Imitate Jesus' Courage and Discernment

IMITATE JESUS' DISCERNMENT

Consider another way that we can imitate Jesus.  In our speech.  In  conversations with fellow believers, we use words that build up rather than tear down.  (Ephesians 4:29) When we talk to others about God's Kingdom, we season our words "with salt." (Colossians 4:6) We try to discern the needs and interests of householders and then choose our words accordingly. We remember that gracious words may open doors-and hearts. In addition, when explaining our beliefs, we try to let the Bible speak for us. Hence, we can cite it as an authority and read from it whenever possible. We recognize  that the Bible's message is far more powerful than anything we could possibly say on our own authority. -Hebrews 4:12. 

In our spirit and attitude. Discernment enables us  to control our spirit, making us "slow to anger." (James 1:19) When others offend us, we try to discern what is behind their words or actions. Such insight can melt anger and help us to "overlook an offense." (Proverbs 19:11) Discernment also helps us to be reasonable. Wee thus try to be realistic in what we expect of our fellow believers, remembering that they may  be facing challenges  that we do not fully  understand. We are willing to listen to their opinions and where appropriate yield to their viewpoint. -Philippians 4:5, 

In our course of life.  As followers of Jesus, we discern that we could have no higher privilege than that of sharing in the work of preaching the good news.  We keep on track by making decisions that enable us to stay focused on our ministry.  We choose to keep spiritual things in first place and maintain ourselves  to the all-important preaching work before the end comes. -Matthew 6:33; 24:14. 

Has it not been delightful to reflect on some of Jesus' appealing qualities?  Imagine how rewarding it would be to make a study of his other qualities and learn how we can be more like him. Let us, then, be determined to follow his steps closely. By so doing, we will stay on course on our journey  to salvation and we will draw closer to Jehovah, the One whom Jesus perfectly imitated. 

Next time: Maintain Your Zeal for the Ministry

From the Watchtower magazine, 2015