Can’t Run, Can’t Hide

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:  

Remain humble and open to God’s conviction (Ezk 11:1-12). #Can’tRunCan’tHide #RemainOpenToGod 

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The leaders of Jerusalem were leading God‘s people away from God. They believed that they were insulated from further Babylonian attacks (our city is like an iron pot; we the people are like meat safe in the pot). Neither the leaders, nor the people of Israel would acknowledge their sin. 

Arrogance, pride, worship of pagan gods, ignoring God‘s word and his warnings was a recipe for failure and God‘s judgment/discipline. It was for Israel then and it is for us today. God put his finger directly on their faulty thinking – he knows our thoughts. Hiding from God is futile. Lord, keep the heart of this ol’ sentry from arrogance and pride.

National Disgrace 

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:  

Be wise to any idol infiltrating your life (Ezk 8:5-17). #SinsOfANation #NationalDisgrace 

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In Ezekiel‘s vision where he observed detestable sin in worship in the Temple of Jerusalem, he saw four gross scenes. Versus 3-6 describes what was likely an Asherah pole (fertility, phallic symbol); a Babylonian idol in God‘s Temple. 

Versus 6-13 describes a scene in the inner court of the Temple. 70 Elders (prescribed by God in Numbers 11:16,17) stood worshipping before walls engraved with grotesque, crawling animals and detestable creatures. 

Verses 13-16 pictured people worshipping the natural world and leaders of the nation, backs turned to God, facing the sun and bowing down in worship. The whole nation was led by its leaders into disgraceful national sin. 

The sins of the leaders turning from God will infect the people of any nation (Pro 29:2; 16:12; Isa 5:20I pray for our people and our leaders 1Ti 2:1,2). Lord lead me away from any idol that seeks to control in my life.

The Worst of Times 

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:  

Walk in close fellowship/harmony with God (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭7‬:‭23-27‬). #Repent#WalkWithGod #HonorGodForLife #WorstOfTimes 

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This may be one of the saddest passages concerning God‘s wayward people in the Bible. Their crimes against others and against God will bring the vengeance of God.  It will come at the hand of other ruthless nations.

Their fortress walls will be broken down, homes luted, sanctuaries defiled. They will look for peace and not find it. 

There will be no vision or message from prophets or priests; no counsel from leaders. King and prince will stand helpless. The people will tremble in fear.

It is the worst of times. When I examine my own wayward heart it is not hard to imagine how quickly I might fall myself. Lord, may this old sentry always be in close fellowship with you. 

Too little, Too Late

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:  

May your heart put faith in God alone (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭7‬:‭14-18‬). #TimeIsUp #Repent#TrustInGodAlone #TooLittleTooLate 

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When the hammer of God‘s justice comes down, there will be no military might that can stave off the destruction. Here we see that God‘s judgment on Israel is manifested in the death of those in towns outside Jerusalem‘s walls. Inside the walls, famine and disease is a double edge sword. 

Those who do escape will weep and mourn for their sin. Repentance will come…too little, too late to save their beautiful culture. This is the result of a nation who ignores God and puts faith in wealth, economy, military might, influence and political parties. Lord, may my heart learn to put its faith and trust in you alone.

Only One Worthy of Worship

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:  

Offer genuine worship of Jehovah-God alone (Ezk 6:3-7, 11-14). #NoOtherGods #GenuineWorshipOfJehovah 

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Here describes a message of absolute condemnation and destruction of idols. Here, judgment upon “the mountains” surrounding Israel is a metaphor of judgment on Israel itself. She was blatant in her worship of pagan idols on altars built in the safety of her mountains. 

Pagan Idols will be crushed. Israelites will die by their pagan altars. The corpses and bones of Israelites will be scattered around altars that have been torn down, destroyed and demolished. God will, by this, show that he alone is God. He alone is the people’s safety and strength. 

Lord, may this old sentry be reminded of the vast power of Jehovah-God; worship Him alone.

False Hope

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:  

Trust in God alone for your deliverance (Ezk 6:1-3). #NoOtherGods #TrustGodAlone

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The mountains“,

“the mountains“,

“the mountains of Israel“.

Three mentions of “the mountains of Israel” in two verses. Here the thrice Holy God (Isa 6:3; Rev 4:8) brings a message of condemnation upon the “mountains of Israel” (symbols of power, strength, and safety); Israel by association. Her faith was in her location, not in her God. 

Israel worshiped pagan gods and idols in “those mountains”. But the mountains were not her safety (neither is the church or political parties our safety today). God is the one who saves and delivers. All else is false hope. Lord, may my focus be on you and no other external force as my deliverance. 

The End of Hypocracy

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we turn quickly from pride, arrogance and disdain for God (Jer 34:17-22). #Repent #TurnNowToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The end of hypocrisy before God spells disaster for the nation of Judah. Here we see God‘s hand of protection as removed from Judah.

Because of pride and disobedience, God will allow an enemy, the Babylonians, to swoop in and destroy Jerusalem, the towns and cities of Judah.

Further, the bodies of the people (officials & citizens) will become food for vultures.

The king, Zedekiah, and his officials will be taken captive. War, disease and famine will be Judah’s end. This is the word of the Lord to Jeremiah.

Lord, may my heart (my nation, its leaders & people) turn from pride, arrogance and disdain for God. May we return to God.

We Are What We Do

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Understand the severity of hypocrisy with God (Jer 34:17,18). #DoWhatYouSay #FollowThroughMatters #MeanWhatYouSay

We Are What We Do;
Not What We Say We Will Do

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Hypocrisy before God is something for which every believer ought to be aware: telling God you will do one thing, but doing another. The reference to cutting a calf in half and then walking between the halves to solemnize their vows was tantamount to signing a contract (Gen 15:9,10).

Significantly, the vows made here were made before God in the temple of God (v15). This is a fiercely defiant sin. It is the same as going to church on Sunday and putting on a show of piety, then living a life of sin and debauchery the rest of the week. Lord, may I always do what my words imply that I am.

Hope That Overcomes

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Give praise for our overwhelming hope in Christ (1Jhn 5:4,5). #ChristIsTheVictory #JesusOvercomesTheWorld

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Every child of God, no exceptions, defeats the evil in this world. Victory is achieved through our faith in the Son of God – Jesus. That is to say, as long as there are committed believers, followers of Christ in this world, there will be hope.

Hope that men can be loving towards each other;

Hope that nations can/will repent and come to Christ;

Hope that even one child of God can make a vast difference;

Hope that gives assurance of ultimate eternal victory over the evil of this world.

Lord, my hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.

The Way Home

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Do not let shame, pride, fear or guilt prevent you from returning home to God (Jer 51:50,51).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God’s people are directed by God to return to their homeland at the fall of Babylon (vv45,50). But they are mortified, ashamed and disgraced because foreigners and aliens had desecrated the Temple of God in Jerusalem. They felt so ashamed (v51).

Yes, but God.“ What God says to them in essence is I am coming to deliver (v52). Don’t be paralyzed by shame. Though you may feel far from God, he is closer to you than you think. Turn your eyes on God. Set your gaze on your homeland. (v50). The way home is to repent, turn your heart towards him again and he will see you through. He will do a work of revival in you.

__________

WHY WOULD ANYONE NOT RECEIVE SO COMPASSIONATE A LOVE AS THE FATHER OFFERS?

S H A M E ! F E A R ! P R I D E !

_________

Adam and Eve reacted to their sin and disobedience towards God, not by humbly seeking God to admit guilt. But in their newly acquired shame, pride, guilt and fear (having eaten of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good & Evil) they tried to cover up their sin. They thought they could hide from God (Gen 3). They thought they could outsmart God and somehow avoid accountability.

The Psalmist felt shame (Psm 73): ”Then I realized that my heart was bitter, and I was all torn up inside. I was so foolish and ignorant— I must have seemed like a senseless animal to you” [but God reminded him of his compassions]. The Psalmist continues, “You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth“ (Psm 73:21-22,24-25 NLT).

Paul says there is no disappointment in Jesus (Rom 10:11).

______

In Jeremiah 51:50-51, God essentially explains how to defeat shame. The children of Israel were in captivity in Babylon. God through Jeremiah tells them to return home to Jerusalem when Babylon falls. But the children of Israel express shame that the temple in Jerusalem was desecrated on their watch.

in these two verses God is saying, THE WAY HOME IS

1) don’t be paralyzed by shame, pride, guilt and fear,

2) turn your eyes on God [on Jesus],

3) set your face to your homeland [set your eyes on your future glory] and…

4) though you feel far from God, he is closer than you think.

Turn to him now. There is hope. Ask God’s forgiveness for sin. Invite him to take his rightful place in your heart. Then follow him…all The Way Home.

Reading The Signs: Approaching Hoofbeats

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

May God’s sentries on the American wall “Stand Faithfully, Watch Vigilantly, Pray Earnestly, Speak/Act Boldly” to warn of approaching hoofbeats (Jer 51:45-50). #ApprochingHoofbeats #StormWarning

APPROACHING HOOFBEATS

Morning Watch: Extended

It would be foolish to declare the words of Jeremiah 51:45-50 as prophecy over America. That is not the context. However, it would also be foolish not to take a lesson from history. Especially when I see these very same things happening in America. It is a wake up call!!!

This is what the sentry on the wall, the American wall, ought to be doing – pointing to the signs of God’s impending judgment and crying out a warning of the approaching hoofbeats of an overwhelming adversary being sent by God himself.

In 2024 is America headed for judgment? There are signs to be read:

1. Rumors arise every year of growing adversarial threats. (China, Russia, North Korea, Iran).

2. There is violence and lawlessness in our streets, judicial oversight is falling apart.

3. Leaders in government fight against each other (interagency fighting, federal and state governments fighting, congressional fighting).

4. America will certainly see her great idols fall (great institutions of science, education, her military complex, financial markets, false religions, et.al).

5. I would humbly add to this list the demise of the family unit and the breakdown of morality.

It is the ultimate hubristic and godless mind that could think such a society could survive.

Consider the words of Christ who said, “Fools, you can read signs of weather, but you don’t know how to interpret the present times” (Luke 12:56). You don’t have to be a prophet to read the signs of our times.

The sentry on the wall has standing orders: Stand Faithfully, Watch Vigilantly, Pray Earnestly, Speak/Act Boldly (ISA 62:6; NEH 4:16-18; Hos 8:1-4).

But I don’t come to this passage with some pessimistic fatalism. I come to this passage with some excitement about the future. May we see either a GREAT AWAKENING that sweeps thousands into the Kingdom of a God and/or a GREAT EXIT in the second coming of Christ.

COME HOLY SPIRIT!

COME LORD JESUS!

Read The Signs, Prepare

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Put your hope in God in time of national troubles (Jer 51:45-50). #Homeland #SignsOfTheTimes

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In this prophecy of the fall of Babylon, the Lord tells the people there will be signs of Babylon’s breaking apart. God says to his people, “Don’t panic or be afraid, but remain confident. Prepare to exit. Save yourselves from God’s fierce judgment.” Read the signs and prepare.

Here are the signs of the coming judgment (America be alert): there will be rumors of approaching enemy forces (year after year, rumors grow). There will be violence in the land. Leaders fight against each other. Judgment has begun on this prideful land of Babylon. You of the remnant, remember the Lord and think of your Homeland.

Are you prepared to exit this earth? Have you settled the question of your eternal destiny? Have you trusted Christ as savior? Is your mind focused on the things of Christ? Father, I am reminded in the face of national troubles to stay focused on you my mission and my eternal Homeland.

Point Of No Return

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Trust God to carry out his every plan in our lives and for the nations (Jer 51:27-33). #God’sPlan

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah continues God’s call to the nations that will rise up against Babylon. The hammer of judgment God used to discipline his people will itself be hammered and broken. All the nations mentioned here were war-like people. God will use them to lay waste to Babylon, deliver his people.

Jeremiah prophesies that all the mighty warriors of Babylon will retreat for cover; offer no resistance. When God’s people realize that Babylon being trampled, they will then know that God’s harvest of judgment had arrived (the 70 year captivity will be over). Lord, except for repentance, there is no rolling back your plan for our lives nor the nations.

The Thread of Life is Cut

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

May this great nation of America return to God before it is too late (Jer 51:6-14). #ReturnNowToGod #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Any nation, any city, yea, any person who thinks they can commit sacrilege towards God, can commit arrogance towards God, should think again. Before you know it, greatness can become a vapor. America could learn a lesson from Babylon (Isa 26:9). Babylon’s enemies were found, swarming her streets and shouting triumph over her.

America’s greatness is being squandered. Criminals, illegal aliens and terrorist are streaming in and swarming in and through the streets of America. Her systems of law, order, justice and moral sensibilities are being crushed. Only God knows the outcome. Will America’s “thread of life be cut” (v13)?

Lord, may we as a people in America turn to you before it is too late (note v9).

God Is Not Mocked

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION

Walk and serve humbly before God (Jer 50:33,34; Mic 6:8). #WsakHumblyBeforeGod #GodIsNotMocked

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This is another reminder of who it is that is bringing destruction to Babylon and the deliverance of Israel from exile. It is none other than “the God of Heaven’s Armies.“

Is the mighty arm of the Lord falling on Babylon because he used her to bring judgment on his people? No. It is because Babylon was arrogant, mocked & defied God; she literately enjoyed watching people suffer. Any who are used of God, for any purpose, must be cautious in the use of their power.

God can raise up and God can take down any leader or any nation, and he will (Dan 2:21; Psm 75:7). Lord, may this sentry always walk humbly before you; may my service to you bring you honor and glory.

Dangerous False Narratives

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be discerning of false and lying leaders (Jer 23:13–15). #GodlySpiritualLeaders #PastorsTeachersProphets #DevotedToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah compares the prophets in Jerusalem (Judah – southern kingdom) to the Samarian prophets of Israel, the northern kingdom, already judged and gone. These Samarian prophets prophesied in the name of Baal (the Canaanite deity). They were wicked men and lead Israel into all kinds of sin.

Jeremiah saw the prophets of Judah as worse than the their counterparts. They were dishonest, liars, and adulterers on par with the people of Sodom & Gomorrah (symbolizing ultimate depravity). These prophets led the people of Judah into all manner of sin. They would be made to drink of the bitter waters of judgment.

Lord, may I (our nation) be discerning of those who paint a false view of God and the future.

Broken-hearted

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Give us spirit-filled leaders who honor God and speak the truth (Jer 23:9–12). #GodlySpiritualLeaders #PastorsTeachersProphetsDevotedToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Following Jeremiah‘s confrontation with Hananiah, an influential but false prophet (Ch 28), he turns his attention from the kings of Judah to the prophets and priests. Jeremiah is heartbroken at the condition of the office of prophet and priest in Judah. They were godless men who polluted and profaned the temple. They maintained a very low view of God. They did not respect God‘s word.

Spiritual and moral adultery was rampant. These so called spiritual leaders carried out their despicable acts even in the temple. God would chase them down. They would be judged for their sin, their detestable ways. Men and women who do not preach the truth will be severely dealt with by God. Lord, may I have the highest view of your word; may we have men and women in spiritual leadership, who speak truth and honor God.

TRUST, BUT VERIFY

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Have a healthy reverence for God; a discerning heart for truth (Jer 28:5–11). #BeDiscerningOfTruth #TrustButVerify #TrustGodsWord

TRUST BUT VERIFY

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After Hananiah‘s dramatic “prophetic show,“ Jeremiah turned and walked out of the temple. But before he did, he spoke some well, chosen words:

1) He admitted that it would be good if Judah would only be under Babylonian rule for 24 months; 2) he questioned Hananiah’s claim to be a prophet of God – time would tell [TRUST BUT VERIFY].

Jeremiah spoke wisely and correctly. That is when Hananiah broke the yoke on Jeremiah‘s neck. He then doubled down on his fake “word from God.” He showed no fear of God. Lord, may I always have a healthy respect for you and a discerning heart for truth.

Restoration Promise

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we know as a people the joy of the full restoration of God (Jer 27:22). #God’sRestoration #RestorationPromise

RESTORED!

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Lord does not leave his people without hope. Though judgment may fall upon the land of Judah, the precious implements of worship be removed from the temple in Jerusalem, God promises to restore them to their place (people & worship).

God reveals here that there will be restoration after judgment and discipline has befallen his people. God never leaves us without Hope. America is not without hope. Lord, though this sentry, my beloved country, may feel the pain of your discipline, may I (we) also know joy and hope in the promise of your full restoration.

The True Prophet

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Give us prayerful pastors and prophets who speak the truth of God. (Jer 27:12-22). #Prayer #PrayingProphets #SpeakTheTruth #PrayingPastors

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In this passage, Jeremiah is pleading with king Zedekiah to surrender to the king of Babylon. “Why would anyone choose death, war, famine, and disease over life?“ He then pleads his case to the priests and the people. “False prophets are lying to you. If you resist Babylon you will be expelled from the land.

PRAYER! If these prophets were true prophets of God, says Jeremiah, they would intercede with God that further punishment and calamity be avoided; that further looting of the temple and palaces would be averted. Surrender to the yoke of Babylon would achieve that. But there would be no such prayers. Disaster, as prophesied by Jeremiah, would soon follow.

Lord, may I have the heart of a praying pastor/prophet that would intercede compassionately for the people of God and speak the truth of God to the those in my circle of influence.

Remain Steadfast

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Serve God with unmitigated devotion (Jer 27:12–15). #TrustGod #TruthSpeak #YIELDtoGod #Steadfast

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah speaks directly to his king (Zedekiah): 1) yield to Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Do this and you will live; 2) do not listen to the false prophets. They prophesy a false hope for a quick resolution to the threat of the Babylonian take over.

Jeremiah says, “Yield to the yoke of Babylon and live, or face annihilation“. Jeremiah preached faithfully some harsh prophecy. I am moved at the tenacity, Integrity and intensity of Jeremiah‘s devotion to speak the truth in his prophetic ministry. Lord, may I be so moved as Jeremiah with such devotion to your call in my life.

I pray that America might discern and listen to those who speak the truth of God’s word.

God Uses Whom He Choses

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Trust God to work all things for our good (Jer 27:2–6). #TrustGod #SurrenderAllToGod #WhomGodChoosesHeUses

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God instructed Jeremiah to use an object lesson to speak to the ambassadors of five surrounding nations of Judah. “Make a YOKE (symbol of bondage) and fasten it around your neck. Send these men home to their respective kings with the message,* submit to Babylon.“ He also was to remind them that God (not their gods) made the earth and the men and animals that inhabit it. He is all powerful. He exalts whom he chooses.

Babylon at this time was God’s chosen servant and it would, for a time, conquer and control these nations. They should surrender to the YOKE of Babylon’s control, for their own good. These words reveal that God is at work behind-the-scenes for the good of all people – especially his own people. Lord, may I take to heart the words of Romans 8:28 and trust you in “all things”.

This is still true today, for America and all other nations

_______

* It’s possible that Jeremiah may have sent a YOKE home with each ambassador to reinforce the message to surrender to Babylon.

Say What??

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Be discerning of those who speak lies and live for their own self interests. (Jer 29:15-23). #BelieveGod #DiscernTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Although God has a “good plan” for his people (vv10–14), to bring them through his discipline, they have a long way to go. But the seers and prophets in their midst were telling them lies and living licentious lives. They sought to silence, Jeremiah (vv26–28). They were giving a false sense of hope.

God will deal harshly with the sin of those who falsely represent God. Part of God‘s “good plan“ includes his discipline. In this case, it will take 70 years to bring his people through that discipline as part of God’s “good plan”. “No one enjoys discipline. But it will produce a good harvest of righteousness in those who are trained by it“ (Heb 12:11).

Lord, may I always speak the truth and live putting others interests ahead of my own (Eph 4:14,15; Phi 2:4).

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.

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

Signs of Destruction are Evident

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.

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).