1. What has Jehovah given to each of his faithful servants?

JEHOVAH has lovingly given each of his faithful servants a place in his congregation. Although our roles are different, we are all valuable and we all need one another. The apostle Paul helps us to recognize this important lesson. How?

2. According to Ephesians 4:16, why do we need to value one another and work together?

2 As recorded in the theme text for this article, Paul emphasized that none of us can look at another servant of Jehovah and say “I do not need you.” (1 Cor. 12:21) If the congregation is to function peacefully, we must value one another and work together. (Read Ephesians 4:16.) When we work together in unity, the congregation thrives and is built up in love.

3. What will we discuss in this article?

3 What are some areas in which we can show respect for other Christians in the congregation? In this article, we will consider how elders can show respect for fellow elders. Next, we will discuss how all of us can show that we value our brothers and sisters who are not married. And finally, we will learn how we can show appreciation for those who may not speak our language fluently.

4. What counsel of Paul recorded at Romans 12:10 should elders follow?

4 All elders in the congregation are appointed by Jehovah’s holy spirit. Yet, each one has different gifts and abilities. (1 Cor. 12:17, 18) Some may be newly appointed and relatively inexperienced. Others may be limited because of age and health. Yet, no elder should look at any of his fellow elders and, in effect, say “I do not need you.” Instead, each elder should follow the counsel of Paul as recorded at Romans 12:10.​—Read.

5. How do elders show that they respect their fellow elders, and why is it important that they do so?

5 Elders show that they respect their fellow elders by carefully listening to them. This is especially important when the elders meet as a body to discuss serious matters. Why? Note what The Watchtower of October 1, 1988, stated: “Elders will recognize that Christ, by means of the holy spirit, can direct the mind of any elder on the body of elders to provide the Bible principle needed to cope with any situation or make any important decision. (Acts 15:6-15) No one elder has the monopoly of the spirit within the body.”

6. How can elders work together in unity, and how does the congregation benefit when they do so?

6 An elder who respects his fellow elders does not always try to speak first at elders’ meetings. He does not dominate the discussion, and he does not believe that his opinion is always right. Instead, he states his viewpoint humbly and modestly. He listens carefully to the comments of others. More important, he is eager to share Scriptural principles and to listen to direction from “the faithful and discreet slave.” (Matt. 24:45-47) As elders discuss matters in an atmosphere of love and respect, God’s holy spirit will be present, and it will guide them to reach decisions that strengthen the congregation.​—Jas. 3:17, 18.

7. How did Jesus view singleness?

7 The congregation today includes married couples and families. Yet, it also includes many brothers and sisters who are not married. How should we view those who are single? Consider how Jesus viewed singleness. During his earthly ministry, Jesus did not marry. He remained single and focused his time and attention on his assignment. Jesus never taught that it was a requirement to get married or to be single. However, he did say that some Christians would choose not to marry. (Matt. 19:11, 12; see study note on Matthew 19:12.) Jesus respected those who were not married. He did not view single people as inferior or lacking in some way.

8. According to 1 Corinthians 7:7-9, what did Paul encourage Christians to consider?

8 Like Jesus, the apostle Paul carried out his ministry as a single person. Paul never taught that it would be wrong for a Christian to marry. He recognized that this was a personal matter. Still, Paul did encourage Christians to consider whether they could serve Jehovah as single people. (Read 1 Corinthians 7:7-9.) Certainly Paul did not look down on single Christians. In fact, he chose young Timothy, a single brother, to care for weighty assignments.* (Phil. 2:19-22) Obviously, then, it would be wrong to think that a brother is more qualified or less qualified based solely on whether he is married or not.​—1 Cor. 7:32-35, 38.

9. What can we say about marriage and singleness?

9 Neither Jesus nor Paul taught that Christians must marry or that they must remain single. What, then, can we say about marriage and singleness? The Watchtower of October 1, 2012, stated it nicely when it said: “Really, both [marriage and singleness] can be described as gifts from God. . . . Jehovah does not view [singleness] as a cause for shame or grief.” With this in mind, we need to respect the place of single brothers and sisters in the congregation.

10. How can we show respect for our single brothers and sisters?

10 How can we show respect for the feelings and circumstances of our single brothers and sisters? We do well to keep in mind that some single Christians have made it a personal goal to remain unmarried. Other single Christians would like to marry, but they simply have not found the right person. Still others may have lost their mate in death. In any case, should those in the congregation feel the need to ask single Christians why they are not married or to offer to help them find a mate? Of course, some single Christians might ask for such assistance. But if help is not requested, how might such offers make our single brothers and sisters feel? (1 Thess. 4:11; 1 Tim. 5:13) Let us consider some comments from faithful single brothers and sisters.

11-12. How might we discourage single ones?

11 One single circuit overseer who is very effective in his assignment feels that there are many benefits to being single. Yet, he noted that it can be discouraging when well-meaning brothers and sisters ask him: “Why are you not married?” A single brother serving at a branch office observed: “Sometimes brothers and sisters make me feel that single ones are to be pitied. This can make it seem that singleness is a burden rather than a gift.”

12 A single sister who serves at Bethel said: “Some publishers assume that all single people are seeking a mate or that all single people view every social setting as an opportunity to find a mate. Once when I traveled to another part of the country for an assignment, I arrived on a meeting night. The sister who was hosting me told me that there were two brothers in the congregation who were my age. She assured me that she was not trying to set me up. But as soon as we got inside the Kingdom Hall, she pulled me over to meet the two brothers. Needless to say, that was quite an awkward situation for the three of us.”

13. What examples encouraged one single sister?

13 Another single sister who serves at Bethel observed: “I know older single pioneers who are well-grounded, focused, self-sacrificing, and content in their service and who add so much to a congregation. They have a balanced view of their singleness, feeling neither superior because they have stayed single nor deprived because they do not have a mate and family.” That is the beauty of a congregation in which you feel respected and valued. You feel neither pitied nor envied, neither ignored nor put on a pedestal. You just know that you belong.

14. How can we show that we respect single ones?

14 Our single brothers and sisters will be grateful if we value them based on their fine qualities and not on their marital status. Instead of feeling sorry for them, we do well to appreciate their faithfulness. As a result, our single brothers and sisters will never feel that we are saying to them: “I do not need you.” (1 Cor. 12:21) Instead, they will know that we respect them and value their place in the congregation.

15. What adjustments have some made to expand their ministry?

15 In recent years, many publishers have made it their goal to learn another language so that they can expand their ministry. Doing so means making adjustments. These brothers and sisters have left a congregation that uses their mother tongue in order to serve in a congregation where another language is spoken and where there is a greater need for Kingdom publishers. (Acts 16:9) This is a personal decision that these Christians make in order to advance Kingdom interests. Although it may take years for them to become fluent in the new language, they accomplish much good. Their fine qualities and experience strengthen and stabilize the congregation. We value these self-sacrificing brothers and sisters!

16. On what basis do elders evaluate the qualifications of brothers to serve as elders and ministerial servants?

16 A body of elders would not hold back from recommending a brother to serve as an elder or a ministerial servant simply because he is not yet fluent in the language of the congregation. The elders will evaluate a brother based on the Scriptural qualifications for elders and ministerial servants and not on how well he speaks the language of the local congregation.​—1 Tim. 3:1-10, 12, 13; Titus 1:5-9.

17. What questions do some families face when moving to another country?

17 Some Christian families have moved to another country to seek refuge or to find employment. In such cases, their children may now be educated in the main language of their new country. The parents may also need to learn the main language in order to find employment. What if there is a local congregation or group in their mother tongue? Which congregation should the family attend? Should it be a congregation in which the main language of the country is spoken or a congregation in which the family’s mother tongue is spoken?

18. In harmony with Galatians 6:5, how can we show respect for the decision of the family head?

18 The family head must decide which congregation his family will attend. Because this is a personal matter, he must consider what is in the best interests of his family. (Read Galatians 6:5.) We need to respect the decision of the family head. Whatever he decides, let us accept his decision and welcome the family as a valued part of our congregation.​—Rom. 15:7.

19. What should family heads prayerfully consider?

19 In other cases, families may be serving in a congregation that uses the mother tongue of the parents, but the children may not be fluent in that language. If that congregation is located in an area where the national language is spoken, it might be that the children struggle to understand the meetings and do not progress spiritually. Why? Because the children may attend a school that uses the national language and not their parents’ mother tongue. In such cases, family heads should prayerfully consider what they need to do to help their children to draw closer to Jehovah and his people. Either they will need to help their children to become fluent in their mother tongue or they will need to consider moving to a congregation that uses a language that their children clearly understand. Whatever the family head decides, the congregation in which he chooses to serve should make him and his family feel respected and valued.

20. How can we show that we respect our brothers and sisters who are learning a new language?

20 For all the reasons we have discussed, in many congregations, there will be brothers and sisters who are struggling to learn a new language. It might be difficult for them to express their thoughts. Yet, if we look beyond their language skills, we will see their love for Jehovah and their desire to serve him. If we see these beautiful qualities, we will deeply value and respect these brothers and sisters. We will not say “I do not need you” simply because they do not speak our language fluently.

21-22. What wonderful privilege do we have?

21 Jehovah has given us the wonderful privilege of having a place in his congregation. Whether we are male or female, single or married, young or old or we speak a certain language well or hardly at all, we are precious to Jehovah and to one another.​—Rom. 12:4, 5; Col. 3:10, 11.

22 May we continue to apply the many wonderful lessons we have learned from Paul’s illustration of the human body. In that way, we will look for even more ways to treasure our place and the place of others in Jehovah’s congregation.

1. What privilege do we enjoy?

WHAT a privilege we have to be part of Jehovah’s congregation! We are in a spiritual paradise that is full of peaceful, happy people. What is your place in the congregation?

2. What illustration did the apostle Paul use in several of his inspired letters?

2 We can learn much about this topic from an illustration that the apostle Paul used in several of his inspired letters. In each of these letters, Paul compared the congregation to the human body. He also compared the individuals in a congregation to parts of the body.​—Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph. 4:16.

3. What three lessons will we consider in this article?

3 In this article, we will consider three important lessons that we can learn from Paul’s illustration. First, we will learn that each one of us has a place* in Jehovah’s congregation. Second, we will discuss what we can do if we find it difficult to see our place in the congregation. And third, we will discuss why we need to stay busy fulfilling our own role in God’s congregation.

4. What does Romans 12:4, 5 teach us?

4 The first lesson we can learn from Paul’s illustration is that each one of us has an important place in Jehovah’s family. Paul begins his illustration by saying: “Just as we have in one body many members, but the members do not all have the same function, so we, although many, are one body in union with Christ, but individually we are members belonging to one another.” (Rom. 12:4, 5) What was Paul’s point? Each one of us has a different role in the congregation, but each one of us is valuable.

5. What “gifts” has Jehovah given to the congregation?

5 When you think of those who have a place in the congregation, your mind may immediately turn to those who take the lead. (1 Thess. 5:12; Heb. 13:17) It is true that through Christ, Jehovah has given “gifts in men” to His congregation. (Eph. 4:8) These “gifts in men” include Governing Body members, appointed helpers to the Governing Body, Branch Committee members, circuit overseers, field instructors, congregation elders, and ministerial servants. All these brothers are appointed by holy spirit to care for Jehovah’s precious sheep and serve the interests of the congregation.​—1 Pet. 5:2, 3.

6. According to 1 Thessalonians 2:6-8, what do brothers who are appointed by holy spirit strive to do?

6 Brothers are appointed by holy spirit to carry out various responsibilities. Just as various parts of the body, such as the hands and the feet, work to benefit the entire body, brothers who are appointed by holy spirit work hard to benefit the entire congregation. They do not seek personal glory. Instead, they strive to build up and strengthen their brothers and sisters. (Read 1 Thessalonians 2:6-8.) We thank Jehovah for such unselfish, spiritually qualified men!

7. What blessings do many in full-time service enjoy?

7 Some in the congregation may be appointed to serve as missionaries, special pioneers, or regular pioneers. In fact, brothers and sisters around the world have made preaching and disciple-making their full-time career. In doing so, they have helped many to become disciples of Christ Jesus. Although these full-time evangelizers usually have few material things, Jehovah has rewarded them with a life filled with blessings. (Mark 10:29, 30) We treasure these dear brothers and sisters, and we are grateful that they are part of the congregation!

8. Why is every publisher of the good news precious to Jehovah?

8 Are appointed brothers and those in the full-time ministry the only ones to have a place in the congregation? Not at all! Every publisher of the good news is important to God and to the congregation. (Rom. 10:15; 1 Cor. 3:6-9) In fact, one of the most important goals of the congregation is to make disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Matt. 28:19, 20; 1 Tim. 2:4) All who are associated with the congregation, both baptized and unbaptized publishers, try to make this work a priority.​—Matt. 24:14.

9. Why do we treasure our Christian sisters?

9 Jehovah gives Christian sisters a dignified place in the congregation. He values these wives, mothers, widows, and single sisters who loyally serve him. The Scriptures frequently mention outstanding women who pleased God. They are commended as fine examples of wisdom, faith, zeal, courage, generosity, and good works. (Luke 8:2, 3; Acts 16:14, 15; Rom. 16:3, 6; Phil. 4:3; Heb. 11:11, 31, 35) How thankful we are to Jehovah to have in our congregations Christian women who have these same beautiful qualities!

10. Why do we value our elderly ones?

10 We are also blessed to have many elderly ones. Some congregations have elderly brothers and sisters who have loyally devoted their entire life to serving Jehovah. Other older ones may have learned the truth more recently. In either case, our elderly ones may struggle with various health problems associated with advanced age. Those problems might limit what they can do in the congregation and in the preaching work. Yet, these older ones do what they can in the field ministry, and they use all the energy they have to encourage and train others! And we benefit from their experience. They are truly beautiful to Jehovah and to us.​—Prov. 16:31.

11-12. How have you been encouraged by the young ones in your congregation?

11 Think, too, about our young ones. They face many challenges as they grow up in this world dominated by Satan the Devil and his wicked philosophies. (1 John 5:19) Yet, we all feel encouraged when we see our young ones comment at meetings, share in the ministry, and courageously defend their beliefs. Yes, you young ones have an important place in Jehovah’s congregation!​—Ps. 8:2.

12 Some of our brothers and sisters, however, struggle to believe that they are a meaningful part of the congregation. What can help us to feel that we as individuals have a place in the congregation? Let us see.

13-14. Why may some feel that they are not valuable to the congregation?

13 Note the second lesson that we can learn from Paul’s illustration. He draws attention to a problem that many have today; they find it difficult to believe that they are valuable to the congregation. Paul writes: “If the foot should say, ‘Because I am not a hand, I am no part of the body,’ that does not make it no part of the body. And if the ear should say, ‘Because I am not an eye, I am no part of the body,’ that does not make it no part of the body.” (1 Cor. 12:15, 16) What point was Paul making?

14 If you compare yourself with others in the congregation, you may be blinded to your own value. Some in the congregation may be gifted teachers, good organizers, or skilled shepherds. Perhaps you feel that you do not have those gifts to the same degree. This shows that you are humble and modest. (Phil. 2:3) But be careful. If you constantly compare yourself with those who have outstanding talents, you will be disappointed in yourself. You may even feel, as Paul mentioned, that you have no place in the congregation at all. What can help you to deal with such feelings?

15. According to 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, what do we need to recognize about any gifts we may have?

15 Consider this fact: Jehovah gave some first-century Christians miraculous gifts of the holy spirit, but not all Christians received the same gifts. (Read 1 Corinthians 12:4-11.) Jehovah entrusted them with different gifts and abilities, but each Christian was valuable. Today, we do not have the miraculous gifts of the holy spirit. But the principle still applies. We may not all have the same talents, but all of us are valuable to Jehovah.

16. What counsel from the apostle Paul do we need to apply?

16 Rather than compare ourselves with other Christians, we need to apply the inspired counsel of the apostle Paul: “Let each one examine his own actions, and then he will have cause for rejoicing in regard to himself alone, and not in comparison with the other person.”​—Gal. 6:4.

17. How will we benefit if we follow Paul’s counsel?

17 If we follow Paul’s inspired counsel and examine our own actions, we may begin to see that we have unique gifts and abilities. For example, an elder may not be a gifted teacher when on the platform, but he may be very effective in the disciple-making work. Or he may not be as well-organized as some other elders in his congregation, but he might be well-known as a loving shepherd whom publishers feel free to approach for sound Scriptural advice. Or he might have a fine reputation for being hospitable. (Heb. 13:2, 16) When we clearly see our own strengths and gifts, we will have reason to feel good about what we can contribute to the congregation. And we will be less likely to envy our brothers who have gifts that are different from ours.

18. How can we develop our abilities?

18 No matter what place we have in the congregation, all of us should desire to improve in our service and develop our abilities. To help us improve, Jehovah provides wonderful training through his organization. For example, at our midweek meeting, we receive instruction on how to be more effective in our ministry. Are you taking full advantage of that training program?

19. How can you reach the goal of attending the School for Kingdom Evangelizers?

19 Another marvelous training program is the School for Kingdom Evangelizers. This school is open to brothers and sisters who are in the full-time ministry and who are between the ages of 23 and 65. It might seem to you that you could never reach this goal. But instead of making a list of reasons why you cannot attend, make a list of reasons why you want to attend. Then develop a plan that will help you meet the qualifications. With Jehovah’s help and with hard work on your part, what may have seemed impossible to you can become a reality.

20. What can we learn from Romans 12:6-8?

20 The third lesson we can learn from Paul’s illustration is found at Romans 12:6-8. (Read.) Here Paul once again shows that those in the congregation have different gifts. But now he emphasizes that we should use whatever gift we have to build up and strengthen the congregation.

21-22. What lesson can we learn from Robert and Felice?

21 Consider the example of a brother whom we will call Robert. After serving in a foreign land, he was assigned to serve at Bethel in his home country. Although he was reassured that the change of assignment was not because of any deficiency on his part, he said: “The negative view I had of myself​—feeling like a failure—​lingered for many months. There were times when I felt like quitting Bethel service.” How did he regain his joy? A fellow elder reminded him that Jehovah has trained us in each previous assignment so that we can be more useful in our current assignment. Robert recognized that he needed to stop looking at the past and start focusing on what he could do right now.

22 Brother Felice Episcopo faced a similar challenge. He and his wife graduated from Gilead in 1956 and served in the circuit work in Bolivia. In 1964 they had a child. Felice said: “We found it a challenge to leave our precious assignment. I must admit that I wasted about a year feeling sorry for myself. But with Jehovah’s help, I changed my attitude and got on with my new responsibility as a parent.” Can you relate to Robert or Felice? Do you get discouraged because you currently do not have the same privileges of service that you had in the past? If so, you will be happier if you change your focus and concentrate on what you can do right now to serve Jehovah and your brothers. Stay busy, using your gifts and abilities to help others, and you will find joy as you build up the congregation.

23. What should we take time to do, and what will we consider in the next article?

23 Each one of us is precious to Jehovah. He wants us to be part of his family. If we take time to meditate on what we can do to build up our brothers and sisters and then work hard to fill that role, we will be less likely to feel that we do not belong in the congregation! But what about the way we view others in the congregation? How can we show that we appreciate them? In our next article, we will consider that important subject.

1. Why did Jehovah create life?

THERE was a time when Jehovah was alone. But he was not lonely. He was complete in every way. Nevertheless, God wanted others to enjoy life. Motivated by love, Jehovah began creating.​—Ps. 36:9; 1 John 4:19.

2. How did Jesus and the angels feel about Jehovah’s creative works?

2 First, Jehovah created a fellow worker. Then, by means of this first Son, “all other things were created,” including millions of intelligent spirit creatures. (Col. 1:16) Jesus rejoiced at the opportunity to work with his Father. (Prov. 8:30) And the angelic sons of God also had reason to rejoice. They had front-row seats, as it were, when Jehovah and his Master Worker, Jesus, made the heavens and the earth. How did the angels respond? They “began shouting in applause” when the earth was formed, and they no doubt continued to applaud each of Jehovah’s creative works, including his final masterpiece, humans. (Job 38:7; Prov. 8:31, ftn.) Each of these creations revealed Jehovah’s love and wisdom.​—Ps. 104:24; Rom. 1:20.

3. As indicated at 1 Corinthians 15:21, 22, what does Jesus’ ransom sacrifice make possible?

3 Jehovah intended for the human family to enjoy everlasting life on the beautiful planet that he had created. But when Adam and Eve rebelled against their loving Father, sin and death cast a shadow over the earth. (Rom. 5:12) How did Jehovah respond? Immediately, he stated how he would rescue mankind. (Gen. 3:15) Jehovah purposed to provide a ransom that would make it possible for Adam and Eve’s children to be freed from sin and death. He could then allow each person to choose to serve Him and to receive everlasting life.​—John 3:16; Rom. 6:23; read 1 Corinthians 15:21, 22.

4. What questions will we consider in this article?

4 God’s promise to resurrect the dead raises a number of questions. For example, how will the resurrection likely take place? Will we be able to recognize our loved ones when they are brought back to life? In what ways will the resurrection bring us joy? And how can meditating on the resurrection build our appreciation for Jehovah’s love, wisdom, and patience? Let us consider each of those questions.

5. Why is it reasonable to believe that people will be resurrected in an orderly, gradual manner?

5 When Jehovah through his Son resurrects countless millions, we may assume that not all of them will come back to life at the same time. Why not? Because an explosion in the earth’s population would likely cause chaos. And Jehovah never does anything in a disorganized, chaotic way. He knows that for peace to last, order must be maintained. (1 Cor. 14:33) Jehovah God was wise and patient when he worked with Jesus to prepare the earth in a gradual manner before creating mankind. In turn, Jesus will display those same qualities during the Thousand Year Reign when he works with Armageddon survivors as they prepare the earth to receive resurrected ones.

6. According to Acts 24:15, who will be among those resurrected by Jehovah?

6 Most important of all, those who survive Armageddon will need to teach resurrected ones about God’s Kingdom and about Jehovah’s requirements. Why? Because the majority of those who return to life will be among “the unrighteous.” (Read Acts 24:15.) They will have to make many changes in order to benefit from Christ’s ransom. Just think of the work involved in teaching the truth about God to millions of people who have no knowledge of Jehovah. Will each person receive individual instruction, similar to the way we conduct Bible studies today? Will these new ones be assigned to congregations and be trained to teach those who are resurrected after them? We will have to wait and see. We do know, however, that by the end of Christ’s Thousand Year Reign, “the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah.” (Isa. 11:9) What a busy but enjoyable thousand years that will be!

7. Why will God’s people have fellow feeling when teaching resurrected ones?

7 During the Thousand Year Rule of Christ, all of Jehovah’s earthly children will have to make changes to please him. So all of them will have true fellow feeling as they help the resurrected ones to combat sinful tendencies and to live by Jehovah’s standards. (1 Pet. 3:8) No doubt those who come back to life will be drawn to Jehovah’s humble people, who will also be “working out [their] own salvation.”​—Phil. 2:12.

8. Why is it reasonable to assume that those greeting resurrected individuals will be able to recognize their loved ones?

8 For a number of reasons, we can assume that those greeting resurrected individuals will be able to recognize their loved ones. For instance, based on resurrections that have already occurred, it seems that Jehovah will re-create people so that they look, speak, and think in the same way as they did shortly before they died. Remember that Jesus likened death to sleep and the resurrection to being awakened from sleep. (Matt. 9:18, 24; John 11:11-13) When people awaken from sleep, they look and sound the same as when they went to sleep, and they retain their memory. Consider the example of Lazarus. He had been dead for four days, so his body had begun to decay. Yet, when Jesus resurrected him, his sisters immediately recognized him, and Lazarus obviously remembered them.​—John 11:38-44; 12:1, 2.

9. Why will resurrected ones not come back with a perfect mind and body?

9 Jehovah promises that no one living under Christ’s rule will say: “I am sick.” (Isa. 33:24; Rom. 6:7) Thus, those who are raised from the dead will be re-created with healthy bodies. However, they will not immediately be perfect. If they were, they might seem unfamiliar to their loved ones. It seems that all mankind will gradually grow to perfection during the Thousand Year Reign of Christ. It is only at the end of the thousand years that Jesus will hand the Kingdom back to his Father. Then the Kingdom will have accomplished its work completely, including the raising of mankind to a perfect state.​—1 Cor. 15:24-28; Rev. 20:1-3.

10. How will the resurrection affect you?

10 Imagine what it will be like to greet your loved ones again. Will the joy you feel make you laugh or cry? Will you fill the air with songs of praise to Jehovah? One thing is certain, you will feel intense love for your caring Father and his unselfish Son because of the wonderful gift of the resurrection.

11. According to Jesus’ words recorded at John 5:28, 29, what will those who live by God’s righteous standards experience?

11 Imagine the joy that those who are resurrected will feel as they strip off their old personality and live according to God’s righteous standards. Those who make these changes will experience a resurrection of life. On the other hand, those who rebel against God will not be allowed to disrupt the peace of Paradise.​—Isa. 65:20; read John 5:28, 29.

12. In what way will all those on earth be blessed by Jehovah?

12 Under Kingdom rule, all of God’s people will experience the truthfulness of what Proverbs 10:22 says: “It is the blessing of Jehovah that makes one rich, and He adds no pain with it.” With Jehovah’s spirit at work on them, God’s people will become spiritually rich, that is, they will become more and more like Christ and will grow toward perfection. (John 13:15-17; Eph. 4:23, 24) Each day they will become stronger, better people. What a joy life will be then! (Job 33:25) How, though, can meditating on the resurrection help you now?

13. In line with Psalm 139:1-4, how will the resurrection show just how much Jehovah knows about us?

13 As we discussed earlier, when Jehovah resurrects people, he will restore their memories and the personality traits that made them who they were. Just think of what that implies. Jehovah loves you so much that he is keeping track of all that you think, feel, say, and do. So if he had to resurrect you, he would easily be able to restore your memories, attitude, and personality traits. King David was aware of just how interested Jehovah is in each one of us. (Read Psalm 139:1-4.) In what way can understanding how well Jehovah knows us affect us now?

14. In what way should we be affected when meditating on how well Jehovah knows us?

14 When we meditate on how well Jehovah knows us, we should not feel worried. Why not? Remember that Jehovah deeply cares for us. He cherishes the traits that make each one of us unique. He carefully notes the experiences in our life that make us who we are. What a comforting thought! Never should we feel that we are alone. Each minute of every day, Jehovah is right beside us, looking for opportunities to help us.​—2 Chron. 16:9.

15. How does the resurrection give evidence of Jehovah’s wisdom?

15 The threat of death is a powerful weapon. Those under Satan’s control use it to force people to betray their friends or to give up their convictions. But that threat is powerless against us. We know that if our enemies kill us, Jehovah will restore us to life. (Rev. 2:10) We are convinced that nothing they do can sever our attachment to Jehovah. (Rom. 8:35-39) What remarkable wisdom Jehovah has shown by giving us the resurrection hope! By means of it, he disarms Satan of one of his most effective weapons and at the same time arms us with unbreakable courage.

16. What questions do you need to ask yourself, and how can the answers help you to know how much you trust in Jehovah?

16 If enemies of Jehovah threaten you with death, will you be willing to entrust him with your life? How can you know? One way is to ask yourself, ‘Do the small decisions I make each day give evidence that I trust in Jehovah?’ (Luke 16:10) Another question could be, ‘Does my lifestyle prove that I trust in Jehovah’s promise to care for my material needs if I seek his Kingdom first?’ (Matt. 6:31-33) If the answer to those questions is yes, then you prove that you trust in Jehovah, and you will be prepared for any trial that comes your way.​—Prov. 3:5, 6.

17. (a) How does the resurrection show that Jehovah is patient? (b) How can we show our appreciation for Jehovah’s patience?

17 Jehovah has a fixed day and hour when he will bring an end to this old system. (Matt. 24:36) He will not become impatient and act before that time. He has a longing to resurrect the dead, but he is patient. (Job 14:14, 15) He is waiting until the right time arrives to raise them to life. (John 5:28) We have good reasons to appreciate Jehovah’s patience. Just think: Because Jehovah is patient, many people, including us, have had time “to attain to repentance.” (2 Pet. 3:9) Jehovah wants as many people as possible to have the opportunity to gain everlasting life. So let us show that we appreciate his patience. How? By earnestly looking for those who are “rightly disposed for everlasting life” and helping them to love Jehovah and serve him. (Acts 13:48) Then they will benefit from Jehovah’s patience, just as we have.

18. Why should we be patient with others?

18 Jehovah will patiently wait until the end of the thousand years before he expects us to be perfect. Until that time, Jehovah is willing to overlook our sins. Surely, then, we have reason to look for the good in others and to be patient with them. Consider the example of one sister whose husband began suffering from severe anxiety attacks and stopped attending meetings. “This was very painful for me,” she says. “Our plans for our future as a family were turned upside down.” Yet through it all, this loving wife was patient with her husband. She relied on Jehovah and never gave up. Like Jehovah, she looked past the problem and focused on the good things about her husband. She says, “My husband has wonderful qualities, and he is working to recover, little by little.” How important it is that we are patient with those in our family or congregation who are trying to overcome difficult challenges!

19. What should we be determined to do?

19 Jesus and the angels were joyful when the earth was first created. But imagine how happy they will be to see the earth full of perfect people, who love and serve Jehovah. Imagine the joy that those who were brought from the earth to heaven to rule with Christ will feel as they see mankind benefiting from their work. (Rev. 4:4, 9-11; 5:9, 10) And imagine living when tears of joy replace tears of pain, when sickness, sorrow, and death are gone forever. (Rev. 21:4) Until then, be determined to imitate your loving, wise, and patient Father. If you do, you will maintain your joy, no matter what trials you face. (Jas. 1:2-4) How thankful we can be for Jehovah’s promise that “there is going to be a resurrection”!​—Acts 24:15.

1. What did David say about Jehovah’s humility?

CAN we really say that Jehovah is humble? Yes, we can. David once said: “You give me your shield of salvation, and your humility makes me great.” (2 Sam. 22:36; Ps. 18:35) Perhaps David was thinking of the day when the prophet Samuel came to the house of David’s father to anoint the future king of Israel. David was the youngest of eight boys; yet, he was the one whom Jehovah chose to replace King Saul.​—1 Sam. 16:1, 10-13.

2. What will we consider in this article?

2 David would certainly agree with the sentiments expressed by a psalmist who said of Jehovah: “He stoops down to look on heaven and earth, raising the lowly from the dust. He lifts up the poor . . . to make him sit with nobles.” (Ps. 113:6-8) In this article, we will first consider some important lessons about humility by reviewing instances when Jehovah showed this quality. Then we will examine what we can learn from King Saul, the prophet Daniel, and Jesus about the quality of modesty.

3. How does Jehovah deal with us, and what does this prove?

3 Jehovah proves that he is humble by how he deals with imperfect human worshippers. Not only does he accept our worship but he also views us as his friends. (Ps. 25:14) In order to make friendship with him possible, Jehovah took the initiative by providing his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. What mercy​—what compassion—​he has shown us!

4. What has Jehovah given us, and why?

4 Consider another expression of Jehovah’s humility. As the Creator, Jehovah could have made us without the ability to choose the course of our lives. But he did not do that. He made us in his image and gave us free will. He wants us lowly humans to serve him from our heart because we love him and we recognize the benefits of obeying him. (Deut. 10:12; Isa. 48:17, 18) How grateful we should be for this expression of Jehovah’s humility!

5. How does Jehovah teach us to be humble? (See cover picture.)

5 Jehovah teaches us to be humble by the way he deals with us. Jehovah is the wisest Person in the universe. Even so, he is willing to accept suggestions from others. For example, Jehovah allowed his Son to assist him in creating all things. (Prov. 8:27-30; Col. 1:15, 16) And even though Jehovah is almighty, he delegates authority to others. For instance, he appointed Jesus to be King of the Kingdom, and He will give a measure of authority to the 144,000 humans who become corulers with Jesus. (Luke 12:32) Of course, Jehovah trained Jesus to be King and High Priest. (Heb. 5:8, 9) He also trains Jesus’ corulers, but he does not give them this assignment and then step in to manage every detail of the work. Instead, he trusts that they will do his will.​—Rev. 5:10.

6-7. What can we learn from our heavenly Father about delegating authority to others?

6 If our heavenly Father​—who does not need help from anyone—​delegates authority to others, how much more so should we do the same! For instance, are you a family head or an elder in the congregation? Follow Jehovah’s example by delegating tasks to others and then resisting the urge to micromanage them. When you imitate Jehovah, not only will you get the work done but you will also train others and boost their confidence. (Isa. 41:10) What else can those with a measure of authority learn from Jehovah?

7 The Bible indicates that Jehovah is interested in the opinions of his angelic sons. (1 Ki. 22:19-22) Parents, how can you imitate Jehovah’s example? When appropriate, ask your children for their opinions on how a task should be done. And when fitting, follow their suggestions.

8. How did Jehovah deal patiently with Abraham and Sarah?

8 Jehovah’s humility is also expressed by his patience. For example, Jehovah is patient when those who serve him question his decisions respectfully. He listened as Abraham stated his concerns about the decision to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. (Gen. 18:22-33) And remember how Jehovah dealt with Abraham’s wife, Sarah. He did not become offended or angry when she laughed at his promise that she would become pregnant in her old age. (Gen. 18:10-14) Instead, he treated Sarah with dignity.

9. What can parents and elders learn from Jehovah’s example?

9 Parents and elders, what can you learn from Jehovah’s example? Consider how you respond when those under your authority question your decisions. Is your initial reaction to correct them? Or do you try to understand their point of view? Families and congregations surely benefit when those in authority imitate Jehovah. So far, we have discussed what we can learn about humility from Jehovah’s example. Now let us see what we can learn about modesty from examples recorded in God’s Word.

10. How does Jehovah use the example of others to teach us?

10 As our “Grand Instructor,” Jehovah provides examples in his Word in order to teach us. (Isa. 30:20, 21) We learn as we meditate on Bible accounts about those who showed godly qualities, including modesty. We also learn as we examine what happened to those who failed to show such fine qualities.​—Ps. 37:37; 1 Cor. 10:11.

11. What can we learn from Saul’s bad example?

11 Reflect on what happened to King Saul. He started out as a modest young man. He was aware of his limitations and even hesitated to take on more responsibility. (1 Sam. 9:21; 10:20-22) Yet, in time Saul became presumptuous. He revealed this bad trait soon after he became king. On one occasion, he lost patience while waiting for the prophet Samuel. Instead of modestly trusting in Jehovah to act in behalf of the people, Saul offered up a burnt sacrifice even though he was not authorized to do so. As a result, Saul lost Jehovah’s favor and eventually the kingship. (1 Sam. 13:8-14) We are wise if we learn from this warning example and avoid acting presumptuously.

12. How did Daniel show modesty?

12 In contrast with Saul’s bad example, consider the good example of the prophet Daniel. Throughout his life, Daniel remained a humble and modest servant of God who always looked to Jehovah for guidance. For instance, when he was used by Jehovah to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel did not take credit for the interpretation. Rather, he modestly gave all the glory and credit to Jehovah. (Dan. 2:26-28) What is the lesson for us? If brothers enjoy listening to our talks or if we have a measure of success in the ministry, we want to remember to give all the glory to Jehovah. We should modestly acknowledge that we could not do these things without Jehovah’s help. (Phil. 4:13) When we have this attitude, we are also imitating Jesus’ fine example. How so?

13. What do we learn about modesty from Jesus’ words found at John 5:19, 30?

13 Although he was the perfect Son of God, Jesus depended on Jehovah. (Read John 5:19, 30.) He never tried to grab authority from his heavenly Father. Philippians 2:6 tells us that Jesus “gave no consideration to a seizure, namely, that he should be equal to God.” As a submissive Son, Jesus understood his limitations and respected his Father’s authority.

14. When asked to do something that was beyond his authority, how did Jesus respond?

14 Consider how Jesus responded when the disciples James and John along with their mother approached him and asked for a privilege that was beyond Jesus’ authority to give. Without hesitating, Jesus stated that only his heavenly Father could decide who would sit at Jesus’ right hand and at his left in the Kingdom. (Matt. 20:20-23) Jesus showed that he respected his limitations. He was modest. He never went beyond what Jehovah commanded him to do. (John 12:49) How can we imitate Jesus’ fine example?

15-16. How can we apply the Bible’s counsel found at 1 Corinthians 4:6?

15 We imitate Jesus’ example of modesty by applying the Bible’s counsel found at 1 Corinthians 4:6. There we are told: “Do not go beyond the things that are written.” So when asked for advice, we never want to promote our own opinion or simply say the first thing that comes to our mind. Rather, we should direct attention to the counsel found in the Bible and in our Bible-based publications. In this way, we acknowledge our limitations. With modesty, we give credit to the “righteous decrees” of the Almighty.​—Rev. 15:3, 4.

16 Along with honoring Jehovah, we have other good reasons for displaying modesty. We will now look at how humility and modesty can bring us joy and help us get along with others.

17. Why are humble and modest people joyful?

17 When we are humble and modest, we are more likely to be joyful. Why so? When we are aware of our limitations, we will be grateful and happy for any help that we receive from others. For example, think of the occasion when Jesus healed ten lepers. Only one of them returned to thank Jesus for curing him of his dreadful disease​—something the man could never have done on his own. This humble and modest man was thankful for the help he received, and he glorified God for it.​—Luke 17:11-19.

18. How do humility and modesty help us to get along with others? (Romans 12:10)

18 Humble, modest people tend to get along well with others and are more likely to have close friends. Why? They willingly acknowledge that other people have fine qualities and show confidence in them. Humble and modest ones are happy when others succeed in whatever assignment they receive and are quick to commend them and honor them.​—Read Romans 12:10.

19. What are some reasons why we should avoid pride?

19 In contrast, proud people find it difficult to commend others, preferring that they themselves receive praise. They are more likely to compare themselves with others and to promote a spirit of competition. Rather than training others and giving them authority, they are likely to say, “If you want something done right”​—the way that pleases them—​“you have to do it yourself.” A proud person is often ambitious and jealous. (Gal. 5:26) Such people seldom have lasting friendships. If we detect that we have a problem with pride, we should earnestly pray for Jehovah’s help to ‘make our mind over’ so that this bad trait does not become deeply rooted within us.​—Rom. 12:2.

20. Why should we be humble and modest?

20 How thankful we are for Jehovah’s example! We see his humility in how he deals with his servants, and we want to imitate him. In addition, we want to imitate the fine examples found in the Bible of modest people who had the privilege of walking with God. May we always give Jehovah the honor and the glory that he deserves. (Rev. 4:11) Then we too will qualify to walk with our heavenly Father, who loves humble and modest people.

1. What sacrifices have many made, and why did they make them?

Many have decided to remain single. Some marriages have chosen not to have children for now. And many families lead a simple life, and have made these sacrifices because they trust that the Lord will give them everything they really need, and he will not let them down.​—Rom. 4:11.

2. (a) According to Hebrews 11:8-10, 16, why was Abraham willing to leave Ur? (b) What will we discuss in this article?

2 (a)  Because I expected \”the city that has true foundations.\”

(b) What is that “city”? What challenges did Abraham face while he waited for that city to be built? And how can we be like Abraham and those in our day who have followed his example? In this article we will see the answers. (Read Hebrews 11:8-10, 16.) 

3. What is the city that Abraham awaited?

3 The city Abraham expected is the Kingdom of God, which is made up of Jesus Christ and the 144,000 anointed Christians. (Heb. 12:22; Rev. 5:8-10; 14:1) ​—Matt. 6:10.

4. According to Genesis 17:1, 2, 6, how much did Abraham know about the city, or Kingdom, that God promised?

4 Abraham did not know exactly how the Kingdom of God would be organized. For centuries, that was a \”sacred secret.\” But he did know that some of his descendants would become kings, for the Lord had promised him (read Genesis 17:1, 2, 6). He had so much faith in divine promises that it was as if he could see the Anointed or Messiah that he would be King of the Kingdom of God. (Eph. 1:8-10; Col. 1:26, 27; Read Genesis 17:1, 2, 6. John 8:56) 

5. How do we know that Abraham was waiting for the city designed by God?

5 First, he became no citizen of any terrestrial kingdom. He decided not to settle anywhere or support a human king. Besides, he didn\’t try to create his own kingdom. Rather, he always obeyed the Lord and waited for him to keep his promise.

Illustration

In the illustration we see how Abraham showed faith in the Lord\’s promises by fully fulfilling the promptings the Lord had given him even though it was not the most comfortable thing for him or his family. Abraham came from a thriving city which was close to the current confluence of the Uphrates and Tigris rivers. Changing the comforts he had for what we see in the illustration was certainly not easy but he was willing to carry those sacrifices because his faith allowed him to see beyond what was before his eyes, and he did so how we see with a very good attitude, not how obligated but willingly.

6. What kind of city was Ur?

6 The City of Ur was relatively safe, modern, and comfortable. It had a huge wall and a moat that protected it on three sides.

7. Why did Abraham have to trust that Jehovah would protect him and his family?

7 Because he and his wife, Sarah, left the safety and comfort of their home in Ur to live in tents out in the open in Canaan, no longer having the protection of a wall and deep moats. Now they were defenseless against the attack of their enemies, that is why Abraham and his wife had to trust that Jehovah would take care of them.

8. At one time, what did Abraham have to deal with?

8 He had to face a terrible famine that struck the land where Jehovah had sent him. The situation was so difficult that he decided to take his family to Egypt for a time. But, when he was in Egypt, the ruler of the country, Pharaoh, took Sarah from him.​—Gen. 12:10-19.

9. What family difficulties did Abraham have to cope with?

9 Some of the situations that Abraham faced is that his beloved wife, Sarah, was sterile. They lived with that bitter grief for many years. In time, she gave Abraham his servant Hagar as his wife. Thus Sarah and Abraham could have children through Hagar. But, when she became pregnant with Ismael, she began to despise Sara, which triggered a very difficult family situation, as Sara made Hagar flee her home.—Gen. 16:1-6.

10. What incidents involving Ishmael and Isaac tested Abraham’s trust in Jehovah?

10 Since Ishmael did not treat Isaac well, Abraham had to fire Ishmael and Hagar. Years later, Jehovah asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, for both times Abraham had to trust that Jehovah would fulfill what he had promised about his sons. (Gen. 21:9-14; Gen. 22:1, 2; Heb. 11:17-19) 

11. Why did Abraham have to wait patiently on Jehovah?

11 It is probable that when he and his family left Ur he was in his 70s. And for about a hundred years he lived in tents and traveled through the land of Canaan. He died at 175 years of age. However, he did not see how Jehovah fulfilled his promise to give his descendants the land through which he traveled. Nor did he see the city he hoped for, the Kingdom of God, established. Still, the Bible says that he died \”satisfied after a long life.\” Although he suffered many problems, he maintained strong faith and was willing to wait for Jehovah to act. (Gen. 11:31–12:4; Gen. 25:7; Gen. 25:8) —Gen. 15:1; Isa. 41:8; Jas. 2:22, 23. (See paragraph 12)*

12. What are we waiting for, and what will we consider?

12 (a)  We expect the city that has real foundations. Of course, we do not wait for it to be built, because the Kingdom of God was established in 1914 and it already has absolute control in heaven (Rev. 12: 7-10). But we are waiting for him to start ruling the entire Earth.

(b)  We are going to analyze how have modern-day servants of Jehovah been able to follow the example of Abraham? Biographies of many brothers who have shown faith and patience like Abraham and his wife have appeared in The Watchtower. We will review some of those stories and see what we can learn from these biblical characters.

ILLUSTRATION

We can observe how a couple of older brothers who have remained faithful to Jehovah throughout their lives despite the fact that many years have passed and have not yet seen Jehovah\’s promises fulfilled, continue to wait patiently for their fulfillment and do so while remaining busy with spiritual matters and nurturing their faith by studying the Bible and attending meetings. (Rev. 12:7-10) But we are waiting for it to take complete control of the earth. While we wait for that to happen, there are many situations that we must deal with that are similar to those that Abraham and Sarah faced. Have Jehovah’s modern-day servants been able to imitate Abraham’s example? The life stories published in The Watchtower show that, like Abraham and Sarah, many today have had faith and patience. Let us consider just a few of those stories and see what we can learn.

13. What do you learn from the experience of Brother Walden?

13 Be willing to make sacrifices. What we learn is that if we want to put the city of God, that is, the Kingdom, first in our lives, we must be like Abraham and be willing to sacrifice ourselves to please God. (Matt. 6:33; Mark 10:28-30) Note the example of a brother named Bill Walden.* In 1942, Bill was about to graduate from a U.S. university with a degree in architectural engineering when he started studying with Jehovah’s Witnesses. Bill’s professor had arranged for Bill to have a job after graduation, but Bill declined. He explained that he had decided to give up the promise of a secular career in order to serve God more fully. Shortly afterward, Bill was drafted for military service. He respectfully refused and as a result was fined $10,000 and sentenced to five years in prison. He was released after three years. Later, he was invited to attend Gilead School and served as a missionary in Africa. Then Bill married Eva, and they served together in Africa, which called for sacrifices. Eventually they returned to the United States to care for Bill’s mother. Summarizing his life story, Bill says: “Tears come to my eyes when I think of the awesome privilege of having been used by Jehovah for more than 70 years in his service. I often thank him for guiding me toward making his service my career.” Are you able to make the full-time ministry your career?

14-15. What do you learn from the experience of Brother and Sister Apostolidis?

14 Do not expect your life to be trouble-free. The Servants of Jehovah do not expect a life without problems, that is why the example of Abraham and the Brothers teaches us that even those who dedicate their lives to Jehovah will have difficulties.

Furthermore, we have no doubt that Jehovah deeply loves those who go out of their way to serve him despite problems. (Jas. 1:2; 1 Pet. 5:9) Consider how this proved true in the experience of Aristotelis Apostolidis.* He got baptized in 1946 in Greece, and in 1952 he got engaged to a sister named Eleni, who had the same goals as he did. However, Eleni fell ill and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. The tumor was removed, but just a few years after the couple got married, the tumor came back. The doctors operated again, but Eleni was left partially paralyzed, and her speech was impaired. She remained a zealous minister despite her illness and despite the government persecution at the time.

15 For 30 years, Aristotelis cared for his wife. During this time he served as an elder, worked on assembly committees, and helped to build an Assembly Hall. Then, in 1987, Eleni was hurt in an accident while she was preaching. She was in a coma for three years, and then she died. Aristotelis sums up his experience by saying: “Over the years, trying circumstances, difficult challenges, and unforeseen occurrences have called for an inordinate amount of tenacity and perseverance. Yet, Jehovah has always given me the needed strength to overcome these problems.” (Ps. 94:18, 19) How Jehovah loves those who do all they can for him despite dealing with trials!

16. What good advice did Brother Knorr give his wife?

16 Focus on the future. She says that a few words that Brother Knorr said a few weeks before his death were very helpful. He told her: \”After we die, our hope is assured, and we will never have to suffer pain again.\” Then, he gave her this advice: \”Look ahead, to the future, because that\’s where your reward is.\” She added: “Stay busy, try to use your life doing something for others. That will fill you up ”.—Rom. 12:12.

17. (a) Why do we have good reason to focus on the future? (b) How will following the example recorded at Micah 7:7 help us to enjoy future blessings?

17 (a)  Because world events make it clear that we are in the final part of the last days of this system. Soon, we will no longer have to wait for the city that has true foundations to start ruling the entire Earth.

(b)  Keeping faith despite problems and patiently waiting for Jehovah to act will help us to see more clearly the future promises that Jehovah offers us, for example, seeing our loved ones live again and also seeing how Jehovah will reward Abraham for his faith and patience by bringing him and his family back to life here on earth.—Read Micah 7:7.

1. As indicated at 3 John 3, 4, what makes us happy?

This text mentions to us that the Apostle John was happy when he heard that Christians to whom he had helped them know the truth continued to serve the Lord, just as we feel happy when our children are physical or spiritual dedicate their lives to the Lord and continue to serve.

See how the words of 3 John 4 are fulfilled where it says, \”Nothing gives me more joy than hearing that my children continue to walk in the truth.\” Whether this is accomplished in physical or spiritual children, we too feel happy when they dedicate their lives to the Lord and continue to serve Him.—Read 3 John 3, 4.

2. What was the purpose of the letters that John wrote?

2 The aim of the letters was to encourage loyal Christians to maintain faith in Jesus and to continue to walk in the truth.

The holy spirit of the Lord prompted him to write these three letters with the aim of encouraging loyal Christians to maintain faith in Jesus and to continue to walk in truth.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The insightful book mentions about John\’s three letters that John probably wrote them when he was old because he used expressions such as \”little children\” or \”little children.\” Also, although the name of the Apostle John is not mentioned in any of these three letters, it can be trusted that he wrote them because there are many similarities between the gospel that bears his name and these.

These three letters highlight tips such as maintaining Christian unity, loving God by keeping His commandments, avoiding darkness by walking in the light, showing love for brothers and sisters, and continually walking in truth. Despite his advanced age, the Apostle John was a great source of encouragement and strength for the congregations of Asia Minor and for all Christians who read his letters, it will certainly be of great benefit to study them (it-2 pp. 144).

3. What questions will we answer?

3 We will answer three questions; What does it mean to walk in truth, what obstacles do we face? and how to help each other stay on the truth?

The Apostle John gave on these issues is very valuable because he faced a time when there was a dangerous influence on the part of the false teachers mentioned in 1 John 2:18, 19.

NOTE OF THE BOX: \”THE ANTICHRIST IS DISCOVERED\”

As mentioned in the box, the Apostle John had plenty of reasons to be concerned as he was the last of the apostles to be mentioned alive and would face the challenge of helping congregations to defeat false teachers who tried to deceive God\’s congregation.

It may be that because of Greek philosophy and its popularity in those days many men ensured that God had granted them a mystical power. Because of these deceptions John called them antichrists, or people who teach things against Christ.

In the article \”The antichrist is discovered\”, which was referenced in the box; \”John\’s letters in context\” is explained to us about the term antichrist. We can emphasize that this term is only found in two of the Apostle John\’s three letters, and this article tells us that this term refers not only to one person but to a collective or group of people that includes religious leaders who teach falsehoods, apostates, people who mixed human philosophy with Christianity, among others.* (1 John 2:18, 19, 26) 

4. According to 1 John 2:3-6 and 2 John 4, 6, what is involved in walking in the truth?

4 These two texts emphasize that to walk in the truth, we must first know this set of teaching found in the Bible, and second we must obey the commandments of the Lord, in this matter Jesus is the perfect example so we must follow in his footsteps.

First we must know the truth, which is in the Word of God, the Bible, and besides, we must obey the commandments of the Lord. And an important way to achieve this is by following in The Footsteps of Jesus as faithfully as possible since he set the perfect example in this matter.

Verses from 1 John 2:3 and 2 John 6 should be highlighted. These two texts use 3 times the terms \”keep walking\” or \”continue obeying\”. Both expressions wish to convey the fact that walking in truth is not a unique and lasting process, that once you start to walk in the truth so you will continue forever, rather it is an ongoing process that requires our special attention day by day to never stop doing so.—John 8:29 (Read 1 John 2:3-6; 2 John 4, 6; 1 Pet. 2:21).

5. Of what must we be convinced?

5 We must be convinced of the truth about Jehovah and Jesus that is why we must study the bible that teaches us that Jehovah is the God of truth and everything he tells us in his word is true and that Jesus is the promised Messiah and that he is the King of the Kingdom of God, when we come to learn and have exact knowledge about this we will be completely convinced that we have the truth and no one can deceive us.

We must be convinced of three things that include Jehovah, Jesus Christ, and the Bible. In the case of Jehovah we must fully trust that he is the God of truth and that, therefore, everything that the Bible tells us in his Word is true. And in the case of Jesus Christ we must fully and sincerely recognize him as the promised Messiah.

Surely most of us here present, if not we all believe in these three things that have just been mentioned, that Jehovah is the True God, that what the Bible says is true and that Jesus Christ is the Messiah. However, what we must meditate on is the level of our conviction regarding these three things, since in the world in which we live there are many impostors and liars who daily try to deceive us or weaken that conviction.

This article will be very useful as it will reinforce the fact that the only way to avoid being deceived is by studying the Word of God since only then will we come to know Jehovah and Jesus completely. (2 John 7-11; 1 John 2:22; John 17:3)

6. What is one obstacle that young Christians face?

6 The obstacle that young people must face is not to be fooled by human ideas, for example the paragraph mentions a young woman who had to face this trap, she says that when she was in school studying about evolution and others Human philosophies made her doubt the truth, but she did not limit herself to accepting what they told her in class, rather she studied what Jehovah says in the bible and the book life also helps. How was it presented here? By evolution or by creation? And in a matter of weeks her doubts had disappeared, she convinced herself that the bible has the truth and that living according to it would give her happiness and peace.

Because our young people are to some extent the most exposed to human ideas, because they spend a lot of time in school with teachers and peers, they face the danger that topics like evolution or human philosophies will seem interesting and make them fall into the trap of beginning to doubt the truth.

And although the paragraph mentions that young people are the most vulnerable, the reality is that we all are. We live in the information age and news that is viral in a school can also be in our homes since it enters through our mobile devices. So we must all be very careful with what we are letting into our home and be selective and blunt as to which sites or pages we will allow to influence our mind and the mind of our family.

7. What pressure must we resist, and why?

7 All Christians must fight against the temptation to lead a double life, we must bear in mind that if we are leading a double life, first we deceive ourselves, because we are not practicing the truth and secondly Jehovah knows he sees everything as Hebrews says 4:13 all things are naked and fully exposed to the eyes of the one to whom we are accountable.

Against the temptation to lead a double life. Whether we are young or old, this temptation is a bond for all of us since our own imperfection leads us to the bad. However, we must strive to do so as it would be very foolish for us to try to deceive Jehovah because of what Hebrews 4:13 mentions \”all things are naked and totally exposed to his eyes.\”—Heb. 4:13; (1 John 1:6)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

According to the October 2018 watchtower on its pages 9 and 10 paragraph 15 leading a double life is when someone pretends to be a good Christian in front of the congregation and their family, but behaves in a way that is not typical of Christians when they are with young people of the world or when using social networks. This attitude has a lot to do with their little or no conviction of the 3 things we talked about in paragraph 5, rather than being convinced of these, they are actually more interested in the apparent brilliance of satan\’s system and want to live it to the fullest.

8. What must we reject?

8 We must reject the world\’s attitude towards sin, Christians must see that this is a serious danger that can influence us, because in general people say they believe in God, but they do not accept what he says about sin, especially in Sex issues, they call it personal preference or alternative lifestyle, so we must be firm and reject that way of thinking and acting in the world.

We must reject the world\’s attitude toward sin. This attitude is like the one mentioned in 1 John 1: 8, people tell themselves that they have no sin but in reality they deceive themselves, and that attitude or way of thinking only makes them be lax about it. time to accept what Jehovah says about sin.

In the box that we analyze regarding the context of the letters of the apostle John, we analyze that people who teach things against Christ are called antichrists. Due to this we can conclude that today we are living in a world full of antichrists, since the acceptance of what the world calls alternative lifestyles, lifestyles that the Bible actually condemns, is becoming more and more popular. So we should not let these antichrists weaken our conviction of what the Bible says about sin. (1 John 1:8) 

9. How do young ones benefit by sticking to their Bible-based convictions?

9 Young people must remember that if they live according to their biblical convictions, they are protecting their dignity, their health, their emotional well-being and their friendship with Jehovah, all of this is more valuable than what Satan offers with his crooked world, so young people how many The more temptations they resist, the easier it will be for them to do what is right, and when they do they show that they are defeating the devil.

Although the pressures can be strong or even a little humiliating, by living according to our conviction of biblical truths we protect our dignity, our physical health, our emotional well-being, our value as persons and especially our friendship with Jehovah. To achieve this we must always keep in mind that the opinion that matters most to us is that of our God Jehovah.

The expression found in the paragraph where it is said that the more temptations we resist, the easier it will be for us to do the right thing made me think of a muscle. The more we exercise this, the more we use it, the stronger and more skilled it becomes, but if we neglect it, but if we do not exercise it, this muscle can even atrophy or be damaged. In the same way, we should endeavor to use our conviction of biblical truths enough to overcome the trials we face.

ILLUSTRATION

In this illustration we can clearly see what our young people may face in schools. We can see how our sister sees a poster on a wall in her school which refers to support for people with homosexual inclinations. Perhaps observing this and observing the support of so many people for these people makes you think that there is wrong with it. However, she does not allow doubts to take root in her mind or in her heart and she puts to work and listens to Jehovah\’s reasons found in her Word the Bible. After testing and verifying for herself what Jehovah says regarding homosexual behavior, our little sister firmly defends her convictions before a group of colleagues who pressure her to also support this movement. We can all follow this example by strengthening our faith in what Jehovah says about what is right and what is wrong, so that we can stand up for what we believe.—1 John 2:14.

10. How does 1 John 1:9 help us to serve Jehovah with a clean conscience?

10 As we have inherited imperfection, we all sin either with our words or with our works, for us it is a real struggle to do good, that is why as this text says we have to humbly ask Jehovah to forgive us based on our faith in the sacrifice of His son, also if we have committed a serious sin and we repent and seek the help of the elders, Jehovah will forgive us and in this way we can serve him with a clear conscience.

The text of 1 John 3:19, 2 contains words that comfort and comfort those who may have made serious mistakes. He mentions that even if it is \”our own heart that God condemns us is bigger than our heart and can make our heart feel safe.\” There may be those who feel that their past mistakes overwhelm them, but how we see these verses encourage us not to have those feelings rather we must trust that if Jehovah has helped us through the elders our sins have been forgotten and we can serve him God with a clear conscience.

The text of 1 John 3:19, 2 contains words that comfort and comfort those who may have made serious mistakes. He mentions that even if it is \”our own heart that God condemns us is bigger than our heart and can make our heart feel safe.\” There may be those who feel that their past mistakes overwhelm them, but how we see these verses encourage us not to have those feelings rather we must trust that if Jehovah has helped us through the elders our sins have been forgotten and we can serve him God with a clear conscience.

This text helps us because it gives us the confidence that if we confess our sins to Jehovah, because he is faithful and just, he will forgive them and cleanse us from all injustice. So we should not fear if we sin since we serve a forgiving God, although we must bear in mind that if we have seriously sinned we will have to ask for help from those whom Jehovah has appointed, namely the elders of our congregation. (Read 1 John 1:9; Jas. 5:14-16; 1 John 2:1, 2, 12; 3:19, 20).

11. How can we protect our mind from teachings that could harm our faith?

11 True Christians must be able to distinguish between a truth and a lie, if we do not do so we run the risk that Satan through apostates will sow doubts in our minds, and weaken our trust in Jehovah and the love we have for them. Brothers, in the paragraph there is an asterisk that invites us to see the topic, Do we have all the data? In this article we are reminded that biblical principles protect us and help us to use safe data and consult reliable sources to draw conclusions good decisions and make good decisions.

By learning to distinguish between a truth and a lie. These lies abound on the Internet and social networks so we must be careful when using these as apostates use them to try to weaken our trust in Jehovah and the love we have for our brothers.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The article “Do we have all the data?” From The Watchtower of August 2018 explained that currently we are bombarded with a lot of information through the Internet, television and other media, but it is not always reliable information since there is malicious individuals who distribute misleading information and misrepresent the facts. Therefore, we must be careful and evaluate well what we read and hear.

In the article “Do we have all the data?”, Which is cited in the note to this paragraph, he also advised us not to waste time browsing unreliable news sites on the Internet or reading emails or text messages that contain rumors. Above all, it is important that we avoid websites that promote apostates. The sources that help us to have all the data regarding us as Jehovah\’s Witnesses can be found on the j w .org site under the sections “Breaking News”, “Press” and “JW Broadcasting”.* —1 John 4:1, 6; Rev. 12:9.

12. Why should we deepen our appreciation for the truths we have learned?

12 We know that faith is an act of trust that is based on accurate knowledge and experience, therefore we must regularly study the word of God which is the truth, also strengthen our trust in Jesus and in the role that they fulfill the purpose of God and we must trust in the only channel that Jehovah uses to direct his organization the faithful and prudent slave, in this way our faith will be solid and will serve as a shield against Satan.

Because only by doing this can we resist satan\’s attacks. If we strengthen our faith through regular study of the Bible, it will become like a tree with deep roots, and it will not be influenced by anything that satan or his supporters do.

The paragraph mentions that if we strengthen our faith with what we learn from the Bible it will become like a tree with deep roots. I gave myself the task of investigating which is the tree with the deepest roots and I found that in South Africa a tree called Boscia albitrunca was found which had roots 68 meters deep, due to the prolonged droughts these trees in the area need dig deep to find water and nutrients. We live in a dry world, spiritually speaking, that is why we also need to deepen our study of the Bible to constantly nurture our faith in Jehovah.​—2 John 8, 9.

13. What should we expect, and why?

13 The bible identifies satan as the ruler of this world, that is why the world hates us, as he knows that his end is near, he is furious and uses different means to attack us, among them he uses force to stop preaching or destroy our faith In some countries our work has even been banned, but our brothers continue to endure showing fidelity and loyalty to Jehovah.

We know that the world hates us because it is under the control of our enemy satan the devil. And if we add to that that he is furious because he has little time left, we should not be surprised by the large number of subtle means by which he attacks us.

Knowing this, we must not let the hatred of nations intimidate us. For example, the fact that in some nations our work is forbidden, rather than discouraging us, it must be a cause of joy such and how the disciples of Jesus rejoiced when the rulers of their time persecuted them. In the same way, we must continue to endure and pray for our brothers who suffer this type of hatred from the world and show that no matter what they do, we will remain faithful. (1 John 3:13; 1 John 5:19; Rev. 12:12) 

14. What is one way we can help our brothers and sisters to remain in the truth?

14 One way is by being compassionate with them, for example. Do we respond quickly to the need for material and spiritual help from our brothers, who have lost a loved one? or who suffer from natural disasters? or lack of employment or illnesses and they need our help? We must bear in mind that true love and compassion is demonstrated above all by actions, not just by words.

According to 1 John 3:10, 11 the children of God and those of the devil recognize each other “by practicing justice and by loving their brother”, so one way to help each other to continue with integrity in the truth is to be compassionate towards each other . In this way we will also show that we are servants of our God Jehovah.

And the best way to show love and compassion to our brothers is with actions and not just with words. For example, if we know a brother who has lost a loved one and needs comfort or some kind of help, or if we know that due to a natural disaster the brothers need help to rebuild their Kingdom Halls or their homes, we should offer ourselves willingly. and help them either with our financial resources or with our strength. (1 John 3:10, 11, 16-18) 

15. As stated at 1 John 4:7, 8, what do we need to do?

15 These texts invite us to show love to each other by imitating our loving God Jehovah, and one way to show this love is by forgiving others, this means that when someone hurts us, love will not lead us to forgive them and forget what they did, that is precisely what brother Andy mentioned in this paragraph did, he was offended when a brother made a hurtful comment about the people of his culture, Aldo asked Jehovah for help not to see this brother with bad eyes and then he did something Moreover, he invited him to go out and preach there, he explained how he felt, the brother apologized and by his tone of voice he realized that he was sorry from the heart so they made peace and forgot what happened.

We should show love to one another in imitation of our God Jehovah. And one important way to show love is by forgiving others. For example, if someone hurts us, love will lead us to forgive him and forget what he did (Colossians 3:13).

Brother Aldo\’s example is a great way to handle an offense between siblings. Although Aldo became very offended, he did not make the biggest problem and this offense only remained between him, the brother who offended him, and Jehovah. Aldo also asked Jehovah for help so as not to look down on the brother who offended him. Thanks to his excellent way of bearing this offense they both made peace and forgot what happened (Read 1 John 4:7, 8; Col. 3:13) 

16-17. What should be our determination?

16 We must resolve to walk in the truth and obey Jehovah in everything we do, so we must study the Bible and trust it, strengthen our faith in Jesus, reject human ideas and what apostates say, fight against living a double life and yield to sin and allow it to be guided by Jehovah\’s high moral standards without forgetting that we must forgive our brothers and help them when they need it.

We must be determined to walk in the truth and obey Jehovah in all that we do. We will achieve this by studying his Word and trusting in it, strengthening our faith in Jesus, rejecting human ideas and what apostates say. Fighting the temptation to lead a double life and not giving in to sin. Rather, let us be guided by Jehovah\’s high moral standards. And let us help our brothers to stay strong by forgiving those who offend us and helping those in need.

We must be determined to walk in the truth and obey Jehovah in all that we do. We will achieve this by studying his Word and trusting in it, strengthening our faith in Jesus, rejecting human ideas and what apostates say. Fighting the temptation to lead a double life and not giving in to sin. Rather, let us be guided by Jehovah\’s high moral standards. And let us help our brothers to stay strong by forgiving those who offend us and helping those in need.​—1 John 2:27.

HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?

• What does it mean to walk in the truth?

• It means that we have to know and accept the set of teachings found in the Bible and we must obey all the commandments that Jehovah teaches us, making Jehovah\’s revealed truth the very center or axis of our entire life.

  It means having a full conviction that Jehovah is the God of truth and that, therefore, everything that the Bible tells us in his Word is true. And in the case of Jesus Christ we must fully and sincerely recognize him as the promised Messiah.

• What obstacles do we face?

• Christians must reject human ideas and what apostates say fight the temptation to lead a double life and give in to sin.

  We are faced with human ideas that can cast doubt on our trust in Jehovah, with the world\’s weak and light attitude towards sin which, if we are not careful, can cause us to become infected with that attitude too and, to apostasy, the which seeks to sow doubts in the minds of God\’s faithful servants.

• How can we help our brothers and sisters remain in the truth?

• We learned two ways, first being compassionate, true love and compassion for our brothers and sisters, we will demonstrate it above all with actions, not only with words, and secondly, by forgiving others, we must make peace and forgive from the heart.

  Being compassionate with our brothers through actions especially when our brothers need us most, whether we have to spend physical or economic resources in their favor. And also show our love to them by resolving misunderstandings that arise between us and forgiving them completely.

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• SONG 49 Making Jehovah’s Heart Glad

1. What did the apostle Paul openly acknowledge?

He sincerely acknowledged that at times he felt weak because his body was “wearing out” due to the imperfection and also because he had a struggle between doing what is right and what is wrong. He also mentioned that sometimes Jehovah\’s failure to answer his prayers as he expected and the opinions of others were weakening factors.

Paul acknowledged that at times he felt weak, as he struggled to do what is right despite the negative opinions of others and that Jehovah did not always answer his prayers as he expected, yet he did not allow all these things to make him feel that it was useless.

Like Paul, many of us have reasons why we can feel weak. The asterisk or the note in this paragraph tells us that imperfection, poverty, disease, the little education we have received or our enemies are factors that try to weaken us. So without a doubt this article will be of great help to everyone. (2 Cor. 4:16; 12:7-9; Rom. 7:21-23) ​—2 Cor. 10:10-12, 17, 18.

2. According to 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10, what valuable lesson did Paul learn?

2 He learned that when a person feels that they are weak they can actually become very strong. This is because Jehovah said in 2 Corinthians 12: 9, 10 that his power is fully manifested or demonstrated in weakness, that is, Jehovah gives the weak the strength they need.

The valuable lesson is that a person may feel that he is weak but in reality he is very strong, this is because as it says: Second Corinthians 12: 09,10 Jehovah\’s power is fully demonstrated in weakness, which means that he gives us the forces that we need.

And due to the words that were recorded in this biblical quote from 2 Corinthians 12: 9, 10 we can see that Paul recorded this lesson very well and demonstrated it by not seeing his weaknesses or difficulties as a reason to give up, rather the he saw an opportunity to demonstrate his trust in Jehovah.(Read 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10.) 

3. Why can we take pleasure in insults?

3 The reality is that nobody likes to be insulted, so it is very necessary that Christians see insults in their proper perspective, we understand that insults and opposition are proof that we are true disciples of Christ, as 1 Peter 4 says: 14, if they are insulting us because of the name of Christ, we are happy because the spirit of God rests on us, that indicates to us that the support of the holy spirit is a sign that we have God\’s blessing for which we feel happy.

For what is recorded in 1 Peter 4:14 where it says that \”the spirit of God rests on those who are insulted by the name of Christ.\” This means that receiving insults or opposition shows that we are true disciples of Christ.

And precisely this was something that Christians experienced in the first century. Because they lived in a society that had been greatly influenced by Greek and Jewish cultures, people saw them as ignorant and inferior men with very little education as shown in Acts 4:13.

Apart from the reasons already mentioned why when we receive insults we should react with joy, it is important to think about what the quotes from Proverbs 24:10 and 12:16 teach us. In these it is recommended that when we go through difficult times or irritation the worst thing we can do is get discouraged or react hotly. Rather, we must be wise and control our emotions and our tongue, and thus we will control the situation instead of the situation controlling us. (Prov. 24:10; 2 Cor. 12:10; 1 Pet. 4:14; John 15:18-20; Acts 4:13)

4. How did the early Christians respond to the negative view that opposers had of them?

4 For example, for the Apostles Peter and John it was an honor that they were persecuted for being disciples of Jesus and speaking of his teachings, the Christians of the first century knew that they suffered at the hands of their enemies for defending the pure worship of Jehovah, they were sure that The work they were doing helped and gave hope to the people who listened, so far from being discouraged they gladly continued to preach about the Kingdom of God.

At no point did they feel ashamed as they knew they had no reason to feel this way. Rather, thanks to their sure expectation of things that although they did not contemplate they knew would happen, they trusted that the work they were doing was not of men but of God and that it would provide help and hope to millions of people even after hundreds of years. And we see that their faith and actions were well rewarded since unlike the nation that thought negatively of them which at present is only ashes, they currently rule as kings in heaven.

We can meditate on how the apostles felt when they were brought before the Sanhedrin as mentioned in Acts 5: 27-29, they probably remembered the moments that Jesus Christ went through when he also faced the Sanhedrin. Thinking that they were experiencing persecution just like their Master sure filled them with faith and confidence that they were doing the things that Jehovah and Jesus liked. We see then that the first Christians did not allow the negative opinions of their enemies to stop them, rather they considered it a great honor. (Acts 4:18-21; 5:27-29, 40-42) (Matt. 24:14) ​—Rev. 5:10.

5. According to John 15:19, why are Jehovah’s people looked down on?

5 Jesus in this text explains that the main reason why Jehovah\’s people suffer persecution is that we are not part of the present evil system of things, we do not follow their selfish and arrogant attitudes and we do not get involved in politics, so we do not fit in in the mold of this world we are considered inferior.

They despise us because we are not part of this world, that is, we do not have the same attitude as the people around us. In this world, the proud, arrogant and rebellious are admired but we strive to be humble, gentle and obedient people. In addition to that we maintain a neutral position on political and military matters.

And perhaps in our country we do not see so clearly this hatred on the part of the world towards us, but we can think of nations such as Russia, China, North Korea among others where our brothers can go to jail or be fined for not participating in the political elections or refusing to do military service. Integrity on the part of our brothers should also motivate us as well as integrity on the part of the apostles of Christ.

Perhaps some of us used to be one of those people who despised or made fun of Jehovah\’s Witnesses, but the words of Romans 12: 2 were fulfilled in us and we stopped conforming to this system and rather, we transformed ourselves by renewing our mind. Now perhaps we suffer that same contempt and ridicule, but that does not discourage us because as we have already learned, it is an honor to suffer for the name of Jehovah.​—Read John 15:19; Rom. 12:2.

6. What is Jehovah achieving with his people?

6 Jehovah has used us to achieve different achievements, such as carrying out the largest preaching campaign in history, which allows us to publish and distribute the magazines in different publications around the world, and we use his word the Bible to help millions of people to improve their lives, truly that Jehovah uses us in this way makes each of us strong and valuable.

There are several things in which Jehovah allows us to help you, among these is the largest preaching campaign in history, the production of the most translated and distributed magazines in the world, and the life-saving work where we help through the Bible millions of people to improve their lives. And this is because Jehovah enhances the abilities of people who we seem weak but who with his help make impressive achievements.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Reviewing more information, I was able to find some of the totals that as an organization and with the help of Jehovah we achieved in the 2019 service year, in the yearbook of that year it was published that there are 119,712 (one hundred nineteen thousand seven hundred twelve) congregations in 240 countries. And that there was a maximum of 8,683,117 (eight million six hundred eighty-three thousand one hundred seventeen) publishers which we achieved an average of 9,618,182 (nine million six hundred eighteen thousand one hundred eighty-two) monthly studies and one of the most outstanding things is that they dedicated 2,088,560,437 (two thousand eighty-eight million five hundred sixty thousand four hundred thirty-seven) hours of preaching, No doubt Jehovah\’s power and our disposition make such extraordinary works possible.

7. What is one lesson that we learn from Paul’s example?

7 The apostle Paul had many reasons to feel proud of himself, because he grew up in a prosperous city with a good education and also had a certain influence in the Jewish community, it could be said that according to the world he had some advantage but the Instead of relying on his own strengths or capabilities he had acquired trust in Jehovah and let Jehovah help him in all things. (Acts 5:34; 22:3; Gal. 1:13, 14; Acts 26:4).

8. According to Philippians 3:8 and footnote, how did Paul view the things he gave up, and why did he take “pleasure in weaknesses”?

8 For Paul, according to Philippians 3: 8, all that was a heap of rubbish, that is, having been better among his contemporaries to have studied at the feet of Gamaliel, all that for him was a heap of rubbish for Christ\’s sake, so he highly valued service.

We must imitate the example of the apostle Paul, appreciating everything we have now, for example the good relationship we enjoy with Jehovah is a token of gratitude that we must have, also our record of faithfulness before God has incalculable value, in addition to what it offers this world has no comparison with the immense value of the spiritual blessings that we enjoy and also those that we will enjoy in the future.

Paul saw how Jehovah helped him, he came to understand that despite the abilities and attitudes he had, there is a limit to what we can do with our strength, although he was capable, he could not do everything he wanted but he got the idea that he needed a superior help, Jehovah could give him the strength he needed and that helped him to fulfill his commission well as well.

ILLUSTRATION

In the image we see how Paul is abandoning his life as a Pharisee, it was one of the most important things that for the people of that time had a lot of value, but Paul got rid of all those things because he understood that Jehovah was the one who was going to give him Now his help, he understood that serving Jehovah was the most important thing for him now, many people considered that as Paul despised many valuable things but Paul understood that the most valuable thing for him would be to be by Jehovah\’s side and serve the congregation the one he had persecuted before and who frankly was able to leave everything and continue serving Jehovah. (Read Philippians 3:8 and footnote.) (Acts 23:12-14) (Acts 16:19-24, 37) (Rom. 7:21-25) —2 Cor. 4:7; 12:10.

9. How should we view any seeming disadvantages we have?

9 We must see it as an opportunity to see how Jehovah helps us with his holy spirit, for example if we are going through some difficulty and at the moment we pray to Jehovah and we see how Jehovah helps us our faith will be strengthened and when other difficulties come. strong, as we are going to be strong in a spiritual and emotional sense, these types of situations will no longer take us by surprise.

And for example, at this time of the pandemic, many brothers have had the opportunity to demonstrate with their faithful service to Jehovah, despite the fact that they themselves have fallen ill or one of their loved ones have felt how Jehovah has given them the strength to continue serving him. and we have all undoubtedly heard experiences like these that make us truly feel that Jehovah continues to help his servants at this time.

Some of the things for which we can come to think that we have certain disadvantages is because perhaps our physical strength or health is decreasing or because we did not have a good education, because of our culture, or because of our material possessions. But we must remember what 1 Cor. 1:26, 27 says that Jehovah has decided to use \”the weak things of the world.\” So the possible disadvantages that we face personally are not impediments to being useful in Jehovah\’s sight. (1 Cor. 1:26, 27; Eph. 6:19, 20) 

10. Why should we study the examples set by faithful Bible characters, such as those mentioned at Hebrews 11:32-34?

10 Like those mentioned in Hebrews 11: 32,34, Jehovah made sure to include the accounts of these faithful servants in the Bible, to teach us valuable lessons so that when we read about them, we must use our imagination to see and feel what each character experienced and think about how we would have reacted in each situation, in this way we will understand more about the faithfulness they showed to Jehovah.

Because Paul did so and thanks to this he made his knowledge grow and his faith grow stronger. Paul himself mentioned that through their faith these examples of biblical characters did things that they would not have accomplished on their own. So if we want to have that same faith and continue to contribute to doing extraordinary works for Jehovah, it is good that we imitate Paul and study these faithful men of antiquity, such as King David, who we are going to analyze next.

Paul made sure to include the stories of these faithful servants in the bible to teach us valuable lessons, so when we read about them, we must use our imaginations to see and feel what each character experienced and think about how we would have reacted in each situation, In this way we will understand more about their faithfulness to Jehovah. (Read Hebrews 11:32-34.) 

11. Why did David seem to be weak? (See cover picture.)

11 Because Goliath was much bigger and better equipped and trained for war. David was nothing more than an inexperienced young man who did not seem ready for battle.

David seemed weak, because he was nothing more than an inexperienced young man who had not received military training, as we see in the drawing on the cover he would face Goliath, an incredibly huge warrior with his impressive armor, he also seemed not ready for battle But he trusted in the power of Jehovah the answer that he gave to Goliath remains to this day a powerful statement of faith, David said: to Jehovah belongs the battle. as a result what appeared to be a weakness turned out to be an advantage. and in the end he defeated his enemy proving that there is nothing that Jehovah\’s power cannot overcome.

The Bible mentions that when David faced Goliath, David was just a young man, perhaps he was in his late teens, whereas Goliath was the Philistine champion and he was 3 meters (9.5 feet) tall. And although King Saul tried to dress David in his own armor, David found it awkward and heavy. So David with the naked eye was carrying with him only his shepherd\’s staff, a bag slung over his shoulder, and a sling. Instead, Goliath carried his shield, a spear, his sword and armor that weighed 57 kilos.

ILLUSTRATION

Thanks to the illustration we can get a vivid picture of what David faced. We see that although David seemed to have disadvantages compared to Goliath, in reality these disadvantages became opportunities to see Jehovah\’s power at work. And David was undoubtedly aware that Jehovah had given him the necessary power as we see him stretching out his arms towards heaven as a sign of thanks to Jehovah.—1 Sam. 17:41-45, 50.

12. What other challenge did David have to cope with?

12 Despite being a loyal servant, he faced the envy of Jehovah\’s appointed king of Israel, King Saul. This envy caused Saul to treat him badly and even try to kill him.

David faces a problem that could have made him feel weak or defenseless, he received mistreatment from who should be his friend, King Saul himself, envy and pride had reached Saul so much that he tried several times to kill him.

The Biblical references to the 1 book of Samuel found in this paragraph show us the reasons why Saul began to see David as an enemy. The reason was that the people began to see David as someone better than Saul. And with good reason, David was a skilled warrior as he had Jehovah\’s blessing. We see then that just as we are despised for serving Jehovah faithfully, Saul despised and hated David for being his anointed to the throne of Israel and being his faithful servant.​—1 Sam. 18:6-9, 29; 19:9-11.

13. How did David respond to the unjust way he was treated by King Saul?

13 David continued to respect Saul the king whom Jehovah had appointed in Israel and trusted that Jehovah would give him the strength to endure this difficult trial.

Although Saul treated him unfairly, David did not lose respect for him, knowing that he was the king whom Jehovah had appointed. Neither did he become bitter with Jehovah or blame him for the bad things that Saul did to him, rather he left everything in his hands and trusted that Jehovah would give him the necessary strength and even provide salvation to his problems.

Perhaps the times we remember the most when David showed respect to Saul was when he had the opportunity to kill him. These were two times and both times David refused because he knew that if he did, he would be disloyal to God. Saul was king because God had appointed him, and Jehovah\’s loyal servants respect the people he has placed in charge of his people. (1 Sam. 24:6) —Ps. 18:1, superscription.

14. What situation did the apostle Paul face that was similar to that of David?

14 Paul received mistreatment from the enemies of the truth, influential leaders who hated him and who on many occasions sent him to beat and put him in prison, in the same way it happened to David he received mistreatment from people who should be his friends, some of the congregation Christian who had turned against him, but Paul did not allow himself to be defeated and although he had so much against him, he was victorious because I trust in Jehovah and not in his own strength.

It is mentioned in the paragraph that Paul had very powerful enemies, he was surrounded by influential leaders who hated him so much that they sent him to beat and to prison. Even sadly he suffered the mistreatment of those who must have been his friends and some of the Christian congregation. But despite this he did not allow himself to be defeated by his enemies, he was loyal to his brothers although they disappointed him but above all he was loyal to Jehovah.

And the apostle Paul was able to remain faithful to Jehovah despite these difficult situations because he did not trust his own abilities or learning but rather trusted that Jehovah would help him. Although Paul may have had reasons to try to fix things on his own because of his education or because of the family he came from, he did not do so, left everything in Jehovah\’s hands and showed that he fully trusted the wisdom from above .

A specific situation that Pablo had to face was when one of his collaborators named Demás abandoned him \”for loving this system.\” This undoubtedly put him off quite a bit. But Paul based his trust in Jehovah and He encouraged him using his holy spirit and other brothers such as Aristarchus, Tychicus and Mark, who comforted him and helped him to endure. Paul himself acknowledged this when he said that some of the brothers had been “a source of great comfort” (w20 Jan pp. 8-9). (2 Cor. 12:11; Phil. 3:18) (2 Tim. 4:8) 

15. What is our goal, and how can we achieve it?

15 Like Paul and King David we want to continue conquering evil with good, but of course we do not want to achieve this by embedding a stone in the forehead like David did, rather our objective is to use the Word of God to reach the mind and the hearts of those with a good attitude.

Our goal is to continue defeating evil with good, that is why we use the word of God to reach the minds and hearts of people who have a good attitude, for example if someone questions our beliefs we answer their questions with kindness and respect Even if they treat us badly, we must do good to everyone including our enemies.

Putting into practice what is recommended to us in 1 Peter 3: 15-17 where we are told that we must be ready to present a defense to all the people who demand reasons of why we believe what we believe, this we must do with the Bible. We must also be careful how we respond to those who treat us badly and we must strive so that our way of responding to them is by showing kindness and respect so that those who speak out against us are ashamed because of our good behavior as followers of Christ.

ILLUSTRATION

In this illustration we can see how coworkers of a brother are inviting him to celebrate a birthday with them. The truth is that it is a complicated test since they meet in a place very close to their workplace, but the brother seems calm and explains to them with biblical principles, kindness and respect why he does not celebrate these festivities. (Rom. 12:21) —Matt. 5:44; 1 Pet. 3:15-17.

16-17. What did Paul never forget?

16-17 Paul never forgot the lesson that Jesus taught him when he spoke to him from heaven on the road to Damascus, as he had become blind he had to resort to the same people he had persecuted, in this case he was humble and accepted the help of Ananias , who restored his sight Paul, later, although he became an important member of the Christian congregation, he continued to maintain this attitude of humility and recognized that the help of the brothers does not strengthen and are a source of comfort.

He never forgot the lesson that Jesus taught him when he spoke to him from heaven on the road to Damascus. This lesson was that he should be humble and willingly accept the help that his brothers and sisters gave him. Some years after the lesson of Jesus Christ the apostle Paul said in Colossians 4:10, 11 where he accepted that some of his brothers had helped and strengthened him a lot.(Acts 7:58; 1 Tim. 1:13) —Acts 9:3-9, 17, 18.Col. 4:10, 11, ftn.

18. Why may we be reluctant to accept help from others?

18 Because we may think that we have been serving Jehovah for many years and that we have enough experience, that makes us not so willing to accept help from others, especially if it is offered to us by a brother who has not been in the truth that long, the truth is that if we want to benefit from Jehovah\’s power, we must accept that he often uses brothers and sisters to strengthen us.

Because maybe we\’ve been serving Jehovah for a few years now and we feel like we have a lot of experience. Sometimes we may even underestimate the encouragement or help of some brothers who have served Jehovah for less time than we have.

Some of the brothers who in ancient times helped Paul were Aristarchus, Marcos and Tychicus. In the case of Aristarco, he showed loyalty when, time after time, despite suffering many difficulties, he continued by Pablo\’s side, strengthening him with his company. Marcos was a helpful friend to Pablo when he was shopping for food, looking for lodging, or doing similar things during his missionary trips. And in the case of Tychicus, he was a trustworthy friend for Paul since he named him collaborator of a collection to help the Christians of Judea.

If Paul, having the experience he had, accepted help from brothers not so experienced, how should he do the same? (1 Cor. 3:1, 2) (Rom. 1:11, 12) 

19. Why was Paul successful?

19 The reason was that Paul understood that the secret of success is not in physical strength, education, wealth or social position, but in humility and trust in Jehovah, if we imitate his example even if we feel weak, Jehovah will make us powerful.

Because he understood that the secret of success is not in physical strength, education, wealth or social position, but in humility and trust in Jehovah. We too can achieve extraordinary achievements if we put into practice the example of Paul, that is; trusting in Jehovah, learning lessons from biblical characters and accepting help from our brothers.

HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?

In what sense can we “take pleasure . . . in insults”?

In the sense that Christians see insults in their proper perspective, we understand that insults and opposition are proof that we are true disciples of Christ, as first Peter 4:14 says, if they are insulting us for the name of Christ, we are happy because the spirit of God rests on us.

We should rejoice because the words that are recorded in 1 Peter 4:14 where it says that \”the spirit of God rests on those who are insulted for the name of Christ are being fulfilled in us.\” This means that receiving insults or opposition shows that we are true disciples of Christ.

Why should we not be overly concerned about the world’s view of us?

Because despite what the world thinks of us, Jehovah is using us to achieve extraordinary things, such as carrying out the largest preaching campaign in history, he allows us to publish and distribute the magazines and different publications all over the world and we use his word the bible to help millions of people improve their lives.

Because we are not part of this world, we become more interested in what Jehovah thinks of us.

Also because if we worry too much about this we can get discouraged. Rather, we must be wise and control our emotions and our tongue, and thus we will control the situation instead of the situation controlling us.

What are three things that we, like Paul, can do to gain power from Jehovah?

The three things we must do are: trust Jehovah, learn lessons from biblical characters, and accept help from our brothers.

1) We should not rely on our own strength, rather we should rely on Jehovah. 2) We can also learn valuable lessons from biblical characters of old and 3) accept the help that our congregation brothers give us, regardless of whether they have been in the truth for a long time or a short time. By doing this even if we feel weak, Jehovah will make us strong.

SONG 71 We Are Jehovah’s Army!

1. What do we mean by the term “the truth”?

We refer to our beliefs and worship of God and that our way of living is based on what the Bible teaches.

Thus it implies much more than being part of a religion that perhaps is how other people in the world see it if not that it implies a way of life to correct our way of thinking and as the Gospel of John 8:32 says it is a truth that we libera frees us from false teachings and allows us to live in the best possible way.

And as the truth is part of our life part of our vocabulary, because when we meet another person it is normal for us to ask how you knew the truth. How long have you been born in the truth?​ —John 8:32.

2. According to John 13:34, 35, what might initially attract a person to the truth?

2 We have seen many experiences both biographies and broadcasting or interviews where brothers when they visited a kingdom hall for the first time because perhaps they do not remember what exactly was talked about but they do remember the love that the Brothers showed them the love that John 13:34 speaks of. and 35.

Also in other cases the good conduct as we see here in first Peter 2:12 when other people see our honesty our integrity the morality that we have that has also impressed them to join Jehovah\’s people.

Of course, and it is something that draws a lot of attention to people to see biblical principles in action, something that is not seen in this world, hence it causes such a shocking first impression (1 Pet. 2:1; Read John 13:34, 35.) 

3. What may happen if our faith in God is based only on the Christlike love shown by our brothers and sisters?

3 Well, as the paragraph says, it is as if we build our faith with soft materials, what feelings or emotions are like and like a house that is built with a bad foundation can fall because our faith if it is not based on a good friendship with Jehovah Or how does Romans 12: 2 say if we do not prove that truth for ourselves with facts or logical reasoning, because this faith can also be shaken.

If our relationship with Jehovah were built with these soft materials, things such as a person, an elder, a pioneer, respected brothers, commit a serious sin, hurt us or become apostate by being based simply on emotions or feelings or by just following people our relationship with Jehovah it would be put in check very soon. ​—Rom. 12:2

4. According to Matthew 13:3-6, 20, 21, how are some affected by tests of their faith?

4 And it would be delusional to think that we will never have problems, it is something that sooner or later we will all experience and as Psalm 6: 6 mentions, sometimes we can get exhausted from sighing and spending the night crying and it is something that drains our joy and Our illusions however if we have a well rooted faith will not fade.

Verses 20 and 21 show The problem is that these new disciples are not afraid of the tribulation of problems but that their heart is hard as a rock and as has been commented, they have not penetrated, they have not been convinced that this is the The truth has not fully penetrated your heart and that is why trouble comes and your faith fades. (Read Matthew 13:3-6, 20, 21; Matt. 16:24; Ps. 6:6; Eccl. 9:11.

5. How are the majority of our brothers and sisters proving that they are convinced that they have the truth?

5 Psalm 119: 165 says that if a person loves Jehovah\’s law nothing will be an obstacle for him, the vast majority of our brothers and sisters love Jehovah\’s word for them is the truth, therefore their Faith is strengthened with each trial .

And James chapter 1 verse 3 emphasizes this idea well when he says that his faith of proven quality has already been tested faith and what it produces is endurance, when we are faced with tests such as gold is refined and impurities are removed. it can remove the impurities that we may have and our quality our faith is approved and it will produce more endurance.

If I also love the first part of Psalm 119 because it says that it does not lose its peace, its peace is abundant so although we do not stumble also if we lose peace that can also measure how our faith is, we have to maybe strengthen our faith if it is happening something that is robbing us of our peace. (Ps. 119:165; Jas. 1:2-4) 

6. On what did the first-century disciples build their faith?

6 How we read in Galatians 2: 5 in the truth of the good news and that includes the knowledge of the scriptures and the teachings of Jesus Christ for example his sacrifice and resurrection.

And the Christians of Berea set a good example in this regard because we read of them in Acts Chapter 17 that when they received the word they accepted it with great interest because, because every day they carefully examined the scriptures to see if these things were as they were. they said, their feelings they had for the truth reinforced with knowledge.

And this deep knowledge that their faith was not based simply on feelings but quite the opposite as mentioning Hebrews 5 14 is a faith that through practice and training, because it facilitated that they had the ability to think to discern what it is that is good and what is not good. (Gal. 2:5; Acts 17:2, 3; Acts 17:11, 12; Heb. 5:14; Col. 1:9, 10).

7. What will our faith in Bible truths do for us?

7 Also in the psalm it is said that the essence of the word of Jehovah is the truth, the meaning of essence is that which is invariable, so the biblical truths are the ones that will sustain us in difficult moments because it will never change.

The Illustration of the paragraph is very beautiful, such as an anchor keeps a ship afloat during a storm of ours. It is based on biblical truths, I will not endure difficult moments and we have possibly seen images of small ships in big storms how they can stay afloat and thanks to that point We are going to experience or already experience extremely difficult situations and it is that knowledge that we have those truths that we know are eternal and do not vary is what keeps us always stable (Ps. 119:160) 

8. As shown at 2 Timothy 3:14, 15, how did Timothy become convinced that he had the truth?

8 Well, of course, it is the influence of her mother and grandmother that helped her since they helped her since she was little because they taught her the holy writings and also the love that the disciples of Jesus showed for each other impressed her, but this was not the only thing that It helped convince him because he also had other influences, so it was spending time and energy to study and reach conclusions that convinced him what it was that cemented his friendship with Jehovah.

And that is what 2 Timothy chapter 3 verse 14 shows, he learned them from his mother as well, but nevertheless, as shown, it says that he was persuaded and a reference work is interesting what it says that this word in its original language is to be convinced and sure that something is true or true, so Timoteo convinced himself that what he had learned from his mother was the truth. (Read 2 Timothy 3:14, 15; Phil. 2:19, 20) 

9. What three basic truths do you need to prove to yourself?

9 First we have to be convinced that Jehovah is the creator of all things It also includes understanding the meaning of his name I will be what I decide to be and according to Revelation 4:11 we have to accept that Jehovah deserves to receive the glory because he created all things.

The second thing we have to be convinced of is that the Bible contains God\’s message for us and that as we read in Second Timothy 3:16 and 17 this message from the Bible enables and complements us for all that Jehovah wants. what we do.

What Jehovah has a group of people here on earth who worship him in an organized way under the guidance of Christ and as says Acts 15:14 Jehovah would draw from among the nations a people for his name and it is a name as we see in Isaiah 43 are Jehovah\’s Witnesses.

And an idea that helps us not to overwhelm ourselves is that we do not have to be as a walking encyclopedia says here, that is to say, the objective is not to hoard biblical knowledge just because, but to use our ability to reason to convince ourselves that we have the truth. (Ex. 3:14, 15; Heb. 3:4; Rev. 4:11; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; Isa. 43:10-12; John 14:6; Acts 15:14; Rom. 12:1)

10. In addition to knowing the truth, what do we need to be able to do?

10 Well, we have the responsibility of that truth to teach it to other people and when we do that we defend our faith with which it becomes stronger.

We also have a great help is the series of conversations with a Jehovah\’s Witness that appeared in the Watchtower from 2010 to 2015 and there you see several conversations between the householder and the Jehovah\’s Witness and the reasoning that there are examples questions all This can help us so that when we are also preaching we can also transmit the truth and that the person can be convinced that this is the truth.* (1 Tim. 4:16) 

11. What example did the apostle Paul set as a teacher?

11 If you quote what acts 28:23 Paul says that he convinced them that they accepted Jesus using the law and the prophets, that is, he used the Bible but he used it reasoning about it to convince and that is what we want to do when We teach others to reason about what the Bible says so that they become convinced.

Often there is a strong bond between a Bible student and a publisher, a lasting friendship often remains after baptism, but our main goal is to teach Bible students to love Jehovah Bible students cannot base their faith in friendship with us should not accept the truth because we admire the people in the congregation.

And one point that caught my attention from verse 23 is that Paul says that he reasoned with people from morning to sunset this teaches us that when we help others to accept the truth this takes time requires us to be patient because love for Truths do not emerge overnight, so this teaches us the importance of being patient when teaching others. (Acts 28:23) 

12-13. How can parents help their children to remain in the truth?

12 –13 Not only with the idea that since they have good friends in the congregation everything is already settled, it is interesting that parents worry that the greatest friendship they have is with Jehovah, to understand why Jehovah does things to understand that everything that He has done it has been for the welfare of his servants that is important so that this truth also calms their hearts.

Also another idea that is mentioned by copying the example that we heard in the Regional Assembly that not only do we have to give them fish but also teach them to fish, explain how to use study tools to be able to obtain those deep teachings for themselves in the future and that they be good students too. (Matt. 24:45-47; 1 Cor. 2:10)

ILLUSTRATION

Well, we see a family studying biblical prophecies and we see that the example of the father because he has the book well prepared and perhaps this will help him to the questions that the daughter asked him, because he has a notepad where perhaps he has prepared several questions so the father is reasoning with her and explains why maybe she has to go through these tests or some kind of detail from the prophecies.

And we see that in this family there are two children of different ages, but the parents do not come to the conclusion that the children are too young to study deep things, looking at the cover of the book they are studying the book pure worship a deep book, seeing Also the body language of the father and that of the daughter shows that the daughter is thinking, that is, he is not only explaining the information, he is helping her to reason, perhaps he is using questions and that makes the girl think and convinces herself .

14. Why should we study Bible prophecy? (See also the box “Can You Explain These Prophecies?”)

14 There are many prophecies in the word of God is an important part of the Bible and when we study not only those that are being fulfilled today but also those that have been fulfilled in the past that will strengthen our faith a lot.

And for example Daniel chapter 2 and chapter 11 greatly strengthens our faith because we know or understand that another power is not going to come as seen in Daniel chapter 2 but that the Anglo-American power is already the last, but also by another side of chapter 11 of Daniel, maybe we thought well, we still need to reveal who the king of the North is, well we already know it too, so we see that we are at the gates of the great tribulation and the new world and that strengthens us a lot faith. (2 Tim. 3:1-5; Matt. 24:3, 7; Daniel chapter 2 or in Daniel chapter 11* 

BOX

A first idea that occurs to me is the fact that all these prophecies have really adjusted the understanding in recent years about how they apply to Jehovah\’s people and that is why it is very important that we continue to study to familiarize ourselves quickly and when there is an adjustment of understanding in order to be up to date and at the pace of the organization and that our faith is strong.

And perhaps we could also use this box this summary of prophecies to review it with our students that we help them to reason and that in this way we also help their faith to be strengthened.

Yes, also thinking about prophecies of which well here we hope for future fulfillment because also knowing them well and knowing what they mean prepares us to face the tests that we have in the future.

15-17. How did studying the Bible strengthen our brothers who were persecuted by the Nazis?          

15-17 The brothers in Nazi Germany already knew that the kingdom of God had begun to rule in 1914, they studied biblical prophecies of course before being put in concentration camps, from their previous biblical study they knew how to calculate the year 1914, they believed that the kingdom God was already ruling and they also knew from the Bible that no human government can destroy the kingdom of God, so they had a solid reason to persevere.

I really like that example because not only did they know those truths but they were convinced what that meant for themselves and that is why they knew that somehow that Hitler government would come to an end.

Yes, walking around remembering a little what we have talked about in the first paragraphs, what helped the brothers in the concentration camps was not only the love they showed each other, some in fact were even alone, but it was their knowledge and understanding of the Bible. and the prophecies and her trust in Jehovah that made her have unwavering faith. ​—2 Pet. 1:19-21

ILLUSTRATION

Well, we see this family that has studied the prophecies and thanks to that conviction and that confidence in the prophecies they have the necessary confidence the unshakeable faith to endure those tests that come.

The faces are also calm and the children see that they know exactly what to do, they are probably hiding the books and Bibles.

18. As indicated at John 6:67, 68, why do we need the “accurate knowledge and full discernment” that Paul wrote of?

18 Well, because that was what helped him in a time of trial to know how to identify where the truth was and be convinced, he knew that Jesus had the truth where he was going to go because that will help us whatever the time there is. It proves that there is the influence that we have to be convinced of what the truth is.

It says there at the end of the paragraph that our faith will remain solid in the face of trials and we will also be a source for other people because we will share the truth. (Phil. 1:9; Eph. 4:14; Read John 6:67, 68; 2 John 1, 2).

1. According to Philippians 2:3, how does our having humility promote good relationships with others?

Well, here he gives us advice to humbly think that others are superior to us and as the text mentions it emphasizes the idea that doing this is a continuous process.

And of course when we talk about humility, no one would think of buying from Jehovah, we have it very clear that Jehovah is far superior to us, now where does humility come in? With reference to the paragraph when we put Jehovah\’s will as something superior in our life, our desires in life remain as something inferior and everything that has to do with magnifying Jehovah\’s name and serving him takes a Superior place.

And the benefit of putting this into practice is that we will have a good relationship with Jehovah and with our brothers.—Read Philippians 2:3.

2. What did the apostle Paul acknowledge, and what will we consider in this article?

to). He recognized that a certain degree of self-esteem is necessary and the problem is that if we are not careful how we are selfish and proud of this world it can hit us, that is why he said that each one thinks in a way that shows good judgment.

But it is interesting that we talk about this degree of self-esteem, because one could go to the other extreme, that is to say, not thinking anything about oneself or thinking that it is worthless that what it does is useless and then that would not be what it does. Jehovah expects us, so what Jehovah really wants is that we have a balanced opinion that we try to strive to be balanced in this aspect of not being proud but also not going to the other extreme and not having any self-esteem.

FOOTNOTE

How the note applies one of the important ideas that we will analyze throughout the article is that pride goes very hand in hand with being selfish in fact the proud person thinks a lot about himself and little about the other person, therefore if we want to leave that Selfish attitude now humility is the medicine that will allow us to counteract this tendency.

(b). Well, we will see how humility will help us not to give ourselves too much importance in three fields, marriage, responsibilities within the congregation and social networks.

3. Why are conflicts likely to arise in marriage, and how do some react to those conflicts?

Well, in the letter to the Corinthians in chapter 7 and verse 28 he said that those who marry would have difficulties in life, and it must be recognized that imperfection often causes us to hurt in the way we communicate, maybe we say hurtful things or even though this motivation was not that, it is impossible that inadvertently problems arise within the marriage.

b). Well, thinking only of yourself or being influenced by the entertainment of this world that you only live once, because in marriage you may think that why am I going to be with that person fighting when they can have the rest of their lives with another person, so many have decided to divorce for that reason.

4. What must we avoid?

That our marriage has failed.

Sometimes when a marriage is faced with these series of challenges, perhaps pride, selfishness could lead one to ask the questions like the ones in the paragraph, if this marriage meets my needs, gives me the love that I deserve, it would be I am happier with another person, but of course it is a wrong way of thinking totally opposed to biblical principles, in the paragraph comes Philippians 2: 4 that says that we should not only seek our own interests but also those of others, then the idea it is to seek a team vision rather than an individual vision.

What Jehovah does want us to think is that this is his project, and as Matthew 19: 6 makes clear it is he who has created this union, so we are not the one to decide whether or not it can be broken, And this is done so to make it clear that not only is not the solution to the problems but that separation is not an option either.

5. According to Ephesians 5:33, how should a husband and a wife treat each other?

 They must be treated with love and respect, therefore, as the questions in the previous paragraph came out, we could formulate it a little and ask ourselves, do I give the love and respect it deserves?

And as the first sample of Corinthians 10:24, we will seek the benefit of our partner, so we will stop thinking about our interests and this will help us to treat each other with love.

And to give love and respect it is necessary to have the quality of humility and thus have happiness in marriage.

The verse of facts 20:35 of when it comes to giving is applied, not giving physical or material things but rather that love and that respect, therefore if we do it also the fact is that we are going to collect happiness in marriage.—1 Cor. 10:24.

6. What do you learn from the comments made by Steven and Stephanie?

For example Esteven says that they do see each other as a team because they are going to help each other, in fact when problems arise because instead of thinking that it is the best for me, again that selfish attitude must be replaced by what is it. better for us, it will help the marriage to identify those problems and work on them.

It is also very nice what Estefany says as seen in the photograph, that marriage is not a rivalry but that when there is a problem the two fight with that problem and do not fight to be right, that is achieved when the two in the married people are humble people.

ILLUSTRATION

Yes, speaking a little more in the image, the truth is that it is interesting because if we see the left side it can even cause us laughter but it could be the reality of many marriages, we see there how the two are dressed there with Kings clothes they are with a haughty attitude none of the two, due to the gesture or the bearing, he intends to start cleaning the dishes that they have accumulated there, and yet if we see on the right how different the atmosphere is, not only because they are happy they are working together, it really shows that it is a team environment that the two of them, in the end they are humble and they say we do not leave things for others to do but they do it together as a couple, so there is no doubt that in the end well that is what marriage is not a pair of rivals from an opposing team but on the contrary a joint team.

7. What attitude should a brother have when he receives a privilege of service?

Serving and serving with humility should not be allowed to go to your head.

And very recently we heard in JW a Gilead speech where the word privileges was said in Japanese and it was very interesting because it said that the dictionary translates it as special rights, which gives the idea of ​​something you deserve and that is what was used before In the publications, but instead for a few years they have translated it as an opportunity to serve and that is what it is, if we receive a responsibility a privilege it is not because we deserve it but because Jehovah wants to give us an opportunity to serve more and that we want to take advantage of it.

For addressed to the Christians of Corinth he was willing to use all his forces for good and as he said he was completely spent towards them or as it is also said exhausted and simply consumed by them and he did it with a humble attitude.—2 Cor. 12:15.

8. What do we learn from the examples of Diotrephes, Uzziah, and Absalom?

Diotrefes liked to have the first place in the congregation so much that it led him to not receive regarding the messages of John or other Christians who had responsibilities, he also spread malicious comments about them, he even wanted to expel from the congregation those who received hospitably to these brothers, so pride can lead us to do the same as Diotrephes wanting to have privileges, not with the right attitude but as personal medals and that can lead us not to accept the leadership of brothers who are leading.

And then we have the example of Uzias, as we see in the second Chronicle\’s account, we see that Uzias did not correspond to him by burning incense since he was not a priest and when he was called to attention for it, he was furious, so he was a proud person and he lacked humility when they gave him advice.

And also Absalon tried as second Samuel says to steal the hearts of the men of Israel trying to win the sympathy of the people because he wanted to be king.

And in the three cases we see that they did very badly Diotrefes had to publicly receive the denunciation of the apostle John in this third letter he wrote, Uzziah was plagued with leprosy until the day of his death, Absalon died on the battlefield. which confirms what the proverb 25:27 says that it is not good among other things to seek glory for oneself, so this confirms the point of view that Jehovah has about this way of acting.​—Prov. 16:18.

9. What example did Jesus set?

Although Jesus had and has the greatest responsibility that can be obtained in Jehovah\’s organization, he saw this as an opportunity to serve, lived with humility by his example and continues to do so and it was what he promoted as a main part of his teaching saying how Lucas mentions that the one who behaved with this humble attitude or as one of the youngest is the one who would be the oldest.

And with these words, Lucas also stressed that here he was not saying that the one with the most responsibilities was the oldest, but that the one who behaved like one of the youngest is the one who dedicated himself to serving others and that is what he did. Jesus and the good example he left us.

Sometimes we could read Lucas\’s text and say well, how can it be that I behaved like one of the youngest but that I became the oldest, why is the concept that the world has of someone older or someone important or someone famous? A Watchtower explained that this is being the greatest, it is because he becomes a more valuable servant of Jehovah so that Jehovah can use him more fully in his service, that is the attitude that we can become more valuable for Jehovah to use us more to serve others.—John 13:35.

10. What should you do if you feel that problems in the congregation are not being handled properly?

When we see something that seems unfair or bothers us, the normal and human thing is to focus on that in the problem in what in our opinion is being done wrong and it could even be that we would lose the happiness of our services to Jehovah, but Maybe we should think better about how we can change ourselves so that what we are seeing does not bother us, also if Jehovah is allowing us to go through a situation that in our opinion is unfair, let\’s see it as an opportunity to cultivate qualities or to learn a lesson that we did not know still.

Hebrews 13:17 teaches us what our work is in all this and what is the work of those who take the lead, we have to be obedient and submissive although sometimes we may not understand certain decisions but we have to obey and they are the ones who take care of us and they will be held accountable for them so be humble and understand what our role is.

The questions in the paragraph are very interesting when we see a problem we could ask ourselves, should these problems are so serious or is it time to do it or I am the right person to solve them, depending on the answer, it is you who will say if we seek the unity of the congregation or seek our glory personal.

11. According to Ephesians 4:2, 3, what are the results when we serve Jehovah with humility?

Well, we will be promoting unity within the congregation, there it clearly says, among other things, if we are humble we will be doing everything possible to maintain the unity of the spirit through the unifying bond of Peace.

We can also say that Jehovah is not impressed by our abilities, although he likes us to do our best in serving him, but he is impressed by our humility because at the same time it promotes unity.

Thinking about this, remembering that Satan, he was in heaven, had great authority, without a doubt he will have many capacities, he will be effective, but he was neither humble nor did he seek unity and it did not serve him at all, he is completely far from Jehovah, that is why we do not seek that. how I do the main thing but we want to be humble because we know that Jehovah is what he likes the most.

ILLUSTRATION

If it is as seen in the image, you can see a brother who has had various responsibilities in construction, also speaking at an assembly, also in the congregation, but also cleaning a bathroom, thus demonstrating his humility and therefore increasing the unity of the congregation, and it is good that he has these capabilities that Jehovah undoubtedly gives him but that he does not know him for this but that he is known for the humility he has.

Well, cleaning a bathroom at all times is not what makes you happy the most, but you are doing it because you value it, you know that it also brings the brothers very close when the rest of the congregation sees brothers so they make an effort in all senses you approach them and you have the ability to speak with them freely and that the brothers notice so it is a precious quality.

12. Does the Bible encourage us to have friends? Explain.

Psalm 133: 1 there gives us to understand that it is very good that the brothers spend time together and we are united, so Jehovah wants us to have good times with our friends and family.

In fact, friendship is so beneficial that Jehovah in proverbs tells us that friends can be sometimes even more attached than our own family, so Jehovah knows how happy we are when we have friends like that.

And the Bible also warns us not to go to the other extreme, the proverb says that he who isolates himself pursues his selfish desire, so humans are social by nature, we need to tell our sorrows and joys to anyone close to us obviously and Jehovah has made us with those feelings so we have to find good friends.

13. Why are some who use social media prone to loneliness and depression?

Because they are compared when looking at the photographs and the places that others have visited, and unfortunately then it feels that they do not enjoy the same thing that others are experiencing.

In addition, most people upload their best photos to social networks when they are the best moments with their friends and the best most interesting places, then of course to people who see it because it produces that feeling.

19-year-old sister says that she began to feel frustrated when she saw that others had so much fun on weekends while she was poor, she stayed at home as she says dead of boredom, but what is really happening is that she was comparing herself to what she seemed that others did, so you have to be very careful because what we do on social networks can have a lot of impact on others.

14. How can the Bible’s counsel at 1 Peter 3:8 help us with regard to the use of social media?

Well, they will help us to think about the reasons why we upload photos to social networks, to impress others, to pretend that everything is beautiful that everything is happiness when really simply a moment then we do not want to wake up in other bad desires or sadness but rather make them feel well.

The paragraph mentions a very balanced approach to social networks, the same paragraph says that they are very useful to maintain contact with family with friends, obviously we do not want to condemn this use, but the problem is when it is used against biblical principles, As the first of Peter 3: 8 says that if with our comments or with the photos that we upload the content that we post on the social network we are not united in our way of thinking, we do not show empathy, we do not show brotherly affection and tender compassion and humility, obviously not we should be using that way.—Read 1 Peter 3:8.

15. How can the Bible help us to avoid promoting ourselves?

Well, it will help us to analyze ourselves when we upload something on social networks and it will make us wonder what impression I want to make, it shows that I want to show off or maybe I\’m arousing some envy, so this will help us analyze everything.

If, as the paragraph in Galatians 5:26 says, it tells us not to become egoncentric and as it says at the beginning of the study, being selfish or egoncentric goes against the spirit of humility, then we could ask ourselves with what motivation I am uploading those images or what effects It could cause other siblings who, for example, are having a hard time now that they may have lost their job, they don\’t have everything to eat or to travel or buy expensive things so let\’s think about how they might feel if we do.

And another principle that will help us will be that of the first of John 2:16 because there are among other things it speaks of the ostentation of the things that one has and this ostentation, as the paragraph refers well, could also be translated as trying to become more important than what that one is, so on the one hand we are warned that Christians have no need for others to admire us because we do not do things with that attitude, but also as the verse itself says it says that all these things do not They come from the father but come from the world, so we do not want this vain spirit of the world to infect us.

ILLUSTRATION

Nor do we want to go to the other extreme, sharing a good meal with friends with family has nothing wrong, the problem as is being discussed is that it is always with the same motivation to show off all the places where we are going to visit or travel the meals that We take the best in high-cost restaurants or for the highest social classes, if we are always teaching and showing off at the end we are awakening negative feelings in other people and above all that we are not placing ourselves in the best position before Jehovah.

16. Why should we avoid pride?

As Romans 12: 3 tells us we want not to think more than we should and have a judgment.

And as the paragraph mentions also to avoid hurting ourselves and others, if we think about the example of Jesus and the humility that he showed he was a person that most of the stories and images that are shown to us were always surrounded by people and everyone felt comfortable with him, for if we strive to be humble we will achieve that.

And if we are proud it will be Satan who supports us, however if we are humble it will be Jehovah who supports us as first Peter 5: 5 says that the humble show undeserved kindness. (1 Pet. 5:5) Those with a sound mind do not want to have Jehovah as an opponent.

17. What must we do to remain humble?

Well, we must remove our personality travel, that is to say everything that perhaps due to imperfection or because of how the world has shaped us or we are and instead to dress ourselves with a new personality, of course that means a lot of effort, because now it means leaving all that behind and now try to follow the example of Jesus to the fullest.

And something that will help us is to think about the good results that it entails because if we are humble and we try to be humble this continuous effort, our family will be happy, our congregation will be united and we also have this extra that we will know how to use social networks.

HOW CAN YOU SHOW HUMILITY . . .

• in your marriage?

• Not giving up even if problems arise because there will be, but if we apply the recipe of love and respect, obviously we will always think of the other person\’s need and not our own.

• in carrying out your privileges of service?

• Well, if one receives a responsibility that does not go to his head but always shows humility and modesty, thus also collaborating with the unity of the congregation.

  And understand that these responsibilities are always due to Jehovah\’s undeserved kindness and not because of our abilities and that thanks to this we can benefit from that assignment and we can also benefit others.

• in your use of social media?

• Well, we read the principle of 1 Peter 3: 8 about the importance of showing humility and empathy when being careful with the images that we post, to keep in mind not to hurt anyone unintentionally by the photos or images or what we imply that what we are hanging.

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