The 4th Watch
When writing in my Nehemiah & Me journal, I always include the day, and if I’m writing and praying between 3 AM and 6 AM, I note the 4th Watch. It’s not always easy to rise that early, but I understand it is a powerful time to be praying. I first learned about the 4th Watch when I was painting, portraying Jesus on the mountain, having seen the disciples in their boat miles from shore, in middle of the Sea of Galilee in the midst of a storm; their oars struggling against huge waves.
Why would the disciples be out at night? Because that was one of the times when fishing was at its best. Besides, Jesus told the disciples that they should take the boat and get away from the crowds that had followed Him all day. He was going up the mountain to pray. Now, trying to ride out the fierce storm, the disciples were probably crying out, “If Jesus was only here!” Jesus, having seen them from the mountain, went to them. Again, this teaches us that He is always with us. He knows what goes on in our life, and when we are in troubled waters. Yet, the disciples saw His figure walking on water towards them, and feared He was a ghost; they became even more frightened, until Jesus called out, “Be of good cheer! It is I! Do not be afraid.”
Mark 6:46 says, “The disciples were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure.” Think about it. Christ was far away on the mountain, saw their predicament, came down, and walked on the water to reach them. I marvel because it was the 4th Watch, between 3 AM and 6 AM, still dark out. Although it was typical of Christ to be praying while it was dark, before the sun was up. Yet, I was curious about the reference to the 4th Watch.
Research reveals the Fourth Watch is considered a time of great spiritual power. Miracles are performed, battles are won. The exodus from Egypt happened at that time. Many of the Jewish scholars and people believe it is a time when God walks the earth, checking on His creation. I like that idea—Jesus walking through our neighborhoods in the early morning hours. I imagine Him looking in my window, or waking me up at 3 AM to walk and pray with Him. I reasoned that if Jesus gets up while it is dark, then perhaps I should, especially since I long to be like Him. Plus, how many times have I awakened in the middle of the night, feeling an urgency to pray for someone? Why not get up, and accept Christ’s invitation to pray? After several years of getting up early for the 4th Watch, I confess I’m not consistent about rising at 3; sometimes it’s 4 or 5, and sometimes I fall back to sleep. Prayer is important anytime time, all the time.
Online, I found many references to the 4th Watch. Below are two that mention its significance:
I. www.activechristians.org.uk. “This is the time of the morning when the Israelites were delivered from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12 and 14). This is also the time Jesus walked on the water to help the disciples who were caught in the storm (Matthew 14:25-33). . . . This is the time for all of the enemy’s plans and strategies to fail. This watch is for gaining territory, establishing the spirit of prosperity and stopping the devil from hijacking blessings and favor. This prayer watch sets our day before it begins."
II. On YouTube, Perry Stone talks about the 4th Watch as he stands, overlooking the Sea of Galilee.
But wait, there’s more! While some individuals follow scriptural examples mentioned in the Bible, there are organizations, i.e. www.theglobalwatch.com which encourages prayer warriors to wake up and join in between 3 AM and 6 AM with people all over the world who are praying.
I encourage you to wake up and try it if you haven’t already. It’s a special time that could greatly amaze you beyond measure.
I rise before the dawning of the morning, and cry for help;
I hope in Your word. My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word.
* Psalm 119:147
