What Is Loyalty?

"Loyalty" as used in the Hebrew Scriptures is kindness that lovingly attaches itself to an object and does not let go until its purpose in connection with that object is realized. More is involved than faithfulness. After all, a person might be faithful merely out of a sense of duty. In contrast, loyalty is rooted in love. Then, too, the word "faithful" can be applied to inanimate things. For example, the psalmist called the moon "a faithful witness in the skies" because of its regular nightly appearance. (Psalm 89*:37) But the moon cannot be described as being loyal. Why? Because loyalty is an expression of love-something that inanimate things cannot display.

In its Scriptural sense, loyalty is warm. Its very manifestation indicates that a relationship exists between the person who displays the quality and the one toward whom it is shown. Such loyalty is not fickle. It is not like waves of the sea blown about by changing winds. On the contrary, loyalty, or loyal love, has the stability and strength to overcome the most daunting of obstacles.

Granted, such loyalty is rare today. All too often, close companions are "disposed to break one another to pieces." Increasingly, we hear of spouses who abandon their mates. (Proverbs 18:24; Malachi 2:14-16) Treacherous acts are so common that we might find ourselves echoing the words of the prophet Micah: "The loyal one has perished from the earth." (Micah 7:2) Although humans often fail to show loving-kindness, loyalty outstandingly characterizes Jehovah. In fact, the best way to learn just what loyalty entails is to examine how Jehovah displays this grand facet of his love.

Next time: Jehovah's Matchless Loyalty

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

"You Alone Are Loyal"

KING DAVID was no stranger to disloyalty. At one point his tumultuous reign was beset by intrigue, with members of his own nation plotting against him. Furthermore, David was betrayed by some of those whom we would expect to have been his closest companions. Consider Michal, David's first wife. Initially, she "was in love with David," no doubt supporting him as his kingly endeavors. Later, however, she "began to despise him in her heart," even considering David to be "just as one of the empty-headed men." -1 Samuel 18:20; 2 Samuel 6:16, 20.

Then there was David's personal adviser, Ahithophel. His counsel was esteemed as if it were the direct word of Jehovah. (2 Samuel 16:23) But, in time, this trusted confidant turned traitor and joined an organized rebellion against David. And who was the instigator of the conspiracy? Absalom, David's own son! That scheming opportunist "kept stealing the hearts of the men of Israel," setting himself up as a rival king. Absalom's revolt gained so much momentum that King David was forced to flee for his life. -2 Samuel 15:1-6, 12-17.

Was there no one who remained loyal to David? Throughout all his adversity, David knew that indeed there was . Who? None other than Jehovah God. "With someone loyal you will act in loyalty," David said of Jehovah. (2 Samuel 22:26) what is loyalty, and how does Jehovah provide that loftiest example of this quality?

Next time: What Is Loyalty?

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

"Become Radiant Over The Goodness Of Jehovah"

When Satan tempted Eve in the garden of Eden, he began by subtly undermining her trust in Jehovah's goodness. Jehovah had told Adam: "From every tree of the garden you may eat to satisfaction." Of the thousands of trees that must have graced that garden, only one was placed off-limits by Jehovah. Yet, notice how Satan worded his first question to Eve: "Is it really go that God said that you must not eat from every tree of the garden?" (Genesis 2:9, 16; 3:1) Satan twisted Jehovah's words to make Eve think that Jehovah was holding back something good. Sadly, the tactic worked. Eve, like so many men and women after her, began to doubt the goodness of God, who had given her everything she had.

We know the depth of sorrow and misery brought on by such doubts. So let us take to heart the words of Jeremiah 31:12: "They will certainly . . . become radiant over the goodness of Jehovah." Jehovah's goodness should indeed make us radiant with joy. We need never doubt the motives of our God, who is so full of goodness. We may trust in him completely, for he wants nothing but good for those who love him.

Further, when we get an opportunity to talk to others about God's goodness, we are delighted. Regarding Jehovah's people, Psalm 145:7 says: "With the mention of the abundance of your goodness they will bubble over." Every day that we live, we benefit in some way from Jehovah's goodness. Why not make it a practice each day to thank Jehovah for his goodness, being as specific as possible? Thinking about that quality, thanking Jehovah for it daily, and telling others about it will help us to imitate our good God. And as we seek was to do good, as Jehovah does, we will draw ever closer to him. The aged apostle John wrote: "Beloved one, be an imitator, not of what is bad, but of what is good. He that does good originates with God." -3 John 11.

Jehovah's goodness is also associated with other qualities. For example, God is "abundant in loving-kindness," or loyal love. (Exodus 34:6) This quality is more specific in its focus than its goodness, for Jehovah expresses it particularly toward his faithful servants. In the next chapter, we will learn how he does so.

Next time:"You Alone Are Loyal"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Additional Facets Of Jehovah's Goodness

Jehovah's goodness involves more then generosity. God told Moses "I myself shall cause all my goodness to pass before your face, and I will declare the name of Jehovah before you. Later the account says Jehovah went passing by before his face and declaring ' Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth.' " (Exodus 33:19; 34:6) So Jehovah's goodness embraces a number of fine qualities. Let us consider just two of these.

"Gracious." This quality tells us much about Jehovah's manner of dealing with his creatures. Instead of being brusque, cold or tyrannical, as is often true of the powerful, Jehovah is gentle and kind. For example, Jehovah said to Abram: "Raise your eyes, please, and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward." (Genesis 13:14) Many translations omit the word "please." But Bible scholars note that the wording in the original Hebrew includes a word particle that changes the statement from a command to a polite request. There are other, similar instances. (Genesis 31:12; Ezekiel 8:5) Imagine, the Sovereign of the universe says "please" to mere humans! In a world of where harshness, pushiness and rudeness are so common, is it not refreshing to contemplate the graciousness of our God, Jehovah?
"Abundant in . . .truth." Dishonesty has become the way of the world today. But the Bible reminds us: "God is not a man that he should tell lies." (Numbers 23:19) In fact, Titus 1:2 says that "God . . . cannot lie." He is far too good for that. Thus, Jehovah's promises are completely reliable; his words, always sure of fulfillment. Jehovah is even called "the God of truth." (Psalm 31:5) Not only does he refrain from telling falsehoods but he dispenses an abundance of truth. He is not closed, guarded or secretive; rather, he generously enlightens his faithful servants from his boundless store of wisdom. He even teaches them how to lie by the truths he dispenses so that they may "go walking in the truth." (3 John 3) In general, how should Jehovah's goodness affect us individually?

Next time: "Become Radiant Over The Goodness Of Jehovah"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

Jesus said: "It is written, 'Man must live, not on bread alone, but on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah's mouth.' " (Matthew 4;4) Indeed, Jehovah's spiritual provisions can do us even more good than can the physical kind, for they lead to everlasting life. In Chapter 8 of this book, we noted that Jehovah has used his restorative power during these last days to bring into being a spiritual paradise. A key feature of that paradise is the abundance of spiritual food.

In one of the Bible's great restoration prophecies, the prophet Ezekiel was given a vision of a restored and glorified temple. From that temple flowed a stream of water, widening and deepening as it went until it became a "double-size torrent." Wherever it flowed, that river brought blessings. On its banks flourished a crop of trees that provided food and healing. And the river even brought to life and productivity to the salty, lifeless Dead Sea! (Ezekiel 47:1-12) But what did all of that mean?

The vision meant that Jehovah would restore his arrangement for pure worship, as pictured by the temple Ezekiel saw. Like that visionary river, God's provisions for life would flow out to his people in ever-greater abundance. Since the restoration of pure worship in 1919, Jehovah has blessed his people with life-giving provisions. How? Well, Bible literature, meetings and conventions have all served to bring vital truths to millions. By such means Jehovah has taught people about the most important of his provisions for life-Christ's ransom sacrifice, which brings a clean standing before Jehovah and the hope of everlasting life to all those who truly love and fear God. Hence, throughout these last days, while the world has suffered famine, Jehovah's people have enjoyed a spiritual feast. -Isaiah 65:13.

But Ezekiel's visionary river does not stop flowing when this old system of things meets its end. On the contrary, it will flow even more abundantly during Christ's Millennial Reign. Then, by means of the Messianic Kingdom, Jehovah will apply the full value of Jesus' sacrifice, gradually lifting faithful mankind to perfection. How we will exult over Jehovah's goodness!

Next time: Additional Facets Of Jehovah's Goodness

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

Evidence Of Jehovah's Abundant Goodness

Everyone who has ever lived has benefited from Jehovah's goodness. Psalm 145:9 says: "Jehovah is good to all." What are some examples of his all-embracing goodness? The Bible says: "He did not leave himself without witness in that he did good, giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling your hearts to the full with food and good cheer." (Acts 14:17) Have you ever felt your spirits lift when enjoying a delightful mean? Were it not for Jehovah's goodness in designing this earth with its ever-recycling fresh water supply and "fruitful seasons" to produce an abundance of food, there would be no meals, Jehovah has directed such goodness not just to those who love him but to everyone. Jesus said: "He makes his sun rise upon wicked people and good and makes it rain upon righteous people and unrighteous." -Matthew 5:45.

Many take for granted the sheer generosity that is heaped upon mankind because of the continued action of the sun, the rain and the fruitful seasons. For example, consider the apple. Throughout the temperate regions of the earth, it is a common fruit. Yet, it is beautiful, delicious to eat and full of refreshing water and vital nutrients. Did you know that worldwide there are some 7,50 different varieties of apples, ranging in color from red to gold to yellow to green and in size from slightly larger than a cherry to the size of a grapefruit? If you hold a tine apple seed in your hand, it looks insignificant. But from it grows one of the loveliest trees. (Song of Solomon 2:3) Every spring the apple tree is crowned with a glorious halo of blossoms; every autumn it produces fruit. Each year-for up to 75 years-the average tree will yield enough fruit to fill 20 cartons to a weight of 42 pounds each!

In his infinite goodness, Jehovah has given us a body that is "wonderfully made," with senses designed to help us perceiver his works and delight in them. (Psalm 139:14) Think again of those scenes described at the outset of this chapter. What sights bring joy to such moments? The flushed cheeks of a delighted child. The curtains of rain descending on the fields. The reds, golds and violets of a sunset. The human eye is designed to detect over 300,000 different colors! And our sense of hearing catches the nuances of tone in a well-loved voice, the whisper of the wind through the trees, the toddler's ecstatic laugh. Why are we able to enjoy such sights and sounds? The Bible says: "The hearing ear and the seeing eye-Jehovah himself has made even for both of them." (Proverbs 20:12) But those are only two of the senses.

The sense of smell is another evidence of Jehovah's goodness. The human nose can distinguish some 10,000 different odors. Think of just a few: your favorite food, cooking, flowers, fallen leaves, the hint of smoke from a cozy fire. And your sense of touch enables you to feel the caress of the breeze on your face, the reassuring brace of a loved one, the satisfying smoothness of a piece of fruit in your hand. When you take a bite, your sense of taste comes in to play. A symphony of flavor greets you as your taste buds detect subtleties created by the fruit's complex makeup. Yes, we have every reason to exclaim regarding Jehovah: " How abundant your goodness is, which you have treasured up for those fearing you!" (Psalm 31:19) How, though, has Jehovah "treasured up" goodness for those who have Godly fear?

Next time: Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

An Outstanding Facet Of Divine Love

In many modern languages, "goodness" is a somewhat bland word. As revealed in the Bible, though, goodness is far from bland. Primarily, it refers to virtue and moral excellence. In a sense, then, we might say that goodness permeates Jehovah. All his attributes-including his power, his justice and his wisdom-are good through and through. Still, goodness might best be describes as an expression of Jehovah's love. Why?

Goodness is an active, outgoing quality. The apostle Paul indicated that in humans it is even more appealing than righteousness. (Romans 5:7) The righteous man can be counted on to adhere faithfully to the requirements of the law, but a good man does more. He takes the initiative, actively seeking ways to benefit others. As we shall see, Jehovah is certainly good in that sense. Clearly, such goodness springs from Jehovah's boundless love.

Jehovah is also unique in his goodness. Not long before Jesus died, a man approached him to ask a question, addressing him with the words "Good Teacher." Jesus replied: "Why do you call me good? Nobody is good, except one, God." (Mark 10:17, 18) Now, that response may strike you as puzzling. Why would Jesus correct the man? Was not Jesus, in fact, a "Good Teacher?"

Evidently, the man was using the words: "Good Teacher"as flattering to his heavenly Father, who is good in the supreme sense. (Proverbs 11:2) But Jesus was also affirming a profound truth. Jehovah alone is the standard for what is good. Only he has the sovereign right to determine what is good and what is bad. Adam and Eve, by rebelliously partaking of the tree of the knowledge of good and bad, sought to assume that right themselves. Unlike them, Jesus humbly leaves the setting of standards to his Father.

Moreover, Jesus knew that Jehovah is the source of all that is truly good. He is the Giver of "every good gift and every perfect present." (James 1:17) Let us examine how Jehovah's goodness is evident in his generosity.

Next time:Evidence Of Jehovah's Abundant Goodness

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"

Bathed in the warm light of sunset, a few longtime friends enjoy an outdoor meal together, laughing and talking as they admire the view. Far away, a farmer looks out at his fields and smiles in satisfaction because dark clouds have gathered and the first drops of rain are falling on the thirsty crops. Elsewhere, a husband and wife are delighted to see their child take his first wobbly steps.

Whether or not they know it or not, such people are all benefiting from the same thing-the goodness of Jehovah God. Religious people often repeat the phrase "God is good." The Bible is far more emphatic. It says: "O how great his goodness is!" (Zechariah 9:17) But it seems that few today really know what those words mean. What does the goodness of Jehovah actually involve, and how does this quality of God affect each one of us?

Next time: An Outstanding Facet Of Divine Love

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

What About The Consequences?

Does Jehovah's readiness to forgive mean that a repentant sinner is exempted from all consequences of his wrong course? Not at all. We cannot sin with impunity. Paul wrote: "Whatever a man is sowing, this he will also reap." (Galatians 6:7) We may face certain consequences of our actions. This does not mean that after extending forgiveness Jehovah causes adversity to befall us. When troubles arise, A Christian should not feel, 'Perhaps Jehovah is punishing me for past sins.' (James 1:13) On the other hand, Jehovah does not shield us from all the effects of our wrong actions. Divorce, unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease, loss of trust or respect-all of these may be the sad, unavoidable consequences of sin. Recall that even after forgiving David for his sins in connection with Bath-sheba and Uriah, Jehovah did not protect David from the disastrous consequences that followed. -2 Samuel 12:9-12.

Our sins may have additional consequences, especially if others have been hurt by our actions. Consider, for example, the account in Leviticus chapter 6. The Mosaic Law here addresses the situation wherein a person commits a serious wrong by seizing a fellow Israelite's goods through robbery, extortion, or fraud. The sinner then denies that he is guilty, even being so daring as to swear falsely. It is one person's word against another's Later, however, the offender becomes stricken in conscience and confesses to his sin. To gain God's forgiveness, he has to do three more things: to restore what he had taken, pay the victim a fine totaling 20 percent of the value of the stolen items and provide a ram as a guilt offering. Then, the law says: "The priest must make and atonement for him before Jehovah, and so it must be forgiven him." -Leviticus 6:1-7.

This law was a merciful provision from God. It benefited the victim, whose property was returned and who no doubt felt much relief when the offender finally acknowledged his sin. At the same time, the law benefited the one whose conscience at last moved him to admit his guilt and correct his wrong. Indeed, if he refused to do so, there would be no forgiveness for him from God.

Although we are not under the Mosaic Law, that Law gives us insight into Jehovah's mind, including his thinking on forgiveness. (Colossians 2:13, 14) If others have been hurt by our sins, God is pleased when we do what we can to right the wrong. (Matthew 5:23, 24) This may involve acknowledging our sin, admitting our guilt, and even apologizing to the victim. Then we can appeal to Jehovah on the basis of Jesus' sacrifice and experience the assurance that we have been forgiven by God. -Hebrews 10:21, 22.

Like any loving parent, Jehovah may offer forgiveness along with a measure of discipline (Proverbs 3:11, 12) A repentant Christian may have to relinquish his privilege of serving as an elder, a ministerial servant, or a full-time evangelizer. It may be painful for him to lose for a period of time privileges that were precious to him. such discipline, however, does not mean that Jehovah has withheld forgiveness. We must remember that discipline from Jehovah is proof of his love for us. Accepting and applying it is in our best interest. -Hebrews 12:5-11.

How refreshing to know that our God is "ready to forgive!" Despite the mistakes we may have made, we should never conclude that we are beyond the reach of Jehovah's mercy. If we truly repent, take steps to right the wrong, and earnestly pray for forgiveness on the basis of Jesus' shed blood, we can have full confidence that Jehovah will forgive us. (1 John 1:9) Let us imitate his forgiveness in our dealings with one another. After all, if Jehovah , who does not sin, can so lovingly forgive us, should not we sinful humans do our best to forgive one another?

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

"Their Sin I Shall Remember No More"

Jehovah promised regarding those in the new covenant: "I shall forgive their error, and their sin I shall remember no more." (Jeremiah 31:34) Does this mean that when Jehovah forgives he is unable to recall sins anymore? That could hardly be the case. The Bible tells us of the sins of many individuals whom Jehovah forgave, including David. (2 Samuel 11:1-17; 12:13) Jehovah is obviously still aware of the errors they committed. The record of their sins, as well as that of their repentance and forgiveness by God, has been preserved for our benefit. (Romans 15:4) what, then does the Bible mean when it says that Jehovah does not "remember" the sins of those whom he forgives?

The Hebrew verb rendered "I shall remember" implies more than simply to recall the past. The Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament notes that it includes "the additional implicaton of taking appropriate action." So in this sense, to "remember" sin involves taking action against sinners. (Hosea 9:9) But when God says "their sin I shall remember no more," he is assuring us that once he forgives repentant sinners, he will not at some future time act against them because of those sins. (Ezekiel 18:21, 22) Jehovah thus forgets in the sense that he does not bring our sins up again and again in order to accuse or punish us over and over. Is it not comforting to know that our God forgives and forgets?

Next time: What About The Consequences?

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

A repentant David said: "My sin I finally confessed to you, and my error I did not cover . . .And you yourself pardoned the error of my sins." (Psalm 32:56) The term "pardoned" translates a Hebrew word that basically means "lift up" or "carry." Its use here signifies to take away "guilt, iniquity, transgression." So Jehovah,in effect, lifted up David's sins and carried them away. This no doubt erased the feelings of guilt that David had been carrying. (Psalm 32:3) We too can have full confidence in the God who carries away the sins of the those who seek his forgiveness on the basis of their faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. -Matthew 20:28.

David used another vivid expression to describe Jehovah's forgiveness: "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." (Psalm 103:12, The Amplified Bible) How far is east from west? In a sense, east is always at the utmost distance imaginable from west; the two points can never meet. One scholar notes that this expression means "as far as possible as far as we can imagine.

Have you ever tried to remove a stain from a light-colored garment? Perhaps despite how your best efforts, the stain remained visible. Notice how Jehovah describes his capacity for forgiveness: "Though the sins of you people should prove to be as scarlet, they will be made to white just like snow; though they should be red like crimson cloth, they will become even like wool." (Isaiah 1:18) The word "scarlet" denotes a bright red color. "Crimson"was one of the deep colors of dyed material. (Nahum 2:3) We can never through our own efforts remove the stain of sin. But Jehovah can take sins that are like scarlet and crimson and make them white like snow or undyed wool. When Jehovah forgives our sins, we need not feel that we bear the stain of such sins for the rest of our life.

In a moving song of gratitude that Hezekiah composed after he was spared from a deadly sickness, he said to Jehovah: "You have thrown behind your back all my sins." (Isaiah 38:17) Jehovah is here portrayed as taking the sins of a repentant wrongdoer and throwing them behind Him where he neither sees them nor takes notice of them anymore. According to one source, the idea conveyed may be expressed: "You have made [my sins] as if they had not happened." Is that not reassuring?

In a promise of restoration, the prophet Micah expressed his conviction that Jehovah would forgive his repentant people: "Who is a God like you, . . .passing over transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? . . .And you will throw into the depths of the sea all their sins." (Micah 7:18, 19) Jesus urged us to pray: "Forgive us our debts." (Matthew 6:12) Jesus thus likened sins to debts. (Luke 11:4) When we sin, we become "debtors" to Jehovah. Regarding the meaning of the Greek verb translated "forgive," one reference work says: "To let go, give up, a debt, by not demanding it." In a sense, when Jehovah forgives, he cancels the debt that would otherwise be charged against our account. Repentant sinners can thus take comfort. Jehovah will never demand payment for a debt he has canceled! -Psalm 32:1, 2.

Jehovah's forgiveness is further described at Acts 3:19: "Repent,therefore, and turn around so as to get your sins blotted out." That last phrase translates a Greek verb that can mean "to wipe out,. . .cancel or destroy." According to some scholars, the image expressed is that of erasing handwriting. how was this possible? The ink commonly used in ancient times was made of a mixture that included carbon, gum and water. Soon after working with such ink, a person could take a wet sponge and wipe the writing away. Therein is a beautiful picture of Jehovah's mercy. When he forgives our sins, it is as though he takes a sponge and wipes them away.

When we reflect on these varied word pictures, is it not clear that Jehovah wants us to know that he is truly ready to forgive our sins as long as he finds us sincerely repentant? We need not fear that he will hold such sins against us in the future. This is shown by something else that the Bible reveals about Jehovah's great mercy. When he forgives , he forgets.

Next time: "Their Sin I Shall Remember No More"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Why Jehovah Is "Ready To Forgive"

Jehovah is aware of our limitations. "He himself well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust," says Psalm 103:14. He does not forget that we are creatures of dust, having frailties, or weaknesses, as a result of imperfection. The expression that he knows "the formation of us" reminds us that the Bible likens Jehovah to a potter and us to the clay vessels he forms. (Jeremiah 18:2-6) The Great Potter tempers his dealings with us according to the frailty of our sinful nature and the way we respond or fail to respond to his guidance.

Jehovah understands how powerful sin is. His Word describes sin as a portent force that has man in its deadly grip. Just how strong is sin's hold? In the book of Romans, the apostle Paul explains: We are "under sin," as soldiers are under their commander (Romans 3:9) ; sin has "ruled" over mankind like a king (Romans 5:21); it "resides," or is "dwelling," within us (Romans 7:17, 20); its "law" is continually at work in us, in effect trying to control our course. (Romans 7:23, 25) What a powerful hold sin has on our fallen flesh! -Romans 7:21, 24.

Hence, Jehovah knows that perfect obedience is not possible for us, no matter how earnestly we may yearn to give it to him. He lovingly assures us that when we seek his mercy with a contrite heart, he will extend forgiveness. Psalm 51:17 says: " The sacrifices to God are a broken spirit; a heart broken and crushed, O God, you will not despise." Jehovah will never reject, or turn away, a heart that is "broken and crushed" by the burden of guilt.

Does that mean, though, that we can presume on God's mercy, using our sinful nature as an excuse to sin? Certainly not! Jehovah is not guided by mere sentiment. His mercy has limits. He will by no means forgive those who hardheartedly practice will sin, not showing any repentance. (Hebrews 10:26) On the other hand, when he sees a contrite heart, he is ready to forgive. Let us now consider some of the expressive language used in the Bible to describe this marvelous facet of Jehovah's love.

Next time: How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

A God Who Is "Ready To Forgive"

"MY OWN errors have passed over my head," wrote the psalmist David. "Like a heavy load they are too heavy for me. I have grown numb and become crushed to an extreme degree." (Psalm 38:4, 8) David knew how heavy the burden of a guilty conscience could be. But he found comfort for his troubled heart. He understood that while Jehovah hates sin, he does not hate the sinner if that one is truly repentant and rejects his sinful course. With full faith in Jehovah's willingness to extend mercy to repentant ones, David said: "You, O Jehovah, are . . .ready to forgive." -Psalm 86:5.

When we sin, we too may carry the crushing burden of a pained conscience. This feeling of remorse is healthy. It can move us to take positive steps to correct our mistakes. There is, however, a danger of becoming overwhelmed by guilt. Our self-condemning heart might insist that Jehovah will not forgive us, no matter how repentant we are. If we become "swallowed up" by guilt, Satan may try to get us to give up, to feel that Jehovah views us as worthless, unfit to serve him. -2 Corinthians 2:5-11.

Is that how Jehovah views matters? Not at all! Forgiveness is a facet of Jehovah's great love. In his Word, he assures us that when we manifest genuine, heartfelt repentance, he is willing to forgive. (Proverbs 28:13) Lest Jehovah's forgiveness ever seems unattainable to us, let us examine why and how he forgives.

Next time: Why Jehovah Is "Ready To Forgive"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

When Jehovah Withholds Compassion

Are we to imagine that Jehovah's tender compassion is without limits? On the contrary, the Bible clearly shows that in the case of individuals who set themselves against his righteous ways, Jehovah rightly withholds compassion. (Hebrews 10:28) To see why he does so, recall the example of the nation of Israel.

Although Jehovah repeatedly delivered the Israelites from their enemies, his compassion eventually reached its limit. This stubborn people practice idolatry, even bringing their disgusting idols right into Jehovah's temple! (Ezekiel 5:11; 8:17, 18) Further, we are told: "They were continually making jest at the messengers of the true God and despising his words and mocking at his prophets, until the rage of Jehovah came up against his people, until there was no healing." (2 Chronicles 36:16) The Israelites reached a point where there was no longer any proper basis for compassion, and they provoked Jehovah to righteous anger. With what result?

Jehovah could no longer feel compassion for his people. He proclaimed: "I shall show no compassion, nor feel any sorrow, and I shall not have the mercy to keep from bringing them to ruin." (Jeremiah 13:14) thus, Jerusalem and its temple were destroyed, and the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon. How tragic it is when sinful humans get so rebellious that they exhaust the limits of divine compassion! -Lamentations 2:21.

What about today? Jehovah has not changed. Out of compassion, he as commissioned his Witnesses to preach the " good news of the kingdom" in all the inhabited earth. (Matthew 24:14) When right hearted people respond, Jehovah helps them to grasp the Kingdom message. (Acts 16:14) But this work will not go on forever. It would hardly be compassionate for Jehovah to allow this wicked world, with all its misery and suffering, to continue indefinitely. When divine compassion has reached its limit, Jehovah will come to execute judgment on this system of things. Even then, he will be acting out of compassion-compassion for his "holy name" and for his devoted servants. (Ezekiel 36:20-23) Jehovah will clear away wickedness and usher in a righteous new world. Regarding the wicked, Jehovah declares: "My eye will not feel sorry, neither shall I show compassion. Their way, I shall certainly bring upon their own head." -Ezekiel 9:10.

Until then, Jehovah feels compassion for people, even those who face destruction. Sinful humans who are sincerely repentant can benefit from one of Jehovah's most compassionate provisions-forgiveness. In the next chapter, we will discuss some of the beautiful word pictures in the Bible that convey the completeness of Jehovah's forgiveness.

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready To Forgive"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Jehovah's Compassion For Individuals

The Law that God gave to the nation of Israel showed his compassion for individuals. Take, for example, his concern for the poor. Jehovah knew that unforeseen circumstances might arise that could plunge an Israelite into poverty. How were poor ones to be treated? Jehovah strictly commanded the Israelites: "You must not harden your heart or be closefisted toward your poor brother. You should by all means give to him, and your heart should not be stingy in your giving to him, because on this account Jehovah your God will bless you in every deed of yours." (Deuteronomy 15:7, 10) Jehovah further commanded that the Israelites not harvest the edges of their fields completely or pick up any leftovers. Such gleanings were for disadvantaged ones. (Leviticus 23:22; Ruth 2:2-7) When the nation observed this considerate legislation in behalf of the poor in their midst, needy individuals in Israel did not have to beg for food. What that not a reflection of Jehovah's tender compassion?

Today, too, our loving God is deeply concerned about us as individuals. We can be sure that he is keenly aware of any suffering we may undergo. The psalmist David wrote: "The eyes of Jehovah are toward the righteous ones, and his ears are toward their cry for help. Jehovah is near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves." (Psalm 34:15, 18/) Regarding those described by these words, one Bible commentator notes: "They are of a broken heart and a contrite spirit, that is, humbled for sin, and emptied of self; they are low in their own eyes, and have no confidence in their own merit." Such ones may feel that Jehovah is far away and that they are too insignificant for him to care about them. But that is not the case. David's words assure us that Jehovah does not abandon those who are "low in their own eyes." Our compassionate God knows that at such times we need him more than ever, and he is near.

Consider an experience. A mother in the United States rushed her two-year old son to the hospital because he was suffering from a bad case of croup. After examining the boy, the doctors informed the mother that they would have to keep him in the hospital overnight. Where did the mother spend that night? IN a chair in the hospital room, right next to her son's bed! Her little boy was sick, and she just had to be near him. Surely we can expect even more from our loving heavenly Father! After all, we are made in his image. (Genesis 1:26) The touching words of Psalm 34:18 tell us that when we are "broken at heart" or "crushed in spirit," Jehovah, like a loving parent, "is near" -ever compassionate and ready to help.

How, then, does Jehovah help us as individuals? He does not necessarily remove the cause of our suffering. But Jehovah has made abundant provisions for those who cry out to him for help. His Word, the Bible offers practical counsel that can make a difference. In the congregation, Jehovah provides spiritually qualified overseers, who endeavor to reflect his compassion in helping fellow worshipers. (James 5:14<>

Of course, the greatest example of Jehovah's compassion is his giving the One dearest to him as a ransom for us. It was a loving sacrifice on Jehovah's part, and it opened the way for our salvation. Remember,that ransom provision provision applies to us personally. With good reason, Zechariah, the father of John the Baptizer, foretold that this provision magnified "the tender compassion of our God." -Luke 1:78.

Next time: When Jehovah Withholds Compassion

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

When Jehovah Showed Compassion To A Nation

The compassion of Jehovah is clearly seen in the way he dealt with the nation of Israel. By the end of the 16 century B.C.E., millions of Israelites were enslaved in ancient Egypt, where they were severely oppressed. The Egyptians "kept making their life bitter with hard slavery at clay mortar and bricks." (Exodus 1:11, 14) In their distress, the Israelites cried out to Jehovah for help. How did the God of tender compassion respond?

Jehovah's heart was touched. He said: "Unquestionably I have seen the affliction of my people who are in Egypt, and i have heard their outcry as a result of those who drive them to work; because I well know the pains they suffer." (Exodus 3:7) Jehovah could not see the sufferings of his people or hear their outcries without feeling for them. As we saw in chapter 24 of this book, Jehovah is a God of empathy. And empathy-the ability to identify with the pain of others-is akin to compassion. But Jehovah did not just feel for his people; he was moved to act in their behalf. Isaiah 63:9 says: "In his love and in his compassion he himself repurchased them." With "a strong hand," Jehovah rescued the Israelites out of Egypt. (Deuteronomy 4:34) Thereafter, he provided them with miraculous food and delivered them into a fruitful land of their own.

Jehovah's compassion did not stop there. When settled in the Promised Land, Israel repeatedly lapsed into unfaithfulness and suffered as a result. But then the people would come to their senses and call out to Jehovah. Again and again he delivered them. Why? "Because he felt compassion for his people." -2 Chronicles 36:15; Judges 2:11-16.

Consider what happened in the days of Jephitah. Since the Israelites had turned to serving false gods, Jehovah allowed them to be oppressed by the Ammonites for 18 years. Finally, the Israelites repented. The Bible tells us: "They began to remove the foreign gods from their midst and to serve Jehovah, so that his soul became impatient because of the trouble of Israel." (Judges 10:6-16) Once his people manifested genuine repentance, Jehovah could no longer bear to see them suffer. So the God of tender compassion empowered Jephthah to deliver the Israelites out of the hands of their enemies. -Judges 11:30-33.

What do Jehovah's dealings with the nation of Israel teach us about tender compassion? For one thing, we see that it is more than just a sympathetic awareness of the adversities that people experience. Recall the example of a mother whose compassion moves her to respond to the crying of her baby. Similarly, Jehovah is not deaf to the outcries of his people. His tender compassion moves his to relieve their suffering. In addition, the way Jehovah dealt with the Israelites teaches us that compassion is by no means a weakness, for this tender quality moved him to take strong, decisive action in behalf of his people. But does Jehovah show compassion only to his servants as a group?

Next time: Jehovah's Compassion For Individuals

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

What Is Compassion?

In the Bible, there is a close relationship between compassion and mercy. A number of Hebrew and Greek words convey the sense of tender compassion. Consider, for example, the Hebrew verb ra-CHAM', which is often rendered "show mercy" or "have pity." One reference work explains that the verb ra-cham' "expresses a deep and tender feeling of compassion, such as is aroused by the sight of weakness or suffering in those that are dear to us or need our help." This Hebrew term, which Jehovah applies to himself, is related to the word for "womb" and can be described as "motherly compassion." -Exodus 33:19; Jeremiah 33:26.

The Bible uses the feelings that a mother has for her baby to teach us about the meaning of Jehovah's compassion. At Isaiah 49:15, we read: "Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should not have compassion [ra-cham'] on the son of her womb? Yes, they may forget, yet, I will not forget you." (The Amplified Bible) That touching description underscores the depth of Jehovah's compassion for his people. How so?

It is difficult to imagine that a mother would forget to nourish and care for her nursing child. After all, an infant is helpless; night and day a baby needs its mother's attention and affection. Sad to say, however, maternal neglect is not unheard of, especially in these "critical times" characterized by a lack of "natural affection." (2 Timothy 3:1, 3) "Yet," Jehovah declares, "I will not forget you." The tender compassion that Jehovah has for his servants is unfailing. it is immeasurably stronger than the most tender natural feeling that we can imagine-the compassion that a mother normally feels for her infant child. Little wonder that one commentator said of Isaiah 49:15: "This is one of the strongest, if not the strongest of expression of God's love in the Old Testament."

Is tender compassion a sign of weakness? May imperfect humans have held that view. For instance, the Roman Philosopher Seneca, who was a contemporary of Jesus and a leading intellectual figure in Rome, taught that "pity is a weakness of the mind." Seneca was an advocate of Stoicism, a philosophy stressing calmness that is devoid of feeling. A wise person may help those in distress, said Seneca, but he must not allow himself to feel pity, for such a feeling would deprive him of serenity. That self-centered view of life allow no room for heartfelt compassion. But that is not at all what Jehovah is like! In his Word, Jehovah assures us that he "is very tender in affection and compassionate." (James 5:11, footnote) As we will see, compassion is not a weakness but a strong, vital quality. Let us examine how Jehovah, like a loving parent manifests it.

Next time: When Jehovah Showed Compassion To A Nation

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

"The Tender Compassion Of Our God"

IN THE middle of the night, a baby cries. Immediately, the mother wakes up. She does not sleep as soundly as she used to-not since her baby was born. She has learned to distinguish her infant's type of crying. Hence, she can often tell whether her newborn needs to be fed, cuddled, or otherwise tended to. But regardless of the reason for the baby's crying, the mother responds. Her heart cannot let her ignore the needs of her child.

The compassion that a mother feels for the child of her womb is among the most tender feelings known to the humans. There is, however, a feeling that is infinitely stronger-the tender compassion of our God, Jehovah. A consideration of this endearing quality can help us draw closer to Jehovah. Let us, then, discuss what compassion is and how our God manifests it.

Next time: What Is Compassion?

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Conclusion of Jehovah Actively Demonstrates His Love

Jehovah is empathetic. What is empathy? One faithful elderly Christian said: "Empathy is your pain in my heart." Is Jehovah really affected by our pain? We read regarding the sufferings of his people Israel: "During all their distress it was distressing to him." (Isaiah 63:9) Not only did Jehovah see their troubles; he felt for the people. Just how intensely he feels is illustrated by Jehovah's own words to his servants: "He that is touching you is touching my eyeball." (Zechariah 2:8) How painful that would be! Yes, Jehovah feels for us. When we hurt, he hurts.

No balanced Christian would use such evidence of God's love and esteem as an excuse for pride or egotism. The apostle Paul wrote: "Through the undeserved kindness given to me I tell everyone there among you not to think more of himself than it is necessary to think; but to think so as to have a sound mind, each one as God has distributed to him a measure of faith." (Romans 12:3) Another translation says here: "I would say to every one of you not to estimate himself above his real value, but to make a sober rating of himself." (A Translation in the Language of the People, by Charles B. Williams) So while we bask in the warmth of our heavenly Father's love, let us be sound in mind and remember that we neither earn nor deserve God's love. -Luke 17:10.

Let each of us do everything in our power to reject all of Satan's lies, including the lie that we are worthless or unlovable. If your experiences in life have taught you to see yourself as an obstacle too daunting even for God's immense love to surmount, or your good works as too insignificant even for his all-seeing eyes to notice, or your sins as too vast even for the death of his precious Son to cover, you have been taught a lie. Reject such lies within all your heart! Let us continue to assure our hearts with the truth expressed in Paul's inspired words: "I am convinced that neither death nor life nor angels nor governments nor things now here nor things to come nor power nor height nor depth nor any other creation will be able to separate us from God's love that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." -Romans 8:38, 39.

Next time: "The Tender Compassion Of Our God"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Jehovah Actively Demonstrates His Love

Fourth, Jehovah does much to prove his love for us. Surely, Christ's ransom sacrifice is the most potent answer to the satanic lie that we are worthless or unlovable. Never should we forget that the agonizing death that Jesus suffered on the torture stake and the even greater agony that Jehovah endured in watching his beloved Son die are proof of their love for us. Sadly, many people find it hard to believe that this gift could be meant for them personally. They feel unworthy. Remember, though, that the apostle Paul had been a persecutor of Christ's followers. Yet, he wrote: " The Son of God . . . loved me and handed himself over for me." -Galatians 1:13; 2:20.

Jehovah proves his love for us by helping us individually to take advantage of the benefits of Christ's sacrifice. Jesus said: "No man can come to me unless the Father, who sent me, draws him." (John 6:44) Yes, Jehovah personally draws us toward his Son and the hope of eternal life. How? By means of the preaching work, which reaches us individually, and by means of his Holy Spirit, which Jehovah uses to help us grasp and apply spiritual truths despite our limitations and imperfections. Jehovah can therefore say of us as he said of Israel: "With a love to time indefinite I have loved you. That is why I have drawn you with loving-kindness." -Jeremiah 31:3.

Perhaps it is through the privilege of prayer that we experience Jehovah's love in the most intimate way. The Bible invites each of us to "pray incessantly" to God. (1Thessalonians 5:17) He listens. He is even called the "Hearer of prayer." (Psalm 65:2) He has not delegated this office to anyone else, not even to his own Son. Just think: The Creator of the universe urges us to approach him in prayer, with freeness of speech. And what kind of listener is he? Cold, impassive,uncaring? Not at all.

Next time: Conclusion of Jehovah Actively Demonstrates His Love

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Jehovah Sifts The Good From The Bad

Third, as Jehovah searches through us, he carefully sifts, for the good. For instance, when Jehovah decreed that the entire apostate dynasty of King Jeroboam was to be executed, he ordered that one of the king's sons Abijah, be given a decent burial. Why? "Somethings good toward Jehovah the God of Israel has been found in him." ((1 Kings 14:1, 10-13) Jehovah, in effect, sifted through the heart of that young an and found "something good" there. However, small or insignificant that bit of good may have been, Jehovah found it worth noting his Word. He even rewarded it, showing an appropriate degree of mercy to that one member of an apostate household.

An even more positive example may be found in good King Jehoshaphat. When the king committed a foolish act, Jehovah's prophet told him: "For this there is indignation against you from the person of Jehovah." What a sobering thought! But Jehovah's message did not end there. It went on: "Nevertheless, there are good things that have been found with you." (2 Chronicles 19:1-3) So Jehovah's righteous anger did not blind him to the good in Jehoshaphat. How unlike imperfect humans! When upset with others, we may tend to become blind to the good in them. And when we sin, the disappointment, shame and guilt that we feel may blind us to the good in ourselves. Remember, though, that if we repent of our sins and strive hard not to repeat them, Jehovah forgives us.

As Jehovah sifts through you, he discards such sins, much the way a prospector panning for gold discards worthless gravel. What about your good qualities and works? Ah, these are the "nuggets" he keeps! Have you ever noticed the way fond parents treasure their children's drawings or school projects, sometimes for decades after the children have forgotten them? Jehovah is the fondest Parent. As long as we remain faithful to him, he never forgets our good works and qualities. In fact, he would view it as unrighteous to forget these, and he is never unrighteous. (Hebrews 6:10) He also sifts us in another way.

Jehovah looks beyond our imperfections and sees our potential. To illustrate: People who love works of art will go to great lengths to restore badly damaged paintings or other works. When, for example, in the National Gallery in London, England, someone with a shotgun damaged a Leonardo Da Vinci drawing worth some $30 million, no one suggested that since the drawing was now damaged, it should be discarded. Work to restore the nearly 500-year old masterpiece began immediately. Why? Because it was precious in the eyes of the art lovers. Are you not worth more than a chalk and charcoal drawing? In God's eyes you certainly are-however damaged yo may be by inherited imperfection. (Psalm 72:12-14) Jehovah God, the skilled Creator of the human family, will do what is necessary to restore to perfection all of those who respond to his loving care. -Acts 3:21; Romans 8:20-22.

Yes, Jehovah sees the good in us that we many not see in ourselves. And as we serve him, he will make the good grow until we are eventually perfect. No matter how Satan's world has treated us, Jehovah values his faithful servants as desirable, or precious. -Haggai 2:7; footnote.

Next time: Jehovah Actively Demonstrates His Love

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

What Does Jehovah See In Us?

Second, the Bible teaches us what Jehovah values in his servants. Simply put, he delights in our good qualities and in the efforts we put forth. King David told his son Solomon: " All hearts Jehovah is searching, and every inclination of the thoughts he is discerning ." (1 Chronicles 28:9) As God searches through billions of human hearts in this violent, hate-filled world, how delighted he must be when he comes upon a heart that loves peace, truth and righteousness! What happens when God finds a heart that swells with love for him, that seeks to learn about him and to share such knowledge with others? Jehovah tells us that he takes note of those who tell others about him. He even has "a book of remembrance" for all "those in fear of Jehovah and for those thinking upon his name." (Malachi 3:16) Such qualities are precious to him.

What are some good works that Jehovah values? Certainly our efforts to imitate his Son, Jesus Christ. ( 1 Peter 2:21) One vital work that God values is the spreading of the good news of his Kingdom. At Romans 10:15, we read: "How comely are the feet of those who declare good news of of good things!" We may not normally think of our lowly feet as being "comely," or beautiful. But here they represent the efforts Jehovah's servants make in preaching the good news. All such efforts are beautiful and precious in his eyes. - Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20.

Jehovah, also values our endurance. (Matthew 24:13) Remember, Satan wants you to turn your back on Jehovah. Each day that you remain loyal to Jehovah is another day that you have helped to furnish a reply to Satan's taunts. (Proverbs 27:11) Sometimes endurance is not easy matter. Health problems, financial woes, emotional distress and other obstacles can make each passing day a trail. Postponed expectations can prove discouraging too. (Proverbs 13:12) Endurance in the face of such challenges is all the more precious to Jehovah. that is why King David asked Jehovah to store up his tears in a "skin bottle," adding confidently: "Are they not in your book?" (Psalm 56:8) Yes, Jehovah treasures up and remembers all the tears and suffering we endure while maintaining our loyalty to him. They are too precious in his eyes.

Now, the self-condemning heart may resist such evidence of our value in the eyes of God. It may insistently whisper: ' But there are so many others who are more exemplary than I am. How disappointed Jehovah does not compare nor is he rigid or harsh in his thinking. (Galatians 6:4) It is with great subtlety that he reads our hearts, and he values the good-even small measures of it.

Next time: Jehovah Sifts The Good From The Bad

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Jehovah Values You

First, the Bible directly teaches that God sees worth in each of his servants. For example, Jesus said: "Do not two sparrows sell for a coin of small value? Yet, not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's knowledge. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore, have no fear: You are worth more than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:29-31) Consider what those words meant to Jesus' first-century listeners.

We may wonder why anyone would buy a sparrow. Well, in Jesus' day the sparrow was the cheapest of the birds sold as food. Notice that for one coin of small value, a purchaser got two sparrows. But Jesus later stated that if a person was prepared to spend two coins, he got, not four sparrows, but five. The extra bird was added as though it had no value at all. Perhaps such creatures were worthless in the eyes of men, but how did the Creator view them? Said Jesus: "Not one of them [not even the one added in] goes forgotten before God." (Luke 12:6, 7) Now we may begin to see Jesus' point. If Jehovah places such value on a single sparrow, of how much greater worth is a human! As Jesus explained, Jehovah knows every detail about us. Why, the very hairs of our head are numbered!

Our hairs numbered? Some might assume that Jesus was being unrealistic here. Just think, though, about the hope of the resurrection. How intimately Jehovah must know us in order to recreate us! He values us so much that he remembers every detail, including our genetic code and all our years of memories and experiences. Numbering our hairs -of which the average head grows about 100,000-would be a simple feat by comparison.

Next time: What Does Jehovah See In Us?

Draw Close To Jehovah,2002

Nothing Can "Separate Us From God's Love"

DOES Jehovah God love you personally? Some agree that God loves mankind in general, as John 3:16 says. But they feel, in effect: 'God could never love me as an individual.' Even true Christians may occasionally have doubts in that respect. Discouraged, one man said: "I find it very difficult to believe that God cares anything about me." Do similar doubts afflict you at times?

Satan is eager for us to believe that Jehovah God neither loves us nor values us. True, Satan often seduces people by appealing to their vanity and pride. (2 Corinthians 11:3) But he also delights in crushing the self-respect of vulnerable ones. (John 7:47-49; 8:13, 44) This is particularly so in these critical "last days." Many today grow up in families where there is no natural affection." Others are constantly exposed to those who are fierce, selfish, and headstrong. (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Years of being subjected to ill-treatment, racism or hatred may have convinced such ones that they are worthless or unlovable.

if you sense such negative feelings in yourself, do not despair. Many of us are unreasonably hard on ourselves from time to time. But remember, God's Word is designed for "setting things straight" and for "overturning strongly entrenched things." ( 2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Corinthians 10:4) The Bible says: "We shall assure our hearts before him as regards whatever our hearts may condemn us in, because God is greater than our hearts and knows all things." (1 John 3:19, 20) Let us consider four ways in which the Scriptures help us to "assure our hearts" of Jehovah's love.

Next time: Jehovah Values You

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Conclusion of Jehovah Took The Initiative

That garden was planted by Jehovah himself! It must have been indescribably lovely. Every tree delightful for beauty or for delicious fruit was there. The garden was well watered, spacious and alive with a fascinating variety of animals. Adam and Eve had everything to make their lives happy and full, including rewarding work and perfect companionship. Jehovah first loved them, and they had every reason to respond in kind. Yet, they failed to do so. Instead of lovingly obeying their heavenly Father, they selfishly rebelled against him. -Genesis, chapter 2.

How painful that must have been for Jehovah! But did this rebellion embitter his loving heart? No! "His loving kindness [or, "loyal love," footnote] is to time indefinite." (Psalm 136:1) Thus, he immediately purposed to make loving provisions to redeem any rightly disposed offspring of Adam and Eve. As we have seen, those provisions included the ransom sacrifice of his beloved Son, which cost the Father so dearly. -1John 4:10.

Yes, from the beginning Jehovah has taken the initiative in showing love to mankind. In countless ways, "he first loved us." Love promotes harmony and joy, so it is no wonder that Jehovah is described as "the happy God." (1Timothy 1:11) However, an important question arises. Does Jehovah love us as individuals? The next chapter will address that matter.

Next time: "Nothing Can "Separate Us From God's Love"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Jehovah Took The Initiative

Love is not new. After all, what moved Jehovah to begin creating? It was not that he was lonely and needed companionship. Jehovah is complete and self-contained, lacking nothing that someone else might supply. But his love, an active quality, naturally moved him to want to share the joys of life with intelligent creatures who could appreciate such a gift. "The beginning of the creation by God" was his only-begotten Son. (Revelation 3:14) Then Jehovah used his Master Worker to bring all other things into existence, starting with the angels. (Job 38:4, 7; Colossians 1:16) Blessed with freedom, intelligence and feelings, these might spirit had the opportunity to form loving attachments of their own-with one another and, above all, with Jehovah God. (2Corinthians 3:17) Thus, they loved because they were loved first.

So it was with mankind as well. From the start, Adam and Eve were virtually bathed in love. Everywhere they looked in their Paradise home in Eden, they could see evidence of the Father's love for them. Note what the Bible says: "Jehovah God planted a garden in Eden, toward the east, and there he put the man whom he had formed." (Genesis 2:8) Have you ever been in a truly beautiful garden or park? What pleased you most? The light filtering through the leaves in a shady alcove? The stunning array of colors in a bed of flowers? The background music of a gurgling brook, singing birds, and humming insects? What about the scents of trees, fruits and blossoms? In any case, no park today could compare with the one in Eden. Why?

Next time: Conclusion of Jehovah Took The Initiative

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

"God Is Love"

The Bible says something about love that it never says about Jehovah's other cardinal attributes. The Scriptures do not say that God is power or that God is justice or even that God is wisdom. He possesses those qualities, is the ultimate source of them, and is beyond comparison in regard to all three. About the fourth attribute, though, something more profound is said: "God is love." (1John 4:8) What does that mean?

"God is love" is not a simple equation, as if to say, "God equals love." We cannot rightly reverse the statement and say that "love is God." Jehovah is much more than an abstract quality. He is a person with a wide array of feelings and characteristics in addition to love. Yet, love runs very deep in Jehovah. One reference work thus says regarding this verse: "God's essence or nature is love." Generally, we might think of it this way: Jehovah's power enables him to act. His justice and his wisdom guide the way he acts. But Jehovah's love motivates him to act. And his love is always present in the way he uses his other attributes.

It is often said that Jehovah is the very personification of love. Hence, if we want to learn about principled love, we must learn about Jehovah. Of course, we may see this beautiful quality in humans as well. But why is it there? At the time of creation, Jehovah spoke these words, evidently to his Son: "Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness." (Genesis 1:26) Of all the creatures on this earth, only men and women can choose to love and thus imitate their heavenly Father. Recall that Jehovah used various creatures to symbolize his cardinal attributes. Yet, Jehovah chose his highest earthly creation, man, as the symbol of His dominant quality, love. -Ezekiel 1:10.

When we love in an unselfish, principled way, we are reflecting Jehovah's dominant quality. It is just as the apostle John wrote: "As for us, we love, because he first loved us." (1John 4:19) But in what ways has Jehovah loved us first?

Next time: Jehovah Took The Initiative

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Divine Love Defined

What does the word "love" mean? Love has been described as the greatest need humans have. From the cradle to the grave, people strive after love, thrive in its warmth, even pine away and die for lack of it. Nonetheless,it is surprisingly difficult to define it. Of course, some people talk a lot about love. There is an endless stream of books, songs and poems about it. The results do not always clarify the meaning of love. If anything, the word is so overused that its true meaning seems ever more elusive.

The Bible, however, teaches with clarity about love. Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words notes: "Love can be known only from the actions it prompts." The Bible record of Jehovah's actions teaches us a great deal about his love-the benevolent affection he has for his creatures. For example, what could reveal more about his quality than Jehovah's own supreme act of love described earlier? In the Chapters to follow, we will see many other examples of Jehovah's love in action. Additionally, we can gain some insight from the original words for "love." Of these, the one used most often in the Christian Greek Scriptures is a-ga'pe. One Bible dictionary calls this "the most powerful word imaginable for love." Why?

A-ga'pe refers to love that is guided by principle. So it is more than just an emotional response to another person. It is broader in scope, more thoughtful and deliberate in its basis. Above all, a-ga'pe is utterly unselfish. For example, look again at John 3:16. What is "the world" that God love so much that he gave his only-begotten Son? It is the world of redeemable mankind. That includes many people who are pursuing a sinful course in life. Does Jehovah love each one as a personal friend, the way he loved faithful Abraham? (James 2:23) No, but Jehovah lovingly extends goodness toward all, even at great cost to himself. He wants all to repent and change their ways. (2 Peter 3:9) Many do. These he happily receives as his friends.

Some, though, have the wrong idea about a-ga'pe. they think that it means a cold, intellectual type of love. The fact that a-ga'pe often includes warm personal affection. For example, when John wrote: "The Father loves the Son," he used a form of the word a-ga'pe. Is that love devoid of warm affection? Note that Jesus said, "The Father has affection for the Son," using a form of the word phi-le'o. (John 3:35; 5:20) Jehovah's love often includes tender affection. However, his love is never swayed by mere sentiment. It is always guided by his wise and just principles.

As we have seen, all of Jehovah's qualities are sterling, perfect and appealing. But love is the most appealing of all. Nothing draws us so powerfully to Jehovah. Happily, love is also his dominant quality. How do we know that?

Next time: "God Is Love"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

Conclusion of The Greatest Act Of Love

Nevertheless, the Father dispatched his Son to the earth to be born as a human baby. Doing so meant that for some decades, Jehovah had to forgo intimate association with his beloved Son in heaven. With intense interest, He watched from heaven as Jesus grew up to be a perfect man. At about 30 years of age, Jesus got baptized. We do not have to guess how Jehovah felt about him. The Father spoke personally from heaven: "This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved." (Matthew 3:17) Seeing that Jesus faithfully did all that had been prophesied, all that was asked of him, his Father must have been so pleased! -John 5:36; 17:4.

How, though, did Jehovah feel on Nisan 14, 33 C.E.? How did he feel as Jesus was betrayed and then arrested by a mob in the night? As Jesus was deserted by his friends and subjected him to a trial? As he was ridiculed, spat upon and struck with fists? As he was scourged, his back torn to ribbons? As he was nailed, hands and feet, to a wooden pole and left to hang there while people reviled him? How did the Father feel as his beloved Son cried out to him in the throes of agony? How did Jehovah feel as Jesus breathed his last, and for the first time since the dawn of all creation, His dear Son was not in existence?" -Matthew 26:14-16,46, 47, 56, 59, 67; 27:38,-44, 46; John 19:1.

Words fail us. Since Jehovah has feelings, the pain he suffered over the death of his Son is beyond the power of our words to express. What can be expressed is Jehovah's motive for having allowed it to happen. Why did the Father subject himself to such feelings? Jehovah reveals something wonderful to us at John 3:16 -a Bible verse so important that it has been called the Gospel in miniature. It says: "God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life." So Jehovah's motive amounted to this: love. Jehovah's gift -his sending his Son to suffer and die for us- was the greatest act of love ever. (Even though we never deserved it nor appreciated it!)

Next time: Divine Love Defined

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

The Greatest Act Of Love

The Roman centurion who supervised the execution of Jesus was astonished both by the darkness that preceded Jesus' death and by the violent earthquake that followed it. "Certainly this was God's Son," he said. (Matthew 27:54) Clearly, Jesus was no ordinary man. That soldier had helped to execute the only-begotten Son of the Most High God! Just how dear was this Son to his Father?

The Bible calls Jesus "the firstborn of all creation." (Colossians 1:15) Just think-Jehovah's Son was in existence before the physical universe. How long, then, were Father and Son together? Some scientists estimate that the universe is 13 billion years old. Can you even imagine that much time? To help people grasp the age of the universe as estimated by scientists, one planetarium features a time line 360 feet long. As visitors walk along that time line, each step they take represents about 75 million years in the life of the universe. At the end of the time line, all human history is represented by a single mark the thickness of one human hair! Yet, even if this estimate is correct, that entire time line would not be long enough to represent the life span of Jehovah's Son! How was he occupied during all those ages?

The Son happily served as his Father's "master worker." (Proverbs 8:30) The Bible says: "Apart from [the Son] not even one thing came into existence." (John 1:3) So Jehovah and his Son worked together to bring all other things into being. What thrilling, happy times they had! Now, many will agree that the love between parent and child is amazingly strong. And love "is a perfect bond of union." (Colossians 3:14) Who of us, then, can begin to fathom the power of a bond that has existed over such an immense span of time? Clearly, Jehovah God and his Son are united by the strongest bond of love ever forged.

Next time: Conclusion of The Greatest Act Of Love

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002

The Greatest Act Of Love

"He First Loved Us"

ON A spring day nearly 2,000 years ago, an innocent man was tried, convicted of crimes he had never committed, and then tortured to death. It was not the first cruel and unjust execution in history; nor, sadly, was it the last. Yet, that death was unlike any other.

As that man suffered through his final, agonizing hours, heaven itself marked the significance of the event. Though it was the middle of the day, darkness suddenly descended on the land. As one historian put it, "the sunlight failed. (Luke 23:44, 45) Then, just before the man breathed his last, he said these unforgettable words: "It has been accomplished!" Indeed, by laying down his life, he accomplished something wonderful. His sacrifice was the greatest act of love ever performed by any human. -John 15:13; 19:30.

That man, of course, was Jesus Christ. His suffering and death on that dark day, Nisan 14, 33 C.E. are well-known. However, an important fact has often been ignored. Though Jesus suffered intensely, someone else suffered even more. In fact, someone else made an even greater sacrifice that day- the greatest act of love ever performed by anyone in the universe. What act was that? The answer provides a fitting introduction to the most important subjects : Jehovah's love.

Next time: The Greatest Act Of Love

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002