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.

• 
  

1. How does Jehovah feel when one of his sheep is rescued?

On one occasion, he told the Israelites who had separated from him: \”Come back to me, and I will come back to you.\” And we know that today he still feels the same, because he says: \”I do not change.\” Furthermore, Jesus said that Jehovah and the angels are very happy when a lost sheep returns.​—Luke 15:10, 32.

2. What will we consider in this article?

2In this article, we will discuss three parables of Jesus that focus on helping those who have turned away from Jehovah. We will see what qualities we need to help them return to it and why it is worth the effort to support the weak.

3-4. Why did the woman mentioned at Luke 15:8-10 search so carefully for her lost drachma?

The central point of this story is how hard he tries to find it, because in the time of Jesus, on the day that Jewish women were getting married, some mothers gave them a set of 10 drachma coins. The woman in the parable may have lost one of these silver coins.​—Read Luke 15:8-10.

5. Why might it be difficult to locate those who have left the congregation?

Jesus teaches us that finding something that has been lost takes effort. The same happens when looking for the inactive. They may not have been in contact with the congregation for years. Perhaps now they live in another area, where the brothers do not know them. But surely at this very moment some of them want to return to Jehovah, but they need our help.

6. How can all in the congregation be involved in the search for inactive ones?

The entire congregation, both their relatives and elders, pioneers and publishers, Let us explain that, if they wish to be visited, we will gladly pass on their contact information to the elders of the congregation, always in accordance with the corresponding regulations of our country.

7. What do you learn from the comments of an elder named Thomas?

What I learn is that just as Brother Thomas was interested in his sheep, I must also cultivate a genuine interest in those who have distanced themselves from Jehovah\’s organization, since it is not an easy mission, as it requires a lot of patience and commitment , since you do not need to be an old man to do it, as we can collaborate with them.

8. In the illustration of the lost son, found at Luke 15:17-24, how did the father treat his repentant son?

Jesus tells that the son ends up regaining his senses and decides to go home. The father runs to meet him and embraces him lovingly to assure him that he still loves him. The young man has many regrets and thinks that he no longer deserves to be called his son. The father is moved to see that his son opens his heart to him and is sorry. So he organizes a banquet and sends for the best quality clothes. In this way, he shows him that he does not receive him as one of his workers, but as a beloved member of the family.

9. What attitude must we have in order to help inactive ones to return to Jehovah? (See the box “How to Help Those Who Want to Return.”)

we can help them return. For this we must have patience, empathy and love. Why do we need these particular qualities.

ILLUSTRATION

Series of images: 1. An elderly man sends a text message to an inactive brother. The inactive brother reads the elder\’s message during a break from work. 2. Another elder brings a box of fruit to the inactive brother, who is repairing his car. 3. Another old man listens to the inactive brother while they have a coffee sitting in a park.

In most cases, the inactive need the support of good friends. This support can be provided in the following ways:

Keeping in touch and even visiting them over and over again.

Showing them sincere love and confirming that Jehovah loves them and the brothers too.

Listening to them with empathy and trying to understand their problems and feelings without rushing to criticize them.

10. What part does patience play in helping someone to recover spiritually?

We need patience because it will take time for a person to regain her friendship with Jehovah. Many Christians who were inactive acknowledge that the elders and other brothers of the congregation had to visit them many times before they returned to Jehovah.

11. Why do we need empathy to soothe hurt feelings?

Empathy is like an ointment that helps us heal hurt feelings. Some inactive people walked away because they were offended by someone in the congregation, and they have resented years. That is why they do not want to return to Jehovah. Others may think they suffered injustice. They may need someone to listen to them and understand how they feel.

12. Illustrate how Jehovah’s love draws inactive ones back to his people.

That is what God wants to do today with those who are inactive and drowning in a sea of ​​problems and worries. You want them to know that you love them and want to help them get back. And he can use us to express that love to them.

13. Relate an experience that illustrates the power of brotherly love.

An older sister greeted me and spoke to me with great affection and love. I started crying like a child. I told her that it seemed that Jehovah had sent her to talk to me. It was then that I decided to return to Jehovah.

14. According to the illustration found at Luke 15:4, 5, what did the shepherd do once he found the lost sheep?

They will surely be spiritually weak. So we need to help them renew their faith in Jehovah. In the parable of the lost sheep, Jesus says that the shepherd carries her on his shoulders and leads her back to the flock. The pastor has already spent time and energy looking for it. But he knows that he will have to help her return because she will not have the strength to do it alone.—Read Luke 15:4, 5.

15. How can we support weak ones who want to return to Jehovah? (See the box “An Invaluable Tool.”)

We may need to spend time and energy helping some of the inactive to get spiritually strong again. So if the elders ask us to help an inactive, we gladly accept.  An invaluable tool

The brochure Jehovah Wants Me Back can make inactive people want to return to the congregation.

Maria, mentioned in the article, says: \”This brochure helped me to realize that Jehovah loves me, and that he wants to always be by my side.\”

Flora from Cameroon recalls: “Part 4 of the Jehovah Wants Me Back booklet helped me tremendously. It gave me the strength and courage to open my heart to Jehovah, and then explain my situation to the elders, who had helped me so much.

Tatyana from Bulgaria says: “The brochure was like a personal invitation from Jehovah. It made me see that he cares about his lost sheep, regardless of the reasons why they were lost. \”

16. How do we know that we can count on heavenly support?

There are many experiences that indicate that angels help us to find the inactive who are willing to return to Jehovah. For example, Silvio, who is from Ecuador, pleaded with Jehovah to help him return to the congregation. While he was still praying, his doorbell rang. They were two old men. On that same visit, they gladly began to give him the help he needed.

17. What reward do we receive for helping the spiritually weak?

Helping those who are spiritually weak to return to Jehovah will make us very happy.—Acts 20:35.

18. If you are inactive, of what can you be sure?

But remember the father of Jesus\’ parable. Jehovah is waiting for you to return to his family, and he will welcome you with open arms. You can be sure that God still loves you and wants you to return.

HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?

• How can we search for those who have become inactive?

• We can all cooperate to search for them, perhaps we have an inactive friend or relative or we know of someone who lives in our territory or we have found him in public preaching, the important thing is to explain that if he wishes to be visited with pleasure we will pass on his information about I contacted the elders of the congregation, who if they want to return to Jehovah a warm welcome awaits them.

• What three qualities can help us to be successful?

• The qualities that we must have are patience, empathy and love, we must bear in mind that often in spiritual recovery it is slow, it goes step by step, we want to speak to them in a positive way and with understanding tell them that they are of great value in the eyes of Jehovah and not desist in our efforts to help them.

• Why do inactive ones need consistent loving support?

• Because they may feel intense emotional pain that is why we have to help them renew their faith in Jehovah, we know that they will not have the strength to do it alone, so once they return they need us to continue helping and encouraging them with love.

• SONG 103 Shepherds​—Gifts in Men