Get Fully Acquainted With God's Standards

Since Jehovah God has determined the standards of good and bad and has revealed them in the Bible, should we not get fully acquainted with them?  The apostle Paul wrote: "All Scripture is inspired of  God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work." -2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

For example, consider the misunderstanding that Kunihito, mentioned in the preceding article, faced when  displaying modesty as his culture viewed  it.  A closer look at Scriptural standards later helped him to take a more balanced approach.  The Bible certainly encourages modesty, and it counsels  against overconfidence and presumptuousness.  (Proverbs 11:2; Micah 6:8) Yet, when outlining the qualifications for "an office of overseer,"  the apostle Paul spoke of "reaching out" for that privilege.  (1 Timothy 3:1) This "reaching out" is to be done not only without being boastful or presumptuous but also without needlessly putting oneself down.

What does the Bible says about moral excellence in the business arena?  Employing questionable methods or cutting corners on government regulations and tax laws is a common practice in today's business world.  Regardless of what others do, however, the Bible standard is that we are "to conduct ourselves honestly in all things."  (Hebrews 13:18) Hence, we cultivate virtue by being honest and fair with employers, employees, customers, and secular governments.  (Deuteronomy 25:13-16; Romans 13:1; Titus 2:9, 10) Honesty certainly promotes trust and goodwill.  And putting agreements in writing often prevents misunderstandings and complexities that may arise because of "unforeseen occurrence." -Ecclesiastes 9:11; James 4: 13, 14.

The matter of dress and grooming is another area in which we need to cultivate virtue. Clothing choices vary according to culture, and pressure may be strong to keep up with the latest styles and trends.  But why should we follow every fad or fashion that comes along? (Be true to yourself, be yourself with a taste of modesty and good taste, not fancy)  The Bible admonishes us to "quit being fashioned after this system of things."  (Romans 12:2) Rather than make up rules, the apostle Paul wrote under inspiration:  "I desire the women to adorn themselves in well-arranged dress, with modesty and soundness of mind, (not like a hooker) not with styles of hair braiding and gold or pearls or very expensive garb, but in the way that befits women professing to reverence God."  (1 Timothy 2:9, 10)  This basic standard applies to men and women alike.  Of course, there is room for delightful variety in style as a result of cultural preference or personal taste.  (without looking like a hooker and a pimp would help)

The Bible also identifies immoral practices that God explicitly condemns.  At 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10, we read the warning:  What! do you not know that unrighteous persons will not inherit God's kingdom? Do not be   misled.  Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, not adulterers, nor men kept for unnatural purposes, nor men who lie with men, nor thieves, nor greedy persons, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit God's kingdom." (  this bears repeating,   this is in the Bible. I have read it. Also in the King James version too, I have read that whole Bible as well) " This Scripture helped Maria, mentioned earlier, to see that according to the standard of moral excellence set out by the Creator, her involvement with Juan was wrong and she must put an end to it if she would have God's approval.  Clearly, to cultivate virtue, we need to get thoroughly familiar with Jehovah's standards.

Next time:Learn With the Heart

The Watchtower, 2001