Watchmen Arise…

Since sin came into the world we have faced the painful repercussions of enmity with God and with one-another. In an increasingly hostile global climate, nations make significant investments in border protection and military preparedness. Intelligence bureaus and counterterrorism agencies attempt to proactively defend us through early detection and disruption of enemy plans before they can do any damage.

Throughout the Bible we see God calling watchmen to stand their post and bring warning of potential threats to His people, protecting their communities, future, and ways of life. Some were posted on the walls of the city to watch for military threats. Some occupied watchtowers to safeguard fields and vineyards during harvest time. Others were prophetic watchmen who heard God’s warnings of judgment and called His people to repent before it was too late.

Whatever the specific assignment, watchmen have played a crucial role throughout history in God’s plans and provision to safeguard that which was precious to Him against that which would seek to destroy it. (Isaiah 21:8)

What about today? Does God still appoint and direct watchmen for His Kingdom on the earth? Amos 3:7 tells us that “Surely the Lord GOD does nothing, unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets." The New Testament continually admonishes us to keep awake and vigilant, both to guard against the enemy (Matthew 26:41) and in expectancy of the Lord’s return (Matthew 24:42-44).

I recently learned about a medical device called a “Watchman Implant” which prevents blood clots from forming in patients with AFib, guarding them against a potentially life-threatening stroke. Placed in the left atrial appendage, this device closes it off to keep clots from forming and entering the bloodstream, preventing the need for blood-thinners. WOW.

A properly placed watchman is still our best defense against the enemy. (1 Peter 5:8) We may not all be called as a watchman for the nations, but at a minimum we are called to keep watch over the Body of Christ and spheres of influence where God has called us to take dominion for His Kingdom. (Acts 20:28-32)

As we continue to pray and prepare for revival in our land, may we be vigilant to keep watch over our hearts, our homes, our churches and our region…. Seeing with spiritual eyes and attentive to what God is speaking as we intercede for the lost and contend for an outpouring of His Spirit upon our land.

Jaime Lind
COO, Revive New England