1 Samuel 14:16 (NKJV)
“Now the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked, and there was the multitude, melting away; and they went here and there.”

Watchmen are sharp observers. Watchmen are very focused people. Watchmen have their eyes set on God and on the field. God raises watchmen to communicate realities in His heart to His people, as well as the realities of the people to God’s heart. A community without watchmen is doomed to destruction.

Another name for these watchmen are, “prophetic intercessors”. They don’t just pray. They pray with their spiritual eyes and ears open. They are eager to cry to God on behalf of men and cry to men on behalf of God. They are the bridge between heaven and earth. But to be effective in doing this assignment, they tend to be extremely focused people, and this sometimes makes them look and act weird.

In the context of today’s verse, while others were busy doing their business, these watchmen were observing their surroundings and were the first ones to observe that something was wrong. They observed that people were “melting away” in the camp of the Philistines. They observed strange movements, and they quickly reported the issue to the king.

Watchmen usually don’t have the resources to bring about physical change to situations, and that is why people sometimes undervalue their worth. Watchmen see and hear, but may be unable to implement. They can give advice and recommendations but may not have the resources to enforce anything. That’s why they must work close to those who have the authority to do something.

Leaders need watchmen around them. No matter who you are, make sure you are either a watchman or you have a watchman close to you. These underrated ministers of the last days can bring great change to any society, not because they can do anything of themselves, but because they see and hear what others don’t. Don’t underrate this ministry. They have their place in the Body and need to be appreciated as such.

Are you a prophetic intercessor? Carry your ministry with great dignity because God values you greatly. Are you a leader? Make sure you have a watchman close by.