Watchful
Knitted Eggs
Oh dear friends, we are being watched. God is watching; angels are encamped around us watching; our families, neighbors and friends have their eyes peeled and yes, sometimes rolling as they watch us. And these smart TV's, phones and computers with their cameras are probably watching more than we are even aware.
We were reminded in Friday's devo to "keep our eyes on Jesus, who leads us and makes our faith complete." Hebrews 12:2
Here are three other excellent watchful reminders.
"Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving." Colossians 4:2
"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8
A recent sermon at our church from Acts chapter 7 concerning Stephen's stoning had a great impact on me related to what can come from a watchful eye.
Verses 54-60
"Now when they (the council members) heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him. But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. And he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” But they cried out with a loud voice and stopped their ears and rushed together at him. Then they cast him out of the city and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul. And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And falling to his knees he cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
There is so much to take from this passage. One, "he fell asleep" is surely the perfect way to say that a Christian has passed from this life to the next.
Another incredible visual is that Stephen saw Jesus not seated, but standing at the right hand of God. What a welcoming site.
But here's the big take away for me as I contemplate all the people who are watching us.
"A young man named Saul" was there watching all of this that Stephen endured and I don't think he ever forgot what he saw. Saul became Paul and what an impactful eternal ministry God had planned for Paul.
So, whatever it is God is calling you to today, take courage! Remember Stephen, remember Paul and remember all the people who were watching.
Here's a peek from my Coloring the Promises book.
2 Timothy 1:7
