Conclusion of Saying No-A Matter Of Life And Death

As a result, Paul though imperfect, kept his integrity to Jehovah right to the end. Not long before his death, he could write: "I have fought the fine fight, I have run the course to the finish, I have observed the faith. From this time on there is reserved for me the crown of righteousness." -2Timothy 4:7, 8.

As we war against our imperfections, what encouraging examples we have, not just in Paul, but also in those who served as examples to him-Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego and many others. Imperfect humans though they were, each of these men of faith said no to wrongdoing, not because of doggedness or stubbornness, but because of moral strength born of Jehovah's spirit. (Galatians 5:22, 23) They were spiritual men. They hungered for every utterance of Jehovah's mouth. (Deuteronomy 8:3) His word meant life to them (Deuteronomy 32:47) Above all, they loved Jehovah and feared him, and with his help, they patiently cultivated a hatred for wrongdoing. -Psalm 97:10; Proverbs 1:7.

May we be like them. Indeed, to endure in saying not to wrongdoing in all its forms, we need Jehovah's spirit just as they did. Jehovah generously gives us his spirit if we sincerely ask for it, study his Word, and regularly attend Christian meetings. -Psalm 119:105; Luke 11:13; Hebrews 10:24, 25.

Timothy, mentioned at the outset, was glad he did not neglect his spiritual needs. The young female employee, who overheard his conversation with his workmate and was wrongly attracted by Timothy's innocence, later quietly invited Timothy to her home when her husband was out. Timothy declined. Not easily put off, she extended the invitation on many occasions, like Potiphar's wife. Timothy firmly but kindly said no each time. He even gave this woman a fine witness from God's Word. Deeply grateful to Jehovah for giving him the moral fortitude to say no, Timothy is now happily married to a delightful fellow Christian. Indeed, Jehovah will bless and fortify all who want to maintain their Christian integrity by saying no to wrongdoing. -Psalm 1:1-3.

Next time:We Need To Know Who God Is

Watchtower, 1999