In the Old Testament, watchmen were those who relentlessly looked for the enemy outside their walls. But in the New Testament, watchers are those who joyfully look for Jesus everywhere they go:
“‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’
“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least honored of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me’” (Matt. 25:37-40).
In the Old Testament, if an ill person touched you, you were considered “unclean,” and became temporarily outcast. But in the New, when you touch hurting people, they get accepted and healed:
“A man with leprosy approached Jesus and knelt before Him. ‘Lord, if you’re willing, I know you can heal me and make me clean.’
Jesus reached out and touched him. ‘Of course I’m willing. Be healed.’ And instantly the leprosy disappeared” (Matt. 8:1-3).
In the past, you were largely on your own, and needed religious ritual to connect to God. But now, he’s as close as your own heart:
“As you live in union with me as your source, fruitfulness will stream from within you—but when you live separated from me you are powerless . . . “I love each of you with the same love that the Father loves me. You must continually let my love nourish your hearts” (John 15:5 & 9, paraphrase).
Don’t let anyone, or any circumstance, twist how you see, think, and live, to a time before Jesus redeemed your life.
Equip Your Spirit 