What Can You Learn From Children?

"YOU'RE acting like a child!"  If those words were directed at us, we would likely be offended.  Adorable as they are, little children clearly lack the maturity, experience, and wisdom generally associated with age. -Job 12:12.

Nevertheless, on one occasion Jesus told his disciples:  "Truly I say to you, Unless you turn around and become as young children, you will by no means enter into the kingdom of the heavens."  (Matthew 18:3)  What did Jesus mean?  What qualities do young children possess that adults do well to imitate?


Cultivating Childlike Humility

Consider the situation that prompted Jesus' remarks.   Having arrived in Capernum after a long journey, Jesus asked his disciples:  "What were you arguing over on the road?"   The embarrassed disciples remained silent, for they had argued among themselves about which one of them was greater.  Finally, they mustered up the courage to ask Jesus:  "Who really is the greatest in the kingdom of the heavens?" -Mark 9:33, 34; Matthew 18:1.

It may seem surprising that after being with Jesus for nearly three years, the disciples would argue about position or rank.  However, they had been raised in the Jewish religion, which place great importance on such matters.  Evidently, this religious background, coupled with human imperfection, influence the disciple's thinking. 

Next time: Conclusion of What Can You Learn From Children - Cultivating Childlike Humility

The Watchtower, 2007

Why Be TRUTHFUL? - Truth Will Be Established Forever

Truth Will Be Established Forever

"It is the lip of truth that will be firmly established forever, but the tongue of falsehood will be only as long as a moment," explains Proverbs 12:19.  Yes, truthful speech is marked by durability and permanence.  And human relationships are more stable and satisfying when people are committed to speaking the truth and acting in harmony with it.  Indeed, truthfulness brings immediate rewards.  These include a clean conscience, a good reputation, and strong relationships in marriage, in the family, among friends, and even in business.

 Lies, on the other hand, cannot stand the test of time. (Yeah, they always come back to bite you in the butt, believe me, I've seen it happen to people I know)  A tongue that utters falsehood may deceive for a while, but untruth does to prevail in the long term.  Furthermore, Jehovah, the God of truth, has  set a time limit for the toleration of untruth and of those who promote lies.  The Bible promises that Jehovah will wipe out the influence of Satan the Devil, the father of the lie, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth.  Jehovah will  soon put an end to all lies and liars. -Revelation 21:8.

What a relief it will be when at last "the lip of truth" will be firmly established forever!


Next time: What Can You Learn From Children?

The Watchtower, 2007

Why Be TRUTHFUL? - What Is a Lie?

What Is a Lie?

Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth is a lie.  Why not?  A dictionary defines a lie as "an assertion of something known or believed by the speaker to be untrue with intent to deceive."  Yes, lying includes the intention to deceive someone. Hence, to speak an untruth unwittingly-such as giving someone incorrect facts or figures by mistake-is not the same as to tell a lie. 

Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth is a lie

Moreover, we need to consider whether the person asking for information is entitled to a comprehensive answer.  For instance, suppose Manfred had been asked the same questions  by an executive of another company.  Would Manfred have been obliged to tell him everything?  Not really.  Since that executive had no right to such information, Manfred would have had no obligation to provide it.  Of course, even in this case, it would have been wrong for hm to tell a lie.

What example did Jesus Christ set in this regard?  On one occasion, Jesus was conversing with some unbelievers who showed interest in his travel plans.  "Pass on over from here and go into Judea,"  they advise him.  What was Jesus' reply?  "You go up to the festival [in Jerusalem]; I am not going up to this festival, because my due time has not yet fully come."   Shortly thereafter, Jesus did travel to Jerusalem for the festival.  Whey did he answer that way?  They were not entitled  to know the exact details of his whereabouts.  So while Jesus did not utter and untruth, he gave them an incomplete answer in order to limit the possible harm they could do to him or to his followers.  This was not a lie, for the apostle Peter wrote about Christ:  "He committed no sin, nor was deception found in his mouth." -John 7:1-13; 1 Peter 2:22.

What about Peter himself?  On the night of Jesus' arrest, did not Peter lie three times and deny knowing Jesus? Yes, Peter caved in to fear of man and lied.  But he immediately  "wept bitterly" and repented, and his sin was forgiven.  Moreover, he learned from his mistake.  Some days later, he spoke in public about Jesus and resolutely refused to stop when threatened by the Jewish authorities in Jerusalem.  Surely Peter's temporary setback and quick recovery should be an encouragement to all of us, who can easily be over whelmed in a moment of weakness and stumble in word or deed. -Matthew 26:69-75; Acts 4:18-20; 5:27-32; James 3:2.

Next time: Why Be TRUTHFUL? - Truth Will Be Established Forever

The Watchtower, 2007

Why Be TRUTHFUL? - Greed and selfish ambition are the motivers that impel many people to lie

Greed  and ambition are what impel many people to lie

Another factor behind lying is fear-fear of the consequences or of what others may think  (If you constantly worry about others think, you could drive yourself crazy. It is not important  what they think, it is what God thinks that is important, only God)  if the truth is told.  It is only natural that people wish to be liked or accepted by others.  This desire, however, can move them to distort the truth, even if only a little, in order to cover up shortcomings, to hide unflattering details,  or simply to leave a good impression.  Appropriately, Solomon wrote:  "Trembling at men is what lays a snare, but he that is trusting in Jehovah will be protected." -29:25.   (note:Jehovah is the one that will be doing the judging later, that is what you be concerned about, not what people think, they are imperfect sinful humans, God is perfect) 

Loyalty to the God of the Truth

What did Manfred say when the company executive asked him for an explanation?  Manfred told the truth.  He said:  "The teacher dismissed us early for the day, so I came to work. As for the others, I cannot speak for them. Perhaps you could ask them personally."

Manfred could have given a clever, misleading answer, thus making himself popular with the other trainees.  But he had good reasons for sticking loyally to the truth.  Manfred is one of Jehovah's Witnesses.  His honesty preserved his clean conscience.  It  also won him the trust of his employer.  As part of his training, Manfred was assigned to the jewelry department, where trainees were not normally allowed to work.  Some 15 years later when Manfred was promoted to a position of responsibility in the company, the same executive phoned to congratulate him and to recount this incident of integrity to the truth.

Since Jehovah is the God of truth, anyone wishing to have a close relationship with him must "put away falsehood" and "speak truth."  A servant of God ought to love truth.  "A faithful witness is one that will not lie? -Ephesians 4:25; Proverbs 14:5.

Next time: Why Be TRUTHFUL? - What Is a Lie?

The Watchtower, 2007

Why Be TRUTHFUL? - Why the Tendency to Lie?

Why the Tendency to Lie?

The fact that "the whole world" lies in the power of Satan tells us why many people lie.  But we might ask, 'why did Satan, "the father of the lie," do so?'  Satan knew that Jehovah is the rightful Sovereign of all that He has created, including the fist human pair.  Yet, Satan, desired for himself this lofty and unique position, something to which he was not entitled.  Out of greed and selfish ambition, he schemed to usurp Jehovah's place.  To achieve this, Satan resorted to lies and deceit. -1 Timothy 3:6,

What about today? Do you not agree that greed and selfish ambition are still very much the motives that impel many people to lie?  Greedy business, corrupt politics , and false religion are fife with deception, falsehood, manipulation, and fraud.  Why? Is it not because people are often motivated by greed and ambition to get ahead or to reach out for wealthy, power, or position to which they are not entitled?  A wise ruler, King Solomon of ancient Israel, warned:  "He that is hastening  to gain riches  will not remain innocent."  (Proverbs 28:20) And the apostle Paul wrote: "The love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things."   (1 Timothy 6:10)  The same could surely be said of the inordinate desire for power or position.

Next time: Why Be TRUTHFUL? - Greed and selfish ambition are the motives  that impel many people to lie

The Watchtower, 2007

Why Be TRUTHFUL? - Truth and Untruth - A Fundamental Rivalry

Truth and Untruth - A Fundamental Rivalry

At the start of mankind's history, everything was based on truth.  There was no twisting of facts, no manipulation or misrepresentation of the truth.  Jehovah, the Creator, is "the God of truth." His word is truth; he cannot lie, and he condemns lying and liars.  -Psalm 31:5; John  17:17; Titus 1:2.

That being the case, how did untruth come to be?  Jesus Christ provided the authoritative answer when he told his religious opposers, who were seeking to kill him:  "You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father.  That one was a manslayer when he began, and he did not stand fast in the truth, because truth is not in him.  When he speaks the lie, he speaks according to his own disposition, because he is a liar and the father of the lie."  (John 8:44)  Jesus, of course, was referring to the event in the garden of Eden when Satan induced the first human pair to disobey  God and this fall victim to sin and death. -Genesis 3:1-5; Romans 5:12.

Jesus' words clearly identify Satan as "the father of the lie," the originator of lying and untruth.  Satan continues to be the chief proponent of untruth and, in fact,  is "misleading the entire inhabited earth."  He bears a heavy responsibility for the damage that widespread lying as done to humans today. -Revelation 12:9.

The fundamental rivalry between truth and untruth, started by Satan the Devil, still rages today.  It permeates all levels of human society and affects every individual.  The way a person lives puts him on one side of the issue or the other.  Those on God's side base their life course on the truth of God's Word, the Bible.  Anyone who does not follow the way of the truth falls, knowingly or unknowingly, into the hands of Satan because "the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one." -1 John 5:19; Matthew 7:13, 14.

Next time: Why Be TRUTHFUL? - Why The Tendency to Lie?

The Watchtower, 2007

Why Be TRUTHFUL?

AT 18 years of age, Manfred was an office trainee.  The company he worked  for arranged for him and several other trainees to attend a vocational college two days each week.  One day the class was dismissed earlier than scheduled.  According to company rules, the trainees were to go back to work for the rest of the day.  Instead , they all went off to have a good time, except Manfred, who returned to the workplace.  By coincidence, the company executive in charge of the trainees cam by.  When he saw Manfred, he asked:  "Why are you not in class today?  And where are the other trainees?"  How should Manfred respond?

Manfred's predicament is typical.  Should he tell the truth, or should he cover up for his classmates?  To give  a truthful answer would mean trouble for the others and make him unpopular.  Is it all right to tell a lie under those circumstances?  What would you have done?  We will return to Manfred later, but let us first consider what is involved when we are called upon to decide whether to speak the truth or not.

Next time: Why be  TRUTHFUL? - Truth and Untruth -A Fundamental Rivalry

The Watchtower, 2007

TRUTHFULNESS Expected Only of Others? - Damage Done by Untruth

Damage Done by Untruth

Consider the damage that untruth can do.  Falsehood breeds distrust between marriage mates and among family members.  Unfounded gossip can damage a person's reputation.  Cheating by employees raises operating cost and results in more expensive products. False claims on tax returns rob governments of needed revenues to provide public services.  Fabrication by researchers ruin promising careers and tarnish the reputation of respected institutions.  Dishonest get-rich-quick schemes divest gullible investors of their life savings or worse.  No wonder the Bible tells us that among the things that are detestable to Jehovah God are "a false tongue" and "a false witness that launches forth lies"! -Proverbs 6:16-19.

Widespread lying can cause damage both to individuals and to society as a whole.  Few would dispute that fact.  Why, then, do people deliberately tell what is untrue?  And is every untruth a lie? We will consider the answers to these and other questions in the next article.

Next time: Why Be TRUTHFUL?

The Watchtower, 2007

TRUTHFULNESS Expected Only of Others?

"I HATE lies, and i hate being lied to!"  Exclaimed a 16-year-old girl.  Most of us feel the same way.  We like to think that information given to us-whether by word of mouth or in written form-is truthful.  But do we tell the truth when we pass information on to others?

In a survey carried out in Germany the vast majority  of the respondents felt that 'lying on minor issues to protect oneself or to protect others from harm is permissible, yes, even necessary so that people get along with one another."  And one Journalist wrote:  "To tell the truth and only the truth at all times is a noble ideal but boring."

Could it be that we prefer that other people speak the truth yet feel that we at times have good reason not to speak the truth ourselves?  Does it matter whether we tell the truth or not?  What are the consequences of speaking what is not true? 

Next time: TRUTHFULNESS  Expected Only of Others? - Damage Done by Untruth

The Watchtower, 2002

WHEN IT IS WISE TO RUN AWAY

TODAY'S world is often marked by a spirit of  bravado and confrontation or by temptation.  A person who flees from a situation is generally regarded as weak or cowardly.  He may even become subject to ridicule. 

However, the Bible makes it plain that there are times when running away is both wise and courageous.  Bearing that out, before sending his disciples out into the ministry, Jesus Christ told them:  "When they persecute you in one city, flee to another."  (Matthew 10:23)  Yes, Jesus' disciples were to try to escape from their persecutors.  They were not to carry on anything like a crusade, trying to convert others by force.  They bore a message of peace.  (Matthew 10:11-14; Acts 10:34-37)  So rather than allowing tempers to flare, Christians were to flee, to put distance between themselves and the source of provocation.  In this way, they maintained a good conscience as well as their precious relationship with Jehovah. -2 Corinthians 4:1, 2.

A contrasting example is found in the Bible book of Proverbs.  It tells of a young man who, instead of fleeing in the face of temptation went after a prostitute "like a bull that comes even to the slaughter."  The result?  Calamity because of succumbing to the temptation that involved his very soul. -Proverbs 7:5-8, 21-23.

What if you should face a temptation to commit sexual immorality or confront  some other potential danger?  According to God's Word, the appropriate action may well be to flee, to distance yourself from the scene immediately. -Proverbs 4:14, 15; 1 Corinthians 6:18;  2 Timothy 2:22.


Next time: TRUTHFULNESS Expected Only of Others?

The Watchtower, 2002

Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - Cultivate Fellow Feeling

Cultivate Fellow Feeling

We may not naturally be very empathetic, yet we can cultivate this fellow feeling. If we listen more attentively, observe more keenly, and imagine ourselves in the situation of another more frequently, our empathy will grow.  We will as a result feel impelled to show more love, kindness, and compassion to our children, to other Christians, and to our neighbors.

Never allow selfishness to smother your empathy.  "None of you should think only of his own affairs," Paul wrote, "but consider other people's interest also."  (Philippians 2:4, Phillips)  our everlasting future depends on the empathy of Jehovah and of his High Priest,Jesus Christ.  Thus, we have a moral obligation to cultivate this quality.  Our empathy  will empower us to become better ministers and better parents.  Above all, empathy will help us to discover that "there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving." -Acts  20:35.

Next time: WHEN IT IS WISE TO RUN AWAY

The Watchtower, 2002

Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - Empathy Helps in Christian Activities

Empathy Helps in Christian Activities

Few of us could disregard the plight of a starving child if we had food available to share with him.  If we have empathy, we will also discern a person's spiritual condition.  The Bible relates about Jesus:  "On seeing the crowds he felt pity for them, because  they were skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd."  (Matthew 9:36) Millions today are in a similar condition, and they need help.  (Of course, some do not realize they need help)

As in Jesus' day, we may have to overcome prejudice or ingrained tradition to reach the hearts of some people.  The empathetic minister endeavors to find common ground or to speak about subjects that are on the minds of people in order  to make his message more appealing.  (Acts 17:22, 23; 1 Corinthians 9:20-23)  Acts of kindness  motivated by empathy can also make our listeners more receptive to the Kingdom message, as was true in the case of  the  Philippian jailer.

Empathy is invaluable in helping us overlook the failings of others within the congregation. If we endeavor to understand the feelings of a brother who has offended us, we will doubtless find it much easier to forgive him.  Possibly we would have reacted in the same way had we been in the same situation and had we had his background.  Jehovah's empathy moves him to 'remember that we are dust,' so should not our empathy motivate us to make allowances for the imperfections of others and to 'forgive them freely'? -Psalm 103:14; Colossians 3:13.

If we have to give counsel, we will probably do so in a much kinder way if we comprehend the feelings and sensitivities of the one who has erred.  The empathetic Christians elder reminds himself:  "I too could have made this mistake. I could be in his situation.'  Paul thus recommends:  "Try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness, as you each keep an eye on yourself, for fear you also may be tempted." -Galatians 6:1

Empathy can also impel us to offer practical help if it lies within our power to do so, even though a fellow Christian may be reluctant to ask for it.  The apostle Paul writes: "Whoever has this world's means for supporting life and beholds  his brother having need and yet shuts the door of his tender compassions upon him, in what way does the love of God remain in him?  . . . Let us love, neither in word nor with the tongue, but in deed and truth." -1 John 3:17, 18.

In order  to live "in deed and truth," we first need to see our brother's p;articular needs.  Do we observe carefully the needs of others with a view to helping them?  That is what empathy is all about. 

Next time: Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion -Cultivate Fellow Feeling

The Watchtower, 2002

Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - How to Cultivate Empathy

How to Cultivate Empathy

The Scriptures repeatedly encourage us to imitate our heavenly Father and his Son, Jesus Christ, so empathy is a quality we need to develop.  How can we do this?  There are three main ways by which we can sharpen our sensitivity to the needs and feelings of others: by listening, by observing, and by imagining.

Listen.  By listening carefully we learn what problems others face.  And the better we listen, the more likely they are to open up their hearts and reveal their feelings.  "I can talk to an elder if I feel confident  that he will listen to me,"  explains Miriam.  "I want to know that he really understands  my problem.  My confidence in him grows when he asks me searching questions that show he has listened  carefully to what I have told him." 

Observe.  Not everyone will openly tell us how they feel or what they are going through.  A keep observer, however, will notice when a fellow Christian seems depressed, when a teenager becomes uncommunicative, or when a zealous minister loses his enthusiasm.  This ability to sense a problem in its early stages is vital for parents.  "Somehow, my mother knows how I feel before i talk to her,"  observes Marie,  "so it is easy for me to talk frankly to her about my problems."

Use your imagination.  The most powerful way to stimulate empathy is to ask yourself:  'If I were in this situation, how would I feel?  How would I respond?  what would I need? Job's three false comforters proved incapable of putting themselves in his position.  Hence, they condemned  him for imaginary sins that they   assumed he must have committed.

Imperfect humans often find it easier to judge mistakes than to understand feelings.  However, if we try hard to imagine the distress of someone afflicted, it will help us to sympathize rather than condemn.  "I give much better counsel when I listen carefully and try to understand the whole situation before beginning  to offer suggestions," commented Juan, and experience elder.

The publications distributed by Jehovah's Witnesses have helped many in this regard.  The Watchtower and Awake! magazines have discussed problems as complex as depression and child abuse.  This timely information helps readers to be more sensitive  to the feelings of those who suffer in such ways.  Likewise, the book Questions Young People Ask -Answers That Work has helped many parents to relate to their children's problems.

Next time: Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - Empathy Helps in Christian Activities

The Watchtower, 2002

Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion -Scriptural Examples of Empathy

Scriptural Examples of Empathy

Jehovah is our prime example of empathy.  Although perfect himself, he doe snot expect us to be perfect, "for he himself well knows the formation  of us, remembering that we are dust."  (Psalm 103:14; Romans 5:12)  Moreover, since he is aware of our limitations, 'he does not allow us to be tempted  beyond what we can bear.'   (1 Corinthians 10:13)  By means of his servants and his spirit, he helps us find the way out. -Jeremiah 25:4, 5; Acts 5:32.

Jehovah feels personally the pain his people suffer.  He told the Jews who had returned from Babylon:  "He that is touching you is touching my eyeball."  (Zechariah 2:8)  Keenly aware of God's empathy, Bible writer David said to him:  "Do put my tears in your skin bottle. Are they not in your book?"  (Psalm 56:8)  How comforting to know that Jehovah remembers -as if they were written in a book-the tears his faithful servants shed as they struggle to keep their integrity!

Like his heavenly Father, Jesus Christ is sensitive to the feelings of others.  When he healed a deaf man, he took him aside, likely so that his miraculous recovery would not unduly embarrass  or startle him.  (Mark 7:32-35)  On another occasion, Jesus observed a widow about to bury her only son.  He immediately sensed the pain she was suffering, approached the funeral procession, and resurrected the young man. -Luke 7:11-16.

After his resurrection, when Jesus appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus, he let Saul know how  his vicious persecution of the disciples affected him.  "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he told him.  (Acts 9:3-5)  Jesus personally felt the pain suffered by his disciples, like a mother who feels the pain of her sick child. Likewise, as our heavenly High Priest Jesus 'sympathizes with our weaknesses,' or according to Rotherham's version, he has "fellow-feeling with our weaknesses." -Hebrews 4:15.

The apostle Paul learned  to be sensitive to the suffering and feelings of others."Who is weak, and I am not weak?  Who is stumbled, and I am not incensed?"  He asked.  (2 Corinthians 11:29) When an angel miraculously freed Paul and Silas of their bonds in a Philippian jail, Paul's first thought was to advise the jailer that nobody has escaped.  He empathetically sensed that the jailer might commit suicide.  Paul knew that according to Roman custom, a jailer would be severely punished if a prisoner escaped-especially if he had been instructed  to guard him securely.  (Acts 16L24-28)  Paul's life-saving act of kindness impressed the jailer, and he and his household took steps to become Christians. -Acts 16:30-34.

Next time: Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - How to Cultivate Empathy

The Watchtower, 2002

Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - What is Empathy?

What is Empathy?

One dictionary says that empathy is the "identification with and understanding of another's situation, feelings, and motives."  It has also been described as the ability to put oneself in the other fellow's place.  So empathy requires first of all that we comprehend the circumstances of someone else and second that we share the feelings that those circumstances provoke in him.  Yes, empathy involves our feeling another person's pain in our heart. 

The word "empathy" does not appear in the Bible,  but the Scriptures do refer indirectly to this quality.  The apostle Peter counseled  Christians to show 'fellow feeling, brotherly affection and compassion.'  (1 Peter 3:8)  The Greek word rendered "fellow feeling" literally means "to suffer with another" or to "have compassion."  The apostle Paul recommended similar sentiments when he exhorted fellow Christians to "rejoice with people who rejoice, weep with people who weep."  Paul added:  "be minded the same way toward others as to yourselves."  (Romans 12:15, 16)  And do you not agree that  it would be practically impossible to love our neighbor as ourselves if we did not put ourselves in his place?

Most everyone has a degree of natural empathy.  Who has not been moved when seeing heartrending images of starving children or distraught refugees?  What loving mother can ignore the sobbing of her child?  But not all suffering is readily discernible.  How difficult it is to comprehend the feelings of someone who is experiencing depression, a concealed physical impediment, or even an eating disorder-if we have never had such problems ourselves! Nevertheless, the Scriptures show that we can and should develop fellow feeling toward those whose circumstances we do not share.

Next time: Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - Scriptural Examples of Empathy

The Watchtower, 2002

Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion

Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion

"SO LONG as you can sweeten another's pain, life is not in vain," wrote Helen Keller.  Keller certainly understood emotional pain. At the age of 19 months, an illness left her totally blind and deaf.  But a compassionate teacher taught Helen to read and write in Braille and, later to speak.

Keller's teacher, Ann Sullivan, knew only too well the frustration of fighting a physical disability.  She herself was nearly blind.  But Ann patiently devised a way to communicate with Helen by "spelling out" letters on Helen's hand.  Inspired  by the empathy of her teacher, Helen decided to dedicate her own life to helping the blind and the deaf.  Having overcome her own disability at great effort, she felt for those who were in similar circumstances.  She wanted to help them.

You have likely observed that in this selfish world, it is easy to 'shut the door of one's tender compassions' and ignore the needs of others.  (1 John 3:17)  Christians, however, are commanded to love their neighbor and to have intense love for one another (brotherly and sisterly love) (Matthew 22:39; 1 Peter 4:8)  Yet, you are probably aware of this reality; although we fully intend to love one another, we often overlook opportunities to reliever others' pain.  That may simply be because we are not aware of their needs.  Empathy is the key that can unlock  the door to our kindness and compassion. 

Next time: Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion - What Is Empathy?

The Watchtower, 2002

GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLE - Happy Results

Happy Results

As we strive to obey Jehovah, it is important to realize  that his laws are based on key principles.  For example, Christians are to avoid idolatry, (which means you don't spend more time with things, sports, TV, games, etc, than you do with God. God comes first and foremost or should in your life) sexual immorality, ( a chimpanzee would know what that is)  and the misuse of blood.  (if you can't figure that one out, read the Bible and ask God to be able to understand it)  (Acts 15:28, 29) What underlies the Christian stand on those issues?  God deserves our exclusive devotion; we should be faithful to our mate; and Jehovah is the life-Giver.  (Genesis 2:24; Exodus 20:5; Psalm 36:9)  Appreciating these underlying principles makes it easier to accept and follow the related laws.

As we discern the underlying principles and apply them, we realize that they are for our good.  The spiritual blessing enjoyed by God's people are often accompanied by tangible benefits.  For example, those who abstain from smoking, who live moral lives, and who respect the sanctity of blood avoid falling victim to certain diseases.  Similarity, living in harmony with divine truth may benefit us in economic, social, or domestic ways.  Any such tangible benefits prove the value of Jehovah's standards , that they truly are practical.  But gaining such practical advantages is not in itself the main reason for applying God's principles.  True Christians obey Jehovah because they love him, because he deserves their worship, and because it is the right thing to do. -Revelation 4:11.

Letting our life be guided by Bible principles leads to a superior way of life, which in itself may attract others to  the way of God.  Most important, our life course honors Jehovah. We realize that Jehovah is really a living God who wants the best for us, we come to feel even closer to him.  Yes, we further develop a loving relationship with our heavenly Father. 

Next time: Empathy Key to Kindness and Compassion

The Watchtower, 2002

GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES - Good Motive Is Needed

Good Motive Is Needed

Knowing and applying principles also protects us from the snare of empty, formal worship.  There is a difference between following principles and legalistically obeying rules.  Jesus clearly showed this in the Sermon on the Mount.  (Matthew 5:17-48)  Remember that Jesus' listeners were Jews, so their conduct should have been governed by the Mosaic Law.  But in reality they had   a distorted view of the Law.  They had come to stress the letter of the Law rather than its spirit.  And they emphasized their traditions, putting such above the teaching of God.  (Matthew 12:9-12; 15:1-9) As a consequence, the people in general were not taught to think in terms of principles.

In contrast, Jesus included in the Sermon on the Mount principles in five areas of morality:  anger, marriage and divorce, promises, revenge, and love and hate.  In each case, Jesus showed the benefit of following a principle.  Thus Jesus raised the moral standard of adultery, he gave us a principle that guards not only our acts but also our thoughts and desires: "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.

This example illustrates that we should never lose sight of the intent and spirit of Jehovah's principles. We should certainly not try to earn God's favor through moral formalism. Jesus exposed the fallacy of such an attitude by pointing to God's mercy and love.  (Matthew 12:7; Luke 6:1-11)  Following Bible principles, we will avoid trying to live (or demand others to live) by an extensive and rigid set of do's and don't's that go beyond the teachings of the Bible.  We will be more concerned about principles of love and obedience toward God than about the outside appearance of worship. -Luke 11:42.

Next time: GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLE - Happy Results

The Watchtower, 2002

GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES - Think and Act on the Basis of Principles

You have probably seen people who are inclined to obey laws grudgingly, out of fear of a penalty.  Respect for principles precludes such an attitude.  The very nature of principles moves those governed by them to respond from the heart.  In fact, most principles do not involve an immediate punishment  for those not conforming to them.  This gives us the opportunity to reveal why we obey Jehovah, what our heart motivation is.  We find an example in Joseph's refusing g the immoral advances  of Potiphar's wife.  Though Jehovah had not yet given a written sentence was prescribed for having relations with another man's wife, Joseph was aware of the principles of God-ordained marital faithfulness.  (Genesis 2:24; 12:18-20)  We can see from his response that such principles powerfully affected him:  "How could I commit this great badness and actually sin against God." -Genesis 39:9.

Today, Christians want to be guided by Jehovah's principles when it comes to personal matters, such as choice of associates, entertainment, music, reading material.  (1 Corinthians 15:33; Philippians 4:8) As we grow in knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of Jehovah and his standards, our conscience, our moral sense, will help us to apply divine principles under whatever circumstances  we face, even in very private matters. Guided by Bible principles, we will not look for loopholes in God's laws; nor will we imitate those who try to see how far they can go without breaking a certain law.  We realize  that such thinking is self-defeating and harmful. -James 1:22-25. 

Mature Christians recognize that a key to following godly principles is wanting to know how  Jehovah feels about a matter.  "O you lovers of Jehovah," exhorts the psalmist, "hate what is bad." (Psalm 97:10)  Listing some of the things  that God would classify  as bad, Proverbs 6:16-19 says:  "There are six things that Jehovah does hate; yes, seven are things detestable to his soul: lofty eyes, a false tongue, and hands that are shedding innocent blood, a heart fabricating hurtful schemes, feet that are in a hurry to run to badness, a false witness that launches forth lies, and anyone sending forth contentions among brothers."  When a desire to reflect how Jehovah feels on such fundamentals governs our lives, living in accord with principles becomes a consistent practice. -Jeremiah 22:16.

Next time: Guide Your Steps  by Godly Principles - Good Motive Is Needed

The Watchtower, 2002

GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES - Think and Act on the Basis of Principles

Thing and Act on the Basis of Principles

Time and again, "the Word of our God" encourages us to think and act on the basis of principles.  When Jesus was asked to summarize the Law he made two succinct statements-one emphasizing love for Jehovah, the other stressing love for fellowman.  (Matthew 22:37-40)  In doing so, Jesus partially quoted from an earlier brief summary of basic tenets of the Mosaic Law, stated at Deuteronomy 6:4, 5:  "Jehovah our God is one Jehovah. And you must love Jehovah your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your vital force."  Evidently, Jesus also had in mind God's directive found at Leviticus 19:18. In the clear, terse, and powerful ending of the book of Ecclesiastes, King Solomon's words epitomize a hose of divine laws:  "The conclusion of the matter, everything having been heard is: Fear the true God and keep his commandments.  For this is the whole obligation of man.  For the true God himself will bring every sort of work into the judgment in relation to every hidden thing, as to whether it is good or bad." -Ecclesiastes 12:12, 14; Micah 6:8.

Having a firm grasp of such basic principles can help us to understand and apply more specific directives.  Furthermore, if we do not thoroughly comprehend and accept basic principles, we might be able to make sound decisions and our faith may be easily shaken.  (Ephesians 4:14)  if we fix such principles in our mind and heart, we will be ready to use them in making decisions.  When we apply them with understanding, they bring success. -Joshua 1:8; Proverbs 4:1-9.

Discerning and applying Bible principles is not as easy as following a set of laws.  As imperfect humans we may shy away from the effort required to reason on principles.  We may prefer the convenience of a rule when we are faced with a decision  or a dilemma.  Sometimes we may seek direction from a mature Christians-maybe a congregation elder-expecting to receive a specific rule  that applies to our situation.  Yet, the Bible or Bible-based  publications may not provide a definite rule, and even if we are given one, it might not be a blanket guide for all times under all circumstances. You may remember that a certain man asked Jesus:  "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."  Instead of quickly providing  a ruling to resolve disputes between siblings, Jesus gave him a more general principle:  "Keep your eyes open and guard against every sort of covetousness."  Thus Jesus provided  a guideline that was useful then and remains so now. -Luke 12:13-15.

Next time: Conclusion of GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES - Think and Act on the Basis of Principles

The Watchtower, 2002

GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES - Godly Principles

Godly Principles

What are principles?  A principle is defined as "a general or fundamental truth: a comprehensive and fundamental law, doctrine, or assumption on which others are based or from which others are derived."  (Webster's Third International Dictionary)  A careful study of the Bible reveals that our heavenly Father provides fundamental directives that cover a variety of situations and aspects of life.  He does this with our eternal benefit in view.  That is in line with  what wise King Solomon wrote:  "Hear, my son, and accept my sayings.  Then for you the years of life will become many.  I will instruct you even in the way of wisdom;  I will cause you to tread in the tracks of uprightness."  (Proverbs 4:10, 11)  The key principles provided by Jehovah have a bearing on our relationship with him and with fellow humans, our worship, and our everyday lives.  (Psalm 1:1) Let us consider some of those fundamental principles.

Regarding our relationship with Jehovah, Jesus stated:  "You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind."    (Matthew 22:37)  Additionally, God provides principles related to our dealings with fellow humans, such as the Golden Rule:  "All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you , you also must likewise do to them."  (that doesn't mean  to be cruel  to  them, it means when someone treats you kindly, do so to them)   (Matthew 7:12; Galatians 6:10; Titus 3:2)  With respect to worship, we are admonished:  "Let us consider one another to incite to love and fine works, not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together."  (Hebrews 10:24, 25)  As to everyday aspects of our life, the apostle Paul says:  "Whether you are eating or drinking or doing anything else, do all things for God's glory."  (1 Corinthians 10:31) There are countless other principles in God's Word.

Principles are living, essential truths, and wise Christians learn to love them.  Jehovah inspired Solomon to write:  "To my words do pay attention.  To my sayings incline your ear.  May they not get away from your eyes.  Keep them in the midst of your heart.  For they are life to those finding them and health to all their flesh."  (Proverbs 4:20-22)  How do principles differ  from laws?  Principles provide the basis for laws. Rules, which tend to be specific, may be for some particular time or situation, but principles are timeless.  (Psalm 119:111)  Divine principles do not become outdated or pass away.  The inspired words of the prophet Isaiah prove true:  "The green grass has dried up, the blossom has withered; but  as for the word of our God, it will last to time indefinite." -Isaiah 40:8.

Next time:  GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES - Think and Act on the Basis of Principles

The Watchtower, 2002

GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES

GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES



"[Jehovah is] teaching you to benefit yourself."-ISAIAH 48:17.


AS SCIENTISTS labor to unlock the secrets of the universe, they are amazed by the tremendous amount of energy that is packed in the cosmos around us.  Our sun - a medium-sized star-produces as much energy as "100 billion hydrogen bombs exploding every second."  the Creator can control and direct such massive heavenly bodies by his sheer power.  (Job 38:12; Isaiah 40:26)  What about us humans, gifted with free will, moral capacity, reason, and the potential for spirituality?  In what way has our Maker seen fit to lead us?  He lovingly guides us by his perfect law and lofty principles, in conjunction with our well-trained conscience. -2 Samuel 22:31; Romans 2:14, 15.

God finds delight in intelligent creatures who choose to obey him.  (Proverbs 27:11) Instead of programming us to submit blindly as  mindless robots, Jehovah endowed us with free will so that we can make informed decisions to do what is right. -Hebrews 5:14.

Jesus, who perfectly reflected his Father, said to his disciples:  "You are my friends if you do what I am commanding you. I no longer call you slaves." (John 15:14, 15) In ancient times, a slave had little choice but to obey the orders of his master.  On the other hand, friendship is forged by the display of qualities that appeal to the heart.   We can become Jehovah's friends.  (James 2:23) This friendship is strengthened by mutual love.  Jesus linked obedience to God with love when he said:  "If anyone, loves me, he will observe my word, and my Father will love him."  (John 14:23) To that end-and to guide us safely-Jehovah invites us to live by his principles.

Next time: GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES - Godly Principles

The Watchtower, 2002

DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT - Blessings for Those Obeying God's Laws

Blessings for Those Obeying God's Laws



Through his prophet Isaiah, God said:  "My word that goes forth from my mouth . . .will have certain success."  (Isaiah 55:11)  Just as surely, when we earnestly strive to follow the standards found in his Word, we will have success, accomplish good, and find happiness.

Consider how God's laws are a sound guide to a successful marriage.  "Let marriage be honorable among all," wrote Paul, "and God will judge fornicators and adulterers."  (Hebrews 13:4)  Marriage mates are to be respectful and loving toward each other:  "Let each one of you individually so love his wife as he does himself; on the other hand, the wife should have deep respect for her husband."  (Ephesians 5:33)  The kind of love that is needed is described at 1 Corinthians 13:4-8:  "Love is long-suffering and kind.  Love is not jealous, it does not brag, does not get puffed up, does not behave indecently, does not look for its own interests, does not become provoked.  It does not rejoice over  unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth.  It bears all things,  believes all things,  hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails."  A marriage marked by this kind of love will not fail.

Another evidence that Jehovah's standards are beneficial, is the fact that he condemns drunkenness.  He even disapproves of 'giving oneself to a lot of wine.'  ( 1 Timothy 3:3, 8; Romans 13:13) Many who ignore God's standards on this matter suffer diseases caused or aggravated by excessive drinking.  Ignoring the Bible's counsel on moderation, some have got into the habit of heavy drinking to "help them relax."  The problems resulting from over drinking are many, including loss of respect, strained family relationships or family break-up, wasted income, and loss of employment.  (Proverbs 23:19-21, 29-35)  Are not Jehovah's standards regarding the use of alcohol a safeguard? 

God's standards have also proved to be practical in financial matters.  The Bible urges Christians to be honest and diligent.   (Luke 16:10; Ephesians 4:28; Colossians 3:23)  Because they follow this counsel, many Christians have been promoted or have kept  their jobs when others were laid off.  Financial benefits also result when a person avoids such unscriptural habits and addictions as gambling, smoking, and drug abuse.  No doubt  you can think of other examples of the economic  practicality of God's standards.

It is easy for imperfect humans to stray from God's laws and standards.  Think about the Israelites at Mount Sinai.  God said to them:  "If you will strictly obey my voice and will indeed keep my covenant, then you will certainly become my special property out of all other peoples."  They responded:  "All that Jehovah has spoken we are willing to do."  Yet, how contrary was the course they chose to follow!  (Exodus 19:5, 8; Psalm 106:12-43)   In contrast, let us accept and hold to God's standards.

The course of wisdom and happiness is to stick closely to the incomparable laws that Jehovah has provided  to help guide our lives.  (Psalm 19:7-11)  In order to do this successfully, we also need to appreciate the value of godly principles.  This is the subject of the following article.

Next time: GUIDE YOUR STEPS BY GODLY PRINCIPLES

 The Watchtower, 2002

DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT - Reasons for Cherishing Jehovah's Law

Reasons for Cherishing Jehovah's Law

We do well to cultivate a deep desire to understand Jehovah's law.  The psalmist expressed such a yearning when he said:  "Uncover my eyes, that I may  look at the wonderful things out of your law."  (Psalm 119:18)  The more we come to know god and his ways, the deeper will be our appreciation of  the truth of Isaiah's words:  " I, Jehovah, am your God, the One teaching you to benefit yourself, the One causing you to tread in the way in which you should walk.  O if only you would actually pay attention to my commandments!" (Isaiah 48:17, 18)  It is Jehovah's earnest desire that his people avoid calamity and enjoy life by paying attention to his commandments.  Let us examine some major reasons why we should cherish God's law.

Divine law comes from the One who knows us best.    Since Jehovah is our Creator, it is logical that he would know humans through and through.  (Psalm 139:1, 2; Acts 17:24-28)  Close friends, relatives, even parents cannot know us as well as Jehovah does.  Why, God knows us better than we know ourselves!  Our Maker has unparalleled comprehension of our spiritual, emotional, mental and physical needs.  As he directs his attention to us, he shows us an intimate  understanding of our makeup, our desires, and our aspirations.  Jehovah understands our limitations, but he also knows our potential for good.  says the psalmist: "He himself will knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust."  (Psalm 103:14) Thus, we can have  sense of spiritual security as we seek to walk in his law, willingly submitting ourselves to divine guidance. -Proverbs 3:19-26.

Divine law comes from the One who loves us.  God is deeply concerned about our lasting welfare.  Did he not at great cost to himself give his Son as "a ransom in exchange for many?"  (Matthew 20:28)  Has Jehovah not promised that 'he will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear'?  (1 Corinthians  10:13)  Does not the Bible assure us that he 'cares for us'?  (1 Peter 5:7)  No one is more lovingly interested in providing beneficial guidelines for human creation than Jehovah is.  He knows what is good for us and where the line between happiness and sorrow is drawn.  Even though we are imperfect and make mistakes, if we pursue righteousness, he shows his love for us in ways that will result in life and blessings. -Ezekiel 33:11.

God's law is reassuringly unchangeable.  In the turbulent times in which we live, Jehovah is a rock of stability, existing from everlasting to everlasting.  (Psalm 90:2) He said of himself:  "I am Jehovah; I have not changed."  (Malachi 3:6) God's standards, as recorded in the Bible, are completely reliable-unlike the quicksand of constantly changing human ideas.  (James 1:17) For example, for years psychologists advocated permissive child rearing, but later some changed their minds and admitted that  their advice was a mistake.  Worldly standards and guidelines on this matter sway to and fro as though buffeted by winds.  However, Jehovah's Word is unwavering.  For centuries the Bible has provided counsel on how to rear children with love.  The apostle Paul wrote:  'Fathers, do not be irritating your children, but go on bringing  them up on the discipline  and mental-regulating of Jehovah."  (Ephesians 6:4)  How reassuring it is to know that we can rely on Jehovah's standards; they will not change!  (Amen to that!)

Next time: DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT - Blessing for Those Obeying God's Laws

The Watchtower, 2002

DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT - The Scope of Jehovah's Law

The Scope of Jehovah's Law

An outstanding expression of divine law was the Law of Moses.  (Romans 7:12)  In time, Jehovah God replaced the Mosaic Law with "the law of the Christ."  (Galatians 6:2; 1 Corinthians  9:21)  As Christian s under "the perfect law that belongs to freedom,"  we appreciate that God does not limit his directives to certain aspects of our life, such as the doctrinal beliefs or ceremonial rites.  His standards cover all aspects of life, including family affairs, business dealings, conduct toward those of the opposite sex, attitudes toward fellow Christians, and participants in true worship. -James 1:25, 27.

For example, the Bible says:  "Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, not adulterers, nor men kept for unnatural purposes, nor men who life with men, nor thieves, nor greedy persons, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit God's kingdom."   (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10)  Yes, adultery and fornication are not just "love affairs."  Homosexual acts are not merely an alternative lifestyle."  These are violations of Jehovah's law.  Ans so are such things as stealing, lying and slander.  (Psalm 101:5; Colossians 3:9; 1 Peter 4:15) James condemned bragging, while Paul advise us to avoid foolish talking and obscene jesting.  (Ephesians 5:4; James 4:16)  For Christians, all these rules of conduct are part of the law of God. -Psalm 19:7.

Such fundamental regulations in  Jehovah's Word reveal that his law is much more than just a list of cold, legalistic statutes. It forms the basis for a balanced , productive  life,  with all aspects of conduct being affected for good.  Divine law is edifying, ethical, and instructive.  (Psalm 119:72)  The word "law" as used by the Hebrew word  toh-rah.  One Bible scholar says:  "This word is formed from a verb which means to direct, to guide, to aim, to shoot forwards.  Its . . . meaning, then, would be a rule of conduct."  To the psalmist the law was a gift from God.  Should we not esteem it similarly, allowing it to shape our life pattern?

All creatures need dependable direction and trustworthy guidance.  This is true of Jesus and other angels, who are higher than man.  (Psalm 8:5; John 5:30; 6:38; Hebrews 2:7;  Revelation 22:8, 9) If these are perfect creatures can benefit from divine guidance, how much more that is so for imperfect humans!  Human history and our personal experience have proved the validity of the prophet Jeremiah's observation:  "I well know, O Jehovah, that to earthling man his way does not belong.  It does not belong  to man who is walking even to direct his step." -Jeremiah 10:23.

If we desire to have a delightful and successful life, we mus look to God for guidance.  King Solomon recognized the danger of living according to personal standards , independent of divine guidance:  "There exist a way that is upright before a man, but the ways of death are the end of it afterward." -Proverbs 14:12.

Next time: Divine LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT - Reasons for Cherishing Jehovah's Law

The Watchtower, 2002

DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT - Jehovah -The Rightful Lawgiver

Jehovah-The Rightful Lawgiver

As the Creator, Jehovah is the ultimate rightful Lawgiver in the universe.  (Revelation 4:11)  The prophet Isaiah stated:  "Jehovah is our Statute-giver."  (Isaiah 33:22)  He has set the physical laws governing animate and inanimate creation.  (Job 38:4-38; 39:1-12; Psalm 104:5-19) As a creation of God, man is subject to Jehovah's physical laws. And although man is a free moral agent, capable of reasoning on his own,  he is happy only when he subjects himself to God's moral and spiritual laws. -Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 2:14-16.

As we know, Jehovah's physical Laws are unbreakable.  (Jeremiah 33:20, 21)  If a  person goes contrary to some physical laws, such as the law of gravity, he experiences the consequences.  Similarly, the moral laws of God are irrevocable and cannot be circumvented or violated with impunity.  They are enforced as surely as his natural laws, though the outcome may not be as  immediate.  "God is not one to be mocked.  For whatever a man is sowing, this he will also reap." -Galatians 6:7; 1 Timothy 5:24. 

Next time:  DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUT BENEFIT - The Scope of Jehovah's Law

The Watchtower, 2002

DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT

 

           "How I do love your law!" -PSALM 119:97


OBEYING divine laws is not a popular today.  For many, deferring to an invisible higher authority seems pointless.  We live in an era of moral relativism, of blurred boundaries between right and wrong, and of huge gray areas.  (Proverbs 17:15; Isaiah 5:20) Reflecting a way of thinking that is common in many secularized societies, a recent poll noted that "most Americans want to decide for themselves what is right, good and meaningful."  They opt for "no strong God. No strong rules.  No strong superiors, moral or otherwise."  A social analyst observed that today "individuals are expected to determine for themselves what it  means to lead a good and virtuous life."  He continued:   "Any form of higher authority has to tailor its commandments to the needs of real people."

Since so many are second-guessing the value of Jehovah's laws, we need to fortify our conviction that divine standards are for our benefit.  It is of interests to consider he account where law is first mentioned in the Bible.  At Genesis 26:5, we read God's words:  "Abraham . . .continued to keep his obligations to me, my commands, my statues,and my laws."  Those words were uttered centuries before Jehovah gave a detailed law code to Abraham descendants.   How did God reward Abraham''s obedience, including obedience to His Laws? Jehovah God promised him:  "By means of your seed all nations of the earth will certainly bless themselves."  (Genesis 22:18) Obedience to divine laws is thus closely linked to divine blessing and approval.

One of the psalmists - likely a prince of Judah and a future king-expressed a  feeling that is not usually associated with law.  He exclaimed to God: "How do i love your law!" (Psalm 119:97)   This was not mere emotional outburst.  It was an expression of love for God's will as set out in his law, Jesus Christ, the perfect Son of God, had similar feelings.  Jesus was prophetically described as saying:  "To do your will, O my God, I have delighted, and your law is within my inward parts."  (Psalm 40:8; Hebrews 10:9)  What about us?  Are we convinced of the usefulness and benefits of Jehovah's laws?  What place does obedience to God's laws have in  our worship, in our daily life, in our decision-making,  and in our relationships with others?  To love divine law, we do well to understand why God has the right to formulate and enforce laws.

Next time: DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT - Jehovah-The Rightful Lawgiver

The Watchtower, 2002

Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Secure Now and Forever

Secure Now and Forever

We may all dream of better things for ourselves and our loved ones.  However, the fact that we are imperfect,k live in an imperfect world, and have a limited life span forces us to limit the things we can realistically hope to attain.  A Bible writer explained thousands of years ago:  "I returned to see under the sun that the swift do not  have the race, nor the mighty ones the battle, nor do the wise also have the food, nor do the understanding one also have the riches, nor do even those having knowledge have the favor; because time and unforeseen occurrence befall them all."  -Ecclesiastes 9:11.

Sometimes we become so consumed by the daily grind of life that we forget to look at the larger picture  of who we are and what we really need in order to feel genuinely  secure.  Consider these ancient words of wisdom:  "If you love money, you will never be satisfied; if you long to be rich, you will never get all you  want.  It is useless.  A working man may or may not have enough to eat, but at least he can get a good night's sleep.  A rich man, however, has so much that he stays awake worrying."  (Ecclesiastes  5:10, 12, Today's English Version) Yes, where does your security lie?

If your situation is somewhat similar to Josue's unrealistic  dream, can you change your plans?  Those who really love you  will be supportive, just as Josue's family and friends in the Christian congregation were.  You may find greater security in humble surroundings together with those who love you than in the city with those who may try to take advantage of you. 

If you already have an abundance, as did Liz and her husband, can you adjust your life-style to channel more time and energy into helping people, whether rich or poor, to learn about the Kingdom, the means of gaining real security? 

If you have  been climbing the social or corporate ladder, you might want to reflect honestly on what is motivating you. Granted some conveniences at your disposal may add enjoyment to life.  Yet, are you able to keep the Kingdom -the true means of attaining permanent security - in focus?   Recall Jesus' words:  "There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving."  (Acts 20:35)  If you involve yourself in the various activities in the Christina congregation, you will experience rewarding security.    

Those putting full trust in Jehovah and his Kingdom thrive in a heartwarming security now and look forward to complete security in the future.  The psalmist said:  "I have placed Jehovah in front of me constantly.  Because he is at my right hand, I shall not be made to totter.  Therefore my heart does rejoice, and my glory is inclined to be joyful.  Also, my own flesh will reside in security." -Psalm 16:8, 9,

Next time: DIVINE LAWS ARE FOR OUR BENEFIT

The Watchtower, 2002

Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Told In Benin

This story has been told thousands of times with may variations.  Recently, one senior villager in Benin, West Africa, related the following version to some younger ones.
Remember when you read this article, go back and read the previous.



The fisherman returns home in his pirogue and is met by a foreign expert serving in this developing country.  The expert asks the fisherman why he is back so early.  He replies that he could have stayed out longer but that he had caught enough to care for his family. 

"And now, what do you do with all your time anyway?"  The expert asks.

The fisherman responds:  "Well, I do a little fishing. I play with my children. We all have a siesta when it gets hot.  In the evening, we have supper together. Later, I get together with my friends for some music, and so on." 

The expert interrupts: "Look, I have a university degree and have studied these matters.  I want to help you. You should stay out fishing longer. You would earn more and soon be able to purchase a bigger boat than this pirogue. With a bigger boat, you would earn still more and soon be able to build up a fleet of trawlers."  "And then?"  

 The fisherman inquires.   Then instead of selling fish through a middleman, you could negotiate directly with the factory or even start your own fish-processing plant.  You would be able to leave your village and move to Cotonou, or Paris, or New York and run the whole thing from there.  You could even consider putting your business on the stock market and earn millions." 
"How long would that all take?"  the fisherman asks. "Perhaps 15 to 20 years,"  the experts answers.   

"And then?" the fisherman continues.     

"That is when life gets interesting,"  the expert explains.  "Then you could retire. You could move away from the hustle and bustle of it all to some remote village." "And what then?"  (Here it comes, the lack of logic and common sense and the mere greediness of the expert) asks the fisherman.

Then  you do a little fishing, play with your children, (this is really stupid-the kids would be too big to play with. No logic, no common sense here. The man doesn't have to wait 15-20 years!)  have a siesta when it gets hot, have supper with the family, and get together with friends for some music."  

 Note:  This expert may be good in some things, but being logical and having common sense is not one of them. He is only showing his greed. Some people   aren't always wanting just money, money, money, they  are not greedy. They    just want to enjoy their life,family and friends now. Why should they wait that long to do so? Anything could go wrong by that time.  We are not guaranteed another day. We are on this earth temporary and we have to live a really good, wholesome and spiritual life now.  We also need to do what pleases Jehovah God and work for him.  Then and only then  will we be able to live life eternal on Paradise earth.



Next time: Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Secure Now and Forever

The Watchtower, 2002

Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Position - Where Are You Going?

If you are tempted to feel that climbing the social ladder is the way to security, ask yourself:  'Who on the ladder is actually at the point of real security?  How much higher must I climb to attain it?' A successful career may give you a false sense of security, leading to disappointment or worse, a disastrous fall.

Actual experiences show that a good name with God affords much more security than a name with man.  Only Jehovah can grant humans the gift of life eternal.  That involves writing our name, not in some social directory, but in God's book of life. -Exodus 32:32; Revelation 3:5.

When you put wishful thinking aside, how do you appraise your present situation, and what can you honestly expect from the future?  No one has everything.  As one wise Christian put it, "I had to learn that life is never this AND that but this OR that."  (on the next blog read about "Told in Benin."  

Now answer these questions:  What is an important destination or goal, in my life?  What is the most direct route to get there? Could it be that I am on a long, insecure detour and that what I really want and what is realistically possible can be attained by a less complicated route?

After giving counsel on the relative value of material things compared  with the value of spiritual things, Jesus said to keep the eye "simple," or "in focus."  (Matthew 6:22)   He made clear that the main things in life are spiritual values and goals that center on God's name and on his Kingdom. (Matthew 6:9, 10) Other things are less important or, as it were, out of focus.

Many cameras today focus automatically on things both far and near. Are you inclined to be like that?  is almost everything that you view "in focus" -that is, important, desirable and, with some wishful thinking, attainable?  If this is even partially so, the important object for Christians, the Kingdom can easily be lost in a clutter of other images, each vying for your attention.   Jesus' strong admonition was:  "Keep on, then, seeking first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be added to you." -Matthew 6:33. 

Next time:Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever -"Told In Benin"

The Watcht0wer, 2002

Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Money - What Is the Real Problem

Will money give you a feeling of security? Liz from Canada states:  "As a young person, I believed that money brought freedom from worry."  She fell in love with a man who was financially secure.  Soon they married.  Did she feel secure?  Liz continues:  "When I married, we had a beautiful home and two cars, and our financial situation allowed us freedom to enjoy virtually anything in the way of material things, travel, and recreation.  Oddly enough, I still worry about  money." She explains why:  "We had so much to lose.  It seems that the more you have, the less secure you feel.  Money did not bring freedom from worry or anxiety." 

If you feel that you do not have enough money to be secure, ask yourself,  'What is the real problem?  Is it really a lack of money, or is it a lack of wise money management?'  Reflecting on her past, Liz says:  "I now realize that the source of my family's problems when i was a child was poor money management.  We purchased on credit, and therefore we always had a debt  hanging over our heads.  This brought anxiety."

Today, however, Liz and her husband feel much more secure, although they have less money.  When they learned the truth of God's Word, they stopped listening to enticing claims about money and began listening to God's wisdom, including these words:  "As for the one listening to me, he will reside in security and be undisturbed from dread of calamity."  (Proverbs 1:33)  They wanted their life to have more meaning than a large bank account could give.  Now as missionaries in a distant land, Liz and her husband are teaching rich and poor people alike that Jehovah God will soon bring about genuine security earth wide.  This activity provides deep satisfaction and stability that stem from a superior purpose and surpassing values, not from financial gain.

Remember this basic truth: Being rich with God is far more valuable than having material riches.  Throughout the Sacred Scriptures, the emphasis is placed, not on possessing material riches, but on having a good standing with Jehovah, one that we can maintain by continually doing the divine will in faith.  Christ Jesus encouraged us to be "rich toward God" and to store up; "treasure in the heavens." -Luke 12:21, 33.

Next time: Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Position - Where Are You Going?

The Watchtower, 2002

Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Location -Big City or Big Dreams?

Location -Big City or Big Dreams

In developing countries, the lure of the big city is promoted by advertising that may tempt eager imaginations. Organizations behind such advertising are not necessarily interested in your security but, rather in their sales.  They gloss over problems of the real world with scenes of success depicting security.  Thus, security becomes associated with their advertised product and the big city.

Consider the following example.  Officials in one West African city put up billboards vividly illustrating that smoking is a reality no different from burning up hard earned money.   That was part of a campaign to warn its citizens against smoking.  Cigarette manufacturers and sellers countered by posting cleverly designed billboards that showed smokers in eye-appealing scenes  of happiness and success.  In addition , one cigarette company dressed  up some of its employees in fancy uniforms and flashy baseball caps to distribute cigarettes to young people on the street, encouraging each one to "try it."  Many of these young ones had come from villages and, naive to slick advertising schemes, fell for this invitation.  They became addicted smokers.  The young villagers had come to the big city to seek security in order to support their families or to get ahead financially.  Instead, they were burning much of the money they could have used for better purposes. 

Advertisements portraying a successful life in the big  city do not always originate with  merchants.   They may come from the mouths of people who have moved to the big city and who are embarrassed to appear to be failures, they brag about suppose wealth and achievements they have found in the city.  A closer examinati9on of their claimed status, however, reveals that their present life-style is not an improvement over their former village life; they are struggling financially like most other city dwellers.

It is especially in large cities that the newly arrived security seekers fall prey to the unscrupulous. Why?  By and large, they have not had time to develop close friendships and are not far away from family members.  So they have no advisers who might help them to avoid the pitfalls of materialistic urban living. 

Josue' did not fall into the trap of smoking.  Furthermore, he came to realize that the demands of the city life were far beyond his capacity to handle successfully.  In his case,m at best, the only thing that the city could really offer him was big unfulfilled dreams.  He recognized that he did not have genuine security in the city;  he just did not belong there.  Feelings of emptiness , inferiority  and failure took over, and he eventually swallowed his pride and returned to the village.

He had been fearful that he would be mocked.  Instead, his family and real friends welcomed him home with open arms.  Thanks to the warmth of his family, the familiar surroundings of the village , and the love of his friends in the Christian congregation, he soon felt much more secure than in the big city, where the dreams of many turn into nightmares.  To his surprise, working hard with his father in the fields actually brought him and his family a higher income than his net gain would have been in the city.

Next time: Feeling Secure Now Being Secure Forever - Money -What Is the Real Problem?

The Watchtower, 2002