GOOD EXAMPLES Are You Benefiting From Them?

"YOU came to be an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia."  The apostle Paul wrote these words to faithful Christians living in Thessalonica.  The example they set for fellow believers was truly commendable. Still, the Thessalonians were themselves responding to the example that Paul and his associates had set.  Paul said:  "The good news we preach did not turn up  among  you with speech alone but also with power and with holy spirit and strong conviction, just as you know what sort of men we became to you for your sakes; and you became imitators of us." -1 Thessalonians.

Yes, Paul did more than preach sermons.  His very life was a sermon-an example of faith, endurance, and self-sacrifice.  Because of this, Paul and his associates came to be a potent influence in the lives of the Thessalonians, moving them to accept the truth "under much tribulation."  By no means, though, were Paul and his fellow workers the only positive influence on those believers.  The example of others who endured tribulation was also an encouragement.  Paul wrote to the Thessalonians:  "You became imitators, brothers, of the congregation of God that are in Judea in union with Christ Jesus, because you also began  suffering at the hands of your own countrymen the same things as they also are suffering at the hands of the Jews." -1 Thessalonians 2:14

Next time: Christ Jesus-The Foremost Exemplar

The Watchtower, 2000

We Have Been Entrusted With a Treasure

The apostle Paul spoke of  a "treasure in earthen vessels."  That treasure is the God-given commission to preach, and the earthen vessels are the humans to whom Jehovah has entrusted this treasure.  Since those humans are imperfect and limited, Paul goes on to say that the result of their being given such a  commission is that "the power beyond what is normal may be God's and not that out of ourselves."  (2 Corinthians 4:7) Yes, we can count on Jehovah  to furnish the power needed to enable us to accomplish the work at hand.

Often we have to make sacrifices. It may be uncomfortable or inconvenient to work in some territories.  There are areas where most people seem extremely apathetic, even hostile.  Much effort may be expended in such localities with no apparent success.  But no effort  is too great when so much is at stake.  Remember, the seeds you sow can give  people happiness now as well as everlasting life in the future.  The words of Psalm 126:6 have proved true many times:  "The one that without fail goes forth, even weeping carrying along a bagful of seed, will without fail come in with a joyful cry, carrying along is sheaves."

Let us seize every appropriate opportunity to sow seeds of Kingdom truth generously.  May we never forget that, although we are the ones who plant and water the seeds, it is Jehovah who makes them grow.  (1 Corinthians 3:6, 7)  Yet, just as Jesus and the angels accomplish  their part of the work, Jehovah expects us to accomplish our ministry fully.  (2 Timothy 4:5)  May we pay constant attention to our teaching, to our attitude, and to our eagerness in the ministry. Why? Paul answers: "By doing this you  will save both yourself and those who listen to you." -1 Timothy 4:16.

Next time: GOOD EXAMPLES Are You  Benefiting From Them?

The Watchtower, 2000

The Work of the True God

In 1953, Robert, Lila and their children moved from a big city into a dilapidated old farm house in rural Pennsylvania, U.S.A.  Shortly after moving in, Robert decided to install a bathroom underneath an enclosed flight of stairs.  After removing several boards, he discovered that behind the wall, mice had stowed away shredded papers, empty walnut shells, and other debris.  There,  in the      midst of it all, lay a copy of The Golden Age magazine.  Robert was particularly interested in an article on the subject of raising children.  He was so impressed by the clear, Bible-based direction given in the magazine that he told Lila that they were going to join "the religion of The Golden Age."  Within just a few weeks, Jehovah's Witnesses explained   that The Golden Age now had a new title, Awake! Robert and Lila began to study the Bible regularly with the Witnesses, and eventually they got baptized. They, in turn, sowed seeds of truth in  their children and reaped bountifully.  Today, more than 2o members of this family, including all of Robert and Lily's seven children, are baptized servants of Jehovah God.

Some 40 years ago, William and Ada, a married couple from Puerto Rico, had no interest in studying the Bible. Whenever Jehovah's Witnesses knocked on their door, the couple pretended not to be at home. One day William visited a junkyard to purchase an item needed for a repair at home.  As he was leaving, he noticed a bright lime-green book lying in  a large trash container.  It was Religion, a book published by Jehovah's Witnesses back in 1940.  William took the book home and was thrilled to read about the difference between false and true religion.  The next time Jehovah's Witnesses called, William and Ada gladly listened to their message and began to study the Bible with them.  Some months later they were baptized at the Divine Will International Assembly in 1958.  Since then, they have helped more than 50 individuals to become part of our Christian brotherhood.

Karl was only 11 years old and somewhat  mischievous.  It seemed to him that he was always getting into trouble.  His father, a German Methodist preacher, had taught him that bad people burn in hell after death.  So Karl was very afraid of hell.  One day in 1917, Karl noticed  a printed piece of paper on the street and picked it up. As he read it, his eyes quickly focused on the question:  "What is hell?"  The paper was an invitation to a public lecture on the subject of hell, sponsored by the Bible Students, known today as Jehovah's Witnesses. About a year later, after several sessions of Bible study, Karl was baptized, thereby becoming one of the Bible Students.  In 1925 he was invited to work at the world headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses-where he still serves.  A Christian career spanning over eight decades began with a piece of paper on the street.

True, it is beyond human ability to determine if and to what extent the angels were directly involved in these experiences. Still, we should never doubt that Jesus and the angels play and active role in the preaching work and that Jehovah can guide matters as he sees fit.  These and many similar experiences illustrate the potential for goo that our literature may have after it leaves our hands. 

Next time: We Have Been Entrusted With a Treasure

The Watchtower, 2000

We Eagerly Fulfill Our Role

Why are Jesus and the angels so interested in our work?  Jesus gave one reason when he said:  "I tell you, joy arises among the angels of God over one sinner that repents." (Luke 15:10) We too share  that genuine interest in people.  Hence, we do our best to spread seeds of Kingdom truth everywhere.  The words of Ecclesiastes 11:6 can be applied to our work. There the Bible admonishes us: "In the morning sow your seed and until the evening do not let your hand rest; for you are not knowing where this will have success, either here or there, or whether both of them will alike be good."  Granted, for every person who accepts our message there may be hundreds or even thousands who reject it.  But like the angels, we rejoice when even "one sinner" accepts the message of salvation.

Much is involved in the preaching of the good news.  One important aid in this work is the Bible-based printed material used by Jehovah's Witnesses. In some respects, these publications are also like sees that are spread everywhere. We do not know where they will have success.  Sometimes a publication may change hands  before someone reads it. Jesus and the angels may even guide events in some instances to make this happen for the benefit of righthearted ones.  Consider some experiences that illustrate how Jehovah can work out unexpected and wonderful results using literature that has been left with people.

Next time: The Work of the True God

The Watchtower, 2000

The Angels Declare Good Tidings

When Jehovah created the earth, the angels "joyfully cried out together, and  . . . began shouting in applause."  (Job 38:4-7) Ever since then, these heavenly creatures have displayed keen interest in human affairs.  Jehovah has used them to convey divine pronouncements to humans.  (Psalm 103:20)  This is especially true in connection with the spreading of the good news in our day.  In the Revelation given him, the apostle John saw an "angel flying in mid heaven" who has "everlasting good news to declare as glad tidings to those who dwell on the earth, and to every nation and tribe and tongue and people, saying in a loud voice: 'Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of the judgment by him has arrived.' " -Revelation 14:6, 7.

The Bible refers to angels as "spirits for public service, sent forth to minister for those who are going to inherit salvation."  (Hebrews 1:14) As the angels eagerly carry out their assigned duties, they have the opportunity to observe us and our work.  As if on a very conspicuous theater stage, we carry out our work in front of a heavenly audience.  (1 Corinthians 4:9) How sobering and thrilling to know that we are not working alone as sowers of Kingdom truth!

Next time: We Eagerly Fulfill Our Role

The Watchtower, 2000

Jesus-The Sower of Kingdom Truth

Jesus, a perfect man, had the power to provide many good things in a material way for the people of his time.  For example, he could have cleared up many of the medical misconceptions of his day,or he could have advanced human understanding in other sciences.  Yet, he made it clear very early in his ministry that his commission was that of preaching the good news.  (Luke 4:17-21)  Ans toward the end of his ministry, he explained:  "For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth."  (John 18:37)  So he occupied himself with the sowing of seeds of Kingdom truth. Teaching his contemporaries about God and His purposes was more important than any other education Jesus could have given them. -Romans 11:33-36.

Jesus alluded to himself as the Sower of Kingdom truth.  (John 4:35-38)  He spread seeds of good news at every opportunity. Even as he was dying on the stake, he proclaimed good news about a future earthly paradise.  (Luke 23:43)  Moreover, his deep concern that the good news be preached  did not end with his death on the torture stake. Before his ascension to heaven, he commanded the apostles to continue sowing seeds of Kingdom truth and to make disciples. Then Jesus made a remarkable promise. He said: "Look!  I am with you all the days until the conclusion of the system of things." -Matthew 28:19, 20.

With these words Jesus made a commitment to support, direct and safeguard the work of preaching the good news "all the days until the conclusion of the system of things."  Right down to our own day,Jesus continues to have a personal interest in the evangelizing work.  He is our Leader, in charge of the sowing of Kingdom truth.  (Matthew 23:10)  As Head of the Christian congregation, he is responsible before Jehovah for this worldwide work. -Ephesians 1:22, 23; Colossians 1:18.


Next time: The Angels Declare Glad Tidings

The Watchtower, 2000

SOWING SEEDS OF KINGDOM TRUTH

"In the morning sow your seed and until the evening do not let your hand rest." -Ecclesiastes 11:6.



AGRICULTURE played a vital role in ancient Hebrew society. That is why Jesus, whose whole life as a human was spent in the Promised Land, incorporated agriculture themes into his illustrations.  For example, he likened his preaching of the good news of God's Kingdom to the sowing of the seed.  (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23; Luke 8:5-15)  To this day, whether we live in an agricultural society or not, sowing spiritual seed in this way is the most important work that Christians do.

It is a great privilege to share in the sowing of Bible truth in this time of the end.  Romans 10:14, 15 well expresses the importance of this work:  "How, in turn, will they hear without someone to preach?  How, in turn, will they preach unless they have been sent forth?  Just as it is written:  "How comely are the feet of those who declare the good of good things!' " Never has it been more important to press ahead with a positive attitude in fulfilling this God-given commission.  For that reason Jehovah's Witnesses are fully immersed in the production and distribution of Bibles and Bible study aids in 340 languages.  The preparation of this material requires over 18,000 volunteers at their headquarters and at branch offices in various land. And almost six million Witnesses share in distributing this Bible literature around the world.

What is the fruitage of this hard work?  As in the early days of Christianity, many today are embracing the truth.  (Acts 2:41, 46, 47)  More important, however, than the large number of newly baptized Kingdom publishers is the fact that this  great witness contributes to  the sanctification of Jehovah's name and to his vindication as the only true God.  (Matthew 6:9)  Further, a knowledge of God's Word is improving the lives of many and can lead to their salvation. -Acts 13:47)

The apostles were fully aware of the life-giving of the good news, and they felt deeply for those to whom they preached.  this is clear from the words of the apostle, when he wrote:  "Having a tender affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you, not only the good news of God, but also our own souls, because you became beloved to us."  (1 Thessalonians 2:8)  In manifesting such genuine concern for people, Paul and the other apostles were imitating Jesus and the heavenly angels, who are very much involved in this lifesaving work.  Let us review the important roles that these heavenly servants of God play in the sowing of Kingdom truth, and let us see how their example encourages us to fulfill our role.

Next time: Jesus-The Sower of Kingdom Truth

The Watchtower, 2000

We Can Count on Jehovah's Support

Christians who are "aglow with the spirit" and who are eager to declare the good news strive to share regularly in the ministry.  (Ephesians 5:15, 16) True, circumstances vary, and not all can spend the same amount of time in this lifesaving work.  (Galatians 6:4, 5) Yet, perhaps more important than the total amount of time we spend in the preaching work is the frequency with which we speak about our hope to others.  (2 Timothy 4:1, 2)  The more we preach, the more we will appreciate the importance of this work.  (Romans 10:14, 15) We will grow in compassion and fellow feeling when we regularly come in contact with sincere people who are sighing and groaning and who are without hope. -Ezekiel 9:4; Romans 8:22.

Jehovah has entrusted us with the good news.  This is the first commission that we receive from his as his "fellow workers."  (1 Corinthians 3:6-9)  We are eager to fulfill this God-given responsibility whole-souled, to the best of our ability.  (Mark 12:30; Romans 12:1)  There are still many rightly disposed people in the world who are hungry for the truth.  There is much work to do, but we can count on Jehovah's support as we fully accomplish our ministry. -2 Timothy 4:5.

Jehovah offers us his spirit and equips us with "the sword of the spirit," God's Word.  With his help we can open our mouths "with freeness of speech to make known the sacred secret of the good news."  (Ephesians 6:17-20)  Let it be said about us what the apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in Thessalonica:  "The good news we preach did not turn up among you with speech alone but also with power and with holy spirit and strong conviction."  (1 Thessalonians 1:5) Yes, let us declare the good news with eagerness!

Next time: SOWING SEEDS OF KINGDOM TRUTH

The Watchtower, 2000

Conclusion of What Do We Owe Our Neighbor

Remember, though, that such statements refer to the world in general that is alienated from God, not to individuals.  Christians do not presume to prejudge how any individual will respond to the preaching work.  They do not have a basis for describing any individuals as goats.  It is not for us to say what the outcome will be when Jesus come to separate "the sheep" from  "the goats."  (Matthew 25:31-46) Jesus is the appointed judge; we are not.  Besides, experience has shown that some who were deeply involved in even the worst conduct  have accepted the Bible's message, changed, and become clean-living Christians.  Hence, while we may not seek association with certain individuals, we do not hesitate to speak to them about the Kingdom hope as  the opportunity presents it self.  The Scriptures speak of certain individuals who, while still unbelievers, "were rightly disposed for everlasting life."  They eventually became believers.  (Acts 13:48) We can never know who is thus rightly disposed until we have offered a witness-perhaps many times.  With this in mind, we treat those who have not yet accepted the message of salvation with "mildness" and "deep respect,"  hoping that some among them may yet respond to the message of life. -2 Timothy 2:25; 1 Peter 3:15.

Developing skills as teachers will enhance our eagerness to declare the good news.  To illustrate: An exciting game or sport may be uninteresting to a person who does not know how to play it.  But to one who plays it well, it is enjoyable.  Similarly, Christians who develop the "art of teaching" increase their joy in the ministry.  (2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9)  Paul advised Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9)  Paul advised Timothy: "Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright."   (2 Timothy 2:15) How can we develop our teaching skills?

One way is by taking in additional accurate knowledge.  The apostle Peter encourages us:  "As newborn infants, form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word, that through it you may grow to salvation."  (1 Peter 2:2) A healthy baby instinctively longs for milk.  However, a Christians may need to "form a longing" for Bible knowledge.  This can be done by cultivating good study and reading habits.  (Proverbs 2:1-6)  Effort and self-discipline are required if we are to become skillful teachers of God's Word, but such efforts bring rewards.  The delight that comes from examining God's Word will make us aglow  with God's spirit, eager to share with others the things we learn. 

Christian meetings also play a vital role in our skillful use of God's Word. When Bible texts are read during public discourses and other Scriptural discussion, we do well to follow along in our  own Bibles.  We are wise to pay close attention to meeting parts, including those that deal specifically with out preaching work.  Never should we underestimate the value of demonstrations, perhaps allowing ourselves to become distracted. Again (1 Timothy 4:16) Christian meetings build up our faith, help us form a longing for God's Word, and train us to be eager proclaimers of the good news.


Next time: We Can Count on Jehovah's Support

The Watchtower, 2000

What Do We Owe Our Neighbor?

In order to have a proper attitude toward our ministry, we must have the right motive.  Why do we preach? The main reason is seen in the words of the psalmist:  "Your loyal ones will bless you [Jehovah]. About the glory of your kingship they will talk, and about your mightiness they will speak, to make known to the sons of men his mighty acts and the glory of the splendor of his kingship."  (Psalm 145:10-12)  Yes, we preach in order to praise Jehovah publicly and to sanctify his name before all mankind. Even when few listen to us, our faithfully proclaiming the message of salvation brings praise to Jehovah.

We also preach out of love for people and in order to prevent bloodguilt.  (Ezekiel 33:8; Mark 6:34)  Related to this are the words of Paul when speaking to those outside the Christian congregation:  "Both to Greeks and to Barbarians, both  wise and to  senseless ones I am a debtor."  (Romans 1:14)  Paula felt that he owed it to people to declare the good news to them, since it is God's will that "all sorts of men should be save."  (1 Timothy 2:4) Today, we feel the same love for and obligation toward our neighbor.  Jehovah's love of mankind moved him to send his Son to earth to die for them.  (John 3:16) That was a great sacrifice.  We imitate Jehovah's love when we expend time and effort telling others about the good news of salvation based on Jesus' sacrifice.

Jehovah's Witnesses view fellow humans as potential members of the Christian  brotherhood.  We must preach boldness, yet our boldness is not confrontational. For a fact, the Bible does us strong terms when speaking of the world in general. The word "world" itself is used in a negative sense by Paul when he speaks of "the wisdom of this world" and "worldly desires."  (1 C0rinthians 3:19; Titus 2:12)  Paul also reminded Ephesian Christians that when they walked "according to the system of things of this world, they were "dead" spiritually.   (Ephesians 2:1-3) These  statements and others like them are in harmony with the apostle John's words:  "The whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one." -1 John 5:19.

Next time: Conclusion of What Do We Owe Our Neighbor?

The Watchtower, 2000

"Do Not Put Out the Fire of the Spirit"

The apostle Paul admonished the Thessalonians:  "Do not put out the fire of the spirit."  (1 Thessalonians 5:19) Yes, actions and attitudes that run contrary to godly principles could impede the activity of the holy spirit in our behalf.  (Ephesians 4:30) Christians today have the assignment to preach the good news. We treat this privilege with deep respect.  It comes as not surprise to us that those who do not know God treat our preaching work with contempt.  But when a Christians purposely neglects his ministry, it might result in extinguishing the fire of God's motivating spirit.

Some outside the Christian congregation may view our ministry as mere distribution of literature.  Others may erroneously  conclude that we go from house to house simply to receive donations.  If we allow such negative views to influence our attitude, this may reduce our effectiveness in the ministry.  Rather than allowing such thinking to affect us, let us maintain the view that Jehovah and Jesus have toward our ministry.  The apostle Paul voiced that lofty view  when he declared: "We are not peddlers of the word of God as many men are, but as out of sincerity, yes, as sent from God,under God's view, in company with Christ, we are speaking." -2 Corinthians 2:17.

Shortly after Jesus' death, his disciples in Jerusalem faced a period of persecution.  They were threatened and commanded to stop preaching.  Yet, the Bible says that they were "filled with the holy spirit and were speaking the word of God with boldness."  (Acts 4:17, 21, 31) Paul's words to Timothy some years later demonstrate the positive disposition that Christians should maintain.  Paul said: "God gave us no a spirit of cowardice,but that of power and of love and of soundness of mind.  Therefore, do not become ashamed of the witness about our Lord, neither of me a prisoner for his sake, but take your part in suffering evil for the good news according to the power of God." -2 Timothy 12:7, 8.

Next time: What Do We Own Our Neighbor?

The Watchtower, 2000

Like "a Burning Fire" In Our Hearts

The ministry that Jehovah has entrusted to us is far too precious to be allowed to become commonplace. The apostle Paul considered the preaching of the good news a very great privilege, and he viewed himself as unworthy to be trusted with it.  He said: "To me, a man less than the least of all holy ones, this undeserved kindness was given, that I should declare to the nations the good news about the unfathomable riches of the Christ and should make men see how the sacred secret is administered which has from the indefinite past been hidden in God, who created all things." -Ephesians 3:8, 9.

Paul's positive attitude about his ministry is an excellent example for us.  In his letter to the Romans, he stated:  "There is eagerness on my part to declare the good news." He was not ashamed of the good news.  (Romans 1:15, 16) He had the right attitude and was eager to carry out his ministry.

The apostle Paul recognized the need for maintaining a zealous viewpoint, so he admonished the Christians in   Rome: "Do not loiter at your business.  Be aglow with the spirit. Slave for Jehovah."  (Romans 12:11)  The Greek word translated "loiter" carries the thought of being "sluggish, slothful."  While we may not actually loiter in our ministry, all of us need to be alert to any early symptoms of spiritual sluggishness and make appropriate adjustments in our attitude if we perceive such symptoms in ourselves. -Proverbs 22:3.

God's spirit can also help us when we are discourage. For instance, on one occasion the prophet Jeremiah found himself discouraged, and he considered stopping his prophetic work. He even said of Jehovah:  "I am not going to make mention of him, and I shall  speak no more in his name."  Was this an evidence of a serious spiritual deficiency in Jeremiah?  No. In fact, Jeremiah's strong spirituality, his love for Jehovah, and his zeal for the truth empowered him to continue prophesying.  He explains:  "In my heart [the word of Jehovah] proved to be like a burning fire shut up in my bones; and I got tired of holding in, and I was unable to endure it."  (Jeremiah 20:9) It is natural that faithful servants of God experience discouragement from time to time.  But when they pray to Jehovah for help, he will read their hearts and freely impart to them his holy spirit if, like Jeremiah , they have his word in their hearts.  -Luke 11:9-13; Acts 15:8.

Next time: "Do Not Put Out the Fire of the Spirit"

The Watchtower, 2000

EAGERLY DECLARE THE GOOD NEWS

"Be aglow with the spirit. Slave for Jehovah." -Romans 12:11.



A YOUNG man is excited about a new job. On his first day at work, he anxiously awaits his employer's instructions.  He looks forward to his first task and takes it very seriously.  He is eager to do his best.

In a similar way,we as Christians could view ourselves as new workers.  Since our hope is to live forever, it could be said that we have just started working for Jehovah.  Surely our Creator has numerous tasks in mind for us that will keep us busy into eternity.  But the very first commission we received was that of declaring the good news of his Kingdom.  (1 Thessalonians 2:4) How do we feel about this assignment from God! Like the young man, we want to carry it out to the best of  our ability, with zeal, with joy-yes,m with eagerness!

Granted, maintaining such a positive attitude can be a challenge. In addition to our ministry, we have many other responsibilities, some of which may tax us physically and emotionally.  For the most part, we manage to care for these things while giving adequate attention to the ministry.  Still, it  can be an ongoing struggle.  (Mark 8:34) Jesus emphasized  that our success as Christians would require vigorous effort. - Luke 13:24.

With so many things to do, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or weighed down at times.  "Anxieties of life" could choke our zeal and appreciation for theocratic activities. (Luke 21:34, 35; Mark 4::18, 19) Because of our imperfect human nature, we might leave 'the love we had at first.'  (Revelation 2:1-4) Certain aspects of our service to Jehovah could become somewhat routine .  How does the Bible provide the needed encouragement for us to keep our zeal for the ministry alive?

Next time: Like "a Burning Fire" in Our Hearts

The Watchtower, 2000

Finding Genuine Peace Today

Jesus Christ is guiding truth-hungry people along the way that leads  to everlasting life in an earthly paradise. As he guides them to the pure worship of God, they experience peace similar to that described  in the Bible:  "My people must dwell in a peaceful abiding place and in residences of full confidences and in  undisturbed resting places."  (Isaiah 32:18) And that is only a foretaste of the peace that they will enjoy in the future.  We read:  "The meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance  of peace.  The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it." -Psalm 37:11, 29.

So can we have inner peace today?  Yes, moreover, we can be sure that in the near future , God will bless obedient mankind with peace as never before.  Why not, then, ask him in prayer to give you his peace?  If you have problems that rob you of peace, pray in the way that King David prayed:  "Distresses of my heart have multiplied from the stresses upon me o bring me out. See my affliction and my trouble, and pardon all my sins."  (Psalm 25:17, 18)  Be assured that God listens to such prayers.  He stretches out his hand and grants peace to all who seek it in sincerity of heart.  We are lovingly assured:  "Jehovah is near to all those who call upon him in trueness.  The desire of those fearing him he will perform, and their cry for help he will hear, and he will save them." -Psalms 145:18, 19.


Next time: EAGERLY DECLARE THE GOOD NEWS

The Watchtower, 2000

Inner Peace in a Troubled World

The central historical figure in the outworking of God's will is Jesus Christ, and when people study the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses, they learn  a lot about him.  The night he was born, angels sang God's praises: "Glory in the heights above to God, and upon earth peace among men of goodwill."  (Luke 2:14) When Jesus grew up, he was concerned about improving people's lives.  He understood their feelings and showed extraordinary compassion for the afflicted  and the sick. And, in harmony with the words of the angels, he brought a measure of inner peace to the meek. At the end of his ministry, he said to his disciples:  "I leave you peace, I give you my peace. I do not give it to you the way that the world gives it. Do not let your heats be troubled nor let them shrink for fear." -John 14:27.

Jesus was more than a humanitarian. He compared himself to a shepherd, and he likened himself to a shepherd and he likened his meek followers to sheep when he said:  "I have come that they might have life and might have it in abundance. I am the find shepherd; the fine shepherd surrenders his soul in behalf of the sheep."  (John 10:10, 11)  Yes, in contrast with so many leaders today who came first and foremost about themselves, Jesus gave his life for his sheep. 

How can we benefit from what Jesus did?  Many are familiar with the words:  "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."  (John 3:16)  Exercising faith in Jesus requires , first of all, knowledge about him and his Father, Jehovah.  Knowledge of God and Jesus Christ can lead to an intimate relationship with Jehovah God that will help us to attain peace of mind.

Jesus said:  "My sheep listen to my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.  And I give them everlasting life, and they will by no means ever be destroyed, and no one will snatch them out of my hand."  (John 10:27, 28)  What warm, comforting words!  True, Jesus uttered them almost two thousand years ago, but they have as much force now as  they had back then.  Never forget that Jesus Christ is still alive and active, ruling now as the enthroned  King of God's heavenly Kingdom. Just as when he walked on earth those many years ago, he is self concerned about meek ones who long for peace of mind.  Further, he is still the Shepherd of his sheep.  If we follow him, he will help us to gain inner peace, which included a confident expectation of seeing in the future total peace-which will mean the absence of violence war and crime. 

Real benefits come from knowing and believing that Jehovah, through Jesus, will help us.  Remember Vania, who as a young girl was left with heavy responsibilities and thought that God had forgotten her? Now  Vania knows that God had not abandoned her.  She says:  "I learned that god is a real person with endearing qualities.  His love moved him to send his Son to earth to give us life. It is very important to know this."

Marcelo testifies that his relationship with God is real.  This former party goer comments:  "Young people often do not know what to do, and they end up harming themselves.  Some get involved  in drug abuse, as I did. I hope that many more will be blessed, as I was, by learning the truth about God and his Son."

Through a careful study of the Bible, Vania and Marcelo developed a strong faith in God and a confidence in his willingness to help them handle their problems. If we do what they did-study the Bible and apply what it says-we will discover a large measure of inner peace, just as they did. Then the encouragement of the apostle Paul will really apply in our case:  "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all though will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Jesus Christ." -Philippians 4:6, 7.

Next time" Finding Genuine Peace Today

The Watchtower, 2000

Where to Find Inner Peace

When Antonio, Marcos, Gerson, Vanita, and Marcelo studied God's Word, the Bible, they learned things that changed their lives.  For one thing, they learned that the world situation will one day be different.  This is not just a vague hope that everything will turn out all  right in the end.  It is a real, well-founded confidence that god has  a purpose for mankind and that even now we can benefit fromt ath purpose if we do his will.  They applied in their lives what they learned from the Bible, and things improved for them.  They found more happiness and peace than they had thought possible.

Antonio is no longer involved in protests and labor strife.  He knows that changes brought about in that way are only limited and temporary. This former leader has learned about God's Kindom.  It is the Kingdom that millions pray for when they recite the Lord's Prayer (or, the Our Father) and say to God:  "Your kingdom come."  (Matthew  6:10a, New International Version) Antonio learned that God's Kingdom is a real heavenly government taht will bring genuine peace to mankind.

Marcos learned to put into practice the Bible's wise counsel on the subject of marriage. As a result, this former politican  is now happyily reunited with his wife.  He too is looking forward to the time, soon to  come, when G0d's Kingdom wil replace this greedy, selfish world system with a better one.  He has a far deeper understanding of the sentence in the Lord's Prayer that reads:  "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."  (Matthew 6:10b, NIV)  When God's will is sone on earth, humans will experiencde a quality of life never hefore seen. 

What about Gerson? He is no longer a drifter and a thief.  The life of this former street child now has meaning because he uses his energy helping others to find inner peace. As these experiences show, studying the Bible and applying what it says can greatly change a person's life for the Better.

Next time: Inner Peace in a Troubled World

The Watchtower, 2000

Why So Little Peace?

The Bible gives two basic reasons for the lack of peace in the world-be it inner peace or peace between people.  The first is explained at Jeremiah 10:23:  "To earthling man his way does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step."  Man has neither the wisdom, nor the foresight to rule himself without help, and the only help that has real value comes from God.  Humans who do not seek G0d's guidance will never attain lasting peace.  The second reason for the lack of peace is seen in the words of the apostle John:  "The whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one."  (1 John 5:19) Without divine guidance, man's efforts to gain peace will always  be frustrated by the activities  of the unseen, but very real-and very powerful-"wicked one," Satan.

For these two reasons-that most people do not seek God's guidance and taht Satan is very active in the world-the human race as a whole is in a sorry state.  The apostle Paul well described it: "All creation keeps on groaning together and being in  pain together until now."  (Romans 8:22) Who can disagree with that assessment?  In wealthy nations as well as poor ones, family  problems, crime, injustice, personality conflicts, economic uncertainty, tribal and ethnic hatreds, oppression, sickness and much more, rob people of their peace of mind.

Next time: Where to Find Inner Peace

The Watchtower, 2000

Where Can You Find Inner Peace?

There are many differences between our time and that of Thoreau,  mentioned in the preceding article.  One major difference is that today there is no shortage of advice on how to gain peace of mind. Psychologists and writers of self-help books-even newspaper columnists-offer their ideas. Their advice might be of some short-term help; but for long-term solutions, something more profound is needed.  That is what the individuals mentioned inn the preceding article discovered.


Antonio, Marcos, Gerson, Vania, and Marcelo came from different backgrounds and had different problems.  But they had at least three things in common.  First, there was a time when they "had no hope and were without God in the world." (Ephesians 2:12) Second, they longed for peace of mind and third, all of them found the inner peace they wanted after they accepted a Bible study with Jehovah's Witnesses. As they progressed, they came to realize that God is interested in them.  Indeed, as Paul told the Athenians of his day, God  "is not far off from each one of us."  (Acts 17:27) Being sincerely convinced of this is a major factor in gaining inner peace.

Next time: Why So Little Peace?

The Watchtower, 2000

Can You Find Peace?

Back in 1854, American author Henry Thoreau wrote: "The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation."

Evidently, in his day most people did not enjoy inner peace.  That, however, was almost 150 years ago.  Are things different today?  Or do Thoreau's words still apply?  What about you personally?  Are you content, at peace? or are you insecure, uncertain about the future, 'quietly desperate,'  to paraphrase Thoreau's words?


UNHAPPILY, there are many things in the world that rob people of inner peace. Let us mention just a few.  In many countries unemployment and low income bring poverty and with it economic desperation.  In other lands many expend most of their energy chasing wealth and material possessions.  Often, though, the competitive life-style involved brings anxiety, not peace.  Illness, war, crime, injustice and oppression also rob people of peace.


They Sought Inner Peace

Many are unwilling to put up with the world as it is.  Antonio was a labor leader in  a huge factory in Sao Paolo, Brazil.  Hoping to improve living conditions, he took part in protests and demonstrations, but this did not bring him peace of mind.

Some hope, that marriage will bring a measure of tranquility. to their life, but  they may be disappointed.  Marcos was a successful businessman.  He got involved in politics and became mayor of an industrial city.  However, his homelife was a disaster.  When his children left home, he and his wife separated because of irreconcilable differences.

Gerson, a street child in Salvador, Brazil, wanted adventure.  He drifted from city to city, traveling with truck drivers.  Before long he was a drug addict, robbing people to pay for his vice.  Several times he was caught by the police. Despite an aggressive,, violent personality, however, Gerson longed for inner peace.  Could he ever find it?

While Vania was till young, her mother died, and Vania became responsible for the home, including the care of her sick sister.  Vania attended church but felt abandoned by God.  She certainly had no peace of mind.

Then there was Marcelo.  All Marcelo wanted was a good time.  He liked to party  with other young people-dancing, drinking and abusing drugs.  One time he got into a fight and injured another youth. Afterward, he was overcome  with regret for what  he had done and prayed to God for help.  He too wanted peace of mind.

These experiences illustrate some situations that can destroy peace of mind.  Was there any way that the labor leader, the politician, the street child, the overworked daughter, and the party goer could attain the inner peace that they sought?  Does  what happened to them teach us anythings?  The answer to both questions is yes, as we will see in the next article.

Next time: Where Can You Find Inner Peace?

The Watchtower, 2001

How Can We Cultivate Love?

When a Baby is born, its parents quickly fall in love with it. Dealing lovingly with adults is not always so instinctive.  That is likely why the Bible repeatedly tells us to love one another - it is something we have to work on.  (1 Peter 1:22; 4:8; 1 John 3:11)  Jesus knew that our love would be tested when he said that we should forgive our  brother "up to seventy-seven times." (Matthew 18:21, 22)  Paul too  urged us to "continue putting up  with one another."  ( Colossians 3:12, 13)  No wonder that we are told:  "Pursue love!" (Corinthians 14:1)  How can we do this?

First, we can always keep in mind the love we have for Jehovah God.  This love is a  strong incentive to love our neighbor.  Why? Because when we do so, this reflects well on our heavenly Father and brings glory and praise to him.  (John 15:8-10; Philippians 1:9-11)  Second, we can try to see things as Jehovah sees them.  Every time we sin, we sin against Jehovah; yet time and time again he forgives us and keeps on loving us.  (Psalm 86:5; 103:2, 3; 1 John 1:9; 4:18)  If we cultivate Jehovah's view, we will be disposed to love others and forgive  their offenses against us.  (Matthew 6:12) Third, we can deal with others as we want them to deal with us.  (Matthew 7:12) Imperfect as we are, we often need forgiveness.  For example, when we say things that hurt others, we hope that they will remember that everyone sins with the tongue from time to time.  (James 3:2) if we want others to deal lovingly with us, we should deal lovingly with them.

Fourth, we can seek the help of holy spirit because love is part of the fruitage of the spirit.  (Galatians 5:22, 23) Friendships, family feelings, and romantic love are often instinctive.  But we need the help of Jehovah's spirit to cultivate  the love that Jehovah has, the love that is a perfect bond of union.  We can seek the help of holy spirit by reading the inspired Bible.  For example, if we study the life of Jesus, we will  see how he dealt with people, and we can learn to imitate him.  (John 13:34, 35; 5:12) Further, we can ask Jehovah for holy spirit, especially in situations that make it difficult for us to act in a loving way.  (Luke 11:13) Finally, we can pursue love by staying close to the Christian congregation.  Being with loving brothers and sisters helps  us to cultivate love. -Proverbs 13:20.

Last year, there was a peak of 6,035,564 publishers of the good news around the world.  Jehovah's Witnesses spent a total of 1,171, 270, 425 hours seeking out individuals to tell them about that good news.  It was love that made them endure the heat, the rain and the cold as they went about this work.  It was love that moved them to talk to schoolmates and workmates and to approach total strangers on the streets and at other locations;.  Many whom the Witnesses visited were apathetic, a few were opposed.  However, some showed interest, so that 433,454,049  return visits were made and 4,766,631 Bible studies were conducted."
What a demonstration all of this was of the love Jehovah's Witnesses have for their God and for their neighbor! That love will never grow cold.  We are confident that the 2001 service year will see and even greater witness give to mankind.  May Jehovah's blessing continue with his loyal and zealous worshipers as they "let all their efforts take place with love!" -1 Corinthians 16:14.

Next time:Can You Find Inner Peace?

The Watchtower, 2001

Love Your Enemies

Jesus told the man versed in the Law that a Samaritan could be viewed as a neighbor.  In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus went even further when he said: "You heard that it was said, 'You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' However, I say to you:  Continue to love your enemies  and to pray for those persceuting you; that you may prove yourselves sons of yoru Father who is in the heavens."  (Matthew 5:43-45) Even when someone opposes us, we try to "keep conquering the evil with the good."  (Romans 12:19-21)  If possible, we share with him our most precious possession, the truth.

In Ukraine an article in the Kremenchuk Herald newpaper spoke of Jehovah's Witnesses as a dangerous sect.  This was serious because in Europ some speaki of Jehovah's Witnesses in this way in order to persuade people that the activities of the Witnesses should be restricted or banned.  Hence, the editor  was approached and asked to publish a press release correcting the article.  He agreed, but with the release, he printed a statement that the original article was based on fact.  So responsible brothers approached  him again with more information.  Finally, the editot realized that the original  article was wrong, and he published a retraction.  Dealing with him frankly and kindly was the loving way to handle this situation and it led to a good result.

Next time: How Can We Cultivate Love?

The Watchtower, 2001

Like God, We Love the World

Is our love limited to our family and our brotherhood? No, not if we are "imitators of God," Jesus said:  "God love 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." (Ephesians 5:1; John3:16)  Like Jehovah God, we act lovingly toward all-including those not of our faith. (note: we should not act, we should feel and show others love)  (Luke 6:35, 36; Galatians 6:10)  In this regard especially, we preach the good news of the Kingdom and tell others of God's  great act/way of showing love in their behalf.  This can result in salvation to any who listen. -Mark 13:10; 1 Timothy 4:16.

Consider four special pioneer ministers in Nepal.  These were assigned to a city in the southwest of the country, and for the last five years, they have shown their love by patiently witnessing in their city and outlying villages.  To cover their territory, they often travel for many hours on bicycles in temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.  Their love and "endurance in work that is good" produced fine results when a book study group was formed in one of the villages.  (Romans 2:7)  In March 2000, 32 people came to hear the public talk by the visiting overseer.  Nepal had a peak of 430 publishers last year-an increase of 9 percent.  Jehovah is clearly blessing the zeal and love of the brothers in that land.

In Colombia temporary special pioneers went to preach among the Wayuu Indians.  To do this, they had to learn a new language, but their loving interest was rewarded when despite a heavy downpour of rain, 27 attended a public talk.  Loving zeal such as that shown by these pioneers contributed to a 5 percent increase in Colombia and a peak of 107, 613 publishers.  In Denmark an elderly sister wanted to share the good news with others, but she was disabled.  Undaunted, she made contact  with interested people by writing letters. At present, she corresponds with 42 people and conducts 11 Bible studies. She is one of the peak of 14,885 publishers who reported in Denmark last year. 

Next time: Love Your Enemies

The Watchtower, 2001

Love for Our Christian Brothers

Paul said to the Thessalonian Christians:  "Your yourselves are taught by God to love one another."  (1 Thessalonians 4:9) Yes, those who are "taught by Jehovah" love one another.  (Isaiah 54:13)  Their love is expressed in action, as Paul showed when he said:  "Through love slave for one another."  (Galatians 5:13; 1 John 3:18)  This they do, for example, when they visit sick brothers  and sisters, encourage the depressed and support the weak.  (1 Thessalonans 5:14)  Our genuine Christian love contributes to the growth  of our spiritual paradise. 

In the Ancon Congregation-one of the 544 congregations in Ecuador -the brothers showed their love in a practical way.  A financial crisis left them without work or income, so the publishers decided to raise money by selling food to the local fishermen when these came home after a night's fishing. Everyone cooperated, including the children.  They had to start at 1:00 a.m. so as to have the food prepared by 4:00 a.m. when the fishermen returned. The money raised by the brothers was shared among them according to their need.  Such mutual help demonstrated genuine Christian love.

However, our love is not limited to Christians whom we personally know.  The apostle Peter said: "Have love for the whole association of brothers."  (1 Peter 2:17) We love all our brothers and sisters because they are all fellow worshipers of Jehovah God.  Times of crisis may present an opportunity to demonstrate this love.  For example, during the 2000 service year, severe floods ravaged Mozambique, and an ongoing civil war in Angola left many impoverished.  A large number of the 31,725 brothers in Mozambique and the 41,222 in Angola have been affected by these events.  Hence, Witnesses in neighboring South Africa have sent large quantities of provisions to alleviate the distress of their brothers in those lands.  Their willingness  to contribute their "surplus" to their needy brothers demonstrated their love. -2 Corinthians 8, 13-15, 24.

Love is seen, too, when brothers in many countries contribute toward the building of Kingdom Halls and Assembly Halls in less prosperous lands.  An example is in the Solomon Islands.  Despite much unrest, the Solomon Islands saw a 6 percent increase in publishers last year, with a peak of 1,697.  They planned to build an Assembly Hall.  Although many islanders were fleeing the country, volunteers came from Australia to help in the construction. Eventually the volunteers had to leave, but not before they had trained local brothers to complete  the foundation.  The prefabricated steel structure of the hall was shipped from Australia, and the completion of this fine building for worship -at a time when many building sites lie abandoned - will be a fine witness to Jehovah's name and to the love of the brothers. 

Next time: Like God, We Love the World

The Watchtower, 2001

Love Within the Family

Christians love their family members -wives love husbands, husbands love wives, parents love children.  (Ecclesiastes 9:9;Ephesians 5:33; Titus 2:4) True, bonds of natural love exist in most families.  However, reports of broken marriages, spousal abuse, and neglected or abused children show that the family is under stress today, and natural family feelings may not be enough to hold it together.  (2 Timothy 3:1-3)  To make a real success of their family life, Christians need to exercise the kind of love that Jehovah and Jesus have. -Ephesians 5:21-27.

Christian parents view their children as a trust from Jehovah, and they look to him for help in raising them.  (Psalm 127:3-5; Proverbs 22:6) In this way they cultivate Christian love, which helps them to guard their children from the corrupting influences that young people may fall prey to.  As a result, many Christian parents have experienced a joy similar to that of a mother in the Netherlands.  After watching the baptism for her son-one of 575 individuals baptized in the Netherlands last year - she wrote  the following:  "At this moment, my investment of the past 20 years has paid off.  All the time and energy -as well as the hurt, effort and sorrow - are now forgotten."  How happy she is that her son, of his own free will, chose to serve Jehovah.  The peak of 31,089 publishers reporting in the Netherlands last year includes many who learned from their parents to love Jehovah.

Paul called love "a perfect bond of union," and it can preserve a marriage union even through stormy times.  (Colossians 3:14, 18, 19; 1 Peter 3:1-7) When a man in Rurutu, a small island some 450 miles from Tahiti, started studying the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses, his wife was strongly opposed. Eventually, she took the children, left him, and went to live in Tahiti. Still, he showed his love by sending her money regularly and calling by phone to ask if there was anything she or the children needed.  Thus,  he did his best to fulfill his Christian obligations.  (1 Timothy 5:8)  He prayed constantly that his family would be reunite, and eventually his wife returned.  When she did, he treated her with "love, endurance, mildness of temper."  (1 Timothy 6:11)  In 1998, he was baptized and was later overjoyed when his wife agreed to study the Bible.  That study was one of the 1,351 conducted in the territory under the Tahiti branch last year.

In Germany a man opposed his wife's interest in Bible truth and was convinced that Jehovah's Witnesses wanted to deceive her.  Later, however, he wrote to the Witness who first contacted his wife:  "Thank you for introducing my wife to Jehovah's Witnesses.  At first, I was worried because I had heard so many bad things about them.  But now, having attended the meetings with my wife, I realize how wrong I was.  I know that I  am hearing the truth, and it has made our marriage much stronger.:  the 162,932 Witnesses of Jehovah in Germany - and the 1,773 in the islands under the Tahiti branch - include many families united in godly love.

Next time: Love for Our Christian Brothers

The Watchtower, 2001

HOW FAR-REACHING IS YOUR LOVE?

                  "You must love your neighbor as yourself" -Matthew 22:39.


WHEN Jesus was asked which is the greatest commandment, he answered:  "You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind."  Then, he quoted a second commandment similar to the first:  "You must love your neighbor as yourself." (Matthew 22:37, 39)  Yes, love of  neighbor is a mark of a Christians.  Indeed, if we love Jehovah, we must  love our neighbor.  Why?  Because we show our love of God by obeying his Word, and his Word commands us to Love our neighbor.  Hence, if we do not love our brothers and sisters, our love of God cannot be genuine. - Romans 13:8; 1 John 2:5; 4:20, 21.

When Jesus said that we should love our neighbor, he was speaking of more than friendship. And he was referring to a love that is different from that which naturally exist within families or between a man or and a woman.  He was speaking of the kind of love that Jehovah has for his dedicated servants and that they have for him.  (John 17:26; 1 John 4:11)  A Jewish scribe - who, as Jesus discerned was speaking intelligently-agreed with Jesus that love of God should be "with one's whole heart ad with one's whole understanding and with one's whole strength."  (Mark 12:28-34) He was correct.  The love a Christian cultivates both for God and for neighbor involves our emotions and our intellect.  It is felt in the heart and is guided by the mind.

As reported by Luke, when Jesus said that we should love our neighbor, "a certain man versed in the Law" asked: "Who really is my neighbor?"  Jesus answered with a parable.  A man was beaten, robbed, and left half dead  by the wayside.  First a priest and then a Levite walked by.  Both ignored hm.  Finally, a Samaritan came along, saw the wounded man, and acted with great kindness toward him.  Which of the three  was a neighbor to the wounded man? The answer was so obvious.  (Luke 10:25-37) The man versed in the Law may have been shocked to hear Jesus say that  a Samaritan could be a better neighbor than a priest and a Levite.  Clearly, Jesus was helping that man to love his neighbor in a far more reaching way.  Christians too love in such a way.  Consider all those whom their love embraces.

Next time: Love Within the Family

The Watchtower, 2001

Moved to Love Jesus

Jesus is a wonderful example of someone motivated by love.  In his prehuman existence, he loved his Father and he loved mankind.  As the embodiment of wisdom, he said:  "I came  to be beside [Jehovah] as a master worker, and I came to be the one he was specially fond of day by day, I being glad before him all the time, being glad at the productive land of his earth, and the things I was fond of were with the sons of men."  (Proverbs 8:30, 31)  Jesus' love moved him to give up his heavenly dwelling and be born as a helpless infant.  He dealt patiently and kindly with the meek and the lowly and suffered at the hands of Jehovah's enemies.  Finally, he died for all mankind   on a torture stake.   (John 3:35; 14:30, 31; 15:12, 13; Philippians 2:5-11) What a fine example of right motivation!

When those with a right heart condition read the accounts of Jesus' life in the Gospels and meditate on how many blessings his faithful course has brought them, this causes a deep love for him to grow within them. We today are like the ones addressed by Peter when he said: "Though you never saw [Jesus], you love him."  (1 Peter 1:8)  Our love is shown when we exercise faith in him and imitate his life of self-sacrifice.  (1 Corinthians 11:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 1 Peter 2:21-25)  On April 19, 2000, a total of 14,872, 086 were reminded of our reasons for loving Jesus when they attended the annual Memorial of his death.  What a large number that was! And how strengthening to know that so many are interested in salvation through Jesus' sacrifice! Truly, we are built up by the love of Jehovah and Jesus for us and our love for them.

Jesus said that we should love Jehovah with out whole heart, soul, mind and strength.  But he also said that we should love our neighbor as ourselves.  (Mark 12:29-31) Whom does that include? And how does love of neighbor help us to maintain a good balance and a proper motive?  These questions will be discussed in the following article. 

Next time: HOW FAR-REACHING IS YOUR LOVE?

The Watchtower, 2001

How Can We Show Our Love?

Of course, many around the world say that they love God,  but the way they act belies their claim.  How can we know that we really do love Jehovah? We can talk to him in prayer and tell him how we feel. And we can act in a way that demonstrates  our love.  The apostle John said:  "Whoever does observe [God's] word, truthfully in this person the love of God has been make perfect.  By this we have the knowledge that we are in union with him."    (1 John 2:5; 5:3)  Among other things, God's Word tells us to associate together and live clean, moral lives.  We avoid hypocrisy, speak the truth, and keep our thinking clean.  ( 2 Corinthians 7:1; Ephesians 4:15; 1 Timothy 1:5;  Hebrews 10:23-25) We show love by giving material help to those in need.  (1 John 3:17, 18)  And we do not hold back from telling others about Jehovah.  That includes sharing in the worldwide preaching of the good news of the Kingdom.  (Matthew 24:24; Romans 10:10) Obedience to God's Word in such things is evidence that our love for Jehovah is genuine. 

Love for Jehovah helps people to make good decisions.  Last year, such love moved 288,907 individuals to dedicate their lives to him and symbolize that decision by water baptism.  (Matthew 28:19, 20)  Their dedication was meaningful.  It marked a change in their  lives.  For example, Gazmend was one of the top basketball stars in Albania.  For some years, he and his wife studied the Bible and despite obstacles  eventually qualified as Kingdom publishers.  Last year, Gazmend was baptized, one of 366 baptized in Albania in the 2000 year service year.  A newspaper published an article about him and said:  "His life has a purpose, and because of this, he and his family are enjoying the happiest days  of their   life.  For him, it is no longer important to see how much he can get out of life but, instead, how much he can give to other people."

Similarly,  a newly baptized sister working for an oil company in Guam received a tempting offer.  After climbing the corporate ladder for years, she was finally offered the opportunity to be the first female vice president in the company's history.  However, she had now dedicated her life to Jehovah.  So after discussing matters with her husband, the new sister turned down the offer and instead arranged for part-time work so she could progress toward being a full-time minister, a pioneer.  Love for Jehovah moved her to want to serve him as a pioneer rather than to pursue the financial interests of this world.  In fact, worldwide such love moved 805,205  to share in different features of the pioneer ministry during the 2000 service year.  What an expression of love and faith those pioneers made!

Next time: Moved to Love Jesus

The Watchtower, 2001

Whom Should Christians Love?

Jesus gave a general rule as to whom you should love when he quoted two  statements from the Mosaic Law.  He said:  "You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind" and, "You must love your neighbor as yourself." -Matthew 22:37-39.

From Jesus' words, it is clear that first and foremost we should love Jehovah.  However, we are not born with a  fully developed love of Jehovah.  This is something we must cultivate.  When we first heard about him, we were attracted to him by what we heard.  Little by little, we learned how he prepared  the earth for mankind.  (Genesis 2:5-23)  We learned how he has dealt with mankind, not casting us off when sin first invaded the human family, but takings steps to redeem us.  (Genesis 3:1-5, 15)  He dealt kindly with those who were faithful, and eventually he provided his only -begotten Son for the forgiveness of our sins.  (John 3:16, 36)  This increasing knowledge made our appreciation for Jehovah grow.  (Isaiah 25:1)  King David said that he loved Jehovah because of His loving care.  (Psalm 116:1-9)  Today, Jehovah cares for us. The more we learn about him, the deeper out love becomes. -Psalm  31:23; Zephaniah 3:17; Romans 8:28.

Next time: How Can We Show Our Love?

The Watchtower, 2001

Good Motive Helps Us to Endure

The importance of being motivated by love is seen in another way.  To those who pursue godly devotion out of love, the Bible promises rich blessings now and unimaginably wonderful blessings in the future.  (1 Timothy 4:8) A Christian who strongly believes  these promises and who is convinced that Jehovah "becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him" is helped to stand firm in the faith.  (Hebrews 11:6) Most of us long for the fulfillment of God's promises and echo the sentiment of the apostle John:  "Amen! Come, Lord Jesus." (Revelation 22:30) Yes, meditating on the blessings in store if we are faithful strengthens us to endure, just as keeping in mind "the joy that was set before him" helped Jesus to endure. -Hebrews 12:1, 2.

What,though, if our desire to live in the new world is our sole motive for serving Jehovah?  Then we could easily become impatient or dissatisfied when things get difficult or events do not happen as or when we hope.  We could be  in serious danger of drifting away.  (Hebrews 2:1, 3:12) Paul spoke of a former companion named Demas, who forsook him.  Why? Because "he loved the present system of things."  (2 Timothy 4:10) Any who serve for purely selfish reasons are in danger of doing the same.  They could be attracted by the immediate opportunities offered in the world and become unwilling to make sacrifices now in the hope of blessings to come.

While it is proper and natural to have a desire to receive future blessings and hoped- for relief from trials, love builds our appreciation for what should be paramount in our life.  It is Jehovah's will, not ours, that is the important thing.  (Luke 22:41, 42)  Yes, love builds us up.  It makes us content  to wait patiently upon our God, satisfied with whatever blessings he gives and confident that in his due time we will receiver everything that he has promised and more.  (Psalm 145:16; 2 Corinthians 12:8, 9)  In the meantime, love helps us to keep on serving unselfishly because "love . . . does not look for its own interests." -1 Corinthians 13:4, 5.

Next time: Whom Should Christians Love?

The Watchtower, 2001

Love - An Essential Quality

Why is love an essential quality for a Christian?  First, because Jesus commanded his followers to love one another.  He said: "You are my friends if you do what I am commanding you.  These things I command you, that you love one another."  (John 15:14, 17) Second, because  Jehovah is the personification of love, and as his worshipers we should imitate him.  (Ephesians 5:1; 1 John 4:16)  The Bible says that taking in knowledge of Jehovah and Jesus means everlasting life.  How can we say that we know God if we do not try to be like him?  The apostle John reasoned:  "He that does not love has not come to know God, because God is love." -1 John 4:8.

Love is important for a third reason:  It helps us to balance different aspects of our lives and adds good motive to what we do.  For example, it is vital continually to take in knowledge of God's Word.  For a Christian,, such knowledge is like food.  It helps him to grow to maturity and to act in harmony with God's will.  (Psalm 119:105; Matthew 4:3; 2 Timothy 3:15, 16) However, Paul warned:  "Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up."  (1 Corinthians 8:1) No, there is nothing wrong with accurate knowledge.  The problem is with us - we have sinful tendencies.  (Genesis 8:21) If the balancing influence of love is missing, knowledge could make a person puffed up, thinking himself better than others.  That will not happen if he is basically motivated by love.  "Love . . .does not brag, does not get puffed up."  (1 Corinthians 13:4) A Christian who is motivated by love does not become proud, even if he acquires a deep knowledge.  Loves keeps him humble and prevents him from wanting to make a name for himself. -Psalm 138:6; James 4:6.

Paul wrote to the Philippians:  "This is what I continue praying, that your love may abound yet more and more with accurate knowledge and full discernment; that you may make sure of the more important things."  (Philippians 1:9, 10) Christian love will help us to follow this encouragement to make sure of the most important things. As an example, consider Paul's words to Timothy:  "If any man is reaching out for an office of overseer, he is desirous of a fine work."  (1 Timothy 3:1) During the 2000 service year, the number of congregations worldwide increased by  1,502, making a new total of 91,487.  Hence, there is a great need for more elders, and those who reach out for the privilege are to be commended.

However, those reaching out for privileges of oversight will maintain a good balance if they keep in mind the purpose of such a privilege.  Simply having authority or a wider name recognition is not the important thing. Elders who please Jehovah are motivated by love for him and for their brothers.  They are not seeking prominence or influence.  The apostle Peter, after counseling congregation elders to maintain a good attitude, stressed the need  of "lowliness of mind."  He counseled all in the congregation: "Humble yourselves .  . .under the might hand of God." (1 Peter 5:1-6) Anyone who is reaching out does well to consider the example of countless elders around the world who are  hardworking, humble, and therefore a blessing to their congregation. -Hebrews 13:7.

Next time: Good Motive Helps Us to Endure

The Watchtower, 2001

What Is Love

One description of love is 'a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, a warm fondness or liking for another.'  It is a quality that moves people to work for the good of others, sometimes at great personal sacrifice.  Love, as it is described in the Bible, involves both the mind and the heart.  The mind, or intellect, plays a role because a person who loves does this with his eyes open, recognizing that he and other humans that he loves all have weaknesses as well as attractive qualities.  The intellect is further involved since there are those whom a Christian loves -sometimes, perhaps against his natural inclinations - because he knows from his reading of the Bible that God wants him to do so.  (Matthew 5:44; 1 Corinthians 16:14) Still, love basically comes from the heart.  Genuine love as it is revealed  in  the Bible is never merely intellectual.  It entails deep sincerity and full emotional commitment. -1 Peter 1:22.

 People are selfish at heart are rarely capable of a truly loving relationship because a person who loves is prepared to put the interests of another ahead of his own.  (Philippians 2:2-4) Jesus' words "there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving"  are especially true when the giving is an act of love.  (Acts 20:35) Love is a powerful bond. (Colossians 3:14) It often includes friendship, but the bonds of love are stronger than those of friendship.  The romantic relationship between a husband and his wife is sometimes described as love; however, the love that the Bible encourages us to cultivate is more enduring than physical attraction.  When a couple truly love each other, they remain together even if a physical relationship is no longer possible because of the infirmities of old age or because one of them is incapacitated. 

Next time: Love - An Essential Quality

The Watchtower, 2001

BE BUILT UP BY LOVE

"You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind." -Matthew 22:37.



A CHRISTIAN cultivates many things in order to be an effective minister.  The book of Proverbs highlights the value of knowledge, understanding and wisdom.  (Proverbs 2:1-10)  The apostle Paul discussed the need for solid faith and strong hope.  (Romans 1:16, 17; Colossians 1:5; Hebrews  10:39)  Endurance and self-control are also vital.  (Acts 24:25; Hebrews 10:36)  However, there is one element that if lacking detracts from all the other things and could even make them valueless.  That element is love. -1 Corinthians 13:1-3, 13.

Jesus showed the importance of love when he said:  "By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves." (John 13:35) Since love is the identifying mark of a true Christian, we need to ask such questions as, What is love?  Why is it so essential that Jesus said that it, above all else, characterizes his disciples?  How can we cultivate love?  Who should be the object of our love? Let  us consider these questions.

Next time: What Is Love?

The Watchtower, 2001

"The Word of God Is Alive and Exerts Power"

Why did Abraham, Robert, Gabriel and Daniel change so dramatically?  How were they able  to erase deep-rooted hatred and grief from their hearts?

Each of these men read, meditated on, and learned the truth from the Bible, which is "alive and exerts power."  (Hebrews 4:12) The Author of the Bible is the Creator of mankind, who knows how to influence for good the heart of someone who is willing to listen and learn.  "All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness."  Once a reader allows himself to be guided by the Bible, he takes on a new set of values and standards.  He begins to learn how Jehovah views things.  This process brings many benefits, including a healing of the wounds of war. -2 Timothy 3:16.

God's Word explains that no national, racial, or ethnic group is better or worse than another.  "God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him."  The reader who accepts this is helped gradually to overcome feelings of racial or national hatred. - Acts 10:34, 35.

Bible prophecies indicate that God will soon replace the present system of human rule with his Messianic Kingdom.  By means of this government, God "is making wars to cease to the extremity of the earth."  Institutions that promote wars and urge people to fight in them will be removed.  Victims of war will be resurrected  and given a chance to live on a paradise earth.  No one will need to flee in the face of an aggressor or an oppressor. -Psalm 46:9; Daniel 2:44;  Acts 24:15.

Of humans living at that time, the Bible says:  "They will certainly build houses and have occupancy; and they will certainly plant vineyards and eat their fruitage. They will not build and have someone3 else have occupancy . . .They will not toil for nothing, nor will they bring to birth for disturbance."  There is no damage or injury that will not be healed.  Putting faith in such a hope gradually removes grief and sorrow from a person's heart. -Isaiah 65:21-23.

The Bible is indeed potent medicine for the heart.   Its teachings are already healing the wounds of war.  Former countries are being united in one international brotherhood.  This healing process will continue on in God's new system  until there is no more hatred or bitterness, sorrow and grief in the hearts of mankind.  The Creator promises that "the former things will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart." -Isaiah 65:17.

Next time: BE BUILT UP BY LOVE

The Watchtower, 2001

"If You Really Exist, Please Help Me!"

Daniel was raised as  a Catholic and at the age of 18 was called up for military service.  He was sent to fight in the same war as Gabriel but on the opposing side.  Close to the battlefront, Daniel was riding in a tank when it took a direct hit.  His friends were killed, and he was seriously injured and taken prisoner.  He spent months in the hospital and in a camp before being deported to a neutral country.  Alone and destitute, he considered suicide.  Daniel prayed to God:  "If you really exist, please help me!"  The very next day, Jehovah's Witnesses called on him and were able to answer many of his questions.  Finally, he traveled to Europe as a refugee.  Once again, Daniel associated with the Witnesses and studied the Bible. What he learned eased his anxiety and bitterness.

Gabriel and Daniel are now good friends, united in a spiritual brotherhood as baptized Witnesses of Jehovah.  "My love  for Jehovah and knowledge of the Bible have helped me to see things as he does.  Daniel is no longer my enemy.  years ago I would gladly have killed him.  The Bible has taught me the exact opposite - to be willing to die for him," says Gabriel.

"I saw people of different religious and nationalities murdering one another," says Daniel.  "And there were people of  the same religion on opposite sides of the war killing one another.  When I saw this, I felt that God was to blame.  Now I know that Satan is behind all wars.  Gabriel and I are now fellow believers. We will never fight again!"



Next time: "The Word of God Is Alive and Exerts Power"

The Watchtower, 2001

Kill -Then a Martyr's Death

Gabriel, who was raised in a religious family, was taught that his homeland was in the throes of a holy war.  Hence, at 19 years of age, he volunteered for military service and asked to be sent to the battlefront.  For 13 months he was in the fiercest of the battles, at times just a mile from the enemy.  "I remember one occasion in particular," he says.  "Our commander told us that the enemy would attack that night.  we were so keyed up that we fired our mortar all night long."  He regarded people from the neighboring country as his enemies, deserving of death.  "My thought was to kill as many as possible.  Then, like many of my friends, I wanted to die a martyr's death."

However, in time Gabriel became disillusioned.  He fled to the mountains, crept across the frontier into a neutral country, and traveled  to Europe.  He kept asking God why life was so difficult, whether problems  were a punishment from God.  He came into contact with Jehovah's Witnesses, who showed him from the Bible why life is so full of problems today. -Matthew 24:3-14; 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

The more Gabriel learned from the Bible, the more he realized that it contains the truth.  "I learned that we can live forever on a paradise earth.  Strangely enough, that is something I longed from as a child."  The Bible comforted Gabriel and soothed his hitherto troubled heart.  His deepest emotional wounds began to heal.  So by the time he met Daniel, a former enemy, Gabriel felt no hatred any more.  But what made Daniel come to Europe?

"If You Really Exist, Please Help Me!"

The Watchtower, 2001

Enemies Become Friends

Robert and Abraham, former enemies, are now close friends.  They serve as full-time evangelizers in the same congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses.  "During the war, I often wondered how it was possible for people from neighboring countries - many of  whom belonged to the same religion - to hate one another,"  explains Abraham.  "Robert and I belonged to the same church, yet we went to war against each other.  Now we are both Jehovah's Witnesses, and our faith has united us."

"That is the difference," adds Robert.  "We now belong to a faith that makes us part of a genuine brotherhood.  We would never go to war again."  The Bible has had a powerful influence on the hearts of these former enemies.  Hatred and bitterness have gradually given way to trust and friendship.

As the same time that Abraham and Robert were at war, two other young men stood on opposite sides of another conflict between two neighboring countries.  Soon the Bible acted like a  very potent medicine to heal their hearts too.  How?

Next time: Kill -Then Die a Martyr's Death

The Watchtower, 2001

Plunged Into Civil War

Abraham was born in the 1930's in Africa. After the second world war, his country was ruled by a powerful neighbor, but many of Abraham's countrymen wanted independence.  In 1961, Abraham joined a freedom movement that waged guerrilla war against the powerful neighbor.

"They were our enemies.  They planned to kills us, so we set out to kill them," explains Abraham.

Abraham's life was often at risk, so in 1982, after 20 years of armed struggle, he fled to Europe, by now he was in his late 40's, and finding him with time on his hands, he took stock of his life.  What had become of his dreams?  what did the future hold? Abraham met some of Jehovah's Witnesses and started to attend their meetings.  He recalled that in Africa some years before, he had read a tract given to him by a Witness.  The tract described a coming paradise on earth and a heavenly government that would rule over mankind.  Could that really be true? Abraham says:  "From the Bible, I learned that all those years spent fighting were wasted.  The only government that will treat everyone justly is God's Kingdom."

Shortly after Abraham was baptized as  a Witness of Jehovah, a man by the name of Robert fled from Africa to the European city where Abraham was living.  Robert and Abraham had fought in the same war but on opposite sides.  Robert had often wondered about the real purpose in life.   He was a religious man, and having read parts of the Bible, he knew that God's name is Jehovah.  When the Witnesses from Abraham's congregation offered to help Robert understand the Bible better, he readily agreed.

Robert explains:  "From the very beginning I was impressed with the way the Witnesses use the names of Jehovah and Jesus, acknowledging that they are separate persons.  That was in harmony with what I already knew from the Bible.  The Witnesses also dressed neatly and are kind to others, regardless of nationality.  Such things had a deep impact upon me."

Next time: Enemies Become Friends

The Watchtower, 2001