God's watershed! how to walk the next step in Christ?

The point is, the physical world is openly exposing itself as what it has become. The spiritual world too has revealed itself just as real but toward another direction. The two paths have now merged into a physical-spiritual watershed point. It has come to a point where the divide between the physical and the spiritual is growing into a chasm. No, this is not a premonition. This is not a prophecy. Rather, this is the passing of ancient prophecies.

Being put in Christ (in union and communion with Him), walking this earth, today a believer in Christ looks at the paths ahead and realizes that one cannot proceed further without taking stock of their current spiritual state.

This is how one takes stock of their personal spiritual state, in order to carry on in the two parallel worlds. The Bible verses are quoted from the New Matthew Bible (NMB).

Look at the spiritual: Who God is and who I really am

Know and acknowledge that God is always good: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom can be no variation, neither shadow that is cast by turning.” It’s an absolute truth; there are no exceptions. God is always good. (James 1:17)

Who I am and what my purpose is for being here (on this planet), in particular, at this increasingly perilous time
“9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and his own special people, in order that you should show forth the virtues of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light –” (1 Peter 2:9)

What I am supposed to do next at the present scenario and in future:

This is a reminder to all who are serious about our life hereon and thereafter. It is all about stewardship of what we have been given. The people of God have resources. What do we do with our resources? Jesus said we need to be gentler than doves and yet wiser than serpents. Jesus also uses one last parable to describe a final set of criteria whereby the goats and sheep will be sorted into two categories, to each its end.

7 The end of all things is at hand. Be therefore discreet and sober, so that you may be fit for prayer. 8 But above all things, have fervent love among you. For love covers the multitude of sins. 9 Be ready to take one another into your homes, and that without grudging. 10 As each one has received the gift, minister the same to one another, as good ministers of the manifold grace of God. (1 Peter 4:7-10)

“The English word “sober” was translated from the Greek word “SOPHRONEO,” and this Greek word means “to be of sound mind, i.e. sane, (figuratively) moderate” (Strong’s Concordance). It is not just talking about not being drunk. The Amplified Bible renders this word “watch” as “alert.” So, true prayer will keep us alert unto what the Lord is doing.”

“The only way to maintain relationships is with fervent love, the kind that is described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. The word “fervent” was translated from the Greek word ektenes. The other occurrence was in Acts 12:5, where “fervent” was translated “without ceasing.” So “fervent charity” in this verse may be interpreted as “charity without ceasing.” ”

Love, God’s kind of love, is a power. It is a supernatural power. It has worked on the cross two thousands of years ago. This is the Truth that Jesus has revealed and personally demonstrated. God’s kind of love is God’s kind of power. And all the apostles and early church disciples of Jesus knew this. (Read the New Testament and the early church history)

We are required to be “watchful” and “alert.” So, true prayer will keep us alert unto what the Lord is doing. For this purpose, the Lord has given us the spiritual abilities to see, hear, understand, discern and make the right choices/decisions at the right time.

Jesus actually spoke at length about the perilous time. I will not repeat here. Please read the related chapters in the Gospels and also the Book of Revelation.

What is the consolation for His people? I have been comforted and reassured of the goodness of God and the confident expectation of good for the people of God, in countless Bible verses. I pray you too as you read this blog and meditate on the verses the Lord will give you as you move on from your own watershed point to a point of the hope in Christ that all born again believers have.

HCSB Now the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will personally restore, establish, strengthen, and support you after you have suffered a little. (1 Peter 5:10)

MSG Since everything here today might well be gone tomorrow, do you see how essential it is to live a holy life? Daily expect the Day of God, eager for its arrival. The galaxies will burn up and the elements melt down that day—but we’ll hardly notice. We’ll be looking the other way, ready for the promised new heavens and the promised new earth, all landscaped with righteousness. (2 Peter 3:13)

AMP For everyone born of God is victorious and overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has conquered and overcome the world—our [continuing, persistent] faith [in Jesus the Son of God]. (1 John 5:4)

17 And these signs will follow those who believe: in My name they will cast out devils, and will speak with new tongues, 18 and will kill serpents. And if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them. They will lay their hands on the sick and they will recover. (Mark 16:17-18 NMB)

What is the next step for all who are the followers of Jesus and Bible believers?

“He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;” （Romans 4:20）Abraham had done this as our trail blazer. So can we.

This is how Jesus has prepared and fully equipped us: (1 Corinthians 2:9-16)

9 But as it is written: The eye has not seen and the ear has not heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things that God has prepared for those who love him.

10 But God has revealed them to us by his Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yea, the bottom of God’s secrets. 11 For what man knows the things of a man, except the spirit of a man which is within him? In the same way, the things of God are known by no man, but by the Spirit of God. 12 And we have not received the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which comes of God, in order to know the things that are given to us by God –15 But he who is spiritual evaluates all things. Yet he himself is judged by no man. 16 For who knows the mind of the Lord, or who shall inform him? But we understand the mind of Christ.

We have the mind of Christ! (NKJV)

Application for all who believe: start practicing reading and mediating the Word of God, to know, understand and receive the wisdom of Christ and in Christ. Pray in the Spirit. Ask the Lord’s Spirit to speak to us and guide us specifically in every decision/direction. Be deliberate and be alert. Live as Jesus did and does now.

AMPC In this [union and communion with Him] love is brought to completion and attains perfection with us, that we may have confidence for the day of judgment [with assurance and boldness to face Him], because as He is, so are we in this world. (1 John 4:17)

καί notes, 2022-08-29

IN “FORTY DAYS”: What it means in the last forty days in 2016

In forty days it will be the end of Year 2016. How does a follower of Jesus Christ spend the last forty days of this year? How important is forty days to the Lord God Creator Himself? I shall attempt to look at what God means by day and night and what forty days mean to Him. For those who have never encountered Jesus in a personal way, I pray you meet Him in these last days before you face the New Year 2017.

DEFINITION AND PURPOSE OF DAY/NIGHT (SEASONS, YEARS)
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Here is a narration of what God means: Genesis 1:3-5,14 [Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light “day” and the darkness “night.” And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day. Then God said, “Let lights appear in the sky to separate the day from the night. Let them be signs to mark the seasons, days, and years.]

So it appears that God uses physical discernible signs (light. darkness) to separate two sections of time. Such sections are respectively called day and night. Other signs also include the physical variations of nature and living things (including a human growing/aging) presented by seasons and years.

Why “forty” days (And forty nights)? Here are some Bible verses on “forty days”. We can read that “forty” signifies a period in which one begins or ends. it is a term of assignment on earth. It is a period of performance record. It is a length of time just enough to show whether one passes or fails the test. It is a time in which an event takes on a spiritual implication which in turn impacts the physical outcome. What will you do from today until the end of this calendar year 2016?

This watchman will take heed of what the Lord Jesus has urged His followers and the apostles’ similar advice:
Nehemiah 4:9: Nevertheless we made our prayer to our God, and because of them we set a watch against them day and night.
Matthew 26:41: Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Mark 13:33: Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is.
Mark 14:38: Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Luke 21:36: Watch therefore, and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Ephesians 6:18: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—
1 Peter 4:7: [ Serving for God’s Glory ] But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF “FORTY DAYS” IN THE BIBLE:
IN THE BEGINNING OF EARTH TIME
Genesis 7:4 For after seven more days I will cause it to rain on the earth forty days and forty nights, and I will destroy from the face of the earth all living things that I have made.” Genesis 7:12 And the rain was on the earth forty days and forty nights. Genesis 7:17 Now the flood was on the earth forty days. The waters increased and lifted up the ark, and it rose high above the earth. Genesis 8:6 So it came to pass, at the end of forty days, that Noah opened the window of the ark which he had made.

THE BEGINNING OF MOSES’ MINISTRY JOURNEY AS A SERVANT OF GOD; “DOUBLE FORTY”
Exodus 24:18 So Moses went into the midst of the cloud and went up into the mountain. And Moses was on the mountain forty days and forty nights.
34:28 So he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread nor drank water. And He wrote on the tablets the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments.
Deuteronomy 9:9,11,18 9:25 “Thus I prostrated myself before the Lord; forty days and forty nights I kept prostrating myself, because the Lord had said He would destroy you.10:10 “As at the first time, I stayed in the mountain forty days and forty nights; the Lord also heard me at that time, and the Lord chose not to destroy you.

THE FIRST SPYING ASSIGNMENT AND ITS FAILURE AND CONSEQUENCE; “DOUBLE FORTY; “EXPONENTIAL IMPACT” FROM “DAY” TO “YEAR”!
Numbers 13:25 And they returned from spying out the land after forty days.
14:34 According to the number of the days in which you spied out the land, forty days, for each day you shall bear your guilt one year, namely forty years, and you shall know My rejection.

A SNAPSHOT OF THE TORMENTOR(ENEMY)’S TACTICS
1 Samuel 17:16 And the Philistine (GOLIATH) drew near and presented (STRUTTED) himself forty days, morning and evening.

ELIJAH’S PREPARATION TO COMPLETE HIS LAST RACE AS A PROPHET OF GOD
1 Kings 19:8 So he arose, and ate and drank; and he went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights as far as Horeb, the mountain of God.

EZEKIEL’S PROPHETIC ACT AS A TRUE MESSENGER OF GOD
Ezekiel 4:6 And when you have completed them, lie again on your right side; then you shall bear the iniquity of the house of Judah forty days. I have laid on you a day for each year.

JONAH’S MISSION AS A TRUE MESSENGER OF GOD
Jonah 3:4 And Jonah began to enter the city on the first day’s walk. Then he cried out and said, “Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!”

THE BEGINNING OF JESUS’ MISSION ON EARTH
Matthew 4:2 And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry.
Mark 1:13 And He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him.
Luke 4:2 being tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry.

THE END OF JESUS’ MISSION ON EARTH BEFORE ASCENDING TO HEAVEN
Acts 1:3 to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.

FOR FURTHER READING, I LIST BELOW THE SIGNIFICANCE OF “FORTY” IN THE BIBLE.
Mentioning 146 times in Scripture, the number 40 generally symbolizes a period of testing, trial or probation, as a time of consecration and as a period of trial. The number forty can also represent a generation of man. Because of their sins after leaving Egypt, The children of Israel were punished by wandering the wilderness for 40 years before a new generation was allowed to possess the promised land. Jesus, just days before his crucifixion, prophesied the total destruction of Jerusalem (Matthew 24:1-2, Mark 13:1-2). Forty years after his crucifixion in 30 A.D., the Roman Empire destroyed the city and burned its beloved temple to the ground.

Forty day epic periods of great flood [Gen.7:4,12,17, 8:6].
Forty years was the age of Isaac when he married Rebekah [Gen.25:20].
Forty years of Moses in Egypt [Ex.7:7; Deut.34:7; Acts 7:30].
Forty years of Moses in Midian before return to Egypt [Acts 7:30].
Forty years from the Exodus until Moses’ death [Deut.1:3;34:7].
Forty years Israel ate manna [Ex.16:4,15,35; Deut.29:5; 1Cor.10:3] which means “what is it?” , “spiritual food”.
Forty days Moses was on the Mountain to receive from God the Law of the Sinai Covenant [Ex.24:18].
Forty days the children of Israel were tested while Moses was on the mountain [Ex.32:1].
Forty days Moses was on the Mountain after the children of Israel committed the golden calf idolatry [Ex.34:28]. He received from God and wrote down the words of the covenant, the Ten Commandments again.
Forty days the Israelite 12 spies surveyed the land of Canaan [Num.13:25].
Forty years was Caleb’s age when Moses sent him as one of the spies to check out the promised land [Josh.14:7].
Forty years that Israel spent in the wilderness [Num.14:33; Deut.1:1-3; 8:2].
Forty years from the giving of the Law at Sinai to the conquest of the Promised land [Josh.5:6].
Forty year intervals of peace in the age of the Judges (Judg.3:11; 5:31; 8:28)
Forty years Eli the High Priest judged Israel [1 Sam.4:18].
Forty years David ruled as King of Israel [2 Sam.5:5; 1 Chr.29:26-27].
Forty years Solomon ruled Israel [2 Chr.9:30].
Forty years Josiah ruled Judah [2 Kin.12:1-2].
Forty days and nights Elijah traveled to Mt. Horeb/Sinai [1 Kin.19:8].
Forty days reluctant missionary/prophet Jonah was assigned to station in the Assyrian city of Nineveh [Jon.3:4] preaching repentance message.
Forty days Ezekiel was instructed to lay on his right side to symbolize the 40 years of Judah’s transgressions [Ezek.4:6].
Forty years of judgment that Ezekiel prophesied on Egypt’s desolation [Ezek.29:11-13].
Forty days Jesus fasted in the wilderness and was tempted by Satan [Matt.4:2; Mark 1:13; Luke 4:2].
Forty days Jesus taught His disciples PERTAINING TO THE KINGDOM OF GOD, AND APPEARED TO OVER FIVE HUNDRED FOLLOWERS after the Resurrection. On the fortieth day He ascended to the Father in Heaven [Acts 1:3; 1 COR.15:3-7].

How does a watchman for God uses the sword of the Spirit?

How does a watchman for God watch? After all these years, the watchman realizes it is a spiritual and not physical watch that matters. Jesus has spoken clearly that the flesh (physical and soul realm) profits nothing in the matters of the Kingdom of God. It is the Spirit that gives life. The words that He (God) has spoken, are spirit and life. (John 6:63) Having traveled to some distant spaces over a span of time, the watchman has increasingly observed that it is the power of God (through His words and His Spirit) that transform lives inside out. This is the only transformation that gives victorious lives. No one can really partake the promised abundant life without going through this transformation process. The words of God become spirit and life and feed us when we feed on His words and submit to His Spirit as children of God. Sons of God are led by the Spirit of Christ. Jesus spoke of this requirement from the beginning of His ministry on earth. No one can see the Kingdom of God unless born again. No one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Only the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life. For God is Spirit, so those who worship Him must worship in spirit and in truth. (John 3:3, 5; 4:24)

A watchman for God watches from his position in the Kingdom of God. His (or her) position must be in Christ Jesus. Otherwise, all the watching will be in vain. By positioning in Christ, he has put on the full armour of God: truth, righteousness, peace (from the Gospel), faith, salvation, the sword of the Spirit (the word of God), and praying in the Spirit. This is a standard basic requirement at all times and on every occasion. (Ephesians 6:10-18)

A watchman for God lives by the Spirit’s power. Filled with the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 5:15-20 New Living Translation (NLT)

Living by the Spirit’s Power

¹⁵ So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. ¹⁶ Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. ¹⁷ Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. ¹⁸ Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, ¹⁹ singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. ²⁰ And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Here is another standard requirement of how a watchman for God lives:

Ephesians 5:1-14 New Living Translation (NLT)

Living in the Light

5 Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. ² Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us^[a] and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.

³ Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. ⁴ Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. ⁵ You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.
⁶ Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. ⁷ Don’t participate in the things these people do. ⁸ For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! ⁹ For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true.
¹⁰ Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. ¹¹ Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. ¹² It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. ¹³ But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, ¹⁴ for the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said,

“Awake, O sleeper,
    rise up from the dead,
    and Christ will give you light.”

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

But how can anyone live the above standards of requirement for every believer of Jesus?

Here is the key: Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes

Ephesians 4:17-32 New Living Translation (NLT)

Living as Children of Light

¹⁷ With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused. ¹⁸ Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him. ¹⁹ They have no sense of shame. They live for lustful pleasure and eagerly practice every kind of impurity.

²⁰ But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. ²¹ Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, ²² throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. ²³ Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. ²⁴ Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.
²⁵ So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. ²⁶ And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.”^[a] Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, ²⁷ for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
²⁸ If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. ²⁹ Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
³⁰ And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own,^[b] guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.

³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. ³² Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. 

Prayer call: "take heed"

Today's message: "Take Heed"

Mark 4:24

Then He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given.

Mark 8:15

Then He charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.”

Mark 13:5

And Jesus, answering them, began to say: “Take heed that no one deceives you.

Mark 13:23

But take heed; see, I have told you all things beforehand.

Mark 13:32-34New King James Version (NKJV)

No One Knows the Day or Hour

³² “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. ³³ Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. ³⁴ It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch.

Sunday message: living by the Spirit; tongues; martyrs; Te Deum

Whilst preparing the following post, the watchman was led to the YouTube site and listened to the performance of “Te Deum”. He listened, continued to type and prayed in the spirit. Then he realized that he spoke some distinct words in unknown languages. So he wrote them down. After posting the blog, he had a bit of time and checked through the meanings (using online translator) of the distinct words. He was pleasantly surprised to find that the Spirit of the Lord told his spirit to “download-choir-others-see“. (In the short sentence four languages were used: Norwegian, Turkish, Lithuanian and Albanian. ). He did not know then but his spirit knew and obeyed! The first sound he uttered was ‘Sabbath’ which was English but he could not understand this utterance then.
Further revelation note inserted here on 6-4-2013: It dawned on him today that the day this tongue (above sentence ) was uttered was a Sunday while he was preparing this blog. The full sentence of the sound (tongue) he uttered while listening to the presentation of ‘Te Deum‘ on YouTube by Franz Joseph Haydn, Te Deum n.2 in C, and drafting the blog was: “Sabbath- last ned -koro- kito- sheh” (which means: “Sunday download-choir-others-see“, based on separate meaning of each individual words in four languages; when combined they formed one complete sentence which his spirit understood and obeyed!).
This confirmed an earlier question the watchman asked the Lord (in the preceding few days) about whether all sounds spoken in tongues have meanings. After this amazing revelation he was led to read 1Corinthians 14:10 which further confirmed this revelation: 
“There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.” (KJV)
“There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning,” (ESV)
____________________
Excerpts from download on martyrdom:

________________Excerpts from download:
On February 5, 1597, twenty-six Christians – four Spaniards, one Mexican, one Indian, all Franciscan missionaries, three Japanese Jesuits and seventeen Japanese laymen including three young boys, who were all members of the Third Order of St. Francis – were executed by crucifixion in Nagasaki on the orders of Hideyoshi Toyotomi.^[1] These individuals were raised on crosses and then pierced through with spears.
Persecution continued sporadically, breaking out again in 1613 and 1630. On September 10, 1632, 55 Christians were martyred in Nagasaki in what became known as the Great Genna Martyrdom. At this time Catholicism was officially outlawed. The Church remained without clergy and theological teaching disintegrated until the arrival of Western missionaries in the nineteenth century.
While there were many more martyrs, the first martyrs came to be especially revered, the most celebrated of which was Paul Miki.
Drawn from the oral histories of Japanese Catholic communities, Shusaku Endo‘s acclaimed novel Silence provides detailed accounts of the persecution of Christian communities and the suppression of the Church.
(Excerpts from Twenty-six Martyrs of Japan: From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)
_____________________more excerpts from same source:
Paulo Miki (Japanese: パウロ三木; c. 1562^[1] – February 5, 1597) was a Roman Catholic Japanese Jesuit seminarian, martyr and saint, one of the Twenty-six Martyrs of Japan.
Biography
Paulo Miki was born into a wealthy Japanese family. He was educated by the Jesuits in Azuchi and Takatsuki. He joined the Society of Jesus and became a well known and successful preacher – gaining numerous converts to Catholicism. The Japanese daimyo, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, fearful of the Jesuit’s influence and intentions began persecuting Catholics. Miki was jailed, along with others. He and his fellow Catholics were forced to march 600 miles (966 kilometers) from Kyoto to Nagasaki; all the while singing the Te Deum. On arriving in Nagasaki, the city with the largest Catholic population in Japan, Miki was crucified on February 5, 1597. He preached his last sermon from the cross, and it is maintained that he forgave his executioners, stating that he himself was Japanese.
____________downloaded as instructed by the Lord Holy Spirit:

Te Deum, which was translated into English in the 19th century as “Holy God, we praise thy name.”

Franz Joseph Haydn, Te Deum n.2 in C
http://youtu.be/PXNGqgNTNIQ

Latin text

Translation from the Book of Common Prayer

Te Deum laudamus: te Dominum confitemur. Te aeternum Patrem omnis terra veneratur. Tibi omnes Angeli; tibi caeli et universae Potestates; Tibi Cherubim et Seraphim incessabili voce proclamant: Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus, Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Pleni sunt caeli et terra maiestatis gloriae tuae. Te gloriosus Apostolorum chorus, Te Prophetarum laudabilis numerus, Te Martyrum candidatus laudat exercitus. Te per orbem terrarum sancta confitetur Ecclesia, Patrem immensae maiestatis: Venerandum tuum verum et unicum Filium; Sanctum quoque Paraclitum Spiritum. Tu Rex gloriae, Christe. Tu Patris sempiternus es Filius. Tu ad liberandum suscepturus hominem, non horruisti Virginis uterum. Tu, devicto mortis aculeo, aperuisti credentibus regna caelorum. Tu ad dexteram Dei sedes, in gloria Patris. Iudex crederis esse venturus. Te ergo quaesumus, tuis famulis subveni: quos pretioso sanguine redemisti. Aeterna fac cum sanctis tuis in gloria numerari. [added later, mainly from Psalm verses:] Salvum fac populum tuum, Domine, et benedic hereditati tuae. Et rege eos, et extolle illos usque in aeternum. Per singulos dies benedicimus te; Et laudamus Nomen tuum in saeculum, et in saeculum saeculi. Dignare, Domine, die isto sine peccato nos custodire. Miserere nostri Domine, miserere nostri. Fiat misericordia tua, Domine, super nos, quemadmodum speravimus in te. In te, Domine, speravi: non confundar in aeternum.

We praise thee, O God :     we acknowledge thee to be the Lord. All the earth doth worship thee :     the Father everlasting. To thee all Angels cry aloud :     the Heavens, and all the Powers therein. To thee Cherubim and Seraphim :     continually do cry, Holy, Holy, Holy :     Lord God of Sabaoth; Heaven and earth are full of the Majesty :     of thy glory. The glorious company of the Apostles : praise thee. The goodly fellowship of the Prophets : praise thee. The noble army of Martyrs : praise thee. The holy Church throughout all the world :     doth acknowledge thee; The Father : of an infinite Majesty; Thine honourable, true : and only Son; Also the Holy Ghost : the Comforter. Thou art the King of Glory : O Christ. Thou art the everlasting Son : of the Father. When thou tookest upon thee to deliver man :     thou didst not abhor the Virgin's womb. When thou hadst overcome the sharpness of death :     thou didst open the Kingdom of Heaven to all believers. Thou sittest at the right hand of God : in the glory of the Father. We believe that thou shalt come : to be our Judge. We therefore pray thee, help thy servants :     whom thou hast redeemed with thy precious blood. Make them to be numbered with thy Saints : in glory everlasting. [added later, mainly from Psalm verses:] O Lord, save thy people :     and bless thine heritage. Govern them : and lift them up for ever. Day by day : we magnify thee; And we worship thy Name : ever world without end. Vouchsafe, O Lord : to keep us this day without sin. O Lord, have mercy upon us : have mercy upon us. O Lord, let thy mercy lighten upon us :     as our trust is in thee. O Lord, in thee have I trusted :     let me never be confounded.

Watchman’s letter to Junior: end times here, persevere to watch after midnight

Dear Junior: (a watchman/intercessor who started young) Greeting to you in peace.
The following sharing is also for the benefit of those aspiring to be watchman/intercessor.
The end times watchman was admonished lately after he had moved away from his Mount of Olives attic for sometime, giving way to some overseas visitors. The visitors had returned to their country but the watchman was too lazy to clean up and move back. But now his two trees outside the prayer window had shown charred leaves and the third one too started to show brown color. (He admitted in his spirit he had not prayed consistently. He was earlier told that the first three bread fruits from a breadfruit tree planted by him in a former prayer house he attended were plucked and wasted before they matured!) The warning word from the Lord is “BEWARE DESOLATION”!
Thus he decided to move back and he completed the task after a day of spring cleaning. The first midnight was truly different and fruitful. He was woken after midnight. He was led to read Zechariah 3-4, Malachi 3-4, Luke 13-14.
The message came to him clearly, confirming the signs he had received intensely even during the last quarter of 2012: The Lord is talking about end times. Two types of burning: those refined and those perished. Two outcome: those who will enter and those who will be left out of the kingdom of heaven. The message is for both Christians (even the high priest Jeshua was like a burning stick snatched from the fire! Zech. 3:2, 3:8) and unbelievers. It was a last call to repentance. Luke 13:2-8; the Lord’s personal urge for all to work hard to enter the narrow door Luke 13:24-30.

On the second night the watchman was again woken after midnight. He was led to read Ezekiel 3-7.
Chapter 3 message is for all watchmen to be alert after midnight. He was tired and sleepy as he had not practiced for sometime. For those who do not know, the watchman has to learn and practice to live divine. He is human like anyone. He learns to fast and pray. He learns to read Bible and listen to the Holy Spirit speaking to him through the Bible. He learns to do various types of fasting as led by the Lord (Holy Spirit). Often it is tough. For example, fasting the Esther fast (three days no food no water), or even Daniel fast, no meat, only light vegetable soups, a bit of rice and mainly liquid (water) for prolonged period (like 21 days or more when the Lord prompts him to extend). Often he just sleeps or stays very still and silent, using only his eyes, his ears and his spirit. But now the Lord wants him to reduce sleep and even intercede.

While lying on the floor he heard this very clearly in his spirit, read Ezekiel 3-4. He finally got up reluctantly and open his Bible. Not surprising, the warning to lazy watchmen is here.
3:20-21 warns: ““If righteous people turn away from their righteous behavior and ignore the obstacles I put in their way, they will die. And if you do not warn them, they will die in their sins. None of their righteous acts will be remembered, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. ²¹ But if you warn righteous people not to sin and they listen to you and do not sin, they will live, and you will have saved yourself, too.”

Nothing can compare with this way of waking him. He continued reading and soon knew the prayer he made on the previous day, asking the Lord how he should intercede for his nation, had been answered. The warnings are shocking.
chapter 4: A sign of the coming siege
chapter 5: A sign of the coming judgment
chapter 6: Judgment against Israel’s mountains (idols, false gods, pagan shrines etc.)
chapter 7: The coming of the end
By reading the headlines above one should understand and hear what the Holy Spirit is saying.

What should a watchman do in this time? A novice watchman may ask.
The answer is: obey your calling and watch and pray like never before.

Be soaked in the joy of the Lord Holy Spirit!
love in Christ from uncle watchman.

____heavy reading from the Word

Ezekiel 7

New Living Translation (NLT)

The Coming of the End (excerpts)

7 Then this message came to me from the Lord: ² “Son of man, this is what the Sovereign Lord says to Israel:

“The end is here!     Wherever you look— east, west, north, or south—     your land is finished. ³ No hope remains,     for I will unleash my anger against you. I will call you to account     for all your detestable sins.
⁵ “This is what the Sovereign Lord says:
Disaster after disaster
is coming your way!
¹² Yes, the time has come;
the day is here!
Buyers should not rejoice over bargains,
nor sellers grieve over losses,
for all of them will fall
under my terrible anger.
¹³ Even if the merchants survive,
they will never return to their business.
For what God has said applies to everyone—
it will not be changed!
Not one person whose life is twisted by sin
will ever recover.

"That day" will definitely come

"That day" will definitely come. The watchman believes. But what is "that day"? The watchman asked. These are the answers.

1. 2 Peter 3:8
   Nevertheless, do not let this one fact escape you, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day.
   2 Peter 3:7-9 (in Context) 2 Peter 3 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
2. Luke 17:24
   For like the lightning, that flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other, so will the Son of Man be in His [own] day.
   Luke 17:23-25 (in Context) Luke 17 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
3. Luke 17:29
   But on the [very] day that Lot went out of Sodom, it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed [them] all.
   Luke 17:28-30 (in Context) Luke 17 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
4. Luke 17:30
   That is the way it will be on the day that the Son of Man is revealed.
   Luke 17:29-31 (in Context) Luke 17 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
5. Luke 21:34
   But take heed to yourselves and be on your guard, lest your hearts be overburdened and depressed (weighed down) with the giddiness and headache and nausea of self-indulgence, drunkenness, and worldly worries and cares pertaining to [the business of] this life, and [lest] that day come upon you suddenly like a trap or a noose;
   Luke 21:33-35 (in Context) Luke 21 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
6. 1 Corinthians 1:8
   And He will establish you to the end [keep you steadfast, give you strength, and guarantee your vindication; He will be your warrant against all accusation or indictment so that you will be] guiltless and irreproachable in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah).
   1 Corinthians 1:7-9 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
7. 1 Corinthians 5:5
   You are to deliver this man over to Satan for physical discipline [to destroy carnal lusts which prompted him to incest], that [his] spirit may [yet] be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
   1 Corinthians 5:4-6 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 5 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
8. 2 Corinthians 1:14
   [Just] as you have [already] partially known and understood and acknowledged us and recognized that you can [honestly] be proud of us, even as we [can be proud] of you on the day of our Lord Jesus.
   2 Corinthians 1:13-15 (in Context) 2 Corinthians 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
9. Philippians 1:6
   And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.
   Philippians 1:5-7 (in Context) Philippians 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
   
10. Philippians 1:10
    So that you may surely learn to sense what is vital, and approve and prize what is excellent and of real value [recognizing the highest and the best, and distinguishing the moral differences], and that you may be untainted and pure and unerring and blameless [so that with hearts sincere and certain and unsullied, you may approach] the day of Christ [not stumbling nor causing others to stumble].
    Philippians 1:9-11 (in Context) Philippians 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
11. Philippians 2:16
    Holding out [to it] and offering [to all men] the Word of Life, so that in the day of Christ I may have something of which exultantly to rejoice and glory in that I did not run my race in vain or spend my labor to no purpose.
    Philippians 2:15-17 (in Context) Philippians 2 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
12. Colossians 1:6
    Which has come to you. Indeed, in the whole world [that Gospel] is bearing fruit and still is growing [by its own inherent power], even as it has done among yourselves ever since the day you first heard and came to know and understand the grace of God in truth. [You came to know the grace or undeserved favor of God in reality, deeply and clearly and thoroughly, becoming accurately and intimately acquainted with it.]
    Colossians 1:5-7 (in Context) Colossians 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
13. Colossians 1:9
    For this reason we also, from the day we heard of it, have not ceased to pray and make [ special] request for you, [asking] that you may be filled with the full (deep and clear) knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom [ in comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God] and in understanding and discernment of spiritual things—
    Colossians 1:8-10 (in Context) Colossians 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
14. 1 Thessalonians 5:2
    For you yourselves know perfectly well that the day of the [return of the] Lord will come [as unexpectedly and suddenly] as a thief in the night.
    1 Thessalonians 5:1-3 (in Context) 1 Thessalonians 5 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
15. 1 Thessalonians 5:4
    But you are not in [given up to the power of] darkness, brethren, for that day to overtake you by surprise like a thief.
    1 Thessalonians 5:3-5 (in Context) 1 Thessalonians 5 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
16. 2 Thessalonians 1:10
    When He comes to be glorified in His saints [on that day He will be made more glorious in His consecrated people], and [He will] be marveled at and admired [in His glory reflected] in all who have believed [who have adhered to, trusted in, and relied on Him], because our witnessing among you was confidently accepted and believed [and confirmed in your lives].
    2 Thessalonians 1:9-11 (in Context) 2 Thessalonians 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
17. 2 Thessalonians 2:2
    Not to allow your minds to be quickly unsettled or disturbed or kept excited or alarmed, whether it be by some [pretended] revelation of [the] Spirit or by word or by letter [alleged to be] from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has [already] arrived and is here.
    2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 (in Context) 2 Thessalonians 2 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
18. 2 Thessalonians 2:3
    Let no one deceive or beguile you in any way, for that day will not come except the apostasy comes first [unless the predicted great falling away of those who have professed to be Christians has come], and the man of lawlessness (sin) is revealed, who is the son of doom (of perdition),
    2 Thessalonians 2:2-4 (in Context) 2 Thessalonians 2 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
19. 2 Timothy 1:12
    And this is why I am suffering as I do. Still I am not ashamed, for I know (perceive, have knowledge of, and am acquainted with) Him Whom I have believed (adhered to and trusted in and relied on), and I am [positively] persuaded that He is able to guard and keep that which has been entrusted to me and which I have committed [to Him] until that day.
    2 Timothy 1:11-13 (in Context) 2 Timothy 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
20. 2 Timothy 1:18
    May the Lord grant to him that he may find mercy from the Lord on that [great] day! And you know how many things he did for me and what a help he was at Ephesus [you know better than I can tell you].
    2 Timothy 1:17-18 (in Context) 2 Timothy 1 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
21. 2 Timothy 4:8
    [As to what remains] henceforth there is laid up for me the [victor’s] crown of righteousness [for being right with God and doing right], which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me and recompense me on that [great] day—and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved and yearned for and welcomed His appearing (His return).
    2 Timothy 4:7-9 (in Context) 2 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
22. 1 Peter 2:12
    Conduct yourselves properly (honorably, righteously) among the Gentiles, so that, although they may slander you as evildoers, [yet] they may by witnessing your good deeds [come to] glorify God in the day of inspection [ when God shall look upon you wanderers as a pastor or shepherd looks over his flock].
    1 Peter 2:11-13 (in Context) 1 Peter 2 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
23. 2 Peter 3:10
    But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will vanish (pass away) with a thunderous crash, and the [ material] elements [of the universe] will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and the works that are upon it will be burned up.
    2 Peter 3:9-11 (in Context) 2 Peter 3 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    
24. 1 John 4:17
    In this [union and communion with Him] love is brought to completion and attains perfection with us, that we may have confidence for the day of judgment [with assurance and boldness to face Him], because as He is, so are we in this world.
    1 John 4:16-18 (in Context) 1 John 4 (Whole Chapter) Other Translations
    

Be prepared: lest your hearts be overburdened and depressed

Luke 21:34 take heed

The Lord is merciful and tells the watchman: “be prepared!” There is no other more important thing to do at this point of time except to be watchful, prayerful and guard your heart against the deceptions of this time!”

Luke 21:34 (KJ21) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness and cares of this life, and so that Day come upon you unawares.

Luke 21:34 (ASV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ But take heed to yourselves, lest haply your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day come on you suddenly as a snare:

Luke 21:34 (AMP) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ But take heed to yourselves and be on your guard, lest your hearts be overburdened and depressed (weighed down) with the giddiness and headache and nausea of self-indulgence, drunkenness, and worldly worries and cares pertaining to [the business of] this life, and [lest] that day come upon you suddenly like a trap or a noose;

Luke 21:34 (CEB) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Take care that your hearts aren’t dulled by drinking parties, drunkenness, and the anxieties of day-to-day life. Don’t let that day fall upon you unexpectedly,

Luke 21:34 (CJB) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “But keep watch on yourselves, or your hearts will become dulled by carousing, drunkenness and the worries of everyday living, and that Day will be sprung upon you suddenly like a trap!

Luke 21:34 (CEV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

A Warning

³⁴ Don’t spend all of your time thinking about eating or drinking or worrying about life. If you do, the final day will suddenly catch you

Luke 21:34 (DARBY) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ But take heed to yourselves lest possibly your hearts be laden with surfeiting and drinking and cares of life, and that day come upon you suddenly unawares;

Luke 21:34 (DRA) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ And take heed to yourselves, lest perhaps your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly.

Luke 21:34 (ERV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

Be Ready All the Time

³⁴ “Be careful not to spend your time having parties and getting drunk or worrying about this life. If you do that, you won’t be able to think straight, and the end might come when you are not ready.

Luke 21:34 (ESV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

Watch Yourselves

³⁴ “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.

Luke 21:34 (ESVUK) | In Context | Whole Chapter

Watch Yourselves

³⁴ “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.

Luke 21:34 (GW) | In Context | Whole Chapter

No One Knows When the Earth and the Heavens Will Disappear

³⁴ “Make sure that you don’t become drunk, hung over, and worried about life. Then that day could suddenly catch you by surprise

Luke 21:34 (GNT) | In Context | Whole Chapter

The Need to Watch

³⁴ “Be careful not to let yourselves become occupied with too much feasting and drinking and with the worries of this life, or that Day may suddenly catch you

Luke 21:34 (HCSB) | In Context | Whole Chapter

The Need for Watchfulness

³⁴ “Be on your guard, so that your minds are not dulled from carousing, drunkenness, and worries of life, or that day will come on you unexpectedly

Luke 21:34-35 (PHILLIPS) | In Context | Whole Chapter

^34-35 “Be on your guard—see to it that your minds are never clouded by dissipation or drunkenness or the worries of this life, or else that day may catch you like the springing of a trap—for it will come upon every inhabitant of the whole earth.

Luke 21:34 (KJV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.

Luke 21:34 (LEB) | In Context | Whole Chapter

Be Alert

³⁴ “But take care for yourselves, lest your hearts are weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of daily life, and that day come upon you suddenly

Luke 21:34-36 (MSG) | In Context | Whole Chapter

^34-36 “But be on your guard. Don’t let the sharp edge of your expectation get dulled by parties and drinking and shopping. Otherwise, that Day is going to take you by complete surprise, spring on you suddenly like a trap, for it’s going to come on everyone, everywhere, at once. So, whatever you do, don’t go to sleep at the switch. Pray constantly that you will have the strength and wits to make it through everything that’s coming and end up on your feet before the Son of Man.”

Luke 21:34 (MOUNCE) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “But watch yourselves lest your minds be dulled by dissipation and drunkenness and the anxieties of this life, and that day close down upon you suddenly,

Luke 21:34 (NASB) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap;

Luke 21:34 (NCV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Be careful not to spend your time feasting, drinking, or worrying about worldly things. If you do, that day might come on you suddenly,

Luke 21:34 (NIRV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Be careful. If you aren’t, your hearts will be loaded down with wasteful living, drunkenness and the worries of life. Then the day the Son of Man returns will close on you like a trap. You will not be expecting it.

Luke 21:34 (NIV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.

Luke 21:34 (NIV1984) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap.

Luke 21:34 (NIVUK) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ ‘Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.

Luke 21:34 (NKJV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

The Importance of Watching

³⁴ “But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly.

Luke 21:34 (NLV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ Watch yourselves! Do not let yourselves be loaded down with too much eating and strong drink. Do not be troubled with the cares of this life. If you do, that day will come on you without you knowing it.

Luke 21:34 (NLT) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware,

Lukas 21:34 (OJB) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ And be shomer regarding yourselves lest your levavot (hearts) may be burdened with dissipation and drunkenness and the cares of the Olam HaZeh and Yom HaHu (That Day) may come upon you PITOM (suddenly, MALACHI 3:1).

Luke 21:34 (TNIV) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap.

Luke 21:34 (WE) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ `But take care. Do not think too much about eating, drinking, and things in this life. If you do, that day will come and catch you like a trap.

Luke 21:34 (WYC) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ But take ye heed to yourselves [Forsooth perceive ye, or take heed, to yourselves], lest peradventure your hearts be grieved with gluttony, and drunkenness, and busynesses of this life, and that day come suddenly on you [and that day come sudden upon you];

Luke 21:34 (YLT) | In Context | Whole Chapter

³⁴ `And take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts may be weighed down with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day may come on you,