Watchmen on the Wall

“I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by His appearing and His kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires; and will turn away their ears from the truth, and will turn aside to myths. But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Tim. 4:1-7

I’m told the Great Wall of China was breached only three times - each time it was by bribing the gatekeepers.

Did the wall fail? No! The humans failed! Why? The character of the gatekeepers hadn’t developed sufficiently to withstand the temptations placed at their feet. God’s gleam and a moment’s profit held more attraction for them than the lives of others, including their neighbors.

As you read our text once more, note that in the fulfillment of us, verse 3 is upon us. God grants us the grace to stand strong, be fruitful, and finish well.

Don’t give into the temptations around you. Rather, be sober, endure hardships, and fulfill your ministry.

Above all, run the race and keep the faith.