What can we learn about communication from the watchman's role in this verse? The Scene on the Wall • “The watchman called out and told the king” (2 Samuel 18:25). • One man, high above the crowd, sees what no one else can yet see. • His single responsibility: relay what he sees, exactly when he sees it. The Watchman’s Task: Seeing and Speaking • Vigilance—eyes fixed on the horizon, not distracted by the bustle inside the gate. • Discernment—“If he is alone, there is news in his mouth” (v. 25). He assesses the situation before reporting. • Immediate, clear transmission—no delay, no embellishment, no withholding. • Accountability—he speaks directly to the king; misreporting would endanger lives. Communication Principles We Can Embrace 1. Stay alert. We cannot speak well unless we first listen and observe well (James 1:19). 2. Speak truth promptly. Delayed truth can become lost opportunity (Ephesians 4:25). 3. Keep it concise. The watchman’s report is brief but sufficient (Proverbs 17:27). 4. Aim for accuracy. He states only what he knows, nothing more (Proverbs 10:19). 5. Understand your audience. He addresses the king, not the crowd—choose words accordingly (Proverbs 15:23). 6. Maintain credibility. One reliable report secures the king’s trust for the next (Luke 16:10). Reinforcing Scriptures • Ezekiel 33:7—“I have made you a watchman…so hear the word I speak and give them warning from Me.” • Isaiah 21:6—“Go, station the lookout and report what he sees.” • Habakkuk 2:1—“I will keep watch…and see what He will say to me.” • 1 Corinthians 14:8—“If the trumpet sounds an unclear call, who will prepare for battle?” • Proverbs 25:25—“Like cold water to a weary soul is good news from a distant land.” Putting It into Practice • Begin each day by asking the Lord for watchful eyes and a guarded tongue. • When you have information others need, share it promptly and plainly. • Resist the urge to speculate; stick to what you truly see or know. • Cultivate trust: consistent honesty today opens ears for your words tomorrow. • Use your vantage point—whether at work, home, or church—to bless others with timely, truthful communication. |
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