IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOSEPH

Conclusion of "JEHOVAH CONTINUED WITH JOSEPH"

The two men explained that they were agitated by their vivid and puzzling dreams-and by the fact that they had no interpreter with them.  The Egyptians placed a lot of weight on dreams and depended heavily  on the men who claimed to be able to interpret them. The two men did not know that their dreams had come from Joseph's God, Jehovah. but Joseph knew. He assured them:  "Do not interpretations belong to God?  Relate it [the dream] to me, please."  (Genesis 40:8)  Joseph's words resound today for all sincere students of the Bible. If only every religious person showed the same humility!  We need to be willing to set aside prideful  human thinking and to rely on god as we seek correct interpretations of his word. -1 Thessalonians 2;13; James 4:6. 

The cupbearer went first. He told Joseph of a dream about a vine with three twigs that bore clusters of grapes. The grapes ripened, and the cupbearer squeezed the juice into Pharaoh's cup.  Thanks to  Jehovah, Joseph instantly knew  that the three twigs meant three days; within that time, Pharaoh would restore the cupbearer to his former position.  As relief flooded over the cupbearer's features, Joseph added this request:  "Please show me loyal love and mention me to Pharaoh."  Joseph explained that he had been kidnapped from his home and imprisoned without just cause.  - Genesis 40:9-15.  

Encouraged by the good news the cupbearer had received, the baker asked Joseph the meaning of his own dream in which he had seen three baskets of bread as well as birds eating from one of the baskets on his head. The answer to this riddle was also given to Joseph. But it did not mean good news for the baker. Joseph said:  "This is its interpretation: The three baskets  are three days. Three days from now, Pharaoh will behead you and will hang you on a stake, and the birds will eat your flesh from you."  (Genesis 40:16-19)  Like all of God's faithful servants, Joseph boldly revealed God's messages, both the good news and the news of impending judgment. - Isaiah 61:2. 

Three days later, Joseph's words came true.  Pharaoh held a birthday party-a practice not found among God's people in Bible times-and pronounced judgment  on his two servants.  the baker was executed, just as Joseph had foretold, whereas the cupbearer was restored to his former position. Sadly, though, that neglectful man forgot all about Joseph. -Genesis 40:20-23. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOSEPH - "I NEED NOT BE CONSIDERED!" 

From the Watchtower magazine 

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOSEPH

"JEHOVAH CONTINUED WITH JOSEPH"

Joseph knew that his God, Jehovah, never lost sight of him, and this knowledge surely helped him to endure. Even here in a foreign prison, Jehovah found ways to bless Joseph. Thus, we read:  "Jehovah continued with Joseph and kept showing loyal love to him and granting him favor in the eyes of the chief officer of the prison."  (Genesis 39:21-23) As Joseph continued to to work hard, he kept giving his God a basis for blessing him. How comforting it must have been for him to know that Jehovah  was always with him! 

Did Jehovah intend to let Joseph remain in that prison indefinitely?  Joseph could only guess at the answer, and he surely kept the matter before his God in prayer. As it so often happens, the answer came in a most unexpected way.  One day, there was some commotion in the prison as two new inmates arrived-officers from Pharaoh's  personals staff.  One was the king's chief baker; the other was the chief cupbearer.  - Genesis 40:1-3.

The chief of the guard entrusted Joseph with the care of those two formerly prominent men.  One night they each had a vivid and puzzling dream. When Joseph saw them in the morning, he could tell that something was wrong. So he asked:  "Why are your faces gloomy today?"  (Genesis 40:3-7) Perhaps his kindly manner assured the men that it was safe for them to reveal their troubles. Joseph did not know it, but that conversation would lead to a turning point in his life.  Would there have been any conversation, though, had Joseph not chosen to show  a little kind concern for others?  His choice may move us to ask ourselves, 'Do I express my faith  in God by showing an interest in fellow humans?  

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOSEPH - Conclusion of JEHOVAH CONTINUED WITH JOSEPH 

From the Watchtower magazine 

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOSEPH

"Do Not Interpretations Belong to God?"

JOSEPH walked along the dark corridor, dripping with sweat from his toil in the stifling heat. Outside, the Egyptian sun was baking the prison like a kiln. It seemed at times as if he knew every brick in the place, every crack in every wall.  This was his whole world now. True, he was highly regarded here. Nonetheless, he was a prisoner.

How often he must have cast his thoughts back to his life in the high rocky hills in Hebron, where he had tended his father's flocks!  He was about 17 years old when his father, Jacob, sent him on an errand that took him dozens of miles (km) from home. Such freedom seemed almost unimaginable now. Joseph's  jealous brothers had turned on him with murderous hatred and then sold him as a slave. He was taken down to Egypt, where he first served in the household of Potiphar. Joseph held his master's trust until a false accusation of rape from Potiphar's wife landed him here in prison. -Genesis, chapters 37, 39. 

Joseph was 28 years old now,m with about a decade of slavery and imprisonment behind him.  To put it mildly, his life was not turning out as he had hoped. Would he ever be set free?  Would hie see his dear elderly father again or his beloved younger brother, Benjamin?   How long would he be stuck in this pit?

Have you ever felt as Joseph did? Sometimes life turns out to be a far cry from our youthful hopes. Indeed, painful situations can seem to drag on endlessly, and it can be hard to see a way out or a way to endure. Let us see what we can learn from the faith of Joseph. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOSEPH -"JEHOVAH CONTINUED WITH JOSEPH" 

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK/HOW TO ENJOY HARD WORK

"GO THE EXTRA MILE

In his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said: "If someone in authority compels you into service for a mile, go with him two miles."  (Matthew 5:41) How might you apply the principle behind those words to your own work?  Rather than simply doing the minimum, look for ways to do more than is required.  Set personal goals; challenge yourself to do your work better or faster than expected. Take pride in even the small details of your work. 

When you go the extra mile, you are more likely to enjoy your work. Why?  Because you are in control of your actions. You are giving more because you want to, not because someone forced you to.  (Philemon 14) In this regard, we might recall the principle recorded at  Proverbs 12:24; "The hand of the diligent ones will rule, but idle hands will be put to forced labor."  True, few of us will be put under literal slavery or forced labor. However, a person who does only the bare minimum may feel that he is enslaved, always under the yoke of the demand of others. But the person who goes the extra mile-doing more because he chooses to-feels in control of his life. He remains master over his actions. 

KEEP WORK IN ITS PROPER PLACE

Hard work is admirable, yet we do well to remember that there is more to life than work.  True, the bible encourages diligence.  (Proverbs 13:4)  But it does not encourage becoming a workaholic.  "Better is a handful of rest than two handfuls of hard work and chasing after the wind,"says Ecclesiastes 4:6.  The point? A workaholic may never enjoy the fruitage of his labor if his work consumes all his time and energy. In effect, his work becomes as  pointless as "chasing after the wind." 

The Bible can  help us to cultivate a balanced view of work. Although it says we should apply  ourselves to our work, it also advises us to "make sure of the more important things." (Philippians 1:10)  What are the more important things?  These include spending time with family and friends. Even more important are spiritual activities, such as reading God's Word and meditating on it.  

Those who keep  their life balanced are likely to enjoy their work even more. "One of my former employers is a great example of someone with a balance work ethic," says William, quoted earlier.  "He works hard, and he has a good rapport with his clients because of the quality of his work. But at the end of the day, when the job is done, he knows how to leave his work behind and focus on his family and his worship. And you know what?  He's one of the happiest people I know!" 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOSEPH -"Do Not Interpretations Belong to God?" 

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK/HOW TO ENJOY HARD WORK

Members of our household.  When a family head works hard to provide for members of his household, he benefits them in at least two ways. First, he makes sure that they have the physical necessities of life-food, clothing, and shelter. He thus fulfills God-given responsibility to "provide for those who are his own."  (1 Timothy 5:8)  Second, a diligent bread winner teaches by example the importance of hard work.  "My father is a great example of someone who has a good work ethic," says Shane, quoted in the preceding article. "He is an honest man who has worked hard his whole life, the majority of it as a carpenter. From his example, I've learned the value of working with your hands, building things that will have practical use for other people."

Those in need. The apostle Paul advised Christians to "do hard work . . .so that [they] may have something to share with someone in need."  (Ephesians 4:28) Indeed, when we work hard to provide for ourselves and our family, we may also be in a position  to help those who are less fortunate.  (Proverbs 3:27)  So hard work can enable us to experience the greater happiness of giving. 

Next time: HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK/HOW TO ENJOY HARD WORK - GO THE EXTRA MILE

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK/HOW TO ENJOY HARD WORK

APPLY YOURSELF TO YOUR WORK

The Bible speaks highly of the man who is "skillful at his work" and the woman who  "delights to work with her hands."  (Proverbs 22:29; 31:13)  Of course, a person doe not become skillful automatically.  And a few of us enjoy doing things that we are not good at. Perhaps that is why many do not enjoy their work; they simply have not put forth enough effort to become good at it. 

In reality, a person can learn to enjoy almost any kind of work if he approaches it with the right mind-set-that is, if he focuses on learning how to do the job well.  "When you put you best into a task and see the results, it's very satisfying," says 24-year-old William.  "You never get that feeling from cutting corners or doing only the minimum."

FOCUS ON HOW YOUR WORK BENEFITS OTHERS

Avoid the trap of thinking only about how much money you are earning.  Rather, ask yourself such questions as these:  'Why is this job necessary?  What would happen if it wasn't done-or it wasn't done right?  How does my work benefit others? 

That last questions is especially good to think about, for work is most satisfying when we see how it benefits other people. Jesus himself said:  "There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving." (Acts 20:35)  In addition to those who benefit directly from our services-such as customers and employers-there are others who benefit from our hard work.  These include members of our household and those in need. 

Next time: HOW TO ENJOY OUR WORK/ HOW TO ENJOY HARD WORK - Members of our household 

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK

How to Enjoy Hard Work

"Everyone should eat and drink and find enjoyment for all his hard work.  It is the gift of God."  (Ecclesiastes 3:13) If God wanted us to enjoy our work, is it not logical that he would show us how to find such joy?  (Isaiah 48:17)  Thankfully, he does-through the pages of his Word, the Bible.  Consider the following Bible-based advice for finding satisfaction in your work.

CULTIVATE A POSITIVE VIEW OF WORK

Whether your work is mostly mental, mostly physical or somewhere in between, recognize that "there is benefit in every kind of hard work."  (Proverbs 14:23)  what sort of benefit?  For one thing, hard work helps us to care for our material needs.  True, God promises to provide for the needs of those who sincerely worship him.  (Matthew 6:31, 32) But he also expects us to do our part by diligently trying to earn an honest living. -2 Thessalonians 3:10.

Thus, we can view our work as a means to an end.  Work is an honorable way to care for our responsibilities. "Providing for yourself is an accomplishment," says 25-year-old Joshua.  "If you are able to pay for what you need, then your work is doing what it is suppose to do." 

Moreover, hard work is just that-hard work-even if it seems boring or difficult-we can have the satisfaction of knowing that we held ourselves to a higher standard. we have won a victory over the inclination to take the easy way out. (Proverbs 26:14) In that sense, work brings an intense feeling of satisfaction.   "I love the feeling I have after a long day of work," says Aaron, quoted in the preceding article. "I may be exhausted-and my work might have even gone unnoticed by others-but I know that I've accomplished something." 

Next time: HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK/HOW TO ENJOY HARD WORK-APPLY YOURSELF TO YOUR WORK

From the Watchtower magazine  

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK

HARD WORK -Is It Outdated?

Alex sighs as he lifts another box onto the truck of the moving company he works for.  'Why am I stuck in this dead-end job?'  he asks himself. 'When am I going to hit it big?  My life would be so much better if I didn't have to work!'

Like Alex in this scenario, many today do not enjoy working hard.  "A lot of people think that it's beneath them to do 'menial' work," says an auto mechanic named Aaron.  "Their attitude is:  'I'm only doing this until a better opportunity comes along.' " 

Why do many feel that hard work is not for them? Perhaps they have been influenced  by the media, which often portrays an "ideal" life as one of luxury and ease.   "People think that the harder you have to work to make a living, the less successful you are," says Matthew, a maintenance worker.  A janitor named Shane has noticed the same trend. He says:  "A full day's work for  full days' wage is something that people simply do not do anymore." 

On the other hand, many successful people actually enjoy hard work.   "I think that hard work is extremely rewarding, especially when its directed toward worthwhile goals," says a 25-year-old construction worker named Daniel. Andre, 23, would agree.  "I believe that happiness and hard enjoyment are linked to work," he says.  "Less work and activity is not a venture that will lead them to long-term happiness-only long-term boredom!" 

How have people like Daniel and Andre developed a positive view of hard work?  Simply put, they have applied Bible principles in their life. Far from discouraging hard work, the Bible promotes diligence and perseverance.  But the Bible does more than just tell us to work. It also shows us how to enjoy our work.

Which Bible principles can help you to find satisfaction in your work?  We invite you to consider a few of them, as discussed in the following article. 

Note: Food for thought.  Did you ever stop to think, that if everyone owned their own business so they would not have to work, what would happen? Well, for one, it takes work and money to start a business and  it could take years before it is successful, plus, you have to have good business sense and ready to ride along with the competition.  Also, if everyone owned their own business, where would your customers come from?  If you have any, you would only have the children  as your customers and they would have to be of age.  But someone would have to stay home with the smaller ones. There would be no one to babysit, except for the Grandmothers and Grandfathers, if they are able and not deceased.   So,as to the above, notice I said it take work to start a business and you have to have employees, who do not have their own businesses.    God says in the Bible, that, that is our lot in life, to work and to feel that we have accomplished something to be proud of.  We have  to work to make money to pay rent/mortgages, food, clothing, utilities, medical and transportation.  Anything else is  materialistic. We are basically suppose to live with only the basics so we do not get spoiled and lazy, which is what has happened to the majority in this world, thanks to all the stupid technology that everyone thinks they have to have; to all the dance lessons, tennis lessons, hockey lessons, and anything else that ruins our personality and takes us away from worshipping God.  Think about that! 

Next time: HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK/ HOW TO ENJOY HARD WORK

From the Watchtower magazine 

THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/SUFFERING

Does God care about our suffering?

WHAT PEOPLE SAY 

Some think that God is indifferent to our trials.  For example, on writer cites what he calls God's "apparent lack of mercy or pity in reaction to our suffering." This writer argues that if God exists, he must view humans with "pitiless indifference." 

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS

Far from depicting God as pitiless or indifferent, the Bible teaches that God is deeply moved by our suffering-and that he will soon bring an end to it. Considering three comforting truths found in the Bible. 

God is aware of our suffering.  From the very start of humans suffering, not a single teardrop; has gone unnoticed by Jehovah,  whose "watchful eyes" see everything.  (Psalm 11:4; 56:8)  For example, when his worshippers in ancient times were being oppressed, God said:  "I have certainly seen the affliction of my people." But was he only vaguely aware of their pain?  No, for he added:  "I well know the ;pains they suffer." (Exodus 3:7) Many people have found comfort in that truth alone-the thought that God is aware of everything we suffer, even the trials that others may not be aware of fully understand. -Psalm 31:7; Proverbs 14:10. 

God feels for us when we suffer.  Jehovah God is not only aware of human suffering but also deeply moved by it.  For example, God was sincerely troubled when his ancient worshippers  faced trials.  "During all their distress it was distressing to him," says the Bible.  (Isaiah 63:9) Although God is vastly superior to humans, he feels empathy for those who suffer-as if their pain were in his heart! Indeed,  "Jehovah is very compassionate and merciful." (James 5:11) Additionally, Jehovah helps us to bear our suffering. -Philippians 4:12, 13. 

God will end all human suffering.  According to the Bible, God will bring an end to the suffering of every human on the planet. By means of his heavenly Kingdom, Jehovah will drastically change the human condition-for the better.  Regarding that time, the Bible promises that God "will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.  The former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4) What about those who have already died?  God will bring them back to life here on earth sot hat they too can enjoy life free from suffering.  (John 5:28, 29) Will anyone be plagued  by painful memories of past suffering?  No, for Jehovah promises:  "The former things will not be called to mind,m nor will they come up into the heart." -Isaiah 65:17. 

Next time: HOW TO ENJOY YOUR WORK/HARD WORK-Is It Outdated?

From the Awake! magazine

THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/SUFFERING

SUFFERING

Some people feel that God causes human suffering or that, at the very least, he is indifferent to it. But is that what the Bible teaches?  You might be surprised at the answer. 

Does God cause us to suffer?

WHAT PEOPLE SAY Some say that everything that happens is God's will. Thus, they believe that God causes us to suffer.When natural disasters strike, for instance, they think that these events are God's way of punishing those who have sinned.

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS The Bible clearly teaches that God does not cause us to suffer. For example, the Bible says that when we go through trials, it would a mistake to say:  "I am being tried by God. Why? Because "with evil things God cannot be tried, nor does he himself try anyone."  (James 1:13) In other words, God never causes the trials we face of the suffering that follows. To do so would be wicked, but "God does not act wickedly. - Job 34:12. 

If God does not cause us to suffer, then who or what does? Sadly, humans are often victimized  by  other humans.  (Ecclesiastes 8:9) Additionally, we may face calamities because of "unexpected events" -That is, because of simply being in the wrong place at the wrong time. (Ecclesiastes 9:11) The Bible teaches that ultimately "the ruler of the world is  lying in the power of the wicked one."  (John 12:31; 1 John 5:19)  It is Satan-not God-who causes people to suffer. 

Next time: THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/SUFFERING - Does God care about our suffering?

From the Awake!  magazine 

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE

How to Tame Your Temper

WHAT YOU CAN DO


Make a goal. Instead of saying, "That's just the way I am," strive to improve within a specified time period-perhaps six months. During that period, keep a record of your progress. Each time you lose your temper, write down (1) what happened, (2) how you reacted, and  (3) how could have reacted better-and why.  Then make it your goal to use that better reaction the next time your are provoked.  Tip: Keep track of your successes too!  Write down how good you feel after showing self-control.  -Bible principle: Colossians 3:8.

Wait before reacting.  When someone or something angers you, do not say the first thing that comes to your mind. Instead, wait. Take a deep breath if necessary.  "When I breathe," says 15-year-old Erik, "it gives me time to think before I do or say something I will later regret." -Bible principle:  Proverbs 21:23.

Expand your view.  Sometimes you might become angry because you see only one aspect of the issue-the part that affects you. Try to consider the other side of the story.  "Even when people are downright rude," says a young woman named Jessica,  "there's usually an explanation that can me show a little understanding." -Bible principle: Proverbs 19:11.

If necessary, walk away.  The Bible says:  "Before the quarrel breaks out, take your leave." (Proverbs 17:14) As that scripture indicates, sometimes  it is best to simply walk away from a volatile situation.  Then, rather than stewing over the matter and letting your anger build even more, get active.   "I find that exercise can relieve my stress and keep me from losing my temper," says a young woman named Danielle. 

Learn to let go.  The Bible says:  "Be agitated, but do not sin.  Have your say in your heart, . . . and keep silent." (Psalm 4:4) Note that there is nothing wrong with feeling agitated. The question is, What will happen next?  "If you allows others to provoke you," says a young man named Richard,  "it gives them power over you. Why not try to be mature and overlook the matter?" If you do, you will be  controlling your anger rather than letting your anger control you.  

Next time: THE BIBLE'S VIEWPOINT/SUFFERING 

From the Awake! magazine 

HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE

How to Tame Your Temper

THE CHALLENGE

"I screamed at my sister and swung the door so hard that the hook on the back of it went through the wall, the hole was a constant reminder of how childishly I had behaved." -Diane.

"I shouted, 'You're a horrible dad!'  and slammed the door.  But before it closed, I saw the hurt look on my dad's face, and I immediately wanted to go back in time and swallow my words." -Lauren. 

Can you related to Lauren and Diane? If so, this article can help you. 

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Outbursts hurt your reputation.  "I used to think that others just had to accept my bad temper," says Briana, now 21.  "But then I began to notice that people look foolish when they don't control themselves, and it hit me-that's how I appeared to others!" 

The Bible says:  "The one who is quick  to anger acts foolishly." -Proverbs 14:17. 

Your anger could cause people to avoid you.  "When you lose your temper," says 18-year-old Daniel, "you also lose your dignity and the respect of those around you."  Elaine, also 18, would agree. "Displaying a bad temper isn't attractive," she says, "It just makes people scared of you."  

The Bible says:  "Do not keep company with a hot-tempered man or get involved with one disposed to rage." -Proverbs 22:24. 

You can improve:  "You can't always control how a situation makes you feel," says a 15-year-old Sara,  "but you can control how you express  your feelings.  You don't have to explode."

The Bible says:  "The one slow to anger is better than a mighty man, and the one controlling his temper than one conquering a city." -Proverbs 16:32. 

Next time: HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE - WHAT YOU CAN DO

From the Awake! magazine 

HOW DID LIFE BEGIN?

AFTER considering the evidence, many people conclude that life is the product of a superior intelligence. Consider the example of Antony Flew, a professor of philosophy who at one time was a leading advocate of atheism. When he learned about the staggering complexity of life and the physical laws of the  universe, Flew changed his opinion. Citing an ancient approach to reasoning, he wrote:  "We must follow the argument wherever it leads."  For professor Flew, the evidence pointed to the existence of a Creator.

Gerard, mentioned earlier in this series of articles, came to a similar conclusion. Despite his advanced education and his career in entomology, he said:  "I saw no proof that life arose spontaneously from non-living matter. The order and complexity  of living things convinced me that there has to be an Organizer and Designer."

Just as a person can learn about an artist by examining his artwork, Gerard came to discern the Creator's qualities by studying the natural world. Gerard also took time to consider a book attributed to the Creator-the Bible.  (2 Timothy 3:16)  There he found satisfying answers to questions about mankind's  past and practical solutions to the problems facing people today.  He thus became convinced that the Bible was also  the product of a superior mind.  

As Gerard found, the Bible's answers are worth considering. We encourage you to examine them for yourself. 

Next time:HELP FOR THE FAMILY/YOUNG PEOPLE-How to Tame Your Temper

From the Awake! magazine 

HOW DID LIFE BEGIN?

2. How Did Living Things Develop?

Scientists have discovered within each cell intricate molecular  machine composed of protein molecules that cooperate to perform complex tasks. These tasks include transporting and converting nutrients into energy, repairing parts of the cell, and conveying messages throughout the cell.  Could random mutations and natural selection account for the assembling and functioning of such sophisticated components?  Many find that concept difficult to accept. 

Animals and humans develop from a single fertilized egg, inside the embryo, cells multiply and eventually specialize, taking on different shapes and functions to form distinct parts of the body. Evolution cannot explain how each cell "knows" what to become and where it should move within the organism. 

Scientists now realize that for one kind of animal to develop  into another kind of animal would require that changes take place within the cell, at the molecular level.  Since scientists cannot demonstrate  how evolution can produce without the "simplest" cell, is it plausible that random mutations and natural selection could be responsible for the different kinds of animals on the planet?  Regarding the structure of animals, Michael Behe, professor of biological sciences, says that while research "has revealed unexpected, stunning complexity, no progress at all has been made. in understanding how that complexity could evolve by unintelligent processes." 

Human beings are conscious and self-aware, have the ability to think and reason,m and possess moral qualities, such as generosity, self-sacrifice, and a sense of right and wrong. Random mutations and natural selection cannot explain the existence of these unique qualities  of the human mind. 

CONCLUSION:  While many insist that an evolutionary origin of life is an indisputable fact, others are not satisfied with the answers that evolution provides regarding how life began and how life developed. 

Next time: HOW DID LIFE BEGIN?/An Answer Worth Considering 

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW DID LIFE BEGIN?

How would you complete the following sentence?

LIFE IS THE RESULT OF _____________   A. EVOLUTION
       
                                                                                            B. CREATION



SOME might assume that a scientifically-minded person would pick "evolution" and that a religious person would pick "creation."  But not always.  Rama Singh, professor of biology at Canada's McMaster University, says:  "The opposition to evolution goes beyond religious fundamentalism and includes  a great many people from educated sections of the population."

Consider Gerard, a professor of entomology who was taught evolution at college.  "When I took tests," he says, "I would give the professors the answers they wanted-but I did not believe it."   Why is it that even some scientifically-minded people have trouble accepting evolution as the origin of life?  To answer that, consider two questions that baffle many researchers:  (1) How did life get its start?  and(2) How did living things develop? 

1. How Did Life Gets Its Start?

Scientists can only speculate about what conditions on earth were like billions of years ago. they have differing views about where life began-for instance, whether within a volcano or under the ocean floor. Another belief is that life's building blocks first formed elsewhere in the universe and arrived here embedded in meteors. But that does not answer the question of how life began; it just pushes the issue farther into space. 

Scientist speculate about the existence of molecules that precede genetic material as we know it today.  These molecules are supposedly  more likely to arise spontaneously from inert material and are self-replicating. Yet, science has found no evidence that such molecules ever existed, nor have scientists been able to create any such molecule in a laboratory. 

Living things are unique in the way they store and process information. Cells convey, interpret, and carry out instructions contained within their genetic code. Some scientists liken the genetic code to computer software and the chemical structure of the cell to computer hardware. But evolution cannot explain the source of the information.

Protein molecules are necessary for the function of a cell. A typical protein molecule consists of hundreds of amino acids strung together in a specific sequence. Additionally, the protein molecule must fold into a specific three-dimensional shape for it to be useful.  Some scientists conclude that the odds of even one protein molecule forming spontaneously are extremely improbable.  "Since a functioning cell requires thousands of different proteins," writes physicist Paul Davies,  "it is not credible to suppose they formed by chance alone." 

CONCLUSION: After decades of research in virtually all branches of science, the fact remains that life comes only from preexisting life. 


Next  time: HOW DID LIFE BEGIN?/2. How Did Living Things Develop?

From the Awake! magazine 

Conclusion of:BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE?

Vercillo and Duprey in this issue of the Journal refer to In re Osbourne to highlight the interest in ensuring the security of dependents, but how was the case resolved?  It concerned a severely injured father of two minor children.  the court determined that if he died, relatives would materially and spiritually care  for his children.  So, as in other recent cases, the court found no compelling state interest to justify overriding the patient's choice of treatment; judicial intervention to authorize treatment deeply objectionable  him was unwarranted.  With alternative treatment the patient recovered and continued to care for his family. 

Is it not true that the vast majority of cases physicians have confronted, or likely will, can be managed without blood?  What we studied and know best has to do with medical problems, yet patients are human beings whose individual values and goals cannot be ignored. They know best about their own priorities, their own morals and conscience, which give life meaning for them.   

Respecting the religious consciences of Witness patients may challenge our skills. But as we meet this challenge, we underscore valuable liberties that all of us cherish. As John Stuart Mill aptly wrote:  "No society in which these liberties are not, on the whole, respected, is free, whatever may be its form of government . .  . Each is the proper guardian of his own health, whether bodily, or mental and spiritual.   Mankind are greater gainers by suffering each other to live as seems good to themselves, than by compelling each to live as seems good to the rest." 

Next time: HOW DID LIE BEGIN? 

From the Watchtower magazine 

Continue with: BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE?

When a patient is a Jehovah's Witness, beyond the matter of choice, conscience comes into the picture. One cannot think only of the physician's conscience. What of the patient's?  Jehovah's Witnesses view life as God's gift represented by blood.  They believe the Bible's command that Christians must "abstain from blood"  (Acts 15:28, 29).  Hence, if a physician paternalistically  violated  such patient's  deep and long-held religious convictions, the result could be tragic. Pope John Paul II has observed that forcing someone to violate his conscience "is the most painful blow inflicted to human dignity.  In a certain sense, it is worse than inflicting physical death, or killing."

While Jehovah's Witnesses refuse blood for religious reasons, more and more non-Witness patients are choosing to avoid blood because of risks such as AIDS, non-A, non-B hepatitis, and immunologic reactions. We may present to them our views as to whether such risks seem minor compared to the benefits. But, as the American Medical Association points out, the patient is "the final arbiter as to whether he will take  his chances with the treatment or operation recommended by the doctor or risk living without it. Such is the natural right of the individual, which the law recognizes. 

Related to this, Macklin brought up the risk/benefit issue regarding a Witness "who risked bleeding to death without a transfusion."  A medical student said:  "His thought processes were intact. What do you do when religious beliefs are against the only  source of treatment?"  Macklin reasoned:  "We may believe very strongly this man is making a mistake. But Jehovah's Witnesses believe that to be transfused . .  . [may] result in eternal damnation.  We are trained to do risk-benefit analysis in medicine but if you  weight eternal damnation against remaining life on earth, the analysis assumes a different angle."  

Next time: Conclusion of: BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE?

From the Watchtower magazine 

Continue with: BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE?

While physicians may voice concerns about ethics or liability, courts have stressed the supremacy of patient choice.  The New York Court of Appeals stated that "the patient's right to determine the course of his own treatment [is] paramount . . . [A] doctor cannot be held to have violated his legal or professional responsibilities when he honors the right of the competent adult patient to decline medical treatment."  That court has also observed that "the ethical integrity of the medical profession, while important, cannot outweigh the fundamental individual rights here asserted. It is the needs and desires of the individual, not the requirements  of the institution, that are paramount."  

When a Witness refuses blood, physicians may feel pangs of conscience at the prospect of doing what seems to be less than the maximum.  What the Witness is asking conscientious doctors  to do, though, is to provide the best alternative care possible under the circumstances.  We often must alter our therapy to accommodate circumstances, such as hypertension, severe allergy to antibiotics, or the unavailability of certain costly equipment.  With the  Witness patient, physicians are asked to manage the medical or surgical problem in harmony with the patient's choice and conscience, his moral/religious decision to abstain from blood.  

Numerous reports of major surgery on Witness patients show  that many physicians can, in good conscience and with success, accommodate the request not to employ blood.  For example, in 1981, Cooley reviewed 1,026 cardiovascular operations, 22% to minors.  He determined "that the risk of surgery in patient's of the Jehovah's Witness group has not been substantially higher than for others."  Kambouris reported on major operations on Witnesses, some of whom had been "denied surgically needed surgical treatment because of their refusal to accept blood."  He said:  "All patients received pre-treatment  assurances that their religious beliefs would be respected, regardless of the circumstances in the operating room.  There were no untoward effects of this policy." 

Next time: Continue with: BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE?

From the Watchtower magazine 

BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE?/by J. Lowell Dixon, M.D.

PHYSICIANS are committed to applying their knowledge, skills, and experience in fighting disease and death. Yet, what if a patients  refuses a  recommended treatment?  This will likely occur if the patient is a Jehovah's Witness and the treatment is blood, packed red blood cells, plasma, or platelets.

When it comes to the use of blood, a physician may feel that a patient's choice of non-blood treatment will tie the hands of dedicated  medical personnel. Still, one must  not forget that patients other than Jehovah's Witnesses often choose not to follow their doctor's  recommendations. According to Appelbaum and Roth, 19% of patients at teaching hospitals refused at lease one treatment or procedure, even though 15% of such refusals "were potentially life endangering." 

The general view that "the doctor knows best" causes most patients to defer to their doctor's skill and knowledge. But how subtly dangerous it would be for a physician to proceed as if this phrase were a scientific fact and to treat patients accordingly. True, our medical training, licensing, and experience give us noteworthy privileges in the medical arena. Our patients, though have rights. And, as we are likely aware, the law (even the Constitution) gives greater weight to rights.  

On the walls of most hospitals, one sees displayed the "Patients Bill of Rights."  One of these rights if informed consent, which might more accurately be called informed choice. After the patient is informed of the potential  result of various treatments (or of non-treatment), it is  his choice what will submit to.  At Albert Einstein Hospital in the Bronx, New York, a draft policy on blood transfusion and Jehovah's Witnesses stated:  "Any adult patient who is not incapacitated has the right to refuse treatment no matter how detrimental such a refusal may be to his health."  

Next time: BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE? 

From the Watchtower magazine 

JEHOVAH''S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE

THE PHYSICIAN'S CHALLENGE

Understandably, caring for Jehovah's Witnesses might seem to pose a dilemma for the physician dedicated to preserving life and health by employing all the techniques at his disposal. Editorially prefacing a series of articles about major surgery on Witnesses, Harvey admitted,  "I do find annoying those beliefs that may interfere with my work."  But, he added:  "Perhaps we too easily forget that surgery is a craft dependent upon the personal technique of the individuals.  Technique can be improved.  

Professor Bolooki took note of a disturbing report that one of the busiest trauma hospitals in Dade County, Florida had  a "
blanket policy of refusing to treat" Witnesses.  He pointed out that "most surgical procedures in this group of patients are associated  with less risk than usual."  He added:  "Although the surgeons may feel that they are deprived of an instrument of modern medicine . . . I am convinced that by operating on these patients they will learn a great deal." 

Rather than consider the Witness patient a problem, more and more physicians accept the situation as a medical challenge. In meeting the challenge they have developed a standard of practice for this group of patients that is accepted at numerous medical centers around the country. These physicians are at the same time providing care that is best for the patient's total good.  As Gardner et al observe: "Who would benefit  if the patient's corporal malady is cured but the spiritual life with God, as he sees it, is compromised, which leads to a life that is meaningless and perhaps worse than death itself."

Witnesses recognize that, medically, their  firmly held conviction appears to add a degree of risks and may complicate their care.  Accordingly, they generally manifest unusual appreciation for the care they receive.  In addition to having the vital elements of deep faith and an intense will to live, they gladly cooperate  with physicians and medical staff. Thus, both patient and physicians  are united in facing this unique challenge.  

Next time: BLOOD: WHOSE CHOICE AND WHOSE CONSCIENCE?/by J.Lowell Dixon, MD

From the Watchtower magazine 

JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE

LEGAL CONCERNS AND MINORS

Witnesses readily sign the American Medical Association form relieving physicians and hospitals of liability, and most Witnesses carry a dated, witness Medical Alert card prepared in consultation with medical and legal authorities. These documents are binding on the patient (or his estate) and offer protection to physicians, for Justin Warren Burger held that malpractice proceeding "would appear unsupported" where such a waiver had been signed. Also, commenting on this is an analysis of "compulsory medical treatment and religious freedom," Paris wrote:  "One commentator who surveyed the literature reported, 'I have been able to find any authority for the statement that the physician  would incur . . . criminal . .  .liability by his failure to force a transfusion on an unwilling patient.'  The risk seems more the product of a fertile legal mind than a realistic possibility." 

Care of minors presents the greatest concern, often resulting in legal action against patients under child-neglect statutes. But such actions are questioned  by many physicians and attorneys familiar with  Witness cases, who believe that Witness parents seek good medical  care for their children. Not desirous of shirking their parental responsibility or of shifting  it to a judge or other third party, Witnesses urge that consideration be given to the family 's religious tenets.  Dr. A.D. Kelly, former Secretary of the Canadian Medical Association, wrote that "parents of minors and the next of kin of unconscious patients possess the  right to interpret the will of the patient. . . . I do not admire the proceedings of a moot court assembled at 2:00 AM to remove a child from his parent's custody."

It is axiomatic that parents have a voice in the care of their children, such as when the risk-benefit potentials of surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy are faced.   For moral reasons that go beyond the issue of transfusion, Witness parents ask that therapies be used that are not religiously prohibited.  This accords with the medical tenet of treating "the whole person," not overlooking the possible lasting psychosocial damage of an invasive procedure that violates a family's fundamental beliefs.  Often, large centers around the country having experience with Witnesses now accept patient transfers from institutions unwilling to treat Witnesses, even pediatric cases.  

Next time: JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE-THE PHYSICIAN'S CHALLENGE 

From the Watchtower magazine 

JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE

MAJOR SURGERY POSSIBLE

Although surgeons have often declined to treat Witnesses because their stand on the use of blood products seemed to "tie the doctor's hands," many physicians have now chosen to view the situation as only one more complication challenging their skill.  Since Witnesses do not object to colloid or crystalloid replacement fluids, nor to electrocautery, hypotensive anesthesia, or hypothermia, these have been employed successfully.  Current and future applications of hetastarch, large-dose interavenous iron dextran injections, and the "sonic scalpel" are promising and not religiously objectionable. Also, if a recently developed fluorinated blood substitute (Flusol-DA) proves to be safe and effective, its use will not conflict with Witness beliefs. 

In 1977, Ott and Cooley reported on 542 cardiovascular operations performed on Witnesses without transfusing blood and concluded  that this procedure can be done "with an acceptably low risk."  In response to our request, Cooley recently did  a statistical review of 1,026 operations. 22% on minors, and determined "that the risk of surgery in patients of the Jehovah's Witnesses group has not been substantially higher than for others."  Similarly, Michael E. De Bakey, MD, communicated "that in the great majority of situations [involving Witnesses] the risk of operation without the use of blood transfusions is no greater that in those patients on whom we use blood transfusions" [personal communication, March 1981]. The literature also records successful major urologic and orthopedic surgery. G. Dean MacEwen, MD, and J. Richard Bowen, MD, write that posterior spinal fusion "has been successfully accomplished for 20 [Witnesses] minors" (unpublished data, August 1981). They add:  "The surgeon needs to establish the philosophy of respect for a patient's right to refuse a blood transfusion but still perform surgical procedures in a manner that allows safety to the patient."

Herbsman reports success in cases, including some involving youths,"with massive traumatic blood loss."  He admits that "Witnesses are somewhat at a disadvantage when it comes to blood requirements. Nevertheless it's also quite clear that we do have alternatives to blood replacement." Observing that many surgeons have felt restrained from accepting Witnesses as patients out of "fear of legal consequences," he shows that this is not a valid concern. 

Next time: JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE -LEGAL CONCERNS AND MINORS 

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE

WITNESS POSITION ON THERAPY

Jehovah's Witnesses accept medical and surgical treatment. In fact, scores of them are physicians, even surgeons. But Witnesses are deeply religious people who believe  that blood transfusion is forbidden for them by God's Word/Biblical passages such as:  "Only flesh with it soul-its blood-you must not eat" (Genesis 9:3-4; Leviticus 17:10-14 ); "[You must] pour its blood out over it with dust"  (Leviticus 17:13-14)' and "Abstain from . . . fornication and from what is strangled and from blood." (Acts 15:19-21). 

While these verses are not stated in medical terms, Witnesses view them as ruling out transfusion of whole blood, packed RBCs, and plasma, as well as WBC and platelet administration.  However, Witnesses' religious understanding does not absolutely  prohibit the use of  components such as albumin, immune globulins, and hemophiliac preparations; each Witness must decide individually if he can accept these. 

Witnesses believe that blood removed from the body should be disposed of, so they do not accept autotransfusion of predeposited blood. Techniques for intrapoperative collection or hemodilution that involve blood storage are objectionable to them. However, many Witnesses permit the use of dialysis and heart-lung equipment (non-blood prime) as well as intraopertive salvage where the extracorporeal circulation is uninterrupted; the physician should consult with the individual patient as to what his conscience dictates.   The Witnesses do not feel that the Bible comments directly on organ transplants; hence, decisions regarding cornea, kidney, or other tissue transplants must be made by the individual Witness.  

Next time: JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE - MAJOR SURGERY POSSIBLE

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE

Physicians face a special challenge in treating Jehovah's Witnesses. Members of this faith have deep religious convictions against accepting homologous or autologous  whole blood, packed RBCs [red blood cells], WBCs [white blood cells], or platelets. Many will allow the use of (non-blood-prime) heart-lung, dialysis, or similar equipment if the extracorporeal circulation is uninterrupted.  Medical personnel need not be concerned  about liability, for Witnesses will take adequate  legal steps to relieve liability as to their informed refusal of blood. They accept non-blood replacement fluids.  Using these and other meticulous techniques, physicians are performing major surgery of all types on adult  and minor Witness patients.  A standard of practice for such patients has thus developed and that accords with the tenet of treating the "whole person."  (JAMA 1981; 46; 2471-2472) 

PHYSICIANS face a growing challenge that is a major health issue. There are over half a million Jehovah's Witnesses in the United States who do not accept blood transfusions.  The number of Witnesses and those associated with them is increasing. Although formerly, many physicians and hospital officials viewed refusal of a transfusion as a legal problem and sought court authorization to proceed as they believed was medically advisable, recent medical literature reveals that a notable change in attitude is occurring.  This may be a result of more surgical experience with patients have very low hemoglobin levels and may also reflect increased awareness of the legal principle of informed consent. 

Now large numbers of elective surgical and trauma cases involving both adult and minor Witnesses are being managed without blood transfusions. Recently, representatives of Jehovah's Witnesses met with surgical and administrative personnel at some of the largest medical centers in the country. These meetings improved understanding and helped resolve questions about blood salvage, transplants, and the avoidance of medical/legal confrontations.

Next time: How CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE -WITNESS POSITION ON THERAPY

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

ENJOY LIFE SAVED BY BLOOD

When we understand what God says about blood, we come to have the greatest respect for its lifesaving value.  The Scriptures describe Christ as the one who 'loves us and who loosed us from our sins by means of his own blood.'  (Revelation 1:5; John 3:16)  Yes, by means of Jesus' blood, we can gain full and lasting forgiveness of our sins. The apostle Paul wrote:  "Since we have  been declared righteous now by his blood, shall we be saved through him from wrath."  That is how lasting life can be saved by blood. -Romans 5:9; Hebrews 9:14. 

Jehovah God long ago gave assurance that by means of Christ 'all the families of the earth can bless themselves.' (Genesis 22:18) That blessing includes restoring the earth to a paradise.  Then believing mankind will no longer be afflicted with sickness, aging, or even death; they will enjoy blessings that far exceed the temporary aid medical personnel now offer us. We have this marvelous promise:  "He will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away." -Revelation 21:4. 

How wise, then, for us to take to heart all off God's requirements!  That includes obeying his commands about blood, not missing it even in medical situations.  We thus will not live just for the moment. Rather, we will manifest our high regard for life, including our future prospect of everlasting life in human perfection. 

Next time: HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/JEHOVAH'S WITNESSES/THE SURGICAL/ETHICAL CHALLENGE 

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

Conclusion of: THE ONLY BLOOD THAT IS LIFE-SAVING

The Bible compares  the Messiah's role to what was done on Atonement Day: "When Christ came as a high priest of the good things that have come to pass, through the greater and more perfect [temple] not made with hands, . . . he entered, no, not with the blood of goats and of young bulls, but with his own blood, once for all time into the holy place [heaven] and obtained an everlasting deliverance for us.  Yes, nearly all things are cleansed with blood according to the Law, and unless blood is poured out no forgiveness takes place." -Hebrews 9:11, 12, 22. 

It thus becomes plain why we need to have God's view of blood. In accord with his right  as Creator, he has determined its exclusive usefulness. Israelites of old may have heaped health benefits by not taking in animal or human blood, but that was not the most important point.  (Isaiah 48:17)  They had to avoid sustaining their lives with blood, not primarily because doing otherwise was unhealthy, but because it was unholy to God.  They were to abstain from blood, not because it was polluted, but because it was precious in obtaining forgiveness.  

The apostle Paul explained about the ransom:  "By means of him [Christ] we have the release by ransom through the  blood of that one, yes, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his undeserved kindness."  (Ephesians 1:7)   The original Greek word found there is properly translated "blood," but a number of Bible versions err in substituting the word "death." Hence, readers might miss the emphasis on our Creator's view of blood and the sacrificial value that he has linked to it. 

The Bible's theme revolves around the fact that Christ died as a perfect ransom sacrifice but did not remain dead. Following the pattern that God set on Atonement Day, Jesus was raised to heaven to "appear before the person of God for us."  He presented the there the value of his sacrificial blood.  (Hebrews 9:24)  The Bible emphasizes that we must avoid any course that would amount to 'trampling on the Son of God and esteeming his blood as of ordinary value.' Only thus may we keep a good relationship and peace with God. -Hebrews 10:29; Colossians 1;20. 

Next time: HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/ENJOY LIFE SAVED BY BLOOD

From the Watchtower magazine  

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

THE ONLY BLOOD THAT IS LIFE-SAVING

As noted earlier, God told all mankind that they must not eat blood. Why?  Because blood represents life.  (Genesis 9:3-6) He explained this further in the Law code given to Israel.  At the time the Law code was ratified, the blood of sacrificed animals was used on the altar.  (Exodus 24:3-8) Laws int hat code addressed the fact that all humans are imperfect; they are sinful, as the Bible puts it. God told the Israelites that by means of animal sacrifices offered to him, they could acknowledge the need to have their sins covered. (Leviticus 4:4-7, 13-18, 22-30) Granted, that was what God asked of them back then, not what he asks of true worshipers today. Yet it has vital import for us now. 

God himself explained the principle underlying those sacrifices:  "The soul [or, life] of the flesh is in the blood, and I myself have put it upon the altar for you to make atonement for your souls, because it is the blood that makes atonement by the soul in it. That is why I have to the sons of Israel:  'No soul of you must eat blood.' " -Leviticus 17:11, 12.

On the ancient festival called Atonement Day, Israel's high priest took blood of sacrificed animals into the most sacred part of the temple, the center of God's worship. Doing that was a symbolic way of asking God to cover the people's sins.   (Leviticus 16:3-6, 11-16) Those sacrifices did not  actually do away with all sin, so they had to be repeated each year. Still, this use of blood set a meaningful pattern. 

A major teaching in the Bible is that God would eventually provide one perfect sacrifice that could fully atone for the sins of all believers.  This is called the ransom, and it focuses on the sacrifice of the foretold Messiah, or Christ.

Next time: HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/Conclusion of: THE ONLY BLOOD THAT IS LIFE-SAVING 

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

Conclusion of: THE BLOOD THAT REALLY SAVES LIVES

He no doubt believed that blood would have been lifesaving. The year after he wrote this, however, The British Journal of Surgery (October 1986) reported that prior to the advent of transfusions, gastrointestinal hemorrhage had  " a mortality rate of only 2.5 percent."  Since transfusions became customary, 'most large studies report a 10-percent mortality.' Why a death rate four times as high?  The researchers suggested:  "Early blood transfusion appears to reverse the hypercoagulable response to hemorrhage thereby encouraging re-bleeding." When the Witness with the bleeding ulcer refused blood, his choice may actually have maximized his prospects for survival. 

This same surgeon added:  "The passage of time and treating many patients has a tendency to change one's perspective, and today I find the trust between patient and his physician more important than the new medical technology which surrounds us. . . .  It is interesting that the frustration that has now given way to a sense of awe and reverence for that particular patient's steadfast faith."  The physician concluded:  'It reminds me that I should always respect a patient's personal and religious wishes regardless of my feelings or the consequences. 

You may already realize something that many physicians  come to appreciate with "the passage of time and treating many patients." Even the best of medical care in the finest of hospitals, at some point people die. With or without blood transfusions, they die. All of us are aging, and life's end is approaching. That is not fatalistic. It is realistic. Dying is a fact of life. 

The evidence shows that people who disregard God's law on blood often experience immediate or delayed harm; some even die from the blood. Those who survive have not gained endless life. So blood transfusion do not save lives permanently.  Most people who, for religious and/or medical reasons, refuse blood but accept alternative medical therapy do very well. They may thus extend their life for years. But not endlessly.

That all humans are imperfect and gradually dying leads us to the eternal truth of what the Bible says about blood. If we understand and appreciate this truth, we will see how blood can actually save life-our life- lastingly. 

Next time: HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/THE ONLY BLOOD THAT IS LIFESAVING

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

THE BLOOD THAT REALLY SAVES LIVES

Certain points are clear from the foregoing information. Though many people view them as lifesaving, blood transfusions are fraught with risks. Each year thousands dies as a result of transfusions; multitudes more get  very sick and face long-term consequences. So, even from  a physical standpoint, there is a wisdom right now in heeding the Biblical command to 'abstain from blood.' -Acts 15:28, 29, Leviticus 17:10-14. 

Patients are protected from many hazards if they request non-blood medical management. Skilled physicians who have accepted the challenge of applying this on Jehovah's Witnesses  have developed a standard of practice that is safe and effective, as is proved in numerous medical reports. Physicians who provoke quality care without blood are not compromising valued medical principles. Rather, they show respect for a patient's right to know risks and benefits so that he can make an informed choice as to what will be done to his body and life.

We are not being  naive in this matter, for we realize that not all will agree with this approach. People differ as to conscience, ethics, and medical outlook. Hence, others, including some doctors, may find it hard to accept a patient's decision to abstain from blood. One New York surgeon wrote: "I will never forget 15 years ago, as a young intern when I stood at the bedside of a Jehovah's Witness who bled to death from duodenal ulcer.  The patient's wishes were respected and no transfusions were given, but I can still remember the tremendous frustration I felt as a physician." 

Next time: HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/Conclusion of: THE BLOOD THAT REALLY SAVES LIVES

From  the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

Conclusion of: LOVING CARE FOR CHILDREN

That same year the New York Court of Appeals ruled:  "The most significant factor in determining whether a child is being deprived of adequate medical care . . . is whether the parents have provided an acceptable course of medical treatment for their child in light of all the surrounding circumstances.  This inquiry cannot be posed in terms of whether the parent has made a 'right' or a 'wrong' decision, for the present state of the practice of medicine, despite its vast advances, very seldom permits such definitive conclusions. Nor can a court assume the role of a surrogate parent." -In re Hofbauer. 

Recall the example of parents choosing between surgery and antibiotics. Each therapy would have its own risks. Loving parents are responsible to weigh risks, benefits, and other factors and then to make a choice. In this connection, Dr. Jon Samuels (Anesthesiology News, October 1989) suggested a review of Guides to the Judge in Medical Orders Affecting Children, which took this position: 

Medical knowledge is not sufficiently advance to enable to a physician to predict with reasonable certainty that his patient will live or die . . . If there is a choice of procedures -if, for example, the doctor recommends a procedure which has an 80 percent chance of success but which the parents disapprove, and the parents have no objection to a procedure which has only a 40 percent  chance of success-the doctor must take the medically riskier but parentally unobjectionable course." In view of the many lethal hazards in medical use of blood that have surfaced and because there are effective alternative ways of management, might not avoiding blood even carry the lower risk? 

Naturally, Christians weigh many factors if their child needs surgery. Every operation, with or without the use of blood, has risks. What surgeon gives guarantees?  The parents may know that skilled physicians  have had fine success with bloodless surgery on Witness children. So even if a physician or a hospital official has another preference, rather than cause a stressful and time-consuming legal battle, is it not reasonable for them to work with the loving parents? Or parents may transfer their child to another hospital where the staff is experienced in handling such cases and willing to do so. In fact, non-blood management will more likely be quality care, for it can help; the family "to achieve legitimate medical and non-medical goals," as we noted earlier.

Next time: HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/THE BLOOD THAT REALLY SAVES LIVES

From the Watchtower magazine 

HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?

LOVING CARE FOR CHILDREN

Court cases regarding blood mainly involve children. On occasion, when loving parents have respectfully asked that non-blood management be used, some medical personnel have sought court backing to give blood.  Of course, Christians agree with laws or court action to prevent child abuse or neglect. Perhaps you have read of cases in which some parent brutalized a child or denied it medical care. How tragic! Clearly, the State can and should step in to protect a neglected child. Still, it is easy to see how very different it is when a caring parent request high-quality non-blood medical therapy.

These court cases usually focus on a child in a hospital. How did the younger get there, and why?  Almost always the concerned parents brought their child to get quality care. Even as Jesus was interested in children, Christian parents care for their children.   The Bible speaks of  'a nursing mother cherish her own children.'  Jehovah's Witnesses have such deep love for their children. -1 Thessalonians 2:7; Matthew 7:11; 19:13-15. 

Naturally, all parents make decisions affecting their children's safety and life:  Will the family use gas or oil to heat the home?  Will they take a child on a long-distance drive? May he go swimming? Such matters involve risks, even life-and-death ones.  But society recognizes parental discretion, so parents are granted the major voice in nearly all decisions affecting their children.  

In 1979 the U.S. Supreme Court stated clearly:  "The law's concept of the family  rests on a presumption that parents possess what a child lacks in  maturity, experience, and capacity for judgment required for making life's difficult decisions. . . .Simply because the decision of a parent  [on a medical matter] involves risks does not automatically transfer  the power to make that decision from the parents to some agency or officer of the state." -Parham v J.R. 

Next time: HOW CAN BLOOD SAVE YOUR LIFE?/LOVING CARE FOR CHILDREN

From the Watchtower magazine