Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#6 THE VEIL (Prt 2)
Veil Before the Holy of Holies
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Understand the cost of our redemption (Heb 9:3). #JesusDiedForOurSin #JesusIsTheDoorToLife
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The curtain (veil) between the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place (the Holy Holies) blocked access to God to all but the high priest. For the high priest access was limited to once a year, on the Day of Atonement. When Christ died on the cross this curtain was rent (torn) in two, representing the body of Christ, torn and crucified (Heb 10:19–22; Mat 27:51).
The wall of separation between God and man was torn down. Access through Christ, our High Priest, to a holy God was opened (6:18–20). We may now ourselves come confidently into God‘s presence at any time (4:16). Lord, I am grateful for the price you paid for my access to God; your torn and crucified body.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#6 THE VEIL (Prt 1)
Three Veils, Three Doorways Into God’s Presence
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Understand, appreciate what Jesus has done to open the door to a relationship with God (Heb 9:3). #WayTruthLife #JesusIsTheDoorToLife
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Three curtains (veils) are represented in the Tabernacle. Taken together, they all represent separation between God and man. There was only one entrance (gate or door) through each veil.
There was one door from outside the Tabernacle into the “Outer Court,” another from the Outer Court into the “Holy Place“ and a third from the Holy Place into the “Holy Holies.“ These doors represent Jesus who is the door to Salvation, the way of salvation (John 10: 7–11). Jesus has opened the way to intimate fellowship with God.
Lord, thank you for the sacrifice you made that I might experience a face to face relationship with Jehovah God.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#5 Golden Altar of Incense
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Rest secure in Christ for your acceptance before a holy God (Heb 9:3,4). #ChristOurEternalIntercessor #JesusEverLivesToInterceedForUs #AcceptedInTheBeloved
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The Golden Altar of Incense, altar of prayer, was located just outside the veil shielding the Holy of Holies.* Annually (on The Day of Atonement) the high priest, as mediator between God and the people, would stop at this altar and offer prayers. He sprinkled the Altar with the blood of sacrifices made for sin and confessed his sin, which made him acceptable to come into the presence of God in the Holy of Holies. Then he confessed the sins of the people.
The Altar was made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold symbolizing the humanity and divinity of Christ, our eternal intercessor (Heb 7:25; Jhn 17:17-20), [Jesus lives forever to intercede with God on [our] behalf].
Special incense was burned twice a day on this Altar. The aroma filled the room. The smoke of the incense rising was symbolic of prayers offered up to God. They were a sweet aroma to him (also note Rev 5:8; 8:3,4).
All of this symbolizes the blood sacrifice of Jesus offered up for our sin once for all time. As our mediator (1Ti 2:5), he prays for us. Further, he makes it acceptable to God for believers to enter into God’s presence and offer our own prayers and intercessions directly to him (Heb 4:16).
Lord, may I rest in the acceptable sacrifice you made for the forgiveness of my sin; for making my prayers in your name acceptable to God.
* There are questions about the translation here. The instructions of Exodus 30:6 and tradition locates the altar “before“ the veil shielding the Holy of Holies.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament no Jo system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#4 TABLE OF SHEWBREAD (Prt 2)
This Tabernacle furnishing may be the most intimate picture of God’s relationship to and concern with man, next to the Mercy Seat.
Table of Showbread & Bread of Presence
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Feed daily on the Bread of Life – Jesus (Heb 9:1,2). #JesusIsTheBreadOfLife
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The Table of Shewbread (in the Holy Place) was constructed of acacia wood and overlaid in gold (Exo 25:23–30; 40:22,23). The humanity of Jesus is pictured here buy the wood; His divinity pictured by the gold. Jesus is the god-man,. The bread, symbolizes God‘s presence and provision in my life. It reflects my life in Christ. I am sustained eternally by the life of Christ in me.
Jesus said, “I am the bread of life…I am the living bread come down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever” (Jhn 6:47-51). Just as the priests were invited to eat the Shewbread, so also I am invited to eat of the Bread of Heaven. Lord, I have tasted this bread of life and have entered into the sanctuaries of heaven in Christ.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#4 TABLE OF SHEWBREAD (Prt 1)
This Tabernacle furnishing may be the most intimate picture of God’s relationship to and concern with man, next to the Mercy Seat.
Table of Showbread & Bread of Presence
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Come to God’s table of fellowship; eat of the Bread of Heaven (Heb 9:1,2). #KnowGodsPresence #KnowGodsProvision
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The “Table of Shewbread“ stood in the Holy Place, opposite the Lampstand. Exodus 25:30 calls the showbread the “Bread of Presence” [the literal meaning is “face bread”]. The loaves’ shape (high sides, hollowed out in the middle) appeared to have many sides (or faces). It was a symbol of God’s presence.
Twelve loaves were prepared every week (never ending supply). The bread lay upon the table in two piles of six loaves in each. Taken together they symbolize the food that comes from God; his never ending provision for the twelve tribes of Israel as they journeyed in the wilderness. The priests ate of the bread in never ending supply. It further represents spiritual food derived from God’s Word.
Father, I recognize the intimacy of my relationship with you, symbolically, as I come to your table to eat. I receive a never ending supply of spiritual food from you in your Word.
Eternal redemption for man was foreshadowed, pictured, in the Old Testament system of worship and furnishings placed in the Jewish tabernacle built by Moses. In the tabernacle there stood artifacts (furnishings). These furnishings were utilized and maintained by the high priest. All of these foreshadowed (symbolized) the coming eternal redemption of man, ushered in by Jesus Christ. He has become the high priest of our faith, of that better covenant named in Hebrews 7:12; 8:6 and Jeremiah 31:31-34.
These journal notes in no way exhaust the depth of meaning found in the Tabernacle. The writer of Hebrews does not even go into the depth of the possible meaning of all these things. My heart here is to uncover as much as possible in a few words, as might stimulate further inquiry and greater depth of faith.
#1 THE BRAZEN ALTAR
The Brazen (bronze) Altar
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Express profound gratitude to Jesus for the sacrifice he made for our sin (Heb 9:1–5,14,15). #JesusIsOurSacraficeForSin
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
This passage explains in part the arrangement of the Jewish tabernacle rooms and furniture. In the outer room stood the bronze altar of sacrifice (Exo 27:1-8). Bronze is a symbol of sin. The altar was where only perfect animals were sacrificed for sin. A fire burned perpetually in the altar. It represented God’s judgment of sin.
The slain animals (a substitute for man) were consumed by fire as an atonement for sin – satisfying God’s judgment. Jesus was our perfect sacrifice for sin. He died on a cross (his Bronze Altar) in our place to satisfy God’s judgment against sin (Rom 3:25; 1Pe 2:24; 1Jh 2:1,2). Father, I am profoundly grateful for the sacrifice Jesus made for my sin – that I might be reconciled to you.
Remain open to the inward change Christ brings (Heb 8:8–12). #GoodChange #ChangeForGood
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer of Hebrews has carefully explained how Christ is superior to angels, to Moses (the greatest prophet) and to the entire Jewish temple priesthood (Chs 1-7). All this necessarily means that the old covenant (system of laws and sacrifices) must give way to the new and superior covenant (where mercy and grace prevail). The prophet Jeremiah predicted this and our writer quotes the entire passage to make the point (Jer 31:31-34).
These Hebrew Christians, and we today, needed to understand that Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross changed everything about the Jewish system of laws and rules. God would seek to change all men’s hearts and not just their behavior. Men would follow God out of love and not out of fear. This is not a matter of denying the old, but of explaining it with a new understanding. That is what the Tabernacle symbolism is all about.
Lord, what this old sentry wants is to understand what is mine in Christ and continue growing in that grace.
May we be deeply moved by the person of Christ (Heb 8:1-6).#ANewAndBetterWay
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The Old Covenant was implicit – it implied a once for all sacrifice to come, an eternal and perfect priesthood to come, unlimited access to God to come, and eternal forgiveness to come. In Christ came the New Covenant – his sacrifice for sin, his priestly ministry as perpetual and eternal, his forgiveness and cleansing from sin.
Jesus Christ made explicit what the old system of ceremonial laws, sacrifices and priestly service only foreshadowed implicitly. Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant, replacing it with a New and better Covenant. Lord, this old sentry is renewed and left deeply affected with awe and reverence for what Christ has accomplished.
May we grasp the realities of symbols pointing to heavenly promises (Heb 8:1-6). #IsThatAllThereIs #ThereIsMore #BeyondTheVeil
God told Moses, “Build it according to the pattern I gave you.”
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Men contemplate, “Is there something more, something beyond our physical sight?” This world is so temporary. Things change. Nothing remains the same. Thoughtful men ask, “Is this all there is?“ That is what the writer of Hebrews is getting at. There is more!
There is a spiritual, perfect and perpetual reality beyond this world. It is pictured in the Old Covenant. It is pictured in the tabernacle of Moses (and later the temple built by David). These were intended as a pattern, a shadow of heavenly reality where Christ ministers as man’s mediator, in the true place of worship. It is not a place built by frail temporal human hands.
Lord, this aging sentry can see/understand the living permanent reality of a perpetual priest serving in a final and perpetual reality, beyond the veil of my vision.
Rest securely in Jesus for your eternal salvation, nor take it for granted (Heb 7:23–28) #JesusSecuresOurEternalDestiny #JesusOurGuarantee #SecureInJesus
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jesus, our perpetual High Priest, guarantees our eternal salvation. He saves “continually“ and unto the “uttermost“ those who have believed on him (vv24,25).
There has not been a high priest in Judaism since the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem in ‘69–‘70 AD. But the believer is and has never been (will never be) without a high priest.
Jesus is in heaven, in the Holy place making intercession for every believer always and forever (Phi 2:9–11; Heb 4:14; 10:12). He was the sinless, righteous sacrifice made once for all time for all men (vv26,27). Lord, my eternal destiny is secure in the capable hands of my High Priest, Jesus. I do not take for granted the price he paid for that.
Grasp and hold on to the hope you have in Christ (Heb 7:18–22). #PeaceWithGod #JesusABetterWay #LawVsGrace #OpenDoorToGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The law of (the system of, demands of) righteousness was set aside to find its perfection, it’s realization, in Jesus Christ…in Grace. The law gave no one any hope of communion with God. God can no more be a friend to me through the law than a punitive justice system can reach out to an inmate and give redemptive healing to a broken life.
Jesus introduces a better hope. He brings hope and the open door through which I may enter into a redemptive relationship with God (v19). This is the great hope of the Christian faith. Lord, my hope (the hope of my beloved nation) in this life, and the life to come, is in Jesus – he is the promise; the peace, forgiveness, joy and redemption of God.
Find your hope in the perfect sufficiency of Christ as redeemer (Heb 7:15-17) #JesusPriestForever
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jesus Christ is here declared a “priest forever” of a different kind (revealed by the likeness of Melchizedek in Gen 14:17-20 and Heb 6:19,20). How is Christ different?
1) Christ is from a different tribe – the tribe of Judah unlike those of the tribe of Levi (v14).
2) Christ is a priest forever, whereas the old system of priests required new priests to replace those who died (vv3,18,23-25).
3) Christ is holy and blameless, unstained by sin (v26), unlike other High Priests who needed cleansing from sin (vv27,28).
4) Christ’s authority is established by an oath given by God (vv20,21). Jesus Christ is a High Priest forever (Psm 110:4).
Lord my one great hope is in your perfect sufficiency as mediator between God and man.
Embrace the far better hope established in Christ Jesus (Heb 7:11- 20). #JesusOurEternalHighPriest #LawOfWorksOut #LawOfGraceIn
The Dawn of Grace
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
In this passage, the writer makes it clear that the Law and the priesthood of the Law were never intended as a way of works to achieve right standing with God. These were always intended as a foreshadowing of a better hope (vv18,19; Gal 3:23-26).
The priesthood is shown as temporal and replaced by a perpetual, eternal, Priesthood (Christ Jesus). So also the Law was imperfect as to the redemption of man. It was intended as an outward expression of the inner change required for redemption. A new law of Grace was put in the place of the demands of righteousness (Jhn 1:17; Rom 3:21,22; 6:14).
Lord, I see here the sun setting on the Law of righteous demands and the dawn risen on the law of Grace.
Humble yourself before Christ as your redeemer/priest & king eternal (Heb 7:4–10). #ChristOurMediator #ChristOurHighPriest
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer here continues his comparison of Melchizedek to Jesus as an Old Testament type of Christ. His readers must understand this. Melchizedek was not of the tribe of Levi. There was not as yet a Levite born. Levi was still a seed in Abraham’s loins. One could say that when Abraham gave a tithe to Melchizedek (a right of the Jewish priestly class, by the Law of Moses), Levi himself was giving a tithe.
When Abraham received a blessing from Melchizedek, Levi was also, in essence, receiving that blessing. The writer concludes, the lesser one gives to and receives from the greater one. Melchizedek points to the coming Christ who qualifies as our Redeemer, Priest & King. Lord, I humble myself before Christ as my mediator/priest and king eternal.
May you be fully persuaded that Christ is your Redeemer-King (Heb 7:1-3). #FullyPersuaded #SalvationIsInChristJesus
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
What does this king, Melchizedek, in the Old Testament prove to these doubting Jewish believers? Several things: He was a king. He was a priest outside the line of Aaron or Abraham. His name, Melchizedek, means “righteousness.” He ruled in Salem (ancient city of Jerusalem). The name means “peace“). He was a king of righteousness who ruled in peace. This is a type of Christ.
Melchizedek blessed Abraham and Abraham paid a tithe to him, showing him greater than Abraham. He is said to remain a priest forever (no ancestry is recorded – no beginning or end). The Genesis account, written by the great prophet Moses, attributed to him the office of priest of the Most High God (Gen 14: 17–20). He foreshadows the coming Christ (Psm 110:1-4). Even Paul, the consummate Jewish believer, was fully persuaded of Christ’s authenticity (2Ti 1:12-14).
Lord, from these accounts I (anyone) may be fully assured, according to God‘s word, that Jesus Christ is who he claimed to be. I am fully persuaded!
Hope in Jesus who anchors your soul in the bedrock promises of God (Heb 6:19,20). #JesusIsTheAnchorOfMySoul #MyAnchorHolds
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jesus is the anchor of my soul. The anchor may be one of the most iconic symbols of early Christianity (next to the cross). My soul is the ship sailing on the seas of life. Jesus anchors my soul to the bedrock of God’s promises. My hope, my faith, is the chain that secures my soul to the Anchor.
Our Anchor Holds Within The Veil
The anchor, cast into the sea is unseen beneath the water. Jesus, my Anchor, has been cast upwards behind the veil into the Holy of Holies (Heb 1:3; 4:14). There he secures for me the promises of God.* I am there, hid with Christ in God (Col 3:1-4) and forever inextricably secured by him. Jesus is my Anchor, man.
Lord, my hope is built on nothing less then Christ who is my eternal anchor.*
_______
* Hymn: My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less [than Jesus] (especially verses two and three)
V2 When darkness veils his lovely face, I rest on his unchanging grace; in every high and stormy gale,my anchor holds within the veil.
V3 His oath, his covenant, his blood, support me in the whelming flood; when all around my soul gives way, he then is all my hope and stay.
Embrace Christ as your trusted redeemer (Heb 6:19,20). #TrustedRedeemer #AnchorOfTheSoul #JesusIsOurTrustedAnchor #JesusIsOurRefuge
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Three beautiful images of Christ close this section of Hebrews. Jesus is the REFUGE to whom we have fled for protection. With confidence we hold to him in the hope of things to come.
Jesus is an ANCHOR to our soul. He has been cast on the mercy seat of God behind the veil, in the Holy of Holies. There he holds fast to the promises of God on our behalf – we are inseparably tethered to him in those promises.
Jesus is a FORERUNNER, our advance guard. He has gone before us clearing the way for our entrance into the promised Hope of God. Lord, there could be no more clear descriptions of my inextricably secure place in Christ.
1) There is evidence that God keeps his promises (vv13–15);
2) It is impossible for God to lie. His nature is truth (like water is wet).
Two things are certain and unchanging: God’s promises and the veracity of his pledge to keep his promises.
Our hope is in Jesus who is anchored to the these bedrock truths. We may have perfect confidence in this anchor of our soul’s security. Lord, my hope in Christ is secure in the truth, the veracity, of God‘s word.
May you endure by faith and patience to receive the promises of God (Heb 6:13-15). #StandFast #BelieveForThePromise #NoFoolin
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
When God swears an oath by his name I may certainly count on it to happen. Those Hebrew Christians reading this transcript were moving towards the future return of Christ. But they were struggling to endure, to remain alert (vv11,12).
God assured these believers that he keeps his promises. An example from history makes the point. Abraham, by faith, patience and endurance received God’s promise of a son [and many descendants] (Gen 22:16-18; Rom 4:18ff). Though God tarries, I may stand fast assured of receiving his promise – the blessing of Christ’s return (10:35,36).
Be intentionally grounded in faith and ministry; secure hope in Christ (Heb 6:12,13). #BeGroundedInFaith #KnowTheWordOfGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Note the warnings and encouragements given to some floundering Hebrew Christians in Hebrews 5:11–6:10 [Be Intentionally Grounded in faith – grow up, mature in faith, strive to understand Scripture, pursue God‘s purpose, stay alert to error and disbelief, walk steadfast in God’s mission, encourage others in faith and engage in ministry to others]. These things will prevent spiritual dullness and indifference.
This kind of intentional faith and endurance is in the tradition of the many faithful ones who have gone before these and all other believers. They all received the promises of God. Lord, my great hope in Christ is realized in direct proportion to my growth and maturity in faith and engagement with ministry (v11).
Be assured of God’s infinite interest in your life & ministry (Heb 6:10,11). #GodsJournalNotes
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer here expresses confidence in these Hebrew Christians, that they are authentic in their faith; that they will certainly stay the course (v9). Now, he reminds them that God has carefully recorded their every deed (small & unnoticed to large & public).
These believers have unselfishly ministered to others in Jesus name. They continue to do so, making certain the hope for which they have believed. God is more than aware of our service to him. Every single act of ministry every word of encouragement spoken are noted in the Father’s journal.
Lord, I am assured of the Heavenly Father’s infinite interest in EVERYTHING I do and say.
While you still can, strive by faith to understand and follow God’s mission for you (Heb 6:7-8). #WindowOfOpportunity #FulfillGodsPlan #StandingStrongInFaith
Use Your Window
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer is speaking to believers here (vv1-6 describes it beautifully clear). Verses 7 and 8 illustrate a principal of discipline in the believer’s life. When rain falls on a field, it bears fruit. If that same field bears only thorns, thistles and weeds, the farmer burns the worthless brush away. I don’t conclude this to mean that believers will lose their salvation or maybe they weren’t believers to begin with (read vv1-6 again).
My understanding and life experience of this leads me to conclude that believers who are rebellious, unwilling to listen to God and grow to maturity (5:11) are in danger. They have “fallen aside from,” “side-stepped,” their responsibility, their opportunities to be productive for God. They bring harm to the work of the Kingdom. God WILL bring correction and judgment on his children for their own good. Heb 3:12-19 is evidence of that. (Also note 1Co 3:12,13; 2Co 5:9-11)
Lord, may I never miss a window of opportunity to grow in my faith and obedience to you.
________
THIS SENTRY’S TESTIMONY:
“Last Call”
God is serious about his children’s growth and obedience.
As an eight year old boy I gave my heart to Jesus. That’s when I met the Lamb of God. I had some growth in my early years. But later, in spite of my faith and upbringing, I became rebellious.
In college my life went completely off the rails. God often spoke to my heart, but I would not listen. I’ll spare you the details, but I wanted God to butt out of my life. I spurned my faith. Yet, in the deepest recesses of my heart, I knew that Jesus was tenaciously and compassionately striving with me.
Fast forward: through my rebellion I squandered my college opportunity. I was failing after three years of mischief. I was asked not to return to campus. As a result, I was drafted into the military. I soon found myself thousands of miles away from home in the war torn land of Vietnam.
God was bringing severe judgment and discipline into my life to get my attention. After many previous calls for me to return to him, to mature in my faith, to be used of him, he was about to issue the “Last Call.”
As a believer I was doing more harm to the faith than good. I was “falling aside from,” “side-stepping,” my responsibility, my opportunity to be productive for God. My lifestyle as a “believer” had brought me dangerously close to holding Jesus up to open shame. God was ready to set me aside, leaving the likelihood of my repentance for renewal as a remote and unlikely possibility (Heb 6:6).
On December 28, 1968, I was standing watch in a guard tower. It was in the early morning hours. I was lonely and I was scarred. I had a small New Testament in the pocket of my flak jacket (my church gave it to me before I left – it felt more like a good luck charm to me; maybe it would stop a bullet).
I pulled that New Testament from my pocket. I opened it up to the Gospel of John and began to read: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:” (Jhn 1:1, 4-5, 10-12)
When I read the words, “He came to his own and his own did not receive him”, my heart was deeply convicted. I heard God distinctly speak into my heart. He said to me, “I have come to to you over and over again. You have not received what I have for you.”
In my heart I knew that I was living dangerously close to even more severe judgment than being in a hostile far away country (maybe committing a sin unto death – 1Jn 5:16,17. That’s when God issued what I knew then was my “Last Call.” He said to me, “Tonight you have a choice. You can go home in a body bag or you can go home serving me. The choice is yours and the time is now.”
The next thing I remember, I was on my hands and knees in that guard tower over the Saigon River. I was weeping and asking God to forgive my rebelliousness. I was broken, weeping and confessing sin.
[1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”]
On my knees in that guard tower before God I felt his cleansing touch. It washed me clean from the top of my combat helmet to the bottom of my combat boots. My heart and life was revived in joy and total surrender to God.
[When I was an eight year old boy I met the Lamb of God. At age twenty-one, I met the Lion of Judah. Jesus became the Undisputed Lord of my life.
I never looked back. Life changed for me in that solitary moment of surrender to God. For fifty-five years now God has continuously done gracious undeserved works in my life.
“Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion” (Heb 3:15).
_________
Cry out in humiliation for God to remember his covenant (1Ki 8:46–51). Though undeserving, may his people cry out to God for deliverance.
Choose to set your heart upon Christ who gave his all for us (Heb 5:8-10). #VictoryInObedience #ChooseLifeChoseJesus
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Oh dear soul of mine (Psm 43:5), this precious Savior of mine, this Jesus, left his home in glory (Phi 2:5–8). He CHOSE to limit himself by becoming a man, to be touched by the frailties of humanity. He learned obedience as a man (grew in wisdom and stature as a man – Luk 2:52). Jesus CHOSE to do that, for me. Because of his obedience, God gave him a great victory through sorrow and death to resurrection.
I don’t have a choice about grief or suffering in my life. BUT, I can choose how I will face the defeats, the hurts, and the disappointments of life. I reject bitterness and I choose life abundant. Like Christ, I too can know the blessing and victory of God through my obedience. Lord, like Job, who said, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust him“ (Job 13:15), I choose you.
Rest securely in Jesus, our sinless representative/advocate with God (Heb 5:1-10). #JesusSinlessAdvocate #JesusSinlessPriest #JesusSinlessMediator
High Priest: Represent Men to God; God to Men
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jesus, unlike the high priests of his day – chosen by Roman authorities, qualifies as our High Priest. 1) He was called and chosen of God. Like Aaron in the Old Testament, Jesus was chosen, called by God to be our High Priest (note these references: Heb 1:5; Psm 110:4; Jhn 1:29-34).
2) It is further essential that the High Priest be able to deal compassionately with broken humanity. He must be subject to the life, challenges and sufferings of men, yet without sin.
3) Finally, he would be a man motivated and compelledby God to serve others, pray earnestly for others and sacrifice his life for others.
Jesus qualifies as the sinless High Priest of our faith. Lord, I may rest securely in you as the fulfillment of the role of High Priest, eternally advocating for me.
See also on this blog The Greatest Hope (link here).
Come confidently into God’s presence to receive his mercy & grace (Heb 4:16). #FindingFavorWithGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The word of God exposes me for who I am (vv12,13). I am left without any excuses and guilty before an eternal judge, Jesus Christ. But this judge has already paid the penalty for my sin and guilt (vv14,15). He is my judge and my pardon.
Then, this judge does the unthinkable. He invites me into his chambers. He says, “You may come into my chambers anytime for help. You will always be welcome.” I may confidently come before God‘s throne of grace, beleaguered as I may be, and find grace and mercy in my time of greatest need. He understands who I am and what exactly is my need.
When this sentry loses his way, confounded by his own circumstances, God’s mercy and grace will be given to him in just the right measure, at just the right time.
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Read Heb 4:16 again (Amp Version). Pause and reflect between each phrase.
“Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor]
– PAUSE –
with confidence and without fear,
– PAUSE –
so that we may receive mercy [for our failures]
– PAUSE –
and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].”
-PAUSE-
Consider this blog post, Jesus: Savior-Brother. Link below.
Hold fast to Jesus alone as the cornerstone of your faith (Heb 4:14–16). #JesusOurHighPriest #ReasonToBelieve #HoldFast
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Having established that Christ is superior to angels (1:1–2:18); having established that Christ is superior to Moses and the prophets (3:1–4:13); the author of Hebrews moves on to his final argument. Christ is superior to the Old Testament priesthood.
This discussion points back to the authors opening argument (1:1-3). The eminence of Christ goes before preoccupation with angels and makes his word definitive and beyond all other prophetic revelations. Jesus is God’s son and worthy to be called the high priest of our faith. Lord, you give final credence to the sentry’s faith, to all that I believe. I will hold fast to Christ.
May you believe for the “rest of God;” the assurance of acceptance with him (Heb 4:6-11). #TheRestOfGod #EndWorksZone
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Are you confused about how you may enter into the “rest of God” defined by some ancients going forward into a veritable land of promise? It is a comparison that reveals the consequence of disbelief and not entering into that promised “rest“ – Caution: Wilderness Journey Ahead.
There is another “rest“ for another time. That time is now. Today. The psalmist pointed to a coming “rest“ (Psm 95:7,8). It is the “rest“ of salvation. Believing is still the criteria for this “rest” today. My works will not save or sustain me. Only my resting and abiding in the grace of God. I simply trust fully in God (Eph 2:8,9) – End of Works Zone.
Lord, I am relieved of the uncertainty of trusting my own works for salvation.
May our hearts always be set on God’s gracious rest (Heb 4:1–5). #KnowRest #RestInGod #Believe
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer in this passage says it again…in case you didn’t get it the first couple of times: God’s rest is still available. Even though some will never experience it. This same rest announced to the ancient Hebrews is available to us today. “GOOD NEWS!“ But only those who believe will share in the rest of God.
BTW, this rest has stood since the beginning of time. God has always provided a rest of faith to those who believe. But be reminded again what scripture says. In essence: No faith in God, no rest in God. The risk is not in believing, but in not believing. Lord, may my heart always be set on belief and the rest of God.
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.
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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]
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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!
The Prayer Sentry 