What can we learn about vigilance from the watchman's actions in this verse? Setting the Scene 2 Samuel 18:26: “Then the watchman saw another man running, and he called out to the gatekeeper, ‘Look! Another man is running alone!’ ‘He also brings news,’ said the king.” The Watchman’s Vigilance • Stationed high above the city gate, the watchman’s sole duty was to keep his eyes open. • He noticed movement immediately—“another man running”—and reported without delay. • He remained alert long enough to distinguish that both runners were “alone,” indicating individualized messages, not an attack. • His prompt report allowed the king to prepare for the news before the messenger even arrived. Lessons for Our Vigilance Today • Constant readiness: The watchman never relaxed his guard. Likewise, believers are called to “Be on guard, keep awake” (Mark 13:33). • Quick discernment: He assessed what he saw and recognized its significance. We, too, must “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Faithful communication: Instead of speculating, he simply relayed what he observed. We are to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) without distortion. • Perseverance: Watching was not a momentary task but an ongoing assignment. Scripture urges, “Let us not grow weary in doing good” (Galatians 6:9). Supporting Scriptures • Ezekiel 3:17—“Son of man, I have appointed you a watchman… whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me.” • Habakkuk 2:1—“I will stand at my guard post… I will keep watch to see what He will say to me.” • Proverbs 8:34—“Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway.” • 1 Peter 5:8—“Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion…” Practical Takeaways • Cultivate spiritual alertness through daily Scripture intake—eyes fixed on God’s Word as firmly as the watchman’s eyes scanned the horizon. • Maintain conversational closeness with the Lord; prayer tunes the heart to recognize approaching “runners” of truth or danger. • Report faithfully: Share God’s message accurately, not adding to or subtracting from it (Revelation 22:18-19). • Stand your post: Whether in family, church, or community, keep watch with unwavering devotion, knowing that lives and souls depend on timely, truthful warnings. |
    |