Bible Study Verse
Mark 13:36-37
"If He comes suddenly, do not let Him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'" (NIV)
Thoughts
My son taught me the art of looking for game with binoculars. It is truly an important part of what we do as hunters. We scout for game ahead of the season; and during the hunt, we always look for our trophy. Watching and doing it right pays off.
In my reading this morning, I noticed how the word "watch" kept popping up. It appears three times in Mark 13 and 14. The Greek word for "watch" used in these verses is "vigilant", keep watch or stay awake. Webster's adds emphasis by saying "alertly watchful, especially to avoid danger." Jesus was making a point in this parable by using the word "watch" three times in the same manner for added emphasis.
(Byron S)
Action Point
We can see here that there is a difference in the kinds of "watching" that we do, simply by the use and meaning of the word. No problem in the Greek, they spell the words differently in order that the reader could discern the differences. The word "watch" as it is used in Mark is telling us to be vigilant in order to avoid danger.
The Holy Spirit continues this theme in Acts, I Corinthians, Colossians, I Thessalonians, I Peter and Revelation each time saying, be vigilant.
We can strengthen our vigil by staying in God's Word each day and applying the knowledge He gives us to world affairs. Stay current, keep watching; and remember what you learned as a child - practice makes perfect. Sportsmen's Tip of the DayWhen practicing your skill with binoculars, try using a tripod to steady them. This will help you find more game. You can also practice your skill in daily Bible study by using online helps like the Greek Lexicon. You will find this and many other helps at Blueletterbible.org. These aides will truly enhance your study. | 
