My brother was a lifeguard at the beach and his job was to stand in the lifeguard stand and watch for the safety of swimmer's. If anyone was in any danger he was to prevent anything from happening. He had to stay alert and focused to keep everyone safe. This was much like the watchmen back in Bible times.
In biblical times, great cities were protected by high stone walls. Watchmen were stationed in high towers to watch for enemies approaching. As Christians we are called to be watchmen. We are to shine God's light in this dark world. As watchmen we warn of danger coming. The watchmen must be concerned for the safety of souls. Isaiah 21: 11, "A prophecy against Dumah: Someone calls to me from Seir, 'Watchman, what is left of the night? Watchman, what is left of the night?'" Ezekiel 33: 7, "Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the people of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me."
Watchmen would see approaching armies and weary travelers. They would discern if the approaching caravans were friends or enemies. If they were not focused and failed to discern an enemy, their city could fall. If you lived in the city you would enter the gates by dusk and then the gates would be closed for the night. If the trumpet blasted that was the watchman warning of trouble. We are called to be watchmen. We live in dark times. We are to proclaim the good news of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The devil prowls around like a lion looking for who he can devour. If we are not in our armor of God and not focused, we will be easy prey. The devil is looking for those who are unaware. We must be watchmen and not let our guard down. Ezekiel 33: 7, "So you, son of man: I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore you shall hear a word from My mouth and warn them for Me.”
We are warned that the church needs watchman who will sound the trumpet when the enemy tries to deceive us. Like the watchmen, we are to be sober-minded, watchful in prayer and in tune with God. God will open the ears of those who need to hear. It is not our job to make them hear or accept, that is the role of the Holy Spirit. To be a watchman we must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. We are to protect those who are young in their faith.
The good news is morning always follows night. Psalm 30: 5, "... rejoicing comes in the morning." Morning speaks of the certainty of Jesus' coming. Morning always follows night. Sometimes the night seems long but morning is always near, as is the coming of Christ. Romans 13: 12, "The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." Joy comes in the morning. After a long, dark, scary night - morning comes bringing light!
For now, we are in serious spiritual war. We must be vigilant and stay focused on God. We must be in tune to Him to see what He is telling us.
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