Walk in awe and reverence for a holy God (Heb 12:28,29). #ScorchedEarth #Judgment
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Some have spoken of a “scorched earth“ military policy, or they speak from an environmental point of view. But we have seen nothing like a scorched earth that God, who is a “consuming fire,“ will bring against a godless humanity.
When Christ returns, all of creation (the heavens, the earth and sea) will be done away (Isa 51:5,6; Psm 102:25-28; Heb 1:10-12). This world is not eternal. It will be consumed by the righteous fire of God. The godless will not survive. Only those who have put their faith in Christ will survive (note: Isa 33:1–24; especially vv 14,15). Lord, I dare not ignore the consuming righteous nature of God in my life.
Respond by faith to God’s discipline (Heb 12:5–11). #WhomGodLovesHeDisciplines #GodDisciplinesForOurGood
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
At times we endure suffering at the hands of evil men, just as Christ did. But at other times we endure hardship because of our own disobedience toward God. Like a loving Father, God will discipline his children’s bad behavior.
God’s discipline proves his love for us. His discipline is always for our good, to lead us back into holiness. Discipline is not an enjoyable event, but after it is over, it leads to a good harvest of right living – that is, living according to God‘s will and purposes (1Pe 4:16–19). Father, your discipline in my life has always resulted in good fruit.
Have faith that God will forgive your sin and adopt you into his family (Heb 11:31). #Grace #WhosoeverWillMayCome #PutTrustInGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Who is this woman, Rehab, the harlot who warrants a place on a list of “Who’s Who“ in a Jewish history of great men of faith? She is not even a Jew, but a pagan Canaanite. What’s the point? The point is that “Faith“ belongs to anyone who will put their trust in Jehovah God. The Scriptures say, no one is beyond redemption (Rom 10:10-13).
Rahab, hid two Israelite spies who were spying out Jericho for Joshua. She prophesied Israel’s victory over Jericho (Jos 2:4-10ff). She enabled the spies to escape. She then sought refuge among God’s people (see Joshua Ch 2). A premier proselyte, she became the ancestress to many Hebrew kings and prophets; ultimately to Jesus the Messiah (Mat 1:1-6ff). Lord, thank you for accepting this old derelict sinner into the family of God.
Stop right now; give glory to God who has accepted you (Heb 11:31). #LovedByTheFather #AcceptedInTheBeloved #NeverTooLate
Warning: Chilling Moment Ahead
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
As you get closer to verse 31 in Hebrews chapter 11, one feels a sense of power in the faith of some of the greatest followers of God in ancient history named here. All is moving to a grand conclusion about “faith”.
“By faith” Abel, “By faith” Enoch…Noah…Abraham…Isaac…Jacob…Moses…”BY FAITH RAHAB, THE HARLOT. “Huh?“ “What wha?“ Yep, the final name listed among these great ancients is a woman. Rahab, the harlot, a prostitute (read her story in Joshua Chapter 2).
Either God has a morbid sense of humor or he is serious as to the ultimate reach of the gospel. It is the latter. James T Draper, in his commentary on Hebrews states, “No one is too despicable for God to save, if there is repentance and faith in the heart.“ Lord, I just have to stop right here and give thanks for salvation come to my house (Eph 1:6).
Strive for a faith borne out of a lifetime of experiences listening to God. (Heb 11:27). #GodsWill #ListenToGod #RepentOfYourPlans
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Moses would lead the people of God with a well developed faith, a trust in God that was resolute. The writer says, “By faithMoses left Egypt not fearing the anger of Pharaoh.” Yet, Exodus 2:14,15 says Moses was afraid because Pharaoh wanted to kill him (Moses had slain an Egyptian who was mistreating a Hebrew). There is a lot to unpack here.
Let’s be real. Moses may have had some initial fear. Pharaoh had a contract out on his life (who wouldn’t have some healthy fear?). But it does not necessarily follow, that was what drove him out of Egypt into the wilderness. Scripture says in Hebrews 11, “BY FAITH Moses left Egypt.”*
It was not yet time, nor was Moses ready, to lead the nation of Israel out of Egypt. God lead Moses out of Egypt into the wilderness to do some “woodshedding.” There Moses would learn that he could not slash and burn his way to leadership. He really had no idea yet, what was God’s plan. That would take another 40 years of preparation in the Midian wilderness. Moses was age eighty when he lead Israel out of Egypt (Exo 7:7).
Looking back over my life, it occurs to me that I was in my 40s when I understood that I cannot accomplish God’s plans in my own strength and in my own abilities (slow learner). I had to repent of doing things my way. I had to get schooled in obedience, as Moses ultimately did. I needed a clear awareness of who/what I was and who/what God is and could do through a much humbler version of me.
CAN I GET A WITNESS?
_____________
* Bruce, F.F, Epistle to the Hebrews; The New International Commentary on the New Testament, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., (1964), Pg. 322.
Do not fail to heed the call of Christ to repent and return to him (Heb 10:26–31). #NoDefection #ChooseChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
James T Draper observes here that the Greek word for “knowledge“ is one that certainly means the author is talking to believers.* But they were in danger of defecting back to Judaism. The judgment referred to here is the Judgment Seat of Christ (2Co 5:10). The believer’s life work shall be tested by fire as valid or not. One may be saved, yet every work judged as worthless.
Worse yet, having defected one may have committed a sin unto death (1Jn 5:16,17). The result is that every opportunity to live for and serve God will have been lost; by death or other default life consequences. On December 28, 1968, I faced a choice to either stop my defection from faith or suffer the worst consequence – lose my life in war. I chose life in Christ. I never looked back. Lord, I come with gratitude in my heart for your long-suffering with me.
_______
* Draper Jr, James T. HEBREWS, The life that pleases God. Wheaton, Illinois: Tyndale House Publishers, 1976), Pg. 276-282
Abide secure in the finished work of Christ (Heb 10:11,12). #ItIsFinished#FinishedWorkOfChrist
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The contrast between Christ, our High Priest, and all other priests before him could not be more stark. For centuries the priest of the temple “STOOD“ before God making sacrifices that pictured but never were able to take away man’s sin. When Christ came he gave substance to what was abstruse.
Christ made a single sacrifice (himself for all sin). Then he, “SAT DOWN.“ His work was complete, finished (Jhn 19:30). He “SAT DOWN.” The final work of Redemption was achieved. It is this redeeming message that we preach and give witness to today. Lord, may I remain resting, abiding, in the finished work of Christ at the cross.
100% Receive the 100% promise of sin forgiven & remembered no more (Heb 10:1-4). #100%ForgivenAccepted
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
God had a purpose in the use of animals sacrificed in the confession of sin. It was to remind men of his mercy, grace and love for his people (Psm103:8-12). But instead the repeated sacrifices became a morbid ritual and reminder of how wicked was/is the heart of man. The people felt alienated from rather than accepted by God. Their sacrifices became a means to buy their forgiveness.
It is the same today – except that the sacrifice of Christ has been made once and for all time. Our sin Is washed away and the sinner is cleansed from all unrighteousness. Sin is forgiven and remembered no more. It is the enemy (Satan) who wishes to dredge up all our old sin and bring condemnation (Zech 3:2,3; Jhn 10:10). But “there is now therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom 8:1).
Lord, you have accepted me 100%; my sin is forgiven and remembered I more.
Worship God with a whole and obedient heart (Heb 10:1-4;1Sa 15:22). #HumanNeedTrumpsRitual #ObedienceTrumpsSacrafice
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The NET EFFECT of the symbolism and ritual of the tabernacle, priesthood and the law was to point men to the coming reality of Christ. This symbolism was a “shadow, a dim preview” of things to come. It was never intended to be the end in itself, but merely a means to an end.
All of the symbolism and ritual was never able, in and of itself, to deliver men perfectly from their sin and guilt. What it did do was remind men regularly of their sin, year after year; to remind men that THEIR WORKS & SACRIFICES could never free them perfectly from sin and guilt. But men turned their ritual into the end itself; into a mindless routine. Lord, may my worship of you never become merely heartless ritual.
May you determine early to trust Christ the Savior and Lord (Heb 9:27,28). #NoFutureShock #LiveDieJudgment
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Two things we can count on: Death & Judgment. In thinking about the future I am reminded again of its finality. The ultimate future for every person is not his/her career, financial security, marriage, success, education or family. It is DEATH. Every life culminates there. After that comes our JUDGMENT. We will face Christ, the one who died for our sins.
Only one question remains for us at the moment of judgment, “Have you trusted Christ as Savior and Lord?“ The answer to that question will determine our eternal future. For me that answer is, “Yes.“ I am eagerly awaiting Christ’s return or my own intervening journey into the eternal. There will be for me, no “future shock.“ Lord, my future is in your hands. I put my trust in you for my future destiny.
When I think of my fallen self and how desperately wicked can be my heart, I think of my crucified and risen Savior who has borne my sin and shame and redeemed me to himself.
The sin, which does so easily beset me, has its end in the Cross of Calvary. It drives afresh the nails into my Savior’s hands and feet. My besetting sins do not go unaccounted for. These…
…my sins of commission – to lie, to lust, to speak ill/criticize, to waste time;
…my sins of omission – to disobey by not going when moved, not speaking when prompted, not helping when urged;
…my sins of disposition – envy, pride, anger, evil desire;
All these my sins, and more, go painfully under the shed blood of Jesus on the cross.
My unmerited righteousness in Christ does not come without a price. I cannot flee the failure of sins committed, but I can, in Christ, flee from the sin not yet committed before it besets me. AND EVERY SIN FROM WHICH I FLEE IS THAT MUCH PAIN RELIEVED IN MY SAVIOR’S BODY. FOR EVERY SIN RESISTED IS A SIN FOR WHICH HE DID NOT HAVE TO DIE.
Where sin has abounded in my heart without confession, my precious Savior is left to suffer. For lack of confession is unbelief in his atoning sacrifice, his faithfulness to forgive my sin and cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1Jn 1:9). My confession acknowledges and accepts his sacrifice.
If he did not want to forgive us he would not have died so horrible a death. So believe. Do not carry your burden of sin. He has borne it. Confess it and do not mourn any longer. You are forgiven and accepted in the beloved (Eph 1:6).
(Note this portion from Valley Of Vision, a book of Puritan prayers)
“…if I sin not I should thank thee for it;
“…if I do sin I should be humbled daily under it;
“…I should mourn for sin more than other men do, for when I see I shall die because of sin, that makes me mourn;
when I see how sin strikes at thee, that makes me mourn;
when I see that sin caused Christ’s death, that makes me mourn;”
“…Thou has taught me that faith is nothing else than receiving thy kindness; that it is an adherence to Christ, a resting on him a love clinging to him as a branch to the tree, to seek life and vigor from him.” [To mourn no longer]
“…I thank thee for showing me the vast difference between knowing things by reason and knowing them by the spirit of faith. [Job 42:5,6]
“…By reason I see a thing is so; by faith I know it is.
“…I have seen thee by reason [head knowledge] and have not been amazed.
“…I have seen thee as thou art in the Son [by faith] and HAVE BEEN RAVISHED TO BEHOLD THEE…
“…I bless thee that I am thine in my Savior, Jesus.” [Mourn no longer]
May your heart and love for Christ grow exponentially for his sacrifice for sin (Heb 9:13,14,24–28). #ChristTheLambSacrificedForMan #TheBloodOfChristSaves
The Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The difference between an animal sacrifice for sin and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ is twofold. The sacrifice of animals was temporary; daily, weekly and annually multiple sacrifices were made. Second, the animals had no choice in the sacrifice. They did not know it was coming nor why.
But Jesus chose to die. He shed his blood for the cleansing and forgiveness of sin. His life was not taken. He gave it up willingly. This was the final and perfect sacrifice. No more sacrifices need be made. Christ’s death on Calvary removes all sin once and for all (1Pe 1:18-21). It does not overlook our sin. It acknowledges it as a dark blot before God and receives for all, sin’s judgment – DEATH.
Lord, may my love for you grow exponentially every day for suffering my judgment for sin.
May your heart remain broken for sin (Heb 9:13–23). #HighCostOfRedemption
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
James T Draper says of this passage, that it is, “one of the most remarkable…in the entire Word of God. It’s teaching is at the very center of the gospel of Redemption… ‘Without shedding of blood [there] is no redemption.’” This is at once both extraordinary and violent in our eyes. Death is written all over this passage.
When Adam and Eve Sinned, an innocent animal’s life was taken to give them a covering. When a death angel passed over Egypt, it was the blood of an innocent slain animal smeared on the Hebrew’s doorpost that protected the household. All this pointed towards the shed blood of Christ for man’s redemption from sin.
It is hard for me to take in the violent shedding of blood for my redemption. Yet, it places within me some idea of the high cost paid by an innocent victim for my sin. Jesus willingly gave his life in a violent death for me. Lord, may my heart remain broken for sin.
A SOBER TRUTH: What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
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.
#8 The High Priest
PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH AND NATION
Offer your life in service to Christ for his atoning sacrifice for us (Heb 9:6-15). #JesusOurAtonmentForSin
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The last symbol to speak of in the Tabernacle is the priesthood and the High Priest. It was required of the priests to tend to every facet of the Tabernacle. Every part of it is a reflection of Jesus Christ. It all points to sin, judgment, sacrifice and salvation.
In the New Covenant Jesus Christ is our eternal High Priest. He has offered his own blood as a sacrifice for sin, bearing all the judgment of sin on his back for all humanity. He himself is the sinless one who has atoned for our sin, entered into the holiest place in heaven and is now on his throne as our eternal mediator.
Lord, I am forever grateful for your atoning grace. What more could I offer than my own life in service to you.
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.
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.
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).
Understand your accountability before God (Heb 4:13). #NotMyFaultNoExcuse #AccountableToGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
What is made clear to man in the Word of God (that which both comforts and convicts from the pages of Scripture – Heb 4:12), is also manifest in him to whom all men are accountable (that is, Jesus Christ who is both Savior and Judge). Nothing in our lives is hidden from him. Before Christ every man’s shame, guilt and sin is and will be exposed.
The only saving grace for me is my response of Faith to the Good News of Salvation. Did I neglect or reject God‘s message of Salvation? Here’s the question. “How shall we escape [judgment] if we neglect so great a salvation” (Heb 2:3).
Lord, I understand there is no hiding my sin and corruption from you. “Not my fault,” is no excuse. Only my faith, repentance and confession of sin is what gives me full access to Salvation and Kingdom life.
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.
_________
A brief read of modern day Great Awakenings in America reveals them occurring approximately every fifty years (1740s, 1790s, 1850s, 1900s). There is some disagreement on specific dates. But following this pattern, America should have seen an Awakening around the 1950s-60s.
But what did we see? Well, what we saw was twenty to thirty year olds in the those years who were busy burning bras and American flags. They were busy removing prayer and the Bible from schools. They have been at work ever since, developing Progressivism, a WOKE culture, restricting chaplaincy programs in the military and prison systems, removing oaths that contain the words, “So help me God.” They have been aborting babies, changing gender definitions and so much more. God forgive us.
What generation was this? This would be the generation who gave us leaders like Richard Nixon, Nelson Rockefeller, George Romney, Colin Powell, Earl Warren, Joe Biden, Harry Reid, Dianne Feinstein, Nancy Pelosi to name a few. Lord, forgive us all.
So, as with that ancient Hebrew generation, perhaps, in God’s displeasure, he has discarded this 20th, 21st Century generation. Perhaps we are in the midst of a generation that God has chosen to bypass. Perhaps there will be no revival in the immediate days ahead.
[THIS OLD SENTRY IS JUST ASKING]
___________
But our hope may be for awakening and revival in our children’s generation. Maybe in the next 10-15 years. Better yet, the soon return of Christ. I PRAY FOR BOTH!
May our hearts be delivered from evil disbelief (Heb 3:12–15). #EvilUnbelievingHeart #DoNotHardenYourHeart
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The writer here repeats his warning to be careful not to allow our hearts to become hardened. Believers are to warn each other of this regularly. He refers here to an “evil disbelieving” heart. This is the worst kind of evil that is here mentioned. It is not a casual unbelief. It is allowing our heart to be so intentionally contrary to God that we lead others also into disbelief.
This is what Israel did (3:16-19) and a whole generation of people died in the wilderness never having set foot in God’s land of promise for them. This is an evil hardening of the heart of the first order. Lord there was a time in my life when this oft wayward sentry stood on the brink of an “evil disbelieving heart.” I was in danger of losing my very life. But you rescued me at just the right time. I am eternally grateful.
Live a godly life made exceptional by the grace of God (Jer 16:10). #GodlyExceptionalism #NoExceptionToTheRule
Exceptionalism Depends On God’s Grace
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jeremiah was to exhibit extraordinary behavior to act out and explain God’s displeasure with Judah, his people (vv1-9). The people denied God. Yet, in verse 10, they ask indignantly, “Why is God unhappy with us? What have we done – how have we sinned against him?“ They were religious in their outward actions but far from God in their hearts.
Far from being the exceptional people God intended them to be, they thought they were the exception to the rule. They believed God was obligated to protect and provide for them. Exceptionalism does not make one an exception to the rule – in this case devotion to God. Lord may I live my life as a child of God, made exceptional in repentance by the grace of God.
I believe in “American Exceptionalism.” But America is not an exception to the rule, free to live in defiance of God and his Word. Her “Exceptionalism” is a God-given attribute. She needs to turn from her sin and act like it. May repentance be the rule of the day.
Take seriously sin and drifting from God (Jer 16:1–9). #PainfulSnub #Repent #TurnNowToGod
Really God? Join The Party!
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
There are times when God will ask hard things of his messengers, sometimes extreme things. His purpose is to wake people up, to jolt them into reality. Therefore, Jeremiah was told he could not marry and have children in a culture where this was obligatory. He was not to mourn the dead – unthinkable among the Jews at that time. Nor was he allowed to participate in festivals, joyful events.
All of these things were to show the drastic nature of God‘s intentions to judge a wayward and sinful people. The destruction would be thorough and complete. It would (and did) happen in Jeremiah‘s lifetime (v9). Woe to those who think they can snub their nose at God. Lord, keep old sentry alert to the seriousness of sin and drifting from God.
Be fearless and courageous for God‘s truth (Jer 15:19–21). #Fearless #Courageous #StandForTruth
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jeremiah bears a gentle but straightforward rebuke from God. “Stop feeling sorry for yourself Jeremiah.“ God challenges Jeremiah to “man up,“ speak truth for God and trust him for the results. In doing this Jeremiah would influence many (more than he knew) and he would not be influenced by them.
Barnes’ Notes – “Flattering prophets will perish with those whom their soft speeches [have led astray]. But those faithfully speaking the truth of God will save them both.“ Lord, I am inspired to stand faithful in/for your truth, to fear no man’s actions against me.
May the persecuted messengers of God know his comfort (Jer 15:15–18). #TheBleedingHeart #SufferingPersecution #BrokenHeartedWatchman
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The messengers of God, the bold intercessors for righteousness (those watchmen on the wall) may be seen as cold hearted harbingers of judgment. Not so.
Jeremiah, having understood that his intercessions would not change God‘s plan of judgment (vv10-11), he begins to lament. He sees his life as having been fully consecrated to God. But, he has been suffering insult and persecution as God’s messenger of judgment.
Jeremey’s delight had been to consume and be consumed by God‘s word. He reminds God how he has separated himself from the sins of the people, even railed against those sins. Yet, no one listened and still judgment was inevitable. Jeremiah laments, “How can I go on? When will my suffering end?”
Lord, it is clear, you hear the cries of the watchmen on the wall. Comfort our bleeding hearts* for our own beloved country and countrymen.
_________
* “The phrase bleeding heart is used to describe one who shows excessive sympathy for another’s misfortune. [Before it was used as a political barb], the term appears in literature describing sincere emotional outpouring, even taking on a literal association with the heart of Jesus Christ.” – Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Do not put off repentance before God (Jer 13:24-27). #TutnNowToGod #Repent #DoNotHardenYourHeart
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
God now makes clear his intentions. If there was any doubt before, it is clear now. God will scatter the people of Judah. They will no longer have a homeland. Just as they have done detestable acts of idolatry, shamelessly done acts of prostitution (pagan orgies) in the open for all to see, so God will expose their naked lust for all to see.
It is decreed by God what is to be their lot…their end. Judgment will fall on them. Lord, my beloved nation is guilty of all of this and more. She flaunts her sin in your face. May she turn back to you before it is too late.
Give us righteous leaders who seek God‘s leadership & govern wisely (Jer 13:20,21a) #NeededRighteousLeaders #ShepherdLeaders
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Jeremiah addresses the leaders of Judah as shepherds. He asks rhetorically – “Where are your beautiful flocks that God gave you?“ That is, where are your people who once loved and followed God? The implication is that these shepherds have ignored their flocks. Leaders, CIVIC and religious, are called into account. They ought to be embarrassed at the question. But they are not.
Judah’s leaders have ignored the people. They have spent more time pandering to allies, padding their own pockets and following other gods (who are no gods) than listening to Jehovah God and leading righteously. The Prophet says these godless allies will become their rulers. They will be the instruments God’s judgment.
There is blatant rejection of God in American politics and in certain segments of religious influence. They have led the people astray. These shepherd/leaders in America should be embarrassed. But they are not. America won’t like the alternative that will surely come. Lord, may my beloved nation have leaders who seek God‘s counsel & govern righteously.
Repent of a self-centered, self-righteous, know-it-all, attitude (Jer 13:15–17). #DoNotDelayRepentance #TurnNowToGod #Repent
Weep for the rejecting souls in darkness
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Following two parables of sin and judgment (vv 1-14), Jeremiah warned the people of Judah once again. (Oh, how the Lord is long-suffering)
“Listen to the warnings of God. Give him honor before it is too late. The day is coming when you will find yourself groping in the darkness of your own soul. You will look for light, but there will be no light.”
Then, Jeremiah says, “I will weep great tears for you because your pride feeds your refusal to listen to God. Your exile (judgment) is on the way.” Lord, I humbly bow before you in repentance for my own self-centered, self-righteous and frequently know-it-all attitude.
Would that our beloved nation, America, turn now from her pride and rejection of God to the light, while there is still time.
Humble yourself, seek God‘s counsel, listen to him and follow (Jer 13:12–14) #Don’tGetSmashed #Revival #SpiritualAwakening
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
Following Jeremiah’s living parable of the loincloth, illustrating how Judah had become so disgusting to God (v10), God explains the purpose of his choosing Israel. God chose Israel to be a people of praise, renown and glory unto him.
But the nation became proud, arrogant and stubbornly unwilling to follow after God. Therefore, God would fill their wine jugs with wine (signifying “drunkenness;“ that is judgment). Then God says he will “smash“ the jugs to smithereens. Every person from least to great will be mercilessly destroyed for their sin of rebellion.
May this Old Testament lesson be an example to me (1Co 10:6-12), that my arrogance and foolish pride doesn’t prevent me from listening to God and becoming all that God wants me to be. Oh Lord, may I humbly seek your counsel. May I listen and follow, that your purposes might be fulfilled in my life (that is, the glory of the Lord Jesus and the spread of the Gospel).
Lord, may my beloved nation humble herself, seek God’s counsel and become once again a beacon of light for the Gospel.
Pursue a pure heart for God (Jer 13:1–11). #MessageToGod’sPeople #PursueAPureHeartForGod
MORNING WATCH NOTES:
The Lord directed Jeremiah to act out a parable to the stubborn people of Israel/Judah. God said, “Buy a linen cloth and wear it. Don’t wash it.“ A linen cloth was worn next to the body like underwear. It was a sign of Israel’s once intimate closeness to God.
Then God told Jeremiah to go bury the cloth in a hole near the Euphrates. Sometime later he was told to retrieve it. Exposure to the elements had rotted the cloth. it was now good for nothing. This signified how thoroughly useless and disgusting God’s people had become to him.
Lord, how often this old sentry’s wandering heart is stained by worldly pursuits. May my greatest desire be to pursue a pure heart for you.
The Prayer Sentry 