What Is the Spiritual Paradise?

What Is the Spiritual Paradise

Gustavo was raised in a small city in Brazil.  Since childhood he had been taught that good people go to heaven after death.  He knew nothing about God's purpose that faithful mankind would some day enjoy perfect life in an earthly paradise.  (Revelation 21:3, 4) And there was something else he did not know.  He did not realize that even now, he did not realize that even now,, he could be in a spiritual paradise.

Have you ever heard of that spiritual paradise?   Do you know  what it is and what is required to be part of it?  Anyone who wants to be truly happy needs to know  about that paradise. 

Next time: What Is the Spiritual Paradise?
- Locating the Spiritual Paradise

The Watchtower, 2001

How to Find Real Happiness - Hope-Vital to Happiness

Hope-Vital to Happiness

A recently promoted concept dubbed positive psychology holds that optimism, cultivated by positive thinking and by focusing one's personal strengths, can lead to happiness.  Few would deny that an optimistic view of life and of the future adds to our happiness.  However, such optimism  has to be based on fact, not just on wishful thinking. Besides, no amount of optimism or positive thinking will eliminate war, starvation, disease, pollution, old age, sickness, or death-things that rob so many of their happiness.  Nonetheless, optimism does have it place.

Interestingly, the Bible does not use the word optimism; it uses a more powerful word-hope.  Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary defines "hope" as used in the Bible as "favorable and confident expectation, . . .the happy anticipation of good."  In bible usage, hop is more than optimistic view of a situation. It also refers to the thing upon which one's hope is fixed.  (Ephesians 4:4; 1 Peter 1:3)  The Christian hop, for instance, is that all the undesirable things mentioned in the preceding paragraph will soon be done away with.  (Psalm 37:9-11, 29)  But it embraces more.

Christians look forward to the time when faithful humans will attain to perfect life on a paradise earth.  (Luke 23:42, 43)  Enlarging on that hope, Revelation 21:3, 4 says: "Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. .. .And he will wipe out ever tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.  The former things have passed away."

Anyone who expects to have such a future has every reason to be happy,m even is his present circumstances leave much to be desired.  (James 1:12) So why not investigate the Bible and find out why you can believe it.  Strengthen your hope by spending time each day reading the Bible.  Doing so will enrich you spiritually, help you avoid the things that rob people of their happiness, and build  up your sense of contentment.  Yes, the ultimate secret to real happiness is doing the will of God.  (Ecclesiastes 12:13) A life built on obeying the Bible's precepts is a happy life, for Jesus said:  "Happy are those hearing the word of God and keeping it!" - Luke 11:28.

Next time: What Is The Spiritual Paradise?

The Watchtower, 2001

How to Find Real Happiness-Happiness and Self-Worth

Vital to happiness is a feeling of personal dignity, or self-worth.  Because of human imperfection and the resulting weaknesses, some have a negative view of themselves, and for many, such feelings date from childhood.  It may  be hard to overcome entrenched feelings, but it can be done.  the solution lies in applying God's Word.

The Bible explains how the Creator feels about us.  Is not his view more important than that of any human-even our own?  The very personification of love, God looks at us without prejudice or malice.  He sees us for what we are, as well as for what we can be.  (1 Samuel 16:7; 1 John 4:8)  In fact, he views those wanting to please  him as precious, yes, desirable, whatever their imperfections. -Daniel 9:23; Haggai 2:7.

Of course, God does not ignore our weaknesses and any sins we commit.  He expects  us to try hard to do what is right, and he supports us when we do so.  (Luke 13:24)  Still the Bible says:  "As a father shows mercy to his sons, Jehovah has shown mercy to those fearing him."  It also says: "If errors were what you watch, O Jah, O Jehovah, who could stand? For there is true forgiveness in your, in order that you may be feared." -Psalm 103:13; 130:3, 4.

So learn to see yourself through God's eyes.  Knowing that he views those who love him as desirable and that he has confidence in them-even though they may view themselves as unworthy-can do much to enhance a person's happiness. -1 John 3:19, 20.

Next time: How to Find Real Happiness-Hope-Vital to Happiness

The Watchtower, 2001

How to Find Real Happiness -Keep Your Life Simple

Keep Your Life Simple

First, look at Jesus' counsel on the matter of wealth.  After counseling against making the pursuit of wealth the main thing in life, he made a striking expression. He said: "If, then, your eye is simple, your whole body will be bright."  (Matthew 6:19-22)  Essentially, he said that if we avidly pursue wealth, power, or any of the other goals people set for themselves, we will lose out on more important things.  After all, as Jesus said on another occasion, "even when a person has an abundance his life does not result from the things he possesses."  (Luke 12:125)  If we put first the things that are really important, such as our relationship with God, family concerns, and other related matters, then our "eye" will be "simple," uncluttered. 

Notice, Jesus was not advocating asceticism or extreme self-denial.  After all, Jesus himself was not an ascetic.  (Matthew 11:19; John 2:1-11)  Rather, he taught that those who view life as little more than an opportunity to amass wealth essentially miss out on life. 

Commenting on some who became very wealthy early in life, a psychotherapist in San Francisco, U.S.A., said that for them money is "the root of stress and confusion."  These people, he added,  "buy two or three houses, a car, spend money on stuff. And when that hasn't done it for them [that is, made them happy], they become depressed, empty and uncertain  about what to do with their lives."  In contrast, those who heed Jesus' advice to lead a simpler life materially and to leave room for material things are far more likely to find real happiness.

Tom, a builder living in Hawaii, volunteered to help build places of worship on Pacific islands where people have little materially.  Tom noticed something about these humble people.  He said;  "My Christian brothers and sisters in these islands were truly happy. They helped me see more clearly that money and possessions are not the secret to happiness."  He also observed the volunteers who worked with him in the islands and noticed how contented they were.  "They could have made a lot of money," said Tom.  "But they chose to keep spiritual things in first place and maintain  a simple life-style."  Moved by these examples, Tom simplified his own life so that he could devote more time to his family and to spiritual pursuits-a move he has never regretted.

Next time: How to Find Real Happiness-Happiness and Self-Worth

The Watchtower, 2001

How to Find Real Happiness - Think of Your Spiritual Needs

One of the beatitudes is:  "Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need."   (Matthew 5:3) Why did Jesus say this?  Because, unlike animals, we have spiritual needs.  Created in God's image, we can to a degree cultivate divine attributes, such as love, justice, mercy, and wisdom.  (Genesis 1:27; Micah 6:8; 1 John 4:8) Our spiritual needs include the need to have meaning in our life.

How can we satisfy such spiritual needs?  Not through transcendental meditation or mere introspection.  Rather, Jesus said:  "Man must live, not on bread alone but on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah's mouth."  (Matthew 4:4) Notice, Jesus said that God is the source of "every utterance3" vital to our life.  Some questions only God can help us to answer.  That insight is especially timely today, given the proliferation of theories about life's purpose and the way to happiness.  Bookstores, devote entire sections to works that promise readers health,wealth and happiness. Internet sites dealing specifically with happiness have been set up. 

Nevertheless, human thinking in these areas is often misguided.  It tends to play to selfish desires or to the ego.  It is based on limited knowledge and experience, and quite often it rests on false premises.  For instance, a growing trend among writers of self help books is to base their ideas on the theory of "evolutionary psychology," which assumes that human emotions are rooted in our supposed animal ancestry. The truth is, any effort to find happiness that is based on a theory that ignores the role of our Creator cannot be valid and will ultimately lead to disappointment.  An ancient prophet said: "The wise  ones have become ashamed. . . . Look!  They have rejected the very word of Jehovah, and what wisdom do they have?"-Jeremiah 8:9.

Jehovah God knows our makeup and what will make us truly happy.  He knows why he put man on the earth and what the future holds, and he shares that information with us in the Bible.  What he reveals in that inspired book strikes a responsive chord in rightly disposed individuals  and inspires happiness.  (Luke 10:21; John  8:32) This was the case with two of Jesus' disciples.  They were disconsolate following his death.  But after learning from the mouth of the resurrected Jesus himself about his role in God's purpose for mankind's salvation, they said:  "Were not our heart burning as he was speaking to us on the road as he was fully opening up the Scriptures to us?" -Luke 24:32.

Such joy intensifies when we allow Bible truth to guide  our life.  In this regard happiness can be likened  to a rainbow.  It appears  when conditions are favorable, but it becomes more brilliant-even becoming a double rainbow-when conditions are perfect.  Let  us now look at a few examples of how the application of Bible teachings can make for greater happiness.

Next time: How to Find Real Happiness - Keep Your Life Simple

The Watchtower, 2001

How to Find Real Happiness

A BUDDHIST religious leader, the Dalai Lama, said: "I believe that the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness."  He then explained that he believe that happiness can be achieved by training, or disciplining, the mind and the heart.   "A mind," he said,  "is all the basic equipment we need to achieve complete happiness."  Belief in God is unnecessary, he maintains. (he is so very, very wrong)

In contrast, consider Jesus, who had strong faith in God and whose teachings have affected hundreds of millions of people over the centuries.  Jesus was interested in human  happiness.  He began his well-known Sermon on the Mount with nine beatitudes - nine expressions that begin:  "Happy are l. . ."  (Matthew 5:1-12) As one of his disciples later exhorted, we should "continue considering" things that are  'true, of serious concern, righteous, chaste, lovable, well spoken of, virtuous, and praiseworthy.' -Philippians 4:8.

Jesus knew that the true happiness involves relationships with others.  We humans are gregarious by nature, so we cannot be truly happy if we isolate ourselves or if we are constantly   in conflict with those around us. We can be happy only if we feel loved and if we love others.  Fundamental to such love, Jesus taught, is our relationship with God.  Here especially, Jesus' teaching departs from that of the Dalai Lama, for Jesus taught that humans cannot be truly happy independent of God.  Why is that so? -Matthew 4:4; 22:37-39.

Next time: How to Find Happiness - Think of Your Spiritual Needs

The Watchtower, 2001

Can You Be Truly Happy

GEORGE greeted everybody with a  smile.  To him, life was a precious gift to be enjoyed.  His happiness and optimism were his trademark-even more so as he started to suffer the pangs of old age.  Till the day he died, George was known as a happy person.  Are you happy like George?  Do you view each new day as a gift to be enjoyed?  Or does the prospect of a new day make you apathetic or even apprehensive?  is something robbing you of happiness?

Happiness has been defined as a state of well-being that is relatively permanent.  it is characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to a deep and intense joy and by a natural desire for the state to continue.  Does happiness like that really exist?

Today, society promotes the view that people would be happy if only they were rich enough.  Millions keep us a hectic pace in their frantic efforts to get rich.  In doing so, many sacrifice personal relationships and other important things in life.  Like ants on an anthill, they are constantly rushing about, and they have little time for reflection or for one another.  Understandably, "the number of people diagnosed as depressed keeps going up," says a report in the Los Angeles Times,  "and the age of onset [of depression] keeps going down. . . . Antidepressants are on the drug company best-seller list." Millions take illicit drugs or try to drown their problems with alcohol.  Some go on spending sprees when they feel depressed.  In one survey,m "women emerged as the most prone to indulge in retail therapy," says the British newspaper.  The Guardian.  "They were three times as likely as men to shop when depressed."  However. true happiness is not found in  a store, a bottle, a pill, a syringe, or a  bank account.  Happiness is not for sale, it is free.  Where can you find such a precious gift? We will discuss  that in the following article.

Next time: How to Find Real Happiness

The Watchtower, 2001

FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS -Fear of God Versus Fear of Man

Fear of God Versus Fear of Man

While fear of God can impel us to do what is right, fear of man can undermine our faith.  For this reason, when encouraging the apostles to be zealous preachers of the good news, Jesus told them:  "Do not become fearful of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul, but rather be in fear of him that can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna."  (Matthew 10:28) Fear if men is shortsighted,, Jesus explained, for men cannot destroy our future life prospects.  Furthermore, we fear God because we recognize his awesome power, in comparison with which the might of all the nations is insignificant.  (Isaiah 40:15)  Like Abraham we have absolute confidence in Jehovah's power to resurrect His faithful servants.  (Revelation 2:10) Thus, we say with confidence:   "If God is for us, who will be against us?" -Romans 8:31.

Whether our opposer is a family member or a school-yard bully, we will find that "in the fear of Jehovah there is a strong confidence."  (Proverbs 14:26)  We can pray to God for strength, knowing that he will hear us.  (Psalm 145:19)  Jehovah never forgets those who fear him.  Through his prophet Malachi, he reassures us:  "At that time those in fear of Jehovah spoke with one another, each one with his companion, and Jehovah kept paying attention and listening. And a book of remembrance began to be written up before him for those in fear of Jehovah and for those thinking upon his name." -Malachi 3:16.

The time is near when everyone on earth will worship Jehovah and fear of man will disappear.  (Isaiah 11:9) Fear of hunger, disease, crime, and war will also be gone.  But the fear of God will remain throughout eternity as his faithful servants  in heaven and on earth continue  to show him due respect, obedience, and honor.  (Revelation 15:4)  Meanwhile, may all of us take to heart the inspired counsel of Solomon:  "Let your heart not be envious of sinners, but be in the fear of Jehovah all day long.  For in that case there will exist a future, and your own hope will not be cut off." -Proverbs 23:17, 18.

Next time: Can You Be Truly Happy?

The Watchtower, 2001

FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS -Three Who Feared God

Three Who Feared God

There is one man in the Bible whom Jehovah personally described as his friend-the patriarch Abraham.  (Isaiah 41:8) Abraham's godly fear was put to the test when God asked hm to offer  as a sacrifice his only son, Isaac, through whom God would fulfill his promise that Abraham's offspring would become a great nation.   (Genesis 12:2, 3; 17:19) Would  "Jehovah's friend" pass this painful test?  (James 2:23) At the very moment when Abraham raised his knife to kill Isaac, Jehovah's angel said:  "Do not put your hand against the boy and do not do anything at all to him, for now I do know  that you are God-fearing in that you have not withheld your son, your only one, from me." -Genesis 22:10-12.

Although Abraham had previously proved himself to be one who feared Jehovah, on that occasion he manifested his godly fear in an outstanding way.  His willingness to sacrifice Isaac was far more than a show of respectful obedience.  Abraham was motivated by an absolute trust that his heavenly Father would fulfill His promise by resurrecting Isaac if necessary. As Paul wrote, Abraham was "fully convinced that what [God] had promised he was also able to do."  (Romans 4:16-21) Are we prepared to do God's will even when it requires major sacrifices?  Do we have total confidence that such obedience will bring long-term benefits, knowing that Jehovah is "the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him?" (Hebrews 11:6)  That is true fear of God. -Psalm 115:11.

Let us examine another example of godly fear in action-that of Joseph.  As a slave in Potiphar's household,m Joseph found himself faced with pressure to commit adultery.  There apparently was no way he could avoid contact with his master's wife, who persistently made immoral advances toward him.  Finally, when she "grabbed hold of him,"  he "took to flight and went on outside."   What impelled him to turn aside from bad immediately? undoubtedly, the principal factor was fear of God, the desire to avoid committing "this great badness and actually sin against God."  (Genesis 39:7-12)  Joseph could rightly describe himself as a man who 'feard the true God.' -Genesis 42:18. 

Years later Joseph came fact-to-face with his brothers, who had heartlessly sold hm into slavery.  He could easily have used their desperate need for food as an opportunity to avenge the wrong they had done to him.  But treating people tyrannically does not reflect the fear of God.  (Leviticus 25:43)  Thus, when Joseph saw ample proof of his brothers' change of heart, he mercifully forgave them.  Like Joseph, our godly fear will move us to conquer evil with good, as well as hold  us back from falling into temptation. -Genesis 45:1-11; Psalm 130:3, 4; Romans 12:17-21.

Job was another outstanding example of one who feared God.  Jehovah said to the Devil:  "Have you set your heart upon my servant Job, that there is no one like him in the earth, a man blameless and upright, fearing God and turning aside from bad?"  (Job 1:8) For many years, Job's blameless conduct had gladdened the heart of his heavenly Father.  Job feared God because he knew that it was the right thing to do and the best way to live.  "Look! The fear of Jehovah-that is wisdom," Job exclaimed,  "and to turn away from bad is understanding."  (Job 28:28)  As a married man, Job was not improperly attentive to young women, nor did he harbor adulterous schemes in his heart.  Although a rich man, he refused to put his trust in riches, and he shunned every form of idolatry. -Job 31:1, 9-11, 24-28.

Fear of God, however, means doing what is good as well as turning aside from what is bad.  Thus, job took a kindly interest in the blind, the lame and the poor.  (Leviticus 19:14; Job 29:15, 16)  Job understood that "anyone who withholds loving-kindness from his own fellow, he will also leave off even the fear of the Almighty." (Job 6:14)  Withholding loving-kindness could include withholding forgiveness, or harboring a grudge. At God's direction, Job prayed in behalf of his three companions, who had caused him so much grief.  (Job 42_7-10) Could we show a similar forgiving spirit toward a fellow believer who may have hurt us in some way? A sincere prayer in behalf of the one who has offended us can do much to help us overcome resentment.  The blessings Job enjoyed for his godly fear give us a foregleam of 'the abundant goodness Jehovah has treasured up for those fearing him.' -Psalm 31:19; James 5:11.

Next time: FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS Fear of God Versus Fear of Man

The Watchtower, 2001

Conclusion of FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS -Turn Away From Bad

Turn Away From Bad

Apart from what happened to the nation of Israel as a whole, the Bible contains real-life experiences of individuals who were overtaken by jealously, immorality, greed, or pride.  Some of these men had served Jehovah for many years, but at one crucial moment in their life, their fear of God was  not sufficiently strong, and they reaped a bitter harvest.  Meditating on such Scriptural examples can strengthen our resolve not to make similar mistakes.  How sad it would be if we waited until we had a personal tragedy before taking God's advice to heart!  Contrary to what is commonly believed, experience -especially from self-indulgence-is not the best teacher. -Psalm b19:7.

Another powerful reason for cultivating godly fear is our desire to safeguard our relationship with God.  We fear to displease Jehovah because we treasure  his friendship.  Whom does God consider to be a friend, someone he would invite into his figurative tent? Only the one "who is walking faultlessly and practicing righteousness."  (Psalm 15:1, 2) if we value this privileged relationship with out Creator, we will take care to walk faultlessly in his eyes.

Sadly, some Israelites in Malachi's day took friendship with God for granted.  Instead of fearing and honoring Jehovah, they offered sick and lame animals on his altar.  Their lack of godly fear was also reflected  in their attitude toward marriage.  In order to marry younger women, they divorced the wives of their youth for trivial reasons.  Malachi told them that Jehovah hated  "a divorcing" and that their treacherous spirit had alienated them from their God.  How could God look with favor on their sacrifices when the altar was figuratively covered with tears-the bitter tears shed by their abandoned wives?  Such flagrant disrespect for his standards moved Jehovah to ask:  "Where is the fear of me?" -Malachi 1:6-8; 2:13-16.

Today, Jehovah likewise sees the heartbreak of many innocent mates and children who have been devastated by selfish and immoral husbands and fathers or even wives and mothers.  Surely it grieves him.  A friend of God will see matters the way God sees them and will work hard to strengthen his marriage, reject worldly thinking that belittles the importance of the marriage bond, and "flee from fornication. " -1 Corinthians 6:18.

In marriage as well as in other areas of our life, hatred for all that is bad in Jehovah's eyes, along with a deep; appreciation for his friendship, will bring Jehovah's favor and approval.  The apostle Peter firmly stated:  "For a certainty I perceive that God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him."  (Acts 10:34. 35) We  have Scriptural examples that show how godly fear moved individuals to do what was right in various trying circumstances.

Next time: FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS - Three Who Feared God

The Watchtower, 2001

FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS -Turn Away From Bad

Turn Away From Bad

The Bible explains that  "the fear of Jehovah means the hating of bad."  (Proverbs 8:13)  A Bible lexicon describes this hatred as "an emotional attitude toward persons and things which are opposed, detested, despised and with which one wishes to have not contact or relationship."  So godly fear includes an inner aversion or disgust toward all that is bad in Jehovah's eyes.  (Psalm 97:10)  It impels us to turn aside from bad, just as we would back away from the edge of a cliff when our instinctive fear sounds the alarm.  "In the fear of Jehovah one turns away from bad," says the Bible. -Proverbs 126:6.

We can reinforce this wholesome fear and hatred for what is bad by considering the harmful consequences that sin inevitably brings.  The Bible assures us that we will reap what we sow -whether we sow according to the flesh or according to the spirit.  (Galatians 6:7, 8) For this reason Jehovah graphically described the inevitable results of disregarding his true worship.  Without divine protection, the small, vulnerable nation of Israel would be at the mercy of cruel and powerful neighbors.  (Deuteronomy 28:15, 45-48)  The tragic outcome of Israel's disobedience was recorded in detail in the Bible "for a warning" so that we can learn the lesson and cultivate godly fear. -1 Corinthians 10:11.

Next time: Conclusion of FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS - Turn Away From Bad

The Watchtower, 2001

FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS

"Fear the true God and keep his commandments. For this is the whole obligation of man.' -ECCLESIASTES  12:13.


"JUST as courage imperils life, fear protects it," observed Leonardo da Vinci. Bravado, or foolhardy courage, blinds a man to danger, whereas fear reminds him to be careful.  For example, if we near the edge of a cliff and see how far down we could fall, most of us instinctively move back.  Similarly, a wholesome fear not only promotes a good relationship with God, as we learned in the preceding article, but also help safeguard us from injury.

Fear of may modern-day hazards, however, has to be learned.  Since young children are unaware  of the dangers of electricity or city traffic, they can easily have a serious accident.  Wise parents try to instill a wholesome fear in their offspring, warning them again and again of surrounding dangers.  Parents know that this fear may well save their children's life.

Jehovah has a similar concern for our well-being.  As a loving Father, he teaches us through his Word and his organization, to benefit ourselves.  (Isaiah 48:17)  Part of this divine teaching program involves warning us "again and again" about spiritual pitfalls so that we can develop a healthy fear of such danger.  (2 Chronicles 36:15;  2 Peter 3:1)) Throughout history many spiritual disasters could have been avoided and much suffering averted 'if only people had developed   this heart of theirs to fear God and keep his commandments.'  (Deuteronomy 5:29)  In these "critical times hard to deal with,"
 how can we develop our heart to fear God and keep out of spiritual danger? -2 Timothy 3:1.

Next time: FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS -Turn Away From Bad

The Watchtower, 2001

DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - Happy Is Everyone Fearing Jehovah

From the foregoing, we can see that fear of God is a wholesome attitude that all of us should cultivate, since it is a fundamental part of our worship of Jehovah.  It leads us to trust him implicitly, to walk in his ways, and to cling to him.  As was true of Jesus Christ, fear of God can also move us to fulfill our dedication vow now and for all eternity.

Godly fear is never morbid, or unduly restrictive.  "Happy is everyone fearing Jehovah, who is walking in his ways,"  the Bible assures us.  (Psalm 128:1) Jehovah encourages us to fear him because he knows that this quality will protect us.  We note his loving concern in his words to Moses:  "If only they [the Israelites]  would develop this heart of theirs to fear me and to keep all my commandments always, in order that it might go well with them and their sons to time indefinite!" -Deuteronomy 5:29.

Similarly, if we develop our heart to fear God, it will go well with us.  In what ways?  First of all, such an attitude will please God and will draw us close to him.  David knew from personal experience that "the desire of those fearing him he will perform, and their cry for help he will hear, and he will save them."  (Psalm 145:19) Second, godly fear will benefit us because it will affect our attitude toward what is bad.  (Proverbs 3:7) The following article will examine how this fear  safeguards us from spiritual danger, and it will review some Scriptural examples of men who feared God and turned aside from bad. 

Next time: FEAR JEHOVAH AND KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS

The Watchtower, 2001

DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - Learning to Fear Jehovah

Unlike the instinctive awe we feel when confronted by the power and majesty of nature, fear of God does not c0me  automatically.  That is why the Greater David, Jesus Christ, prophetically extends to us the invitation:  "Come, you sons, listen to me, the fear of Jehovah is what I shall teach you." (Psalm 34:11) How can we learn from Jesus to fear Jehovah?

Jesus teaches us to fear Jehovah by helping us to understand the wonderful personality of our heavenly Father.  (John 1:18) Jesus' own example reveals hos God thinks and how he deals with others, for Jesus reflects his Father's personality perfectly.  (John 14:9, 10)  Furthermore, through Jesus' sacrifice, we gain access to Jehovah when we pray fro forgiveness of our sins.  This outstanding expression of God's mercy is in itself a powerful reason to fear him.  The psalmist wrote:  "There is the true forgiveness with you, in order that you may be feared." -Psalm 130:4.

The book of Proverbs outlines a series of steps that enable us to develop godly fear.  "My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure up  my own commandments with yourself, so as to pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment itself, . . . in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God."  (Proverbs 2:1-5) To fear God, therefore, we must study his Word, earnestly endeavor to understand its instruction, and then pay careful attention to its counsel.

Every king of ancient Israel was instructed to make a copy of the Law and 'read it in all the days of his life, in order that he might learn to fear Jehovah his God so as to keep all the words of the law.'  (Deuteronomy 17:18, 19) Bible reading and study are just as vital for us if we would learn to fear Jehovah. As we apply Bible principles in our life, we gradually acquire divine wisdom and knowledge.  We come to  "understand the fear of Jehovah" because we see the good results it produces in our life, and we treasure our relationship with God.  Furthermore, by congregating regularly with fellow believers, bot young and old can listen to divine teaching, learn to fear God, and walk in his ways. -Deuteronomy  31:12.  

Next time: DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - Happy Is Everyone Fearing Jehovah

The Watchtower, 2001

DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - To Love God Is To Fear Him

To Love God Is To Fear Him

From a Scriptural standpoint, fearing God does not in any way rule out loving him.  On the contrary, the Israelites were instructed to  "fear Jehovah . . .so as to walk in all his ways and to love him." (Deuteronomy 10:12)  Thus fear of God and love of God are closely connected.  Fear of God moves us to walk in his ways, and this in turn gives proof of our love for him.  (1 John 5:3)  This is logical because when we love someone, we rightly fear to hurt him.  The Israelites  hurt Jehovah by their rebellious course in the wilderness.  Surely we would not want to do anything to bring such sorrow to our heavenly Father.  (Psalm 78:40, 41)  On the other hand, since "Jehovah is finding pleasuring in those fearing him," our obedience and faithfulness  make his heart rejoice.  (Psalm 147:11; Proverbs 27:11)  Love of God moves us to please him, and fear of God holds us beck from hurting him.  They are complementary, not contradictory, qualities.

The life course of Jesus Christ clearly illustrates how we can love and fear God at the same time.  Of Jesus the prophet Isaiah wrote:  "Upon him the spirit of Jehovah must settle down, the spirit of wisdom  and of understanding, the spirit of counsel and of mightiness, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of Jehovah; and there will be enjoyment by him in the fear of Jehovah." (Isaiah  11:2, 3) According to this prophecy God's spirit moved Jesus to fear his heavenly Father.  Furthermore, we not that this fear, far from being restrictive, was a source of satisfaction.  Jesus found delight in doing God's will and in pleasing him, even in the most difficult circumstances.  When faced with impending execution on the torture stake, he told Jehovah:  "Not as I will, but as you will."  (Matthew 26:39) Because of his godly fear, Jehovah listened favorably to his Son's supplications, strengthened him, and saved him out of  death. -Hebrews 5:7.

Next time: DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH -Learning to Fear Jehovah

The Watchtower, 2001

DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - "To Him You Should Cling"

"To Him You Should Cling

Reverential fear of God and acute awareness of his awesome power are precursors of trust and confidence in Jehovah.  Just as a young child feels protected when his father is near, so we feel secure and confident under Jehovah's guiding hand.  Note how the Israelites reacted after Jehovah led them out of Egypt:  "Israel also got to see the great hand that Jehovah put in action against the Egyptians; and the people began to fear Jehovah and to put faith in Jehovah."  (Exodus 14:31) Elisha's experience also testifies to the fact that  "the angel of Jehovah is camping all around those fearing him and he rescues them."  (Psalm 34:7; 2 Kings 6:15-17)  the modern-day history of Jehovah's people and likely our own personal experience confirm that God does exercise his power in behalf of those who serve him.  (2 Chronicles 16:9) Thus we come to appreciate that "in the fear of Jehovah there is strong confidence." -Proverbs 14:16.

Wholesome fear of God not only fosters trust and confidence in him but also motivate us to walk in his ways.  When Solomon inaugurated the temple, the prayed to Jehovah:  "May [Israel] fear you by walking  in your ways all the days that they are alive upon the surface of the ground that you gave to our forefathers."  (2 Chronicles 6:31) Earlier, Moses urged  the Israelites:  'After Jehovah your God you should walk, and him you should fear, and his commandments you should keep and to his voice you should listen, and to him you should cling."  (Deuteronomy 13:4) As these verses clearly show, the desire to walk in Jehovah's ways and to "cling" to him comes from trust and confidence in God.  Yes, godly fear leads us to obey Jehovah, to serve him, and to cling to him, just as a young child may literally cling to his father in whom he has implicit trust and confidence. -Psalm 63:8; Isaiah 41:13.

Next time: DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH -To Love God Is To Fear Him

The Watchtower, 2001

DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - Awe, Reverence, and Fear

Awe, Reverence and Fear

Fear of God is a feeling Christians should have toward their Maker.  One definition of this fear is "an awe and a profound reverence for the Creator and a wholesome dread of displeasing him."  Thus, fear of God influences two important aspects of our lives: our attitude toward God and our attitude toward conduct  that he hates.  Obviously, both aspects are crucial and deserve careful consideration.  As Vine's Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words point out, for Christians this reverential fear is 'a controlling motive of life, in matters both spiritual and moral.

How can we develop feelings of awe and reverence for our Creator?  We stand in awe when we see a beautiful landscape, and impressive waterfall, or a spectacular sunset.  This feeling is heightened when we discern, with eyes of faith, the hand of God behind such creative works.  Furthermore, like King David, we perceive our own insignificance in comparison with Jehovah's awesome creation.

When I see your heavens, the works of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have prepared, what is mortal man that you keep him in mind?  (Psalm 8:3, 4) This profound awe leads to reverence, which moves us to thank and praise Jehovah for all that he does for us.  David also wrote:  "I shall laud you because in a fear-inspiring way I am wonderfully  made. Your works are wonderful, as my soul is very well aware."-Psalm 139:14.

Feelings of awe and reverence engender a wholesome and respectful fear of God's power as Creator and of his authority as the rightful Ruler of the universe. In a vision that the apostle John saw, "those who come off victorious from the wild beast and from its image" -the anointed followers of Christ in their heavenly position-proclaim:  "Great and wonderful are your works, Jehovah God, the Almighty.  Righteous and true are your ways, King of eternity.  Who will not really fear you, Jehovah, and glorify your name?"  (Revelation 15:2-4) Fear of God, derived from a profound reverence for his majesty, leads these co-rulers with Christ in the heavenly Kingdom to honor God as the ultimate authority.  When we consider all that Jehovah has accomplished and the righteous way in which he governs the universe, do we not have ample reason to fear him? -Psalm 2:11; Jeremiah 10:7.

In addition to awe and reverence, however, fear of God must include a wholesome dread of displeasing him or being disobedient to hm.  Why?  Because while Jehovah is "slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness, '  we must remember that "by no means will he give exemption from punishment."  (Exodus 34:6, 7)  Though loving and merciful, Jehovah does not tolerate unrighteousness and willful wrongdoing.  (Psalm 5:4, 5; Habakkuk 1:13)  Those who deliberately  and unrepentantly practice what is wicked in Jehovah's eyes and who set themselves in opposition to him cannot do so with impunity.  As the apostle Paul said, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God."  Having a wholesome dread of falling into such a situation is ultimately a protection for us. -Hebrews 1-0:31.

Next time: DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - "To Him You Should Cling"

The Watchtower, 2001

DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH

"If only they would develop this heart of theirs to fear me and to keep all my commandments always."-DEUTERONOMY 5:29.


FEAR has haunted mankind for centuries.  Fear of hunger, disease, crime, or war keeps millions of people in constant anxiety.  For this reason the preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights expresses the desire to bring about a world where all humans will enjoy freedom from fear.  Happily, God himself assures us that such a world will come-although not by human efforts.  Through his prophet Micah, Jehovah promises us that in his new world of righteousness,  'no one will make his people tremble.' -Micah 4:4.

On the other hand, fear can also  be a possible force in Scriptures, God's servants are repeatedly urged to fear Jehovah.  Moses told the Israelites:  "Jehovah your God you should fear, and him you should serve."  (Deuteronomy 6:13)  Centuries later Solomon wrote:  "Fear the true God and keep his commandments.  For this is the whole obligation of man."  (Ecclesiastes  12:13)  Through our witnessing work, carried out under angelic supervision, we likewise urge all people to "fear God and give him glory."  (Revelation 14:6, 7)  In addition to fearing Jehovah, Christians must love him with their whole heart.  (Matthew  22:37, 38) How can we love God and at the same time fear him?  Why is it necessary to fear a loving God?  What benefits do we derive from cultivating godly fear?  To answer these questions, we must first understand what the fear of God means and how this type of fear forms a fundamental part of our relationship  with Jehovah.

Next time: DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH - Awe, Reverence, and Fear

The Watchtower, 2001

You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Safeguard the Heart

Safeguard the Heart

The Bible principle that "whatever a man is sowing, this he will also reap" applies to the health of our figurative heart as well.  (Galatians 6:7) Often, what appears to be a sudden spiritual disaster turns out to have been the result of a long secret history of indulgence in such spiritually damaging pursuits  as viewing pornography, being excessively concerned with material things, or striving for prominence or power. 

To protect the heart, therefore, it is essential to watch one's spiritual diet.  Nourish the mind and heart by feeding on the Word of God. Shun the mental junk food that is so readily available and so appealing to the flesh but that only results in making the figurative heart insensitive.  The psalmist cautions with a fitting-and medically sound-analogy.  "Their heart has become unfeeling just like fat." -Psalm 119:70

If there are long-standing secret faults, try hard to eradicate them lest they clog up your  figurative arteries.  If the world begins to look attractive and seems to be offering much to the way of pleasure and enjoyment, meditate on the wise counsel offered by the apostle Paul.  He wrote:  "This I say, brothers, the time is left reduced.  Henceforth let those . . .making use of the world [be]as those not using it to the full; for the scene of this world is changing."  (1 Corinthians 7:29-31) And, if material riches should start to beckon, take to heart Job's words:   "If I have put gold as my confidence, or to gold I have said, 'You are my trust!' that too would be an error for attention by the justices. for I should have denied the true God above." -Job 31:24, 28; Psalm 62:10; 1 Timothy 6:9, 10.

Pointing to the seriousness of habitually ignoring Bible-based counsel, the Bible warns:  "A man repeatedly reproved but making his neck hard will suddenly be broken, that without healing."  (Proverbs 29:1)  On the contrary, by taking good care of our figurative heart, we can experience the pleasure and the peace of mind that comes from living a simple, uncluttered life.  This has always been the recommended way of true Christianity.  The apostle Paul was inspired to write:  "To be sure, it is a means of great gain, this godly devotion along with self-sufficiency. For we have brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out.  So, having sustenance and  covering , we shall be content with these things." -1 Timothy 6:6-8.

Yes, training and exercising ourselves  in the way of godly devotion will ensure that we have a healthy and strong figurative heart.  By keeping a close watch on our spiritual diet, we will allow no room for this world's destructive ways and thinking to cause any harm or damage to our spirituality.   Above all, by accepting Jehovah's provisions through his organization, may we regularly submit ourselves to checkups of our figurative heart.  Diligently doing so will go a long way toward avoiding the sad consequences of a spiritual heart attack. 

Next time:DEVELOP YOUR HEART TO FEAR JEHOVAH

The Watchtower, 2001

You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack

Do Not Ignore Warning Signs

It is with good reason that the Scriptures give high priority to the condition of the figurative heart.  At Jeremiah 17:9, 10, we read: "The heart is more treacherous than anything else and is desperate.  Who can know it?  I, Jehovah, am searching the heart, examining the kidneys, even to give to each one according to his ways, according to the fruitage of his dealings."  But besides examining our heart,  Jehovah also makes loving provisions to help us in making the needed self-examination.

Through "the faithful and discreet slave,"  we are given timely reminders.  (Matthew 24:45) For example, one of the chief ways in which our figurative heart could deceive us is by causing us to indulge in worldly fantasies.  These are unrealistic imaginations, daydreams, idle mind wanderings.  Such can become very harmful, especially if they arouse unclean thoughts.  Hence, we must reject them completely.  If we hate lawlessness as Jesus did, we will guard our heart against indulging in worldly fantasies. -Hebrews 1:8, 9. 

Additionally, we have the help of loving elders in the Christian congregation.  While the concern of others is certainly appreciated, the responsibility to take care of our figurative heart finally rests with each one of us personally.  It is up to us individually to "make sure of all things" and to 'keep testing whether we are in the faith.' -1 Thessalonians 5:21; 2 Corinthians 13:5.

Next time: You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Safeguard the Heart

The Watchtower, 2001

You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Overconfidence

Overconfidence.  Many victims of a heart attack were very confident about their state of health just prior to their heart attack.  Often, checkups or medical examinations were brushed off or even laughed off as completely unnecessary.  Similarly, some may feel that since they have been Christians for a while, nothing could possibly happen to them.  (wrong attitude)  They may neglect submitting themselves to spiritual checkups or self-examination  until disaster strikes.  It is vital to keep in mind the good counsel against overconfidence as given by the apostle Paul: "Let him that thinks he is standing beware that he does not fall."  The course of wisdom is to acknowledge  our imperfect nature and to examine ourselves spiritually from time to time. -1 Corinthians 10:12; Proverbs 28:14

Next time: You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Do Not Ignore Warning Signs

The Watchtower, 2001

You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack -Stress

Stress.  Yet, another major cause of physical heart attacks is excessive stress.  Similarly, stress, or "anxieties of life," can easily prove fatal to the figurative heart, even causing the victim to cease serving God entirely.   Timely is Jesus' warning in this regard:  "Pay attention to yourselves that your hearts never become weighed down with overeating and heavy drinking and anxieties of life, and suddenly that day be instantly upon you as a snare."  (Luke 21:34, 35) Stress can also be brought to bear on our figurative heart if we agonize over a secret sin for a prolonged period of time.  King David learned from experience the pain associated with such harmful stress when he said:  "There is no peace in my bones on account of my sin.  For my own errors have passed over my head; like a heavy load they are too heavy for me." -Psalm 38:3, 4.

Next time: You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Overconfidence

The Watchtower, 2001

You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack -Exercise

Exercise.

It is well-known that a sedentary life-style can contribute to physical heart attacks.  Similarly,  a spiritually sedentary life-style can have serious consequences.  For example, a person may have some share in the Christian ministry but may limit this to what might be called the comfort zone, putting forth little or no effort to become "a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright."  (2 Timothy 2:15) Or one may attend some Christian meetings but may do little to prepare for and participate in them.  There may be no spiritual goals or appetite or enthusiasm for spiritual things.  The lack of spiritual exercise eventually weakens, even deadens, what faith he might once have had.  (James 2:26)  The apostle Paul noted this danger when writing to Hebrew Christians, some of whom apparently had fallen into such a  sedentary spiritual life-style.  Notice how he warned of the possible hardening effect this could have on their spirituality.  "Beware, brothers, for fear there should ever develop in any one of you  a wicked heart lacking faith by drawing away from the living God; but keep on exhorting one another each day, as long as it may be called  'Today.' for fear any one of you should become hardened by the deceptive power of sin." -Hebrews 3:12, 13.

Next time: You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack -Stress

The Watchtower, 2001

You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Anatomy of a Figurative Heart Attack

Anatomy of a Figurative Heart Attack

As with physical heart disease, one of the surest ways to prevent a heart attack spiritually speaking is to learn of its causes and then take steps to do something about them.  So let us consider some of the basic factors that contribute to problems of the heart-literal and figurative.

Diet. It is generally accepted that junk food, though appealing to the palate, offers little or no health benefits.  Similarly, mental junk food is readily available and tantalizing to the senses, but it is detrimental to one's spiritual health.  Cleverly marketed in the media is a profusion of material that features illicit sex and drugs, violence, and the occult.  Feeding one's mind on such a diet is deadly to the figurative heart.  God's Word warns:  "Everything in the world-the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one's means of life -does not originate with the Father, but originates with the world.  Furthermore, the world is passing away and so is it desire , but he that does the will of God remains forever. -1 John 2:16, 17. 

Healthful foods, like fruits and green vegetables, offer little appeal to a junk-food addict.  Likewise, wholesome and solid spiritual food may have little appeal to a person who has become accustomed to feeding his mind and heart on worldly fare.  For a time, he may subsist on  the "milk" of God's Word.  (Hebrews 5:13) In the long run, he doe snot develop the spiritual maturity needed to should his basic spiritual responsibilities in the Christian congregations and ministry.  (Matthew 24:14; 28:19; Hebrews 1-0:24, 25)  Some in that situation have allowed their spiritual strength to dwindle to such a point that they become inactive, or nonpracticing, Witnesses!

Another danger is that outward appearance can be deceptive.  Perfunctory performance of Christian duties may mask the growing frailty of a figurative heart that is weakened by secret indulgence in materialistic philosophies or entertainment that features immorality, violence, or the occult.  Such a faulty  spiritual diet may appear to have little effect on one's spirituality, but it could paralyze the figurative heart the way a poor diet can  harden the arteries and damage the literal heart.  Jesus warned against allowing improper desires to enter one's heart.  He said:  "Everyone that keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."  (Matthew 5:28)  Yes, a poor spiritual diet can lead to a spiritual heart attack.  Yet, there are further concerns.

Next time: You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack - Exercise

The Watchtower, 2001

You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack

A  World class athlete, in full command of his skill and to all outward appearances in excellent physical condition, suddenly collapsed during a practice session and died.  The athlete was Sergei Grinkov, a two-time Olympic gold medalist ice skater, whose  career was cut short just as it started to blossom-when he was only 28 years old.  What a tragedy!  The cause?  A heart attack.  It was said that his death was totally unexpected because there was no sign of any kind to indicate that he was suffering from heart disease.  Yet, examiners found that he had an enlarged heart and severely blocked arteries.



While it may appear that many heart attacks occur without warning, medical authorities say that it is rarely the case.  The truth is that such tell-tale signs and contributing factors are breathlessness, overweight, and chest pains are often ignored.  As  a result, even if death does not claim them as victims as the time of their heart attack, many become severely handicapped for the rest of their lives. 

The consensus of medical opinion today is that prevention of a heart attack requires constant vigilance in one's diet and life-style and regular check-ups.  Such measures, along with a genuine willingness to makes changes where necessary, will go a long way in sparing one the tragic efforts of a heart attack.

There is, however, another aspect of our heart that merits even more attention.  "More than all else that is to be guarded, safeguard your heart," the Bible warns us,  "for out of it are the sources of life."  (Proverbs 4:23)   This scripture, of course, is referring principally to the figurative heart.  Vigilance is needed to safeguard our physical heart, but it is even more important to remain on the alert if we want to protect our figurative heart against diseases that can lead to spiritual death.

Next time:  Anatomy of a Figurative Heart Attack

The Watchtower, 2001

THE GOLDEN RULE It Is Practical -What About You?

What About You?

Reflect for a moment on the agony and suffering that disregard for the Golden Rule has brought on mankind since the rebellion in Eden, instigated by Satan the Devil.  Jehovah purposes to reverse the situation soon.  How? "For this purpose the Son of God was made manifest, namely, to break up the works of the Devil."  (1 John 3:8)  This will occur under the reign of God's Kingdom, in the wise and capable hands of Jesus Christ, the one who taught and lived by the Golden Rule. -Psalm 37:9-11; Daniel 2:44.

King David of ancient Israel observed: "A young man I used to be, I have also grown old, and yet i have not seen anyone righteous left entirely, nor his offspring looking for bread.  All day long he is showering favor and lending, and so his offspring are in line for a blessing."  (Psalm 37:25. 26)  Would you not agree that most people today are taking and grabbing rather than "showing favor and lending"?  Clearly, following the Golden Rule can lead to true peace and security because it puts one in line for blessings now and in the future under God's Kingdom.  God's Kingdom will do away with every last vestige of selfishness and wickedness on earth and replace the present system  of corrupt man-made rule with a new system of God's making.  Then, all people will enjoy living by the Golden Rule. -Psalm 29:11; 2 Peter 3:13.

Next time: You Can Avoid a Spiritual Heart Attack

The Watchtower, 2001

THE GOLDEN RULE It Is Practical -People Who Apply the Golden Rule

People Who Apply the Golden Rule

Are there people in our time who really live by the Golden Rule?  Yes, and not just when it is convenient.  For example, during World War II in Nazi Germany, Jehovah's Witnesses maintained  their faith in God an love for neighbor and refused to compromise the Golden Rule.  While the State enforced a campaign of hate and discrimination against all Jews, the Witnesses continued to follow the Golden Rule.  Even in concentration camps, they kept on caring for fellow humans, sharing food, though scarce, with starving Jews and non-Jews alike.  Furthermore, though commanded by the State to take up arms to kill others, they refused to do so, just as they did not desire to be killed by others.  How could they kill those whom they were to love as themselves?  For their refusal, many of them were sent not only to concentration camps but to their death.. -Matthew 5:43-48.

As you read this article, you are benefiting from another example of the Golden Rule at work.  Jehovah's Witnesses realize that today many people suffer hopelessly and helplessly.  Because of this, the Witnesses voluntarily take positive action  to help others to learn about the hope and the practical direction found in the Bible. It is all part of a global educational work now being done on an unprecedented scale.  The result?  As prophesied at Isaiah 2:2-4,  'many peoples," in fact over six million individuals around the world, have been  'instructed in Jehovah's ways and walk in his paths.'  Figuratively, they have learned "to beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears."  They have found peace and security in these troublesome times.

Next time: THE GOLDEN RULE  It Is Practical -What About You?

The Watchtower, 2001

THE GOLDEN RULE It Is Practical

An Example to Imitate

Jesus Christ, on the other hand, not only taught the Golden Rule but also set the finest example in following it.  He genuinely cared for the welfare of others.  (Matthew 9:36; 14:14; Luke 5:12, 13)  Once, near the city of Nain, Jesus saw a heartbroken widow in a funeral procession for her only son.  The Bible account says:  "When the Lord caught sight of her, he was moved with pity for her."  (Luke 7:11-15) The expression "moved with pity,"  according to Vine's expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, denotes  "to  be moved to one's  inwards."  He felt her pain of heart, and it moved him to take positive steps to relieve her pain.  What joy it brought that widow when Jesus resurrected the boy and "gave him to his mother"!

Finally, in harmony with God's purpose, Jesus willingly suffered and gave his life as a ransom so that mankind could be freed from slavery under sin and death.  This was the ultimate example of living by the Golden Rule. -Matthew 20:28; John 15:13; Hebrews 4:15.

Next time: THE GOLDEN RULE It Is Practical - People Who Apply the Golden Rule

The Watchtower, 2001

THE GOLDEN RULEIt Is Practical

Selfishness Took Over

Since mankind had such a wonderful start, what happened? (Eve, the troublemaker, and man listening when he should not have) Simply stated, selfishness, made its ugly appearance.  Most people are familiar with the Bible's account of what the first human couple did, as recorded in Genesis chapter 3.  Urged on by Satan, an opposer to all that God stands for, Adam and Eve selfish rejected God's rulership in preference to independence and self-determination.  Their selfish and rebellious action resulted not only in great loss to themselves but also  in tragic consequences for all their future offspring.  That was a clear demonstration of the dire result of ignoring the teaching that came to be known as the Golden Rule.  Consequently,  "through on man sin entered into  the world and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men because they had all sinned." -Romans 5:12. 

Though mankind as whole turned their back on the loving ways of Jehovah God, he did not abandon them.  For example, Jehovah gave the nation of Israel his Law to guide them. It taught them to treat others as they themselves would want to be treated.  The Law gave direction  on treatment of slaves, fatherless boys, and widows. It outlined how assault, kidnapping,and stealing were to be dealt with.  Sanitary laws showed concern for the health of others. There were even laws on sexual matters.  Jehovah epitomized his Law by telling the people:  "You must love your fellow as yourself," a statement that Jesus later quoted.  (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39, 40)   The Law also dealt with the treatment of alien residences among the Israelites.  The Law commanded:  " You  must not oppress an alien resident, as you yourselves have known the soul of the alien resident, because you became alien residents in the land of Egypt." In other words, the Israelites were to show empathetic kindness to the disadvantaged. -Exodus 23:9; Leviticus 19:34; Deuteronomy 10:19)  (yes, but he did say to treat them better than anyone else, He does not want us to show partiality to one particular race; as we All are equal. Tell that to the government)

As long as Israel faithfully followed the Law, Jehovah blessed the nation. Under the reigns of David and Solomon, the nation prospered and the people were happy and satisfied.  A historical account tells us:  "Judah and Israel were many, like the grains of sand that are by the sea for multitude, eating and drinking and rejoicing.  (some people don't know when to quit drinking)  And Judah and Israel continued to dwell in security, everyone under his own vine and under his own fig tree." -1 Kings 4:20, 25.

Sadly, the peace and security of the nation did not last long.  Though having God's Law, they Israelites did not observe it; they allowed selfishness to choke out their concern for others.  This, along with apostasy, resulted in hardship to them individually and as a nation.  Finally, in the year 607 B.C.E., Jehovah allowed the Babylonians to destroy the kingdom of Judah, the city of Jerusalem, and even the magnificent temple there.  For what reason?  " 'For the reason you did not obey my words, here I am sending and I will take all the families of the north,' is the utterance of Jehovah, 'even sending to Nebuchadrezzar the king of Babylon, my servant, and I will bring them  against its inhabitants and against all these  nations round about; and I will devote them to destruction and make them and object of astonishment and something to whistle at and places devastated to time indefinite.' " (Jeremiah 25:8, 9)  what a price to pay for abandoning Jehovah's pure worship!

Next time: THE GOLDEN RULE It Is Practical -An Example to Imitate

The Watchtower, 2001

THE GOLDEN RULE It is Practical

While most people view the Golden Rule as a moral teaching enunciated by Jesus, he himself stated:  "What I teach is not mine, but belongs to him that sent me." -John 7:16.


YES, the Originator of what Jesus taught, including what came to be known as the Golden Rule, is the one who sent Jesus, namely, the Creator, Jehovah God.

God originally purposed that all mankind treat one another as they would like to be treated.  He set the finest example in expressing care for the welfare of others in the way he created humans:  "God proceeded to create the man in his image, in God's image he created him; male and female he created them."  (Genesis 1:27)  This means that good lovingly endowed humans with a measure of his own outstanding qualities so that they could enjoy life in peace, happiness, and harmony-potentially forever.  Their God-given conscience, when properly trained, would guide them to treat others the way they themselves would want to be treated. 

Next time: Selfishness Took Over

The Watchtower, 2001

THE GOLDEN RULE A Universal Teaching - Golden Rule Tarnished

Golden Rule Tarnished

Throughout history, there have been cases of crime against humanity in which the rights of people were totally ignored.  These include the slave out of Africa, Nazi death camps, Japanese pow camps,  forced child labor, and brutal genocides in one place or another, the horrifying list could be much longer.  

Today, our high-tech world is self-centered.  Few people think about others when their own convenience or supposed rights are at stake.  (2 Timothy 3:1-5) Why have so many become selfish, cruel, unfeeling, and self-centered?  Is it not because the Golden Rule, though still widely known, is being brushed aside as unrealistic , a moral relic?  Sadly, this is the case even among many who claim to believe in God.  And judging by the way things are going,  people will only become more self-centered.

Therefore, the vital questions that must be considered  are:  What does living  by the Golden Rule involve?  Does anyone still live by it?  And will there ever be a time when all mankind will live in harmony with the Golden Rule?  For the truthful answers to these questions, please read the following article.

Next time: THE GOLDEN RULE It Is Practical

The Watchtower, 2001

THE GOLDEN RULE A Universal Teaching

"All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must do likewise do to them." -Matthew 7:12.


THOSE words were spoken nearly two thousand years ago by Jesus Christ in his famous Sermon on the the Mount.  In the centuries since, much has been said and written about that simple statement.  Among other things, it has been extolled as "the very essence of Scripture," a summary of the Christian's duty to his neighbor,"  and "a fundamental ethical principle."  So well-known has it become that it is often referred to as the Golden Rule.

The idea of the Golden Rule, however, is by no means confined to the so-called Christian would.  Judaism, Buddhism, and Greek philosophy all expounded this ethical maxim in one form or another. Well known, especially to people in the Far East, is a statement by Confucius, who is venerated in the Orient as the greatest sage and teacher.  In The Analects, the third of the Confucian Four Books, we find the thought expressed three times. Twice, in answers to queries from students.  Confucius stated:  "What you do not want done to you, do not do to others."  On another occasion,m when his pupil Zigong boasted
"What I do not want others to do to me, I also do not want to do to them," The teacher responded with this sobering rejoinder,  "Yes, but this you are not yet able to do."

Reading these words, one can see that Confucius' statement is a negative version of what Jesus later said.  The obvious difference is that the Golden Rule stated by Jesus requires positive actions of doing good to others.  Suppose people  were to act in harmony with Jesus' positive  statement, caring about and taking steps to help others, living by this code daily.  Do you think that would make today's world a better place? Undoubtedly.

Whether the rule is stated in the positive, the negative, or any other form, what is significant is that people in different times and places and with diverse backgrounds have put much  stock in the idea of the Golden Rule.  This simply shows that what Jesus stated in the Sermon on the Mount is a universal teaching that touches the life of people everywhere in every age.

Ask yourself:  'Would I like to be treated respectfully fairly, honestly?  Would i like to live in a world without racial prejudice crime and war?  Would I like to be in a family in which everyone showed concern for the feelings and welfare of others?' Actually, who would say not to such possibilities?  The grim reality is that very few enjoy these conditions.  For most people, it is almost too much to hope for such things. 

Next time: THE GOLDEN RULE - Golden Rule Tarnished

The Watchtower, 2001

PROVE YOURSELF READY FOR JEHOVAH'S DAY-By All Means, Prove Yourself Ready

By All Means, Prove Yourself Ready

Time ran out for the world of Noah's day, and it will run out for the present system of things.  The apostle Peter assures us:  "Jehovah's day will come as a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a hissing noise, but the elements being intensely hot will be dissolved, and earth and the works in it will be discovered."  Neither the symbolic heavens-wicked governments-nor the symbolic earth-mankind alienated from God-will survive the heat of God's burning anger.  Indicating how we can prove ourselves ready for that day, Peter exclaims:  "Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of persons ought you to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion, awaiting and keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah!" -2 Peter 3:10-12.

Our regularly attending Christian meetings and sharing in preaching the good news are included among these acts and deeds of godly devotion.  May we perform them with heartfelt devotion to God while we wait patiently for Jehovah's great day.  let us "do [our] utmost to be found finally by [God]spotless and unblemished and in peace. -2 Peter 3:14.

(note; God knows that we are not perfect and while on earth, will not be perfect. All we can do is the best we can to read all the bible, and ask for help in understanding what it says and follow it. God gives you understanding when he feels you are ready for it.  But in order to do all this and more.You have to make it a sincere effort to want to know the truth-true knowledge  of what God wants from all of us and  accept it for what it is, the truth.  It took me awhile to accept the truth, but in the end, when I was ready, something just told me that I need to accept the truth for what it is. Please people! Do  this for yourselves and you won't regret any of it. I don't. I did at first for a short time, then I realized it was meant to be.  You just know somehow that you are ready, believe me. It shocked me too. But it was great. I enjoy have a relationship with God. Just remember, God works in is own time and not mysteriously either!  Look around you, is all this a mystery? It looks pretty clear to me. )

Next time: THE GOLDEN RULE A Universal Teaching

The Watchtower, 2003

PROVE YOURSELF READY FOR JEHOVAH'S DAY

Conclusion of  Shun Spiritually Damaging Life-Styles

Anxiety may also be brought on by materialistic pursuits.  For example,m some complicate their lives by living beyond their means.  Others have been enticed  by get-rich-quick schemes and risky financial investments.  For others, secular education as a means to attain financial success becomes a snare.  Granted, a certain level of schooling may be useful to obtain employment.   However, the truth is that in the time-consuming pursuit of obtaining advanced education, some have harmed themselves spiritually.  What a dangerous situation to be in as the day of Jehovah nears!  The Bible warns:  "Those who are determined to  be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and hurtful desires, which plunge men into destruction and ruin." -1 Timothy 6:9.


Essential to not being drawn into a materialistic way of life is cultivating the ability to distinguish between right and wrong when making decisions.  This ability is developed  by regularly partaking of 'solid spiritual food belonging to mature  people' and by 'having our perceptive powers trained through use.'   (Hebrews 5:13, 14) Making sure "of the more important things"  when setting priorities will also safeguard us from making wrong choices. -Philippians 1:10.

 A materialistic life-style can blind us, leaving little or no time for spiritual pursuits.  How can we examine ourselves and avoid being ensnared  by such a life-style?  We need to consider prayerfully how and to what extent we can simplify our life.   King Solomon of ancient Israel said:  "Sweet is the sleep of the one serving, regardless of whether it is little or much that he eats; but the plenty belonging to the rich one is not permitting him to sleep."  (Ecclesiastes 5:12)  Does taking care of unnecessary material possessions consume a lot of our time and energy?  The more we own, the more we have to maintain, insure, and protect.  Could it be to  our advantage to simplify our life by freeing ourselves of certain belongings? 

Next time: By All Means, Prove Yourself Ready

The Watchtower, 2003