Using Wisely The Time We Now Have

Realizing that his time to influence humans is limited, Satan tries to keep people so busy that they have no time to listen to the good news of God's established Kingdom. We, therefore, do well to heed the divine counsel: "Keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons, buying out the opportune time for yourselves, because the days are wicked. On this account cease becoming unreasonable, but go on perceiving what the will of Jehovah is." -Ephesians 5:15-17.

How vital that we use our time wisely for the things of greatest importance rather than squander it on useless pursuits that bring no lasting benefit! We should cultivate the same attitude that Moses had when he petitioned Jehovah in these heartfelt words: "Show us just how to count our days in such a way that we may bring a heart of wisdom in." -Psalm 90:12.

True, in today's world everyone is busy. Nevertheless, Jehovah's Witnesses strongly urge you to spend some of your precious time to learn about God's requirements for gaining everlasting life under the rule of his Kingdom. An hour a week spent in systematically studying the Bible, "perceiving what the will of Jehovah is," may put you in line to experience personally the fulfillment of these words: "Turn away from what is bad and do what is good, and so reside to time indefinite. The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it." -Psalm 37:27, 29.

Next time: "For Everything There Is An Appointed Time

Watchtower, 1999

We Are Not Alone In Having Little Time

God's Adversary, Satan the Devil, the one whose scheming led to mankind's curtailed life span, has now become a victim of his own wickedness. (Compare Galatians 6:7, 8) Speaking of the birth of the Messianic Kingdom in heaven. (Revelation 12:12) gives us cause for hope when it says: " On this account be glad, you heavens and you who reside in them! Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time."

According to reliable Bible chronology and the fulfillment of Bible prophecy, we are now living at the close of that "short period of time." What a joy to know that Satan's time at large is soon to expire altogether! Once he has been put out of the way, obedient humans will be restored to perfection, and they can attain to the everlasting life that Jehovah purposed for them at the beginning. (Revelation 21:1-4) Lack of time will no longer be a problem.

Can you imagine what it will mean to have everlasting life-to live forever? Never again will you be plagued by things that you had to leave undone. If you need more time, there is tomorrow, or next week, or next year-in fact, a vast eternity stretching out before you!

Next time: Using Wisely The time We Now Have

Watchtower, 1999

Ever Less Time

Oldsters will verify that in recent decades the pace of living has speeded up. One journalist, Dr Sybille Fritsch, pointed out that during the past 200 years, the workweek has dropped from 80 to 38 hours, "yet this has not put a stop to our complaining." She clarified: "No time; time is money; grasping for time like gasping for breath; a life of hurry-scurry."

New inventions have opened up opportunities and possibilities never even dreamed of by earlier generations. But the greater the possibility of engaging in a multitude of activities, the greater the frustration at having too little time to do so. Nowadays, in many parts of the world, people live by the clock, rushing from deadline to the next. Dad must leave for work at 7:00 a.m., Mother must get the children to school by 8:30 a.m., and all of us must get ready for an important meeting at 7:30 p.m. In the haste of chasing one deadline after another, there is scarcely time left fro any relaxation. And we complain about the daily grind, about the rat race.

Next time: We Are Not Alone In Having Little Time

Watchtower, 1999

Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost but now am found,
was blind, but now I see.

T'was Grace that taught my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear
the hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares
I have already come;
'Tis Grace that brought me safe thus far
and Grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promised good to me.
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be,
As long as life endures.

When this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
a life of joy and peace.

When we've been here ten thousand years,
bright shining as the sun,
we've no less days to sing God's praise
than when we've first begun.

Celtic Woman - Amazing Grace

Why So Little Time?

TIME. We may find it difficult to define the word precisely, but we certainly know that we never seem to have enough time. We also know that it goes by quickly. In fact, we often sigh, "Time simply flies."

Nevertheless, it is evident that the English poet Austin Dobson came closer to the truth when he noted in 1877: "Time goes, you say? Ah no! Alas, Time stays, we go." Since his death in 1921, Dobson has been gone for almost 80 years; time has continued .


Time in abundance

Of mankind's Creator, the Bible tells us: "Before the mountains themselves were born, or you proceeded to bring forth as with labor pains the earth and the productive land, even from time indefinite to time indefinite you are God." (Psalm 90:2) Or as The New Jerusalem Bible renders it, "from eternity to eternity you are God." So time will last as long as God himself lasts-forever!

In sharp contrast with God, who has an eternity of time at his disposable, we read of humans: "For all our days have come to their decline in your fury; we have finished our years just like a whisper. In themselves the days of our years are seventy years; and if because of special mightiness they are eighty years, yet their insistence is on trouble and hurtful things; for it must quickly pass by, and away we fly." -Psalm 90:9, 10.

Why is life today so short, since the Bible clearly teaches that God's purpose is for man to live forever? (Genesis 1:27, 28; Psalm 37:29) Instead of an unlimited life span as God has purposed, why do humans on an average have, at best, less than 30,000 days? Why do humans have so little time? Who or what is responsible for this sad situation? The Bible provides clear and satisfying answers.

Next time: Ever Less Time

Watchtower, 1999

The Meaning OF "The Hidden Manna"

"To him that conquers I will give some of the hidden manna," said the resurrected Jesus to spiritual Israel. (Revelation 2:17) The symbolic hidden manna calls to mind the manna that God commanded Moses to keep in a golden jar inside the sacred ark of the covenant. The Ark was kept in the Most Holy compartment of the tabernacle. There it remained out of sight, hidden, as it were. Kept as a memorial, this sample of manna did not perish while it remained in the Ark, so it would be an apt symbol of an imperishable food supply. (Exodus 16:32; Hebrews 9:3, 4, 23, 24) In giving the 144,000 the hidden manna, Jesus guarantees their receiving immortality and incorruptibility as a spirit sons of God. -John 6:51; 1 Corinthians 15:54.

"With you [Jehovah] is the source of life," said the psalmist. (Psalm 36:9) How well the provision of manna-both literal and symbolic-reaffirms that fundamental truth! The manna God gave to ancient Israel, the figurative manna he provided in the form of Jesus' flesh given in our behalf, and the symbolic hidden manna he gives through Jesus to the 144,000 remind all of us of our total dependence on God for life. (Psalm 39:5, 7) Let us humbly, modestly, and regularly acknowledge this dependence. In turn, Jehovah will 'do us good in our afterdays.' -Deuteronomy 8:16.

Next time: Why So Little Time?

Watchtower, 1999

"Manna" That Gives Everlasting Life

"I am the bread of life," Jesus said to the Jews. "Your forefathers ate the manna in the wilderness and yet died. . . .I am the living bread that came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread he will live forever. . . The bread that I shall give is my flesh in behalf of the life of the world." (John 6:48-51) Literal bread or manna did not and cannot give everlasting life. But those who exercise faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice will eventually enjoy the blessing of everlasting life. - Matthew 20:28.

The majority of those who benefit from Jesus' ransom will enjoy everlasting life on a paradise earth. "A great crowd" of these-prefigured by the "vast mixed company" of aliens who joined the Israelites in their Exodus from Egypt-will survive the coming "great tribulation" that will rid the earth of all wickedness. (Revelation 7:9, 10, 14; Exodus 12:38) An even greater reward is enjoyed by those whom the Israelites themselves foreshadowed. The apostle Paul described these ones, numbering 144,000, as constituting the spiritual Israel of God. Their reward at death is a resurrection to life in heaven (Galatians 6:16; Hebrews 3:1; Revelation 14:1) There Jesus will give them a special kind of manna.

Next time: The Meaning OF "The Hidden Manna"

Watchtower, 1999

Fortifiy Your Appreciation For God's Provisions

Jesus also employed repetition. The mind, of course, may readily comprehend a certain point-a Bible principle, for example-but taking it to heart and making it part of the Christian "new personality" may take a little longer, especially if old worldly ways and attitudes are deeply entrenched. (Ephesians 4:22-24) That certainly was the case with Jesus' disciples when it came to overcoming pride and developing humility. Jesus had to teach them about humility on a number of occasions, each time, presenting the same basic point from a different angle so that it would sink in, which it eventually did. -Matthew 18:1-4; 23:11, 12; Luke 14:7-11; John 13:5, 12-17.

In modern times, Christian meetings and Watchtower publications follow Jesus' example in the well-thought-out use of repetition. So let us appreciate this as an expression of God's loving concern for us and never become weary of what we receive, as the Israelites wearied of the manna. Indeed, as we patiently apply ourselves to absorbing Jehovah's regular reminders, we will see fine fruitage in our lives. (2 Peter 3:1) Such an appreciative attitude truly shows that we are "getting the sense" of God's Word in our hearts as well as in our minds. (Matthew 13:15, 19, 23) To that end, we have a fine example in the psalmist David, who, although not having the variety of spiritual food that we receive today, described Jehovah's laws as "sweeter than honey and the flowing honey of the combs"! - Psalm 19:10.

Next time: "Manna" That Gives Everlasting Life

Watchtower, 1999

Fortifiy Your Appreciation For God's Provisions

Conclusion of A Lesson For Israel Benefits Christians

Imperfect humans can lose their appreciation for things that become a routine part of life-even if these things are a reflection of Jehovah's loving concern. For example, the supernatural provision of manna both astonished and gratified the Israelites at the start, but in time many of them complained. "Our soul has come to abhor the contemptible bread," they moaned disrespectfully-an indication that they were beginning to 'draw away from the living God. (Numbers 11:6; 21:5; Hebrews 3:12) Their example , therefore, serves as "a warning to us upon whom the ends of the systems of things have arrived." -1 Corinthians 10:11

How can we take to heart this warning example? One way is by never allowing Bible teachings or the provisions we receive through the faithful and discreet slave class to become ordinary, or commonplace. (Matthew 24:45) Once we start to take Jehovah's gifts for granted or become bored with them, our relationship with him begins to cool off.

For good reason, Jehovah does not flood us with a constant downpour of exciting new things. Rather, he sheds increased light on his Word gradually, progressively. (Proverbs 4:18) This allows his people to assimilate and put into practice the things they learn. Jesus followed his Father's example when teaching his early disciples. He explained God's Word to them "as far as they were able to listen," or "understand," as some translations put it. -Mark 4:33; compare John 16:12.

Next time: Fortify Your Appreciation For God's Provisions

Watchtower, 1999

A Lesson For Israel Benefits Christians

When Jehovah provided the manna, he had more in mind than simply satisfying the physical needs of some three million Israelites. He wanted 'to humble them and put them for to the test' so as to refine and discipline them for their own benefit. (Deuteronomy 8A:16; Isaiah 48:17 ) If they responded that refining and discipline, Jehovah would delight in 'doing them good in their afterdays' by granting them peace, prosperity and happiness in the Promised Land.

One vital thing that they needed to learn was that "not by bread alone does man live by every of Jehovah's mouth does man live." (Deuteronomy 8:3) Had God not commanded the manna, the people would have starved-a fact they readily admitted. (Exodus 16:3, 4) Appreciative Israelites were daily reminded of their total dependence on Jehovah and were therefore humbled. Once in the Promised Land with its material abundance, they would be less likely to forget Jehovah and their dependence on him.

Like the Israelites, Christians must remain conscious of their dependence on God for life's necessities-physical and spiritual. (Matthew 5:3; 6:31-33) In answer to one of the Devil's temptations, Jesus Christ quoted the words of Moses as found at Deuteronomy 8Z:3, saying: "It is not written, 'Man must live not on bread alone, but on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah's mouth.' " (Matthew 4:4) Yes, true worshipers of God are nourished by reading Jehovah's expressions found in his Word. Additionally, their faith is strengthened when they experience the beneficial effects of these expressions in their lives as they walk with God and put his Kingdom interests in first place.

Next time: Conclusion of the above subject

Watchtower, 1999

Benefiting From "The Grain Of Heaven

SHORTLY after their miraculous deliverance from Egypt, the Israelites displayed a serious lack of faith in their Deliverer, Jehovah. As a result, Jehovah had them wander about in the wilderness of Sinai for 40 years. During all that time, the Israelites and the "vast mixed company" of aliens who joined them ate and drank " to satisfaction." (Exodus 12:37, 38;) Psalm 78:23-25 tells us how this was possible: "He [Jehovah] proceeded to command the cloudy skies above, and he opened the very doors of heaven. And he kept raining upon them manna to eat, and the grain of heaven he gave to them. Men ate the very bread of powerful ones; provisions he sent them to satisfaction."

As a partaker of the manna, Moses described this unique food. He wrote that in the morning after "the layer of dew evaporated. . . ., upon the surface of the wilderness there was a fine flaky thing, fine like hoarfrost upon the earth. When the sons of Israel got to see it, they began to to say to one another: 'What is it?' " Or literally in Hebrew, "man hu'?" This expression was probably the origin of the word "manna," the name that the Israelites gave the food. Moses said: "It was white like coriander seed, and its taste was like that of flat cakes with honey." -Exodus 16:13-15, 31 footnote.

The manna was not a naturally occurring food, as some argue. A supernatural force was involved in its provisions. For example, its availability was not limited to location or season. If kept overnight, it bred worms and began to stink; yet, the double portion that each family gathered on the day before the weekly Sabbath did not spoil overnight, so it could be eaten on the Sabbath-the day on which no manna appeared. Certainly, the manna was a miraculous provision. -Exodus 16:19-30.

The mention of "powerful ones," or "angels," in Psalm 78 suggests that Jehovah may have used angel to provide the manna. (Psalm 78:25, footnote) Whatever the case, the people had every reason to thank God for his kindness. However, most showed an ungrateful attitude toward the very One who delivered them from slavery in Egypt. We too may take Jehovah's provisions for granted or even become ungrateful if we fail to meditate on his loving-kindness. So we can be thankful that Jehovah included the record of Israel's deliverance and subsequent events for "our instruction." -Romans 15:45.

Next time: A Lesson For Israel Benefits Christians

Watchtower, 1999

The Role Of Technology

Finally, consider how Jehovah has enabled his people to benefit from technological advances. Though early Christians did not live in an era of rapid technological advancement, one development they did make us of was the codex, or leaf -book. The codex replaced the cumbersome scroll. The book The Birth Of The Codex states: " In contrast to the slow and piecemeal process by which the codex ousted the roll in secular literature, the Christian adoption of the codex seems to have been instant and universal."
This reference work also says: "So universal is the Christian use of the codex in the second century that its introduction must date well before A.D. 100." The codex was easier to use than a scroll. Scriptures could be located faster. This surely helped the early Christians who, like Paul, not only explained the Scriptures but also 'proved by references' the things they were teaching. -Acts 17:2, 3.

The technological advances in our century have been astounding. High-speed printing presses have helped to make possible the simultaneous publication of Bible literature in scores of languages. Modern technology has speeded up the work of Bible translation. Trucks, trains, ships and airplanes make it possible to transport Bible literature rapidly throughout the earth.
Telephones and fax machines have made instant communication a reality. Through his spirit, Jehovah has moved his servants to put such technology to practical use to promote the spread of the good news worldwide.
They are not using such developments out of a desire to know and employ whatever is the latest in the world. Instead, their first and foremost interest is what will help to carry out their preaching commission effectively.

"This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth," Jesus foretold. (Matthew 24:14) Just as early Christians saw a fulfillment of that prophecy, we today see such on a vast scale. Despite the enormity and difficulty of the work, during times favorable and unfavorable, amid changing laws and attitudes, in war and its advances, the good news has been and is being preached. Does this not fill you with awe at Jehovah's wisdom and amazing foresight?
We may be absolutely sure that the preaching work will be completed according to Jehovah's timetable and that his loving purpose will be accomplished to the blessing of the righteous. They will come to possess the earth and live on it forever. (Psalm 37:29; Habakkuk 2:3) If we harmonize our lives with Jehovah's purpose, we will be among them. - 1 Timothy 4:16.

Next time: Benefiting From "The Grain From Heaven"

Watchtower, 1999

Periods Of Peace And Tolerance

The preaching activity has also benefited from periods of relative peace. Though Jesus accurately foretold that in the times involved 'nation would rise against nation,' there were intervals of stability that made possible intense Kingdom preaching . (Matthew 24:7) First-century Christians lived under the Pax Romana or Roman peace. One historian wrote: "Rome had so completely subjugated the peoples of the mediterranean world that she ended for them ages of almost constant war." This stability opened the way for early Christians to travel in relative safety throughout the Roman world.

The Roman Empire strove to unite people under its strong hand. This policy promoted not only travel, tolerance and the exchange of ideas but also the concept of international brotherhood. The book On The Road To Civilization states: "The unity of the [Roman] Empire made the field[for Christian preaching] a favorable one. National barriers had been broken down. A Roman citizen was a citizen of the world.... Moreover, a religion that taught the brotherhood of man could be understood in a state which had developed the idea of universal citizenship." -Compare Acts 10:34, 35; 1 Peter 2:17.

What of our time? The 20th century has seen the most destructive wars in history, and regional wars continue to rage in some lands. (Revelation 6:4) Yet, there have also been periods of relative peace. The major powers of the world have not battled one another in all-out war for more than 50 years. This situation has greatly helped in the preaching of the good news in those lands.

The horrors of 20th century warfare have led many people to recognize the need for a world government. Fear of world war led to the formation of both the League of Nations and the United Nations. (Revelation 13:14) A proclaimed aim of both organizations has been the promoting of international cooperation and peace. People sensing such a need often respond favorably to the good news of the world government that will bring genuine and lasting peace-God's Kingdom.

Though Christians have been ferociously persecuted at times, both the first and the 20th centuries have seen periods of religious tolerance. (John 15:20; Acts 9:31) the Romans freely adopted and adapted to the gods and goddesses of the people they conquered. Wrote Professor Rodney Stark: "In many respects Rome provided for a greater level of religious freedom than was seen again until after the American Revolution." In modern times, people in many lands have become more open to other viewpoints, with the result that they have been willing to listen to the Bible message that Jehovah's Witnesses bring.

Next time: The Role Of Technology

Watchtower, 1999

The Benefits Of Law

Christian preaching has often benefited from governmental law. The Roman Empire dominated the first-century world, and its written laws had a profound influence on daily life. These laws provided safe-guards, and the early Christians benefited from them. For example, Paul's appeal to Roman law led to his release from prison and saved him from being flogged. (Acts 16:37-39; 22:25, 29) Reference to the provision of the Roman legal system helped to calm an angry mob in Ephesus. (Acts 19:35-41) Once, Paul was rescued from violence in Jerusalem because he was a Roman citizen. (Acts 23:27) Later, Roman law allowed him to make a legal defense of his faith before Caesar. (Acts 25:11) Though several of the Caesars ruled as tyrants, the laws in the first century usually allowed for "the defending and legally establishing of the good news." -Philippians 1:7.

The same hold true in many lands today. Though there have been those who would 'frame trouble by decree,' written laws in most countries regard freedom of religion as a basic right. (Psalm 94:20) Recognizing that Jehovah's Witnesses pose no threat to the social order, many governments have granted us legal recognition. In the United States, where much of the Witnesses' printing has been done, existing laws have made it possible for the Watchtower magazine to be produce continuously for 120 years and to be read worldwide.

Next time: Periods Of Peace And Tolerance

Watchtower, 1999

Religious Environment

Consider the timing of the global preaching campaigns. As to the setting in the first century, the prophecy of the 70 weeks of years, found at Daniel 9:24-27, pinpointed the year when the Messiah was to appear -29 C.E. Though first-century Jews did not understand the exact timing of matters, they were in expectation , awaiting the Messiah. (Luke 3:15) The French Manuel Biblique states: "People knew that the seventy weeks of years fixed by Daniel were drawing to a close; nobody was surprised to hear John the Baptist announce that the kingdom of God had drawn near."

What about the setting in modern times? Well, a monumental development was the enthronement of Jesus in heaven, which marked the beginning of his presence in Kingdom power. Bible prophecy shows that this took place in 1914. (Daniel 4:13-17) Anticipation of this event also caused some religious people in modern times to be filled with expectation. Expectation was evident also among the sincere Bible Students who began to publish this magazine in 1879 as Zion's Watchtower and Herald of Christ's Presence. Thus, both in the first century and in modern times, religious expectation prepared the environment for the preaching of the good news."

Another factor that helped the work of Christians in both eras was that many people were familiar with the Sacred Scriptures. In the first century, Jewish communities were scattered throughout the surrounding Gentile nations. Those communities had synagogues where people regularly met to hear the Scriptures read and discussed. Thus, early Christians were able to build on the religious knowledge that people already had. (Acts 8:28-36; 17:1, 2) Early in our era, Jehovah's people enjoyed a similar environment in many lands. The Bible was widely available throughout the realm of Christendom, especially in Protestant lands. It was read in many churches; millions owned a copy. The Bible was already in people's hands, but they needed help to understand what they possessed.

Next time: The Benefits Of Law

Watchtower, 1999

A Difficult Assignment

As was the building of the Ark in Noah's day, the work of the Kingdom preaching has been an enormous project-both in the first century and in modern times. The task of reaching all peoples with any message is difficult enough, but this task was especially challenging. In the first century, the disciples were relatively few. Their Leader, Jesus, had been executed as an alleged seditionist. The Jewish religion was well established. A magnificent temple stood in Jerusalem. Non-Jewish religions in the Mediterranean area were also well established, with temples and priesthoods. Similarly, as "the time of the end" began in 1914, the anointed Christians were few, and adherents to other religions claiming to serve God were many.-Daniel 12:9.

Jesus had warned his followers that they would be persecuted. He said: " People will deliver you up to tribulation and will kill you, and you will be objects of hatred by all the nations on account of my name." (Matthew 24:9) Added to such problems particularly in "the last days," Christians would find themselves amid "critical times hard to deal with." (2 Timothy 3:1) The magnitude of the work, the certainty of persecution, and the difficult of the times have made the work of preaching challenging and difficult. Great faith has been needed.

While Jehovah knew that there would be difficulties, he also knew that nothing would stop the work. Success was foretold in a well-known prophecy having a remarkable fulfillment in both the first and the 20th centuries: "This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth." -Matthew 24:14.

Filled with faith and holy spirit, God's servants in the first century went forth to carry out their commission. Because Jehovah proved to be with them, they achieved success far beyond what they might have expected. By the time Paul wrote to the Colossians, about 27 years after the death of Jesus, he could say of the good news that it was "preached in all creation that is under heaven." (Colossians 1:23) Comparably, by the close of the 20th century, the good news is being preached in 233 lands

Millions have embraced the good news in recent decades. Many have done so under unfavorable circumstances-during periods of war, ban and intense persecution. That was true also in the first century. On one occasion Paul and Silas were brutally beaten with rods and thrown into prison. What an unlikely situation to do just that. Paul and Silas were released, and the jailer together with his family became believers. (Acts 16:19-33) Such experiences show that the good news cannot be silenced by those who oppose it. (Isaiah 54:17) Still, the history of Christianity had not been one of unrelenting adversity and persecution. Let us now focus on some favorable developments that have helped smooth the way for the successful preaching of the good news in both the first and the 20th centuries.

Next time: Religious Environment

Watchtower, 1999

Jehovah Prepares The Way

BECAUSE Jehovah is a God of love, it is his will that "all sorts of men should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth." ( 1 Timothy 2:4) This has called for an international preaching and teaching campaign. In the first century, this preaching made the Christian congregation "a pillar and support of the truth." (1 Timothy 3:15) Afterward came a long period of apostasy in which the light of truth became dim. In recent times, during "the time of the end," "True knowledge" has again become abundant, bringing a Bible-based hope of everlasting salvation to millions. -Daniel 12:4.

Despite the unrelenting efforts of Satan to thwart God's purpose , the preaching activity in both the first and the 20th centuries has met with amazing success. It calls to mind the prophecy of Isaiah. Concerning the return of Jewish exiles to Judah in the sixth century B.C.E., Isaiah wrote: "Let every valley be raised up, and every mountain and hill be made low. And the knobby ground must become level land, and the rugged ground a valley plain." (Isaiah 40:4) Jehovah has also prepared and smoothed the way for the great preaching campaigns of both the first and the 20th centuries.

This does not mean that Jehovah directly influenced every development on earth in order to advance the preaching of the good news; nor does it mean that Jehovah exercised his foresight to know in precise detail everything that would occur. Granted, he is able both to foresee and to shape future events. (Isaiah 46:9-11) But he is also able to react to developments as they unfold. Like an experience shepherd who knows both how to direct and how to protect his flock, Jehovah guides his people. He leads them toward salvation, protecting their spirituality and moving them to take advantage of situations and developments that promote the successful preaching of the good news worldwide. -Psalm 23:1-4.

Next time: A Difficult Assignment

Watchtower, 1999

Never Give Up!

Though we live in "critical times hard to deal with," we can be sure that Jehovah is fully in control. He is supporting and sustaining his people as they work to complete the preaching of the good news before God's appointed time to end this wicked system of things arrives. ( 2 Timothy 3:1; Matthew 24:14) Jehovah invites us to be "fellow workers" with him. ( 1 Corinthians 3:9) We are assured too, that Christ Jesus is with us in this work and that we can rely on angelic backing and direction. - Matthew 28:20; Revelation 14:6.

Because Noah and his family exercised faith in Jehovah's promises, they were saved through the flood waters. Those who exercise similar faith will be saved through the coming "great tribulation." (Revelation 7:14) We live in times that are truly exciting. Momentous events lie ahead! Soon, God will act to usher in glorious new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness will dwell. ( 2 Peter 3:13) Never, never give up in your conviction that whatever God says, he is also able to do. -Romans 4:21.

Next time: Jehovah Prepares The Way

Watchtower, 1999

Jehovah Backs Up His Work

Jesus foretold that our day would parallel days of Noah. God has again determined to destroy the wicked and has set a time for this to happen. (Matthew 24:36-39) He has also set things in motion for the preservation of the righteous. Whereas Noah was to build an ark, God's servants today are to proclaim Jehovah's purposes, teach his Word, and make disciples. - Matthew 28:19.

If Jehovah has not been with Noah to support and sustain him, the ark would not have been built. (Compare Psalm 127:1) Similarly, without Jehovah's backing, true Christianity would be unlikely to survive much less prosper. This was recognized in the first century by Gamaliel, and esteemed Pharisee and teacher of the Law. When the Jewish Sanhedrin wanted to do away with the apostles, he cautioned that court: "Do not meddle with these men, but let them alone; (because, if this scheme or this work is from men, it will be overthrown; but if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them.)" -Acts 5:38/, 39.

The success of this preaching activity both in the first and today, has proved that this is not a work from men, but is of God. The following article will discuss some of the exciting circumstances and developments that have helped to make this work so successful on such a vast scale.

Next time: Never Give Up!

Watchtower, 1999

A Colossal Building Project

To my readers: Sorry for not having any blogs the last few days, but I have been in the process of moving back here to Colorado and unpacking things so that I can start doing my blogs again. Unless something unforseen happens, I will be doing my blogs everyday again as I did about a year ago, so please forgive me. Thank you for reading my blogs. I would like to reach out to as many of you as possible because the days are coming and we all need to be awake in faith and working for God, so that those who are strong in Faith and work for God can enjoy his promises for everlasting life on Paradise earth after the Resurrection.



Consider this assignment from Noah's viewpoint. Because Noah''s was a man of God, he knew that Jehovah could destroy the ungodly. Before that would happen, however, there was work to be done-a work that required faith. The construction of the ark would be a colossal project. God had specified its dimensions. The ark would be longer than some modern day sports fields and as high as a five-story building. (Genesis 6:15) The builders would be inexperienced and few. They would not have the sophisticated tools and equipment available today. Moreover, since he did not have Jehovah's ability to foreknow the future, Noah had no way of knowing what situations would develop over the years that might either help or hinder the building project. Noah likely pondered many questions. How would he gather the animals? What food would be needed and how much? When, exactly would the foretold Deluge occur?

Then there were the social conditions. Wickedness abounded. The mighty Nephilim-the hybrid offspring of wicked angels and women- filled the earth with violence. (Genesis 6:1-4, 13) Furthermore, ark building would not be a project that could be carried out in secret. People would wonder what Noah was doing, and he would tell them. ( 2 Peter 2:5) Could they be expected to approve? Hardly! Some years earlier, faithful Enoch had proclaimed the destruction of the wicked. So unpopular was his message that God "took him," or cut his life short, evidently to prevent him from being slain by His enemies. (Genesis 5:24; Hebrews 11:5; Jude 14, 15) Not only was Noah to proclaim a similarly unpopular message but he was also to build an ark. As that ark was being constructed, it would serve as a powerful reminder of Noah's faithfulness in the face of wicked contemporaries!

Noah knew that the project had the backing and blessing of Almighty God. Had not Jehovah himself assigned the work? Jehovah had assured Noah that the and his family would enter a completed ark and be preserved alive through the global Flood. God even underscored the certainty of that with a solemn agreement. (Genesis 6:18, 19) Likely, Noah recognized that Jehovah both anticipated and evaluated all that was involved before making the assignment. Moreover, Noah knew that Jehovah had the power to step in to help him when needed. So Noah's faith moved him to action. Like his descendant Abraham, Noah was "fully convinced that what [God] had promised hie was also able to do."-Romans 4:21.

As the years passed and the ark took shape, Noah's faith was fortified. Construction and logistic problems were resolved. Trials were overcome. No opposition could halt the work. Noah's family experienced Jehovah's support and protection. As Noah pressed on, 'the tested quality of his faith worked out endurance." (James 1:2-4) Eventually, the ark was completed, the Flood came, and Noah and his family survived. Noah experience the fulfillment of God's promises, as Joshua did later. Noah's faith was rewarded.

Next time: Jehovah Backs Up His Work

Watchtower, 1999

God Forsees The Future

So far, we have seen that while God allows for free will and independent human rulership, he has both the power and the will to act to accomplish his purpose. Yet, there is another factor that contributes to the certain fulfillment of God's promises. Jehovah can foresee the future. (Isaiah 42:9) Through his prophet, God said: " Remember the first things of a long time ago, that I am the Divine One and there is no other God, nor anyone else like me; the One telling from the beginning the finale, and from long ago the things that have not been done; the One saying, 'My own counsel will stand, and everything that is my delight I shall do.' " (Isaiah 46:9, 10) An experienced farmer knows when and where to plant seed, but there still might be some uncertainty about how things will develop. However, "the King of eternity" has accurate knowledge to foresee precisely when and where he should act to carry out his purpose. -1 Timothy 1:17.

Consider how God exercised foreknowledge in the days of Noah. Because of the widespread badness that had filled the earth, God determined to bring an end to disobedient humankind. He set a time when he would do this, 120 years into the future. (Genesis 6:3) In setting that specific period, Jehovah took into consideration more than the destruction of the wicked, something that he could do at any time. Jehovah's timetable also provided for the preservation of the righteous. (Compare Genesis 5:29) In his wisdom, God foreknew when to assign the work that he would lead to that end. He gave sufficiently detailed information to Noah. Noah was to build an ark "for the saving of his household," and the wicked were to be destroyed by a global deluge. - Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 6:13, 14, 18, 19.

Next time: A Colossal Building Project

Watchtower, 1999

God Acts To Accomplish His Will

In his dealing with the nation of Israel, God demonstrated that he will accomplish his purpose. For example, Jehovah assured Moses that he would deliver the Israelites from Egypt and bring thm into the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey. (Exodus 3:8) This was a momentous and reassuring proclamation. It would involve releasing those Israelites-numbering with their companions about three million-from a mighty nation that strongly opposed their departure. (Exodus 3:19) the land to which they would be brought was inhabited by powerful nations that would strongly resist their arrival. (Deuteronomy 7:1) In between was a wilderness where the Israelites would need food and water. This was a situation that allowed Jehovah to display his supreme power and Godship. -Leviticus 25:38.

God led the Israelites out of Egypt through a series of mighty acts. First, he brought ten devastating plagues on the nation of Egypt. Next, he parted the Red Sea, enabling the Israelites to escape while the pursuing Egyptian army perished. (Psalm 78:12, 13. 43:51) Following that, he cared for the Israelites during their 40 years in the wilderness, feeding them with manna, providing water, and even seeing to it that their mantles did not wear out and that their feet did not become swollen. (Deuteronomy 8:3, 4) After the Israelites entered the Promised Land, Jehovah led them to victory over their enemies. Joshua, who excercised strong faith in Jehovah's promises, was an eyewitness of all these things. Thus, he could confidently say to the older men of his day; "you well know with all your souls that not one word out of all the good words that Jehovah your God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you." - Joshua 23:14.

Like Joshua of old, Christians today are fully confident that God is willing and able to act in behalf of those who serve him. This conviction is an essential part of our faith. The apostle Paul wrote: "Without faith it is impossible to please him well, for he that approaches God must believe that he . . .becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him." -Hebrews 11:6.

Next time: God Forsees The Future

Watchtower, 1999