Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

August 6– Morning

 by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“Watchman, what do you see in the night?” 

—Isaiah 21:11

The Christian has to contend with a number of enemies. There are errors to avoid on all sides, and new ones appear every hour. Therefore, we should ask ourselves, “What heresy am I to be on my guard against? Sins creep in from their lurking places when the darkness reigns, and I must climb the watch-tower and watch in prayer.

Our heavenly Protector foresees all the attacks that are about to be made against us, and, when these attacks come from the desires of Satan, he prays for us that our faith doesn’t fail, though we are sifted like wheat. Continue, O gracious Watchman, to forewarn us of our enemies, and, for Zion’s sake, don’t be silent.

“Watchman, what do you see in the night?” What weather is coming for the Church? Are the clouds lowering or is it all clear overhead? We must care for the Church of God with diligent love, since she is threatened both by the outward show of religion and by sheer infidelity.

“Watchman, what do you see in the night sky?” What stars are visible? When you warn us that the enemy is coming, also remind us that Christ the North Star is ever fixed in His place, and all the stars are secure in the right hand of their Lord.

“Watchman, is the morning almost here? Do you see any signs of the Bridegroom coming forth as the Sun of Righteousness? Has the morning star yet arisen as the pledge of day? O Jesus, if you don’t come in person to your waiting Church today at least come in Spirit to my sighing heart and make it sing for joy. [M&E]