^“On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have appointed watchmen; All day and all night they will never keep silent. You who remind the Lord, take no rest for yourselves.” – Isaiah 62:6

The Bible uses the word watchman to describe a specific part of prophetic ministry because they function in the spiritual realm in the same way as watchmen do in the natural. In ancient times, cities were protected by large walls with high towers. In these towers stood the watchmen.

Spiritual watchmen stand on the walls of the city of God, paying attention to what God is doing and calling the people to respond.

Watchmen also look out to see what evil is on the horizon asking God at the same time for His strategy in how to respond. The main principle of this ministry is not focusing on the enemy, but being in communication with God to get His perspective and tactics.

Intercession is another key area of this ministry.  We are called to pray in to what God is showing us so danger can be diverted and Gods purposes can come forth.

It is the nature of God to protect.

It is part of our covenant with Him. The protection and safety of God’s people and His church is the true purpose of a watchman. They serve as our guardians.

God uses the watchmen to pray for the church as well as individuals so the fullness of what He is doing will come to pass. Watchmen defend the church with their prayers, and their intercession acts as a hedge of protection around the people of God. Prayer and worship will help clarify our sight into the spirit and the resulting prayers can drive away the enemy without having to publicly notify people of what we are seeing. Another important function of the watchman ministry is to know the times and seasons we are living in in relation to God.

As a watchman, it is important to recognize your sphere of authority. The watchmen were not necessarily elders, their job was to simply communicate what they saw with those in authority so those leaders could respond as they felt appropriate. Watchmen cannot dictate the outworking of the prophetic revelation they receive. Therefore, having good relationship with authority figures is important because trust is the bridge that makes this possible.

Trust is required on both sides to see this ministry thrive and be effective.

To find out more about how to grow in the prophetic, sign up for our level two training – Advancing in the Prophetic this weekend, October 20^th – 21st. In this course, we will teach on how to activate and grow in maturity in the prophetic. It is aimed for people who already know the basics of the prophetic and have walked this out. Click here to register.