Awake Oh Watchmen

Habakkuk speaks of positioning himself as a watchman to receive guidance and insights from God. It underscores the posture of waiting, listening, and seeking divine direction.

“The watchmen that went about the city found me, they smote me, they wounded me; the keepers of the walls took away my veil from me” (Solomon 5:7).

While not a direct reference to a watchman on a wall, this verse metaphorically uses the imagery of watchmen to portray a search for a loved one. The watchmen symbolize those who diligently seek and guard the beloved.

“Also I set watchmen over you, saying, Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said We will not hearken” (Jeremiah 6:17).

This verse illustrates the role of watchmen as messengers sounding the alarm. It reflects the people's choice to ignore the warnings, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience.

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come” (Matthew 24:42).

While not directly about watchmen on walls, this verse is spoken by Jesus and conveys the importance of spiritual watchfulness and readiness for His return. It aligns with the concept of watchmen remaining vigilant and prepared.

“It's like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch” (Mark 13:34).

In this parable, Jesus uses the imagery of a watchman at the door to emphasize the need for his followers to remain watchful and faithful in carrying out their responsibilities.

What Can Christians Today Learn from Being a Watchman on the Wall?

Being a watchman on the wall, as depicted in various Bible verses, holds valuable lessons for Christians today.

1. Vigilance and alertness. Just as a watchman on the wall is vigilant and alert to potential threats, we are called to remain spiritually vigilant and watchful.

The world is filled with various influences, temptations, and challenges that can divert our focus from God.

Being a watchman reminds us to stay awake and attentive, guarding our hearts and minds against anything that could compromise our faith.

2. Responsibility for others. A watchman has a responsibility to warn and protect others. Likewise, Christians have a responsibility to care for and nurture fellow believers.

This includes encouraging one another, offering support, and sharing the truth of God's Word. Being a watchman teaches us to look out for the spiritual well-being of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

3. Proclamation of truth. Watchmen announce impending danger, and Christians are called to proclaim the truth of the gospel, including the imminent return of Jesus.

In addition, we can prophetically warn of coming attacks of our spiritual enemy and the dangers of ideas that come against the knowledge of God, just as a watchman’s trumpet warns the city.

4. Discernment and discipleship. A watchman must discern between genuine threats and false alarms. Similarly, Christians need discernment to distinguish between sound doctrine and deceptive teachings.