How can we apply the watchman's role in Isaiah 21:12 to our lives? Setting the Scene Isaiah stands on the ramparts of history, hearing the watchman’s cry over a restless world. In Isaiah 21:12 the sentinel reports, “Morning has come, but also the night. If you would inquire, then inquire; come back yet again”. The watchman sees both dawn breaking and darkness lingering. That tension shapes how we live today. Understanding the Watchman’s Calling • Positioned on the wall—high enough to see farther than anyone inside the city. • Charged to spot danger and announce hope. Dawn means relief; night means threat. • Required to stay awake when others sleep (cf. Ezekiel 33:6). • Expected to speak truth immediately, no matter how often listeners return with questions. Why the Role Still Matters • God still places believers where they can see spiritually—by knowing His Word and walking in His Spirit (Psalm 119:105). • Darkness and light coexist in the present age until Christ’s return (Romans 13:11–12). • People keep asking, “What time is it?”—Is there hope? Is judgment coming? We must answer faithfully. Practicing Watchfulness Today • Stay alert in Scripture. Daily reading equips us to recognize error and announce truth (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Watch in prayer. Intercede for families, churches, and communities, standing in the gap like Nehemiah’s builders who held swords and tools simultaneously (Nehemiah 4:17). • Warn with compassion. Speak plainly about sin, judgment, and the only rescue in Jesus (John 14:6). • Announce hope. “Morning has come”—Christ is risen and reigning (1 Peter 1:3). • Admit ongoing night. Spiritual warfare and suffering persist; prepare others to endure (1 Peter 5:8–9). • Repeat the message. The verse invites inquirers to “come back yet again.” Offer gospel truth each time hearts reopen. Living as Modern Watchmen • In the home: Alert children to cultural lies, guiding them to God’s standards (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). • In the workplace: Model integrity, exposing dishonest practices by refusing to join them (Ephesians 5:11). • In the church: Encourage biblical teaching, guarding against false doctrine (Acts 20:28–31). • In the neighborhood: Be the first to welcome, listen, and share Christ when crisis hits (Matthew 5:14–16). • Online: Post content that shines light rather than spreads darkness, steering conversations toward truth (Philippians 4:8). Encouragement to Persevere The watchman’s task is tiring but temporary. “For yet a very little while, He who is coming will come and will not delay” (Hebrews 10:37). Until that final dawn, keep your eyes fixed on Christ, your heart anchored in His Word, and your mouth ready with both warning and welcome. |
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