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