Reason To Praise

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Come humbly into God‘s presence; praise and worship him (Psm 114:4-8). #WorshipTheHoly #GodIsWorthyOfOurPraise

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When God delivered Israel out of Egypt he turned back the Red Sea. He met with Moses on Mount Sinai. When God descended to meet with Moses, there was thunder, lightning, dark clouds, smoke, the blast of a trumpet and a terrible quaking of the earth. it was holy ground (Exo 19:16–19). When Israel crossed over into the promised land, the Jordan River was stopped up.

The psalmist here references all of that when he says, “The waters turned back and the mountains and hills skipped like Rams and lambs.“ The psalmist speaks rhetorically, “So, waters, why do you turn back? Mountains, why are you quaking?” The assumed answer is, because God is a holy presence – full of awe and power. God calls all of nature to worship, to give praise to him.

Lord, you give me reason to praise and worship you.

Who Am I? Where am I?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May our hearts hunger & thirst for righteousness (Psm 139:23,24; Mat 5:6).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Five to six days into my reading of Ezekiel, I had to stop and ask myself the question, “How do I apply what I am hearing God say to me? Where do I fit myself in these messages from God?” I had to stop and consider these few following thoughts:

If I am able to say that I am a man who is essentially following God‘s direction, I might be able to say that I relate to Ezekiel (or to some remnant of the godly, who are left in Jerusalem). But, if I must say that I am a man who has essentially been or currently am being disobedient, then I must relate to God’s rebellious people.

WHO DO I THINK AM I?

If I relate with Ezekiel, then it is a matter of obedience for me. I must continue to have daily conversations with God, listen to what he tells me in his word and then boldly carry out his instructions, no matter how difficult. I must ask, “Am I willing to follow God? How far would I go to proclaim God‘s truth?”

If I relate to those who have been disobedient to God, then I must stare into these prophetic words of Ezekiel, hear the truth of what God tells me about my sin/defilement, repent and turn back to him or suffer the consequences. Here I must ask, “Am I recalcitrant? How far have I gone, how far am I willing to go into sin before yielding to God‘s truth?“

WHERE DO I THINK I AM?

At times, I may come close to following Ezekiel‘s example. But I have certainly also had my times of extreme wayward behavior. God has had to deal harshly with me.

If I am honest, I would have to put myself in between the two ends of this spectrum – somewhere between obedient and recalcitrant. The questions for me daily are, “Where do I want to be on that spectrum? Am I seeking after righteousness? What am I willing to do to get there? Does God still communicate with me and I with him?” If I am still on speaking terms with God then there is still hope, mercy and grace for me.

This is all tied to that process we call “sanctification”. So, I am always in a state of growth. If I am sincerely walking in the Spirit I am not fulfilling the desires of the sinful nature (Gal 5:16-17). I am always growing and moving upward not down, forward not back. “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (ICo ‭15‬:‭57‬).

Detestable

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we experience a deep consciousness and rejection of sin (Ezk 4:8-13). #Repentance #TurnFullyTogod #DoNotIgnoreSin

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

During the times of Ezekiel‘s prophesying, he will be tied/bound with rope portraying Israel’s captivity. There will be no escape until the days of their destruction are complete. He is again a “living prophecy“ to the people.

To prepare for his living prophecy scene, he is to gather specified ingredients to bake bread periodically during his days of interaction with prophetic preaching (vv4–6). He is to bake the bread over human dung and eat it (vv12). Detestable in the eyes of Jews! This was to portray how God’s people will suffer defilement in their days of captivity in a gentile land of profane people (Babylon).

Lord, these readings lead me to a deep consciousness and rejection of sin’s misery.

Grievous Sin

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

May we understand how deeply sin grieves the heart of God (Ezk 4:4-6).

#God’sGriefOverSin #RepentOfSin

The symbolism, revolving around the facts and meaning of “390 days” and “40 days” (a day for every year of sin), are very difficult historically, textually and interpretively. Biblical scholars don’t all agree. What is clear is that both Israel and Judah have committed deeply grievous sins against God (made clear in v3) for a long time.

For this purpose Ezekiel portrays Israel as having borne the consequence of their sin (symbolically). The weight their sin is understood as heavily on them as Ezekiel lays down: first on one side for “390 days” (head pointed north towards Israel) then, “40 days” on the other (head pointed south towards Judah).

What is portrayed here is the seriousness of sin against God. It further shows the lengths to which God will go to convey his deep anguish, concern over and correction of sin. Lord, may this old sentry’s heart remain steadfast in its stand against personal sin.

Sieges of the Heart (Pt3)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Let not the siege of sin and disobedience put a barrier between you and God (Ezk 4:3). #FullSurrender #Repentance

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I have to remind myself as I read Ezekiel, the prophet is not addressing residents of Jerusalem. He is addressing citizens of Judah (Jerusalem) who have already been removed and deported to Babylon. False prophets have been telling them this season of captivity would be short-lived. Not so! (Jer 29:8-11)

The iron griddle in v3, placed between Ezekiel and his clay model city under siege, symbolizes the severity of the siege against the hearts of Jerusalem and the impregnable barrier between them and God because of sin (Isa 59:2). Jerusalem would cry out to God, but get no answer. The city would eventually fall.

Lord, there is no bargaining, no deal to be had with you. Only my full surrender and reverent obedience will suffice.

Sieges of the Heart (Pt2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May our eyes be opened to the sin that so besets us (Ezk 4:1-3).

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

[This is the first of many object lessons given to us by Ezekiel. It reveals judgment for sin against Jerusalem. Picture it as a Play-Doh war zone]

Ezekiel places a clay brick with a map of Jerusalem etched on it. He molds a wall around the brick; toy soldiers surround the brick with siege ramps and battering rams. Then Ezekiel places in iron griddle between himself and the Play-Doh city under siege.

The point here is that no wayward sinful heart can escape from the city. The image demonstrates how harsh the siege against Jerusalem will be. It pictures a warning to the people of Israel.

Jesus spoke in parables. Often the prophets spoke through object lessons. All were done to make a spiritual point about God‘s love and plans for man. God always intends to break the wayward heart because he is merciful. Lord, open our (my) eyes to your merciful warnings concerning the siege of sin and judgment.

Pursuit of God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Live a life of unqualified pursuit of God (Ezk 3:22,23). #PursueGod #ReverenceForGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel has been called and appointed by God to the office of Prophet (v17a). He has been given a charge to speak quickly, boldly and truthfully whatever message God gives him (v17b). Now Ezekiel is directed to remove himself to a valley-plain (perhaps the valley where his vision of dry bones occurred – 37:1).

Having removed himself to said valley, Ezekiel sees the same vision of God on his chariot-throne as in chapter one. Seeing God in all his glory, Ezekiel falls down on his face prostrate before God. Lord, I see in a man, Ezekiel, one who models for me an unmitigated reverence for God.

Speak When Directed

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May you listen when God speaks; speak when he directs (Ezk 3:17-21). #DeliverGod’sMessage #ListenWhenGodSpeaks

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God has issued his call to Ezekiel to the prophetic ministry. He is to be a “watchman” over Israel. God instructs Ezekiel to speak without delay, any message that God gives him. It matters not whether the message is to the wicked or to the righteous who have stumbled. Ezekiel is to tell them to turn to God or suffer the consequences; even death.

God informs Ezekiel that he is responsible for getting the message out. If he does, and the people listen and repent, they will be saved, as well as Ezekiel. If Ezekiel does not tell them, they will die in their sin and God will hold Ezekiel accountable for not delivering the message. Lord, may I listen when you speak to me and speak if you so direct me; lives will depend upon it.

THE WATCHMAN

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May you hear and surrender to God‘s call (Ezk 3:16,17). #HearingGodsCall #UnderstandingGodsCall #SurrenderToGodsCall

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

After two and one half chapters (53 verses) and one bodacious vision of God‘s absolute glory, Ezekiel‘s call from God to his prophetic ministry is articulated (1 verse). “Son of man, I [God] have appointed you as a watchman for Israel. Whenever you receive a message from me, warn people immediately” (v17).

The task of the watchman was to stand guard on the wall of the city and warn the people of any approaching danger. As a spiritual watchman, Ezekiel‘s task was to warn the people of the judgment to come if they did not turn from their sin back to God.

Lord, this aged prayer sentry must honor your time and resources invested in me by surrendering to you daily for whatever work I am called upon to do.

___________

I count 9 separate calls of God upon my life. Here’s a time line:

Devine Movement

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Trust God to be always present and always working (Ezk 3:12,13). #ExpectDevineMovement #SeekingTheLordOfGlory #DevineEncounters

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

While Ezekiel is trying to absorb his vision of God in his flying chariot throne, he is transported (lifted up). He seems startled. Verse 14 expresses his disconcertment as turmoil. He was mentally startled.

The throne of God is moving. The living beings are arosed and the great wheels begin turning. There is a thunderous noise as the glory of the Lord is lifted up. Ezekiel himself is lifted up by the same spirit in Ezk 2:2. He is transfixed as like in a trance; dazed and bewildered. Yet, he is safe at the center of Devine movement.

Lord, I have never had any vision like Ezekiel’s. But I have seen Devine movement at work at crucial times in my life.

Throwing Stones

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we walk the walk before we talk. (Ezk 3:10,11) #WalkTheWalkB4UTalk #DoWhatYouSay #CastingStones

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Advice to any student of scripture: God says, “Let all my words sink deep into your own heart first (recall Ezk 3:1-3). Listen to my words carefully for yourself. Then go to the people and say this is what the Sovereign Lord says.“ Especially teachers and preachers take note. “Let him or her without sin cast the first stone” (Jhn 8:7).

Before you go expounding and exhorting, make certain that you yourself have listened to God’s message with a heart turned towards obedience. Do this before telling others what God says they are to do (1Co 9:27). Lord, as a dad, granddad and minister of the gospel, may I be first to listen and respond to the truth of Scripture.

Not Intimidated

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May you be fearless in the face of gospel critics (Ezk 2:6-8). #Obedience #TrustGodForResults #StandFearlessForGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God reinforces the thought that his people will not respect the words of the prophet. Worse, they will scoff at Ezekiel – brutal with their rank criticism. But Ezekiel should not be afraid, back down or emotionally shattered by their words.

Ezekiel 3:9 says that God had made Ezekiel just as hard-headed as the people.

God further warned Ezekiel that not speaking his message would be equivalent to joining them in their rebellion. Ezekiel was ultimately a fearless prophet. He stood powerfully before an unbelieving people and delivered God‘s message. Lord, I surrender my feelings to you; may I not be intimidated by those who criticize me over the gospel.

Ready, Go for God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Be ready to go for God today (Ezk 2:1,2). #GodSpeaks #GoForGod #StandWalkRun

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When we have worshiped, been before God on our face, God does not expect us to stay prostrate, paralyzed, on the ground. No, we must then stand and be ready to go on in humble service. Micah 6:-8 compels us to “WALK humbly before God.” Roman 12:1 leads us to present our bodies as living sacrifices in honorable SERVICE to God.

Ezekiel was renewed in his spirit (note Isa 40:29-31). The Lord stood him on his feet. This was a sign that he was ready to go for God. Humble worship leads to faithful service. Lord, coming out of my daily personal cathedral of praise, my heart is renewed. I am ready to go for God today.

How To Hear God’s Voice

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Humble your heart to listen to God (Ezk 2:1). #ListenForGod’sVoice #GodSpeaks

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This is the call of God on Ezekiel‘s life. I am reminded first that there is a separation between man and God. “Son of man“ is a reminder to Ezekiel (and to me) that he is a man and nothing more. But he is a man with whom and to whom God will speak.

God saw Ezekiel‘s humble response to the vision in Chapter One. To “stand up” (as God here instructs), one must first go down (Ezk 1:28) in humble acknowledgment of God‘s presence. Humble hearts will illicit the voice of God speaking. Lord, my Morning Watch is dedicated to an open heart to listen to your voice.

A Marked Man

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Be alert to, listen for, God‘s call on your life (Ezk 1:28). #MarkedMan #AlertToGod’sCall #MarkedByGod’sGlory

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel here mentions that he hears a voice for the second time. The first reference to a voice (v24) seems to be unintelligible. But here, the voice was speaking directly to Ezekiel. God is preparing to call Ezekiel and instruct him in his prophetic ministry.

The entire first chapter has set the stage and will carry Ezekiel through his entire ministry. He will never think of God again without a sense of awe, holy fear and wonder. “The man of God comes out from [HIS] presence indelibly marked by the glory of his Lord.” *

Lord, reading in this Old Testament book, may I be a man alert to your call and marked by your glory.

____________

* Taylor, John B. EZEKIEL, An Introduction and Commentary. Downers Grove, Illinois: Inter-Varsity Press, 1969), 41.

Surrender – No Reservations

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Surrender in obedience to the radiant Lord of Heaven (Ezk 1:26-28). #SeeGodInNewWays #Surrender #RadiantLordOfHeaven #RevereGod’sTruth-Faithfulness

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel‘s initial impression of God’s throne is taken with its azure-blue appearance. He is then taken with a figure that looks like a man on that throne. The upper body was glowing like amber, flickering like fire. The lower body looked like burning flames shining with great splendor. Around the entire image of this throne was the appearance of a rainbow-like brilliance. Its radiance engulfed the vision in multicolored splendor.

All of this would seem to point to the judgment of God (the fire) and at the same time the covenant of peace that comes after the judgment (the rainbow). This would seem to express the focus of Ezekiel’s prophetic call. He would see it again three more times (3:22,23; 8:3,4; 43:2,3)

I am left without imagination enough to express my thoughts. I read the words and know their definitions. But I am left dumb at how to express them. Lord, my only response is to just fully surrender in obedience to you. No reservations.

My “Blue” Heaven

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Walk in reverent fear of God‘s truth & faithfulness (Ezk 1:26-28). #SeeGodInNewWays #Truth #GodIsFaithful #RevereGod’sTruth-Faithfulness

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Every prophet of God has a call that is unique to them. Ezekiel‘s call stands alone as a vision of the likeness of God in all his glory. Ezekiel describes God and his throne. It’s made of brilliant blue lapis lazuli (blue sapphire). The heavens declare his glory (Psm 19:1).

Biblical sources reveal sapphire (the color blue) as representative of truth – the accuracy and sincerity of God‘s word.* It’s the ground upon which God’s feet rest (Exo 24:10). I come away with an overwhelming sense of sheer reverence for the God I serve, his faithfulness and authenticity.

Lord, may my walk before you exemplify that reverent honor for your truth & faithfulness.

_______

* Sapphire is blue in color. In the Bible the color blue or sapphire stones may represent God and things dedicated to a holy purpose (Exo 24:10; Ezk 1:26; Num 4:5,6; Rev 21:19). Blue may also represent things like the Spirit, heavenly visitation, heaven itself, grace, truth, faithfulness and cleansing.

[There is more material here than I can write about. I have given 4-6 hours over several days pondering the meaning of these things.] Here is one link that has been helpful:

https://biblemeanings.net/sapphire-spiritual-meaning-bible/

On My Face

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we exercise silence & humility before God (Ezk 1:26-28). #SplendorRevealed #SeeGodInNewWays #SeeGodExalted #Overwhelmed

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel has been focused on the lower portion of his vision: living beings, wheels, lightning, noise, fiery presence and movement. He now sees, hears and tries to describe what he sees above the platform borne up by the living beings. He sees a throne. Its appearance is like blue lapis lazuli (sapphire).

Upon this throne sits what looks like a man, represented as gleaming amber and a splendorous burning flame. All around this figure is a glowing halo (like a rainbow). In Ezekiel’s words this is, “God sitting on his throne of jeweled sapphire, in all his glory and holiness.” The vision’s sight and sound presses the limits of vocabulary to the max. Ezekiel falls on his face in silence before God.

Lord, may I be on my face and speechless, my mouth closed, before you (Job 40:3,4; Psm‬ ‭19‬:‭14‬;‬‬ Hab 2:20).

Take a Knee to Glory

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Bow, low in the presence of God‘s glory (Ezk 1:24,25). #SplendorRevealed #SeeGodInNewWays #SeeGodExalted

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel now describes what he is hearing. What he hears is as dreadful (awe-inspiring) as what he sees. It is a noisy whirring sound. The wings of the cherubim are outstretched and reverberating powerfully. It sounds like the torrent of wild rushing waters or rolling thunder; the sound of a mighty Army on the move.

Ezekiel also hears a voice from above the mighty platform described in vv22,23. However, no words are mentioned here. The sight and sound of this vision seem splendorific. It is at once both dreadful and magnificent at the same time.

Lord, may my heart and knee be bowed in the light of the glory I can barely comprehend.

God Exalted In Life

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we see God exalted, lifted up, in our lives (Ezk 1:22,23,26). #SplendorRevealed #SeeGodInNewWays #SeeGodExalted

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The four living beings (cherubim) in Ezekiel‘s vision appeared to be lifting or escorting a great heavenly platform over their heads. It looked like ice or crystal and was gleaming in a formidable yet awe-inspiring way. God’s throne sat upon or above it. When the beings moved, the entire platform moved with them (v19-21). Moses and 70 others saw something similar [Exo 24:10,11).

The Apostle John also saw something close to Ezekiel’s vision as well (Rev 4:1–11). Our God is exalted high above the Earth. He reigns in a heavenly bliss, above the corruption of earth. Yet, he has revealed his true heart for earth (for man) in Christ (note: Phi 2:6-11).* Lord, you reveal yourself to man (to me) as exalted above all the earth.

________

* Jhn 1:1,2,14; 5:18; Rom 8:3; 14:11; Eph 1:20-22; Col 1:15–20; Heb 1:3,4; Isa 45:23.

To Know God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Seek to know God in new ways (Ezk 1:22-28). #SplendorRevealed #SeeGodInNewWays

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I can hardly imagine what Ezekiel must have been experiencing as this vision of God unfolds before him. I am struggling to wrap my brain around what he must have been seeing. The enormity and expanse of it, the splendor and the magnificence of it is beyond what the human mind could imagine or comprehend.

My initial response is to close my Bible and go find something easier to read. But I know that our God wants to be known. Jesus proves that. Lord, may I push past not knowing, not understanding, may I know you in a new and meaningful way.

Serve With Quiet Resolve

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Remain open to God‘s sovereign will in your life (Ezk 1:19-21). #God’sSovereignRule #QuietResolve #Surendered

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

There is no lack of spiritual explanations for the movement of the living beings described by Ezekiel. But everything described thus far prepares us for what will follow. These cherubim support some kind of horizontal surface, upon which our deity (God) is enthroned (vv26–28). The entire structure moves as our God instructs these cherubim.

The will of these beings is harnessed by God . They serve at his command. Their will (or “spirit“) exists in the wheels. The cherubim remain still, as if motionless. The wheels alone move this heavenly chariot-throne in all directions and up and down. This would seem to represent our God as not being bound by any earthly model. They whose will is surrendered to him, serve with a still, quiet and peaceful resolve (Isa 26:3).

Lord, may my will be so surrendered to you that I may serve you quickly and with quiet resolve.

Omnipresence Of God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Welcome God‘s presence into all of your affairs (Ezk 1:15-18; Psm 139:7-12). #OmnipresentGod #GodSeesAllThings #GodKnowsAllThings #OmniscientGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel describes four sets of two wheels each. One is able to turn crosswise inside of the other of each. These wheels shown like crystal (they sparkled). Each living being had its own wheel. These wheels enabled this [heavenly chariot of God] to move in any direction (see vv 25-28 & Psm 104:1-4].

There is no shortage of artist’s depictions of Ezekiel’s vision of God.

These wheels, while sparkling, were also “frightening.“ They were very tall and covered with eyes. God is seen seated on his throne above the wheels (vv25-28). These images reveal that God is present everywhere, and sees all things. He is over all things and is present with us everywhere we go (omnipresent – Psm 139:7–12).

Lord, you are present in all of my affairs; I welcome your presence in all that I do.

Show Me

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Call upon God for understanding of the Scriptures (Ezk 1:10-12). #ShowMeLord #CallUponGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

It is difficult to know exactly the meaning of the four faces on the living beings described by Ezekiel. The most obvious leads me to creation: the human face being the apex of God‘s creation (intelligence), the lion’s face represents the wild animal kingdom (power), the ox face the livestock domesticated animals (service) and the eagle, the king of the air (swiftness).

The four heads connected form the shape of a square. They may represent the four corners of the earth and God‘s sovereignty over all of creation. Other interpretations also exist but these seem the most likely. In truth, Ezekiel is trying to describe something he’d never seen before. The word picture given by Ezekiel is incredibly luminary and mysterious at the same time. Lord, I call upon you for understanding of the mysteries of your word (Jer 33:3).

Seeing The Glory of God, Prt 2

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Give thanks for the intentional presence of God (Ezk 1:4). #GodsGlory #Worship

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Life Application Study Bible notes on this verse point to the fact that Ezekiel was far away from the Temple in Jerusalem. It was a physical symbol of God‘s presence with his people (he was a captive in Babylon).

The the ominous dark cloud, lightning flashing, brilliant light, and appearance of fire, glowing, like burnish metal in the center of the cloud, revealed God’s very presence with him. He was, as I am, reminded that God rides with us everywhere. No matter where we find ourselves physically or spiritually, God is present.

Lord, I thank you for your ever present attention to me.* This old sentry is never far from your grasp (v3; 2:9; 3:14,22; 8:3).

_______

* God makes his presence known through his word, his indwelling Holy Spirit and the presence of godly friends around me.

When I was in Vietnam, I thought I was too far gone, that the presence of God had certainly departed. But not so. See my testimony, this blog – https://theprayersentry.com/2023/03/23/window-of-opportunity/

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.

Raising The Ire Of God

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Follow through on your vows/promises made to God (Jer 34:12-17). #DoWhatYouSay #FollowThroughMatters #MeanWhatYouSay

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

If anyone should be grateful for their freedom, it should be these old testament Hebrews. God reminds them that he made a covenant with their ancestors who were slaves in Egypt. He would free them…which he did. At that time he told them they must never hold a fellow Hebrew as a slave for longer than six years. Then they must free them.*

Here, the people pledged to return to that covenant (vv8-11). They released all their countrymen slaves, but then immediately went back on their pledge and re-enslaved them. I think that nothing raises the ire of God more than lying to him. For this, God WILL carry out his pledge to judge Judah. Lord, may my heart always keep covenant promises with you.

___________

* Note: Exo 21:1–6; Lev 25:39–43; Deu 15:12–15

Do What You Say

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

When you say, “Yes“ to God, follow through (Jer 34:8-11). #DoWhatYouSay #FollowThroughMatters #MeanWhatYouSay

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Just prior to the Babylonian conquest of Judah, the king, Zedekiah, has a change of heart about fellow Hebrew slaves in the land. His motivation is unknown, but he makes a covenant with the people to follow the Hebrew law (ignored for hundred of years) and free their countrymen slaves (Exo 21:1–6; Lev 25:39–43; Deu 15:12–15).

The people obeyed, but then later reneged and brought their fellow Hebrews back into bondage.* It is obvious that Zedekiah and the people were not wholeheartedly following God‘s commands to them; more evidence of their coming judgment. Lord, may my oft wayward heart willingly follow your loving commands.

_______

* Speaking to unbelieving Jews again in the New Testament, Jesus speaks a parable to this same effect in Mat 21:28-32. If you tell God, “Yes”, just do what you say.

Reason To Praise

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Praise God for his mercies towards man (Psm 113:5-9). #PraiseAndWorship

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Our God, the God of Heavens Armies, is not so exalted that he is adverse to lowering himself to affect the affairs of man. He helps the poor and needy man. He exalts those of humble means and makes of them royalty. (see also Isa 57:15).

The woman of childless disdain, God has power to bless them with children (e.g. Gen 21:2; 1Sa 1:20). The greatness and goodness of our God is reason to praise, exalt and highly esteem him. Lord, I honor you as my God; you created me, you sustain my life and you assure me of my eternal call and destiny.