An Encouraging Experience
"When I was a young boy in boarding school, I got involved in homosexual practices, although I never thought of myself as being homosexual. My parents were divorced and I craved the parental affection that I never received. After finishing school, I did compulsory military service. There was a group of homosexuals in the barracks next to mine. I became envious of their life-style, so I started associating with them. After associating with them for a year, I began to think of myself as a homosexual. 'This is the way I am,' I reasoned, 'and I can do nothing about it.'

"I started learning the lingo and going to gay clubs, where drugs and alcohol were freely available. Although outwardly it all seemed very exciting and appealing,it was actually sickening. Deep down I sensed that this kind of relationship was unnatural and had no future.

"In a small town, I came across a Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses while the meeting was on. I went in and listened to the talk, which dealt with the future Paradise conditions. Afterward I met some of the Witnesses and was invited to an assembly. I went, and that was a revelation to me-seeing happy families worshipping together. I started to study the Bible with the Witnesses.

"Although it was a struggle for me, I started to apply what I was learning from the Bible. I was able to break free from all my unclean practices. After studying for 14 months, I dedicated my life to Jehovah and was baptized. For the first time in my life, I had real friends. I have been able to help others learn the truth from the Bible, and now I serve as a ministerial servant in the Christian congregation. Jehovah has truly blesssed me.

Next time: We Are Responsible

The Root Of Mankind's Trouble
As we have already seen, mankind's problems started when the first human pair sinned. The result? While generations of Adam's offspring are not responsible for Adam's sin, they nonetheless are all born with sin, imperfection, and death as their inherited lot in life. The Bible explains: " That is why, just as through one man sin entered into the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned." - Romans 5:12.

Man's imperfection puts him at a decided disadvantage. But that does not absolve him of all moral responsibility. The Bible shows that those who put faith in Jehovah's provision for life and conform their lives to God's standards will have his approval. Out of his loving-kindness, Jehovah made a merciful provision to redeem mankind, to buy back, as it were, what Adam had lost. That provision is the ransom sacrifice of his perfect Son, Jesus Christ, who said: " God loved the world so much that he gave his only begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life." - John 3:16; 1Corinthians 15:21, 22.

The apostle Paul expressed his deep appreciation for this provision. He exclaimed: " Miserable man that I am! Who will rescue me from the body undergoing this death? Thanks to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!" (Romans 7:24, 25) Paul new that if he succumbed to sin out of weakness, he could ask God's forgiveness on the basis of the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

As in the first century, today many who formerly led very bad lives or whose situation seemed hopeless have come to an accurate knowledge of Bible truth, made the necessary changes, and come in line for God's blessing. The changes they had to make were not easy, and many still have to contend with harmful tendencies. But with God's help, they are able to maintain integrity and find joy in serving him. (Philippians 4:13) Consider, just one example of someone who made drastic changes in order to please God.

Next time: An Encouraging Experience

The Evidence Against Biology

For a long time, scientists have been tackling the monumental task of finding genetic cures for human pathology and behavior. After ten years of work by six teams of researchers, the gene linked to Huntington's disease was isolated, although the researchers have no idea how the gene causes the disease. However, reporting on this research, Scientific American quoted Harvard biologist Evan Balaban, who said that it would be "almost infinitely harder to discover genes for behavioral disorders."

In fact, research attempting to link specific genes to human behavior has been unsucessful. For instance, in Psychology Today, a report on efforts to find genetic causes for depression states: "Epidemiologic data on the major mental illnesses make it clear that they can't be reduced to purely genetic causes.." The report gives an example: "Americans born before 1905 had a 1 percent rate of depression by age 75. Among Americans born a half century later, 6 percent become depressed by age 24! " It thus concludes that only external or social factors can bring about such dramatic changes in such a short time.

What do these and numerous other sutdies tell us? While genes may play a role in shaping our personalities, there clearly are other influences. A major factor is our environment, which has undergone radical changes in modern times. Concerning what today's youth are exposed to in popular entertainment, the book Boys Will Be Boys observes that it is unlikely that children will develop sound moral principles when they "grow up watching tens of thousands of hours of TV shows and films in which people are assaulted, shot, stabbed, disemboweled, chopped up, skinned, or dismembered, when children grow up listening to music which glorifies rape, suicide, drugs, alcohol and bigotry."

Clearly, Satan, "the ruler of this world," has shaped an environment that caters to man's baser desires. And who can deny the powerful influence that such an environment exerts on all of us? - John 12:31; Ephesians 6:12; Revelation 12:9, 12.
Next time: The Root Of Mankind's Trouble

How It All Started

Most people are familiar with, or at least have heard of, the account about the fall of the first human pair, Adam and Eve, in the garden of Eden. Were they made with some intrinsic defect in the genes right from the start, a sort of design flaw that predisposed them to sin and disobedience? Their Creator, Jehovah God, whose works are all perfect, proclaimed that his crowning earthly creation was "very good." ( Genesis 1:31; Deuteronomy 32:4) As further evidence of his satisfaction with his work, he gave the first couple his blessing and instructed them to be fruitful, to fill the earth with human creatures, and to take charge of his earthly creation-hardly the actions of someone uncertain of his handiwork. - Genesis 1:28.

Regarding the creation of the first human pair, the Bible tells us: " God proceeded to create the man in his image, in God's image he created him; male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:27) This does not mean that humans were made to resemble God in physical appearance, for "God is a Spirit." (John 4:24) Rather, it means that human creatures were endowed with godly qualities and a sense of morality, a conscience. (Romans 2:14, 15) They were also free moral agents, capable of weighing a matter and deciding on the action to take. However, our first parents were not left without guidelines. Rather, they were warned of the consequences of wrongdoing. (Genesis 2:17) So the evidence indicates that when Adam was faced with a moral decision, he chose to do what to him seemed expedient or advantageous at the time. He followed his wife in her wrong doing instead of considering his relationship with his Creator or the long-term affects of his action. He also tried later to shift the blame to Jehovah, saying that the wife he had provided misled him. - Genesis 3:6, 12; 1Timothy 2:14.

God's response to the sin of Adam and Eve is revealing. He did not try to correct some 'design flaw' in their genes. Rather, he carried out what he told them would be the consequences of their actions, which led to their eventual death. (Genesis 3:17-19) This early history sheds much light on the nature of human behavior."

Who Is To Blame You Or Your Genes?

Scientists are hard at work to try to find genetic causes for alcoholism, homosexuality, promiscuity, violence, other aberrant behavior and even for death itself. Would it not be a relief to find that we are not responsible for our actions but are merely victims of biology? It is human nature to blame someone or something else for our errors.
If the genes are to blame, scientists hold out the possibility of changing them, eliminating undesirable traits through genetic engineering. The recent success in mapping the entire human genome has given such aspirations new impetus.
This scenario, however, is based on the premise that our genetic endowment is indeed, the villain responsible for all our sins and errors. Have the scientific detectives found enough evidence to make a case against our genes? Obviously, the answer will profoundly affect how we see ourselves and our future. Before examining the evidence, though, a look at mankind's origins will prove enlightening.


Next time: How It All Started

Myth 5: Death Means The Permanent End Of Our Existence

We cease to exist when we die, but this does not mean that everything is necessarily finished. The faithful man Job knew that he would go to the grave, Sheol, when he died. But listen to his prayer to God: " O that in Sheol you would conceal me, that you would keep me secret until your anger turns back, that you would set a time limit for me and remember me! If an able-bodied man dies can he live again?...You will call, and I myself shall answer you." - Job 14:13-15.

Job believed that if he was faithful until death, he would be remembered by God and in time be resurrected. This was the belief of all of God's servants in ancient times. Jesus himself confirmed this hope and showed that God would use him to raise the dead. Christ's own words give us this assurance: " The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear [Jesus']voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment." - John 5:28, 29.

Very shortly God will remove all wickedness and establish a new world under heavenly rulership. (Psalm 37:10, 11; Daniel 2:44; Revelation 16:14, 16) the result will be a paradise over the whole earth, inhabited by people who server God. In the Bible we read: " I heard a loud voice from the throne say: 'Look! the tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he 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 have passed away.' " - Revelation 21:3, 4.

Free From Fear

Knowledge of the resurrection hope coupled with knowledge of the one who is the source of that provision can comfort you. Jesus promised: " You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32) That includes emancipating us from the fear of death. Jehovah is the only one who can actually change the process of aging and death and grant us eternal life. Can you believe in God's promises? Yes, you can because God's Word always comes true. (Isaiah 55:11) We urge you to learn more about God's purposes for mankind. Jehovah's Witnesses will be delighted to help you.

Myth 4: Some People Are Just Tormented After Death

Many religions teach that the wicked will go to a fiery hell and be tormented forever. Is this teaching logical and Scriptural? The human life span is limited to 70 or 80 years. Even if someone was guilty of extreme wickedness all his life, would everlasting torment be just a punishment? No. It would be grossly unjust to torment a man forever for the sins that he committed in a short lifetime.

Only God can reveal what happens after people die, and he has done so in his written Word, the Bible. This is what the Bible says: "As the [beast] dies, so the [man] dies; and they all have but one spirit....all are going to one place. They have all come to be from the dust, and they are all returning to the dust." (Ecclesiastes 3:19, 20) There is no mention here of a fiery hell. Humans return to dust - to nonexistence -when they die.

In order to be tormented, a person has to be conscious. Are the dead conscious? Once again, the Bible gives the answer: "the living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all, neither do they anymore have wages,m because the remembrance of them has been forgotten." (Ecclesiastes 9:5) It is impossible for the dead , who are conscious of nothing at all," to experience agony anywhere.


Continued - Next time: Myth 5: Death means the permanent end of our existence.

Myth 3: God Takes Little Children To Become Angels

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, who studied terminally ill individuals, referred to another common perception among religious people. Describing a real incident, she stated that it is "unwise to tell a little child who lost her brother that God loved little boys so much that he took little Johnny to heaven." Such a statement cast God in a bad light and does not reflect his personality and behavior. Dr. Kubler-Ross continued: " When this little girl grew up to be a woman she never solved her anger at God, which resulted ina psychotic depression when she lost her own little son three decades later."

Why would God snatch a child to get another angel - as if God needed a child more than the child's parents did? If it were true that God takes children, would that not make him an unloving, selfish Creator? Contrary to such a perception, the Bible says: " Love is from God." (1John 4:7) Would a God of love cause a loss that even humans with any measure of decency would not tolerate?

So why do children die? Part of the Bible's answer is recorded at Eclesiastes 9:11: "Time and unforeseen occurrence befall them all." And Psalm 51:5 tells us that all of us are imperfect, sinful, from the time of our conception, and the eventuality for all men now is death from any number of causes. Sometimes death strikes before birth, resulting in a stillbirth. In other cases, children succumb to their dire circumstance's or have accidents and die. God is not responsible for such eventualities.


Continued -Next time: Myth 4: Some People Are Tormented After Death

Myth 2: God Takes People In Death To Be With Him

A 27 year - old mother who was dying and leaving three children behind told a Catholic nun: " Don't come in and tell me this is God's will for me.... I hate it when somebody else tells me this." Yet, this is what many religions teach about death - that God takes people to be near him.

Is the Creator really so cruel that he would callously inflict death on us, knowing that this breaks our hearts? No, not the God of the Bible. According to 1 John 4:8, "God is love." Note that it does not say that God has love or that God is loving, but it says that God is love. So intense, so pure, so perfect is God's love, so thoroughly does it permeate his personality and actions that he may rightly be spoken of as the very personification of love. This is not a God who takes people in death to be near him.

False religion has left many confused as to the whereabouts and condition of the dead. Heaven, hell, purgatory, limbo - these and various other destinations range from being incomprehensible to being downright terrifying. The Bible, on the other hand, tells us that the dead are unconscious; They are in a condition best compared to sleep. (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10; John 11:11-14) Thus, we need not worry about what happens to us after death, any more than we worry when we see someone sleeping soundly. Jesus spoke of a time when "all those in the memorial tombs" would "come out" to renewed life on a paradise earth. - John 5:28, 29; Luke 23:43.




Continued-Next time: Myth 3: God takes little children to become angels.

A Closer Look At Some Myths About Death

Throughout history, man has stood perplexed and apprehensive before the dark prospect of death. What is more, fear of death has been fueled by a mix of false religious ideas, popular customs, and ingrained personal beliefs. The problem with fear of death is that it can paralyze one's ability to enjoy life and erode one's confidence that there is meaning to life.
Popular religion is especially reprehensible for promoting a number of popular myths regarding death. By examing a few of these under the light of Bible truth, see if you personal perceptions about death can be clarified.

Myth 1: Death is the natural end of life.

"Death ...is an integral part of our lives, " says the book of Death - The Final Stage Of Growth. Comments like this reflect the belief that death is normal, the natural ending of all living organisms. In turn, such a belief has fostered a nihilistic philosophy and opportunistic behavior in many.
But is death really the natural end of life? Not all researchers believe so. For instance, Calvin Harley, a biologist who studies human aging, says in an interview that he does not believe that humans "have a program to die." Immunolisist William Clark observed: "Death is not inextricable interwined with the definition of life." And Seymour Benzer, of the California Institute of technology, muses that "aging can be better described not as a clock but as a scenario, which we can hope to edit."
When scientists study the design of humans, they are baffled. They find that we have been endowed with resources and capabilities that far exceed the needs of our 70 - 80 year life span. For example, scientists have found that the human brain has immense memory capacity. Our reseacher estimated that our brain can hold information that "would fill some twenty million volumes, as many as in the world's largest libraries." Some neuroscientist figure that during an average lifetime, a person uses only 1/100 of 1 percent (.0001) of his potential brain capacity. It is appropriate to ask, 'why do we have a brain with such a large capacity when we utilize only a tiny fraction of it in an average lifetime?'

Consider also how unnaturally humans react to death! For the majority, the death of a wife, a husband, or a child can be the oust upsetting experience of a lifetime. People's entire emotional makeup is often jarred for a long time after the death of a person dearly loved. Even those who claim that death is natural to humans find it hard to accept the idea that their own death will mean the end of everything. The British Medical Journal spoke of "a common expert presumption that everybody wants to live as long a possible."

In view of man's general reaction to death, his amazing potential for remembering and learning, and his inward longing for eternity, is it not clear that he was made to live in it? Indeed, God created humans, not with death as the natural outcome, but with the prospect of living on indefinitely. Note what God set before the first human pair as their future: "Be fruitful and become multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and every living creature that is moving upon the earth." (Genesis 1:28) What a wonderful, lasting future that is!


Continue:Next time: Myth 2: God takes people in death to be with him.

Relief From Stress-A Practical Remedy

"Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you."
Matthew 11:28


You would probably agree that too much stress is bad; It amounts to distress The Bible points out that all human creation is so weighed down with burdens that many anxiously await release from today's stressful life. (Romans 8:20-22) But the Scriptures also show how we can gain considerable relief from distress right now. That comes from following the advice and example of a young man who lived 20 centuries ago. He was a carpenter, yet his greater love was for people. He spoke to people's hearts, addressed their needs, helping the weak and consoling the depressed. Even more, he assisted many to reach their spiritual potential. They thus found relief from excess stress, even as you can.- Luke 4:16-21; 19:47, 48; John 7:46.

This man, Jesus of Nazareth, was not guided by the sophisticated learning that some sought in ancient Rome, Athens or Alexandria. Still, his teachings are renowned. They had a theme: the government by which God will successfully rule our earth. Jesus also explained basic principles for living - principles that are truly valuable today. Those who learn and apply what Jesus taught enjoy immediate benefits relief from excess stress. Would you not enjoy that?

You may have doubts. 'Can someone who lived so long ago be meaningful in my life now? ' Well, listen to Jesus' inviting words: " Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for your souls. For my yoke is kindly and my load is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) What did he mean? Let us examine these words in some detail and see how they open the way to relief from oppressive stress.

Jesus spoke to many who were desperately trying to do what was lawful but who were "loaded down" because the Jewish leaders made religion a burdensome thing. (Matthew 23:4) They focused on endless rules for virtually all aspects of life. Would you not find it stressful to keep hearing "you must not" do this or that? In contrast, Jesus' invitation was to truth, to righteousness, to a better life by listening to him. Yes, the way to know the true God involved paying attention to Jesus Christ, for in him, humans could - and can - see what Jehovah is like. Jesus said: "He that has seen me has seen the Father also." - John 14:9.

The Real Jesus And Your Future

Besides giving a real-life picture of Jesus while he was on earth, the Bible shows that he had a prehuman existence as the only begotten Son of God, "the first born of all creation." (Colossians 1:15 )Twenty centuries ago, God transferred the life of his heavenly Son to the womb of a Jewish virgin for him to be born as a human. (Matthew 1:18) During his earthly ministry, Jesus proclaimed God's Kingdom as the only hope for distressed humanity, and he trained his disciples to continue this preaching work. - Matthew 4:17; 10:5; 28:19, 20.

On Nisan 14 (about April 1), 33 C.E.,Jesus was arrested, tried, sentenced, and executed on the false charge of sedition. (Matthew 26:18-20,48-27:50)Jesus' death serves as a ransom, releasing believing mankind from their sinful state and thus opening the way to eternal life for all who exercise faith in him. (Romans 3:23. 24; 1John 2:2) On Nisan 16, Jesus was resurrected, and shortly thereafter he ascended back to heaven. (Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:6-9) As Jehovah's appointed King, the resurrected Jesus has full authority to carry out God's original purpose for man. (Isaiah 9:6, 7; Luke 1:32, 33) Yes, the Bible presents Jesus as the key figure in the outworking of God's purposes.

In the first century, multitudes accepted Jesus for what he was-the promisd Messiah, or Christ, sent to earth to vindicate Jehovah's sovereignty and to die as a ransom for mankind. (Matthew 20:28; Luke 2:25-32; John 17:25, 26; 18:37) In the face of fierce persecution, people would hardly have been motivated to become Jesus' disciples if they had been unsure of his identity. Courageously and zealously, they took up the commission he gave them to "make disciples of people of all the nations." - Matthew 28:19.

Today, millions of sincere and informed Christians know that Jesus is no legendary figure. They accept him as the enthroned King of God's established Kingdom in heaven, who is about to take full control of the earth and its affairs. This divine government is welcome news because it promises relief from world problems. True Christians manifest their loyal support of Jehovah's chosen King by declaring "this good news of the kingdom " to others. - Matthew 24:14.

Those who support the Kingdom arrangement through Christ, the Son of the living God , will live to enjoy eternal blessing. These blessings can be yours too! The publishers of this journal will be happy to help you know the real Jesus.

The Real Jesus

The Gospels- the four Biblical accounts of Jesus' life-portray a man of great empathy. Pity and compassion moved Jesus to help people who were suffering from illness, blindness and other afflictions (Matthew 9:36; 14:14; 20:34) The death of his friend Lazarus and the grief this caused to Lazarus' sisters moved Jesus to 'groan and give way to tears.' (John 11:32-36) In fact, the Gospels reveal the wide range of Jesus' feelings - sympathy for a person with leprosy, exuberance over his disciples' successes, indignation at coldhearted legalists, and sadness over Jerusalem's rejection of the Messiah.

When Jesus performed a miracle he often focused on the recipient's part in the process: " Your faith has made you well." (Matthew 9:22) He praised Nathanael as "a real Israelite," saying: "There is nothing false in him!" (John 1:47, Today's English Version) When some thought that a woman's appreciative gift was extravagant, Jesus defended her and said that the account of her generosity would be long remembered. (Matthew 26:6-13) He proved himself a real friend and affectionate companion to his followers, 'loving them to the end.' - John 13:1; 15:11-15.

The Gospels also show that Jesus quickly identified with most people that he met. Whether talking with a woman at a well, a religious teacher in a garden, or a fisherman by a lake, he went directly to their heart. After Jesus' opening words, many of these people revealed their innermost thoughts to him. He struck a responsive chord in them. Although people of his time might keep men in authority at a safe distance, in Jesus' case people crowded around him. They liked being with Jesus; they felt comfortable in is company. Children felt at ease with him, and when using a child as an example, he did not merely stand the child before his disciples but also "put his arms around it." ( Mark 9:36; 10:13-16) Indeed, the Gospels portray Jesus as a man who had such charisma that people stayed for three days just to listen to his absorbing words. - Matthew 15:32.

Jesus' perfection did not make him hypercritical or arrogant and overbearing toward the imperfect, sin-laden people among whom he lived and preached. (Matthew 9:10-13; 21:31, 32; Luke 7:36-48; 15:1-32; 18:9-14) Jesus was never demanding. He did not add to people's burdens. Instead, he said: "Come to me, all you who are toiling...I will refresh you." His disciples found him to be "mild tempered and lowly in heart:" His yoke was kindly, and his load was light. -Matthew 11:28-30.

Jesus' character comes through in the Gospel accounts with a decided ring of truth. It would not be easy for four different individuals to concoct an out - of -the-ordinary character and then present a consistent portrait of him throughout four distinct narratives. It would be nearly impossible for four different writers to describe the same person and consistently paint the same picture of him if that character never really existed.

Historian Michael Grant asks a thought-provoking question: "How comes it that, through all Gospel traditions without exception, there comes a remarkably firmly drawn portrait of an attractive young man moving freely about among women of all sorts, including the decidedly disreputable, without a trace of sentimentality, unnaturalness, or prudery, and yet, at every point, maintaining a simple integrity of character?" The reasonable answer is that such a man really existed and acted in the way the Bible says.


Continues-Next time: The Real Jesus And Your Future

In Search Of Jesus

What about non-Biblical references to Jesus Christ? How are they assessed? The works of Tacitus, Suetonius, Josephus, Pliny the Younger and a few other classical writers include numerous references to Jesus. Of them, The New Encyclopedia Britannica (1995) says: " These independant accounts prove that in ancient times even the opponents of Christianity never doubted the historicity of Jesus, which was disputed for the first time and on inadequate grounds at the end of the 18th, during the 19th, and at the beginning of the 20th centuries."

Sadly, modern scholars, in their quest for the "real" or "historical" Jesus, seem to have hidden his true identity behind layers of baseless speculation, pointless doubts, and unfounded theorizing. In a sense, they are guilty of the mythmaking of which they falsely accuse the Gospel writers. Some are so eager to feed their own reputation and to link their name to a startling new theory that they fail to examine honestly the evidence about Jesus. In the process, they create a "Jesus" that amounts to a figment of scholarly imagination.

For those who want to find him, the real Jesus can be found in the Bible. Luke Johnson professor of New Testament and Christian origins at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, argues that most research on the historical Jesus misses the Biblical objective. He says that it may be interesting to examine the social, political, anthropological, and cultural contexts of Jesus' life and era. Yet, he adds that discovering what scholars call the historical Jesus " is hardly the point of Scripture," which is "more concerned with describing the character of Jesus, " his message, and his role as Redeemer. So, what was Jesus' true Character and message?

Continued-Next time: The Real Jesus

Well-Founded Doubts?

But can we really have confidence in the Gospels' version of Jesus? Do they portray the real Jesus? The late Fredrick F. Bruce, professor of Biblical criticism and exegesis at the University of Manchester, England, stated: " It is not usually possible to demonstrate by historical arguments the truth of every detail in an ancient writing, whether inside or outside the Bible. It is sufficient to have reasonable confidence in a writer's general trustworthiness; if that is established, there is an a priori likelihood that his details are true... The New Testament is not less likely to be historically reliable because Christians receive it as 'sacred' literature."

After examining doubts about Jesus as portrayed in the Gospels, James R.Edwards, professor of religion at Jamestown College, North Dakota, U.S.A., wrote: " We may affirm with confidence that the Gospels preserve a diverse and significant body of evidence of the actual truth about Jesus.....The most reasonable answer to the question why the Gospels present Jesus as they do is because that is essentially who Jesus was. The Gospels faithfully preserve the memory that he left on his followers, that he was divinely legitimated and empowered to be God's Son and Servant."

The Real Jesus

After learning from his apostles what people thought about him, Jesus asked them: " You though, who do you say I am?" The Gospel of Matthew records the apostle Peter's answer: " You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." (Matthew 16:15, 16) Others were of the same opinion. Nathanael, who later became one of the apostles, told Jesus: "Rabbi, you are the Son of God, you are King of Israel." (John 1:49) Jesus himself spoke of the importance of his role: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) On various occasions, he referred to himself as "the Son of God." (John 5:24, 25; 11:4) And he backed up this claim by miraculous works, even raising the dead.

Continue-Next time: Well-Founded Doubts?

Blessings For All Nations

Abraham and Sarah were exemplary in enduring tests and in exercising faith in God's promises. The fulfillment of such promises has a bearing on mankind's eternal prospects, for Jehovah assured Abraham: "By means of your seed all nations of the earth will certainly bless themselves due to the fact that you have listened to my voice." - Genesis 22:18.
Of course, Abraham and Sarah were imperfect, even as we are. When God's will became clear to them, however, they promptly complied with it - regardless of the cost. Abraham is thus remembered as "Jehovah's friend" and Sarah as a 'holy woman who was hoping in God.' (James 2:23; 1Peter 3:5) By striving to imitate the faith of Abraham and Sarah, we too can enjoy precious intimacy with God. We can also benefit from the precious promises Jehovah made to Abraham. - Genesis 17:7.

Implicit Trust In God's Promises

Jehovah identified Isaac as the long awaited heir. (Genesis 21:12) So Abraham must have been stunned when God asked him to sacrifice his son. Yet, Abraham had sound reasons to trust God implicitly. Was Jehovah not able to raise Isaac from the dead? (Hebrews 11:17-19) Had God not proved his power by miraculously reviving the reproductive powers of Abraham and Sarah in order to bring about Isaac's birth in the first place? Convinced of God's ability to fulfill his promises, Abraham was ready to obey. True, he was prevented from actually slaying his son. (Genesis 22:1-4) Nevertheless, the role Abraham played in this regard helps us to see how difficult it must have been for Jehovah God to 'give his only begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.' - John 3:16; Matthew 20:28.

Faith in God made it plain to Abraham that the heir to Jehovah's promises could not marry a false worshiper of the land of Canaan. How could a godly parent approve of his child's marriage to anyone not serving Jehovah? Abraham thus sought a suitable wife for Isaac among his relatives in Mesopotamia, more than 500 miles away. God blessed that endeavor by indicating that Rebekah was the woman he had chosen to become Isaac's bride and ancestress of Messiah. Yes, Jehovah "blessed Abraham in everything." - Genesis 24:1-67; Matthew 1:1, 2.



Next time: Blessings For All Nations

Nothing Is "Too Extraordinary For Jehovah"

In due course, Hagar did bear Abraham a son named Ismael. Yet, he was not the promised Seed. Sarah herself was to give birth to that heir, despite her advanced age. - Genesis 17:15, 16.

When God specified that Sarah would bear her husband a son, " Abraham fell upon his face and began to laugh and to say in his heart: 'Will a man a hundred years old have a child born, and will Sarah, yes, will a woman ninety years old give birth?' " (Genesis 17:17) An angel's repetition of the message within earshot of Sarah caused her to "laugh inside herself." But nothing is "too extraordinary for Jehovah." We can have faith that he can do anything he wills. - Genesis 18:12-14.
It was "by faith [that ]Sarah herself received power to conceive seed, even when she was past the age limit, since she esteemed him faithful who had promised." (Hebrews 11:11) In time, Sarah gave birth to Isaac, whose name means "Laughter."


Continued -Next time: Implicit Trust in God's Promises

Who Would Be Abraham's Heir?

Despite promises of a seed, Sarah remained barren. Abraham presented the matter to God. Would his servant Eliezer inherit all that he owned? No, for Jehovah said: " This man will not succeed you as heir, but one who will come out of your own inward parts will succeed you as heir." - Genesis 15:1-4.

Still there was no child, and the 75 year-old Sarah despaired of conceiving. Hence, she said to Abraham: "Jehovah has shut me off from bearing children. Please, have relations with my maidservant. Perhaps I may get children from her." Abraham then took Hagar as a secondary wife, had relations with her, and she became pregnant. As soon as Hagar realized she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress. Sarah complained bitterly to Abraham and humilated Hagar, causing the maidservant to flee. - Genesis 16:1-6.

Abraham and Sarah acted in good faith, adopting a course that accorded with accepted practices of their day. However, it was not Jehovah's way of producing Abraham's seed. Our culture might dictate that certain actions are right under various circumstances, but this does not necessarily mean that Jehovah agrees. His view of our situation might be entirely different. Hence, we need to ask God's direction, praying that he indicated the way he wants us to act. - Psalm 25:4, 5; 143:8, 10.



Continued-Next time: Nothing is "Too Extraordinary For Jehovah"

Abraham Sought Peace

Events in Abraham's life reveal that Abraham had a godly personality. Instead of allowing a quarrel to continue between his herders and those of his nephew Lot, Abraham suggested separating their camps and invited the younger man Lot to choose the land he preferred. Abraham was a peace-maker. - Genesis 13:5-13.

If we ever have to choose between insisting on our rights or making concessions to preserve peace, we might note that Jehovah did not let Abraham suffer because he showed consideration for Lot. On the contrary, God thereafter promised Abraham and his seed all the land Abraham could see in every direction. (Genesis 13:14-17) "Haapy are the peaceable ["peacemakers,"footnote]," said Jesus, "since they will be called 'sons of God.'" - Matthew 5:9.



Continue-Next time: Who Would Be Abraham's Heir?

Spiritual And Material Riches

After Abraham reached Canaan, God told him: " To your seed I am going to give this land." Abrahan responded by building an altar to Jehovah and by calling "on the name of Jehovah." (Genesis 12:7, 8) Jehovah made Abraham rich, and those in his encampment were great in number. Since he once mustered 318 trained men, slaves born in his household, it has been suggested that "his total group must have numbered well over a thousand." For whatever reason, people regarded him as "a chieftain of God." - Genesis 13:2; 14:14; 23:6.

Abraham took the lead in worship, teaching those of his household to "keep Jehovah's way to do righteousness and judgment." (Genesis 18:19) Present-day Christian family heads can draw encouragement from Abraham's example as a person who succeeded in teaching members of his household to rely on Jehovah and act in a righteous way. It is therefore not surprising that Sarah's Egyptian maidservant Hagar, the patriarch's eldest servant, and Abraham's son Isaac relied on Jehovah God. - Genesis 16:5, 13; 24:10-14; 25:21.


Continued-Next time: Abraham Sought Peace

Abraham And Sarah-You Can Imitate Their Faith

He is called "the father of all those having faith." (Romans 4:11) His beloved wife also possessed that quality. (Hebrews 11:11) They were the godly patriarch Abraham and his devout wife, Sarah. Why were they such fine examples of faith? What were some of the trials they endured? And of what value is their story to us?

Abraham manifested faith when God commanded him to leave his home. Jehovah said: " Go your way out of your country and from your relatives and from the house of your father to the country that I shall show you." (Genesis 12:1) The faithful patriarch obeyed, for we are told: "By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed in going out into a place he was destined to receive as an inheritance; and he went out, although not knowing where he was going." (Hebrews 11:8) Consider what that move meant.

Abraham lived in Ur, in what is now southern Iraq. Ur was a thriving Mesopotamian center that traded with lands of the Persian Gulf and likely the Indus Valley. Sir Leonard Woolley, who directed the systematic excavation of Ur, points out that in Abraham's time most houses there were built of brick, with plastered and whitewashed walls. For instance, the home of one prosperous citizen was a two-story building with a paved central courtyard. The ground floor housed domestics and guests. At the first-floor level, a wooden gallery ran around the wall, providing access to rooms reserved for family use. With their 10 to 20 rooms, such residences were "comparatively spacious and afforded scope for a life decent, comfortable and, by Eastern standards, luxurious," says Woolley. They were "pre-eminently the homes of a civilized people and answered to the needs of a highly developed urban life." If Abraham and Sarah left such a home with the prospect of dwelling in tents, they made great sacrifices to obey Jehovah.

Abraham's move took his family first to harran, a city in northern Mesopotamia and then on into Canaan. That was a distance of some 1,000 miles - quite a move for an elderly couple! On leaving Harran, Abraham was 75 years of age and Sarah was 65. - Genesis 12:4.

How might Sarah have felt when Abraham revealed that they were going to leave Ur? Leaving the security of a pleasant home, moving to some strange and potentially hostile land, and accepting a lower standard of living might have concerned her. Nevertheless, Sarah was submissive, thinking of Abraham as her "lord." (1Peter 3:5, 6) Some scholars consider this a manifestation of Sarah's "customary, respectful attitude and behavior toward him," evidence of "real habits of thought and feeling." But above all, Sarah trusted in Jehovah. Her submission and faith stand as a fine example for Christian wives.

True, we are not asked to abandon our home to obey God, although some full-time evangelizers have left their homeland in order to preach the good news in another country. Regardless of where we serve God, as long as we put spiritual interests first in life, he will care for our needs. - Matthew 6:25-33.

Neither Sarah nor Abraham regretted the decision they made. "If they had indeed kept remembering that place from which they had gone forth, they would have had opportunity to return," says the Apostle Paul. But they did not return. Confident that Jehovah "becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him," they exercised faith in his promises. So must we if we are to continue to render wholesouled devotion to Jehovah.- Hebrews 11:6, 15, 16.

Jehovah Rewards Those Who Care

Caring for older ones results in many blessings. Associating with the elderly and being able to draw on their knowledge and experience is a privilege. Caregivers experience the greater happiness that comes from giving, as well as a sense of accomplishemnt and inner peace from having fulfilled their Scriptual responsibility. (Acts 20:35) Moreover, those who care for the elderly need not fear that they themselves will be abandoned in their later years. God's Word assures us: " The generous soul will itself be made fat, and the one freely watering others will himself also be freely watered." - Proverbs 11:25.

Jehovah rewards God-fearing children, overseers, and other caring Christians for unselfishly tending to the needs of elderly fellow believers. Such a spirit is in line with this proverb: " He that is showing favor to the lowly one is lending to Jehovah, and his treatment he will repay to him." (Proverbs 19:17) If love prompts us to show favor to the lowly and the poor, God considers such giving to be a loan that he repays with blesssings. He also repays us for giving loving care to our eldery fellow worshipers, many of whom are 'poor respecting the world but rich in faith.' - James 2:5.

How generous God's repayment is! It includes everlasting life. For the vast majority of Jehovah's servants, that will be life eternal on a paradise earth, where the effects of inherited sin will be eliminated and faithful elderly ones will enjoy the restoration of their youthful vigor. (Revelation 21:3-5) While we await that blessed time, may we continue to fulfill our Christian responsibility to care for the elderly.

Caring For One Another

It is not only children with aged parents and appointed servants who should be concerned about the elderly. Comparing the Christian congregation to the human body, Paul wrote: " God compounded the body giving honor more abundant to the part which had a lack, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its members should have the same care for one another." (1Corinthians 12:24, 25) Another translation reads: " All the different parts of [the body are] to make each other's welfare their common care." For the Christian congregation to function harmoniously, each member must be concerned about the well-being of his fellow believers, including the elderly. - Galatians 6:2.

Christian meetings afford a fine opportuntiy to show our interest in the elderly. (Philippians 2:4; Hebrews10:24, 25) Do we take time to converse with older ones on such occasions? While it may be appropriate to inquire about the physical well-being, could we " impart some spiritual gift," perhaps by sharing an upbuilding experience or a Scriptual thought? SInce some older ones have limited mobility, it would be kind to go to them rather than expect them to come to us. If hearing is a problem, we may need to speak slowly and enunciate clearly. And if there is to be a true " interchange of encouragement," we must listen attentively to what the older person says. - Romans 1:11, 12.

What if certain older ones cannot attend Christian meetings? James 1:27 shows that it is our duty "to look after orphans and widows in their tribulation." One meaning of the Greet verb translated "to look after" is " to visit." (Acts 15:36) And how the elderly appreciated our visits! While imprisoned in Rome about 65 C.E. the "aged man" Paul found himself practically alone. He longed to see his fellow worker Timothy and wrote: "Do your utmost to come to me shortly." (Philemon 9; 2 Timothy 1:3, 4; 4:9) Although they are not literally prisoners, some elderly ones are housebound because of health problems. In effect, they may be saying, 'Please do your best to visit me soon.' Are we responding to such appeals?

Never underestimate the beneficial effects of visiting an elerly spiritual brother or sister. When a Christian named Onesiphorus was in Rome, he diligently looked for Paul, found him and thereafter 'often brought him refreshment.' (2 Timothy 1:16,17) "I love spending time with younger ones," says one elderly sister. "What I like most is that they treat me like a member of their family, it lifts my spirits." Another older Christian states: " I really appreciate it when someone sends me a card, calls me on the phone for just a few minutes, or visits me for awhile. It is like a breath of fresh air."


Continue-Next time: Jehovah Rewards Those Who Care.

How Elders Show That They Care

Near the end of his long life, Jacob referred to the true God who has been shepherding me during all my existence until this day." (Genesis 48:15) Today, Jehovah shepherds his earthly servants by means of Christian overseers, or elders, under the direction of his Son,Jesus Christ, "the chief shepherd." (1Peter 5:2-4) How can overseers imitate Jehovah as they care for the older members of the flock?

Shortly after the inception of the Christian congregation, the apostles appointed "seven certified men...full of spirit and wisdom" to supervise "the daily distribution" of food among needy christian widows. (Acts 6:1-6) Later, Paul instructed the overseer Timothy to put exemplary aged widows on the list of those who were entitled to receive material help. (1Timothy 5:3, 9, 10) Likewise, congregation overseers today willingly coordinate practical assistance for elderly Christians when this is necessary. However, more is involved in caring for faithful older ones.

Near the end of his earthly ministry, Jesus sat down at the temple and "began observing how the crowd was dropping money into the treasury chests." Then someone caught his attention. Says the account: "A poor widow dropped in two small coins, which have very little value." Jesus called his disciples to him and told them: "Truly I say to you that this poor widow dropped in more than all those dropping money into the treasury chests; for they all dropped in out of their surplus, but she, out of her want, dropped in all of what she had, her whole living." (Mark12:41-44) in monetary terms, the widow's contribution was small, but Jesus knew how much his his heavenly Father values such whole-souled expressions of devotion. Regardless of the poor widow's age, Jesus did not overlook what she did.

Like Jesus, Christian overseers do not overlook what the elderly do to promote true worship. Elders have reason to commend older ones for their share in the ministry, for their participation in meetings, for their positive influence in the congregation, and for their endurance. A sincere word of encouragement can help the elderly find "cause for exultation" in their sacred service, thus avoiding frustrating commparisons with what other Christians are able to do or with their own past accomplishments. - Galatians 6:4.

Elders can acknowledge the valuable contribution made by older Christians by drawing on their experience and talents. Exemplary elderly ones may occasionally be used in demonstrations or interviews. " The audience really sits up and listens when I interview an older brother or sister who has reared children in the truth," observes one elder. Elders in another congregation report that a 70-year old pioneer sister has been successful in helping Kingdom publishers to become regular in field service. She also encourages them to do the "basics," such as reading the Bible and the daily text and then meditating on what they read.

Elders also value the contribution of older fellow overseers. Jose. "instead of accepting my suggestion, they asked what practical help I needed in order to continue caring for my responsibilities." With the assistance of a younger elder, Jose was able to continue serving joyfully as presiding overseer, and this has been a blessing to the congregation. A fellow elder states: "The brothers greatly appreciate Jose's work as an elder. They love and respect him for his experience and example of faith. He enriches our congregation."


Continued-Next time: Caring For One Another

Our Responsibility As Children

"Honor your father and your mother." (Ephesians 6:2; Exodus 20:12) With this simple yet profound quotation from the Hebrew Scriptures, the apostle Paul reminded children of the responsibility they have toward their parents. But how do these words apply to caring for the elderly? A heartwarming example from pre-Christian times will help us answer this question.

For more than 20 years, Joseph had no contact with his elderly father, the patriarch Jacob. However, Joseph had evidently not lost his filial love for Jacob. In fact, when Joseph revealed his true identity to his brothers, he asked: " Is my father still alive?" (Genesis 43:7, 27; 45:3) At that time, the land of Canaan was in the grip of famine. Thus Joseph sent word to his father, saying: "Come down to me. Do not delay. And you must dwell in the land of Goshen, and you must continue near me... And I will supply you with food there." (Genesis 45:9-11; 47:12) Yes, honoring aged parents includes protecting them and providing for them materially when they are not in a position to care for themselves. (1 Samuel 22:1-4; John 19:25-27) Joseph gladly accepted this responsibility.

With Jehovah's blessing, Joseph had become one of Egypt's richest and most powerful men. (Genesis 41:40) But he did not consider himself too important or too busy to honor his 130-year-old father. On learning that Jacob (or Israel) was approaching , "Joseph had his chariot made ready and went up to meet Israel his father at Goshen. When he appeared to him he at once fell upon his neck and gave way to tears upon his neck again and again.." ( Genesis 46:28, 29) This welcome was much more than a formal show of respect. Joseph dearly loved his elderly father and was not ashamed to demonstrate his love. If we have aging parent, are we similarly unstinting in our expressions of affection for them?

Jacob's devotion to Jehovah remained strong to the end of his life. (Hebrews 11:21) Because of his faith in divine promises, Jacob asked that his remains be buried in Canaan. Joseph honored his father by complying with this request, despite the considerable cost and effort involved. - Genesis 47:29-31; 50:7-14.

What motivated Joseph to care for his father? While love and a sense of indebtedness to the one who had given him life and who had nurtured him were factors, Joseph no doubt also felt a keen desire to please Jehovah. So should we. Paul wrote: "If any widow has children or grandchildren, let these learn first to practice godly devotion in their own household and to keep paying a due compensation to their parents and grandparents, for this is acceptable in God's sight." (1Timothy 5:4) Indeed, love for Jehovah and reverential fear of him will move us to care for aging parents, no matter what challenges doing so may involve."


Continued-Next time: How Elders Show That They Care

Caring For The Elderly - A Christian Responsibility

Devoted parents nurture their children through infancy, childhood and the teenage years. Even when young people reach adulthood and have their own families, their fathers and mothers continue to give them loving attention and support.

Although there is a limit to what humans can do for their children, our heavenly Father is always able to give his faithful servants loving attention and support. Addressing his chosen people of ancient times, Jehovah stated: "Even to one's old age I am the same one; and to one's gray-headedness I myself shall keep bearing up." (Isaiah 46:4) What reassuring words these are for older Christians! Jehovah does not abandon those who remain loyal to him. Rather, he promises to sustain, support, and guide them throughout their lives, even into old age. - Psalm 48:14.

How can we imitate Jehovah's loving concern for the elderly? (Ephesians 5:1, 2) Let us consider ways in which children, congregation overseers, and individual Christians can care for the needs of senior members of our worldwide brotherhood.


Cotinue- Next time: Our Responsibility As Children

Jehovah Treasures Faithful Older Ones

Today's world, characterized by a lack of gratitude, has little time for the elderly. (2Timothy 3:1, 2) When they are remembered, it is often because of their past achievements-what they were, rather than what they are. In contrast, the Bible says: "God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name, in that you have ministered to the holy ones and continue ministering." (Hebrews 6:10) Of course Jehovah God remembers your past record of faithful works. But he also values you for what you continue to do in his service. Yes, he views faithful older ones as fruitful, spiritually healthy and vigorous Christians - a living testimony to his power. - Philippians 4:13.

Do you view the older members of our Christian brotherhood as Jehovah views them? If you do, you will be moved to show your love for them. (1John 3:18) The next article will consider some practical ways to show such love in caring for their needs.


Continued-Next time: Caring For The Elderly -A Christian Responsibility

"Tell That Jehovah Is Upright"

Older servants of God joyfully discharge their responsibility "to tell that Jehovah is upright." If you are an elderly Christian, your words and deeds can show others that 'Jehovah is your Rock,in whom there is no unrighteousness.' (Psalm 92:15) The palm tree bears silent witness to its Creator's superlative qualities. But Jehovah has given you the privilege of testifying about him to those now embracing true worship. (Deuteronomy 32:7; Psalm 71:17, 18; Joel 1:2, 3) Why is this important?

When the Israelite leader Joshua was "old and advanced in days," he "proceeded to call all Israel, its older men and its heads and its judges and its officers," and to remind them of God's upright dealings. He said: "Not one word out of all the good words that Jehovah your God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you." (Joshua 23:1, 2, 14) For a time, these words strengthened the people's resolve to remain faithful. After Joshua's death, however, "another generation began to rise...that did not know Jehovah or the work that he had done for Israel. And the sons of Israel fell to doing what was bad in the eyes of Jehovah and serving the Baals." Judges 2:8-11.

The integrity of the present-day Christian congregation does not depend upon the oral testimony of older servants of God. Yet, our faith in Jehovah and his promises is reinforced when we hear firsthand accounts of the "great work" that he has performed for his people in these last days. (Judges 2:7; 2Peter 1:16-19) If you have been associated with Jehovah's organization for many years, you may recall the time when there were very few Kingdom proclaimers in your region or country or when the preaching work faced stiff opposition. Over time, you have seen Jehovah remove certain obstacles and 'speed up' Kingdom growth. (Isaiah 54:17; 60:22) You have noted the clarification of Bible truths and have witnessed the progressive refinement of the visible part of God's organization. (Proverbs 4:18; Isaiah 60:17) Do you seek to build others up by sharing with them your experience relating to Jehovah's upright dealings? What a positive and strengthening effect this can have on the Christian brotherhood!

What about the occasions when you have experienced Jehovah's loving care and guidance in your personal life? (Psalm 37:25; Matthew 6:33; 1Peter5:7) An elderly sister named Martha use to encourage others by saying: "No matter what happens, never abandon Jehovah. He will sustain you." This advice had profound effect on Tolmina, one of Martha's Bible students who was baptized in the early 1960's. "When my husband died," recalls Tolmina, "I felt very discouraged, but those words made me determined not to miss a single meeting. And Jehovah really did strenghten me to continue." Tolmina has given the same advice to many of her own Bible students over the years. Indeed, by offering encouragement and recounting Jehovah's upright dealings, you can do much to build up the faith of fellow believers.


Continued-Next time: Jehovah Treasures Faithful Older Ones

"Fat And Fresh They will Continue To Be"

Calling attention to the fruitfulness of elderly servants of Jehovah, the psalmist sang: "The righteous himself will blossom forth as a palm tree does; as a cedar in Lebanon does, he will grow big. They will keep on thriving during gray-headedness, fat and fresh they will continue to be." - Psalm 92:12, 14.

"How can you retain your spiritual vigor despite advancing years? The secret of the palm tree's perennial beauty lies in an unfailing source of fresh water. Likewise, you can draw sustenance from the waters of Bible truth by your study of God's Word and by association with his organization. (Psalm 1:1-3; Jeremiah 17:7, 8) Your spiritual vitality makes you a precious asset to fellow believers. Consider how this proved true in the case of elderly High Priest Jehoiada.

Jehoiada was probably over a hundred years old when ambitious Queen Athaliah seized control of Judah by murdering her own grandchildren. What could elderly Jehoiada do? For six years he and his wife hid the only surviving royal heir, Jehoash, in the temple. Then, in a dramatic move, Jehoiada proclaimed seven-year-old Johash king and had Athaliah executed. - 2 Chronicles 22:10-12; 23:1-3, 15, 21.

As the king's guardian, Jehoiada used his influence to promote true worship. He "concluded a convenant between himself and all the people and the king that they would continue as the people of Jehovah." At Jehoiada's orders, the people tore down the house of the false god Baal and removed its altars, images, and priest. It was also under Jehoiada's guidance that Jehoash restored temple services and carried out much-needed temple repair work. "Jehoash continued doing what was right in Jehovah's eyes all the days of his that Jehoiada the priest instructed him." (2 Chronicles 23:11, 16-19; 24:11-14; 2Kings 12:2) When he died at the age of 130, Jehoiada was given the exceptional honor of burial with the kings because "he had done good in Israel and with the true God and His house." - 2 Chronicles 24:15, 16.

Perhaps poor health or other circumstances limit what you can do to promote true worship. Even if that is so, it is within your power to 'do good with the true God and his house.' You can display zeal for Jehovah's spiritual house by attending and participating in congregation meetings and by sharing in the field ministry whenever possible. Your ready exceptance of the Bible's counsel and your loyal support for "the faithful and discreet slave" and the congregation will have a strengthening effect on the Christian brotherhood. (Matthew 24:45-47) You can also incite fellow worshippers "to love and fine works." (Hebrew 10:24, 25; Philemon 8,9) And you will be a blessing to others if you act in harmony with the apostle Paul's counsel: "Let the aged men be moderate in habits, serious, sound in mind, healthy [vigorous," And American Translation] in faith, in love, in endurance. Likewise let the aged women be reverent in behavior, not slanderous, neither enslaved to a lot of wine, teachers of what is good." - Titus 2:2-4.

Have you served as a congregation elder for many years? "Use the wisdom that comes with advancing years unselfishly," is the advice of one longtime congregation elder. "delegate responsibility, and share your experience with others who have a willing spirit...See the potential in others. Develop and nurture it. Build for the future." (Deuteronomy 3:27, 28 ) Your genuine interest in the ever-expanding KIngdom work will result in many blessings for others in our Christian brotherhood.



Continued-Next time: "Tell That Jehovah Is Upright"

• Thriving During Gray-Headedness
  
  The Psalmist likens the righteous to palm trees 'planted in the courtyards of our God.' They " keep on thriving during gray-headedness." Another version reads: " In old age they still produce fruit." (Tanakh) Do you not agree that this is an encouraging thought? Graceful, upright palm trees were a common sight in Oriental courtyards in Bible times. In addition to their decorative value, palms were prized for their abundant fruit, with some trees continuing productive for over a hundred years." By remaining firmly planted in true worship, you can similarly "go on bearing fruit in every good word." - Collosians 1:10.
  
  Jehovah expects Christians to produce "the fruit of lips" - words spoken in praise of him and his purposes. (Hebrews 13:15) Does this apply to you as an older person? It certainly does.
  
  The Bible contains examples of older ones who fearlessly bore witness to Jehovah's name and purposes. Moses had already exceeded his "seventy years" when Jehovha commissioned him as his prophet and representative. (Psalm 90:10; Exodus 4:10-17. Advanced age did not prevent the prophet Daniel from giving a feaarless witness regarding Jehovah's sovereignty. Daniel was probably in his 90's when Belshazzar summoned him to interpret the mysterious handwriting on the wall. (Daniel, chapter 5) And what about the aged apostle John? Toward the end of his long career, he found himself imprisioned on the isle of Patmos "for speaking about God and bearing witness to Jesus." (Revelation 1:9) Very likely you can remember many other Bible characters who produced "the fruit of lips" in their later years. - 1Samuel8:1, 10; 12:2; 1Kings 14:4, 5; Luke1:7, 97-79; 2:22-32.
  
  Quoting the Hebrew prophet Joel, the apostle Peter declared: "' 'In the last days,' God says, 'I shall pour out some of my spirit upon every sort of flesh [including "old men"],...and they will prophesy.' " (Acts 2:17, 18; Joel 2:28) Accordingly, in these last days, Jehovah has uses elderly members of the anointed class and of the "other sheep" to declare his purposes. (John 10:16) Some of these have faithfully been producing Kingdom fruitage for decades.
  
  Consider Sonia, who became a full-time Kingdom publisheer in 1941. Despite a long struggle with chronic illness, she regularly conducted Bible studies in her home. "Preaching the good news is part of my life,"explained Sonia. "Actually, it is my life. I refuse to retire." Not long ago, Sonia and her sister, Olive, shared the Bible's message of hope with Janet, a terminally ill patient whom they met in a hospital waiting room. Janet's mother, a devout Catholic, was so impressed by this loving interest shown to her daughter that she accepted the offer of a home Bible study and is now making excellent progress. Could you seize similar opportunities to produce Kingdom fruitage?
  
  By courageously pressing on in the Kingdom-preaching work despite the limitations of advancing years, older Christians are following in the footsteps of the faithful Israelite Caleb, who accompanied Moses in the wilderness for four decades. Caleb was 79 years old when he crossed the Jordan River into the promised land. After fighting in the ranks of Israel's victorious army for six years, he could have rested on his laurels. But no, he courageously requested the challenging assignment of capturing the "great fortified cities" in the mountainous region of Judah, an area inhabited by the Anakim, men of unusual size. With Jehovah's help, Caleb did "dispossess them, just as Jehovah promised." (Joshua 14:9-14; 15:13, 14) Be assured that Jehovah is with you, as he was with Caleb, as you continue producing Kingdom fruitage inold age. And if you remain faithful, he will grant you a place in is promised new world. - Isaiah 40:29-31; 2Peter 3:13.

Today instead of doing what I had mentioned in my last blog, I decided to write something that Andy Rooney said on "60 Minutes" a few weeks back and I agree with him. Here is what he said:

I don't think being a minority makes you a victim of anything except numbers. The only things I can think of that are truly discriminatory are things like the United Negro College Fund, Jet Magazine, Black Entertainment Television and Miss Black America. Try to have things like the United Causian College Fund, Cloud Magazine, White Entertainment Television, Or Miss White America; and see what happens...Jesse Jackson will be knocking down your door.

I believe they are called the Boy Scouts for a reason.....that is why there are no girls allowed....Girls belong in the Girl Scouts! Are you listening Martha Burke?

I think if you feel homosexuality is wrong, it is not a phobia, it is an opinion.

When 70% of the people who get arrested are black where cities are 70% of the population is black, that is not a racial profiling, it is the Law of Probability.

I believe that if you are selling me a milkshake, a pack of cigarettes, a newspaper or a hotel room, you must do it in English! As a matter of fact, if you want to be an American citizen, you should have to speak English!

My father and grandfather didn't die in vain so you can leave the countries you were born in to come over an disrespect ours. I think the police should have every right to shoot your sorry ass if you threaten them after they tell you to stop. If you can't understand the word "freeze" or "stop" in English, see the above lines.

I don't think just because you were not born in this country, you are qualified for any special loan programs, government sponsored bank loans or taz breaks, etc........ so you can open a hotel, coffee shop, trinket store or any other business.

We did not go to the aid of certain foreign countries and risk our livess in wars to defend their freedoms, so that decades later they could come over here and tell us our constitution is a living document; and open to their interpretations.

I don't hate the rich. I don't pity the poor.

I know pro-wrestling is a fake, but so are the movies and television. That doesn't stop you from watching them.

I think Bill Gates has every right to keep every penny he made and continue to make more. If it ticks you off, go and invent the next operating system that's better, and put your name on the building.

It doesn't take a whole village to raise a child right, but it does take a parent to stand up to the kid; and smack their little behind when necessary, and say "NO!"

I think tattoos and piercing are fine if you want them, but please don't pretend they are a political statement. And please, stay home until that new lip ring heals. I don't want to look at your ugly infected mouth as you serve me french fries!

I am sick of "Political Correctness." I know a lot of black people, and not a single one of them was born in Africa; so how can they be "African-Americans?" Besides, Africa is a continent. I don't go around saying I am a "European-American because my great, great,great, great, great, great, grandfather was from Europe. I am proud to be from America and nowhere else.

And if you don't like my point of view, tough....

Elderly Ones -Valuable Members Of Our Christian Brotherhood

Jehovah loves all his faithful servants, including those of advanced years. According to a national estimate, however, every year nearly half a million elderly people in the United States suffer abuse or neglect. Similar reports from around the world indicate that abuse of the elderly is a global problem. At its root is what one organization calls "the pervading attitude among many people......that older persons have outlive their usefulness, are unproductive and over-dependent."

Jehovah God treasures his loyal elderly servants. He focuses on "the man we are inside" - our spiritual condition - rather than on our physical limitations. (2 Corinthians 4:16) In his Word, the Bible, we find the following heartwarming assurance: "the righteous himself will blossom forth as a palm tree does; as a cedar in Lebanon does, he will grow big. Those who are planted in the house of Jehovah, in the courtyards of our God, they will blossom forth. They will still keep on thriving during gray-headedness, fat and fresh they will continue to be, to tell that Jehovah is upright." (Psalm 92:12-15) A consideration of these verses will reveal aspects of the valuable contribution you older ones can make to the Christian brotherhood.


Continued - Next time: "Thriving During Gray - Headedness"

Why Does The Bible Describe God In Human Terms?

Since "God is a Spirit," we cannot see him with our physical eyes. (John 4:24) The Bible therefore uses figures of speech, such as smiles, metaphors and anthropomorphisms to help us comprehend God's might, majesty, and activities. Anthropomorphism (Greek, "manform") is the attributing of human characteristics to a nonhuman subject. So even though we do not know what God's spirit body looks like, the Bible speaks of God as having eyes, ears, hands, arms,fingers, feet and a heart. - Genesis 8:21; Exodus 3:20; 31:18; Job 40:9; Psalm 18:9; 34:15. Such descriptive language does not mean that God's spirit body has the same kind of members that human bodies have. Anthropomorphisms are not to be taken literally. They merely help humans to have a better understanding of God. Without such figures of speech, it would be difficult, if not imposssible, for any of God to be comprehensible to mere humans. However, that does not mean that Jehovah God's personality has been fabricated by humans. The Bible clearly explains that man was created in God's image - not God in man's image. (Genesis 1:27) Because Bible writers are "inspired of God," their depiction of God's personality is in reality his own description of his personal qualities -the very qualities that he has implanted to varying degrees in his human creation. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) Rather than being man's qualities in God they are really God's qualities in man.

Seek God's Approval

God's "intimacy is with the upright ones." Those "blameless in their way are a pleasure to him." (Proverbs 3:32; 11:20) On the contrary, those who persist in offending God by stubbornly ignoring or defying his righteous feelings will shortly become the objects of his displeasure. (2Thessalonians 1:6-10) Indeed, he will soon bring an end to all the wickedness so prevalent today. -Psalm 37:9-11; Zephaniah 2:2, 3.

The Bible makes it very clear, however, that Jehovah "does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) He would much rather display his affection for righteous people who love him than express his displeasure upon those who choose to be irreformable. Jehovah finds pleasure, "not in the death of the wicked one, but in that someone wicked turns back from his way and actually keeps living." - Ezekiel 33:11.

So no one needs to become the object of Jehovah's anger. "Jehovah is very tender in affection and merciful." (James 5:11) With full confidence in God's feelings, you can "throw all anxiety upon him, because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7) Be assured that those who make God's heart rejoice have the wonderful prospect of enjoying his approval and friendship. Hence, it is now more urgent than ever before to "keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord." - Ephesians 5:10.

How marvelous that God in his undeserved kindness has revealed his glorious qualities and feelings! And it is within your power to make his heart rejoice.


Continue-Next time: Why Does The Bible Describe God In Human Terms?

Do Not Make God Feel Hurt

An example of how Jehovah's feelings can be hurt is found in the account about the days of Noah. At that time, "the earth became filled with violence. So God saw the earth and, look! It was ruined, because all flesh had ruined its way on the earth." How did God feel as he surveyed the depravity and the violence? "Jehovah felt regrets that he had made men in the earth," says the Bible, "and he felt hurt at his heart." (Genesis 6:5, 6, 11, 12) God felt regrets in that the conduct of humans had become so evil that he had a change of attitude as regards the wicked pre-flood generation. Because of his displeasure over their wickedness, God turned from the attitude of the Creator of humans to that of a destroyer of them.

Jehovah also felt distressed when his own people, the ancient nation of Israel, persistently ignored his feelings and his loving direction. The psalmist lamented: "How often they would rebel against him in the wilderness, they would make him feel hurt in the desert! And again and again they would put God to the test, and they pained even the Holy One of Israel." Yet, "he was merciful; he would cover the error and not bring ruin. And many times he made his anger turn back, and he would not rouse up all his rage." (Psalm 78:38-41) Even though the rebellious Israelites rightly suffered the consequences of their own sinfulness, the Bible tells us that "during all their distress it was distressing to [God]." - Isiah 63:9.

Regardless of the ample evidence of God's tender feelings for them, the people of Israel "were continually making jest at the messengers of the true God and despising his words and mocking at his prophets, utnil the rage of Jehovah came up against his people, until there was no healing." (2 Chronicles 36:16) Ultimately, their stiff-necked pattern of rebellion " made his holy spirit feel hurt" to such and extent that they lost Jehovah's favor. (Isaiah 63:10) The result? God justly withdrew his protection, and calamity befell them when the Babylonians conquered Judah and destroyed Jerusalem. (2Chronicles 36:17-21) How sad when people choose to pursue a sinful course of life that is offensive an distressing to their Creator!

The Bible leaves us in no doubt that God is deeply pained by unrighteous conduct. (Psalm 78:41) Things that are offensive-even detestable-to God include pride, lying, murder, practicing magic, fortune telling, ancestor worship, loose morals, homosexuality, marital unfaithfulness, incest, and the oppression of he poor. - Leviticus 18:9-29; 19:29; Deuteronomy 18:9-12; Proverbs 6:16-19; Jeremiah 7:5-7; Malachi 2:14-16.

How does Jehovah feel about idoltry? Exodus 20:4, 5 states: "You must not make for yourselves a carved image (crosses, image of Jesus or Mary etc...) or a form like anything that is in the heavens above or that is on the earth underneath or that is in the waters under the earth. You must not bow down to them or be induced to serve them." Why? because an idol "is a thing detestable to Jehovah." (Deuteronomy 7:25, 26) The Apostle John warned: "Little children, guard yourselves from idols." (1John 5:21) And the Apostle Paul wrote: "My beloved ones, flee from idoltatry." - 1 Corinthians 10:14.


Continued-Next time: Seek God's Approval

How Can We Make God's Heart Rejoice

Consider how the family head Noah made Jehovah's heart rejoice. Noah "found favor in the eyes of Jehovah" because "he proved himself faultless among his contemporaries." In stark contrast with the wicked people of that time, Noah's faith and obedience were so pleasing to God that it could be said that "Noah walked with the true God." (Genesis 6:6, 8, 9, 22) "By faith Noah..... showed godly fear and constructed an ark for the saving of his household." (Hebrews 11:7) Jehovah was pleased with Noah and blessed him and his family with survival through that turbulent period of human history.

The patriarch Abraham also had an acute awareness of Jehovah's feelings. His intimate knowledge of God's thinking was clearly evident when Jehovah informed him that Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed because of their depravity. Abraham knew Jehovah well enough to conclude that it was unthinkable that God would put to death the righteous man with the wicked one. (Genesis 18:17-33) Years later, in obedience to God's direction, Abraham "as good as offered up Isaac, " for "he reckoned that God was able to raise him up even from the dead." (Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-18) Abraham was so attuned to God's feelings and displayed such strong faith and obedience that "he came to be called Jehovah's friend.' " - James 2:23.

Another man who endeavored to make God's heart glad was King David of ancient Israel. Concerning him, Jehovah said: " I have found David the son of Jesse, a man agreeable to my heart, who will do all the things I desire." (Acts 13:22) Before facing the gian Goliath, David put his implicit trust in God and told Israelite King Saul: "Jehovah, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, he it is who will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine." Jehovah blessed David's confidence in Him, enabling David to slay Goliath. (1 Samuel 17:37, 45-54) David wanted not only his actions but also 'the sayings of his mouth and the meditation of his heart to be pleasurable before Jehovah.' - Psalm 19:14.

What about us? How can we please Jehovah? The more sensitive we are to God's feelings, the more we will become aware of what we can do to make God's heart rejoice. As we read the Bible, then, it is essential that we make the effort to learn about God's feelings so that we "may be filled with the accurate knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual comprehension, in order to walk worthily of Jehovah to the end of fully pleasing him." (Colossians 1:9, 10) Knowledge, in turn, helps us to build faith. This is vital because "without faith it is impossible to please [God] well." (Hebrews 11:6) Yes, by putting forth effort to build harmony with Jehovah's will, we can make his heart glad. At the same time, we must be careful not to make Jehovah feel hurt at heart.


Continue-Next time: Do Not Make God Feel Hurt