God Provides Comfort in All Our Trials -COMFORT IN THE FAMILY

How can we comfort families in the congregation?   At times, new ones might ask us to help them teach their children about Jehovah or even to study the Bible with their young ones.  The Bible shows that Jehovah gives parent the responsibility to teach and train their children.  (Proverbs 23:22; Ephesians 6:1-4)  Although in some cases others may help, it is very important to teach their children themselves. Parents need to talk with their children regularly. 

When  a parent asks us to study the Bible with his or her child, it is good to remember that we do not have the same authority as the parent. Sometimes we may even study with a child whose parents are not in the truth. When we study with children who are not our own, it would be wise to study in their homes when their parents or other mature Witnesses are around or to study in a public place. In this way, we will not give anyone the wrong impression. And in time, perhaps the parents themselves will be able to teach their children about Jehovah.   

Young ones who have learned to love Jehovah can comfort and encourage their family members. How so?  By respecting their parents and working hard to to help them in practical ways. Also, when children stay faithful to Jehovah, this is encouraging to the entire family.   Before the first Flood, Lamech worshipped Jehovah. He said about his son Noah: "This one will bring us comfort from our labor and from the painful toll of our hands because of the ground that Jehovah has cursed."  That prophecy was fulfilled after the Flood when Jehovah removed the curse from the ground.  (Genesis 5:29; 8:21)   Today, children who remain faithful to Jehovah can comfort their family.  They can help everyone in the family to endure trials now and in the future.

Jehovah's people today are finding comfort through prayer, meditation on Bible examples, and close friendship with their brothers and sisters. (Read Psalm 145:18, 1 9)  We know that Jehovah is always ready to comfort us, and he will surely help; us to endure any trials we may have!

Next time: "Do You Love Me More Than These?" 

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