the critique to the chef and says, “For these reasons, we had to chop you.“

In 2 Kings 17, God explains his reasons for judgment. They are Israel’s flagrant idolatry, obstinate disobedience and her rejection of God. She had sold her soul to worship of the stars (astrology), child sacrifice and other occult practices. “For these reasons,“ the cleaver of God‘s judgment had fallen on Israel.

Is America facing elimination? Why would she? The answer: she has forgotten/left behind the foundational principles and Biblical values upon which she was built. For this she will pay a heavy price. Like Israel and Judah of old, she will find herself in a “captivity” of her own making. She will find herself in perilous times. She will find herself dealing with the God who loves her and set her apart as exceptional.

America, my beloved nation, is in a moral melee. Her moral clarity is on the chopping block. The cleaver of God‘s judgment is certain to fall. She has leapt over the precipice of moral restraint and is in a free fall of decadent behavior.

What kind of behavior? The killing of innocent babies in the womb. Rampant immoral sexual behavior and homosexuality that is now the “new normal.” Violence in our streets. Public shootings – malls, schools, theaters and homes. Widespread use of drugs and alcohol. Politicians and other leaders ignore the people, lie, cover up their misdeeds and participate in all manner of ugly and shameless partisan vitriol…and so much more.

Further more, God has been rejected by the avant-garde. They wish to remove all traces of God from schools, government, and the marketplace. The church and Christianity has been pushed to the margins of the culture, ignored as an influence in public discourse, mocked and ridiculed as extreme. Soft persecution is here. A rise of more intense persecution may be expected.

God did not make a mistake when ordaining America as a light, a beacon of freedom and liberty against the tyranny of kings and dictators. I believe that America may expect God to orchestrate all of our circumstances (good and bad) in His providence in order to bring her back to faith in Him.

All of our hope is in Him. As a sentry on the wall of intercession it is my duty to earnestly pray and sound a clear warning. I pray for a repentant America and that God will raise up young leaders and Americans that love him and love this country.

“Chopped” Pt1; A Choice To Make

Heed God’s warnings and repent [turn around] (2Ki 17:22,23). #Judgment #TurnToGod https://www.bible.com/116/2ki.17.22-23.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God does the same with Israel. She had been warned (v13). God then explains that she has been flagrantly idolatrous (vv9,10,15,16), obstinately disobedient (vv12,15,16) and rejected God (v14,15). She had sold her soul to worship of the stars (astrology), child sacrifice and other occult practices (v17). “For these reasons,“ (v18) the cleaver of God‘s judgment had fallen on them.

Lord, may the heart of this sentry remain sensitive to your Spirit. May I listen to your warnings, change quickly and alert others clearly.

God’s Love Is Tough Love

Remember that God will discipline those he loves (2Kg 18:9-12). #ToughLove https://www.bible.com/116/2ki.18.9-12.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

During the days of King Hezekiah in Judah, Isaiah the prophet is active in his role as conscience of the nation. We are reminded of this in 2Ch 32:20–22, when Isaiah stands with Hezekiah in prayer against the oncoming Asyrian armies. God fights and wins that battle for Judah.

But in the northern kingdom of Israel, Assyria has already lead them into captivity. It happened to King Hoshea in the sixth year of Hezekiah‘s reign. Why? Because of their gross rejection of the covenant with the Lord their God. The Assyrians were used by God to bring judgment on his people. Isaiah will have more to say about this. Lord, your sentry would be lost without your loving discipline.

Exposed

Be wise to the Satan’s strategy and rely on God (2Ch 32:10-15; Jas 4:7,8). #SatanIsALiar #GodSpeaksTruth https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.32.10-11,15.nlt https://www.bible.com/116/jas.4.7-8.nlt

MORNING WATCH:

When king Sennacherib of Assyria showed up to conquer Jerusalem he employed the very same tactic Satan uses to defeat us – DOUBT! In Genesis 3:1-4, Satan casts doubt on God‘s word. “Surely God hath not said…” Here, the Assyrian enemy casts DOUBT on the word of a godly king. “Surely the king has misled you…” EXPOSED!

From DOUBT comes all manner of defiance, discouragement and defeat. How do we win the great battles against Satan? James 4:7,8 tells us to 1) Rely humbly on God, 2) Resist Satan (he will flee) and 3) Rest, draw near to God, who will come quickly to your aid. Lord, may this sentry recognize when he’s under attack by the enemy. Then rely, resist and rest in God.

One Assault, One Angel

Prayerful Preparation Produces Powerful Possibilities (2Ch 32:20–22). #OneAngel #LordOfHeavensArmies #PrayerPreparation https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.32.20-22.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

There is a saying in Texas – “One Riot, One Ranger.” Heaven also has a saying, “One Assault, One Angel.”

The fierce fighting monarch, King Sennacherib of Assyria, showed up in full battle array to assault Jerusalem’s gates. He sent messages taunting King Hezekiah and the citizens of the city (vv10–19). He mocked and derided Jehovah God.

Although smaller in numbers the people of Jerusalem were prayed up, prepared and putting faith in God (vv1-8). Hezekiah and the prophet Isaiah cried out to the God of heaven. God sent ONE ANGEL and destroyed the whole Assyrian army. Sennacherib went home in disgrace, never to be heard from again – he was killed in the temple of his god, by his own sons. Lord, this one lone sentry has reason to prayerfully expect you to do great things in any given day.

Mighty Fortress

Pray much, plan well, work smart, TRUST GOD (2Ch 32:1-8). #GodIsGreater #TrustGod https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.32.5-8.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

King Hezekiah of Judah was faced with insurmountable odds by the Assyrian Army. We already know Hezekiah is a man of prayer and strategic action (chapters 29-31). So with wise counsel he devises a carefully thought out plan of no small consequence (vv1–3). Then he communicates his plan and methodically carries it out (vv4,5).

Finally, he calls all the people together and points them to the only One who can save them. “Be strong, don’t be afraid – there is more with us then with them – we have the Lord our God on our side.” My take away from this is to pray much, plan well, work smart and TRUST GOD throughout the process. Father, you are the Mighty Fortress of my life. In you I stand as a watchman. “Greater is he that is in me than he that is in the world” (1Jhn 4:4).

Who Is Useable To God?

Make yourself useable in God’s hands (2Ch 31:20,21). #UseableToGod https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.31.20-21.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

A careful reading of Second Chronicles, Chapters 29, 30 and 31 would reveal three characteristics of the person that God uses and honors with success. In Chapter 29, King Hezekiah shows himself as a godly and principled man. In Chapter 30 he shows he is not afraid to call out sin with a view toward God’s loving mercy. In Chapter 31 he shows obedience in following God with a whole heart.

King Hezekiah of Judah challenges me to be a man who God uses, with my associates, my friends and my family – principled in life, fearless for good and wholehearted for God. It calls to mind Micah 6:8 – He has told you, O man, what is good and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God. Lord, make of this watchful sentry a man that is usable to you.

Revival & Awakening Changes Ev’thing

May our hearts be changed and turned toward God (2Ch 31:1-6). #Revival #Awakening https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.31.1-6.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Revival, awakening, under Hezekiah had long lasting effects. Those who had been touched by revival were RADICALLY CHANGED. The hearts of these people were refocused on purity and righteousness. Altars to pagan gods all over the land of Judah and Israel were torn down. There was an outpouring of generosity and giving toward the work and ministries of God. Such is the work of God in revival and awakening.

The same can happen in America. It has before, in the Great Awakenings of the 1700s & 1800s. Sweeping moral and ethical changes in society took place. Lying, cheating and corruption in business and government ceased. Bars and brothels were shut down. A new and benevolent generosity occurred. People gave with abundant joy to the work of God in the world. Great mission organizations were founded. Many new ministries were begun. The work of evangelism was renewed and expanded. There was a renewed hunger for the word of God and worship. it can happen again. It must!

Lord Jesus, the broken heart of this aged sentry is in need of an out-pouring of your Spirit. My beloved nation, America, is in desperate need of such a touch of your Spirit. Renew us Lord.

“Revival Held Over”

Believe God will do far beyond what we ask or think (2Ch 30:23,25–27). #GreatExpectations #BelieveGod https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.30.23,25-27.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When a godly leader (King Hezekiah) followed God‘s leadership, went against conventional wisdom, good things happened. He called the people to return to God (v6). After a week long celebration of God‘s redemption (revival) the people decided to EXTEND THE CELEBRATION another week.

There was great purification from sin, people and priests were getting right with God. The revival exceeded anything ever seen before. In the end, God made good on the promise of 2Ch 7:14. Healing was on the way. God heard their prayer from heaven (v 27). Lord, turning my sentinel’s heart to you, I am prepared for you to exceed all my expectations (Eph 3:20).

Getting Our House In Order

Confess sin daily; stay pure before God (2Ch 30:21-25). #ConfessSin https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.30.21-22,25.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Foreigners in Jerusalem and the nations of Judah and Israel repented of sin, returned to God. God showed up in revival. For “seven days” they celebrated the “Festival Of Unleavened Bread” (FOUB), a remembrance of the deliverance of God’s people out of Egypt. The Israelites were told (Exo 12) to make unleavened bread (flour and water) in preparation to be delivered hastily from Egypt (symbol of bondage and sin). Seven days equals the distance between Egypt and the Red Sea (symbol of deliverance).

Leavened bread is symbolic of sin. Just a little, over time, will affect the whole loaf. Unleavened bread is a symbol of purity, sincerity and truth (2Co 5:7,8). In short, the FOUB is a joyous celebration of redemption from the bondage of sin. It is about getting my house in order; ridding my life of sin. Lord, I am in daily need of cleansing from sins that beset me (1Jn 1:9). Lord, America will perish in sin without revival, confession of sin.

Human Need Trumps Ritual

Will you have a repentant heart toward God? (2Ch 30:17-20). #Repent #SurrenderedHeart https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.30.17-20.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The people sincerely and joyfully responded to King Hezekiah’s call to repentance, cleansing and return to God. They gathered from all over the land, in the capital city, Jerusalem, for Passover. It all happened so quickly that the people had not properly prepared, been physically cleansed, to take a Passover meal. So Hezekiah interceded for the people, asking God to waive the ritual requirement of cleansing. God heard his prayer. He forgave and healed them.

God will always set aside the rules for the relationship. God is not as concerned with sacrifice as he is with sincere surrender and devotion. Genuine repentance will always be preferred over rites and rituals. What I do outwardly is never more important than who I am inwardly.

Lord this sentry stands condemned by the law. Were it not for Christ, I would be hopelessly lost in my sin and without remedy before you. I humbly repent. I know you will heal and forgive

Keep On Going

Don’t be discouraged by those who reject the Good News of Jesus (2Ch 30:10-13) #GoTell #KeepOnGoing #ComeToJesus https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.30.10-13.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

At the early signs of revival, good King Hezekiah sent runners throughout the land of Judah and Israel calling the people to return to God (6-9). Israel was already suffering judgment and in the grip of Asyria. Not everyone heeded the call. The runners were scorned, mocked and rejected. Still, they were obedient to go.

But, there were those few who humbled themselves and received the king’s invitation to come. It is the same today. The invitation goes out, believe on Jesus and enter into the kingdom of God. Many will mock the witnesses for Christ. But, some humbly receive the message.* We keep on going. the Lord is with us** Lord, give this sentry the courage to sound the alarm (Ezk 33:3,4).

* “You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it. (Mat 7:13,14 – NLT)

** “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Mat 28:19,20 – NLT)

Share The Light Of Christ

Reflect the warmth and the light of Christ in you to others (2Ch 30:1,6,8,9). #LetItShine https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.30.1,6,8-9.nlt

Photo by friend Bob Crocker, New Foundland

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When God turns on the light of revival, when he pours out his Spirit on his people, that light within becomes brighter, warmer. There is a supernatural inclination to want to share that light. Just so, we see that good King Hezekiah was compelled to send runners throughout all of Judah, even to the brothers in the northern tribes of Israel. “Come, let’s us once again worship, celebrate renewal and give thanks to the Lord.”

Renewed joy and expectations were at an all-time high. God was speaking into the life of Judah. O, that God would speak new life into our lives today. Lord increase the light, increase the warmth, that America would know revival and awakening. Jesus said, “And I, when I am lifted up, will draw all people to myself.” (John 12:32 – NIV)

Lord, may the light within the sentry burn brightly and warmly, drawing others to you.

“Lord, Do It Again“

Trust God for days of revival & awakening ahead (2Ch 30:1,6,9) #Awakening #Revival https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.30.1,6,9.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The closest thing that I’ve ever seen to spiritual awakening in my lifetime was the “Jesus Movement” in the 1970s. My heart longs, times without end, to see a movement like that (and better) once again in America. That awakening/revival came out of the tumultuous decade of the 1960s. Who’da thought?

Revival in the era of King Hezekiah of Judah came out of turbulent times under his father, King Ahaz. Under Hezekiah’s leadership the nation of Judah turned back to God. Repentance and renewal led to “times of refreshing from the very presence of the Lord” as described in Acts 3:20. The 20teens have been turbulent times. Could revival/awakening be just around the corner? My prayer in the morning watches is, “Lord, do it again.”

The Greatest Sacrifice Of Men

Seek for genuine repentance, consecration and worship toward God (2Ch 29:35,36). #Repentance #consecration #revival #awakening https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.29.35-36.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Sacrifice, to be meaningful to God, must be preceded by sincere repentance and consecration (Psm 51:17; Pro 21:3; 1Sa 15:22). King Hezekiah led the priests, Levites (temple servants) city leaders and people to turn from their sin (repentance). Then he led them to set themselves apart for God‘s purposes (consecration).

Finally, came the offering (sacrifice) to God, to present a token of thanksgiving to God for atonement of sin (today, reconciliation through Christ to God). For Hezekiah (for all of us today) this results in an abundance of sacrifice; much joy, praise and worship. There is no greater sacrifice than that of a humble broken heart toward God and subsequently toward others. Lord, the prayer of this sentry is that men would find themselves right with you and with each other.

When Leaders Repent

WITH POST SCRIPT ADDED**

Consecrate yourself to God; worship & praise him (2Ch 29:20,24,27-30)#DedicatedToGod #PraiseTheLord #WorshipThe Lord https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.29.20,24,27-30.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Sixteen days after the Lord’s Temple was re-opened it had been cleansed of every defiled object (inside and out). The very next morning King Hezekiah had priests and Levites in their positions. Every city official was summonsed to be in the Temple. King Hezekiah himself led the procession.

Burnt offerings and sin offerings were made, consecrating the whole throng of leaders to God. Then there was a “joyous“ sound of praise and worship. The entire assembly sang, played instruments and read Psalms. They worshipped. How could the scene of repentance of leadership possibly be described? Only experienced. Lord, may our leaders (I myself) know such a repentance.

** I am encouraged to write the following Post Script: Eight hours after this post was published I heard Vice President Mike Pence speak to The Family Leader Foundation in Des Moines, Iowa. He spoke of a night in the 1970s when he, as a nineteen year old young man, gave his life to Christ. He told the audience that there are times when we feel God has abandoned us and is no longer working. But, he said, God is always working. We ought never give up, continue in faith and in prayers. He called the nation to, “humble themselves, and pray and seek God’s face, and turn from their wicked ways, then God will hear [as he always does] from heaven, and will forgive [our] sin and heal [our] land.” This is what it looks like when godly leaders call for and lead a nation to repent.

When God Cleans House

Open your heart to the cleansing work of God’s Spirit (2Ch 29:15-17) #Revival #SpiritualAwakening #Repentance #SurrenderToGod https://www.bible.com/116/2ch.29.15-17.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When God sends revival he moves the hearts of those he will use to begin to purify, clean out, their own hearts. He calls them to rid their hearts of anything standing between them and God. Like pride, self importance, jealousy, envy and lust; taking God (his blessings) for granted, selfishly consuming personal pleasures and insensitivity to the needs of others, et al.

When revival comes, God calls those who lead to make him the priority in lifestyle and in worship. God calls them to clear the temple of their own hearts of all that defiles and rivals him. He calls them to make ready the way for others to come. Lord, cleanse the heart of this sentry, that I may not be a hindrance to revival.

Is Revival, Awakening Happening?

Be prepared for God to release you in his service (2Ch 29:3–5,10-12). #Revival #SpiritualAwakening https:www.bible.com116/2ch.29.3-5,10-12.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I may not know all the ways of God in the onset of revival or spiritual awakening, but I can see clues from God’s word. God used King Hezekiah in Judah to implement a fresh wind of revival. Through Hezekiah God released the Levites (his godly servants) to purify themselves and the temple. Then to perform the ministry they had previously been denied.

Today there seems to be a growing alertness in the people of God. There is a man in leadership who, though not perfect, is a friend toward God. Hostility towards him, the increase of darkness and violence in our society, may be a clue that God is moving in our midst.

Lord, intensify this sentry’s alertness and prayer for those who minister before you daily, who lead in the cleansing of our national sins.

Lord, “Make Good Trouble” In America

U.S. Representative John R. Lewis (1940-2020) was a civil rights activist who worked with Martin Luther King, Jr. He was of the habit of telling folks, “Make Good Trouble.” The purpose of making good trouble was to bring about positive change. It is clear to me that God makes good trouble himself. The reason God makes good trouble is to bring about change in the human soul. I pray that God would “Make Good Trouble” in the soul of Americans today.

“Your righteousness, O God, is very high, You who have done great things; O God, who is like You? You, who have shown [us] great and severe troubles,shall revive [us] again, and bring [us] up again from the depths of the earth. You shall increase [our] greatness, and comfort [us] on every side.” – Psalm 71:19-21

LORD, WOULD YOU TROUBLE THE HEARTS OF AMERICANS

Lord, would you trouble the hearts of church members and pastors

Would you trouble the hearts of our leaders

Would you trouble the heart of our President toward God

Would you trouble the hearts of Congressmen and women

Would you trouble hearts of the Presidential Cabinet members

Would you trouble the hearts of our Supreme Court justices

LORD, WOULD YOU TROUBLE THE HEARTS OF AMERICANS

Lord, would you trouble the hearts of our Governor and Lieutenant Governor

Would you trouble the hearts of our state legislators and it’s courts

“O Lord, do not rebuke [us] in Your anger, Nor chasten [us] in Your hot displeasure. Have mercy on [us], O Lord, for [we are] weak; O Lord, heal [us], for our bones are troubled. [Our] soul also is greatly troubled; [How long], O Lord —[until you restore [us]?” – Psalm 6:1-3

LORD, WOULD YOU TROUBLE THE HEARTS OF AMERICANS

Lord, would you trouble the hearts of our County Sheriff and deputy staff

Would you trouble the hearts of our County Commissioners

Would you trouble the hearts of our city’s Mayor and Council

Would you trouble the hearts of our School Board members and Superintendent

LORD, WOULD YOU TROUBLE THE HEARTS OF AMERICANS

Lord, would you trouble the hearts of my neighbors

Would you trouble the hearts in MY HOME

“They wandered in the wilderness in a desolate way; They found no city to dwell in. Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, And He delivered them out of their distresses. Oh, that men would give thanks to the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.” – Psalm 107:4-6,8-9

LORD, WOULD YOU TROUBLE THE HEARTS OF AMERICANS

Lord, may my heart be troubled for the soul of America

May my heart also be troubled toward you

LORD, WOULD YOU TROUBLE THE HEARTS OF AMERICANS

Lord I pray this great country might find her way back to you again.

I pray that she would open up her heart again to you.

May she once again know the goodness and mercies of a loving God.

May she enjoy once again your protections, your resources and your wisdom.

Lord, would you turn her heart back to the God who brought her here.

I ask Lord Jesus that you would put down the rebellion of her soul toward the God of our fathers.

“Turn Yourself to [us], and have mercy on [us O Lord], for [we are] desolate and afflicted. The troubles of [our] hearts have enlarged; Bring [us]out of [our] distresses! Look on [our] affliction and [our] pain, and forgive all [our] sins.” – Psalm 25:16-18

LORD, WOULD YOU TROUBLE THE HEARTS OF AMERICANS

MAY WE, ONE BY ONE, CRY OUT TOWARD YOU;

MAY WE KNOW YOUR DELIVERANCE;

MAY WE OFFER THANKS TO YOU;

SATISFY THE LONGING OF

OF OUR SOUL; AND

FILL US UP WITH

GOODNESS

Be The Light In Darkness

Allow God to use you to point people to the light of Christ (2Ch 29:3–5,10,11). #Revival #SpiritualAwakening https://www.bible.com/1588/2ch.29.3-5,10-11.amp

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Hezekiah, son of wicked king Ahaz, becomes the king of Judah. He was a man the polar opposite of his father. The first thing he did was to re-open the temple. He called a meeting of the priests and Levites. He tells them to purify themselves and clean the temple out of all impure things.

Out of the darkest of times revival was on the way. The priests and Levites begin again to minister before the Lord and to lead the people to worship God once again. Lord, would you give us a leader in our nation who will call us back to you. Lord, may I be used to bring light into dark places.

Seek God Out As Friend & Ally

Do not reject God; it will not go well for you (2Ch 28:16-25). #Contemptuous #NoHonor https://www.bible.com/1588/2ch.28.16-25.amp

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Following the losses to Israel and Syria (Aram), Judah’s king Ahaz still rejected God. The Lord continued to humble Judah because of Ahaz. The small land of Edom invaded Judah and took captives. The Philistines invaded in the south and took land belonging to Judah. Instead of calling on God for help, Ahaz still rejected God; held God in contempt.

Ahaz tried to appease Assyria for help. He robbed the temple, the royal palace and the homes of his officials to buy off Assyria. But that did not work. He closed the temple and set up shrines to pagan gods. All of this led to his ruin. God’s anger was aroused at the abject wickedness of this king.

Lord, in the morning watches I shall seek you as friend and ally. I ask that my beloved country and its leaders seek you as friend and ally.

Obed! Right Man, Right Time, Right Message

A 2020 Call for men and women with the “Obed Factor”

Today angry mobs are in the streets, rioting over certain injustices committed. But they go to far. Destruction of their very own countrymen robs the moment and the movement of its important significance. We cannot be a nation of lawlessness. We also cannot be a nation without humane recourse. But mob rule, mob justice, will not govern by either.

We read in 2 Chronicles 28 that the Lord was not pleased with Ahaz, king of the southern Israelite nation of Judah (vv1-4). Because of the heinous sins of Ahaz God used an alliance between Syria (Aram) and Israel to bring remedial judgment on Ahaz and Judah. Israel of course was the rival northern Israelite nation bordering Judah. The nation of Israel was more than happy to join in the fight against Judah. [The prophet Isaiah offered a way out for Ahaz, if he would but call upon God for deliverance. But Ahaz rejected Isaiah’s words of counsel – Isa 7:1-12]

The result was that Israel slaughtered 120,000 warriors of Judah, took 200,000 women and children captive, intending to make slaves of them and seized enormous amounts of plunder. But this victory went too far as they were indulging their own lust for superiority. So when they returned to the capital city of Samaria the prophet Obed met them. This is the only place we read of this particular prophet. Few would recognize his name.

Listen to these words of Obed (vv9-11):

“The Lord, the God of your ancestors, was angry with Judah and let you defeat them. But you have gone too far, killing them without mercy, and all heaven is disturbed. And now you are planning to make slaves of these people from Judah and Jerusalem. What about your own sins against the Lord your God? Listen to me and return these prisoners you have taken, for they are your own relatives. Watch out, because now the Lord’s fierce anger has been turned against you!” (NLT)

We have seen angry and arrogant mobs are in the streets of our cities rioting over certain injustices committed. They are right to protest injustice. In America we have the right to peacefully protest. But, like Israel, these mobs go too far. They kill, hurt and maim their own countrymen. They destroy, lute and burn the businesses of their own countrymen. They ignore the rule of law and put the lives of all their own countrymen in danger. We cannot be a nation of lawlessness. We also cannot be a nation without humane recourse. But mob rule, mob justice, will not govern by either.

What is the “Obed Factor”?

#AgentOfCompassion

Who is this Obed? The name Obed means, “servant; worshipper.” Obed was a man of God, a servant and worshipper of God. “His prophecy [is merely] an argument [for] brotherly kindness and affection, and yet few men have ever rendered a nobler service to their fellow men than that recorded of him.”– The Biblical Illustrator. Obed goes alone with no one to stand with him. He faces the prospect of ridicule and mocking. There is no hint of fame for him but only to forgo the further harm and desecration of Judah, their Israelite brothers.

He goes alone but in the background there are four other men of conscience. Perhaps there are many others, but they are afraid to speak (much like our day today). Yet, four men are named in Scripture who cut across the grain of the moment. They come forward to stand with Obed. I will name them here because Scripture does so (v12). Their fathers are also named. All this reminds me of the sacred trust I have for my sons and daughters and that speaking up for what is right, just and good is worthy of recognition. They are, “Azariah son of Jehohanan, Berekiah son of Meshillemoth, Jehizkiah son of Shallum, and Amasa son of Hadlai.”

The end result was that the prisoners were released. The four men mentioned were the ones who came forward to lead out in the distribution of clothes from the plunder to the naked prisoners. They gave the prisoners sandals to wear, food to eat and dressed their wounds. The prisoners were taken and returned to their own people in Judah. Lives and honor were saved that day.

The“Obed Factor” is the comportment of an individual or group of individuals who have a vital relationship with God and the presence of mind to speak clearly and take action for God when called upon by his Spirit. The Obed voice is that voice in our country and in our communities that speaks out in humanitarian mercy for God and the good of all. #AgentOfCompassion

Where are the Obeds Among Us?

As I look over the landscape of 2020 I ask the question, “Where are the Obeds among us?”

Who among us in 2020 has the Obed courage of his/her convictions? Who among us in 2020 can and will take some Obed action to curb the base instincts of man? Who among us in 2020 has the presence of mind to speak, not in hot-blooded condescension, but in a calm, clear Obed voice, speak nobly?

OBED: Kentucky Attorney General, Daniel Cameron, is an Obed in our midst. He shows courage in the hour of difficulty. He said this on September 23, 2020,

“..If we simply act on emotion or outrage there is no justice. Mob justice is not justice. Justice sought by violence is not justice. It just becomes revenge. In our system, criminal justice isn’t a quest for revenge. It is a quest for truth, evidence and facts and the use of that truth as we fairly apply laws. Our reaction to the truth is what kind of society we want to be. Do we really want the truth or a truth it fits our narrative? Do we want the facts or accept our own version of events? We, as a community, must make this decision.”

OBED: Minister, Rev. Franklin Graham, is an Obed in our midst. He shows courage in the hard times. He will lead a prayer vigil through the Washington D.C. National Mall, Saturday, September 26, 2020. The vigil and walk will start at 12:00 noon (EST). You can watch the prayer vigil on live stream, hosted by Mike Huckabee & Cissis Graham Lynch.

LINK PROVIDED HERE:

https://prayermarch2020.com/live/?utm_source=bgeatoday+09.23.2020&utm_medium=bgemail&utm_campaign=bgemailnewsletter&utm_content=BY209EN2A&SOURCE=BY209EN2A#signup

BE ABOUT THE SENTINEL ORDERS:

I cannot attend prayer vigil in person but I intend to watch the live feed and spend time on Saturday, Sep 26, in fasting and prayer for our country, its leaders and its cities. Lord, may this sentry be an Obed voice, an Obed spirit, and have the heart of an Obed on behalf of my beloved country and the community in which I live.

The Obed Factor

Be a voice of mercy for God in your community (2Ch 28:9-15). #MobJusticeIsNoJustice #AgentOfCompassion https://www.bible.com/1588/2ch.28.9-15.amp

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Judah, for her sin, and for the godless, even heinous sin of her king, Ahaz, were suffering under the hand of God. Their severe judgment came in large measure at the hand of their own rival countrymen, Israel. But Israel’s victory went too far. She mercilessly slaughtered thousands and intended to make slaves out of thousands more taken captive.

BUT, a man of God, a prophet, Obed, mentioned only here in these few verses, stands alone in a crowded mob who are arrogantly celebrating a bloody victory. His cry is for Israel to consider her own sin. Might God now turn his anger on Isreael? His call is for the humanitarian treatment and return of thousands of prisoners of their own national heritage, to Judah.

Would Obed be shouted down, silenced, “canceled”? Or would he be recognized and his voice be heard? Four leaders in their community courageously stood with Obed’s noble course of action. Lives and honor were saved. O Lord, would that this sentry have the same courage to stand up and speak for what is right, just and fair.

No Time To Reject God

To ignore and reject God is to bring certain disaster (2Ch 28:5–8). #Broken #ReturnToGod https://www.bible.com/1588/2ch.28.5-8.amp

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

So ungodly King Ahaz (vv1-4) of Judah (Southern Kingdom) rejected Isaiah‘s counsel to ask God for a sign (Isa 7:1-13). He was faced with an impending battle with Israel (Northern Kingdom) and Aram, a pagan nation. Ahaz, instead of listening to the counsel of Isaiah and calling upon God, decided to align Judah with the godless nation of Assyria.

The result was devastating. 120,000 experienced warriors were slaughtered; 200,000 women and children were taken captive. Many more were exiled to a foreign country. All of this took place because Ahaz arrogantly refused to trust God in his crisis (Isa 7:12). Lord, may I (my country) always have the faith to trust you in every battle.

What of America? Ravaged by sickness and death in a pandemic; torn apart by godless behavior in the streets; beaten down by the economic reversals; made weary by hurricanes and wildfires. Will she turn back to God? What say you, America?

If the sentry sounds the alarm and good men do nothing, what will the end be?

Sentry Alert: Read, Pray, Act

A Post By Friend, Duncan Brannon 9/5/2020

Summary Point: Read the Scripture. Learn the platforms. Watch the policies. [Pray for wisdom]. Vote there. As Christ-followers we will never find ourselves on the wrong side of Scripture, which is where we will all be judged.

[Democrat v. Republican Platforms & Policies] As a Christian, I don’t vote for people or parties. I vote for platforms and policies most closely aligning with the teaching of Scripture.

The party platform tells me what a person believes in relation to the Scripture. The policy is the execution (or not) of that platform, telling me what that person ultimately believes in relation to the Scripture.

If a person says [he/she] supports a platform but doesn’t execute it in policy, I stop voting for that person. People lie. Parties lie. Platforms can lie. But policy always tells you the truth.

Read the Scripture. Learn the platforms. Watch the policies. [Pray for wisdom]. Vote there. As Christ-followers we will never find ourselves on the wrong side of Scripture, which is where we will all be judged.

2020 Republican Platform [Resolved to maintain 2016 Platform]
https://prod-cdn-static.gop.com/media/documents/RESOLUTION_REGARDING_THE_REPUBLICAN_PARTY_PLATFORM.pdf?_ga=2.109560193.504857691.1598219603-2087748323.1598219603

2020 Democrat Platform
https://www.demconvention.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-07-31-Democratic-Party-Platform-For-Distribution.pdf

Personal Cathedral of Praise

Come, seek that place of personal praise to the Lord for all he has done (Rom 16:25-27) #AllPraiseBeToGod https://www.bible.com/97/rom.16.25-27.msg

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Reading Paul’s final words in the Romans epistle causes me to pause and reflect on my many weeks of journaling through this letter. H.C.G. Moule* suggests that these final words were written by Paul’s own hand as he sat quietly before the manuscripts. Imagine Paul sitting in silence, as all of his associates, friends, have for the moment, left him alone.

Perhaps Paul retraces the themes of this letter once more. Inspired again, he takes pen in hand. Then, with dim eyes and intensity in his soul, he inscribes a most wonderful closing hymn of praise to God. We leave Paul here, in his personal cathedral of praise to the Lord. I too, sit quietly in worship before this same Lord.

*Epistle To The Romans, “The Expositor’s Bible”

Faith Unhindered

Be enriched, fortified and undiluted in your faith (Rom 16:17-20). #UndilutedFaith

https://www.bible.com/116/rom.16.17-20.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Like many a good parent or mentor, Paul makes one more plea to Christians in Rome, (and to me by extension). I should be alert to false teachers who cause division in the church. Such people serve only themselves and not God. They are deceivers.

Paul challenges believers to be wise and use good judgment, not to be weakened or diluted in their faith. He challenges me to be pure and unstained by ungodly thinking. And I should know this…Satan and his hoards will be crushed soon enough by the God of peace. I will know the grace and unmerited favor of God forevermore.

As a dutiful sentry I can be assured of the deftness of my commanding officer, Jesus.

A “Galaxy of Saints”

Reflect on those great lights God has used to influence you (Rom 16:1-16). #ChristianInfluence https://www.bible.com/116/rom.16.7.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Paul closes his letter to the Romans with a long list of folks whom he deeply respected, loved and appreciated. Romans 16:7 is representative. There are too many to list here, but they have been called a “Galaxy of Saints” (Griffith Thomas). Paul mentions attributes of each.

My take away causes me to reflect on the “Galaxy of Saints” who have been instrumental in my life. Pastors, mentors, fellow laborers in prison ministry, close friends in Christ, parents and my dear wife. What an array. Indeed a galaxy of saints for whom I give thanks to the Lord. They are treasures more precious than gold.

In the quiet of the night watches a thoughtful sentry might reflect on those great lights who have influenced his/her life.

Simper Gumby*

Prayerfully plan, but trust God in the journey (Rom 15:32). #JourneyOfALifetime https://www.bible.com/116/rom.15.32.nlt

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Some of Paul’s closing words to the Christians in Rome are, “I am eager to visit you, to enjoy your fellowship“ (v23,24). But first he must go to Jerusalem. Paul’s final prayer request is that he be “rescued from unbelieving Jews” there. Then, “BY THE WILL OF GOD,” he would go to Rome with a “JOYFUL” heart to rest and enjoy time with them.

Paul expects one thing. But God works according to his own will and purposes. In Jerusalem, resentful Pharisees incite a riot against Paul (Acts 21:27,30). This leads to his arrest and appeal to Cesar. Ultimately Paul’s trip to Rome became reality, but as a prisoner in chains. Paul’s response? “I am [JOYFULLY] willing even to die for the sake of Christ” (Acts 21:13). Lord, keep me joyfully flexible along the path of the journey.

This sentry’s prayer may be limited by perspective, but it’s unlimited by God’s eternal scope.

Always Flexible (Pro 16:9)