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The Lifestyle of a Watchman: A 21-Day Journey to Becoming a Guardian in Prayer
Unique, Powerful Call to the Front Lines of Prayer
From bestselling author James W. Goll, a strategic prophetic leader in global intercessory prayer, comes an in-depth journey into the heart of what it means to be a "watchman on the wall." Designed for serious worshipers and intercessors, this unique 21-day journey will help you move to the front lines of prayer--becoming more alert to the presence of God and praying his will with confidence.
With reflection questions, devotional prayers, and practical application, this book will help you
· discern the specific spiritual atmosphere around you
· discover the strategies of God for certain times
· pray more effectively for others
· understand how to intercede for current events
Walking in the lifestyle of a watchman means that you can be the sentinel that God is calling his mature intercessors to be. Learn to partner with the strategies of heaven and step boldly into your calling.
From bestselling author James W. Goll, a strategic prophetic leader in global intercessory prayer, comes an in-depth journey into the heart of what it means to be a "watchman on the wall." Designed for serious worshipers and intercessors, this unique 21-day journey will help you move to the front lines of prayer--becoming more alert to the presence of God and praying his will with confidence.
With reflection questions, devotional prayers, and practical application, this book will help you
· discern the specific spiritual atmosphere around you
· discover the strategies of God for certain times
· pray more effectively for others
· understand how to intercede for current events
Walking in the lifestyle of a watchman means that you can be the sentinel that God is calling his mature intercessors to be. Learn to partner with the strategies of heaven and step boldly into your calling.
304 pages, Paperback
Published April 4, 2017
158 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
James W. Goll
282 books138 followersJames W. Goll, formerly known as Jim Goll, is the Director of Prayer Storm (founded 2009), Coordinator of Encounters Alliance, and author.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 8, 2017
[Note: This book was provided free of charge by Chosen Books. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
Although I am by no means a famous or notable prayer warrior, even within my own denominational culture, the subject of intercessory prayer is one that I am definitely familiar with and do reflect on from time to time [1]. Fairly commonly I am asked to pray on behalf of a choir, or on behalf of my local congregation, and it is a responsibility I take seriously. Moreover, at times I have prayed for many hours, sometimes even all night, concerning the crises that I have been a part of during the course of my eventful life. I say this not to brag about my own prayer life, but rather to comment on the fact that the subject matter of this book is certainly one that deals with one of my own characteristic concerns. And, it should be pointed out, that this book does a good job at bringing to bear passages that relate to the duties of a watchman in a wide variety of ways, making this a worthwhile book for those who want to be encouraged in praying for others.
In terms of its contents, this book contains an introduction and then twenty-one chapters break up the task of intercessory prayer into three parts, each of them with a characteristic figure. The first seven chapters for seven days focus on Abraham as a figure for intimate intercession, dealing personally and directly with God. The second seven chapters deal with Anna, the elderly prophetess who prophesied over the baby Jesus in the temple, as an example of a lifestyle of sacrifice. The third seven chapters for the last seven days deal with Daniel as a model of consecration, and praying for institutions and leaders in the grand scheme of events. Each of the chapters includes a key scripture, some extensive commentary, often drawing upon the lives of famous prayer warriors in the Bible and in more contemporary experience, as well as a prayer and some questions for the reader to ask in order to think about the contents of the chapter as a whole. All in all, this book is an effective introduction for the reader on the matter of intercessory prayer and it contains many references to the lives of others, some of whom I have even heard about, as well as to other books and ministries related to the general subject.
Is this an effective book at its subject? I would say that it is. Certainly this book was thought-provoking for me, and in reading this book I wondered for myself if I do a good enough job at interceding for others in my life, as well as church leaders and political leaders who could certainly use my prayers and those of other believers. For those of us who believe that much of our political scene is unseemly and that our society is in a state of moral crisis, intercessory prayers marks a way to engage in the real spiritual battleground that we are called to deal with as believers. Additionally, it is hard to feel badly about people we pray for and are genuinely concerned about spiritually. All of this suggests that the author has done a good job at dealing with a topic that can be somewhat complicated and contentious. That is not to say that I think this work is beyond criticism, as its detailed categories of intercessory prayer warriors was more than a little bit off-putting and a bit too tidy, but rather that I think this book succeeded in its mission and is worthy of being read and considered thoughtfully, which is all I can expect from a book of this subject matter and approach.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2014...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2014...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2013...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2010...
Although I am by no means a famous or notable prayer warrior, even within my own denominational culture, the subject of intercessory prayer is one that I am definitely familiar with and do reflect on from time to time [1]. Fairly commonly I am asked to pray on behalf of a choir, or on behalf of my local congregation, and it is a responsibility I take seriously. Moreover, at times I have prayed for many hours, sometimes even all night, concerning the crises that I have been a part of during the course of my eventful life. I say this not to brag about my own prayer life, but rather to comment on the fact that the subject matter of this book is certainly one that deals with one of my own characteristic concerns. And, it should be pointed out, that this book does a good job at bringing to bear passages that relate to the duties of a watchman in a wide variety of ways, making this a worthwhile book for those who want to be encouraged in praying for others.
In terms of its contents, this book contains an introduction and then twenty-one chapters break up the task of intercessory prayer into three parts, each of them with a characteristic figure. The first seven chapters for seven days focus on Abraham as a figure for intimate intercession, dealing personally and directly with God. The second seven chapters deal with Anna, the elderly prophetess who prophesied over the baby Jesus in the temple, as an example of a lifestyle of sacrifice. The third seven chapters for the last seven days deal with Daniel as a model of consecration, and praying for institutions and leaders in the grand scheme of events. Each of the chapters includes a key scripture, some extensive commentary, often drawing upon the lives of famous prayer warriors in the Bible and in more contemporary experience, as well as a prayer and some questions for the reader to ask in order to think about the contents of the chapter as a whole. All in all, this book is an effective introduction for the reader on the matter of intercessory prayer and it contains many references to the lives of others, some of whom I have even heard about, as well as to other books and ministries related to the general subject.
Is this an effective book at its subject? I would say that it is. Certainly this book was thought-provoking for me, and in reading this book I wondered for myself if I do a good enough job at interceding for others in my life, as well as church leaders and political leaders who could certainly use my prayers and those of other believers. For those of us who believe that much of our political scene is unseemly and that our society is in a state of moral crisis, intercessory prayers marks a way to engage in the real spiritual battleground that we are called to deal with as believers. Additionally, it is hard to feel badly about people we pray for and are genuinely concerned about spiritually. All of this suggests that the author has done a good job at dealing with a topic that can be somewhat complicated and contentious. That is not to say that I think this work is beyond criticism, as its detailed categories of intercessory prayer warriors was more than a little bit off-putting and a bit too tidy, but rather that I think this book succeeded in its mission and is worthy of being read and considered thoughtfully, which is all I can expect from a book of this subject matter and approach.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2016...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2015...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2014...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2014...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2013...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2010...
August 30, 2017
Why I Choose this Book:
Although prayer has always been a part of my life, I know I don't pray enough, nor do I always pray the way I should. I'm working on becoming much more intentional about praying.
What I Thought about this Book:
Mr. Goll's writing style is one that works well with the "average" person. I didn't feel like he was talking down to the reader, and yet it was easy to understand what he was writing. Sometimes with theological books, I'm left going "Wait, what in the world does that even mean?" Thankfully that wasn't the case with this book.
This book is supposed to be read over twenty-one days - one chapter for each day. I have a hard time keeping pace because I'm always chomping at the bit to finish a book. But, when I started the book I made the decision to go at the correct pace and try and implement what I was learning, and I'm glad I did.
I've always known that prayer was important, and this book really stresses that truth. In today's age we have phones (etc...) constantly at our fingertips and therefore don't experience many of the quiet moments like before (waiting in line, while taking a break, etc....). It's more important than ever to be intentional to not only set aside time for prayer, but to also snag those moments throughout the day. I'm in awe of the fact that we can pray anywhere and at any time and I want to take advantage of that blessing.
Mr. Goll's book talks about different types of prayers and different types of people who are called to pray for specific things. (Prophetic prayer, prayers for the church, etc....) He also highlights various prayer warriors at the end of each chapter. He includes a mixture of living, biblical, and historical people, with each person having made a difference in the world through their prayer.
The book contains a lot of scriptures - something I've always appreciated when it comes to a nonfiction book about studying the Bible/learning to have a closer walk with God.
Conclusion:
Some really good points were brought out in this book, but I was also a little bit surprised at some of the points that weren't talked about in the book. Overall though, the book was well written and I would recommend it to people who are seeking to grow closer to God.
Rating:
I’m giving The Lifestyle of a Watchman 4 out of 5 stars, and 7 out of 10
*I received this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest review
Although prayer has always been a part of my life, I know I don't pray enough, nor do I always pray the way I should. I'm working on becoming much more intentional about praying.
What I Thought about this Book:
Mr. Goll's writing style is one that works well with the "average" person. I didn't feel like he was talking down to the reader, and yet it was easy to understand what he was writing. Sometimes with theological books, I'm left going "Wait, what in the world does that even mean?" Thankfully that wasn't the case with this book.
This book is supposed to be read over twenty-one days - one chapter for each day. I have a hard time keeping pace because I'm always chomping at the bit to finish a book. But, when I started the book I made the decision to go at the correct pace and try and implement what I was learning, and I'm glad I did.
I've always known that prayer was important, and this book really stresses that truth. In today's age we have phones (etc...) constantly at our fingertips and therefore don't experience many of the quiet moments like before (waiting in line, while taking a break, etc....). It's more important than ever to be intentional to not only set aside time for prayer, but to also snag those moments throughout the day. I'm in awe of the fact that we can pray anywhere and at any time and I want to take advantage of that blessing.
Mr. Goll's book talks about different types of prayers and different types of people who are called to pray for specific things. (Prophetic prayer, prayers for the church, etc....) He also highlights various prayer warriors at the end of each chapter. He includes a mixture of living, biblical, and historical people, with each person having made a difference in the world through their prayer.
The book contains a lot of scriptures - something I've always appreciated when it comes to a nonfiction book about studying the Bible/learning to have a closer walk with God.
Conclusion:
Some really good points were brought out in this book, but I was also a little bit surprised at some of the points that weren't talked about in the book. Overall though, the book was well written and I would recommend it to people who are seeking to grow closer to God.
Rating:
I’m giving The Lifestyle of a Watchman 4 out of 5 stars, and 7 out of 10
*I received this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest review
May 10, 2017
I so enjoyed this book. The 21-day journey "into the heart of being a watchman" as the book blurb describes it is an excellent summation. Through excellent Biblical example accentuated with vignettes of great intercessors of the past and present, Goll helped me confirm my assignment as a watchman (for individuals) and drew me closer to the Lord and His purposes.
Each chapter is 4-5 pages long and provides an outline of the topic, an example of someone living it and ends with a prayer and some challenging questions. What I particularly loved about this book was that each time I opened it I moved into intercession for those the Lord placed on my heart.
A book about prayer that enhances ones' prayer life and stirs your heart is a good one. I plan to start reading it again tomorrow.
If you sense the Lord is leading you to be an intercessor grab a copy of this book.
Each chapter is 4-5 pages long and provides an outline of the topic, an example of someone living it and ends with a prayer and some challenging questions. What I particularly loved about this book was that each time I opened it I moved into intercession for those the Lord placed on my heart.
A book about prayer that enhances ones' prayer life and stirs your heart is a good one. I plan to start reading it again tomorrow.
If you sense the Lord is leading you to be an intercessor grab a copy of this book.
June 17, 2017
Do you feel called to pray for more. Maybe for things you aren’t even sure what exactly?
This book will challenge you to take that next step. I always find James books inspiring and pushing me to hunger for more of God. This book stays true to that.
I love how he uses Biblical examples of people who had a life of prayer, starting with Abraham. Not only does he uses Biblical examples but he also uses examples of people who aren’t in the Bible.
Each chapter is a short (not super short) read that you can easily do in about 10 minutes or less.
If you are looking for more in your prayer life and are feeling a call to be in prayer then I recommend this book.
A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley.com. All opinions are my own.
This book will challenge you to take that next step. I always find James books inspiring and pushing me to hunger for more of God. This book stays true to that.
I love how he uses Biblical examples of people who had a life of prayer, starting with Abraham. Not only does he uses Biblical examples but he also uses examples of people who aren’t in the Bible.
Each chapter is a short (not super short) read that you can easily do in about 10 minutes or less.
If you are looking for more in your prayer life and are feeling a call to be in prayer then I recommend this book.
A copy of this book was given to me through Netgalley.com. All opinions are my own.
December 17, 2017
If only we would realize how important and powerful intercessory prayer is we'd be doing more of it...I enjoyed this book on prayer and how God uses His people to bring about change in other's lives and the world when we pray according to His will. The author uses prayer warriors from the bible as examples of the different types of prayer such as Abraham and Daniel...two people close to God's heart. He goes on to show the reader how to be effective and also included questions to ponder as well as interesting commentary. This is a very helpful book to anyone who has questions about prayer.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2017
The Lifestyle of a Watchman by James W. Goll is a very biblical and practical book to help you learn how to partner with God for become a intercessory prayer. This book is divided for 21 days. You will become more alert to the presence of God after reading this book.
Open your heart & read this book.
Thank you Negalley for this book
Open your heart & read this book.
Thank you Negalley for this book
April 23, 2019
Awesome book
December 24, 2022
This book talk more on intercessors and how to be the one through our prayer life.
Read
December 14, 2023Inspirational! An excellent lesson in the importance of prayer.
November 3, 2019
Watchman on guard
This book is for every believer and yet specially for those who have a calling of intercession. The daily digest and reflections are filling to the soul & spirit, yet challenging for the spirit.
This book is for every believer and yet specially for those who have a calling of intercession. The daily digest and reflections are filling to the soul & spirit, yet challenging for the spirit.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews