Distracted?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Stay focused on the truth of God’s word and a life devoted to him (1Ti 1:3-7). #Distractions #ChasingRabbits

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Apostle Paul writes this personal letter to a young man, his protégé, Timothy, pastor of the church in Ephesus (vv1,2). Foremost on Paul’s mind (speaking fatherly advice to anyone with authority) is that Timothy not be distracted by those who promote trivial controversies. These are folks who would rather chase rabbits than do something constructive.

Instead, the task is to lead God’s people (family, associates, etc), by teaching and example, to be filled with love. That can only happen if they are led to have a pure heart (humble and compassionate), a clear conscience (be right with God and man) and to live a genuine faith (undiluted trust in the truthfulness of God for life and practice).

Lord, prevent the sentry on duty from being distracted from the truth of the gospel and living a life devoted to you.

No Place To Hide

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Comprehend God’s animus towards sin, but love for the sinner (Isa 66:18,19a). #GodHatesSinButLovesTheSinner #GodWillJudgeSin #RepentReturnToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah makes it clear that, though God’s enemies (disobedient ones) go hiding to commit their sacrilege in private places (17), he sees their sin. He knows clearly who they are, where they are and what they are doing (men love [their private] darkness rather than light for their deeds are evil (see John 3:16-21). Nothing escapes God’s knowledge (Luk 12:2; Heb 4:13).

Isaiah also alludes to a future time (not clear when) that God will hold to account and destroy all his enemies. Every nation will be brought together to see collectively this manifestation of God’s glory and the absolute deliverance of those devoted to him. Lord, you have known my every weakness, sin and failure. Yet, by grace, you loved this old sentry and accepted him in Christ the beloved (Eph 1:6).

Stand Faithful

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

When faith is challenged, remain faithful, put hope in God (Isa 66:5–14). #FindHopeInGod #FindComfortInGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Those who are faithful to God will be severely persecuted. History has proven that to be true. Here, they are persecuted by their own brothers of Judaism. This is likely a reference to the church, “born in a day“ (v8).

Jewish brothers persecuted those believing in Christ. They assume they “honor God“ by such persecution. But, by this, they will be put to shame (v5). To those persecuted God says, “I gave birth to you. I will comfort you and care for you and bless you“ (v8,9,13,14). God will always stand with his people; he stands with his church today. Lord, all my hope and comfort is in you (Rom 15:13; 2Co 1:3).

It’s Not “Karma”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Put your faith in Jehovah God who is sovereign over all destiny (Isa 65 12–16). #NoKarmaHere #ChooseTheGodOfAllDestiny

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God’s people had forsaken God for another path, looking for some out of reach “destiny“ (v11) – the perfect high, the perfect relationship, the perfect job, the perfect education and the like. They put their faith in things that never satisfy. But God is the source of all true destiny (v12). He alone delivers on true meaning in life.

Serving God is to eat of the food of genuine life, to quench our thirst for real meaning; it means to express a spirit of joy and singing, to be a blessing to others and to desire living in truth and living for God. Otherwise our destiny, according to God, will be fraught with meaninglessness, grief and despair. Choosing God as the Lord of all destiny is the clear choice. I reject any idea of “karma” as a path to meaning in life. I choose Jehovah God as sovereign Lord of my destiny.

Faithfulness: The Winning Strategy

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Remain faithful and look to God‘s promises in the midst of troubled times (Isa 65:8–10). #GodIsFaithful #StayFaithful #WinningStrategy

In Israel: Tbe Valley of Achor &
The Plains of Sharon

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In the midst of God’s severe discipline for the sin of Israel and Judah, there will be a remnant preserved; those who have not forsaken God. These will inherit the land they lost in the Babylonian captivity (prophetically speaking here). The beautiful plains of Sharon, overgrown during 70 years of captivity, will once again thrive with flocks and beautiful, peaceful pastures. Even the “Valley of Achor” (means troubled, afflicted) where Israel was once afflicted for the sin of a man called Achan (Jos 7:24; Hos 2:15), would become a source of blessings, peace and joy upon return from captivity.

It is clear that even good people, faithful followers of God, may suffer because of the disobedience of the many in a nation (“good grapes among bad ones”). But God is careful to sort it all out. From this I understand that even in the midst of great trouble and tribulation, God promises blessings to those who remain faithful to him. Lord, may I always follow the winning strategy of faithfulness and depend upon your promises.

No Condemnation

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Understand God’s Word as Good News not bad news (Isa 64:5-7). #GreatestLoveStoryEverTold #GodLovesYou

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah 64:1-5a extols God‘s goodness and awesome deeds. Then in verses 5b–7 we hear that God is angry with us – what horrible sinners we all are. Yet, surprisingly, “No one calls upon God for help or mercy. So God simply allows our sin to run its course in our lives.“

Why is it that we only hear the bad news, “God is angry,“ and fail to hear the Good News, “God is full of mercy?“ The country song troubadour sings, “I just want to read Bible verses and not the Bible versus me.“

The mournful troubadour only hears the Law and knows he can’t measure up. But he keeps trying. He does not hear and know how God loves him and died for his sin. It is not the Bible vs. Me. It is Sin vs. Me (Titus 3:11). “God did not come to condemn the world but to save it (Jhn 3:16,17).

Yes, “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Rom 3:23). “But,” Romans 5:8 says, “God demonstrated his love toward us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now NO CONDEMNATION for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Father, I want the world to see your love, mercy and grace through me. There is hope for the country troubadour.

See also on this blog “Don’t Give Me No Country Song Jesus.”

Spirit Of Liberty

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May we know the unmistakable power and presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives (Isaiah, selected Scriptures and 2Co 3:17). #ComeHolySpirit #TheSpiritBringsLiberty

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah makes reference to the work of God‘s Holy Spirit more than any other prophet in the Old Testament. My Life Application Study Bible lists them. “The Spirit of the Lord: gives wisdom and fosters reverence for the Lord (11:2); gives abundance (32:15); carries out God’s word (34:16); is a counselor (40:13); indwells the Messiah (42:1); prospers God’s children (44:3–5); speaks truth through the prophets (48:16); appoints God’s messengers to proclaim the Good News (61:1); is grieved by sin (63:10,11) and gives rest to the weary (63:14).

We see in the New Testament the fulfillment of every attribute of the Holy Spirit. Thank you Lord for the presence, power and work of the Holy Spirit. Where the Spirit is there is freedom and liberty (2Co 3:17). Every sentry may rely fully upon the Holy Spirit of God.

God Sighting

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Never lose sight of God in your life (Isa 63:15-19). #VisionOfGod #GodInOurSights

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Our sin and rebellion toward God comes at a price. To grieve his Holy Spirit (v10) comes at a price. God‘s presence in our lives is withdrawn, having the effect on the wandering soul as to feeling cut off from God. God allows us, in his providence, to drift off the chosen path (v17).

We become blind to God‘s goodness. We wonder how we could ever have even belonged to him or been known by him. But many there are (I am one) who break through the darkness, remember the God of our youth (v16) and cry out to him for deliverance (v17). Thank you Lord, you never lost sight of me though I, for a season, lost sight of you.

Remembering The God Who Remembers

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Let your anguished heart cry out to God for his love and mercy (Isa 63:10–14). #CallToRemrmbrance #RepentanceTowardGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When we have so grieved the Holy Spirit of God, he will at once abandon us to the consequences of that sin and rebellion. But God is never far away from us (though we may drift a long ways away from him – note Psalm 139:7–12). God will always remember his promises to his people (Isa 63:11 above).

But we too will be brought to our senses as we remember his goodness to us (note the prodigal of Luke 15). This remembrance reveals the heart that is moving to repentance. The wanderer humbly cries out to God in anguish of soul for the Redeemer-Shepherd to once again lead by and fill with his Holy Spirit. Lord, this is the new man in me crying out to you for your love and mercy. God WILL respond.

The Lord, Our Victor

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Open the gates of your heart that the Lord of glory may enter in (Isa 63:1-6; Psm 24:8,9). #ConqueringVictor #ChristTheKing

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah mimics a conversation between a watchman (62:6,7) and a conquering warrior. The conquering warrior, clothes stained and crimson red, approaches. He is coming from the direction of the ancient adversary of Judah, Edom. He approaches with the air of a conquering victor…afraid of nothing and no one.

The watchman hails with some trepidation, “Who goes there? Why are your robes stained in red?“ The warrior replies, “It is I, the Lord, I have won your salvation…your liberty. It is I, the Lord, mighty to save. I have trampled my enemies. I have avenged my people, ransomed them from their oppressors.

I take from this prophecy as fulfilled (the Lord’s ultimate deliverance of Israel from Babylon) confidence to believe the prophetic word of Revelation 19:10-16. The Lord Christ will return as our conquering Redeemer. He will be the final Victor.

A Hearty Thanksgiving

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Make room in your heart for thanksgiving unto God for his redemption (Isa 62:8–12). #Thanksgiving https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.62.8-12.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah says that when God‘s people leave the gates of exile in Babylon they will know a new security and God‘s protection. Such security promotes peace, prosperity, praise and thanksgiving. So raise the banner of God high over the land – look, the Savior is coming! He brings his reward of Redemption.

To the church age and beyond, into the millennial reign of Christ, the people of God will be known as his people – a people redeemed by the blood of the Lamb (1Pe 2:9; Rev 22:12). Lord, on this Thanksgiving Day, I lift my heart and hands to you in praise for your great love and redemption.

What’s Yo Name?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be for sure certain your name’s written in the Lamb’s book of forever life (Isa 62:2-4; Rev 2:17; 21:2). #EternalLife #NewNameWrittenDownInGlory #TheLambsBookOfLife

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In Isaiah‘s prayer, it is revealed to Israel (and to every other nation) that once she has entered into the light of God‘s righteousness, she will get a “new name.” No longer will she be known as “Forsaken“ and “Desolate.” Her new name will be “God’s Delight, God’s Bride (intimate companion“ (see also Isa 56:5).

As it was and is for Israel, so shall it be for the Church Age. The Apostle John tells us that all who come into the righteousness of Christ will receive a “New Name” (Rev 2:17). That name is written in the Lamb’s book of forever life (Rev 21:27). Lord, how awesome it is for the faithful sentry to know that his/her name, “New Name,” is written down into the records of glory.

This great old gospel hymn says it all.

Kenosha, WI – Double Down In Prayer

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be moved to give God no rest; by prayer, seek deliverance of Kenosha, WI from violent unrest (Isaiah 62:6). #RedeemKenosha #GiveGodNoRest #HealANationDivided https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.62.6.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Doubling down on prayer for Kenosha, WI. As a faithful and dutiful watchmen, with Isaiah, I will not rest from prayer in this matter. If it is good to pray for the city of Jerusalem, it is good to pray for Kenosha, good for America.

Hear the Rhyme Of The Watchmen:

“A watchman stands guard on the wall.

If there is trouble he’ll let out a call.

Though none be aware;

Still standth he there;

And his vigil secures one at all.“

Lord, my heart is provoked to stand watch in prayer over the city, over my beloved country.

PRAYER FOR KENOSHA WI

Praying Isaiah 62 over the city of Kenosha, WI.

“Because I love [this city, this country], I will not keep still. Because my heart yearns for Kenosha, I cannot remain silent. I will not stop praying for her until her righteousness shines like the dawn.

The Lord will hold you in his hand for all to see— a splendid crown in the hand of God. O [Kenosha], I have posted watchmen on your walls; they will pray day and night, continually. [They will] take no rest, who pray to the Lord. [May the Lord redeem you by his own strength].

Pray the Lord “will never hand [her] over to [her] enemies. [May no] foreign warriors come and take away [her business, economic and civic life]. [May she] be called [by the name], “The People Redeemed by the Lord.” [May she] be known as “The Desirable Place” and “The City [never] Forsaken.””

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭62:1, 3, 6, 8, 12‬ ‭NLT‬‬
https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.62.1-12.NLT

Rapturous Joy

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

O that you be filled with the rapturous joy of the salvation of the Lord (Isa 61:8-11). #JoyFillsMySoul

Floods Of Joy Roll Like Mighty Billows
In The Sea

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God takes no joy in having disciplined his people for their sin; using the evil intent of a foreign nation to that end. He hates the evil and will deal justly with those who perpetrate such sin. He will ultimately vindicate his people; deliver, bless and honor them. The prophet, having seen ahead to such deliverance, is beside himself with rapturous joy.

So ought the believer in Christ Jesus be full of ecstasy and joy…like bride and groom on their wedding Day, clothed in elegant garments of praise and righteousness, bedecked with jewel and diadem. What rapturous joy doth spring up everywhere at the salvation of our Redeemer. I am reminded of the hope-filled words of the old gospel hymn:

“There’s a light in the valley
Of death now for me,
Since Jesus came into my heart!
And the gates of the city
Beyond I can see,
Since Jesus came into my heart!

Floods of joy ‘oer my soul like sea billows roll, since Jesus came into my heart.“

Enjoy this joyous refrain:

His Riches For My Rags

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Rely fully on Christ to replace your sin & shame with his righteousness (Isa 61:7) #GarmentsOfPraise #GreatExchange #RagsToRiches https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.61.7.AMP

The Great Exchange: A Garment of Righteousness For My Shame

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah 61:7 summarizes verses 3–6. It expresses a marvelous exchange of joy for shame and dishonor, a double portion of joy at that. In context the nation of Israel will be delivered from Babylonian captivity and find herself immeasurably blessed among the nations.

But the prophetic future here describes a spiritual Israel, life in the kingdom of God. The Messiah, Jesus Christ (described in vv 1,2; see Luk 4:18-22) will deliver beauty for ashes, blessing for mourning and praise for despair. Lives will be rebuilt, remade, in the righteousness of Christ (note 2Co 5:21).

Lord, thank you for the precious treasure of Christ’s righteousness given the duty sentries, in exchange for our sin and shame.

Faith Affirmed

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May you believe and follow Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy (Isa 61:1,2). #JesusFulfuillsProphecy # https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.61.1-2.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Somewhere around 650 BC Isaiah penned this prophecy. 700 years later a Jewish carpenter from Nazareth, named Jesus, stood and read these words in temple worship…

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him“ (Luk 4:18f).

In the middle of verse two he stopped and said, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing“ (Luk 4:21). Everything about that day in worship was normal until Jesus stopped here and laid claim to these verses for himself as the Anointed One, the Messiah of Israel.

Nothing would ever be the same again. Not the for Jesus, not for the nation of Israel nor the rest of mankind. History was at a pivot point. Three years later Jesus would die on a Roman cross to forgive the sins of mankind and open the door to eternal life. Lord, my faith and belief in you is affirmed. I will follow you to the end as the faithful fulfillment of this prophecy.

Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Be renewed in joyful expectation of the glorious reign of Jesus (Isa 60:19-22; Rev 21:22-25). #MineEyesHaveSeenTheGloryOfTheComingOfTheLord https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.60.19-22.NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/rev.22.6-20.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah continues to prophesy of the marvelous reign of our Redeemer King – God’s Messiah, Jesus Christ. This is his promise to his people. He will stand at the head of the New Jerusalem, exalted (v9). His people, though they have faltered and have known God‘s discipline (v10), will be called the City of the Lord (v14).

God’s people will know him as Savior and Lord (v16). The sun will never set on his people, his Temple, his City (v19,20; Rev 21:22-25). God will be their everlasting and eternal light (v20). God concludes with these words: “At the right time I, the Lord, will make it happen.“

Today, this aged sentry is renewed with the words of that old battle hymn, “Mine eyes have seen the glory of coming of the Lord. Glory, Gory, Hallelujah.”

Wonderful Savior

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Have open eyes and hearts to the Savior, Jesus (Isaiah 59:17–21). #Salvation #Redeemer #Repentance

Yeshuah, Jesus, Weeps & Prays Over Jerusalem

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God’s answer to the sin of men and there inability to save themselves is to send a righteous, sinless redeemer. He will be dressed in righteousness and robbed in Divine passion. He will judge God’s enemies, all of sin and deliver Salvation.

This redeemer Prince from Jerusalem (Yeshuah [Jesus] Rom 11:26), will keep covenant with Israel, save her from her sin. Indeed all of mankind will benefit, from east to west, from the Lord’s salvation. All those who turn from sin will know the salvation of the Lord. Lord, what a wonderful, merciful and thoughtful Savior you are.

God Wonders?

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Bow in humble agreement with God about your sin (Isa 59:15,16). #RepentanceTowardsGod #TotalSurrenderToGod #Redemption https://bible.com/bible/1588/isa.59.16.AMP

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Our sin is so ghastly to God that it leads to his wonder (amazement). But God does not wonder as if he is surprised by new information. I am thinking as I write, “…and who am I, a finite being subject to the limits of my existence, to be trying to explain the wonder/amazement of God at our sin.”

But, my feeble understanding leads me to conclude that God’s extreme disgust with man’s (my) cesspool of sin leads him to an extreme sovereign act of thoughtful concern for man; that if he did not act on our behalf, there would be none who could or would. Lord, I am humbled at the extremity of your concern to do for for man, for me, what we could never do for ourselves.

Overwhelming Mercy

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Let God’s overwhelming love, grace and mercy grip your heart (Isa 57:18). #ExtravagantLove #UnconditionalLove https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.57.18-19.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Although God speaks through Isaiah forcefully about the consequences of unholy worship and sin (Ch 56–58), he is not without abundant compassion for those who turn to him. To them he will give an everlasting name (56:4,5); bring them into his presence and fill them with joy (vv 6,7).

God will restore the crushed spirit of the humble, give courage to the weak and give peace and comfort to the distressed; praise will be on their lips (57:15,18). Extravagant grace and salvation shall overwhelm them. Their light will affect everyone around them and he will satisfy their deepest needs (58:10-12).* Father, I am overwhelmed at your abundant and unconditional love for me.

_______________

* (Optional read from Isa 58:8-14)

Get a sense of God’s overwhelming love, mercy and grace here (paraphrased):

If you will worship me [God] in a spirit of honor, respect toward others, genuine humility and true repentance, Salvation will come to you like the breaking dawn (it will burst in upon you in magnificent glory; you will be in awe).

Your true godliness will cause you to advance and God’s glory will protect you. When you call on me I will hear you and answer quickly. Your light shall shine in the darkness around you. Your own darkness will be bright as noonday. The Lord will guide you continually.

You will have water when you are thirsty and strength when you are weak. There will be a beauty about you like a well watered flower garden. Your life will be an ever flowing spring of water. Some of you will even have the reputation as builders of deserted and ruined cities, builders of bulwarks to protect; restorers of homes/families.

The Lord will delight in your worship; he will give you honor and satisfy you with the inheritance of promises made to your spiritual ancestors.

“I the Lord have spoken!“

Finding God’s Presence

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Oh that we might dwell before God in humility and sincerity (Isaiah 56:6,7; 57:13). #HolyMountain #HolyCity #PlaceWhereGodDwells #PlaceOfPerpetualPrayer https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.56.6-7.NLT https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.57.13.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

What is God’s “Holy Mountain“ and how does one enter into that mountain? The “Holy Mountain“ of God is literally Mt Siniai (Mt Zion). It is the place where God spoke to Moses. Spiritually it is the heavenly Jerusalem, the place where the living God dwells. It represents the presence of God.

Who can enter into that holy place (Psm 15:1–5; 24:3)? the answer is, those who set themselves apart for God, who trust in God, who worship God with genuine sincerity and a contrite heart. What will one find in God’s “Holy Mountain”? The answer is, the presence of God, joy and the perpetual listening ear of God, who will hear and answer prayer. Oh, my Lord, may this old sentry be found worthy to daily enter into your “Holy Mountain.“

Life Source (pt 2)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Joyously worship God at the release of those held captive by sin (Isa 55:12,13). #NewLifeInChrist #JoytoTheWorld https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.13.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah leaves some further thoughts from nature. Consider the “mountains, hills, trees and fields.” They will sing and clap their hands joyously for the captives who have been set free. This prophecy reveals that Israel will come out of 70 years of captivity in Babylon. She will be delivered and returned to her homeland. She will enjoy peace. O, how the creation of God will sing joyously for her.

This prophecy further says that “thorns and pesky nettles will be turned into beautiful flowered plants.” In the same way, the Gospel of peace has the power to change the hardest of sinners. There will be great rejoicing in heaven over every sinner who repents and turns to Jesus (Luke 15:7). God’s word has the power to change lives. My best response is to worship God giving thanks for the captives set free.

Life Source (pt 1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Give thanks for the efficacy of God‘s word to bring new life (Isa 55:9,10). #NewLife #GodsWordWorks https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.10-11.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The natural world teaches me the efficacy of God’s word. Consider the rain and the snow that falls indiscriminately on every part of the earth. The winter snow blankets the earth, melts and waters the soil. In the Spring the rains fall, further watering the soil. We see the effects of these natural phenomenon when tiny buds appear at the end of a branch, or a stalk, or a vine. THERE IS LIFE !

In the same way God’s word goes out in every direction and soaks into the soil of men’s hearts. It waters and nourishes the dry thirsty soul. Then at the right time comes the budding of new life and renewal. God’s word has the power to change lives. Thank you Lord, for your word, which produces life-giving nourishment to every needy soul.

A Priori

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Come to God’s Word with an open heart and mind (Isa 55:8–13). #APriori #PromiseOfRedemption https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.8-12.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Man need look no further than nature and the universe to see the hand of God (Rom 1:20). No mere botanist could command the heavens on a world wide timetable to fertilize the earth for eons. No mere theologian could have divined such a marvelous plan of redemption for all the earth and all the men in it, time immemorial. In fact, they follow after the “a priori“ acts of God.

Men simply study to try and understand what God has already done and/or has spoken through his word. God has ordained all of nature, the universe and his word to honor his name and be an everlasting sign of his power and love. Everything works together to achieve God’s grand purposes. Lord, give me an open heart; this simple sentry cannot wrap his mind around so great a plan of redemption.

Inexplicable Pardon

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Find humility to repent toward God who is steadfast to forgive (Isa 55:8,9). #GodsWaysNotMansWays #Inexplicable https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.9.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Who could grasp the inexplicable ways in which God thinks and acts. We may never understand the “why” or the “ways” in which God acts, on this side of eternity. But we are able to see “how” he acts and “what” he does. He has fully explained himself (all we need to know) in Christ Jesus.

Men find it hard, if not impossible, to forgive…to pardon the offenses of others. The multiplied number of offenses and the degree of offenses converge to make forgiveness impossible for all, all the time. But in God, men can find unlimited pardon. There is still time to humble ourselves and repent. Lord, give this crusty old sentry a humble repentance towards you, your will and your purposes.

“Pardoned!”

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Do not ignore God’s call to deep repentance (Isa 55:6,7). #RepentTowardGod #Pardoned https://bible.com/bible/114/isa.55.7.NKJV

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

For any who would take a solemn pause in their life of sin and rebellion; for those who would resolve to leave a life of sin and return to God, there is full pardon. True repentance will invoke the forgiveness of God.

Imagine a call to inmates in prison – “If you would like a pardon, please see the warden in his office now.“ What inmate would ignore such an invitation? None! The invitation from God has been made. Come now for forgiveness of sin. Lord, thank you for your pardon of my sins and transgressions. I am set free.

Perpetual Well Of Life

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

That your thirsty heart will be abundantly satisfied (Isa 55:1-3). #Above&Beyond #LivingWater https://bible.com/bible/116/isa.55.1-3.NLT

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Isaiah Chapter 55 flows from Redemption‘s story (Ch 53) through the assurances of Redemption‘s victory (Ch 54) and into a grand and glorious invitation to Redemption‘s offer of God’s free gift of life everlasting (Ch 55). Isaiah says, “Anyone thirsty? Come drink freely. Are you hungry? The finest food is available, free.”

Jesus probably had these verses in mind when he said, “and from his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water (Jhn 7:37,38).“ John the Apostle writes from exile, “He [who sits on the throne] said, ‘I will give water of life to the thirsty…freely’“ (Rev 21:6). So The thirsty soul may drink long and often from the well of perpetual life giving water (Jhn 4:13,14). Lord, there could be no clearer invitation in the Old Testament for this thirsty sentry to bring his unquenchable thirst/hunger to you. You will not fail to abundantly satisfy.

By His Might

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

Stand strong in the might of the Lord (Isaiah 54:11–17). #GodIsMyShield #StandStrongInTheLord https://bible.com/bible/111/isa.54.13-17.NIV

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Just as God predicted and delivered Israel from 70 years of captivity in Babylon, he will deliver his church from the grip of this world. There will be a new world order when Christ returns. There will be a glorious new City of God, the New Jerusalem, from which he will reign.

The City of God will be constructed of precious stones. Children will learn and live in righteous peace under God’s tutelage. Any who take up arms against God’s people will be crushed. No weapon forged against his people can or will prevail against them. No charge will be brought against his people. God has said it. It shall be!

Lord, you have given even the weakest watchman the spiritual armor to stand against the evil one (Ephesians 6). No spiritual weapon used against me will succeed, because of your might.

What Splendor Awaits

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION

May we know the splendor of God’s response to hearts renewed towards him (Isa 54:11,12; Rev 21:9-21). #WhatSplendor #GodsHeartForMan https://bible.com/bible/111/isa.54.11-12.NIV

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I am often arrested by the imagery of Scripture. I am halted, at times for days, wondering the meaning of it all (turquoise, sapphire foundations, pearl & ruby gates, mortar made of precious jewels). What splendor for mere men to imagine. Many, smarter than I, have speculated their meaning.

What splendor there is for a shipped wrecked Israel as she repents and discovers again God‘s heart for her. What Splendor awaits the church triumphant in the millennium (Rev 21:9-21). But most of all, what splendor awaits my wandering heart when times of refreshing come to me. Thank you Lord, for your splendid gifts to my repentant heart.