Ezekiel 33:6 But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people and the sword comes and takes someone’s life, that person’s life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood.’
People within the walled cities rest in peace as there are vigilant watchmen on the wall. If the watchmen are lazy, lethargic and languorous the enemy will creep in and take captive the city. It is the duty of the watchmen to watch and warn the sleeping soldiers of any impending danger. When the slumbering city hears the sound of the trumpet, they would be alerted that the sword of the enemy is near. If the city is attacked without warning, the onus will come upon the watchmen for the death of the men, women, children and cattle.
Likewise, we are appointed as watchmen over our domicile, dwelling and domain. We have to watch over our household, home and happiness. It is our responsibility to stand in the gap and pray for the welfare, wealth and wellbeing of everyone within our realm. Watchmen do not just guard their families but their village. Similarly, it is our responsibility to pray and intercede for everyone connected with us. Prayer is an inevitable, part of our life.
Responsibilities of a praying watchman:
1. Warn: The first task of a praying watchman is to warn. At times, warning will come to us in a dream. When we wake up with a confusing or troubling dream, and we can remember the details of the dream, it is a warning. Blow the trumpet of prayer to cancel and reverse the threats from the dream. Don’t ignore it but neither be intimidated by it. The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it (Proverbs 27:12). Blowing the trumpet is an act of “active worship”. Joel 2:1 Blow the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm on my holy mountain. Let the sound of prayer and praise overpower the threats of the intimidating enemy.
2. Wail: When the trial becomes too tough to bear and we cannot find words to pray, our tears should become our prayer. Psalms 56:8b Put my tears before you and in your book. God can hear our thoughts as clearly as He can hear our words. God can see the tears that drench our pillow and wet the carpet of our prayer closet as much as He hears the voice from our lips. When we struggle to find words to pray, we can present our tears as prayers.
3. Work: A sleeping watchmen will open the door for the enemy to steal their health and wealth. As a night watchman never slumbers or sleeps, a prayer warrior should never get weary of praying, interceding and petitioning. Prayer is relentless hard work. Pray and don’t faint. Pray until you see the salvation of the Lord. Pray in the darkest night when there are no signs or stars of redemption; the morning sun will soon arise.
Pray without ceasing and sound the trumpet. If the sword comes and takes someone’s life, that person’s life will be taken because of their sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for their blood.’ You and I are responsible for the salvation, redemption and deliverance of everyone who are under our influence.
Ezekiel 3:17 “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the people of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, empower me to pray persistently and blow the trumpet of warning to save my people. Amen
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