Kinds Of Germs
Viruses are the tiniest germs. They are the cause of common illnesses such as colds, flu and sore throats. Viruses also cause terrible diseases such as Polio, Ebola and Aids.
Bacteria are one-celled organisms so simple that they lack a nucleus and generally have only one chromosome. Bacteria inhabit our bodies by the trillions, mostly in our digestive tract. They help us to digest our food and are the primary source of vitamin K, necessary for the clotting of blood.
Only about 300 out of some 4,000 listed species of bacteria are considered pathogens (disease causing). Still, bacteria are the source of a long list of diseases in plants, animals and humans. In humans these diseases include tuberculosis, cholera, diphtheria, anthrax, tooth decay, certain kinds of pneumonia and a number of sexually transmitted diseases.
Protozoans, like bacteria, are single-celled organisms, but they may have more than one nucleus. Included are amoebas and trypanosomes as well as the parasite that causes malaria. About one-third of living species are parasites - there are some 10,000 different kinds - although only a few of these parasites cause disease in humans.
Fungi too can cause illness. These organisms have a nucleus and form tangled mats of filaments. The most common infections are ringworm, such as athlete's foot and candidiasis (Candida). Serious fungal infections usually afflict only people whose defenses have been weakened by malnutrition, cancer, drugs, or viral infections that suppress the immune system.
Note: I hope this helped someone out there. Thank-you to those out there who are taking the time to read my blogs. If I can touch just one person out there. It is worth all the time I have to do them. There is more to this subject, so stay tuned.
Next time: When Germs Will Not Harm Anyone
3.31.2007
3.30.2007
A Foreboding Future
Although most antibiotics today still work in the majority of the people, how effective will such drugs be in the future? The Antibiotic Paradox observes: " We can no longer expect that any infection will be cured by the first antibiotic chosen." The book adds: "In some parts of the world, limited supplies of antibiotics mean that no available antibiotic is effective. . . Patients are suffering and dying from diseases that some predicted 50 years ago would be wiped off the face of the earth."
Bacteria are not the only germs that have become resistant to drugs used in medicine. Viruses as well as fungi and other tiny parasites have also shown amazing adaptability, offering the world strains that threaten to nullify all the efforts invested to discover and produce the drugs that fight them.
What, then, can be done? Can resistance be eliminated or at least contained? How can the victories won by antibiotics and other antimicrobials be preserved in a world increasingly beset by infectious diseases?
Next time: Kinds Of Germs
Although most antibiotics today still work in the majority of the people, how effective will such drugs be in the future? The Antibiotic Paradox observes: " We can no longer expect that any infection will be cured by the first antibiotic chosen." The book adds: "In some parts of the world, limited supplies of antibiotics mean that no available antibiotic is effective. . . Patients are suffering and dying from diseases that some predicted 50 years ago would be wiped off the face of the earth."
Bacteria are not the only germs that have become resistant to drugs used in medicine. Viruses as well as fungi and other tiny parasites have also shown amazing adaptability, offering the world strains that threaten to nullify all the efforts invested to discover and produce the drugs that fight them.
What, then, can be done? Can resistance be eliminated or at least contained? How can the victories won by antibiotics and other antimicrobials be preserved in a world increasingly beset by infectious diseases?
Next time: Kinds Of Germs
3.29.2007
What Are Antimicrobials?
The antibiotic give you by a doctor falls into a class of medicines called antimicrobials. These come under the general heading "Chemotherapy," which refers to the treatment of disease with chemicals. While the term "chemotherapy" is often used in connection with treating cancer, it originally applied -and still does - to the treatment of infectious diseases. In such cases it is called antimicrobial chemotherapy.
Microbes, or microorganisms, are tiny organisms that can be seen only with the help of a microscope. Antimicrobials are chemicals that act against microbes that cause illness. Unfortunately, antimicrobials can also act against microbes that are beneficial.
In 1941, Selman Waksman, codiscoverer of streptomycin, appllied the term "antibiotic" to antibacterials that come from microorganisms. Antibiotics as well as other antimicrobials used in medical treatment are valuable because of what is called selective toxicity. This means that they can poison germs without seriously poisoning you.
Actually, however, all antibiotics are at least somewhat poisonous to us too. The margin of safety between the dosage that will affect the germs and the dosage that will harm us is called the theraputic index. the larger the index, the safer the drug; The smaller, the more dangerous. In fact, thousands of antibiotic substances have been found, but most are not useful in medicine because of being too toxic to people or to animals.
The first natural antibiotic that could be uses internationally was penicillin, which came from a mold called Penicillium notatum. Penicillin was employed intravenously for the first time in 1941. Shortly thereafter, in 1943, streptomycin was isolated from Streptomyces griseus, a soil bacteria. In time, scores of additional antibiotics were developed, both those that are derived from living things and those that are made synthetically. Yet, bacteria have developed ways of resisting many of these antibiotics, causing a global medical problem.
Next time: A Foreboding Future
The antibiotic give you by a doctor falls into a class of medicines called antimicrobials. These come under the general heading "Chemotherapy," which refers to the treatment of disease with chemicals. While the term "chemotherapy" is often used in connection with treating cancer, it originally applied -and still does - to the treatment of infectious diseases. In such cases it is called antimicrobial chemotherapy.
Microbes, or microorganisms, are tiny organisms that can be seen only with the help of a microscope. Antimicrobials are chemicals that act against microbes that cause illness. Unfortunately, antimicrobials can also act against microbes that are beneficial.
In 1941, Selman Waksman, codiscoverer of streptomycin, appllied the term "antibiotic" to antibacterials that come from microorganisms. Antibiotics as well as other antimicrobials used in medical treatment are valuable because of what is called selective toxicity. This means that they can poison germs without seriously poisoning you.
Actually, however, all antibiotics are at least somewhat poisonous to us too. The margin of safety between the dosage that will affect the germs and the dosage that will harm us is called the theraputic index. the larger the index, the safer the drug; The smaller, the more dangerous. In fact, thousands of antibiotic substances have been found, but most are not useful in medicine because of being too toxic to people or to animals.
The first natural antibiotic that could be uses internationally was penicillin, which came from a mold called Penicillium notatum. Penicillin was employed intravenously for the first time in 1941. Shortly thereafter, in 1943, streptomycin was isolated from Streptomyces griseus, a soil bacteria. In time, scores of additional antibiotics were developed, both those that are derived from living things and those that are made synthetically. Yet, bacteria have developed ways of resisting many of these antibiotics, causing a global medical problem.
Next time: A Foreboding Future
3.28.2007
Multidrug Resistance
Then, to their horror, medical scientists learned that bacteria exchange genes among themselves. At first it was thought that only bacteria of the same type could exchange genes. But later the very same resistance genes were discovered in completely different types of bacteria. By means of such exchanges, bacteria of various types have accumulated resistance to many different commonly used drugs.
As if all of this were not enough, studies in the 1990's showed that some bacteria can become drug resistant on their own. Even in the presence of only one antibiotic, some kinds of bacteria develop resistance to multiple antibiotics, both natural and synthetic.
Next time: What Are Antimicrobials?
Then, to their horror, medical scientists learned that bacteria exchange genes among themselves. At first it was thought that only bacteria of the same type could exchange genes. But later the very same resistance genes were discovered in completely different types of bacteria. By means of such exchanges, bacteria of various types have accumulated resistance to many different commonly used drugs.
As if all of this were not enough, studies in the 1990's showed that some bacteria can become drug resistant on their own. Even in the presence of only one antibiotic, some kinds of bacteria develop resistance to multiple antibiotics, both natural and synthetic.
Next time: What Are Antimicrobials?
3.27.2007
Bacterial Resistance
The astounding resilience of everyday gerams has proved a major problem, one not generally anticipated. Yet, in hindsight, that germs would develop immunity to drugs should have been anticipated. Why? Consider, for example, something related that happened with the introduction of the insecticide DDT in the mid - 1940's. At that time dairymen rejoiced as flies essentially disappeard withthe spraying of DDT. But a few flies survived , and their offspring inherited immunity to DDT. Soon these flies, unaffected by DDT, multiplied in vast numbers.
Even before DDT was used, and before penicillin became commercially available in 1944, harmful bacteria gave foregleams of their prodigious defensive weaponry. Dr. Alexander Fleming, penicillin's discoverer, became aware of this. In his laboratory he watched as succeeding generations of Staphylococcus aureus (hospital staph) developed cell walls increasingly impervious to the drug that he had discovered.
This led Dr. Fleming to warn some 60 years ago that harmful bacteria in an infected person could develop resistance to penicillin. So if doses of penicillin did not kill sufficient numbers of the harmful bacteria, their resistant offspring would multiply. As a result, there would be a rebound of the disease that penicillin would not cure.
The book The Antibiotic Paradox comments: "Flemings predictions were borne out in a more devastating way than ever he surmised." How so? Well, it was learned that in some strains of bacteria, the genes - the tiny blueprints in a bacterium's DNA - produce enzymes. As a result, even extensive courses of penicillin often prove useless. What a shock this was!
In an attempt to win the battle against infectious diseases, new antibiotics were regularly introduced into medicine from the 1940's through the 1970's, as well as a few during the 1980's and the 1990's. These could treat bacteria that defiled earlier drugs. But within a few years, strains of bacteria surfaced that defied these new drugs as well.
Humans have come to learn that bacterial resistance is astonishingly ingenious. Bacteria have the ability to change their cell wall to keep the antibiotic out or to alter their own chemistry so that the antibiotic cannot kill them. On the other hand, the bacteria may pump the antibiotic out as fast as it enters, or the bacteria may simply render the antibiotic ineffectual by taking it apart.
As the use of antibiotics has increased, resistant strains of bacteria have multiplied and spread. A total disaster? No, at least not in most cases. If one antibiotic doesn't work for a particular infection, another usually does. Resistance has been a nuisance but until recently it has usually been manageable.
Next time: Multidrug Resistance
The astounding resilience of everyday gerams has proved a major problem, one not generally anticipated. Yet, in hindsight, that germs would develop immunity to drugs should have been anticipated. Why? Consider, for example, something related that happened with the introduction of the insecticide DDT in the mid - 1940's. At that time dairymen rejoiced as flies essentially disappeard withthe spraying of DDT. But a few flies survived , and their offspring inherited immunity to DDT. Soon these flies, unaffected by DDT, multiplied in vast numbers.
Even before DDT was used, and before penicillin became commercially available in 1944, harmful bacteria gave foregleams of their prodigious defensive weaponry. Dr. Alexander Fleming, penicillin's discoverer, became aware of this. In his laboratory he watched as succeeding generations of Staphylococcus aureus (hospital staph) developed cell walls increasingly impervious to the drug that he had discovered.
This led Dr. Fleming to warn some 60 years ago that harmful bacteria in an infected person could develop resistance to penicillin. So if doses of penicillin did not kill sufficient numbers of the harmful bacteria, their resistant offspring would multiply. As a result, there would be a rebound of the disease that penicillin would not cure.
The book The Antibiotic Paradox comments: "Flemings predictions were borne out in a more devastating way than ever he surmised." How so? Well, it was learned that in some strains of bacteria, the genes - the tiny blueprints in a bacterium's DNA - produce enzymes. As a result, even extensive courses of penicillin often prove useless. What a shock this was!
In an attempt to win the battle against infectious diseases, new antibiotics were regularly introduced into medicine from the 1940's through the 1970's, as well as a few during the 1980's and the 1990's. These could treat bacteria that defiled earlier drugs. But within a few years, strains of bacteria surfaced that defied these new drugs as well.
Humans have come to learn that bacterial resistance is astonishingly ingenious. Bacteria have the ability to change their cell wall to keep the antibiotic out or to alter their own chemistry so that the antibiotic cannot kill them. On the other hand, the bacteria may pump the antibiotic out as fast as it enters, or the bacteria may simply render the antibiotic ineffectual by taking it apart.
As the use of antibiotics has increased, resistant strains of bacteria have multiplied and spread. A total disaster? No, at least not in most cases. If one antibiotic doesn't work for a particular infection, another usually does. Resistance has been a nuisance but until recently it has usually been manageable.
Next time: Multidrug Resistance
3.26.2007
Anticipation Of Victory Smashed
By the 1950's and 1960's, some people had begun to celebrate victory over infectious diseases. Some microbiologist even believed that these diseases would soon be a nightmare of the past. In 1969 the U.S. Surgeon General testified before Congress that humanity might soon "close the book on infectious disease." In 1972, Nobel Laureate Macfarlane Burnet along with David White wrote: " The most likely forecast about the future of infectious disease is that it will be very dull." Indeed, some felt that such diseases might be eliminated altogether. The belief that infectious diseases had, in effect, been defeated resulted in widespread over confidence. One nurse who was familiar with the dire threat that germs posed before the introduction of antibiotics noted that some younger nurses had become lax in simple hygiene. When she reminded them to wash their hands, they would retort: "Don't worry, we have antibiotics now."
Yet, dependence on antibiotics and their overuse have had disastrous consequences. Infectious diseases have persisted. More than that, they have roared back to become the leading cause of death in the world! Other factors that have also contributed to the spread of infectious diseases include the chaos of warfare, widespread malnutrition in developing countries, lack of clean water, poor sanitation, rapid international travel and global climate change.
Next time: Bacterial Resistance
By the 1950's and 1960's, some people had begun to celebrate victory over infectious diseases. Some microbiologist even believed that these diseases would soon be a nightmare of the past. In 1969 the U.S. Surgeon General testified before Congress that humanity might soon "close the book on infectious disease." In 1972, Nobel Laureate Macfarlane Burnet along with David White wrote: " The most likely forecast about the future of infectious disease is that it will be very dull." Indeed, some felt that such diseases might be eliminated altogether. The belief that infectious diseases had, in effect, been defeated resulted in widespread over confidence. One nurse who was familiar with the dire threat that germs posed before the introduction of antibiotics noted that some younger nurses had become lax in simple hygiene. When she reminded them to wash their hands, they would retort: "Don't worry, we have antibiotics now."
Yet, dependence on antibiotics and their overuse have had disastrous consequences. Infectious diseases have persisted. More than that, they have roared back to become the leading cause of death in the world! Other factors that have also contributed to the spread of infectious diseases include the chaos of warfare, widespread malnutrition in developing countries, lack of clean water, poor sanitation, rapid international travel and global climate change.
Next time: Bacterial Resistance
3.25.2007
Those Resilient Germs How They Rebound
Viruses, bacteria, protozoans, fungi, and other microorganisms have evidently been around since life on earth began. The stunning flexibility of these germs, the simplest of all creatures, has allowed them to survive where nothing else can. They are found in scalding vents on the ocean floor as well as in freezing waters of the Artic. Now these germs are repeling the most concentrated of all assaults on their existence - antimicrobial drugs.
A hundred years ago, some microbes, or microorganisms, were known to cause illness, but no one living had heard of antimicrobial medicines. So if a person came down with a serious infectious disease, many doctores had little to offer in the way of treatment except moral support. The person's immune system had to fight off the infection on its own. if the immune system wasn't strong enough, the consequence was often tragic. Even a minor scratch infected by a microbe all too often led to death.
Thus, the discovery of the first safe antimicrobial drugs - antibiotics - revolutionized medicine. The medical us of sulfa drugs in the 1930's and of such drugs as penicillin and streptomycin in the 1940's led to a flood of discoveries in succeeding decades. By the 1990's , the antibiotic armory had come to include some 150 compounds in 15 different categories.
Next time: Anticipation Of Victory Smashed
Viruses, bacteria, protozoans, fungi, and other microorganisms have evidently been around since life on earth began. The stunning flexibility of these germs, the simplest of all creatures, has allowed them to survive where nothing else can. They are found in scalding vents on the ocean floor as well as in freezing waters of the Artic. Now these germs are repeling the most concentrated of all assaults on their existence - antimicrobial drugs.
A hundred years ago, some microbes, or microorganisms, were known to cause illness, but no one living had heard of antimicrobial medicines. So if a person came down with a serious infectious disease, many doctores had little to offer in the way of treatment except moral support. The person's immune system had to fight off the infection on its own. if the immune system wasn't strong enough, the consequence was often tragic. Even a minor scratch infected by a microbe all too often led to death.
Thus, the discovery of the first safe antimicrobial drugs - antibiotics - revolutionized medicine. The medical us of sulfa drugs in the 1930's and of such drugs as penicillin and streptomycin in the 1940's led to a flood of discoveries in succeeding decades. By the 1990's , the antibiotic armory had come to include some 150 compounds in 15 different categories.
Next time: Anticipation Of Victory Smashed
3.24.2007
How Great Is The Menace?
In October 1997, Hollie Mullin, a three-week-old baby, contracted an ear infection. When it failed to clear up in a few days, her doctor prescribed a modern antibiotic. It should have been a routine cure, but it wasn't . The infection returned and continued to do so after each course of antibiotics.
In her first year, Hollie had 17 courses of various antibiotics. Then, at age 21 months of age, she got her worst infection. after 14 days of intravenous administration of an antibiotic of last resort, the infection finally cleared up.
Scenarios like this have become increasingly common and not just among babies and the elderly. People of all ages are getting sick and even dying from infections that were once easily cured with antibiotics. Actually, germs that survive antibiotic assault have been a serious problem in some hospitals since the 1950's. then during the 1960's and 1970's, germs resistant to antibiotics spread into communities.
In time, medical researchers began to cite overuse of antibiotics in humans and animals as the principal cause of the increase in germs that are resistant to antibiotics. In 1978 one of these medical personnel described antibiotic overuse as "completely out of hand." So by the 1990's , headlines like the following were appearing worldwide: " Superbugs Arrive," "Superbugs Take Hold," "Dangerous Drugs -Antibiotic Overuse is Spawning Superbugs."
Sensationalism? Not according to respected medical organizations. In a report on infectious diseases in 2000, the director general of the World Health Organization (WHO) stated: " At the dawn of a new millennium, humanity is faced with another crisis. Formerly curable diseases... are now arrayed in the increasingly impenetrable armour of antimicrobial resistance."
How serious is the crisis? "This disturbing development [of drug-resistant germs] is closing the windows of opportunity to treat infectious diseases," WHO reported. A number of authorities today even speak of humanity's return to a " pre-antibiotic age," when there were no antibiotics for curing infections.
How have resistant microorganisms been able, in effect, to colonize the world, outmaneuvering sophisticated scientific advances? Is there anything an individual can do to protect himself or others? And what solutions are in the offing to combat germs that are resistant to antibiotics? The following articles present some answers.
Next time: Those Resilient Germs How They Rebound
In October 1997, Hollie Mullin, a three-week-old baby, contracted an ear infection. When it failed to clear up in a few days, her doctor prescribed a modern antibiotic. It should have been a routine cure, but it wasn't . The infection returned and continued to do so after each course of antibiotics.
In her first year, Hollie had 17 courses of various antibiotics. Then, at age 21 months of age, she got her worst infection. after 14 days of intravenous administration of an antibiotic of last resort, the infection finally cleared up.
Scenarios like this have become increasingly common and not just among babies and the elderly. People of all ages are getting sick and even dying from infections that were once easily cured with antibiotics. Actually, germs that survive antibiotic assault have been a serious problem in some hospitals since the 1950's. then during the 1960's and 1970's, germs resistant to antibiotics spread into communities.
In time, medical researchers began to cite overuse of antibiotics in humans and animals as the principal cause of the increase in germs that are resistant to antibiotics. In 1978 one of these medical personnel described antibiotic overuse as "completely out of hand." So by the 1990's , headlines like the following were appearing worldwide: " Superbugs Arrive," "Superbugs Take Hold," "Dangerous Drugs -Antibiotic Overuse is Spawning Superbugs."
Sensationalism? Not according to respected medical organizations. In a report on infectious diseases in 2000, the director general of the World Health Organization (WHO) stated: " At the dawn of a new millennium, humanity is faced with another crisis. Formerly curable diseases... are now arrayed in the increasingly impenetrable armour of antimicrobial resistance."
How serious is the crisis? "This disturbing development [of drug-resistant germs] is closing the windows of opportunity to treat infectious diseases," WHO reported. A number of authorities today even speak of humanity's return to a " pre-antibiotic age," when there were no antibiotics for curing infections.
How have resistant microorganisms been able, in effect, to colonize the world, outmaneuvering sophisticated scientific advances? Is there anything an individual can do to protect himself or others? And what solutions are in the offing to combat germs that are resistant to antibiotics? The following articles present some answers.
Next time: Those Resilient Germs How They Rebound
3.23.2007
This is a little outside the realm of what I usually type,but it is a very excellent reason to get in God's good graces, because he can protect us from a lot of problems to come. But just believing In Jehovah God is not enough, not for him. We need to show faith, working for him, studying the Bible, not letting someone do it for us, because there are not many, if any true minister of God. They will not tell the whole truth. We must find it ourselves by reading the Bible word for word everyday and when you are done, start all over again, because the more often you read it, the more you understand each day. It takes time, but Jehovah God is worth it. After all, he gave up a Son in order that our sins may be forgiven. But also, we must continue to worship him as it is told in the Bible.
The Ten Commandments, which I am sure you have heard of. We are to obey them as we would obey any law here on earth. Only we need to obey God first and foremost. He is the one that can make us or break us. I have been reading the Bible for years word for word daily and then some. I have seen prayers answered and have had some answered, but you have to be patient, because Jehovah God answers prayers in his own due time, but he does it, he waits sometimes to test to see how long strong your faith is before he answers. But he does answer, and it is always just when you need them answered the most. His timing is impeccable. But if he doesn't answer, it is because he has read what is in your heart and if you don't have the faith etc.., then he won't even bother. He sees everything, he hears everything and he knows everything. There is nothing that anyone can hide from him. He is a kind, generous and loving spirit and if we do all we can for him, he will do all he can for us. He would never to do anything to hurt us.
When we are bad, he disciplines us, because we are his children. We all pay for our sins. If something doesn't happen, then it isn't suppose to. We have to accept that. We all have to grow and eventually die, it is the cycle of life and that is the way Jehovah God has planned. We have to accept that too. It is all due to Adam and Eve's disobedience to God for eating from the tree of knowledge. And it doesn't mean it was an apple tree. There is no mention of what kind of fruit that the tree bore.
Them eating off the tree, is what caused them to get kicked out of the Garden of Eden and forced to live a sinful life, growing old and grey and eventually dying. That is our curse, for their disobedience.
People out there seem to think that its alright to dye their hair, get plastic surgery, wear fancy expensive clothes and jewelry, live above our means. That is not what God wants us to do. We should live a good spiritual and humble life and treat others as we would want them to treat us. Satan is running things right now, but if we have a lot of faith, belief,love of God, works for God, love of our neighbor, which is, by the way, the second most important commandment that God asks of us. The most important is to love God with our whole heart, mind,spirit body and being and, obeying everything he tell us. If we do all his will, he will protect us until the resurrection, when we will be judged for our deeds, how we treated others etc...
All this stupid style of clothes, hair etc.. is not God's idea of dress etc... Men should not have long hair. If Jesus had long hair (which no one has ever actually seen him, nor could without dying) It was because, he traveled around preaching the good news (truth) and healing people who were cripple, blind diseased, possessed of the Devil etc..., He would have been too busy to worry about clean clothes, much less getting a haircut. And women should not have short hair. In the Bible, it says that women with long is like a crown of glory upon them. Don't quote me on that, but basically, that is what it says. And that is How Jehovah God feels. Also, men should not be sleeping with men, nor women with women. That is a travesty to God.
Read the Bible, believe me, you will learn so much. That is, if you are not afraid of the truth, but if you are, which I would wager, if I were a gambling person, that you are, so therefore, go ahead and keep your heads in the sand and see where it gets you. ABSOLUTELY NOWHERE!
If this offends you, then you are in bad shape. Do not hurry yourself in your spirit to become offended, for the taking of offense is what rests in the bosom of the stupid ones. Ecclesiastes 7:9. For wisdom is for a protection [the same as ] money is for a protection; but, the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom itself preserves alive its owners. Ecclesiastes 7:12. But you, O Jehovah, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and trueness.
Next time: How Great Is The Menace (that which is one of the reasons for getting close to God)
The Ten Commandments, which I am sure you have heard of. We are to obey them as we would obey any law here on earth. Only we need to obey God first and foremost. He is the one that can make us or break us. I have been reading the Bible for years word for word daily and then some. I have seen prayers answered and have had some answered, but you have to be patient, because Jehovah God answers prayers in his own due time, but he does it, he waits sometimes to test to see how long strong your faith is before he answers. But he does answer, and it is always just when you need them answered the most. His timing is impeccable. But if he doesn't answer, it is because he has read what is in your heart and if you don't have the faith etc.., then he won't even bother. He sees everything, he hears everything and he knows everything. There is nothing that anyone can hide from him. He is a kind, generous and loving spirit and if we do all we can for him, he will do all he can for us. He would never to do anything to hurt us.
When we are bad, he disciplines us, because we are his children. We all pay for our sins. If something doesn't happen, then it isn't suppose to. We have to accept that. We all have to grow and eventually die, it is the cycle of life and that is the way Jehovah God has planned. We have to accept that too. It is all due to Adam and Eve's disobedience to God for eating from the tree of knowledge. And it doesn't mean it was an apple tree. There is no mention of what kind of fruit that the tree bore.
Them eating off the tree, is what caused them to get kicked out of the Garden of Eden and forced to live a sinful life, growing old and grey and eventually dying. That is our curse, for their disobedience.
People out there seem to think that its alright to dye their hair, get plastic surgery, wear fancy expensive clothes and jewelry, live above our means. That is not what God wants us to do. We should live a good spiritual and humble life and treat others as we would want them to treat us. Satan is running things right now, but if we have a lot of faith, belief,love of God, works for God, love of our neighbor, which is, by the way, the second most important commandment that God asks of us. The most important is to love God with our whole heart, mind,spirit body and being and, obeying everything he tell us. If we do all his will, he will protect us until the resurrection, when we will be judged for our deeds, how we treated others etc...
All this stupid style of clothes, hair etc.. is not God's idea of dress etc... Men should not have long hair. If Jesus had long hair (which no one has ever actually seen him, nor could without dying) It was because, he traveled around preaching the good news (truth) and healing people who were cripple, blind diseased, possessed of the Devil etc..., He would have been too busy to worry about clean clothes, much less getting a haircut. And women should not have short hair. In the Bible, it says that women with long is like a crown of glory upon them. Don't quote me on that, but basically, that is what it says. And that is How Jehovah God feels. Also, men should not be sleeping with men, nor women with women. That is a travesty to God.
Read the Bible, believe me, you will learn so much. That is, if you are not afraid of the truth, but if you are, which I would wager, if I were a gambling person, that you are, so therefore, go ahead and keep your heads in the sand and see where it gets you. ABSOLUTELY NOWHERE!
If this offends you, then you are in bad shape. Do not hurry yourself in your spirit to become offended, for the taking of offense is what rests in the bosom of the stupid ones. Ecclesiastes 7:9. For wisdom is for a protection [the same as ] money is for a protection; but, the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom itself preserves alive its owners. Ecclesiastes 7:12. But you, O Jehovah, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and trueness.
Next time: How Great Is The Menace (that which is one of the reasons for getting close to God)
3.21.2007
Results Of Jesus' Teachings
Those who listened to Jesus and became his disciples appreciated the truth of his declaration: "My yoke is kindly and my load is light." (Matthew 11:30) They never felt burdened, harassed or harangued by him. They were freer, happier and more confident about their relationship with God and with one another. (Matthew 7:1-5; Luke 9:49, 50) From him they learned that being a spiritual leader calls for being refreshing to others, manifesting lowliness of mind and heart. - 1 Corinthians 16:17, 18; Philippians 2:3.
Moreover, many were deeply impressed with the importance of remaining in union with Christ and adopting the spirit he showed. He told his disciples: "Just as the Father has loved me and I have loved you, remain in my love. If you observe my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have observed the commandments of the Father and remain in his love." (John 15:9, 10) If they were to be successful as ministers and servants of God, they would have to apply diligently what they had learned from Jesus, both in preaching and teaching publicly about God's wonderful good news and in dealing with family and friends. As the brotherhood grew into congregations, they would time and again need to remind themselves that his way was the right way. What he taught was the truth, and the life they had observed embodied in him was truly the life to aspire to. - John 14:6; Ephesians 4:20, 21.
As you now reflect on some of the things we have been discussing, do you see ways in which to improve? Do you agree that Jesus always thought, taught and acted appropriately? Then, take heart. His encouraging words to us are: " If you know these things, happy you are if you do them." - John 13:17.
Those who listened to Jesus and became his disciples appreciated the truth of his declaration: "My yoke is kindly and my load is light." (Matthew 11:30) They never felt burdened, harassed or harangued by him. They were freer, happier and more confident about their relationship with God and with one another. (Matthew 7:1-5; Luke 9:49, 50) From him they learned that being a spiritual leader calls for being refreshing to others, manifesting lowliness of mind and heart. - 1 Corinthians 16:17, 18; Philippians 2:3.
Moreover, many were deeply impressed with the importance of remaining in union with Christ and adopting the spirit he showed. He told his disciples: "Just as the Father has loved me and I have loved you, remain in my love. If you observe my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have observed the commandments of the Father and remain in his love." (John 15:9, 10) If they were to be successful as ministers and servants of God, they would have to apply diligently what they had learned from Jesus, both in preaching and teaching publicly about God's wonderful good news and in dealing with family and friends. As the brotherhood grew into congregations, they would time and again need to remind themselves that his way was the right way. What he taught was the truth, and the life they had observed embodied in him was truly the life to aspire to. - John 14:6; Ephesians 4:20, 21.
As you now reflect on some of the things we have been discussing, do you see ways in which to improve? Do you agree that Jesus always thought, taught and acted appropriately? Then, take heart. His encouraging words to us are: " If you know these things, happy you are if you do them." - John 13:17.
3.20.2007
How Did Jesus Handle Problems?
Jesus' way of handling problems was far different from that of the Pharisees. Consider how Jesus handled a situation that could have been very serious. It involved a woman who had had a flow of blood for 12 years. You can read the account at Luke 8:42-48.
Mark's account says that the woman was "frightened and trembling." (Mark 5:33) Why? Doubtless because she knew that she had broken God's Law. According to Leviticus 15:25-28, a woman with an unnatural flow of blood was unclean for as it lasted, plus a week. Everything she touched and every person she came in contact with became defiled. To approach Jesus, this woman had to work her way through the throng. When we look at the account 2,000 years later, our hearts go out to her in her discomfort.
If you had been present that day, how would you have viewed the situation? What would you have said? Notice that Jesus treated this woman in a kind, loving and considerate way, not even alluding to any problems she may have caused. - Mark 5:34.
Can we learn something from this event? Suppose you were an elder in a Christian congregation today. And further suppose that Leviticus 15:25-28 were a Christian requirement today and that a Christian woman had violated that law, frantic and abandoned. How would you react? Would you publicly humiliate her with critical counsel? "Oh," you say, Never would I do that! Following Jesus' example, I would make every effort to be kind, loving, thoughtful and considerate." Very good! But the challenge is to do it, to imitate Jesus' pattern.
Essentially, people felt refreshed by Jesus, uplifted and encouraged. Where God's Law was definite, it meant what it said. If it seemed general, their conscience would come mroe into play and they could show their love for God by their decisions. The Law gave them room to live and breathe. (Mark 2:27, 28) God loved his people, worked constantly for their good, and was willing to be merciful when they faltered. Jesus was like that. - John 14:9.
Next time: Results Of Jesus' Teachings
Jesus' way of handling problems was far different from that of the Pharisees. Consider how Jesus handled a situation that could have been very serious. It involved a woman who had had a flow of blood for 12 years. You can read the account at Luke 8:42-48.
Mark's account says that the woman was "frightened and trembling." (Mark 5:33) Why? Doubtless because she knew that she had broken God's Law. According to Leviticus 15:25-28, a woman with an unnatural flow of blood was unclean for as it lasted, plus a week. Everything she touched and every person she came in contact with became defiled. To approach Jesus, this woman had to work her way through the throng. When we look at the account 2,000 years later, our hearts go out to her in her discomfort.
If you had been present that day, how would you have viewed the situation? What would you have said? Notice that Jesus treated this woman in a kind, loving and considerate way, not even alluding to any problems she may have caused. - Mark 5:34.
Can we learn something from this event? Suppose you were an elder in a Christian congregation today. And further suppose that Leviticus 15:25-28 were a Christian requirement today and that a Christian woman had violated that law, frantic and abandoned. How would you react? Would you publicly humiliate her with critical counsel? "Oh," you say, Never would I do that! Following Jesus' example, I would make every effort to be kind, loving, thoughtful and considerate." Very good! But the challenge is to do it, to imitate Jesus' pattern.
Essentially, people felt refreshed by Jesus, uplifted and encouraged. Where God's Law was definite, it meant what it said. If it seemed general, their conscience would come mroe into play and they could show their love for God by their decisions. The Law gave them room to live and breathe. (Mark 2:27, 28) God loved his people, worked constantly for their good, and was willing to be merciful when they faltered. Jesus was like that. - John 14:9.
Next time: Results Of Jesus' Teachings
3.19.2007
Jesus' View
Jesus castigated the scribes and Pharisees as hypocritical. "They bind up heavy loads and put them upon the shoulders of men, but they themselves are not willing to budge them with their finger." Yes, the load was heavy, and the yoke imposed on the people was harsh. Jesus went on to call the scribes and Pharisees " fools." A fool is a menace to the communtiy. Jesus also called the scribes and Pharisees "blind guides and asserted that they had disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely justice and mercy and faithfullness." Who would want Jesus to think of him as Pharisaic? - Matthew 23:1-4, 16, 17, 23.
Almost any reader of the Gospel accounts can see the critical nature of most Pharisees. After Jesus invited Matthew Levi, the tax collector, to become a disciple, Levi spread a big reception feast for him. The account says: " At this the Pharisees and their scribes began murmuring to his disciples, saying: 'Why is it you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?' In reply Jesus said to them: . . . I have come to call, not righteous persons, but sinners to repentance.' " - Luke 5:27-32.
Levi made himself appreciated something else Jesus said on that occasion: "Go, then, and learn what this means. ' I want mercy, and not sacrifice.' " (Matthew 9:13) Although the Pharisees claimed to believe in the writings of the Hebrew prophets, they did not embrace this saying from Hosea 6:6. If they were going to err, they made sure it would be on the side of obedience to tradition. Each of us could ask ourselves, 'Do I have a reputation for being a stickler for certain rules, such as ones that reflect personal opinion or common approaches to a matter? Or do others think of me as being first of all merciful and good?
Pick, pick, Pick. That was the Pharisaic way. The Pharisees look for every flaw - real or imagined. They kept people on the defensive and reminded them or their failures. The pharisees prided themselves on tithing the tiniest herbs, like mint, dill and cumin. The advertised their piety by their dress and tried to direct the nation. Surely, if our actions are to be in harmony with Jesus' example, we must avoid the tendency of always looking for and highlighting the flaws in others.
Next time: How Did Jesus Handle Problems?
Jesus castigated the scribes and Pharisees as hypocritical. "They bind up heavy loads and put them upon the shoulders of men, but they themselves are not willing to budge them with their finger." Yes, the load was heavy, and the yoke imposed on the people was harsh. Jesus went on to call the scribes and Pharisees " fools." A fool is a menace to the communtiy. Jesus also called the scribes and Pharisees "blind guides and asserted that they had disregarded the weightier matters of the Law, namely justice and mercy and faithfullness." Who would want Jesus to think of him as Pharisaic? - Matthew 23:1-4, 16, 17, 23.
Almost any reader of the Gospel accounts can see the critical nature of most Pharisees. After Jesus invited Matthew Levi, the tax collector, to become a disciple, Levi spread a big reception feast for him. The account says: " At this the Pharisees and their scribes began murmuring to his disciples, saying: 'Why is it you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?' In reply Jesus said to them: . . . I have come to call, not righteous persons, but sinners to repentance.' " - Luke 5:27-32.
Levi made himself appreciated something else Jesus said on that occasion: "Go, then, and learn what this means. ' I want mercy, and not sacrifice.' " (Matthew 9:13) Although the Pharisees claimed to believe in the writings of the Hebrew prophets, they did not embrace this saying from Hosea 6:6. If they were going to err, they made sure it would be on the side of obedience to tradition. Each of us could ask ourselves, 'Do I have a reputation for being a stickler for certain rules, such as ones that reflect personal opinion or common approaches to a matter? Or do others think of me as being first of all merciful and good?
Pick, pick, Pick. That was the Pharisaic way. The Pharisees look for every flaw - real or imagined. They kept people on the defensive and reminded them or their failures. The pharisees prided themselves on tithing the tiniest herbs, like mint, dill and cumin. The advertised their piety by their dress and tried to direct the nation. Surely, if our actions are to be in harmony with Jesus' example, we must avoid the tendency of always looking for and highlighting the flaws in others.
Next time: How Did Jesus Handle Problems?
3.18.2007
Difference Between Jesus And The Pharisees
What can we learn from this vivid account? It stirs our emotions, does it not? Imagine yourself in Simon's home. How would you feel? Would you respond as did Jesus, or would you feel a bit like his Pharisee host? Jesus was the Son of God, so we cannot feel and act exactly as he did. On the other hand, we may not be eager to think of ourselves as being like Simon, the Pharisee. Few would take pride in being a Pharisaic.
From a study of Biblical and secular evidence, we can conclude that the Pharisees though highly of themselves as guardians of the public good and the national welfare. They were not satisfied that God's Law was fundamentally clear and easily understood. Wherever the Law seemed to them to be unspecific, they sought to plug apparent gaps with defined applications to eliminate any need for conscience. These religious leaders attempted to devise a precept to govern conduct in all issues, even trivialities.
The first - century Jewish historian Josephus makes it obvious that the Pharisees considered themselves to be kind, gentle, just and altogether right for their task. Doubtless, some of them came fairly close to that. Nicodemus might come to your mind. (John 3:1, 2; 7:50, 51) In time, some of them embrace the Christian way. (Acts 15:5) The Christian apostle Paul wrote about certain Jews, such as the Pharisees. "They have a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge." (Romans 10:2) However, the Gospels present them as they were seen by the common people - proud, arrogant, self-righteous, faultfinding, judgmental and demeaning.
Next time: Jesus' View
What can we learn from this vivid account? It stirs our emotions, does it not? Imagine yourself in Simon's home. How would you feel? Would you respond as did Jesus, or would you feel a bit like his Pharisee host? Jesus was the Son of God, so we cannot feel and act exactly as he did. On the other hand, we may not be eager to think of ourselves as being like Simon, the Pharisee. Few would take pride in being a Pharisaic.
From a study of Biblical and secular evidence, we can conclude that the Pharisees though highly of themselves as guardians of the public good and the national welfare. They were not satisfied that God's Law was fundamentally clear and easily understood. Wherever the Law seemed to them to be unspecific, they sought to plug apparent gaps with defined applications to eliminate any need for conscience. These religious leaders attempted to devise a precept to govern conduct in all issues, even trivialities.
The first - century Jewish historian Josephus makes it obvious that the Pharisees considered themselves to be kind, gentle, just and altogether right for their task. Doubtless, some of them came fairly close to that. Nicodemus might come to your mind. (John 3:1, 2; 7:50, 51) In time, some of them embrace the Christian way. (Acts 15:5) The Christian apostle Paul wrote about certain Jews, such as the Pharisees. "They have a zeal for God; but not according to accurate knowledge." (Romans 10:2) However, the Gospels present them as they were seen by the common people - proud, arrogant, self-righteous, faultfinding, judgmental and demeaning.
Next time: Jesus' View
3.17.2007
How Jesus Dealt With People
Imagine yourself living back at that time and being in Jesus' place. How would you have reacted? Would you have felt uneasy as this woman approached you? (Luke 7:45) Would you have been appalled, horrified?
If you had been among the other guests, might your thinking have been at least somewhat like that of Simon and the Pharisee? "At the sight the Pharisee that invited [Jesus] said within himself: 'This man, if he were a prophet, would know how and what kind of woman it is that is touching him, that she is a sinner.' " (Luke 7:39) In contrast, Jesus was a man of deep compassion. He understood the woman's plight and sensed her anguish. We are not told how she fell into a life of sin, if she indeed was a prostitute, the men of the town, dedicated Jews, apparently had not helped her.
But Jesus wanted to help her. he said to her: " Your sins are forgiven." Then he added: " Your faith has saved you; go your way in peace." (Luke 7:48-50) Here the account ends. Someone may object that Jesus did not do much for her. Basically, he sent her away with his blessing. Do you think that she probably returned to her sad way o f life? While we cannot say for sure, take note of what Luke next says. He related that Jesus journeyed "from city to city and from village to village, preaching and declaring the good news of the kingdom." Luke also reported that "certain women' were with Jesus and his disciples, "ministering to them from [the women's ] belongings." The possibility cannot be ruled out that this repentant and appreciative woman was now among them, embarking upon a godly way of life with a clean conscience, a renewed sense of purpose, and a much deeper love for God. -Luke 8:1-3.
Next time: Difference Between Jesus And The Pharisees
Imagine yourself living back at that time and being in Jesus' place. How would you have reacted? Would you have felt uneasy as this woman approached you? (Luke 7:45) Would you have been appalled, horrified?
If you had been among the other guests, might your thinking have been at least somewhat like that of Simon and the Pharisee? "At the sight the Pharisee that invited [Jesus] said within himself: 'This man, if he were a prophet, would know how and what kind of woman it is that is touching him, that she is a sinner.' " (Luke 7:39) In contrast, Jesus was a man of deep compassion. He understood the woman's plight and sensed her anguish. We are not told how she fell into a life of sin, if she indeed was a prostitute, the men of the town, dedicated Jews, apparently had not helped her.
But Jesus wanted to help her. he said to her: " Your sins are forgiven." Then he added: " Your faith has saved you; go your way in peace." (Luke 7:48-50) Here the account ends. Someone may object that Jesus did not do much for her. Basically, he sent her away with his blessing. Do you think that she probably returned to her sad way o f life? While we cannot say for sure, take note of what Luke next says. He related that Jesus journeyed "from city to city and from village to village, preaching and declaring the good news of the kingdom." Luke also reported that "certain women' were with Jesus and his disciples, "ministering to them from [the women's ] belongings." The possibility cannot be ruled out that this repentant and appreciative woman was now among them, embarking upon a godly way of life with a clean conscience, a renewed sense of purpose, and a much deeper love for God. -Luke 8:1-3.
Next time: Difference Between Jesus And The Pharisees
3.16.2007
How Jesus Dealt With People
We need to know how Jesus dealt with people, especially those with serious problems. that should not be hard to learn; the Bible contains many reports of Jesus' encounters with others, some of whom were troubled. Let us also note the way the religious leaders, particularly the Pharisees, dealt with people with similar problems. The contrast will be enlightening.
In the year 31 C. E., while Jesus was on a preaching tour in Galilee, "a certain one of the Pharisees kept asking [Jesus] to dine with him." Jesus was not averse to accepting the invitation. "Accordingly he entered into the house of the Pharisee and reclined at the table. And, Look! A woman who was known in the city to be a sinner learned that he was reclining at a mean in the house of the Pharisee, and she brought an alabaster case of perfumed oil, and taking a position behind at his feet, she wept and started to wet his feet with her tears and she would wipe them off with the hair of her head. Also, she tenderly kissed his feet and greased them with the perfumed oil." - Luke 7:36-38.
Can you picture that? One reference work claims: " The woman (vs.37) took advantage of the social customs that permitted needy people to visit such a banquet to receive some of the leftovers." That might explain how a person could enter uninvited. There may have been others who hoped to glean at the end of the meal. However, this woman's behavior was unusual. She did not watch from the sidelines, waiting for the dinner to break up. She had an unsavory reputation, being "a sinner" of some note, so that Jesus said he knew of "her sins, many though they {were]. - Luke 7:47.
Next time: Continue with the above subject
We need to know how Jesus dealt with people, especially those with serious problems. that should not be hard to learn; the Bible contains many reports of Jesus' encounters with others, some of whom were troubled. Let us also note the way the religious leaders, particularly the Pharisees, dealt with people with similar problems. The contrast will be enlightening.
In the year 31 C. E., while Jesus was on a preaching tour in Galilee, "a certain one of the Pharisees kept asking [Jesus] to dine with him." Jesus was not averse to accepting the invitation. "Accordingly he entered into the house of the Pharisee and reclined at the table. And, Look! A woman who was known in the city to be a sinner learned that he was reclining at a mean in the house of the Pharisee, and she brought an alabaster case of perfumed oil, and taking a position behind at his feet, she wept and started to wet his feet with her tears and she would wipe them off with the hair of her head. Also, she tenderly kissed his feet and greased them with the perfumed oil." - Luke 7:36-38.
Can you picture that? One reference work claims: " The woman (vs.37) took advantage of the social customs that permitted needy people to visit such a banquet to receive some of the leftovers." That might explain how a person could enter uninvited. There may have been others who hoped to glean at the end of the meal. However, this woman's behavior was unusual. She did not watch from the sidelines, waiting for the dinner to break up. She had an unsavory reputation, being "a sinner" of some note, so that Jesus said he knew of "her sins, many though they {were]. - Luke 7:47.
Next time: Continue with the above subject
3.15.2007
"Learn From Me"
Jesus Christ always thought, taught, and acted appropriately. His time on earth was short, but he enjoyed a rewarding and satisfying career, and he remained happy. He gathered disciples and taught them how to worship God, love humanity and conquer the world. (John 16:33) He filled their hearts with hope and "shed light upon life and incorruption through the good news." (2Timothy 1:10) If you count yourself among his disciples, what do you think it means to be a disciple? By considering what Jesus says about disciples, we can learn how to enrich our lives . That involves adopting his viewpoint and applying some basic principles. - Matthew 10:24, 25; Luke 14:26, 27; John 8:31, 32; 13:35; 15:8.
In the Christian Greek Scriptures, the word translated "disciple" basically means one who directs his mind to something, or one who learns. A related word occurs in our theme text, Matthew 11:29: "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. "Yes, a disciple is a learner. The Gospels usually apply the word "disciple" to Jesus' intimated followers, who traveled with him as he preached and who were instructed by him. Some people might simply have accepted Jesus' teachings, even doing so secretly. (Luke 6:17; John 19:38) The Gospel writers also referred to "the disciples of John [the Baptizer] and the disciples of the Pharisees." (Mark 2:18) Since Jesus cautioned his followers to "watch out . . . for the teaching of the Pharisees," we can ask ourselves, ' whose disciple have I become?" - Matthew 16:12.
If we are Jesus' disciples, if we have learned from him, then others ought to feel spiritually refreshed in our presence. They ought to discern that we have become more mild-tempered and lowly in heart. If we have management, responsibilities on our job, are parents, or have shepherding duties in the Christian congregation, do those in our care feel that we treat them as Jesus treated those in his care?
Next time: How Jesus Dealt With People
Jesus Christ always thought, taught, and acted appropriately. His time on earth was short, but he enjoyed a rewarding and satisfying career, and he remained happy. He gathered disciples and taught them how to worship God, love humanity and conquer the world. (John 16:33) He filled their hearts with hope and "shed light upon life and incorruption through the good news." (2Timothy 1:10) If you count yourself among his disciples, what do you think it means to be a disciple? By considering what Jesus says about disciples, we can learn how to enrich our lives . That involves adopting his viewpoint and applying some basic principles. - Matthew 10:24, 25; Luke 14:26, 27; John 8:31, 32; 13:35; 15:8.
In the Christian Greek Scriptures, the word translated "disciple" basically means one who directs his mind to something, or one who learns. A related word occurs in our theme text, Matthew 11:29: "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. "Yes, a disciple is a learner. The Gospels usually apply the word "disciple" to Jesus' intimated followers, who traveled with him as he preached and who were instructed by him. Some people might simply have accepted Jesus' teachings, even doing so secretly. (Luke 6:17; John 19:38) The Gospel writers also referred to "the disciples of John [the Baptizer] and the disciples of the Pharisees." (Mark 2:18) Since Jesus cautioned his followers to "watch out . . . for the teaching of the Pharisees," we can ask ourselves, ' whose disciple have I become?" - Matthew 16:12.
If we are Jesus' disciples, if we have learned from him, then others ought to feel spiritually refreshed in our presence. They ought to discern that we have become more mild-tempered and lowly in heart. If we have management, responsibilities on our job, are parents, or have shepherding duties in the Christian congregation, do those in our care feel that we treat them as Jesus treated those in his care?
Next time: How Jesus Dealt With People
3.14.2007
A Way To Refreshment
You can see that Jesus' yoke, while not weightless, is truly kindly. The load of his teachings and of discipleship is light. After more than 60 years of personal experience, the apostle John, Jesus' dear friend, concurred: " This is what the love Of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome." (1John 5:3) You can be just as confident. The longer you apply Jesus' teachings, the more you will find that what makes life very stressful for many today will not be as distressing to you. You will see that you have found considerable relief. (Psalm 34:8) Yet, there is another aspect to Jesus' kindly yoke that you need to consider. Jesus also mentioned his being "mild-tempered and lowly in heart." How does that fit into our learning from and imitating Jesus? In the following article, we will consider this. - Matthew 11:29.
Next time: "Learn From Me"
You can see that Jesus' yoke, while not weightless, is truly kindly. The load of his teachings and of discipleship is light. After more than 60 years of personal experience, the apostle John, Jesus' dear friend, concurred: " This is what the love Of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome." (1John 5:3) You can be just as confident. The longer you apply Jesus' teachings, the more you will find that what makes life very stressful for many today will not be as distressing to you. You will see that you have found considerable relief. (Psalm 34:8) Yet, there is another aspect to Jesus' kindly yoke that you need to consider. Jesus also mentioned his being "mild-tempered and lowly in heart." How does that fit into our learning from and imitating Jesus? In the following article, we will consider this. - Matthew 11:29.
Next time: "Learn From Me"
3.13.2007
A Way To Refreshment
In the spring of 31 C.E., Jesus gave a lecture that is world-renowned to this day. It is usually called the Sermon on the Mount. It is recorded in Matthew Chapters 5 through 7 and Luke chapter 6, and it summarizes many of his teachings. You can find other teachings of Jesus elsewhere in the Gospels. Much of what he said is self-explanatory, though putting it into practice can be challenging. Why not read those chapters carefully,thoughtfully? Let the power of his ideas influence your thinking and attitude.
Obviously, Jesus' teachings can be arranged in different ways. Let us group key teachings so that there is one for each day of the month, with the goal of putting them to work in your life. How? Well, do not pass over them too quickly. Recall the rich ruler who asked Jesus Christ: " By doing what shall I inherit everlasting life?" When Jesus reviewed vital requirements of God's Law, the man responded that he was already meeting these. Still, he realized that he needed to do more. Jesus called upon him to put forth greater effort to apply godly principles in practical ways, to be an active disciple. Apparently, the man was not ready to go that far. (Luke 18:18-23) Hence, one who wants to learn Jesus' teachings today needs to remember that there is a difference between agreeing with them and actively embracing them, thus reducing stress.
If you truly want to overcome the effect of too much stress in your life, what is going to help? How can you be affected for the better if you increase your attention to spiritual matters, letting such occupy more of your thoughts? is there some concern in your life that you need to attach less importance to, allowing for greater attention to spiritual issues? If you do so, it will add to your happiness now.
Next time: Continue with the above subject
In the spring of 31 C.E., Jesus gave a lecture that is world-renowned to this day. It is usually called the Sermon on the Mount. It is recorded in Matthew Chapters 5 through 7 and Luke chapter 6, and it summarizes many of his teachings. You can find other teachings of Jesus elsewhere in the Gospels. Much of what he said is self-explanatory, though putting it into practice can be challenging. Why not read those chapters carefully,thoughtfully? Let the power of his ideas influence your thinking and attitude.
Obviously, Jesus' teachings can be arranged in different ways. Let us group key teachings so that there is one for each day of the month, with the goal of putting them to work in your life. How? Well, do not pass over them too quickly. Recall the rich ruler who asked Jesus Christ: " By doing what shall I inherit everlasting life?" When Jesus reviewed vital requirements of God's Law, the man responded that he was already meeting these. Still, he realized that he needed to do more. Jesus called upon him to put forth greater effort to apply godly principles in practical ways, to be an active disciple. Apparently, the man was not ready to go that far. (Luke 18:18-23) Hence, one who wants to learn Jesus' teachings today needs to remember that there is a difference between agreeing with them and actively embracing them, thus reducing stress.
If you truly want to overcome the effect of too much stress in your life, what is going to help? How can you be affected for the better if you increase your attention to spiritual matters, letting such occupy more of your thoughts? is there some concern in your life that you need to attach less importance to, allowing for greater attention to spiritual issues? If you do so, it will add to your happiness now.
Next time: Continue with the above subject
3.12.2007
Refreshment Can Be Yours
Please note, Jesus was not saying that people would trade one yoke for another. Rome would still be in control of the land, just as today's governments are in control where Christians live. First-century Roman taxation would not go away. Health and economic problems would remain. Imperfection and sin would continue to affect people. Still, refreshment could be theirs by adopting Jesus' teaching, as it can be ours today.
A key application of Jesus' illustration of the yoke became apparent regarding the disciple-making work. There is no doubt that Jesus' main activity was that of teaching others, with the emphasis being on God's Kingdom. (Matthew 4:23) So when he said, "Take my yoke upon you," that you certainly have involved following after him in that same activity. The Gospel record shows that Jesus moved sincere men to change their occupation, a major concern in the life of many. Remember his call to Peter, Andrew, James and John: "Come after me, and I shall cause you to become fishers of men." (Mark 1:16-20) He demonstrated to those fishermen how satisfying it would be if they did the work that he was putting first in his life, doing so under his guidance and with his help.
Some of his Jewish hearers go the point and applied it. Picture the seaside scene that we read about in Luke 5:1-11. Four fishermen had toiled all night but had caught nothing. Suddenly, their nets were filled! This was not by chance; it resulted from Jesus' intervention. As they looked toward shore, they saw a multitude of people keenly interested in Jesus' teachings. That helped to explain what Jesus told those four: "From now on you will be catching men alive." What was their response? They brought the boats back to land, and abandoned everything and followed him."
Basically, you can respond in a similar way. The work of teaching people Bible truth is still going on. About six million of Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide have accepted Jehovah's invitation to "take [his] yoke upon" them; they have become "fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19) Some make it their full-time occupation; others do as much as they can part-time. All find it refreshing, so their life becomes less stressful. It involves doing what they enjoy, tell others good news - "the good news of the kingdom." (Matthew 4:23) It is always a pleasure to talk about good news but especially this good news. The Bible contains the primary material we need to convince many that they can lead a less stressful life. - 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
To some extent, even people who have just started to learn about God's Kingdom have benefited from Jesus' teachings about how to live. Many can truthfully say that Jesus' teachings have refreshed them and have helped them to turn their lives around. You can establish that for yourself by examining accounts of Jesus' life and ministry, particularly the Gospels written by Matthew, Mark and Luke.
Next time: A Way To Refreshment
Please note, Jesus was not saying that people would trade one yoke for another. Rome would still be in control of the land, just as today's governments are in control where Christians live. First-century Roman taxation would not go away. Health and economic problems would remain. Imperfection and sin would continue to affect people. Still, refreshment could be theirs by adopting Jesus' teaching, as it can be ours today.
A key application of Jesus' illustration of the yoke became apparent regarding the disciple-making work. There is no doubt that Jesus' main activity was that of teaching others, with the emphasis being on God's Kingdom. (Matthew 4:23) So when he said, "Take my yoke upon you," that you certainly have involved following after him in that same activity. The Gospel record shows that Jesus moved sincere men to change their occupation, a major concern in the life of many. Remember his call to Peter, Andrew, James and John: "Come after me, and I shall cause you to become fishers of men." (Mark 1:16-20) He demonstrated to those fishermen how satisfying it would be if they did the work that he was putting first in his life, doing so under his guidance and with his help.
Some of his Jewish hearers go the point and applied it. Picture the seaside scene that we read about in Luke 5:1-11. Four fishermen had toiled all night but had caught nothing. Suddenly, their nets were filled! This was not by chance; it resulted from Jesus' intervention. As they looked toward shore, they saw a multitude of people keenly interested in Jesus' teachings. That helped to explain what Jesus told those four: "From now on you will be catching men alive." What was their response? They brought the boats back to land, and abandoned everything and followed him."
Basically, you can respond in a similar way. The work of teaching people Bible truth is still going on. About six million of Jehovah's Witnesses worldwide have accepted Jehovah's invitation to "take [his] yoke upon" them; they have become "fishers of men." (Matthew 4:19) Some make it their full-time occupation; others do as much as they can part-time. All find it refreshing, so their life becomes less stressful. It involves doing what they enjoy, tell others good news - "the good news of the kingdom." (Matthew 4:23) It is always a pleasure to talk about good news but especially this good news. The Bible contains the primary material we need to convince many that they can lead a less stressful life. - 2 Timothy 3:16, 17.
To some extent, even people who have just started to learn about God's Kingdom have benefited from Jesus' teachings about how to live. Many can truthfully say that Jesus' teachings have refreshed them and have helped them to turn their lives around. You can establish that for yourself by examining accounts of Jesus' life and ministry, particularly the Gospels written by Matthew, Mark and Luke.
Next time: A Way To Refreshment
3.11.2007
Under The Yoke
Did you note that in the words quoted from Matthew 11:28, 29, Jesus said: "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me." Back then, a common man might have felt as though he were working under a yoke. From ancient times, the yoke had been illustrative of slavery or servitude. (Genesis 27:40; Leviticus 26:13; Deuteronomy 28:48) Many of the day laborers whom Jesus met worked with an actual yoke on their shoulders, carrying heavy burdens. Depending on how a yoke was fashioned, it could be easy on the neck and shoulders or it could chafe. As a carpenter, Jesus may have made yokes, and he would have known how to shape one that was "kindly." Perhaps he lined the contact points with leather or cloth to make the yoke as comfortable as possible.
When Jesus said, "Take my yoke upon you," he could have been likening himself to one who provided well-made yokes that would be "kindly" to a workman's neck and shoulders. Thus, Jesus added: " My load is light." this signified that the yoke bar was not unpleasant to use, and the work was not slavish either. Granted, by inviting his listeners to accept his yoke, Jesus was not offering immediate relief from all oppressive conditions then current. Still, the change of viewpoint he presented would bring considerable refreshment. Adjustments in their life-style and way of doing things would relieve them too. More to the point, a clear and solid hope would help them to find life less stressful.
Next time: Refreshment Can Be Yours
Did you note that in the words quoted from Matthew 11:28, 29, Jesus said: "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me." Back then, a common man might have felt as though he were working under a yoke. From ancient times, the yoke had been illustrative of slavery or servitude. (Genesis 27:40; Leviticus 26:13; Deuteronomy 28:48) Many of the day laborers whom Jesus met worked with an actual yoke on their shoulders, carrying heavy burdens. Depending on how a yoke was fashioned, it could be easy on the neck and shoulders or it could chafe. As a carpenter, Jesus may have made yokes, and he would have known how to shape one that was "kindly." Perhaps he lined the contact points with leather or cloth to make the yoke as comfortable as possible.
When Jesus said, "Take my yoke upon you," he could have been likening himself to one who provided well-made yokes that would be "kindly" to a workman's neck and shoulders. Thus, Jesus added: " My load is light." this signified that the yoke bar was not unpleasant to use, and the work was not slavish either. Granted, by inviting his listeners to accept his yoke, Jesus was not offering immediate relief from all oppressive conditions then current. Still, the change of viewpoint he presented would bring considerable refreshment. Adjustments in their life-style and way of doing things would relieve them too. More to the point, a clear and solid hope would help them to find life less stressful.
Next time: Refreshment Can Be Yours
3.10.2007
Is Your Life Too Stressful?
This matter may be of concern to you because your job or family situation may weigh heavily upon you. Or other responsibilities may seem overwhelming. If so, you are like the sincere ones Jesus met and helped. For example, consider the problem of earning a living. Many struggle with that today, and so did many in Jesus' time.
Back then, a laborer toiled 12 hours a day, 6 days a week, usually for just one denarius for the whole day. (Matthew 20:2-10) How does that compare with your wages or those of your friends? It can be challenging to compare ancient wages with those of modern times. One way is to consider purchasing power, what money can buy. One scholar says that in Jesus' day a loaf of bread made with four cups of wheat flour cost about one hour's pay. Another scholar says that a cup of good wine cost about two hour's pay. You can see from such details that people at that time toiled long and hard to keep living. They needed relief and refreshment, as we do. If you are employed, you may feel pressured to produce more. Often we do not find time to make a well-thought-out decisions. you may admit that you long for relief.
Clearly, Jesus' invitation to all who were "toiling and loaded down" would have been most appealing to many listeners back then. ( Matthew 4:25; Mark3:7, 8) And recall that Jesus added the promise, "I will refresh you." That same promise is in effect today. It can apply to us if we are "toiling and loaded down." And it can apply to our loved ones whose situation is likely similar.
There are other things weighing on people. Raising children is a major challenge . Even being a child is can be challenging. An increasing number of individuals of all ages confront mental and physical health problems. And while people may live longer, the elderly have special issues to contend with, despite advances in medicine. - Ecclesiastes 12:1.
Next time: Under The Yoke
This matter may be of concern to you because your job or family situation may weigh heavily upon you. Or other responsibilities may seem overwhelming. If so, you are like the sincere ones Jesus met and helped. For example, consider the problem of earning a living. Many struggle with that today, and so did many in Jesus' time.
Back then, a laborer toiled 12 hours a day, 6 days a week, usually for just one denarius for the whole day. (Matthew 20:2-10) How does that compare with your wages or those of your friends? It can be challenging to compare ancient wages with those of modern times. One way is to consider purchasing power, what money can buy. One scholar says that in Jesus' day a loaf of bread made with four cups of wheat flour cost about one hour's pay. Another scholar says that a cup of good wine cost about two hour's pay. You can see from such details that people at that time toiled long and hard to keep living. They needed relief and refreshment, as we do. If you are employed, you may feel pressured to produce more. Often we do not find time to make a well-thought-out decisions. you may admit that you long for relief.
Clearly, Jesus' invitation to all who were "toiling and loaded down" would have been most appealing to many listeners back then. ( Matthew 4:25; Mark3:7, 8) And recall that Jesus added the promise, "I will refresh you." That same promise is in effect today. It can apply to us if we are "toiling and loaded down." And it can apply to our loved ones whose situation is likely similar.
There are other things weighing on people. Raising children is a major challenge . Even being a child is can be challenging. An increasing number of individuals of all ages confront mental and physical health problems. And while people may live longer, the elderly have special issues to contend with, despite advances in medicine. - Ecclesiastes 12:1.
Next time: Under The Yoke
3.09.2007
Relief From Stress A Practical Remedy
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; J0hn 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, including 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, 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 in 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.
Next time: Is Your Life Too Stressful?
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; J0hn 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, including 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, 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 in 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.
Next time: Is Your Life Too Stressful?
3.08.2007
"Just As The Days Of Noah Were"
Jesus Christ said: " Just as the days of Noah were, so the presence of the Son of man will be." (Matthew 24:37) Today, Christians are likewise preacher of righteousness, urging people to repent. (2 Peter 3:5-9) Given that analogy, we might wonder what went through Noah's mind before the deluge. Did he ever feel that his preaching work was useless? Was he tired at times? The Bible does not say. We are simply told the Noah obeyed God.
DO you see the relevance of Noah's situation to ours? He obeyed Jehovah despite opposition and hardship. That is why Jehovah judged him righteous. Noah's family did not know exactly when God would bring the Deluge, but they knew that it would come. Faith in God's word sustained Noah through years of labor and what may have seemed to be fruitless preaching. Indeed, we are told: " By faith Noah, after being given divine warning of things not yet beheld, showed godly fear and constructed an ark for the saving of his household; and through this faith he condemned the world, and he became an heir of the righteousness that is according to faith." - Hebrews 11:7.
How did Noah acquire such faith? He evidently too time to ponder over everything he knew about Jehovah and let himself be guided by that knowledge. Undoubtedly, Noah talked to God in prayer. In fact, he became so intimately acquainted with Jehovah that he 'walked with God.' As the family head, Noah gladly devoted time and loving attention to his household. This included caring for the spiritual interests of his wife, his three sons, and his daughters- in - law.
Like Noah, true Christians today know that Jehovah will soon bring an end to this godless system of things. We do not know that day or hour, but we realize that imitating the faith and obedience of this "preacher of righteousness" will result in "the preserving alive of the soul." - Hebrews 10:36-39.
Jesus Christ said: " Just as the days of Noah were, so the presence of the Son of man will be." (Matthew 24:37) Today, Christians are likewise preacher of righteousness, urging people to repent. (2 Peter 3:5-9) Given that analogy, we might wonder what went through Noah's mind before the deluge. Did he ever feel that his preaching work was useless? Was he tired at times? The Bible does not say. We are simply told the Noah obeyed God.
DO you see the relevance of Noah's situation to ours? He obeyed Jehovah despite opposition and hardship. That is why Jehovah judged him righteous. Noah's family did not know exactly when God would bring the Deluge, but they knew that it would come. Faith in God's word sustained Noah through years of labor and what may have seemed to be fruitless preaching. Indeed, we are told: " By faith Noah, after being given divine warning of things not yet beheld, showed godly fear and constructed an ark for the saving of his household; and through this faith he condemned the world, and he became an heir of the righteousness that is according to faith." - Hebrews 11:7.
How did Noah acquire such faith? He evidently too time to ponder over everything he knew about Jehovah and let himself be guided by that knowledge. Undoubtedly, Noah talked to God in prayer. In fact, he became so intimately acquainted with Jehovah that he 'walked with God.' As the family head, Noah gladly devoted time and loving attention to his household. This included caring for the spiritual interests of his wife, his three sons, and his daughters- in - law.
Like Noah, true Christians today know that Jehovah will soon bring an end to this godless system of things. We do not know that day or hour, but we realize that imitating the faith and obedience of this "preacher of righteousness" will result in "the preserving alive of the soul." - Hebrews 10:36-39.
3.07.2007
Preserved Through The Flood
Shortly before the downpour began, God told Noah to enter the completed Ark. When Noah's family and the animals were aboard, "Jehovah shut the door," closing out any derisive jeers. When the flood came, the disobedient angels apparently dematerialized and escaped destruction. But what about others? Why, every living creature on the dry ground outside the ark, including the Nephilim, perished! Only Noah and his family survived. - Genesis 7:1-23.
Noah and those of his household spent a lunar year and ten days in the ark. They were busy feeding and watering the animals, removing waste and keeping track of time. Genesis dates all the phases of the Flood precisely, like a ship's log, reflecting the veracity of the account. -Genesis 7:11, 17, 24; 8:3-14.
While in the ark, Noah doubtless led his family in spiritual discussions and thanks-giving to God. Evidently by means of Noah and his family, pre-flood history was preserved. Reliable oral traditions or written historical documents in their possession would provide fine material for profitable consideration during the Deluge.
How glad Noah and his family must have been to step out on dry land once again! The first thing he did was to erect an altar and act in a priestly capacity for his family, offering sacrifices to the One who had saved them. - Genesis 8:18-20.
Next time: "Just As The Days Of Noah Were"
Shortly before the downpour began, God told Noah to enter the completed Ark. When Noah's family and the animals were aboard, "Jehovah shut the door," closing out any derisive jeers. When the flood came, the disobedient angels apparently dematerialized and escaped destruction. But what about others? Why, every living creature on the dry ground outside the ark, including the Nephilim, perished! Only Noah and his family survived. - Genesis 7:1-23.
Noah and those of his household spent a lunar year and ten days in the ark. They were busy feeding and watering the animals, removing waste and keeping track of time. Genesis dates all the phases of the Flood precisely, like a ship's log, reflecting the veracity of the account. -Genesis 7:11, 17, 24; 8:3-14.
While in the ark, Noah doubtless led his family in spiritual discussions and thanks-giving to God. Evidently by means of Noah and his family, pre-flood history was preserved. Reliable oral traditions or written historical documents in their possession would provide fine material for profitable consideration during the Deluge.
How glad Noah and his family must have been to step out on dry land once again! The first thing he did was to erect an altar and act in a priestly capacity for his family, offering sacrifices to the One who had saved them. - Genesis 8:18-20.
Next time: "Just As The Days Of Noah Were"
3.06.2007
" A Preacher Of Righteousness"
Besides building an ark, Noah sounded a warning and served God faithfully as "a preacher of righteousness." But the people "took no note until the flood cam and swept them all away." - 2 Peter 2:5; Matthew 24:38, 39.
Given the spiritual and moral bankruptcy of those days, it is easy to see how Noah's family could have become the laughing stock of incredulous neighbors and the object of abuse and ridicule. People mist have considered them to be crazy. However, Noah was successful in giving his household spiritual encouragement and support, for they never adopted the violent, immoral, defiant ways of their godless contemporaries. By his speech and actions, which demonstrated his faith, Noah condemned the world of that time.- Hebrews 11:7.
Next time: Preserved Through The Flood
Besides building an ark, Noah sounded a warning and served God faithfully as "a preacher of righteousness." But the people "took no note until the flood cam and swept them all away." - 2 Peter 2:5; Matthew 24:38, 39.
Given the spiritual and moral bankruptcy of those days, it is easy to see how Noah's family could have become the laughing stock of incredulous neighbors and the object of abuse and ridicule. People mist have considered them to be crazy. However, Noah was successful in giving his household spiritual encouragement and support, for they never adopted the violent, immoral, defiant ways of their godless contemporaries. By his speech and actions, which demonstrated his faith, Noah condemned the world of that time.- Hebrews 11:7.
Next time: Preserved Through The Flood
3.05.2007
"Faultless Among His Contemporaries"
Evil was so rife that God was determined to destroy mankind. But the inspired account states:" Noah found favor in the eyes of Jehovah. . . N oah was a righteous man. He proved himself faultless among his contemporaries. Noah walked with the true God." (Genesis 6:8, 9) How was it possible to 'walk with God' in a godless world fit only for destruction?
Doubtless, Noah learned much from his father, Lamech, a man of faith and a contemporary of Adam. When giving his son the name Noah (thought to mean "Rest," or "Consolation"), Lamech prophesied: "This one will bring us comfort from our work and from the pain of our hands resulting from the ground which Jehovah has cursed." THat prophecy was fulfilled when God lifted his curse that was on the ground. - Genesis 5:29; 8:21)
Having godly parents is no guarantee of spirituality, for each individual must establish his own relationship with Jehovah. Noah 'walked with God' by pursuing a course that had divine approval. What Noah learned about God move him to serve Him. Noah's faith did not waver when he was informed of God's purpose 'to bring all flesh to ruin in the deluge.' - Genesis 6:13, 17.
Confident that this unprecedented disaster would occur, Noah obeyed Jehovah's command: " Make for yourself an ark out of wood of a resinous tree. You will make compartment's in the ark, and you must cover it inside and outside with tar." (Genesis 6:14) meeting God's specifications for the ark was no small task. Nevertheless, "Noah proceeded to do according to all that God has commanded him." In fact, "he did just so." (Genesis 6:22) Noah did this with the help of his wife and their sons Shem, Ham and Japheth and their wives. Jehovah blessed such faith. What excellent examples for families today! What would building the ark involve? Jehovah directed Noah to construct a huge watertight, three-story, wooden chest, 437 feet long by 73 feet wide by 44 feet high. (Genesis 6:15, 16) Such a vessel would have had a capacity similar to that of various present-day cargo vessels.
What a colossal undertaking! Very likely,it meant felling thousand of trees, hauling them to the construction site, and cutting them into planks or beams. It meant building scaffolding, making pins or pegs, obtaining tar for waterproofing, procuring containers and tools, and so on. The work may have required negotiations with merchants and payment for goods and services. It apparently called for skill in carpentry so as to fit the timbers accurately and build an adequately strong structure. And just think - construction probably lasted some 50 or 60 years!
Noah's attention would next have to turn to the preparation of sufficient food and fodder. (Genesis 6:21) He would have to assemble and marshal a host of animals into the ark. Noah carried out all that God has commanded, and the work was finished. (Genesis 6:22) Jehovah's blessing ensured its complete success.
Next time: "A Preacher Of Righteousness"
Evil was so rife that God was determined to destroy mankind. But the inspired account states:" Noah found favor in the eyes of Jehovah. . . N oah was a righteous man. He proved himself faultless among his contemporaries. Noah walked with the true God." (Genesis 6:8, 9) How was it possible to 'walk with God' in a godless world fit only for destruction?
Doubtless, Noah learned much from his father, Lamech, a man of faith and a contemporary of Adam. When giving his son the name Noah (thought to mean "Rest," or "Consolation"), Lamech prophesied: "This one will bring us comfort from our work and from the pain of our hands resulting from the ground which Jehovah has cursed." THat prophecy was fulfilled when God lifted his curse that was on the ground. - Genesis 5:29; 8:21)
Having godly parents is no guarantee of spirituality, for each individual must establish his own relationship with Jehovah. Noah 'walked with God' by pursuing a course that had divine approval. What Noah learned about God move him to serve Him. Noah's faith did not waver when he was informed of God's purpose 'to bring all flesh to ruin in the deluge.' - Genesis 6:13, 17.
Confident that this unprecedented disaster would occur, Noah obeyed Jehovah's command: " Make for yourself an ark out of wood of a resinous tree. You will make compartment's in the ark, and you must cover it inside and outside with tar." (Genesis 6:14) meeting God's specifications for the ark was no small task. Nevertheless, "Noah proceeded to do according to all that God has commanded him." In fact, "he did just so." (Genesis 6:22) Noah did this with the help of his wife and their sons Shem, Ham and Japheth and their wives. Jehovah blessed such faith. What excellent examples for families today! What would building the ark involve? Jehovah directed Noah to construct a huge watertight, three-story, wooden chest, 437 feet long by 73 feet wide by 44 feet high. (Genesis 6:15, 16) Such a vessel would have had a capacity similar to that of various present-day cargo vessels.
What a colossal undertaking! Very likely,it meant felling thousand of trees, hauling them to the construction site, and cutting them into planks or beams. It meant building scaffolding, making pins or pegs, obtaining tar for waterproofing, procuring containers and tools, and so on. The work may have required negotiations with merchants and payment for goods and services. It apparently called for skill in carpentry so as to fit the timbers accurately and build an adequately strong structure. And just think - construction probably lasted some 50 or 60 years!
Noah's attention would next have to turn to the preparation of sufficient food and fodder. (Genesis 6:21) He would have to assemble and marshal a host of animals into the ark. Noah carried out all that God has commanded, and the work was finished. (Genesis 6:22) Jehovah's blessing ensured its complete success.
Next time: "A Preacher Of Righteousness"
3.04.2007
The World Of Noah's Day
Bible chronology places Noah's birth in 2970 B.C.E. - 126 years after Adam's death. By Noah's day, the earth was full of violence, and the majority of Adam's descendants chose to follow their progenitor's wayward example. Thus, "Jehovah saw that the badness of man was abundant in the earth and every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only bad all the time." - Genesis 6:5, 11, 12.
Human rebellion was not the only reason for Jehovah's displeasure. The Genesis account explains: "The sons of the true God began to notice the daughters of men, that they were good-looking; and they went taking wives for themselves, namely, all whom they chose... The Nephilim proved to be in the earth in those days, and also after that, when the sons of the true God continued to have relations with the daughters of men and they bore sons to them, they were the mighty ones who were of old, the men of fame." (Genesis 6:2-4) Comparison of these verses with a statement recorded by the apostle Peter indicates that "the sons of the true God" were disobedient angels. The Nephilim were the hybrid offspring of illicit unions between women and materialized renegade angels. - 1 Peter 3:19, 20.
"Nephilim," meaning "Fellers," denotes individuals who caused others to fall. They were tyrannical bullies, and the sin of their lustful fathers is likened to the perversions of Sodom and Gomorrah. (Jude 6, 7) Together, they whipped up intolerable wickedness on earth.
Next time: "Faultless Among His Contemporaries"
Bible chronology places Noah's birth in 2970 B.C.E. - 126 years after Adam's death. By Noah's day, the earth was full of violence, and the majority of Adam's descendants chose to follow their progenitor's wayward example. Thus, "Jehovah saw that the badness of man was abundant in the earth and every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only bad all the time." - Genesis 6:5, 11, 12.
Human rebellion was not the only reason for Jehovah's displeasure. The Genesis account explains: "The sons of the true God began to notice the daughters of men, that they were good-looking; and they went taking wives for themselves, namely, all whom they chose... The Nephilim proved to be in the earth in those days, and also after that, when the sons of the true God continued to have relations with the daughters of men and they bore sons to them, they were the mighty ones who were of old, the men of fame." (Genesis 6:2-4) Comparison of these verses with a statement recorded by the apostle Peter indicates that "the sons of the true God" were disobedient angels. The Nephilim were the hybrid offspring of illicit unions between women and materialized renegade angels. - 1 Peter 3:19, 20.
"Nephilim," meaning "Fellers," denotes individuals who caused others to fall. They were tyrannical bullies, and the sin of their lustful fathers is likened to the perversions of Sodom and Gomorrah. (Jude 6, 7) Together, they whipped up intolerable wickedness on earth.
Next time: "Faultless Among His Contemporaries"
3.03.2007
Noah's Faith Condemns The World
Have you heard of Noah, a God-fearing man who built an ark for the preservation of life during a global flood? Despite its antiquity, this story is familiar to millions. What many do not realize, however, is that Noah's life has meaning for all of us. Why should we be interested in an account that is thousands of years old? Is there a similarity between Noah's situation and our own? If there is, how can we benefit from his example?
Next time: The World Of Noah's Day
Have you heard of Noah, a God-fearing man who built an ark for the preservation of life during a global flood? Despite its antiquity, this story is familiar to millions. What many do not realize, however, is that Noah's life has meaning for all of us. Why should we be interested in an account that is thousands of years old? Is there a similarity between Noah's situation and our own? If there is, how can we benefit from his example?
Next time: The World Of Noah's Day
3.02.2007
"Let Your Love Be Without Hypocrisy"
"When you do good to other people," admonished Jesus, " don't hire a trumpeter to go in front of you - like those play-actors in the synagogues and streets who make sure that men admire them." (Matthew 6:2, Phillips) " Let your love be without hypocrisy," (1Timothy 1:5) If our love and faith are not genuine - not tainted by selfishness and deception - others will trust us. We will be a source of real strength and encouragement to those around us. (Philippians 2:4; 1John 4:20, 21) And above all, we will have Jehovah's approval.
Hypocrisy, on the other hand, will ultimately prove death-dealing to those who practice it. In the end, hypocrisy will be openly exposed. "There is nothing covered over that will not become uncovered," said Jesus Christ, " and secret that will not become known." (Matthew 10:26; Luke 12:2) Wise King Solomon declared: " The true God himself will bring every sort of work into the judgment in relation too every hidden thing as to whether it is good or bad." -Ecclesiastes 2:14.
Meanwhile, why should we allow the hypocrisy of others to affect us to the point that we are deprived of the genuine love of true friends? We can be cautious without becoming overly suspicious . And by all means, let us keep our own love and faith free of hypocrisy. - James 3:17; 1 Peter 1:22.
"When you do good to other people," admonished Jesus, " don't hire a trumpeter to go in front of you - like those play-actors in the synagogues and streets who make sure that men admire them." (Matthew 6:2, Phillips) " Let your love be without hypocrisy," (1Timothy 1:5) If our love and faith are not genuine - not tainted by selfishness and deception - others will trust us. We will be a source of real strength and encouragement to those around us. (Philippians 2:4; 1John 4:20, 21) And above all, we will have Jehovah's approval.
Hypocrisy, on the other hand, will ultimately prove death-dealing to those who practice it. In the end, hypocrisy will be openly exposed. "There is nothing covered over that will not become uncovered," said Jesus Christ, " and secret that will not become known." (Matthew 10:26; Luke 12:2) Wise King Solomon declared: " The true God himself will bring every sort of work into the judgment in relation too every hidden thing as to whether it is good or bad." -Ecclesiastes 2:14.
Meanwhile, why should we allow the hypocrisy of others to affect us to the point that we are deprived of the genuine love of true friends? We can be cautious without becoming overly suspicious . And by all means, let us keep our own love and faith free of hypocrisy. - James 3:17; 1 Peter 1:22.
3.01.2007
"Stop Judging"
How easy it is for imperfect humans to point out other people's failings while ignoring their own! This inclination, though, makes us vulnerable to hypocrisy. "Hypocrite!" Jesus said. "First extract the rafter from your own eye, and then you will see clearly how to extract the straw from your brother's eye." We do well to heed counsel: "Stop judging that you may not be judged; for with what judgment you are judging, you will be judged....Why, then, do you look at the straw in your brother's eye, but do not consider the rafter in your own eye?" - Matthew 7:1-5.
When others at times do things that seem hypocritical, we must be careful not to label them hastily as hypocrites. The apostle Peter, for example, "went withdrawing and separating himself" from Gentile fellow believers in Antioch so as to please visitors of Jewish background from Jerusalem. Barnabas 'was also led along with Peter and others in this pretense.' Peter did this despite the fact that he had been privileged to open the way for Gentiles to be admitted to the Christian congregation. (Galatians 2:11-14; Acts 10:24-28, 34) But this slip on the part of Barnabas and Peter surely did not put them in the same category as the scribes and Pharisees or Judah Iscariot.
Next time: "Let Your Love Be Without Hypocrisy"
How easy it is for imperfect humans to point out other people's failings while ignoring their own! This inclination, though, makes us vulnerable to hypocrisy. "Hypocrite!" Jesus said. "First extract the rafter from your own eye, and then you will see clearly how to extract the straw from your brother's eye." We do well to heed counsel: "Stop judging that you may not be judged; for with what judgment you are judging, you will be judged....Why, then, do you look at the straw in your brother's eye, but do not consider the rafter in your own eye?" - Matthew 7:1-5.
When others at times do things that seem hypocritical, we must be careful not to label them hastily as hypocrites. The apostle Peter, for example, "went withdrawing and separating himself" from Gentile fellow believers in Antioch so as to please visitors of Jewish background from Jerusalem. Barnabas 'was also led along with Peter and others in this pretense.' Peter did this despite the fact that he had been privileged to open the way for Gentiles to be admitted to the Christian congregation. (Galatians 2:11-14; Acts 10:24-28, 34) But this slip on the part of Barnabas and Peter surely did not put them in the same category as the scribes and Pharisees or Judah Iscariot.
Next time: "Let Your Love Be Without Hypocrisy"
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