Do Not Become Discouraged

If we do not receive a certain privilege of service, we need not conclude that Jehovah has move love  for those who do not enjoy it or that he is holding back good from us. Surely, we should not enviously assume that these others  have undeservedly obtained their privileges through human favoritism instead of theocratic appointment. Brooding over such ideas may lead to jealousy, contention, and even to our giving up altogether. -1 Corinthians 3:3; James 3:14-16. 

Laura mentioned at the outset, did not give up. She eventually came to grips with her feelings of anger and  jealousy. Laura repeatedly prayed to God for help to overcome her negative reaction to her being unable to pioneer.  She also sought assistance from qualified men in the congregation and felt reassured of God's love.  "Jehovah gave me peace of mind," she said.  "While my husband  and I can't pioneer  now,we cherish the time when we did and draw strength from experiences that we had. We also help our grown son in his pioneering."  Being content, Laura is not able to "rejoice with people who rejoice" in their pioneer service. -Romans 12:15.

Next time: Set Attainable Goals

From the Watchtower magazine, 1997