FIND JOY IN YOUR WORSHIP

Personal Bible study and prayer are acts of worship that we may carry out in private.  Now, however, let us consider an aspect of worship that we carry out publicly, speaking to others about our beliefs.  Have you already shared some Bible truths with others?  If so, you have enjoyed a wonderful privilege. (Luke 1:74) When we share the truths we have learned about Jehovah God, we are taking up a very important assignment given to all true Christians-that of preaching the good news of God's Kingdom. -Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20.

The apostle Paul viewed his ministry as something precious, calling it a treasure.  (2 Corinthians 4:7) Talking to people about Jehovah God and his purposes is the best work you could do.  It is service to the best Master, and it brings the best benefits possible.   By engaging in this activity, you are helping honesthearted people to draw close to our heavenly Father and to get  on the road to everlasting life! What work could be more satisfying!  Furthermore, witnessing about Jehovah and his Word increases your own faith and strengthens your love for him. And Jehovah appreciates your efforts.  (Hebrews 6:10)   Staying busy in such work helps you to remain in God's love. -1 Corinthians 15:58. 

It is important to remember that the Kingdom -preaching work is urgent.  The Bible says: "Preach the word, be at it urgently."  (2 Timothy 4:2)  Why is doing this so urgent today?  God's Word tells us:  "The great day of Jehovah is near.  it is near, and there is a hurrying of it very much."  (Zephaniah 1:14) Yes, the time is coming quickly when Jehovah will bring this whole system of things to its end.  People need to be warned! They need to know tha tnow is the time to choose JEhovah as their Sovereign.  The end "will not be late." -Habakkuk 2:3. 

Jehovah wants us to worship him publicly in association with true Christians.  That  is why his Word says:  "Let us consider one another to incite to love and fine works, not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together, as some have the custom, but encouraging one another, and all the more so as you behold the day drawing near,"  (Hebrews 10:24, 25) When we gather with fellow believers at Christian meetings, we have a wonderful opportunity to praise and worship our beloved God.  We also build one another up and encourage one another. 

As we associated with other worshipers of Jehovah, we strengthen the bonds of love  and friendship in the congregation.  It is important that we look for the good in one another, as Jehovah looks for the good in us.  Do not expect perfection from your fellow believers.  Remember that all are at different stages of spiritual growth  and that every one of us makes mistakes.  (Colossians 3:13)  Seek to build close friendships with those who love Jehovah intensely, and you will find yourself growing spiritually. Yes, worshiping Jehovah with your spiritual brothers and sisters will help you to remain  in God's love.  How does Jehovah reward those who worship; him faithfully and thus remain in his love?  

Next time: REACH OUT FOR "THE REAL LIFE" 

From the Book: What Does the Bible Really Teach? 2005 and 2006