God Stay Watching
Do you know how sometimes people say something and it just sticks with you? Years may go by, you may not see them for a long time, and yet you still remember what they said. For example, growing up I can remember my dad telling me "give until it hurts" as he tried to teach me about sacrifice. I remember my daughter Avery, as a young child, would say "I can do it all my byself" (translation: all by myself). She always has been very independent. Then at Mt. Hermon many years ago, I met a friend from Hawaii, Big Jon, who would always say "God stay watching" in his thick Pidgin-English accent. I'll never forget that! At times, it can be disconcerting to think that God sees me even when I'm doing something wrong. But on a positive note, Jon's words reinforced a truth that has stuck with me ever since: God watches over His people.
As Christians, we're not exempt from trial and hardship. In the journey of life, we know that good and bad things will befall all of us from time to time. Believers experience health problems, financial troubles, accidents, temptations, and stress just like everyone else. During the pandemic these past two years, we know many brothers and sisters in Christ that have been infected or affected by COVID and others that have experienced pain and suffering for one reason or another. Life is full of difficulties. But, in those times, we must not think that God has forgotten or forsaken us. Why? Because God stay watching. These were not just my friend Jon's words, this is the message of Psalm 121. In verses 3-4, the psalmist says "he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep."
God is like a bodyguard. His eyes are always on His people. He's vigilant, active, and does not take a break. His watchcare over you is constant. Though we will not be able to avoid all pain and suffering, and the road ahead may be difficult, His promise is to be with us and to help us no matter what. The psalmist concludes Psalm 121 by saying (verses 5-8): "The LORD watches over you - the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm - he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Beloved, for the days ahead, for 2022, take heart and remember that no matter what you may go through, "God stay watching" and He will help you if you call on Him.
Pastor Darren
