In Watchings Often

2 Corinthians 11:27 In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

If ever there was a man in the early church that qualified as a watchman, it would have been the apostle Paul. Paul includes “in watchings often” in his testimony about the trials he endured. He also mentioned that these watchings approved him as a minister of God (2 Corinthians 6:4-5). We know from the biblical accounts that when many believers were unaware of danger, the apostle Paul stood upon the tower and sounded the trumpet of alarm. While others were spiritually sleeping, the apostle Paul was sober and alert to the needs of the church. No doubt Paul endured sleepless nights, fasted, and went without even the necessities of life because he was watching for the church.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):God’s man warns God’s people with the Bible (Ezekiel 33:7). Paul warned the Ephesian elders to teach the church to watch for false teachers. In fact, Paul warned the pastors for three years (Acts 20:28-31). Following Paul’s example, pastors today watch and warn us (Hebrews 13:17).

(For everyone):Can you think of some instances where Paul fulfilled his duty as a watchman? What was the danger? What would have happened if Paul had not sent the warning?

(For everyone):Why is it important to keep your eyes open in case of danger? What kind of warnings are given by the enemy as to the time and place of his attack?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Thank the Lord for the warnings given in His word.

Ask the Lord to give you a desire to be a watchman for Him.

SONG

Hold the Fort

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