Jehovah Rejoices Over Our Service to Him

God knows our inborn weaknesses and shortcomings, and he takes these into account.  "He himself well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust," wrote David.  Jehovah realizes the impact our background has in making us what we are.  In fact, he knows us far better than we know ourselves. -Psalm 103:14.

He knows that many of us would like to be different, but we are unable to overcome our imperfections.  Our situation could be compared to that of the apostle Paul, who wrote:  "The g0od that I wish I do not do, but the bad that I do not wish  is what I practice." All of us are engaged in the same struggle.  In some cases this may result in our having  a self-condemning heart. -Romans 7:19. 

Always remember this: More important than how we view ourselves is how Jehovah views us.  Whenever he sees us trying to please him, he reacts not simply with mild satisfaction but with rejoicing.  (Proverbs 27:11)  Though what we achieve may seem to be relatively little in our own eyes, our willingness and good motive delight him.  He looks beyond what we accomplish; he discerns what we want to do; he is aware of our wishes and desires.  Jehovah can read our heart. -Jeremiah 12:3; 17:10.

For example, many of Jehovah's Witnesses are naturally timid and reserved people who prefer to keep a low profile.  For such ones, preaching the good news from house to house can be a daunting challenge. Yet, moved by a desire to serve God and to help their neighbors and talk about the Bible.  They may feel that they accomplish little, and this may rob them of their joy.  Their heart might suggest that their  public ministry is not worthwhile.  But Jehovah surely rejoices over the great effort such ones put into their service.  Moreover, they cannot be sure when and where the seeds of truth sown will sprout, grow and bear fruit. -Ecclesiastes 11:6; Mark 12:41-44; 2 Corinthians 8:12.

Other Witnesses suffer prolonged ill health or are getting on in years.  For them, attending meetings regularly at the Kingdom Hall can be fraught with pain and anxiety.  Listening to a talk about the preaching work might remind them of what they used to do and what they still want to do, though infirmity holds them back.  Such may have pangs of guilt because they are not able to follow the counsel as much as they would like to.  Yet, Jehovah surely treasures their loyalty and endurance.  As  long as they remain loyal, he never forgets their faithful record. -Psalm 18:25; 37:28.

Next time: "Assure Our Hearts"

The Watchtower, 2000