The Shape Of The Earth

The Encyclopedia Americana said: " The earliest known image that man had of the earth was that it was a flat, rigid platform at the center fo the universe.... The concept of a spherical earth was not widely accepted until the Renaissance." Some early navigators even feared that they might sail off the edge of the flat earth. But then the introduction of the compass and other advancements made possible longer ocean voyages. These "voyages of discovery," another encyclopedia explains, "showed that the world was round, not flat as most people had believed."

Yet, long before such voyages, about 2,700 years ago, the Bible said: "There is one who is dwelling above the circle of the earth." (Isaiah 40:22) The Hebrew word here translated "circle" can also mean "sphere," as various reference works note. Other Bible translations,therefore, say, "the globe of the earth " (Douay Version) and, "the round earth." - Moffatt.

Thus, the Bible was not influenced by the unscientific views prevalent at the time regarding the earth's support and its shape. The reason is simple: The author of the Bible is the author of the universe. He created the earth, so he should know what it hands on and what its shape is. Hence, when he inspired the Bible, he saw to it that no unscientific views were incorporated in it, however, much they may have been believed by others at the time.


Continued-Next time: The Composition Of Living Things

Scientific Accuracy

For example, while the Bible was not written as a science textbook, it is in harmony with true science when it deals with scientific matters. But other ancient books regarded as sacred contain scientific myths, inaccuracies and outright falsehoods. Note just four of the many examples of the Bible's scientific accuracy.

How the earth is held in space. In ancient times when the Bible was being written, there was much speculation about how the earth was held in space. Some believed that the earth was supported by four elephants standing on a big sea turtle. Aristotle, a Greek philosopher and scientist of the fourth century B.C.E., taught that the earth could never hang in empty space. Instead, he taught that the heavenly bodies were fixed to the surface of solid, transparent spheres,with each sphere nested within another sphere. Supposedly the earth was on the innermost sphere, and the outermost sphere held the stars.

Yet, rather than reflect the fanciful, unscientific views existing at the time of its writing, the Bible simply stated (in about the year 1473 B.C.E.): "[God is] hanging the earth upon nothing." (Job 26:7) In the original Hebrew, the word for "nothing" used here means "not any thing," and this is the only time it occurs in the Bible. The picture it presents of an earth surrounded by empty space is recognized by scholars as a remarkable vision for its time. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament says: "Job 26:7 strikingly pictures the then known world as suspended in space, thereby anticipating future scientific discovery."

The Bible's accurate statement predated Aristotle by over 1,100 years. Yet, Aristotle's views continued to be taught as fact for some 2,000 years after his death! Finally, in 1687 C.E., Sir Isaac Newton published his findings that the earth was held in space relation to other heavenly objects by mutual attraction, that is, gravity. But that was close to 3,200 years after the Bible had stated with elegant simplicity that the earth is hanging "upon nothing."

Yes, nearly 3,500 years ago, the Bible correctly noted that the earth has no visible support, a fact that is in harmony with the more recently understood laws of gravity and motion. " How Job knew the truth," said one scholar, 'is a question not easily solved by those who deny the inspiration of Holy Scripture."

Continued - Next time: The Shape Of The Earth

A Unique Source Of Superior Wisdom

Is the Bible the record of that superior wisdom? Can it give us truthful answers to the important questions that have to do with the purpose of life?

Certainly the Bible is worthy of our examination. One reason is that it is the most unusual book ever assembled, very different from any other book. Consider the following facts.

Oldest, Most Widely Distributed Book


The Bible is the oldest book ever written, parts of it being composed some 3,500 years ago. It is many centuries older than any other book considered sacred. The first of the66 books that it contains was written about a thousand years before Buddha and Confucius and some two thousand years before Muhammad.

The history recorded in the Bible goes back to the beginning of the human family and explains how we came to be here on earth. It even takes us back to the time before humans were created, giving us facts about the formation of the earth.

Other religious books, and nonreligious one too, have only a few copies of their old manuscripts left in existence. About 13,000 handwritten copies of the Bible or parts of it exists in Hebrew and Greek, some of which date from close to the time of the original writing. These have survived even though the most concentrated onslaughts imaginable have been attempted against the Bible.

Also, the Bible is by far the most widely distributed book in history. About three billion Bibles or parts of it have been distributed in some two thousand languages. It is said that 98 percent of the human family have access to the Bible in their own language. No other book comes close to that circulation.

In addition, no other ancient book compares with the Bible in accuracy. Scientists, historians, archaeologists, geographers, language experts and others continually verify Bible accounts.


Conitinue-Next time: Scientific Accuracy

This is an interesting story that lets you know that God is always watching over you.

Isn't it amazing how God works in our lives! One Saturday night, this pastor was working late, and decided to call his wife before he left for home. It was about 10:00 pm, but his wife didn't answer the phone. The pastor let it ring many times. He thought it was odd that she didn't answer, but decided to wrap up a few things and try again in a few minutes.

When he tried again she answered right away. He asked her why she hadn't answered before, and she said that it hadn't rung at their house. They brushed it off as a fluke and went on their merry way.

The following Monday, the pastor received a call at the church office, which was the phone that he had used that Saturday night. The man that he spoke with wanted to know why he's called on Saturday night. The pastor couldn't figure out what the man was talking about. Then the man said: " It rang and rang, but I didn't answer." The pastor remembered the mishap and apologized for disturbing him, explaining that he had intended to call his wife.

The man said: "That's ok. Let me tell you my story. You see, I was planning to commit suicide on Saturday night, but before I did, I prayed, 'God if you're there, and you don't want me to do this, give me a sign now.'

At that point my phone started to ring. I looked at the caller ID, and it said: 'Almighty God." I was afraid to answer!" The reason why it showed on the man's caller ID that the call came from '' Almighty God" is because the church that the pastor attends is called Almighty God Tabernacle!

"Wonderfully Made"

In the Bible the palmist David acknowledged: "In a fear - inspiring way I am wonderfully made." (Psalm 139:14) Surely that is the truth, for the human brain and body were marvelously designed by the Supreme Designer.

For instance, your brain is far more complex than any computer. The New Encyclopedia Britannica notes: "Transmission of information within the nervous system is more complex than the largest telephone exchanges; problem solving by human brain exceeds by far the capacity of the most powerful computers."

Hundreds of millions of facts and mental images are stored in your brain, but it is not merely a storehouse of facts. With it you can learn how to whistle, bake bread, speak foreign languages, use a computer, or fly an airplane. You can imagine what a vacation would be like or how delicious a fruit will taste. You can analyze and make things. You can also plan, appreciate, love and relate your thoughts to the past, the present, and the future. Since we humans cannot design such a thing as the awesome human brain, then the one who designed it obviously has wisdom and ability far greater than that of any human.

Regarding the brain, scientist admit: "How these functions are carried out by this magnificiently patterned, orderly and fantastically complex piece of machinery is quite obscure... Human beings may never solve all the separate individual puzzles the brain presents." Scientific American and physics professor Raymo says: " If the truth be told, we still don't know much about how the human brain stores information, or how it is able to call up memories at will...There are as many as a hundred billion nerve cells in the human brain. Each cell is in communication, through a treelike array of synapses, with thousands of other cells. The possibilties of interconnecton are staggeringly intricate."

Your eyes are more precise and adaptable than any camera; in fact, they are fully automatic, self-focusing, color motion-picture cameras. Your ears can detect a variety of sounds and give you a sense of direction and balance. Your heart is a pump with capabilties that the best engineers have not been able to duplicate. Also magnificent are other body parts: your nose, tongue, and hands as well as your circulatory and digestive systems, to name a few.

Thus, an engineer who was hired to design and build a large computer reasoned: "If my computer required a designer, how much more so did that complex physio-chemical-biological machine which is my human body - which in turn is but an extremely minute part of the well-nigh infinite cosmos?"

Just as people hava purpose in mind when they make airplanes, computers, bicycles and other devices, so the Designer fo the brain and body of humans must have had a purpose in designing us. And this Designer has to have wisdom superior to that of humans, since none of us can duplicate his designs. It is logical, then, that he is the One who can tell us why he designed us, why he puts us on earth, and where we are going.

When we learn those things, then the wonderful brain and body God gave us can be used toward fulfilling our purpose in life. But where can we learn about his purposes? Where does he give us that information?


Continue- Next time: A Unique Source Of Superior Wisdom

What The Bible Says

The Bible, mankind's oldest book, draws the same conclusion. For example, in the Bible book of Hebrews, written by the apostle Paul, we are told: "Of course, every house is constructed by someone, but he that constructed all things is God." (Hebrews 3:4) The last book of the Bible, written by the apostle John, also says: " You are worthy, Jehovah, even our God, to receive the glory and the honor and the power, because you created all things, and because of you will they existed and were created." Revelation 4:11.

The Bible shows that while God cannot be seen, the kind of God he is can be perceived by what he has made. It states: " [The Creator's]invisible attributes, that is to say his everlasting power and deity, have been visible, ever since the world began, to the eye of reason, in the things he has made." - Romans 1:20, The New English Bible.

So the Bible takes us from cause to effect. The effect - the awesome things made - is evidence of the intelligent, powerful Cause: God. Also,we can be grateful that he is invisible, since as the Creator of all the universe, he no doubt has power so enormous that humans of flesh and blood cannot expect to see him and survive. And that is just what the Bible says: "No man may see [God] and yet live." - Exodus 33:20.

The concept of a Great Designer, a Supreme Being - God - should be very important to us. If we were made by a Creator, then surely he must have had a reason, a purpose, in creating us. If we were created to have a purpose in life, then there is reason to hope that things will be better for us in the future. Otherwise, we just live and die without hope. So it is very important that we find out God's purpose for us. Then we can chose whether we want to live in harmony with it or not.

Also, the Bible states that the Creator is a loving God, who cares very much about us. The apostle Pete stated: "He cares for you." (1Peter 5:7; see also John 3:16 and 1John 4:8, 16). One way we can see how God cares is by considering the wonderful way he has made us, mentally and physically.


Continue- Next time: "Wonderfully Made"

Design Requires A Designer

The idea that nonliving material could come to life by chance, by some haphazard accident, is so remote as to be impossible. No, all the superbly designed living things on earth could not have come about by accident, since everything that is designed must have a designer. Do you know of any exceptions? There are none. And the more complicated the design, the more capable the designer has to be.

We may also illustrate the matter this way: When we see a painting, we accept it as evidence that a painter exists. When we read a book, we accept that an author exists. When we see a house, we accept that a builder exists. When we see a traffic light, we know that a law-making body exists. All those things were made with a purpose by those who made them. And while we may not understand everything about the people who designed them, we do not doubt that the people exist.

Similarly, the evidence of the existence of a Supreme Designer can be seen in the design, order, and complexity of living things on earth. They all bear the marks of a Supreme Intelligence. This also true fo the design order, and the complexity of the universe with its billions of galaxies, each containing billions of stars. And all the heavenly bodies are controlled by precise laws, such as those for motion, heat, light, sound, electromagnetism, and gravity. Can there be laws without a lawmaker? Rocket scientist Dr. Wernher Von Braun stated: "The natural laws of the universe are so precise that we have no difficulty building a spaceship to fly to the moon and can time the flight with the precision of a fraction of a second. These laws must have been set by somebody."

True, we cannot see the Supreme Designer and Lawgiver with our literal eyes. But do we deny the existence of such things as gravity, magnetism, electricity, or radio waves just because we cannot see them? No, we do not, for we can observe their effects. Then why should we deny the existence of a Supreme Designer and Lawgiver just because we cannot see him, when we can observe the results of his amazing handiwork?

Paul Davies, a professor of physics, concludes that man's existence is not a mere quirk of fate. He states: "We are truly meant to be here." And he says regarding the universe: " Through my scientific work, I have come to believe more and more strongly that the physical universe is put together with an ingenuity so astonishing that I cannot accept it merely as a brute fact. There must, it seems to me, be a deeper level of explanation."

Thus, the evidence tells us that the universe, the earth, and living things on the earth, could not have come about just by chance. They all give silent testimony to a highly intelligent, powerful Creator.


Continued-Next time: What The Bible Says

Did Life Originate By Chance?

The Encyclopedia Americana noted "the extraordinary degree of complexity and of organization in living creatures" and stated: " A close examination of flowers, insects or mammals shows an almost incredibly precise arrangement of parts." British astronomer Sir Bernard Loveli, referring to the chemical composition of living organisms, wrote: "The probability of....a chance occurrence leading to the formation of one of the smallest protein molecules is unimaginably small....It is effectively zero."

Similarly, astronomer Fred Hoyle said: "The entire structure of orthodox biology still holds that life arose at random. Yet, as biochemists discover more and more about the awesome complexity of life, it is apparent that the chances of it orginating by accident are so minute that they can be completely ruled out. Life cannot have arisen by chance."

Molecular biology, one of the more recent fields of science, is the study of living things at the level of genes, molecules, and atoms. Molecular biologist Michael Denton comments on what has been found: "The complexity of the simplest known type of cell is so great that it is impossible to accept that such an object could have been thrown together suddenly by some kind of freakish, vastly improbable, event." "But it is not just the complexity of living systems which is so often manifest in their design." "It is at a molecular level where...the genius of biological design and the perfection of the goals achieved are most pronounced."

Denton further states: "Everywhere we look, to whatever depth we look, we find an elegance and ingenuity of an absolutely transcending quality, which so mitigates against the idea of chance. Is it really credible that random processes could have constructed a reality, the smallest element of which - a functional protein or gene - is complex beyond our own creative capacities, a reality which is the very antithesis of chance, which excels in every sense anything produced by the intelligence of man?" He also states: "Between a living cell and the most highly ordered non-biological system, such as a crystal or a snowflake, there is a chasm as vast and absolute as it is possible to conceive." And a professor of physics, Chet Raymo, states: "I am dazzled....Every molecule seems miraculously contrived for its task."

Molecular biologist Denton concludes that "those wh still dogmatically advocate that all this new reality is the result of pure chance" are believing in a myth. In fact, he calls the Darwinian belief regarding living things arising by chance "the great cosmogenic myth of the twentieth century."


Continue-Next time: Design Requires A Designer

Who Can Tell Us?

Who can tell us what the purpose of life really is? Well, if you were to visit a machine designer and saw him working on a complicated piece of machinery that you did not recognize, how could you find out what it was for? The best way would be for you to ask the designer.

What, then, of the magnificent design we see all around us on earth, such as in all living things, down to the smallest living cell? Even the much smaller molecules and atoms inside the cell are wonderfully designed and orderly. What, too, of the marvelously designed human mind? And what of our solar system, and our Milky Way galaxy, and the universe? Did not all these awesome designs require a designer? Surely he could tell us why he designed such things.


Continued-Next time: Did Life Originate By Chance?

The Effect

What is the effect of so many different ideas by scholars and religious leaders on the question of life's purpose? Many respond as did an elderly man who said: " I've been asking why I'm here most of my life. If there's a purpose I don't care anymore.

Quite a number who observe the profusion of views among the world's religious conclude that it really does not matter what one believes. They feel that religion is just a diversion for the mind, something to provide a little peace of mind and comfort so that one can cope with life's problems. Others feel taht religion is nothing more than superstition. They feel that centuries of religious speculation has not answered the question about life's purpose, nor has it improved the life of the common people. Indeed, history shows that this world's religions have often held mankind back from progress and have been the cause of hatreds and wars.

Yet, is it even important to find the truth about the purpose of life? Mental-health professional Viktor Frankl answered: "The striving to find a meaning in one's life is the primary motivational forec in man.... There is nothing in the world, I venture to say, that would so effectively help one to survive even the worst conditions, as the knowledge that there is a meaning in one's life."

Since human philosophies and religions have not satisfactorily explained what the purpose of life is, whre can we go to find out what it is? Is there a source of superior wisdom that can tell us the truth about this matter?


Continued-Next time: Who Can Tell Us?

What They Say

Confucian scholar Tu Wei-Ming said: "The ultimate meaning of life is found in our ordinary, human existence." According to this view, humans would continue to be born, struggle for existence, and die. There is little hope in such an outlook. And is it even true?

Elie Wiesel, a survivor of the Nazi death camps in World War II, observed: "Why are we here? is the most important question a human being has to face.... I believe that life has meaning in spite of the meaningless death I have seen. " But he could not say what the meaning of life was.

Editor Vermont Royster stated: "In the contemplation of man himself...of his place in the universe, we are little further along than when time began. We are still left with questions of who we are and why we are and where we are going."

Evolutionary scientist Stephen Jay Gould noted: " We may yearn for a 'higher answer - but none exists." For such evolutionists, life is a struggle for survival of the fittest, death ending it all. There is no hope in that view either. And, again, is it true?

Many religious leaders say that the purpose of life is to lead a good existence so that at death a person's soul can go to heaven and spend eternity there. The alternative offered for bad people is eternal torment in hellfire. Yet, according to this belief, on earth there would continue to be more of the same unsatisfactory existence that has prevailed throughout history. But if God's purpose was to have people live in heaven like angels, why did he not just create them that way to begin with, as he did the angels?

Even clergymen have difficulty with such views. Dr. W.R. Inge, a former dean of St. Paul's Cathedral in London, once said: " All my life I have struggled to find the purpose of living. I have tried to answer three problems which always seemed to me to be fundamental: The problem of eternity; the problem of human personality; and the problem of evil. I have failed. I have solved none of them."



Continued- Next time: The Effect

Conditions More Difficult

Many doubt that life has a purpose when they see that living conditions have become more difficult. Throughout the world more than a billion people are seriously ill or malnourished, resulting in the death of some ten million children each year in Africa alone. Earth's population, nearing 6 billion, continues to grow by more than 90 million a year, more than 90% of that growth in developing countries. This constantly expanding population increases the need for food, housing and industry, which brings further damage to land, water and air from industrial and other pollutants.

The publication World Military And Social Expenditures 1991 reports: "Every year an area of forest equal to the whole surface of [Great Britain] is destroyed. At present rates (of clearance) we shall, by the year 2000, have removed 65% of forests in the humid tropical zones." In those areas, according to a UN agency, 10 trees are cut for every 1 planted; in Africa the ratio is more than 20 to 1. So desert areas increase, and each year an area the size of Belgium is lost for agricultural use.

Also, this 20th century has had four times as many deaths from war as the previous four centuries put together. Everywhere, there is a rise in crime, especially violent crime. The breakdown of the family, drug abuse, AIDS, sexually transmitted diseases, and other negative factors are also making life more difficult. And world leaders have not been able to provide solutions for the many problems plaguing the human family. Thus, it is understandable why people ask, what is the purpose of life?

How has that question been addressed by scholars and religious leaders? After all these many centuries of time, have they provided a satisfactory answer?


Continued-Next time: What They Say

Is There A Purpose To Life?

Sooner or later, nearly everybody wonders what the purpose of life is. Is it to work hard to improve our living conditions, to provide for our families, to die after perhaps 70 or 80 years, and then to be nonexistent forever? One young person who felt this way said that there is no other purpose in life than "to live, to have children, to be happy and then to die." But is that true? And does death really end it all?

Many in both Eastern and Western lands feel that the main purpose in living is to acquire material wealth. They believe that this can lead to a happy, meaningful life. But what of people who already have material wealth? Canadian writer Harry Bruce said: "A baffling number of rich people insist they are not happy." He added: "Polls suggest a terrible pessimism has infected North America... Is anybody happy out there? If so, what's the secret?"

Former U.S. president Jimmy Carter stated: "We've discovered that owning things and consuming things does not satisfy our longing for meaning....Piling up material goods cannot fill the emptiness of lives which have no confidence or purpose." And another political leader said: "I have for several years now been engaged in an intensive search for truths about myself and my life; many other people I know are doing the same. More people than ever before are asking, 'Who are we? what is our purpose?"

Continued-Next time: Conditions Are More Difficult

A Marvelous World

Under the rulership of God's Kingdom, survivors of the end of the present system of things will be ushered into an earth cleansed of wickedness and suffering. God-given instruction will be provided for mankind, and in time "the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah as the waters are covering the very sea." (Isaiah 11:9) This upbuilding, positive teaching will result in a truly peaceful, harmonious human society. Thus, there will be no more war, murder, violence, rape, theft, or any other crime.

Marvelous physical benefits will flow to obedient humans living in God's new world. There will be a canceling out of all the bad consequences of rebellion against God's rule. Imperfection, sickness, old age and death will be things of the past. The Bible assures us: "No resident will say: 'I am sick.' "Moreover, the Scriptures promise: "At that time the eyes of the blind ones will be opened, and the very ears of the deaf ones will be unstopped. At that time the lame one will climb up just as the stag does, and the tongue of the speechless one will cry out in gladness." (Isaiah 33:24; 35:5, 6) What a thrill it will be to enjoy vibrant health every day-forever!

Under God's loving direction the inhabitants of that new world will use their energies and skills in building an earth-wide paradise. Gone forever will be poverty, hunger and homelessness, for Isaiah's prophecy states: "They will certainly plant vineyards and eat their fruitage. They will not build and someone else have occupancy; they will not plant and someone else do the eating." (Isaiah 65:21, 22) Indeed, "they will actually sit, each one under his vine and under his fig tree, and there will be no one making them tremble." - Micah 4:4.

The earth will respond to the loving care of God and obedient humans. We have these Scriptural assurances: "The wilderness and the waterless region will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron...In the wilderness waters will have burst out, and torrents in the desert plain." (Isaiah 35:1, 6) "There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow." - Psalm 72:16.

What about the billions of people who have died? Those in God's memory will be brought back to life, for "there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." (Acts 24:15) Yes, the dead will be restored to life. They will be taught the wonderful truths regarding God's rulership and be given the opportunity to live forever in paradise. - John 5:28, 29. By these means, Jehovah God will completely reverse the awful condition of suffering, sickness and death that has held mankind in its grip for thousands of years. No more sickness! No more disabilities! No more death! God "will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things [will] have passed away." - Revelation 21:3, 4.

That is how God will end suffering. He will destroy this corrupt world and usher in an entirely new system of things in which "righteousness is to dwell." (2 Peter 3:13) What good news this is! We desperately need that new world. And we will not have to wait long to see it. From the fulfillment of Bible prophecies, we know that the new world is at the door, and God's permission of suffering is nearing its end. - Matthew 24:3-14.

God's Sovereignty Asserted

Once and for all time, this tragic experiment in independence from God has demonstrated that rulership by humans apart from him can never succeed. Only God's rulership can bring happiness, unity, health, and life. Moreover, Jehovah God's infallible Word, the Holy Bible, shows that we are living in "the last days" of human rule independent from God. (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Jehovah's toleration of this and of wickedness and suffering is nearing to its end.

God will soon intervene in human affairs. The Scriptures tell us: "In the days of those kings [human rulerships now existing] the God of heaven will set up a kingdom [in heaven] that will never be brought to ruin. And the kingdom itself will not be passed on to any other people [never again will humans rule the earth]. It will crush and put an end to all these kingdoms [present rulerships], and it itself will stand to times indefinite." - Daniel 2:44,

The vindication of Jehovah God's sovereignty by means of the heavenly Kingdom is the Bible's theme. Jesus made this his foremost teaching. He said: " This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come." - Matthew 24:14

When God's rulership replaces man's rule who will survive and who will not? At Proverbs 2:21, 22 We are assured: " The upright [who uphold God's rule] are the ones that will reside in the earth, and the blameless are the ones that will be left over in it. As regards the wicked [who do not uphold God's rule], they will be cut off from the very earth." The divinely inspired psalmist sang: "Just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more... But the meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace. The righteous themselves will reside forever upon it." - Psalm 37:10, 11, 29


Next time: A Marvelous New World

The Main Issue - Sovereignty

When Adam and Eve rebelled against God, they challenged his sovereignty, that is, his right to rule. Jehovah could have destroyed them and started over with another couple, but that would not have settled the issue of whose rulership is right and best for the people. Granted time to develop their societies according to their own ideas, humans would demonstrate beyond any doubt whether rulership independent from God could ever bee successful.

What do thousands of years of human history tell us? For all those centuries, people have tried many kinds of social, economic, political, and religious systems. However, wickedness and suffering have continued. In fact,'wicked men have advanced from bad to worse.' especially in our time. - 2Timothy 3:13.

The 20th century saw a peak of scientific and industrial achievements. But it also saw the worse suffering in the entire history of the human race. And no matter what medical advances are made, the law of God still holds true: Humans separated from God -the source of life - gets sick, grow old, and die. How clearly it had been proved that humans cannot direct their own steps.'


Next time: God's Sovereignty Asserted

What Went Wrong?

God gave our first parents, Adam and Eve, a perfect start. They had perfect bodies and minds and a paradise garden for a home. If they had submitted to God's rule, they would have remained perfect and happy. In time, they would have been the parents of an entire perfect, happy human family living on a paradise earth. That was God's purpose for the human race. - Genesis 1:27-29; 2:15.

However, our original ancestors misused their free will. They wrongly thought that they could be successful independent of God, of their own free will, they stepped outside the boundaries of his laws. (Genesis, chapter 3) Because they rejected his rulership, he no longer was obligated to sustain them in perfection. 'They acted ruinously on their own part, did not remain his children, and the defect was their own.' - Deuteronomy 32:5.

From the time they disobeyed God, Adam and Eve began to degenerate in body and mind. With Jehovah is the source of life. (Psalm 36:9) So because of cutting themselves off from Jehovah, the first human couple became imperfect and eventually died. (Genesis 3:19) Consistent with laws of genetic inheritance, their offspring could receive only what their parents themselves possessed. And what was that? It was imperfection and death. The apostle Paul therefore wrote: "Through one man [Adam] sin entered into the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned." - Romans 5:12.


Next time: The Main Issue - Sovereignty

Whose Law?

Whose law was to determine the proper limits of freedom? The answer to this question has to do with the fundamental reason why God has permitted suffering. Since God created humans, he knows best what laws they need to obey for their own good and for the good of others. The Bible puts it this way: "I Jehovah, am your God, the one teaching you to benefit yourself, the one causing you to tread in the way in which you should walk." - Isaiah 48:17.

Clearly, a vital point is this: Humans were not created to be independent of God. He made them in such a way that their success and happiness depend on obedience tohis righteous laws. God's prophet Jeremiah said: "I well know, O Jehovah, that to earthling man his way does not belong. It does not belong to man who is, walking even to direct his step." - Jeremiah 10:23.

God made mankind subject to his physical laws, such as the law of gravity. Similarly, he made humans to be subject to his moral laws, which are designed to result in a harmonious society. For good reason, then, God's Word urges: "Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean upon your own understanding." - Proverbs 3:5.

Thus, the human family could never be independent from him, people would devise social, economic, political, and religious systems that would conflict with one another, and 'man would dominate man to his injury.' - Ecclesiastes 8:9.


Next time: What Went Wrong?

The Gift Of Free Will

When God created the first human, he produced more than just a body with a brain. Further, God did not create Adam and Eve to be mindless robots. He implanted in them the faculty of free will. And that was a fine gift, for "God saw everything he had made and, look! It was very good." (Genesis 1:31) Yes, "perfect is his activity." (Deuteronomy 32:4) All of us appreciated this gift of free will because we do no want all our thoughts and actions dictated to us without ever having a choice in anything.

However, was the fine gift of free will to be used without limits? In directions given to early Christians, God's Word answers: "Be as free people, and yet holding your freedom, not as a blind for badness, but as slaves of God." (1 Peter 2:16) For the common good, there must be boundaries. Hence, free will was to be regulated by the rule of law. Otherwise, anarchy would result.


Next time: Whose Law?

God's Permission Of Suffering Nears Its End

Everywhere you look, there is suffering. Some people bring it on themselves. They contract sexually transmitted diseases or experience the effects of drug and alcohol abuse or of smoking. Or they may encounter health problems because of poor eating habits. However, much suffering results from factors or events beyond the control of the average person: war, ethnic violence, crime, poverty, famine, disease. Something else that humans basically cannot control is suffering related to aging an death.

The Bible assures us that "God is Love." (I John 4:8) Why, then, has a loving God allowed all this suffering to continue for so many centuries? When will he remedy the situation? To answer such questions, we need to examine God's purpose with regard to humans. This will help us to understand why God has allowed suffering and what he will do about it.

Next time: The Gift Of Free Will

"A Town Is Exalted"

Further contrasting the effect of the upright and the wicked on a community, Solomon states: " Because of the blessing of the upright ones a town is exalted, but because of the mouth of the wicked ones it gets torn down." Proverbs 11:11

Townspeople who follow an upright course promote peace and well-being and build up others in the community. Thus, a town is exalted-it prospers. Those who speak slanderous, hurtful, and wrong things cause unrest, unhappiness, disunity and trouble. This is particularly so if these individuals are in a position of influence. Such a town suffers disorder, corruption and moral and perhaps economic deterioration.

The principle stated at Proverbs 11:11 applies with equal force to Jehovah's people as they associate with one another in their townlike congregations. A congregation in which spiritual people-upright ones led by their integrity-have influence is an assembly of happy, active, and helpful people, bring honor to God. Jehovah blesses the congregation, and it prospers spiritually. Here and there, the few who may be disgruntled and dissatisfied, who find fault and speak bitterly about the ways things are done, are like a "poisonous root" that can spread and poison others who initially were unaffected. (Hebrews 12:15) Such ones often want more authority and prominence. They stir up rumors that there is injustice, ethnic prejudice or the like, in the congregation or on the part of the elders. Their mouth, indeed, can cause a division in the congregation. Should we not turn a deaf ear to their talk and strive too be spiritual people who contribute to peace and unity in the congregation?

Continuing, Solomon says: " The one in want of heart has despised his own fellowman, but the man of broad discernment is one that keeps silent. The one walking about as a slanderer is uncovering confidential talk, but the one faithful in spirit is covering over a matter." Proverbs 11:12, 13. What great harm is cause by someone who lacks good judgment, or is "in want of heart!" He carries on his loose talk to the point of slander or reviling. The appointed elders must be quick to put an end to such an unwholesome influence. Unlike "the one in what of heart, a man of discernment knows when to keep silent. Rather than betray a confidence, he covers over the matter. Know that an unguarded tongue can cause much harm, a discerning person is "faithful in spirit." He is loyal to fellow believers and does not divulge confidential matters that might endanger them. what a blessing such integrity-keepers are to the congregation!

To help us walk in the way of the blameless ones, Jehovah provides an abundant supply of spiritual food prepared under the direction of " the faithful and discreet slave." (Matthew 24:45) We also receive much personal assistance through Christian elders in our townlike congregations. (Ephesians 4:11-13) We are indeed grateful for these, for "when there is no skillful direction, the people fall: but there is salvation in the multitude of counselors." (Proverbs 11:14) Come what may, let us be firmly determined to 'walk in our integrity.' - Psalm 26:1.

"A Town Is Elated"

The integrity of the upright and the wickedness of evildoers also have an effect on other people. "By his mouth the one who is an apostate brings his fellowman to ruin," says the king of Israel, "but by knowledge are the righteous rescued." (Proverbs 11:9) Who will deny that slander, harmful gossip, obscene talk, and idle chatter are damaging to others? A righteous one's speech, on the other hand, is pure, well-thought out, and considerate. By knowledge he is rescued because his integrity furnishes him with the points of reasoning needed to show that his accusers are lying.

"Because of the goodness of the righteous ones a town is elated," continues the king, "but when the wicked ones perish there is a joyful cry." (Proverbs 11:10) The righteous generally are loved by others, and they make their neighbors feel elated-happy and joyful. No one is really fond of "wicked ones." When the wicked die, they are not usually mourned by people in general. There certainly will be no sorrow when Jehovah 'cuts off the wicked from the earth and tears away the treacherous from it.' (Proverbs 2:21. 22) Rather, there will be joy because they have been removed from the scene. But what about us? We do well to consider if the way we conduct ourselves contributes to the joy of others.


Next time: "A Town Is Exalted"

'The Way Of The Blameless One Is Straight'

Recognizing that integrity does not always shield the upright from danger or calamity, Solomon states: "The integrity of the upright ones is what leads them, but distortion by those dealing treacherously will despoil them." (Proverbs 11:3) Integrity indeed guides the upright to do what is right in God's eyes, even under difficult circumstances, and brings benefits in the long run, Job refused to abandon his integrity, and Jehovah "blessed the end of Job afterward more than his beginning." (Job 42:12) Those who deal treacherously may feel that they are bettering themselves at the expense of the someone else and may even seem to prosper for a time. But sooner or later their own deceit will destroy them.

"Valuable things will be of no benefit on the day of fury," says the wise king, "but righteousness itself will deliver from death." (Proverbs 11:4) How foolish to slave for material gain but fail to make room for personal study, prayer, meeting attendance, and the field ministry-the very activities that deepen our love for God and strengthen our devotion to him! No amount of wealth will bring deliverance through the upcoming great tribulation. (Matthew 24:21) Only the righteousness of the upright will. (Revelation 7:9, 14) We are wise, therefore, to take to heart Zephaniah's entreaty: "Before there comes upon you the day of Jehovah's anger, seek Jehovah, all you meek ones of the earth, who have practiced His own judicial decision. Seek righteousness, see meekness." (Zephaniah 2:2, 3) Meanwhile, let us make it our aim to 'honor Jehovah with our valuable things.' - Proverbs 3:9.

Emphasizing further the value of pursuing righteousness, Solomon contrasts the outcome of the blameless with that of the wicked, saying: "The righteousness of the blameless one is what will make his way straight, but in his own wickedness the wicked one will fall. the righteousness of the upright ones is what will deliver them, but by their craving those dealing treacherously will themselves be caught. When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; and even expectation based on powerfulness has perished. The righteous is the one rescued even from distress, and the wicked one comes in instead of him." (Proverbs 11:5-8) The blameless one neither falls in his own ways nor gets tangled up in his own dealings. His way is straight. In the end, the upright are rescued from distress. The wicked may seem powerful, but no such deliverance awaits them.


Next time: "A Town Is Elated"

"Wisdom Is With The Modest Ones"

King Solomon continues: "Has presumptuousness come? Then dishonor will come; but wisdom is with the modest ones." (Proverbs 11:2) Presumptuousness-whether it manifests itself as pride, disobedience, or envy-brings disgrace. On the other hand, humble recognition of our limitations is the course of wisdom. how well Scriptural examples illustrate the truth of this proverb!

An envious Levite, Koran, led a rebellious mob against the authority of Jehovah's appointed servants Moses and Aaron. What was the outcome of that presumptuous act? ' The earth opened its mouth and proceeded to swallow up' some of the rebels, while others including Koran were consumed by fire. (Numbers 16:1-3, 16-35; 26:10; Deuteronomy 11:6) What dishonor! Consider also Uzzah, who presumptuously reached out and grabbed hold of the ark of the convenant to prevent it from falling. He was struck dead on the spot. (2 Samuel 6:3-8) How vital that we shun presumptuousness!

A humble and modest person does not suffer dishonor even when he errs. Job, though exemplary in many ways, was imperfect. His trials revealed a serious flaw in some of his thinking. In defending himself against his accusers, Job became somewhat unbalanced. He even implied that he was more righteous than God. (Job 35:2, 3) How did Jehovah correct Job's thinking?

Pointing to the earth, the sea, the starry heavens, some of the animals, and other marvels of creation, Jehovah gave Job a lesson in man's littleness compared to God's greatness. (Job, chapters 38-41) Nowhere in his speech did Jehovah state why Job was suffering. He did not need to. Job was modest. He humbly recognized the great difference between him and God, between his own imperfection and weaknesses and Jehovah's righteousness and power. "I make a retraction," he said, "and I do repent in dust and ashes." (Job 42:6) Job's integrity, led him to accept the reproof readily. What about us? Led by integrity, would we readily accept reproof or correction when needed?

Moses too was modest and humble. When he was wearing himself out in caring for the problems of others, his father-in-law, Jethro, offered a practical solution: share some responsibility with other qualified men. Recognizing his own limitations, Moses wisely accepted the suggestion. (Exodus 18:17-26; Numbers 12:3) A modest man is not reluctant to delegate authority to others, nor does he fear that he somehow loses control by sharing appropriate responsibilities with other qualified men. (Numbers 11:16, 17, 26-29) Rather, he is eager to help them to progress spiritually. (1 Timothy 4:15) Should that not be true of us also?


Next time: ' The Way Of The Blameless One Is Straight'

Integrity Leads To Honesty In Business

Highlighting the principle of honesty, using poetic words rather than legal terms, King Solomon of ancient Israel says: " A cheating pair of scales is something detestable to Jehovah, but a complete stone-weight is a pleasure to him." (Proverbs 11:1) This is the first of four occurrences in the book of Proverbs w here scales and weights are use to denote that Jehovah desires his worshipers to be honest in their business dealings.- Proverbs 16:11; 20:10, 23.

The prosperity of those resorting to a cheating pair of scales- or to dishonesty-may be enticing. But would we really want to forsake God's standards of good and bad by engaging in unethical business practices? Not if we are guided by integrity. We shun dishonesty because a complete stone-weight, a just weight signifying honesty, delights Jehovah.


Next time: "Wisdom Is With The Modest Ones"

Integrity Leads The Upright Ones

" Man, born of woman, is short-lived and glutted with agitation," says the Bible. (Job 14:1) Pain and suffering seem to be the common lot of human existence. Why, even everyday life can be full of anxieties and turmoil! What will guide us successfully through trying circumstances and help us to maintain a righteous standing with God?

Consider the example of a wealthy man named Job, who lived some 3,500 years ago in what is now Arabia. What calamity Satan brought upon this God-fearing man! He lost all his livestock and suffered the loss of his beloved children in death. Shortly thereafter, Satan struck Job with malignant boils from head to foot. (Job, chapters 1, 2) Job had no knowledge of why bad things were happening to him. Yet, "Job did not sin with his lips." (Job 2:10) "Until I expire I shall not take away my integrity from myself!" He said (Job 27:5) Yes, Job's integrity guided him through his trials.

Integrity is defined as a moral soundness or completeness and involves being blameless and faultless in the sight of God. However, it does not imply perfection of speech and action by imperfect humans, who cannot possibly measure up completely to God's standards. Rather, human integrity denotes wholeness or completeness of heart devotion to Jehovah and to his will and purpose. Such godly devotion guides, or leads, the upright ones under all conditions and at all times. The first part of the 11th chapter of the Bible book of Proverbs show how our integrity can guide us in various areas of life and assures us of the blessings that will follow. With keen interest,then, let us turn to what is recorded there.


Next time: Integrity Leads To Honesty In Business

Show Loving-Kindness To Those In Need

The Bible accounts we have discussed also underscore the fact that loving-kindness is to be shown to those who have a need that they themselves cannot fill. In order to continue his family line, Abraham needed Bethuel's cooperation. To have his remains taken to Canaan, Jacob needed Joseph's help. And to produce an heir, Naomi needed Ruth's assistance. Neither Abraham, Jacob or Naomi could fill those needs without help. Similarly today, loving-kindness should especially be shown to those in need. (Proverbs 19:17) We should imitate the patriarch Job, who gave attention to "the afflicted one crying for help, and the fatherless boy and anyone that had no helper" as well as to "the one about to perish." Job also 'made glad the heart of the widow' and became 'eyes to the blind and feet to the lame.' - Job 29:12-15.

Actually, there are 'afflicted ones crying for help' in every Christian congregation. This may be the result of such factors as loneliness, disappointment in others, serious illness, or the death of a loved one. No matter what the cause, all such dear ones have needs that can and should be filled by our willing and enduring acts of loving-kindness. - 1 Thessalonians 5:14.

So, then, let us continue to imitate Jehovah God, who is "abundant in loving-kindness." (Exodus 34:6; Ephesians 5:1) We can do so by willingly taking specific action, particularly in behalf of those in need. And surely we will honor Jehovah and experience great joy as we "carry on with one another loving-kindness." - Zechariah 7:9.

Exercised Willingly

The Bible narratives that we have considered also show that loving-kindness is extended freely and willingly, not under compulsion. Bethuel willingly cooperated with Abraham's servant, and so did Rebekah. (Genesis 24:51, 58) Joseph showed his loving-kindness without outside prodding. (Genesis 50:4, 5) Rytg "was persistent about going with [Naomi]." (Ruth:18) When Naomi suggested that Ruth approach Boaz, loving-kindness moved the Moabitess to declare: "All that you say to me I shall do."- Ruth 3:1-5.

The loving-kindness show by Bethuel, Joseph and Ruth is especially significant because Abraham, Jacob and Naomi were in no position to bring outside pressure on them. After all, Bethuel was under no legal obligation to part with his daughter. He could easily have told Abraham's servant: 'No, I want to keep my industrious girl close by.' (Genesis 24:18-20) Likewise, Joseph was free to decide whether to act on his father's request or not, for Jacob would be dead and could not compel him to keep his word. Naomi herself indicated that Ruth was also free to marry one of "the young fellows" instead of Boaz.

Bethuel, Joseph and Ruth Showed loving-kindness willingly; they were moved to do so from within. They felt a moral responsibility to display this quality toward those with whom they had a relationship, even as King David later felt obliged to manifest it with regard to Mephibosheth.

Loving-kindness is still a mark of God's people, including the men who shepherd God's flock. (Psalm 110:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:12) Such elders, or overseer, feel a responsibility to live up to the trust conferred upon them by reason of their appointment. (Acts 20:28) Even so, their shepherding work and other acts of loving-kindness in behalf of the congregation are carried out, "not under commpulsion, but willingly." (1 Peter 5:2) The elders shepherd the flock because they have both a responsibility and a desire to do so. They express loving-kindness toward Christ's sheep because they ought to and want to do this. (John 21:15-17) "I love to make visits at the homes of brothers or call them for no other reason than to show I was thinking of them," says one Christian elder. "Helping the brothers is a great source of joy and satisfaction to me!" Caring elders everywhere wholeheartedly agree.


Show Loving-Kindness To Those In Need

Expressed By Actions

Did you notice how Bethuel, Joseph and Ruth expressed their loving-kindness? They did so not only with kind words but with specific actions. Not only did Bethuel say, "Here is Rebekah" but he actually "sent of Rebekah." (Genesis 24:51,59) Not only did Joseph say, " I myself shall do in keeping with your word" but he and his brothers did for Jacob "exactly as he had commanded them." (Genesis 47:30; 50:12, 13)Not only did Ruth say, "Where you go I shall go" but she left her people and accompanied Naomi, so that "they both continued on their way until they came to Bethlehem." (Ruth 1:16, 19) In Judah, Ruth again acted "according to all that her mother-in-law had commanded her." (Ruth 3:6) Yes, Ruth's loving-kindness, like that of others, was expressed by actions.

It is heartwarming to see how God's servants today continue to express loving-kindness by actions. For example, think of those who provide enduring emotional support to infirm, depressed, or grief-stricken fellow believers. (Proverbs 12:25) Or consider the many Witnesses of Jehovah who faithfully drive the elderly to the Kingdom Hall to attend weekly congregation meetings. Anna, aged 82 and plagued by arthritis, speaks for many others when she says: " Being driven to all meetings is a blessing from Jehovah. I thank him from the bottom of my heart for giving me such loving brothers and sisters." Are you sharing in such acts in your congregation? (1 John 3:17, 18)If you are, be assured that your loving-kindness is deeply appreciated.


Next time: Exercised Willingly

Loving-Kindness From A Daughter-In-Law

The book of Ruth relates how the widow Naomi received loving-kindness from her Moabite daughter-in-law Ruth, who was also a widow. When Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem in Judah, Ruth Displayed loving-kindness and determination, saying: " Where you go I shall go, and where you spend the night I shall spend the night. Your people will be my people, and your God my God." (Ruth 1:16) Ruth later expressed her loving-kindness when she indicated her willingness to marry Naomi's elderly relative Boaz. (Deuteronomy 25:5, 6; Ruth 3:6-9) He told Ruth: " You have expressed your loving-kindness better in the last instance than in the first instance, in not going after the young fellows whether lowly or rich." - Ruth 3:10.

"The first instance" of Ruth's loving-kindness referred to the time when she left her people and stuck with Naomi. (Ruth 1:14; 2:11) Even that act was surpassed by "the last instance" of loving-kindness-Ruth's willingness to marry Boaz. Ruth would now be able to provide an heir for Naomi, who was beyond the age of childbearing. The marriage took place, and when Ruth later gave birth, the women of Bethlehem cried out: "A son has been born to Naomi." (Ruth 4:14, 17) Ruth truly was "an excellent woman," who thus was rewarded by Jehovah with the wonderful privilege of becomingan ancestress of Jesus Christ.- Ruth 2:12; 3:11; 4:18-22; Matthew 1:1, 5, 6.

Loving-Kindness Shown By A Son

Abraham's grandson Jacob also received loving-kindness. As Genesis chapter 47 relates, Jacob was then living in Egypt, and "the days approached for [him]to die." (Verses 27-29) He was concerned because he was going to die outside the land that God had promised to Abraham. (Genesis 15:18; 35:10, 12; 49:29-32) Jacob did not want to be buried in Egypt, however, so he made provisions for his remains to be taken to the land of Canaan. Who would be in a better position to make sure that his wish would be carried out than his influential son, Joseph?

The account states: " So [Jacob] called his son Joseph and said to him: 'If now, I have found favor in your eyes,... you must exercise loving-kindness and trustworthiness toward me. (Please do not bury me in Egypt). And I must lie with my fathers, and you must carry me out of Egypt and bury me in their grave.'" (Genesis 47:29, 30) Joseph promised to comply with this request, and shortly thereafter Jacob died. Joseph and Jacob's other sons carried his body "into the land of Canaan and buried him in the cave of the field of Machpelah the field that Abraham had purchased." (Genesis 50:5-8, 12-14) Thus Joseph exercised loving-kindness toward his father.


Next time: Loving-Kindness From A Daughter-In-Law

A Father Shows Loving-Kindness

Genesis 24:28-67 relates the rest of the story of Abraham's servant, mentioned in the preceding article. After meeting Rebekah, he was invited into the home of her father, Bethuel. (Verses 28-32) There the servant recounted in detail his search for a wife for Abraham's son. (Verses 33-47) He stressed that he viewed the success he thus far had met with as a sign from Jehovah, "who had led me in the true way to take the daughter for the brother of my master for his son." (Verse 48) The servant no doubt hoped that his heartfelt recounting of the incident would convince Bethuel and his son Laban that Jehovah was behind this mission. Finally, the servant said: "If you are actually exercising loving-kindness and trustworthiness toward my master, tell me; but if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right hand or to the left." Verse 49.

Jehovah had already show loving-kindness to Abraham. (Genesis 24:12, 14, 27)
Would Bethuel be willing to do the same by allowing Rebekah to go with Abraham's servant? Would divine loving-kindness be complemented with human-kindness? Or would the servant's long journey have been in vain? It must have been very comforting to Abraham's servant to hear Laban and Bethuel say: " From Jehovah this thing has issued." (Verse 50) They recognized Jehovah's hand in matters and unhesitatingly accepted his decision. Next, Bethuel expressed his loving-kindness by adding: "Here is Rebekah before you. Take her and go, and let her become a wife to the son of your master, just has Jehovah has spoken." (Verse 51) Rebekah willingly accompanied Abraham's servant, and she soon became Isaac's beloved wife. - Verses 49, 52-58, 67.


Next time: Loving-Kindness Shown By A Son

A Father Shows Loving-Kindness

Genesis 24:28-67 relates the rest of the story of Abraham's servant, mentioned in the preceding article. After meeting Rebekah, he was invited into the home of her father, Bethuel. (Verses 28-32) There the servant recounted in detail his search for a wife for Abraham's son. (Verses 33-47) He stressed that he viewed the success he thus far had met with as a sign from Jehovah, "who had led me in the true way to take the daughter for the brother of my master for his son." (Verse 48) The servant no doubt hoped that his heartfelt recounting of the incident would convince Bethuel and his son Laban that Jehovah was behind this mission. Finally, the servant said: "If you are actually exercising loving-kindness and trustworthiness toward my master, tell me; but if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right hand or to the left." Verse 49.

Jehovah had already show loving-kindness to Abraham. (Genesis 24:12, 14, 27)
Would Bethuel be willing to do the same by allowing Rebekah to go with Abraham's servant? Would divine loving-kindness be complemented with human-kindness? Or would the servant's long journey have been in vain? It must have been very comforting to Abraham's servant to hear Laban and Bethuel say: " From Jehovah this thing has issued." (Verse 50) They recognized Jehovah's hand in matters and unhesitatingly accepted his decision. Next, Bethuel expressed his loving-kindness by adding: "Here is Rebekah before you. Take her and go, and let her become a wife to the son of your master, just has Jehovah has spoken." (Verse 51) Rebekah willingly accompanied Abraham's servant, and she soon became Isaac's beloved wife. - Verses 49, 52-58, 67.


Next time: Loving-Kindness Shown By A Son

Human Kindness And Loving-Kindness

Normal human kindness and loving-kindness differ in various ways. For example, those showing human kindness often do so without having a deep and personal involvement, or relationship, with the individuals they treat kindly. If we show loving-kindness to someone, however, we lovingly attach ourselves to that person. In the Bible, expressions of loving-kindness between humans may be based on already existing relationships. (Genesis 20:13; 2 Samuel 3:8; 16:17) Or they may be founded on relationships resulting from prior acts of kindness (Joshua 2:1, 12-14; 1Samuel 15:6; 2 Samuel 10:1, 2) To illustrate this difference, let us compare two Bible examples, one of kindness and one of loving-kindness expressed between humans.

One example of human kindness relates to a group of shipwrecked people, including the apostle Paul. They were washed ashore on the island of Malta. (Acts 27:37-28:1) Although the Maltese had neither a prior commitment to the stranded voyagers nor an existing relationship with them, the islanders received the strangers hospitably, showing them "extraordinary human kindness." (Acts 28:2, 7) Their hospitality was kind, but it was incidental and shown to strangers Therefore was human kindness.

By comparison, consider the hospitality that King David show to Mephibosheth, the son of his friend Jonathan. David told Mephibosheth: "You yourself will eat bread at my table constantly." Explaining why he was making this provision, David told him: "Without fail I shall exercise loving-kindness toward you for the sake of Jonathan your father." (2 Samuel 9:6, 7, 13) David's enduring hospitality is rightly referred to as an exercise of loving-kindness, not merely kindness, for it was an evidence of his loyalty to an established relationship. (1 Samuel 18:3; 20:15, 42) Similarly today, God's servants show human kindness to mankind in general. Yet, they express enduring loving-kindness or loyal love, to those whom they have a God-approved relationship.- Matthew 5:45; Galatians 6:10

To identify some additional characteristics of loving-kindness, we will briefly consider three Bible accounts that feature this quality. From these we will note that loving-kindness extended by humans is (1)expressed by specific actions, (2)extended willingly, and (3) shown especially to those having a need. Moreover, these accounts illustrate how we may exercise loving-kindness today.




Next time: A Father Shows Loving-Kindness

Human Kindness And Loving-Kindness

Normal human kindness and loving-kindness differ in various ways. For example, those showing human kindness often do so without having a deep and personal involvement, or relationship, with the individuals they treat kindly. If we show loving-kindness to someone, however, we lovingly attach ourselves to that person. In the Bible, expressions of loving-kindness between humans may be based on already existing relationships. (Genesis 20:13; 2 Samuel 3:8; 16:17) Or they may be founded on relationships resulting from prior acts of kindness (Joshua 2:1, 12-14; 1Samuel 15:6; 2 Samuel 10:1, 2) To illustrate this difference, let us compare two Bible examples, one of kindness and one of loving-kindness expressed between humans.

One example of human kindness relates to a group of shipwrecked people, including the apostle Paul. They were washed ashore on the island of Malta. (Acts 27:37-28:1) Although the Maltese had neither a prior commitment to the stranded voyagers nor an existing relationship with them, the islanders received the strangers hospitably, showing them "extraordinary human kindness." (Acts 28:2, 7) Their hospitality was kind, but it was incidental and shown to strangers Therefore was human kindness.

By comparison, consider the hospitality that King David show to Mephibosheth, the son of his friend Jonathan. David told Mephibosheth: "You yourself will eat bread at my table constantly." Explaining why he was making this provision, David told him: "Without fail I shall exercise loving-kindness toward you for the sake of Jonathan your father." (2 Samuel 9:6, 7, 13) David's enduring hospitality is rightly referred to as an exercise of loving-kindness, not merely kindness, for it was an evidence of his loyalty to an established relationship. (1 Samuel 18:3; 20:15, 42) Similarly today, God's servants show human kindness to mankind in general. Yet, they express enduring loving-kindness or loyal love, to those whom they have a God-approved relationship.- Matthew 5:45; Galatians 6:10

To identify some additional characteristics of loving-kindness, we will briefly consider three Bible accounts that feature this quality. From these we will note that loving-kindness extended by humans is (1)expressed by specific actions, (2)extended willingly, and (3) shown especially to those having a need. Moreover, these accounts illustrate how we may exercise loving-kindness today.

Show Loving-Kindness To Those In Need

Jehovah God's Word exhorts us to love "loving-kindness." (Micah 6:8) It also gives us reasons why we should do so. For one thing, "a man of loving-kindness is dealing rewardingly with his own soul." (Proverbs 11:17) How true! Showing loving-kindness, or loyal love, forges warm and lasting bonds with others. As a result, we will have loyal friends-a precious reward indeed! - Proverbs 18:24.

Moreover, the Scriptures tell us: "He that is pursuing righteousness and loving-kindness will find life." (Proverbs 21:21) Yes, our pursuing loving-kindness will endear us to God and will put us in line for future blessing, including life everlasting. But how can we show loving-kindness? To whom should we extend it? And does loving-kindness differ from normal human kindness or from kindness in general?


Next time: Human Kindness And Loving-Kindness

ITimothy 2:11-15 - (11) Let a woman learn in silence with full submissiveness. (12) I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man, but to be in silence. (13)For Adam was formed first, then Eve. (14)Also, Adam was not deceived, but the woman was thoroughly deceived and came to be in transgression, (15)however, she will be kept safe through childbearing, provided they continue in faith and love and sanctification along with soundness of mind.

ITimothy 6:9-11- (6) However, those who are determined to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and hurtful desires, which plunge men into destruction and ruin. (10) For the love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have been led astray from the faith and have stabbed themselves all over with many pains. (11)However, you , O man of God, flee from these things. But pursue righteousness, Godly devotion, faith, love, endurance, mildness of temper.

2 Timothy 2:23-26 - (23) Further, turn down foolish and ignorant questionings, knowing they produce fights. (24) But a slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be gentle toward all, qualified to teach, keeping himself restrained under evil. (25)Instructing with mildness those not favorably disposed; as perhaps God may give them repentance leading to an accurate knowledge of truth, (26)and they may come back to their proper senses out from the snare of the Devil seeing that they have been caught alive by him for the will of that one.

I Corinthians 6:9, 10 - What! Do you not know that unrighteous persons will not inherit God's Kingdom? Do not be misled. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, or adulterers, nor men kept for unnatural purposes, nor men who lie with men, nor thieves, nor greedy persons, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit God's Kingdom.

Romans 1:21-32 - (21) Because although, they knew God, they did not glorify him as a God nor did they thank him, but they became empty-headed in their reasonings and their unintelligent heart became darkened. (22)Although asserting they were wise, they became foolish (23)and turned the glory of the incorruptible God into something like the image of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed creatures and creeping things. (24)Therefore, God in keeping with the desires of their hearts gave them up to uncleanness that their bodies might be dishonored among them, (25) even those who exchanged the truth of God for the lie and venerated and rendered sacred service to the creation rather than the one who created,who is blessed forever. Amen. (26) That is why God gave them up to disgraceful sexual appetites, for both their females changed the natural use of themselves into one contrary to nature, (27) and likewise even the males left the natural use of the female and became violently inflamed in their lust toward one another, males with males, working what is obscene and receiving in themselves the full recompense, which was due for their error. (28)And just as they did not approve of holding God in accurate knowledge, God gave them up to a disapproved state, to do the things not fitting, (29) Filled as they were with all unrighteousness, wickedness, covetousness, badness, being full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malicious disposition, being whisperers (30) back-biters, haters of God,insolent, haughty, self-assuring, inventors of injurious things, disobedient to parents, (31) without understanding, false to agreements; having no natural affection, merciless, (32)although these knew full well the righteous decree of God, that those practicing such things are deserving of death, they not only keep on practicing them but also consent with those practicing them.

Romans 2:1-16- (1) therefore you are inexcusable O man, whoever you are, if you judge, for in the thing in which you judge another, you condemn yourself, inasmuch as you that judge practice the same things. (2)Now we know that the judgment of God is, in accord with the truth, against those who practice such things. (3) But do you have this idea, O man, while you judge those who practice such things and yet you do them, that you will escape the judgment of God? (4) Or do you despise the riches of his kindness and forebearance and long-suffering, because you do not know that the kindly [quality] of God is trying to lead you to the repentance? (5)But according to your hardness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath and of the revealing of God's righteous judgment. (6)And he will render to each one according to his works: (7)everlasting life to those who are seeking glory and honor and incorruptibleness by endurance in work that is good; (8)However, for those who are contentious and who disobey the truth but obey unrighteousness there will be wrath and anger, (9) tribulation and distress, upon the soul of every man who works what is injurious fo the Jew first and also of the Greek; (10) But glory and honor and peace for everyone who works what is good, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. (11) For there is no partiality with God. (12) For instance, all those who sinned without law will also perish without law; But all those who sinned under law will be judged by law. (13)For the hearers of law are not the ones righteous before God, but the doers of law will be declared righteous. (14) For whenever people of the nations that do not have law do by nature the things of the law; these people, although not having law, are a law to themselves. (15) They are the very ones who demonstrate the matter of the law to be written in their hearts, while their conscience is bearing witness wih them and , between their own thoughts, they are being accused or even excused. (16) This will be in the day when God through Christ Jesus judges the secret things of mankind, according to the good news I declare.

Ecclesiates 8:9 - All this I have seen, and there was an applying of my heart to every work that has been done under the sun, [during] the time that man has dominated man to his injury.

Bible Verses To Live By

Ephesians 5:3-12- (3) Let fornication and uncleaness of every sort or greediness not even by mentioned among you, just as it befits holy people. (4) Neither shameful conduct nor foolish talking nor obscene jesting things which are not becoming but rather the giving of thanks. (5) For you know this, recognizing it for yourselves, that no fornicator or unclean person or greedy person-which means being an idolater-has any inheritance in the Kingdom of the Christ and of God. (6) Let no man deceive you with empty words, for because of the aforesaid things the wrath of God is coming upon the sons of disobedience. (7) Therefore, do not become partakers with them; (8) For you were once darkness, but you are now light in connection with [the] Lord. Go on walking as children of light, (9) for the fruitage of the light consist of every sort of goodness and righteousness and truth. (10)Keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord; (11)and quit sharing with [them] in unfruitful works that belong to the darkness, but rather even be reproving [them], (12) for the things that take place in secret by them it is shameful even to relate.

Ephesians 6:10-13- (10) Finally, go on acquiring power in [the] Lord and in the mighiness of his strength (11) Put on the complete suit of armor from God that you may be able to stand firm against the machinations of the Devil; (12) because we have a wrestling, not against blood and flesh, but against the governments, against the authorities, against the world rulers of this darkness, against the wicked spirit forces in the Heavenly places. (13) On this account take up the complete suit of armor from God, that you may be able to resist in the wicked day and after you have done all things thoroughly, to stand firm.

God's Servants Are Favored

Jehovah's loving-kindness "has filled the earth," and how we appreciate this quality of God! (Psalm 119:64) We wholeheartedly respond to the psalmist's refrain: "O let people give thanks to Jehovah for his loving-kindness and for his wonderful works to the sons of men." (Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31) We rejoice that Jehovah extends his loving-kindness to his approved servants - either as individuals or as a group. In prayer, the prophet Daniel addressed Jehovah as "the true God, the great One and the fear inspiring One, keeping the covenant and the loving-kindness to those loving him and to those keeping is commandments."
(Daniel 9:4) King David prayed: " Continue your loving-kindness to those knowing you." (Psalm 36:10) How grateful we are that Jehovah expresses loving-kindness toward his servants! - I Kings 8:23; I Chronicles 17:13).

Truly, we are favored as Jehovah's people! In addition to benefiting from God's love shown to mankind in general, we enjoy distinctive blessings resulting from our heavenly Father's loving-kindness, or loyal love. (John 3:16) Especially in time of need do we benefit from this precious quality of Jehovah. (Psalm 36:7) But how can we imitate the loving -kindness of Jehovah God? Are we individually displaying this remarkable quality?

Jehovah's Loving-Kindness Never Fails

Jehovah repeatedly expressed his loving-kindness toward the Israelites as a people. Psalm 136 relates that in his loving-kindness, he granted them deliverance (Verses 10-15), guidance (Verse 16), and protection (Verses 17-20) God has also displayed his loving-kindness toward individuals. A person who shows loving-kindness to fellow humans does so by voluntary deeds intended to fill a crucial need. Concerning loving-kindnesses, one Bible reference work states: "It is an act that preserves or promotes life. It is intervention on behalf of someone suffering misfortune or distress." One scholar describes it as "love translated into action."

The Genesis accounts that we have examined show us that Jehovah never fails to display his loving-kindness to those who love him. Lot, Abraham and Joseph lived under different circumstances and faced distinct trials. They were imperfect humans, but they were approved servants of Jehovah, and they were in need of divine help. We can take comfort in the fact that our loving heavenly Father displays loving-kindness toward such individuals.

Lot made some unwise decisions that led to hardships. (Genesis 13:12, 13; 14:11, 12) Yet, he also displayed commendable qualities. When two of God's angels arrived in sodomy Lot showed them hospitality. (Genesis 19:1-3) In faith he warned his son's-in-law about the imminent destruction of Sodom. (Genesis 19:14) God's view of Lot is found at 2 Peter 2:7-9, where we read: "[Jehovah] delivered righteous Lot, who was greatly distressed by the indulgence of the law-defying people in loose conduct-for that righteous man by what he saw and heard while dwelling among them from day to day was tormenting his righteous soul by reason of their lawless deeds-Jehovah knows how to deliver people of godly devotion out of trial." Yes, Lot was a righteous man, and the wording here implies that he was a person of godly devotion. Like him, we enjoy God's loving-kindness as we engage in "holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion."

The account in Genesis chapter 24 leaves no doubt about Abraham's bond with Jehovah. The first verse states that "Jehovah had blessed Abraham in everything." Abraham's servant called Jehovah "the God of my master Abraham." (Verses 12, 27) And the disciple James says that Abraham was "declared righteous" and
came to be called 'Jehovah's friend.'" (James 2:21-23) Much the same is true of Joseph. the close relationship between Jehovah and Joseph is emphasized throughout Genesis chapter 39. (Verses 2, 3, 21, 23) Moreover, regarding Joseph, the disciple Stephen said: " God was with him." - Acts 7:9.

The recipients of divine loving-kindness whom we have just considered were individuals who had a good relationship with Jehovah God and served the divine purpose in certain ways. They faced obstacles that they could not have overcome by themselves. At stake were the preservation of Lot's life, the continuation of Abraham's family line, and the securing of Joseph's role. Only Jehovah could fill the needs of these godly men, and he did just that by intervening with acts of loving-kindness. If we are to experience Jehovah God's loving-kindness forever, we too must have a close personal relationship with him, and we must continue to do his will- Ezra 7:28; Psalm 18:50.

Next time: God's Servants Are Favored