Notes of Faith November 18, 2024

Don’t Guard in Vain

Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.

Psalm 127:1

“Who will take the first watch?” We hear that phrase often in films depicting armies or other groups in conflict. The modern word for the person standing guard is sentry; the ancient (biblical) word was watchman. Different words but the same purpose: to provide protection by watching for and warning of the approach of those who would do harm.

In the Old Testament, when cities had walls and gates, the watchmen would stand atop the walls or gates in order to see anyone who approached the city. Watchmen would even patrol the streets of the city during the night (2 Samuel 18:24-27; Song of Solomon 5:7; Isaiah 21:11-12). The psalmist used the image of the watchman to describe God as the true protector of the family (Psalm 127). Unless God stands guard, our best efforts are “in vain.” How do we enlist God to be our family watchman? By prayer, by adhering to His Word, and by clothing our family in the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Trust God to protect your family by dedicating each member to Him for His glory.

Trust God in the faith that He gives you and pray for His watch over you and your family. Being obedient to His Word, and often in prayer are the weapons of our warfare with those who would tear down and destroy the lives that God has given in our heritage. May you be blessed to see your children and children’s children come to faith in Jesus and follow Him intimately as you walk this life with them.

Pastor Dale