Be Not Intimidated

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Speak the truth of man’s sin and God’s forgiveness (Jer19:14–20:2). #NoIntimidation #SpeakTheTruth #GospelOfForgiveness

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah returns from the city dump of Jerusalem, where he smashed a clay pot before the temple and city leaders. There he prophesied to them the judgment of Judah for her sin (19:1–13).

Upon Jeremiah’s return, he stops in front of the Temple and prophesies the same message of judgment to the people gathered there. For this the Temple authority removes Jeremiah, has him arrested, whipped and put in stocks as a public spectacle.

There will always be naysayers, those who ignore and/or discredit the truth. It may be passive indifference or it may be hostile. The question is always, “How do I handle the truth?” Lord, mat every duty sentry always state the truth of man’s sin and the gospel of forgiveness, no matter the personal cost. May the sentry also be sensitive to the truth him/herself and respond accordingly.

Monument To Defiance

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May we repent quickly of sin and obey God to avert judgment (Jer 19:7–9). #NoToDefiance #HighCostOfDefiance.

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah points his delegation of Israelite leaders to the city dump (vv1,2). He explains God‘s plan to destroy the city (Holy City, Jerusalem).* Dead bodies will lie everywhere as food for the birds and wild animals. The rubble will be a monument to Israel’s defiance of God.

People who pass by will look with horror, appalled. The city will be cut off from its food supply and the people will resort to cannibalism to survive. They are driven to utter despair. This is no capricious act of God. The people had been warned.** Lord, the horror of judgment may be averted by repentance and obedience to God’s word.

_________

* History reveals the fulfillment of this prophecy: 586 B.C. and 70 A.D.

** Jer 11:1–8; Lev 26:28-30; Deu 28:53–57; 2Ki 6:24-30; Lam 2:20; 4:10

The Coming Storm

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May your faces be turned always toward God (Jer 18:16–17). #StormsOfJudgment #RepentTowardsGod #ObserveStormWarnings

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

At this point in Judah’s national life, God vows to desolate the land, just as the people have chosen to desolate their souls. Many will look on in horror. God further vows to scatter his arrogant disobedient people like the dust of a violent dust storm (a common occurrence in Israel).

Because God‘s people have turned their backs on him (2:27), God will turn away his face of favor from them. Now his people will see an amazing thing – they will see God‘s back as they are consumed by the distresses of judgment to come. Will America at some point see God’s back? May she turn in repentance and live. Lord, to ignore you will end in an ultimate demise.

Get Self Out Of The Way

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

America (even I myself) needs to rid its heart of indifference towards God (Jer 18:12-16). #RepentNow #TurnNowToGod

“You would turn away from God, your provider?

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God’s people express their resolve to continue in their wicked ways (v12). It makes no sense. God’s people have known his goodness to them, yet they turn their backs on him. Even the godless pagan can see the foolishness of such a response. It is seen as appalling, ghastly, even to them.

The response is in opposition even to the natural world. The snow in the mountains continually flows to the valley below (pictures God’s goodness). Rivers of living water flow from the “Rock,” also pictures God as the source of all goodness. Astonishingly God’s people opt for the waters of another (worthless gods). They cause their own stumbling off the true path that leads to God.

Lord, in light of all your goodness to me (to America) I (we) need to get out of my (our) own way and turn you.

_____

This old hymn says it well:

Come, thou Fount of every blessing;
tune my heart to sing thy grace;
streams of mercy, never ceasing,
call for songs of loudest praise.

Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
prone to leave the God I love;
here’s my heart; O take and seal it;
seal it for thy courts above.

Teach me some melodious sonnet,
sung by flaming tongues above;
praise the mount! I’m fixed upon it,
mount of God’s unchanging love!

God: First Priority

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Make worship of God your highest priority (Jer 17:19-27). #GodAloneIsWorthyOfOurPraise #LoveGodHeartSoulAndMind #RememberSabbath

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This may be one of the easiest passages in the prophets to understand and interpret. “Remember to keep Sabbath.“ Go read it – Exodus 20:8-11. The issue was and is, not what day of the week to worship God. The issue was and is, not making time in our hearts to stop and reflect on God‘s goodness.

When we put everything else in our lives ahead of God, we disrespect God. For not listening to God, for disrespecting God, Israel paid a heavy price. Babylon destroyed. Jerusalem and the Israelites spent nearly a century in captivity. They were exhorted to return to the Sabboth worship of God under Nehemiah (Neh 13:15–22). I am reminded of the importance of keeping God the highest priority in my life.

“A Charge To Keep”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

Keep your charge to influence all people for Christ (Heb 13:20,21). #AChargeToKeep #GospelOfPeace

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Here is the benediction which closes the book of Hebrews, “May God‘s peace…“ Our world is in turmoil as never before. Men often despair of hope. Many suffer and tire of wars, rebellion and violence. Ours is a broken world. Nothing will set it straight but “God‘s perfect peace.“

The benediction is a charge to God’s people (that’s us), the purveyors of the message of God’s peace. Jesus, the “Shepherd,“ brings the peace of God to men’s thirsty souls.

Our call is certain. Our marching orders are clear. Our equipping and empowerment is ratified by God to impact our world for good. We please him in the process. All glory to Christ forever.

Lord, may I keep my charge to take the Gospel of Peace to all in my sphere of influence.

Faith Race: The Runner’s Goal

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION:

May you finish well the race of faith set before you (Heb 12:1). #EndureToTheEnd #RunYourBestRace #FinishWell

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The goal of the runner in a race is to win the prize. In the race of faith the prize is achieving God’s purpose of Christ-likeness (1Co 9:24–27; Rom 8:29). I am not in competition with anyone. I compete against myself, to run my best race according to God‘s plan for me.

I endure all the conditions of the race. Like heat or rain culture, experience, education, friends, bullies, and the like, affect my race. Yet, like the runner, I endure. I may falter or stumble in the race. But success, the eternal prize, is determined not by how I start or falter, but by how I finish. Lord, may I finish well the race set before me.

Unwavering faith

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS AND NATION:

Stand faithful to Christ no matter the cost (Heb 10:32-35). #StandingForChrist #ThePersecutedChurch

Persecution: I could not publish pictures of actual persecution; ridicule is a beginning

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

We who live in the western world know little of persecution. Many in the early church were put to death in public coliseums, lost all their worldly possessions and were put in jail/prisons. [There are those today who suffer such indignity] The writer of Hebrews calls these early Christians to remember the days of their persecution and stay engaged in their faith. There is a far greater reward awaiting those who persevere (Heb 12:1-3).

The church has always fared much worse under prosperity than under persecution. Due to changes in our culture today, the American and free world church is coming under increasing attack. Will she stand? The question for us is, will we stand with brothers and sisters in Christ against the growing tide of persecution? Lord, may I have the courage to stand up to any persecution.

Letter to the American Church – Eric Metaxas: Review & Response

I begin this review and response with these words from Nehemiah, chapter four, verse fourteen: “Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and [fearlessly spoke the truth] to them, ‘Don’t be afraid of the enemy! [But confidently] Remember the Lord, who is great and [awesome], and [with courage from him] fight for your [friends, your families], your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!’ “ (NLT w/translation interpretations in brackets)

Eric Metaxas asks the question, “Would the American church have acted any differently than the German church [in the 1930s & 40s]”, leading up to the Hitlerian holocaust – the extermination of millions of Jews? The answer is, “No.” She’d like to think she would, but she is not. The American church today, like the German church then, has turned a blind eye to the cultural breakdown of our society. Does she has a duty to respond, to stand for truth? Absolutely!^[1] This is the premise of the book.

Metaxas explains that the American church (as a whole) is being gobbled up by the new cultural norms (e.g., abortion, transgenderism, homosexuality, critical race theory and the like). The American church needs to read the signs of a corrupt society. She must respond to the changing cultural norms and not simply conform. She must see the evil forces behind such things.^[2]

Dietrick Bonhoeffer (1906-1945), German Lutheran pastor, theologian and anti-Nazi dissident, writes in The Church and the Jewish Question (his response to the increasing hostility of Hitler towards Christian values): “The church [must be] the conscience of the state, call it into account – object when the state does wrong – not remain silent. The Christian, the church must help those who are victims of the state [those who cannot speak for themselves]. If the state refuses to change course, it is the solemn obligation of Christians to take action.”^[3]

Metaxas says the German church made four grave errors that led to a culture of silence. This culture led to the German church’s mistaken idea that they could somehow stand apart from the destructive, Nazi governmental demise of the nation’s soul. [When our American President proclaims that he is “fighting for the soul of America”, that should alarm us. The church should be extremely concerned, stand up and say something].

The leaders of the German church thought it better to mind their own business and stay out of politics; focus on faith, evangelism, “teaching the Bible” and living a quiet Christian life. The church’s silence on the tragic murder of millions of Jews, the church’s silence on the “cancel culture“ of their day, led to a cowardice end. Metaxas deals with these errors one by one:

Too many in the church were Christians in name only (cheap faith; cheap grace)
Evangelism became the sole endgame of the church (just talk about Jesus)
A “Do no harm” mentality meant, no political speak, be “inclusive” (silence)
Piety, avoiding sin, stood above civic engagement (separate secular from spiritual)^[4]

Metaxas says, “When the German Church in the 1930s and the American church of our day focuses on doctrinal statements but forgets that we are obliged to live out what we claim to believe, it makes a mockery of what God actually requires of us.” Bonhoeffer was calling the German church to repentance.^[5] Metaxas, in this book, is calling the American church to repent today – or we have learned nothing from history.

RESPONSE – REFLECTIONS:

When I began reading, Letter to the American Church, I was expecting and hoping for a “To Do“ list on how to impact our 21st-century culture. Ultimately there was no list. But by the middle of the book, it became clear to me what Metaxas was saying that I should do. I must be fearless and stand for the truth, God’s truth. I must seek after God for the holy boldness and courage that I might lack, to speak up. I said, “But Lord, I am only one.” God replied, “Yes, but you ARE one!” This Latin term came to my mind: “Acta Non Verba” (action not words).

I do not want, nor do I wish, to live a “safe faith,“ a mere intellectual assent to Christianity. I want to live a “Lionized Faith.“ I want to live with a bold faith in Christ. My commitment to evangelism should be more than just convincing someone to say a prayer. My evangelism must not be a milquetoast call to “join up”, being oh so careful not to offend anyone. I must proclaim the true cost of discipleship, the cost of following Jesus. I conclude again, Acta Non Verba! Speak the truth in love and do something, say something. Risk everything. Risk being misunderstood. But speak the truth of God without fear, leaving the results with our loving (not angry) God.

The great lies of our day are confused sexuality and transgender madness, the breakdown of the family unit. They are the Marxist critical race theory (CRT) being taught along with misguided lies about sexuality in our children’s classrooms. They are the lies being taught that carry a hateful undertone of racial bigotry, social justice and class warfare throughout our government, education system and even in many churches of America. Can we (can I) be silent in the face of this evil ideology? I cannot. I am only one… But I am one.

I will not be held bondage to the spirit of this age (Gal 5:1)^[6]. The strategy is clear:

I must speak.

I must speak truth.

I must speak truth fearlessly.

But how? When? However and whenever the opportunity arises (Acta Non Verba!). if I do not speak up and act, then I am condemned by God…Not necessarily to hell, but to the destruction of my culture. A destruction then of my own making.

Metaxas quotes Bonhoeffer (I make it personal): “[I must] live out [my] faith with every atom of [my] being in every second [I] have on this earth and with every breath God gives [me] to breathe. Anything less than this kind of faith is [no faith at all].^”[7] William H Johnson once proclaimed, “If it is to be, it is up to me!“Those ten words say it all.

Metaxas concludes, “Our Bible studies and sermons have all been meaningless if we do not make what we learned come alive in ways that are self-sacrificial and that show we really do know that God has defeated death. Many who do not yet know the God we claim to worship will see how we live and will want to know Him…come to know Him, and become a part of what He is doing in our generation. Dare we believe that, or are we already headed to the caves, believing nothing we do can matter…all we can do is save ourselves?”^[8]

I must proclaim for myself with Martin Luther of the German church, “Here I Stand.” I commit to God my personal strategy to speak the truth fearlessly, compassionately and convincingly when given the opportunity. Metaxas says that “truth is a person, Jesus Christ.“ I will speak and act as called upon, God willing, by the power of the Holy Spirit.

How does one lonely voice make a difference? By starting where I am, picking up whatever tool, using whatever platform God has given me and take every opportunity that comes my way to do as I am charged by Scripture to do: stand faithfully, watch vigilantly, pray earnestly, speak/act boldly (Isaiah 62:6; Nehemiah 4:16-18). I must act like the young shepherd boy David, when faced with Goliath. I must trust God. I am, like the Israelites, fearful and powerless without God. I must depend on God alone for the victory. David said, “I come in the name of the Lord.“ (1Samuel 17:46,47). I must be quick to the fight, fast with my sling and swift with my stones.

Pick up whatever God puts in your hands and get busy. I am a dad and a granddad – I can speak truth into the lives of my children and grandchildren. I don’t have endless financial resources, but I can use what I have to support others taking the fight where I cannot go. I am a writer and blogger. I can make my voice known to the glory of God and the impact of my culture. I can vote, I can speak for candidates who promote godly values, be they Christian or not, and do so no matter the personal cost to me. It is a simple strategy:

SPEAK TRUTH FEARLESSLY

“Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and [fearlessly spoke the truth] to them, ‘Don’t be afraid of the enemy! [But confidently] Remember the Lord, who is great and [awesome], and [with courage from him] fight for your [friends, your families], your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!’ “ (Neh 4:14).

^[1] Metaxas, Eric. Letter to the American Church, Washington D.C., Salem Books, (2022), pg. 18

^[2] IBID, pg. 35

^[3] IBID, pg. 39

^[4] IBID, pgs. 51, 52

^[5] IBID, pg. 64

^[6] “Christ has set us free! This means we are really free. Now hold on to your freedom and don’t ever become slaves of the Law again.” (Gal 5:1; AMP)

^[7] Metaxas, Eric. Letter to the American Church, Washington D.C., Salem Books, (2022), pg 126

^[8] IBID, pg. 128

American Legacy – Generation Lost?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Lord, may our children have godly, righteous leaders worthy of following (Heb 3:7–11; Psm 95:10,11). #ActionsHaveConsequences #LegacyMatters #GenerationLost

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I heard Henry Blackeby (author and pastor) say of Psalm 95:10,11, “An entire adult generation cost the youth of their day much suffering in the wilderness.“ These words have haunted me for days as I have meditated on this Hebrews 3:7–11 text. I am left with a equally haunting question. In what conditions are we leaving our children in America?

A disobedient adult generation were the cause of Hebrew children and their families to wander in the wilderness for forty years. Forty years of eating manna. Forty years of windy dusty traveling nonstop. When the last adult of that disobedient generation died a child born at the beginning of the wilderness journey would have been 40ish. The oldest, like Caleb & Joshua (adjusting for ancient calendars), were in their 80s (Joshua 14:10). I learn that my actions have consequences for those I lead. Lord, may I leave the NEXT GEN a godly example to follow.

_________

A brief read of modern day Great Awakenings in America reveals them occurring approximately every fifty years (1740s, 1790s, 1850s, 1900s). There is some disagreement on specific dates. But following this pattern, America should have seen an Awakening around the 1950s-60s.

But what did we see? Well, what we saw was twenty to thirty year olds in the those years who were busy burning bras and American flags. They were busy removing prayer and the Bible from schools. They have been at work ever since, developing Progressivism, a WOKE culture, restricting chaplaincy programs in the military and prison systems, removing oaths that contain the words, “So help me God.” They have been aborting babies, changing gender definitions and so much more. God forgive us.

What generation was this? This would be the generation who gave us leaders like Richard Nixon, Nelson Rockefeller, George Romney, Colin Powell, Earl Warren, Joe Biden, Harry Reid, Dianne Feinstein, Nancy Pelosi to name a few. Lord, forgive us all.

So, as with that ancient Hebrew generation, perhaps, in God’s displeasure, he has discarded this 20th, 21st Century generation. Perhaps we are in the midst of a generation that God has chosen to bypass. Perhaps there will be no revival in the immediate days ahead.

[THIS OLD SENTRY IS JUST ASKING]

___________

But our hope may be for awakening and revival in our children’s generation. Maybe in the next 10-15 years. Better yet, the soon return of Christ. I PRAY FOR BOTH!

YOUR THOUGHTS?

A Country at its Worst

HEADLINE (1/3/2023):

House Democrats Cheer as McCarthy Fails to Clinch Speakership Multiple Times

That headline broke my heart over the state of rancor and disunity in our Republic. it’s ugly tentacles have our citizenry in a stranglehold.

Satan rejoices in our division.

Scripture reminds me, “Don’t rejoice when your enemies fall; don’t be happy when they stumble. For the Lord will be displeased with you and will turn his anger away from them.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭24‬:‭17‬-‭18‬ ‭

Lord, may we be principled yet respectful of one another. ‬‬

Godly Exceptionalism

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Live a godly life made exceptional by the grace of God (Jer 16:10). #GodlyExceptionalism #NoExceptionToTheRule

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah was to exhibit extraordinary behavior to act out and explain God’s displeasure with Judah, his people (vv1-9). The people denied God. Yet, in verse 10, they ask indignantly, “Why is God unhappy with us? What have we done – how have we sinned against him?“ They were religious in their outward actions but far from God in their hearts.

Far from being the exceptional people God intended them to be, they thought they were the exception to the rule. They believed God was obligated to protect and provide for them. Exceptionalism does not make one an exception to the rule – in this case devotion to God. Lord may I live my life as a child of God, made exceptional in repentance by the grace of God.

I believe in “American Exceptionalism.” But America is not an exception to the rule, free to live in defiance of God and his Word. Her “Exceptionalism” is a God-given attribute. She needs to turn from her sin and act like it. May repentance be the rule of the day.

Snub God, Pay The Price

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Take seriously sin and drifting from God (Jer 16:1–9). #PainfulSnub #Repent #TurnNowToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

There are times when God will ask hard things of his messengers, sometimes extreme things. His purpose is to wake people up, to jolt them into reality. Therefore, Jeremiah was told he could not marry and have children in a culture where this was obligatory. He was not to mourn the dead – unthinkable among the Jews at that time. Nor was he allowed to participate in festivals, joyful events.

All of these things were to show the drastic nature of God‘s intentions to judge a wayward and sinful people. The destruction would be thorough and complete. It would (and did) happen in Jeremiah‘s lifetime (v9). Woe to those who think they can snub their nose at God. Lord, keep old sentry alert to the seriousness of sin and drifting from God.

Against The Tide

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Stand fearlessly for the truths of God (Jer 15:10,11). #AgsinstTheTide #FearlesslyDevotedToTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Having heard God‘s response to the prayers of God‘s people (which was, God would not listen), Jeremiah dives headlong into a lament of his own with God. “I should have died at birth. It is such sorrow, depressing, to be hated by everyone, everywhere. I have done nothing to deserve the ire of everyone, yet they all curse me.“

Sometimes the man or woman of God must stand alone against the tide of unrighteousness. It is not an enviable position. But, stand you must, if you are to honor God. It is not you the people curse. It is (heaven forbid) God and his truth. God will see you through. In the end they will seek you to plead their case (v11).

Defaulted Shepherd/Leaders

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Give us righteous leaders who seek God‘s leadership & govern wisely (Jer 13:20,21a) #NeededRighteousLeaders #ShepherdLeaders

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah addresses the leaders of Judah as shepherds. He asks rhetorically – “Where are your beautiful flocks that God gave you?“ That is, where are your people who once loved and followed God? The implication is that these shepherds have ignored their flocks. Leaders, CIVIC and religious, are called into account. They ought to be embarrassed at the question. But they are not.

Judah’s leaders have ignored the people. They have spent more time pandering to allies, padding their own pockets and following other gods (who are no gods) than listening to Jehovah God and leading righteously. The Prophet says these godless allies will become their rulers. They will be the instruments God’s judgment.

There is blatant rejection of God in American politics and in certain segments of religious influence. They have led the people astray. These shepherd/leaders in America should be embarrassed. But they are not. America won’t like the alternative that will surely come. Lord, may my beloved nation have leaders who seek God‘s counsel & govern righteously.

Don’t Get “Smashed”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Humble yourself, seek God‘s counsel, listen to him and follow (Jer 13:12–14) #Don’tGetSmashed #Revival #SpiritualAwakening

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Following Jeremiah’s living parable of the loincloth, illustrating how Judah had become so disgusting to God (v10), God explains the purpose of his choosing Israel. God chose Israel to be a people of praise, renown and glory unto him.

But the nation became proud, arrogant and stubbornly unwilling to follow after God. Therefore, God would fill their wine jugs with wine (signifying “drunkenness;“ that is judgment). Then God says he will “smash“ the jugs to smithereens. Every person from least to great will be mercilessly destroyed for their sin of rebellion.

May this Old Testament lesson be an example to me (1Co 10:6-12), that my arrogance and foolish pride doesn’t prevent me from listening to God and becoming all that God wants me to be. Oh Lord, may I humbly seek your counsel. May I listen and follow, that your purposes might be fulfilled in my life (that is, the glory of the Lord Jesus and the spread of the Gospel).

Lord, may my beloved nation humble herself, seek God’s counsel and become once again a beacon of light for the Gospel.

An Emerging Wasteland

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May America have shepherd leaders who honor God (Jer 2:10–13). #TurnBackToGod #GodOurOnlyHope

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Leaders in Judah had been as heedless in guiding the people of God as careless indifferent shepherds who send their sheep to graze on the young vines of a vineyard. The consequence is that the sheep unwittingly make the beautiful vines a wasteland.

So God’s people had laid waste to all of the blessings of God on them. They did not see the signs of the gathering armies on the hilltops, ready to wield God’s sword of judgment upon them. They have done “religious” works, done the work of planting, but they will harvest a crop of shame and devastation. Lord, give us shepherd leaders today who will honor God and pay heed to his word.

________

America today is squandering her blessings from God. We are becoming a vast wasteland. Illegal immigrants are overrunning us and depleting our resources. Inflation is devouring financial resources. Immorality and homosexuality is laying waste to our moral resources. Our children are being sacrificed on altars of humanistic/socialistic ideologies and compromising this, our most precious resource. Lord, may our leaders show signs of humble repentance and point America back towards you.

How long?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Do not grow weary in the fight against evil (Jer 12:1–4). #StandFast #DoNotGrowWeary

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

“How long Lord?“ Having survived a plot to kill him by evil men unhappy with his message, Jeremiah inquires of the Lord. He asks, “Why do the wicked prosper? Why are they happy? How long will we mourn for our destruction?“ It’s an age old question (Job 21:7-21; Hab 1:2–4).

Faithful prayer sentries may come to their posts weary, even, at times, discouraged by unrestrained evil. The question often haunts their watch. “How long, O Lord, will evil prevail? When will you end the destruction?“ Father God, do not let my finite thoughts wander into places beyond my knowledge and comprehension, lest I be consumed by defeat.

Reckless Conspiracy

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Humbly surrender your heart to God’s lordship (Jer 11:9–17). #GodlySorrow #Repentance #TurnToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The reforms of king Josiah (2Ch 34) were short-lived. The people secretly conspired to rid themselves of God’s oversight. They soon returned to their idolatries and immoral lives. Now the pagan idols and altars thought to save them would become their very downfall (v12).

“Do not pray for them Jeremiah” (also 7:16; 11:14). Judgment is on the way. The beautiful olive tree of God’s planting (Israel) will suddenly be destroyed for its rejection of God’s leadership. The nation that rejects God will suffer the consequences. Lord, may we in America, as a people, have humble hearts willing to repent and return to you.

Consider: America is not Judah. She is not a theocracy. Judah’s judgment is not America’s judgment. But America was founded upon Judeo Christian principles (biblical principles) of freedom and liberty. America has been blessed by God because of this. For her to conspire against and turn her back on God will bear no less consequences in judgment. Of this she may be certain. I pray God send revival in the church and awakening in the land.

I do not pray for nor wish for any ill will toward any one person or group of people invested in the political system of America. In fact I pray for their redemption who do not know nor honor God. But I do pray for the absolute destruction of any ideology that conspires against God. I pray that lies and deceit would be exposed and that truth, honor, and respect for God be elevated.

Reversing Failure & Privation

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May our eyes be opened to sin’s devastation; reverse direction (Jer 10:19–22). #Repentance #GodlySorrow #Awakening

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The judgment that is about to fall on Judah is inevitable. It will be severe, the grief will be great. The security of one’s home will be destroyed beyond repair. Children will be lost – a generation will be left adrift and unredeemed.

Shepherds (leaders) had lost all sense of direction and no longer sought after God‘s wisdom. Their failures were devastating and all influence with the people was lost. The people will be divided, scattered, left to wander defenseless. The enemy from without will roll down and destroy the nation.

This is what happens to a nation who no longer seeks after God. The privations of my beloved country paint a bleak picture for her future. Lord, may the people of America be awakened to her demise and return to the God of her heritage. May the church be renewed, filled with the Spirit and pointing the way to a loving God.

A Gibraltar Faith

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Stand fast in your faith; encourage the faithful (Jud 1:17–21). #StandFastInFaith #EncourageTheFaithful

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

So, what are the sentry’s standing orders in these “last days,“ in the face of those who make a mockery of biblical values and live a hedonistic lifestyle, who create division and who do not live by the Spirit of God? Jude answers: Be strengthened in the faith (have a “Gibraltar“ sized faith).

Build one another up who do follow God faithfully. Be prayerful for each other (and those who deny the faith). Look forward to the merciful coming of Christ and eternal life. Thus you will stay safe in the saving, keeping grip of God‘s love. Lord, make of this old sentry a Gibraltar of faith to my friends and family. May I work tirelessly to encourage the faithful in my orbit of influence.

PRAYING FOR YOU WHO ARE

READING THIS BLOG TODAY

Standing Against Evil & Deceiving Spirits

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Seek first the rebuke of God against deceiving spirits and evil authority in this world (Jude 1:5-11). #StandingAgainstSatan #StandingAgainstDeceivingSpirits

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jude 1:9 presents an interesting account of a dispute between Michael the Archangel and Satan over the body of Moses. Nothing further is known about this specific account. Any explanation is conjecture. What we do know is that when Moses died, God buried him (Deu 34:5-8).

We also know that there is a mighty war being waged against evil in this world (2Co 4:3,4; 1Jn 5:19). The war against evil is also being waged in spiritual realms as well (Dan 10:12-14).

I take the Bible at its word. I believe it to be the inspired, inerrant word of God. I accept Jude’s account at face value. Read verse nine in context (vv5-11). After some study and prayer, this is my humble conclusion about Jude’s account:

Even the Archangel of Heaven, Michael, does not take matters into his own hands when dealing with those who have authority (bestowed or otherwise). Even satanic authority.

Michael doesn’t call Satan names. He doesn’t make accusations. He doesn’t command decrees. He doesn’t pronounce any curses. HE CALLS FORTH THE REBUKE OF GOD against the archenemy enemy of Christ. “The Lord rebuke you.” This same prayer is used against Satan in Zech 3:1,2 where he is the accuser of Yeshua, God’s High Priest (See note at the bottom*).

Herein lies a key weapon in the battle against deceiving spirits and evil authority in this world or in the church. PRAYER! Prayer that calls forth the the LORD of Hosts, the Mighty Commander of Heaven’s Armies to fight our battles.

PRAYER is a powerful and mighty weapon against evil. PRAYER, calling forth God’s intervention, will bring down all the mighty, all the corrupt, all the arrogant, all the perverted and (in this text) all the apostate. Prayer for God’s intervention into the affairs of men and the affairs of the church is the first plan of action, not a last resort. God will fight your battles (Exo 14:14). This is what I believe to be the point of Jude 1:9.

Jude is saying, in context, to this old sentry that I must be alert to apostate teachers (or any other deceitful authority), alert to the evil they represent. I must not be drawn into their web of deceit and assassination of the truth of the Gospel. BUT IN PRAYER, CALL ON THE POWERS OF HEAVEN TO INTERVENE. This is how I should respond first to those in any seat of authority. Then follow God’s counsel from there.

* Little is known about Jude’s accounting of the argument between Michael and Satan. But the phrase “The LORD rebuke you” is used elsewhere (eg. Zech 3:1-4). That should signal some thoughts of validation in Jude. My study of the Zechariah passage reveals to me that the prophet had a vision of the high courts of Heaven. The High Priest, Joshua [or Yeshua – symbolic of Christ], is standing before the LORD. Satan is at his side accusing him. “And the LORD said to Satan, ‘I, the LORD [rebuke you], I reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the LORD, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you.’”

But it is not the sin of the High Priest in Zechariah’s passage that is represented here. It is all the sin of Israel, as it were, represented in him, and what befalls the nation, that is the image here. The “filthy clothes” of the High Priest is the familiar symbol of sin before God; and he wears it, just as he wore his sacerdotal dress before God, in his official capacity.

The High Priest was the embodiment of the nation. He stands before the judgment seat, bearing not his own but the people’s sins. This is a for-shadowing of our High Priest, Christ Jesus. He stands bearing all the sin, all the filth, of the world on the cross at Calvary. He is our substitution. He would die for our sin, be buried with our sin, then be raised from the dead cleansed from all our sin and clothed in robes of righteousness. This Christ did for all of mankind. HALLELUJAH!

It is for Satan’s accusations of the Son of Man, our High Priest; it is for Satan’s defiance of truth, that the Scriptures announce…

“The LORD rebuke you Satan.”

Comments Welcome

Lying Lips

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May our lips know only the truth; may we be discerning of truth (Jer 9:3-9). #TellTheTruth #WhereAreTheTruthTellers

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In the larger scheme of things, it seems like “lying” would be way down on the list of things that offend God. But lying is an abomination to God (Pro 12:22). Judah, God’s people, were slanderous, stood against the truth, were untrustworthy, defrauding, scheming and conniving against friends and family. They were good at lying, stacking lie upon lie and refused to acknowledge God. God asks, “How can I not bring judgment on this behavior?”

People often have a problem with telling the truth (not just politicians). We lie because it is in our nature to lie. Lying is the way we deflect blame and responsibility for our own sin and wrong doing. We lie to give ourselves the advantage. Our lies will often mean someone else is intentionally harmed. Lies deny others the benefit of knowing the truth. How will God not judge any nation that breeds a culture of lying? Lord, may my lips know only truth.

The Lord Victorious

Yesterday I was speaking on the phone with a dear friend from California. He was telling me about several mutual friends who were and are facing life threatening and debilitating illnesses. We spoke of our compassion for them; what long time friends they have been. But my friend who is normally pretty positive seemed troubled in his soul.

Our conversation then slipped into a brief discussion of the direction of our beloved nation. Of course, how one feels about America today depends entirely on one’s perspective and persuasion. The problem however, is not perspective. It is that there is so much animosity and vitriol between neighbors. We do not trust one another. So, whoever is in the minority becomes TERRIFIED of what will happen to us as a nation if the “other side,” the antagonists if you will, have the power.

ALWAYS,

one or the other of us is

TERRIFIED!

The whole conversation haunted me all day yesterday and into the night. This morning I awoke with a lingering pain in my heart over our conversation. Over dear friends who are facing dyer Illnesses. Over my friend and his deep compassion for other troubled souls. Over our beloved nation that is so divided.

“Lord, I need a little healing balm this morning, a little comfort.”

This is what God said to me:

The common enemy in all our devastation, whether it is sicknesses or political ideology, is the ruler of this world. It is Satan himself. He is the enemy of the body. He is the enmity between men. He is the perpetrator of sickness and the source of all our division, fears and terror.

This verse came to me. “My enemies [Satan is the real enemy] trample on me all day long, for many attack me proudly [sickness may attack me without mercy]. [BUT] When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I SHALL NOT BE AFRAID. What can flesh do to me?” – Psalm‬ ‭56:2-4‬ ‭

The Lord spoke to me further…

…“So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops.”

“And do not fear those who [or that which] kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered.”

“Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.” – Matthew‬ ‭10:26-33‬ ‭

So, this morning I am taking my stand against every weapon of Satan that might be fashioned against me, my friend, our other mutual hurting friends and my “neighbor” who may think differently than I.

I am declaring that the enemy of every man, woman and child is Satan. I will pray for the sick and bereaved. I will pray for my neighbor – no matter what the ideology, race or gender. I can declare that Satan is a liar and a deceiver of all men. He may even deceive the very elect of God. But let it be known today by the word of God that the enemy is exposed for who he is. May one prayer set thousands of Satan’s emissaries in this world to flight. May many prayers of the Saints set hundreds of thousands to flight.

The Lord declares it.

May we believe it.

May we declare it ourselves.

THE LORD OR GOD IS VICTORIOUS !!!

When Time Runs Out

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Humbly repent of sin before it’s too late (Jer 8:14–17). #TurnNowToGod #Repent #whenTimeRunsOut

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When the people of Judah realize that their security as a nation has been breached, panic will ensue. This is the moment when reality sets in – the cavalry is not coming. We are all going to die here. God really is not going to rescue us.

But at that point it will be too late. Time will have run out. The Babylonians will strike with the swiftness and fatality of a deadly poisonous snake. The thundering hooves of enemy troops on horseback will strike so fast there will be no time for repentance. The dam of sin’s consequences will have burst.

The same may be said for of all who reject God’s warnings today; his call to salvation. Lord, I cannot imagine anything more terrifying than the consequences of blatant sin bearing down on my beloved nation. May she humbly repent now, before it’s too late.

Those Lyin’ Eyes

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Realize the real lies; discern the truth (Jer 8:8–13). #RealEyesRealizeRealLies #DiscernTheTruth #DontBeFooled

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The people of Judah put their swagger on. “We have the Word of the Lord on our side.” But that Word was twisted and misused by lying priest, false prophets and tricky officials. They used God’s Word to suit their own greedy ends. They did this unashamedly.

The leaders were treating the mortal, terminal wounds of sin superficially. They assured the people that, “Ev’thing would be alright.” But it would not be alright. The nation would lose everything. These lying leaders would be cut down and whatever they did have, would be lost. Oh my Lord, what a duty the watchman or woman has to speak the truth and discern truth. Give us leaders who speak the truth.

On The Right Path?*

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Give heed to the spiritual laws of God that offer the best for life (Jer 8:4–7). #DoTheRightThing #RepentTowardsGod #PersueRighteousness

Mindless Birds Heed Migration Laws Of Nature; God’s People Ignore The Laws Of God

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Common sense should tell us when something is wrong in our being. But the people of God seem senseless. They live contrary to all that is right. They know they are wrong but refuse to turn back. They cling, like barnacles, to their lies and rationalizations of sin. They run in a herd, down the path of destruction.

Even mindless birds follow their natural instinct [laws of nature] to migrate. But God’s people, who have incredibly capable minds, given by God, do not follow the Laws of God. Those laws that govern goodness and righteousness. The message is to open our eyes and turn to God. Lord, may my beloved country, even this old sentry, heed your Laws and stay on the path of righteousness.

* There is a path before each person that seems right,
but it ends in death. (Pro 14.12)

Depraved

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Acknowledge the depths of your depravity before God (Jer 7:30–34). #DeplorableDepravedDevastation #TurnNowToGod #LordSendAwakening

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The sins of Judah before God were of the most heinous kinds. The Temple of God in Jerusalem was used to worship odious other gods and idols. Shrines were built outside the city where the abominable practice of child sacrifice was conducted. Children were burned alive in the worship of other gods (who are no gods). This was a practice that Jehovah God neither commanded nor even considered.

God says, “This will come to an end; my people will pay a steep price for their sin. I will make the land a desolate place.” Lord, deliver my soul from any deplorable sin that offends you. Deliver the soul of my beloved country from the sin that offends you. May we humble ourselves, repent and follow after God.

Lucky Us

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Deliver us as a nation from the sin of presumption (Jer 7:8–11). #LuckyCharm #IlligitimateWorship #TurnNowToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The danger of religious familiarity is that it leads to the sin of presumption – impertinent boldness, taking liberties with God’s goodness. God’s grace does not give me liberty to live like hell all week. Then on the day of worship, bow my head and pray (Rom 6:1,2). This is illegitimate worship.

God’s people had come to treat the very Temple in which they worshipped like a good luck charm, a religious talisman. They claimed to follow God but their hearts were far from him. God says, “Do you really think that is acceptable to me? I see your stinking depravity and it is unacceptable. That is why judgment is on its way.” Lord, how dare I ever presume upon your goodness & grace.

Terror & Crime Watch

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Listen to God and fear not to speak truth and grace into culture (Jer 6:22-26). #repent #TurnNowToGod #TimeIsRunningOut

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

America should learn the lesson of Judah. Part of God‘s judgment on his rebellious people was invasion, terrorism, cruel and merciless violence. People were afraid to travel across town or across the nation. Where is the security? Lawlessness and plunder rule the day. Like a woman giving birth – the pain is intense but no one comes to her aid (note 4:31).

America today stands in these crosshairs of judgment. Will she mourn and weep bitterly for the good times lost? Or will she weep bitter tears of repentance for sin against God? Lord may we have the courage to stand for you, to convey your message of truth and grace. Lord, give my beloved country a spirit of repentance.