What enemies are abroad? Errors are a numerous horde, and new ones appear every hour—against what heresy must I guard? When darkness reigns, sins creep from their lurking places. I must mount the watchtower myself and watch unto prayer.

Our heavenly Protector foresees all the attacks about to be made upon us. While the evil designed against us is still but a desire in Satan's heart, Christ prays for us that our faith fail not when we are sifted as wheat. Continue, O gracious Watchman, to forewarn us of our foes! For Zion's sake, hold not your peace!

"Watchman, what of the night?" What weather is coming for the Church? Are the clouds lowering, or is it all clear and fair overhead? We must care for the Church of God with anxious love. Now that false religion and unbelief are both threatening, let us observe the signs of the times and prepare for conflict.

"Watchman, what of the night?" What stars are visible? What precious promises suit our present case? You sound the alarm—give us the consolation also! Christ, the polestar, is ever fixed in his place, and all the stars are secure in the right hand of their Lord.

But watchman, when comes the morning? The Bridegroom tarries. Are there no signs of his coming forth as the Sun of Righteousness? Has not the morning star arisen as the pledge of day? When will the day dawn and the shadows flee away?

O Jesus, if you come not in person to your waiting Church this day, yet come in Spirit to my sighing heart and make it sing for joy! Now all the earth is bright and glad with the fresh morn, but all my heart is cold and dark and sad. Sun of the soul, let me behold your dawn! Come, Jesus, Lord—O quickly come, according to your word!