Sound Knowledge for Young People

What has helped vandals and others to change their personality?  Although it may seem incredible to some educators and parents, the Bible provides excellent and up to date guidance. By following it, former vandals have been moved  to obey God's specific law: "You must not follow after the crowd for evil ends." (Exodus 23:2)  Many have been attracted to the truth from God's Word about beliefs and doctrines that they never before understood, and what they have learned  has affected them for the better. (I know it has me)  Consider the experience  of Jose', a youth in Sao Paulo. He was raised believing in the  use of images in worship. (Which means, cross, prayer beads, pictures of Christ, God, the Virgin Mary, Buddha or whatever other statues etc. being used)  When he learned that God has a name, Jehovah, and that He does not approve of image worship, Jose' made changes so as to do what is pleasing in God's eyes. -Exodus 20:4, 5; Psalm 83:18; 1 John 5:21; Revelation 4:1) 

Nelson, rather than having one frustrating experience after another in violent gangs and strikes, found a real hope for the future, and that has give him enormous relief. He says:  "Instead of being rejected by my family because of bad company and a life as a drug addict, Now I am the one who is most respected at home. Often my father asks me to counsel my older brothers. Since I began to study the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses, I have known joy because I now have a purpose in life." And for an urban youth  like Marco-accustomed to living in a violent environment-getting to know that God's Kingdom will make the earth a paradise has indeed been heartwarming. -Revelation 21:3, 4. 

Consider also the case of a former gang member, street brawler, and vandal. Being an orphan with a very sad childhood, Valter was impressed that in the midst of a corrupt, wicked system, God has a people.  They sincerely endeavor to apply Bible principles in their lives,m showing compassion, consideration, and kindness. Valter explains:  "True to Jesus' promise, I now have an enormous family, 'brothers and sisters and mothers and fathers.'  Regarding the future, I look forward to the time when people will live in happiness and unity under God's righteous government." -Mark 10:29, 30; Psalm 37:10. 

Note: These are but  a few who went right, especially when it comes to getting  with Jehovah God. Every teenager, or even younger or older should do this. I guarantee your life will be so much the better for it; and you benefit greatly as well. It is a great gift, honor and a blessing to boot. 

Next time: Something Better Than Protest

From the Watchtower magazine, 1999