"To Know the Love of the Christ"-Do You "Know the Love of the Christ"?

Truly, Jehovah's Word beautifully describes the love of the Christ. How, though, should we respond to Jesus' love? The Bible urges us: "to know the love of the Christ which surpasses knowledge."  (Ephesians 3:19)  As we have seen, the Gospel accounts of Jesus' life and ministry teach us much about Christ's love.  However, fully coming "to know the love of the Christ" involves more than learning what the Bible says about him.

The Greek term rendered "to know" means to know "practically, through experience."  When we show love the way Jesus did-unselfishly giving of ourselves in behalf of others, compassionately responding to their needs, forgiving hem from our hearts-then we can genuinely appreciate his feelings. In this way, by experience we come "to know the love of the Christ which surpasses knowledge."  And let us never forget hat the more we become like Christ, the closer we will draw to the one whom Jesus perfectly imitated, our loving God, Jehovah.

Next time: Chapter 30: "Go On Walking in Love"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-Conclusion of "Father, Forgive Them"

Peter did not have to wait long for an answer.  Jesus was resurrected on the morning of Nisan 16, and evidently on that same day, he made a personal visit to Peter.  (Luke 24:34; 1 Corinthians 15:4-8) Why did Jesus give such special attention to the apostle who had so vigorously denied Him? Jesus may have wanted to assure the repentant Peter that he was still loved and valued by his Lord.  But Jesus did even more to reassure Peter.


Some time later, Jesus appeared to the disciples at the Sea of Galilee. On this occasion, Jesus three times questioned Peter (who had three times denied his Lord) as to Peter's love for him.  After the third time, Peter replied:  "Lord, you know all things; you are aware that I have affection for you."  Indeed, Jesus, who could read hearts, was fully aware of Peter's love and affection for him.  Yet, Jesus gave Peter  an opportunity to reaffirm his love.  More than that, Jesus commissioned Peter to "feed" and "shepherd" his "little sheep."  (John 21:15-17)  Earlier, Peter had received an assignment to preach. (Luke 5:10)  But now, in a remarkable demonstration of trust, Jesus gave him a further weighty responsibility-to care for those who would become Christ's followers. Shortly afterward, Jesus gave Peter a prominent role in the activity of the disciples.  (Acts 2:1-41) How relieved Peter must have been to know that Jesus had forgiven him and still trusted him!


Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ"-Do You "Know the Love of the Christ"?


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-"Father, Forgive Them"

Jesus perfectly reflected his Father's love in another important way-he was "ready to forgive."  (Psalm 86:5)  This willingness was evident when he was on the torture stake.  Subjected to a shameful death, with nails piercing his hands and feet, what did Jesus speak about?  Did he call out to Jehovah to punish his executioners?  On the contrary, among Jesus' last words were:  "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do." -Luke 23:34.


Perhaps an even more touching example of Jesus' forgiveness can be seen in the way he dealt with the apostle Peter.  There is no question that Peter dearly loved Jesus.  On Nisan 14, the final night of Jesus' life, Peter told him: "Lord, I am ready to go with you both into prison and death."  Yet, just a few hours later, Peter three times denied ever knowing Jesus!  The Bible tells us what happened as Peter uttered his third denial: "The Lord turned and looked upon Peter." Crushed by the weight of his sin, Peter "went outside and wept bitterly."  When Jesus died later that day, the apostle may have wondered, 'Did my Lord forgive me?' -Luke 22:33, 61, 62.


Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ"-Conclusion of "Father, Forgive Them"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-Conclusion of "He Was Moved With Pity"

Jesus "was moved with pity" for the bereaved mother in a reassuring tone, he said to her:  ""Stop weeping."  Unbidden, he approached and touched the bier.  The bearers - and perhaps the rest of the crowd-came to a halt. With the voice of authority, Jesus spoke to the lifeless body:  " Young man, I say to you, Get up!"  What happened next? "The dead man sat up and started to speak" as if awakened from a deep sleep! Then follows a most touching statement:  "And Jesus gave him to his mother."


What do we learn from these account?  In each case, notice the connection between compassion and action.  Jesus could not see the plight of others without being moved with pity, and he could not feel such compassion without acting on it.  How can we follow his example?  As Christians, we have an obligation to preach the good news and to make disciples.  Primarily, we are motivated by love for God. Let us remember, though, that this is also a work of compassion.  When we feel for people as Jesus did, our heart will move us to do all we can to share the good news with them.  (Matthew 22:37-39)  What about showing compassion to fellow believers who are suffering or grieving?  We cannot miraculously  cure physical suffering or raise the dead.  However,  we can put compassion into action by taking the initiative to express our concern or provide appropriate practical help. -Ephesians 4:32.


Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ" - "Father, Forgive Them"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-Continue with "He Was Moved With Pity"

Can you imagine what that touch meant to the leper?  To illustrate, consider an experience.  Dr. Paul Brand, a leprosy specialist, tell of a leper he treated in India. During the examination, the doctor laid his hands on the leper's shoulder and explained, through an interpreter, the treatment that the man would have to undergo. Suddenly, the leper began to weep.  "Have I said something wrong?" the doctor asked.  The interpreter questioned the young man in his language and replied:  "No doctor. He says he is crying because you put your hand around his shoulder. Until he came here no one had touched him for many years."  For the leper who approached Jesus, being touched had even greater meaning. Following that one touch,the disease that had made him an outcast was gone!

"Moved to dispel grief. Jesus was deeply moved by the grief of others.  Consider, for example, the account at Luke 7:11-15.  It took place when, about halfway through his ministry, Jesus approached the outskirts of the Galilean city of Nain.  As Jesus got near the gate of the city, he met a funeral procession.  The circumstances were especially tragic.  A young man who had been an only child had died, and the mother was a widow.  Once before, she had likely been in such a procession-that of her husband.  This time it was her son, who perhaps had been her only support. The crowd accompanying her may have included  additional mourners chanting lamentations and musicians playing mournful tunes.  (Jeremiah 9:17, 18; Matthew 9:23)  Jesus' gaze, however, became fixed on the grief-stricken mother, no doubt walking near the bier that carried the body of her son. 

Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ"-Conclusion of "He Was Moved With Pity"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-Continue with "He Was Moved With Pity"

Was Jesus upset that his privacy was disturbed?  Not at all! His heart was touched by the sight of this crowd, numbering in the thousands, who awaited him.  Mark wrote:  "He saw a great crowd, but he was moved with pity for them, because they were as sheep without a shepherd.  And he started to teach them many things."  Jesus saw these people as individuals having spiritual needs.  They were like sheep straying helplessly, having no shepherd to guide or protect them.  Jesus knew that the common people were neglected by the coldhearted religious leaders, who were suppose to be caring shepherds.  (John 7:47-49) His heart went out to the people, so he began teaching them "about the kingdom of God."  (Luke 9:11) Notice that Jesus was moved with pity  for the people even before  seeing their reaction to what he would teach.  In other words, tender compassionate was, not the result of his teaching the crowd, but rather the motive for his doing so.


Moved to relieve suffering. People with various ailments sensed that Jesus had compassion, so they were drawn to him.  This was especially evident when Jesus, with crowds following him, was approached by a man "full of leprosy."  (Luke 5:12) In Bible times, lepers were quarantined so as to protect others from contamination.   (Numbers 5:1-4)  In time, however, rabbinic leaders fostered a heartless view of leprosy and imposed their own oppressive rules.   Notice, though, how Jesus responded  to the leper:  "There also came to him a leper, entreating him even on bended knee, saying to him:  'If you just want to, you can make me clean.' At that he was moved with pity and stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him:  'I want to.  Be made clean." And immediately the leprosy vanished from him."  (Mark 1:40-42)  Jesus knew that it was unlawful for the leper to even be there. Yet, instead of turning him away Jesus was so deeply moved that he did something unthinkable.  Jesus touched him!


Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ" - Continue with "He Was Moved With Pity"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-"He Was Moved With Pity"

Like his father, Jesus was compassionate.  The Scriptures describe Jesus as one who reached out to those in distress because he was deeply moved. To describe the compassion of Jesus, the Bible uses a Greek word that is rendered "moved to pity." Says one scholar:  "It describes . . . an emotion which moves a man to the very depths of his being.  It is the strongest word in Greek for the feeling of compassion."  Consider some situations in which Jesus was moved by a deep compassion that compelled him to act.


Moved to respond to spiritual needs.  The account at Mark 6:30-34 shows what principally moved Jesus to express his pity.  Picture the scene.  The apostles were excited, for they had just completed an extensive preaching tour.  They returned to Jesus and eagerly reported all that they had seen and heard.  But a large crowd gathered, leaving Jesus and his apostles no time even to eat.  Ever observant, Jesus noticed that the apostles were tired.  "Come, you yourselves privately into a lonely place and rest up a bit,"  he told them. Boarding a boat, they sailed across the northern tip of the Sea of Galilee to a quiet place.  But the crowd saw them leave.  Others also heard about it.  All of these ran alongside the northern shoreline and arrived on the other side of the boat!


Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ"-Continue with "He Was Moved With Pity"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-Conclusion of "No One Has Love Greater Than This"

Throughout his earthly ministry, Jesus showed self-sacrificing love in various ways.  He was totally unselfish.  He was so absorbed in his ministry that he sacrificed normal comforts to which humans are accustomed. "Foxes have dens and birds  of heaven have roosts," he said, "but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head."  (Matthew 8:20)   Being a skilled carpenter, Jesus could have taken some time off to build  a comfortable home for himself or to make beautiful furniture to sell so that he would have had some extra money.  But he did not use his skills to gain material things.


A truly touching example of Jesus' self-sacrificing love is recorded at John 19:25-27.    Imagine the many things that must have occupied  his mind and heart of Jesus on the afternoon of his death. As he suffered on the stake, he was concerned about his disciples, the preaching work, and especially his integrity and how it would reflect on his Father's name.  Really, the entire future of mankind rested on his shoulders!  Yet, just moments before he died, Jesus also show concerned for his mother, Mary who was  apparently a widow by then.  Jesus asked the apostle John to look after Mary as if she were John's own mother, and apostle thereafter too Mary to his home. Jesus thus arranged for the physical and spiritual care of his mother. What a tender expression of unselfish love!


Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ"-"He Was Move With Pity"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"To Know the Love of the Christ"-"No One Has Love Greater Than This"

Jesus set an outstanding example of self-sacrificing love. Self-sacrifice involves unselfishly putting the needs and concerns of others ahead of your own.  How did Jesus demonstrate such love?  He himself explained:  "No one has love greater than this, that someone should surrender his soul in behalf of his friends."  (John 15:13) Jesus willingly gave his perfect life for us. It was the greatest expression of love ever made by any human.  But Jesus showed self-sacrificing love in other ways as well.


In his pre-human existence, the only-begotten Son of God had a privileged and exalted position in the heavens. He had intimate association with Jehovah and with multitudes of spirit creatures. Despite these  personal advantages, this dear Son "emptied himself and took a slave's form and came to be in the likeness of men."  (Philippians 2:7) He willingly came to live among sinful humans in a world "lying in the power of the wicked one." (1 John 5:19) Was that not a loving sacrifice on the part of God's Son?


Next time: "To Know the Love of the Christ" - Conclusion of "No One Has Love Greater Than This"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

Chapter 29: "To Know the Love of the Christ"

HAVE you ever seen a  little boy trying to be like his father? The son may imitate the way his father walks, talks, or acts. In time, the boy may even absorb his father's moral and spiritual values. Yes, the love and admiration that a son feels for a loving father moves the boy to want to be like his dad.


What about the relationship between Jesus and his heavenly Father? "I love the Father," Jesus said on one occasion.  (John 14:31) No one can possibly love Jehovah more than this Son, who was with the Father long before any other creatures came into existence.  That love moved this devoted Son to want to be like his Father. -John 14:9.


In earlier chapters of this book, we discussed how Jesus perfectly imitated Jehovah's power, justice, and wisdom.  How, though,, did Jesus reflect  his Father's love?  Let us examine three facets of Jesus' love -his self-sacrificing  spirit, his tender compassion, and his willingness to forgive.


Next time: Chapter 29: "To Know the Love of the Christ" - "No One Has Love Greater Than This"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"You Alone Are Loyal"-Jehovah's Loyal Love Opens Up the Way of Salvation

Throughout history, Jehovah has shown remarkable loyalty toward faithful humans.  In fact, for thousands of years, Jehovah has "tolerated  with much long-suffering vessels of wrath made fit for destruction." Why? "In order  that he might make known the riches of his glory upon vessels of mercy, which he prepared beforehand for glory."  (Romans 9:22, 23) These "vessels of mercy" are rightly disposed ones who are anointed by holy spirit to be joint heirs with Christ in his  Kingdom. ( Matthew 19:28) By opening up  the way of salvation for these vessels of mercy, Jehovah remained loyal to Abraham, to whom he had made the covenant promise:  "By means of your seed, all nations of the earth will certainly bless themselves due to the fact that you have listened to my voice." -Genesis 22:18.


Jehovah shows similar loyalty to "a great crowd" who have the prospect of coming out of "the great tribulation" and of living forever on a paradise earth.  (Revelation 7:9, 10, 14) Although his servants are imperfect, Jehovah loyally extends to them the opportunity  to live forever on a paradise earth.  How does he do so?  By means of  the ransom-the great demonstration of Jehovah's loyalty.  (John 3:16; Romans 5:8) Jehovah's loyalty  attracts those  who, in their hearts, hunger for righteousness.  (Jeremiah 31:3)  Do you not feel closer to Jehovah for the deep loyalty he has shown and will yet show?  Since it is our desire to draw close to God, may we respond  to his love by strengthening our resolve to serve him with loyalty.


Next time: Chapter 29: "To Know The Love of the Christ"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"You Alone Are Loyal"-Conclusion of Jehovah "Will Not Leave His Loyal Ones"

God's punishment of the wicked is in itself an act of loyalty. How? One indication is found in the book of Revelation in the commands that Jehovah issues to seven angels:  "Go and pour out the seven bowls  of the anger of God into the earth."  When the third angel pours his bowl "into the rivers and fountains of the waters," they become blood.  Then the angel says to Jehovah:  "You, he One who is and who was, the loyal One, are righteous, because have rendered these decisions, because they poured out the blood of the holy ones and of prophets, and you have given them blood to drink.  They deserve it." -Revelation 16:1-6. 



Note that in the midst of delivering that message of judgment, the angel refers to Jehovah as "the loyal One." Why?  Because by destroying the wicked, Jehovah is displaying loyalty to his servants many of whom have been persecuted to the point of death. Loyally, Jehovah keeps  such ones very much alive in his memory.  He yearns to see these departed faithful ones again, and the Bible confirms that his purpose is to reward them with a resurrection .  (Job 14:14, 15)  Jehovah does not forget his loyal servants simply because they are no longer alive.  On the contrary,  "they are all living to him."  (Luke 20:37, 38)  Jehovah's purpose  to bring back to life those who are in his memory is powerful evidence of his loyalty.


Next time: "You Alone Are Loyal"-Jehovah's Loyal Love Opens Up the Way of Salvation


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"You Alone Are Loyal"-Continue with Jehovah "Will Not Leave His Loyal Ones"

Of course, as a nation the Israelites failed to demonstrate appreciation for Jehovah's loving-kindness, for after their deliverance "they kept sinning still more against  [Jehovah] by rebelling against the Most High." (Psalm 78:17) Over the centuries, they rebelled again and again, leaving Jehovah and turning to false gods and pagan practices that brought nothing but defilement.  Still, Jehovah did not break his covenant.  Instead, through the prophet Jeremiah, Jehovah implored his people:  "Do return oh renegade Israel . . . I shall  not have my face drop angrily upon you people, for I am loyal."   (Jeremiah 3:12)  As noted in  Chapter 25, however, most of the Israelites were not moved.  Indeed, "they were continually making jest at the messengers of the true God and despising his words, and mocking at his prophets."  With what result? Finally, "the rage of Jehovah came up against his people, until there was no healing." -2 Chronicles 36:15, 16.


What do we learn from this?  That Jehovah's loyalty is neither blind nor gullible.  True, Jehovah is "abundant in loving-kindness," and he delights  to show mercy when there is a basis for it.  But what happens when a wrongdoer  proves he is incorrigibly wicked?  In such a case, Jehovah adheres to his own righteous standards and renders adverse judgment.  As Moses was told, "by no means will [Jehovah] give exemption from punishment." -Exodus 34:6, 7.


Next time: "You Alone Are Loyal"-Conclusion of Jehovah "Will Not Leave His Loyal Ones"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"You Alone Are Loyal"-Jehovah "Will Not Leave His Loyal Ones"

Jehovah has time and again demonstrated his loyalty.  Since Jehovah is perfectly consistent, the loyalty he shows toward his faithful servants never wanes.  The psalmist wrote:  "A young man I used to be, I have also grown old and yet I have not seen anyone righteous  left entirely, nor his offspring looking for bread.  For Jehovah is a lover of justice, and he will not leave his loyal ones." (Psalm 37:25, 28) True, as the Creator, Jehovah deserves out worship.  (Revelation 4:11)  Still, because he is loyal, Jehovah treasures our faithful acts. - Malachi 3:16, 17.


In his loving-kindness, Jehovah repeatedly comes to the aid of his people when they are in distress.  The psalmist tells us: "He is guarding the souls of his loyal ones; out of the hand of the wicked ones he delivers them." (Psalm 97:10) Consider the dealings  with the nation of Israel.  After their miraculous deliverance through the Red Seam, the Israelites proclaimed in song to Jehovah:  "You in your loving-kindness [or, "loyal love,"] have led the people whom you have recovered."  (Exodus 15:13) The deliverance at the Red Sea certainly was an act of loyal love on Jehovah's part. Moses therefore told the Israelites:  "It was not because of your being the most populous of all the peoples that Jehovah showed affection for you so that he chose you, for you were the least of all the peoples.  But it was because  of Jehovah's loving you , and because of his keeping the sworn statement that he has sworn to your forefathers, that Jehovah brought you out with a strong hand, that he might redeem you from the house of slaves from the hand of Pharaoh the king of Egypt." -Deuteronomy 7:7,8.


Next time: "You Alone Are Loyal"-Jehovah "Will Not Leave His Loyal Ones"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"You Alone Are Loyal"-Conclusion of Jehovah's Matchless Loyalty

Jehovah also shows loyalty by remaining faithful to his word of promise.  When he foretells something, it comes to pass. Jehovah thus stated:  "My word that goes forth from my mouth . . . will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it." (Isaiah 55:11) By remaining faithful to his word, Jehovah shows loyalty to his people.  He does not keep them anxiously awaiting something that he does not intend to bring about.  Jehovah's reputation is so impeccable in this regard that his servant Joshua as able to say:  "Not a promise failed out of all the good promise that Jehovah had made to the house of Israel; it all came true."  (Joshua 21:45)  We can be confident, them, that we will never be led to disappointment  because of some failure on Jehovah's part to live up to his promises. -Isaiah 49:23; Romans 5:5. 


As noted earlier, the Bible tells us that Jehovah's loving kindness "is to time indefinite." (Psalm 136:1) How is this so? For one thing, Jehovah's forgiveness of sins is permanent. As discussed in Chapter 26, Jehovah does not bring up errors of the past for which a person has been pardoned.  Since "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," each of us should be grateful that Jehovah's loving-kindness is to time indefinite.


But Jehovah's loving-kindness is to indefinite in another sense as well.  His Word says that the righteous one "will certainly become like a tree planted by streams of water, that gives its own fruit in its season and the foliage of which does not wither, and everything he does will succeed."  (Psalm 1:3)  Imagine a luxuriant tree whose foliage never withers!  So, too, if we take genuine delight in God's Word, our lives will be long, peaceful, and fruitful.  The blessings that Jehovah loyally sends to his faithful servants are everlasting.  Truly, in the righteous new world that Jehovah will bring, obedient mankind will experience his lovign0-kindness to time indefinite. - Revelation 21:3, 4.


Next time: "You Alone Are Loyal"-Jehovah "Will Not Leave His Loyal Ones"


From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"You Alone Are Loyal"-Continue with Jehovah's Matchless Loyalty

Jehovah is "loyal in all his works." (Psalm 145:17) In what way? Psalm 136 provides an answer. There a number of Jehovah's saving acts are cited, including the dramatic deliverance of the Israelites through the Red Sea.  Significantly, each verse of this psalm are punctuated with the phrase:  "For his loving-kindness [or, loyalty] is to time indefinite."   Yes, Jehovah displays loyalty to his faithful servants by hearing their cries for help and by taking action at the appointed time.  (Psalm 34:6)  Jehovah's loyal love for his servants does not waver as long as they remain loyal to him.

In addition, Jehovah demonstrates loyalty to his servants by remaining true to his standards. Unlike some erratic humans, who are guided by mere whim and sentiment, Jehovah does not vacillate  on his view of what is right and what is wrong.  Throughout the millenniums, his view of such things as spiritism, idolatry, and murder has remained unchanged.  "Even to one's old age I am the same One," he stated through his prophet Isaiah.  (Isaiah 46:4)  Hence, we can have confidence that we will benefit by following clear moral direction from God's Word. -Isaiah 48:17-19. 

Next time:  "You Alone Are Loyal"-Conclusion of Jehovah's Matchless Loyalty

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"You Alone Are Loyal"-Jehovah's Matchless Loyalty

The Bible says of Jehovah: "You alone are loyal." (Revelation 15:4)  How can that be?  Have not both humans and angels at times displayed remarkable loyalty?  (Job 1:1; Revelation 4:8) And what of Jesus Christ?  Is he not God's chief "loyal one"?  (Psalm 16:10)  How, then, can it be said that Jehovah alone is loyal?

First of all, remember that loyalty is a facet of love.  Since God is love"-he being the vary personification of this quality-who  could display loyalty more completely than Jehovah? (1 John 4:8)  Really, angels and humans may reflect God's attributes, but only Jehovah is loyal to the superlative degree.  As "the Ancient of Days," he has been displaying loving-kindness longer than any creature, earthly or heavenly.  (Daniel 7:9) Hence, Jehovah is the very epitome of loyalty.  He displays this quality in a manner that no creature can match.  Consider some examples.  

Next time: "You Alone Are Loyal"-Continue with Jehovah's Matchless Loyalty

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"You Alone Are Loyal"-What Is Loyalty?

"Loyalty" as used in the  Hebrew Scriptures is kindness that lovingly attaches itself to an object and does not let go until its purpose in connection with that object is realized.  More is involved than faithfulness.  After all, a person might be faithful merely out of a sense of duty.  In contrast, loyalty is rooted in love.  Then, too, the word "faithful" can be applied to inanimate things.  For example, the psalmist called the moon "a faithful witness in the skies "because of its regular nightly appearance.  (Psalm 89:37) But the moon cannot be described as being loyal. Why? Because loyalty is an expression of love-something that inanimate things cannot display.  

In its Scriptural sense, loyalty is warm. It very manifestation indicates that a relationship exists between the person who displays the quality and the one toward whom it is shown.  Such loyalty is not fickle.  It is not like waves of the sea blown about by changing winds.  On the contrary, loyalty, or loyal love, has the stability and strength to overcome the most daunting of obstacles.

Granted, such loyalty is rare today.  All too often, close companions are "disposed to break one another to pieces."  Increasingly, we hear of spouses  who abandon their mates.  (Proverbs 18:24; Malachi 12:14-16) Treacherous acts are so common that we might find ourselves echoing the words of the prophet Micah:  "The loyal one has perished from the earth." (Micah 7:2)  Although humans often fail to show loving-kindness, loyalty outstandingly characterizes Jehovah.  In fact, the best way to learn just what loyalty entails is to examine how Jehovah displays this grand facet of his love. 

Next time: "You Alone Are Loyal"-Jehovah's Matchless Loyalty

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

Chapter 28: "You Alone Are Loyal"

KING DAVID was no stranger to disloyalty. At one point his tumultuous reign was beset by intrigue. with members of his own nation plotting against him. Furthermore, David was betrayed by some of those whom we would expect to have been his closest companions.  Consider Michal, David's first wife. Initially, she "was in love with David," no doubt supporting him in his kingly endeavors.   Later, however, she "began to despise him in her heart,"  even considering David to be "just one of the empty-headed men." -1 Samuel 18:20; 2 Samuel 6:16, 20.  

Then there was David's personal advisor, Ahithophel.  His counsel was esteemed as if it were the direct word of Jehovah.  (2 Samuel 16:23)  But, in time, this trusted confidant turned traitor and joined and organized rebellion against David.  And who was the instigator of the conspiracy? Absalom, David's own son!  That scheming opportunist "kept stealing the hearts of the men of Israel," Setting himself up as a rival king. Absalom's revolt gained so much momentum that King David was forced to flee for his life.-2 Samuel 15:1-6, 12-17.

Was there not one who remained loyal to David?  Throughout all his adversity, David knew that indeed there was. Who?  None other than Jehovah God.  "With someone loyal you will act in loyalty," David said of Jehovah.  (2 Samuel 22:26) What is loyalty, and how does Jehovah provide the loftiest example of his quality? 

Next time: Chapter 28: "You Alone Are Loyal"-What Is Loyalty?

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Conclusion of "Become Radiant Over the Goodness of Jehovah

Further, when we get an opportunity to talk to others about God's goodness, we are delighted. Regarding Jehovah's people, Psalm 145:7 says: "With the mention of the abundance of your goodness they will bubble over."  Every day that we live, we benefit in some way from Jehovah's goodness.  Why not make it a practice each day to thank Jehovah for his goodness, being as specific as possible?  Thinking about that quality, thanking Jehovah for it daily, and telling others about it will help us to imitate our good God. And as we seek ways to do good,as Jehovah does, we will draw ever closer to him.  The aged apostle John wrote:  "Beloved one, be an imitator, not of what is bad, but of what is good. He that does good originates with God." -3 John 11.

Jehovah's goodness is also associated with other qualities.  For example, God is "abundant in loving kindness," or loyal love.  (Exodus 34:6)  This quality is more specific in its focus than is goodness, for Jehovah expresses  its particularly toward his faithful servants.  In the next chapter, we will learn how he does so. 

Next time: Chapter 28: "You Alone Are Loyal"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-"Become Radiant Over the Goodness of Jehovah

When Satan tempted Eve in the garden of Eden, he began by subtly undermining her trust in Jehovah's goodness.  Jehovah had told Adam: "From every tree of the garden you may eat to satisfaction."  One of the thousands of trees that must have graced that garden, only one was placed off limits by Jehovah.  Yet, notice how Satan worded his first question to Eve."  Is it really so that God said you must not eat from every tree of the garden?"  (Genesis 2:9, 16; 3:1)  Satan twisted Jehovah's words to make Eve think that Jehovah was holding back something good.  Sadly, the tactic worked.  Eve, like so many men and women after her began to doubt the goodness of God, who had given her everything she had. 

We know the depth of sorrow and misery brought on by such doubts:  So let us take to heart the words of Jeremiah 31:12:  "They will certainly . . . become radiant over the goodness of Jehovah."   Jehovah's goodness should indeed make us radiant with joy.  We need never doubt the motives of our God, who is so full of goodness. We may trust in him completely, for he wants nothing but good for those who love him. 

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Conclusion of "Become Radiant Over the Goodness of Jehovah"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Additional Facets of Jehovah's Goodness

Jehovah's goodness involves more than generosity.  God told Moses:  "I  myself shall cause all my goodness to pass before your face, and I will declare the name of  Jehovah before you."  Later the account says:  "Jehovah went passing by before his face and declaring: 'Jehovah, Jehovah, a God merciful and and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in loving-kindness and truth.' " (Exodus 33:19, 34:6) So Jehovah's goodness embraces a number of fine qualities.  Let us consider just two of these. 

"Gracious." This quality tells us much about Jehovah's manner of dealing with his creatures.  Instead of being brusque, cold, or tyrannical, as is often true of the powerful, Jehovah is gentle and kind.  For example, Jehovah said to Abram:  "Raise your eyes, please, and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward."  (Genesis 13:14)  Many translations omit the word "please."  But Bible scholars note that the wording in the original Hebrew includes a word particle that changes  the statement from a command to a polite request.  There are other, similar instances.  (Genesis 31:12; Ezekiel 8:5)  Imagine, the Sovereign of the universe  says "please"  to mere humans!  In a world where harshness, pushiness, and rudeness are so common, is it not refreshing to contemplate the graciousness of our God, Jehovah? 

"Abundant in . . .truth."  Dishonesty has become the way of the world today.  But the Bible reminds us:  "God is not a man that he should tell lies."  (Numbers  23:19) In fact, Titus 1:2 says:  that "God . . . cannot lie."  His is far too good for that.  Thus, Jehovah's promises are completely reliable; his words, always sure of fulfillment. Jehovah is even called "the God of truth."  (Psalm 31:5)  Not only does he refrain from telling falsehoods, but he dispenses an abundance of truth.  He is  not closed, guarded, or secretive; rather, he generously enlightens his faithful servants from his boundless store of wisdom.  He even teaches them how to live by the truths he dispenses  so that they may go on walking in the truth."  (3 John 3)  In general, how should Jehovah's goodness affect us individually? 

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"-"Become Radiant Over the Goodness of Jehovah" 

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Conclusion of Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

The vision meant that Jehovah would restore his arrangement for pure worship, as pictured by the temple Ezekiel saw.  Like that visionary river, God's  provisions for life would flow out to his people in every-greater abundance.  Since the restoration of pure worship in 1919, Jehovah has blessed his people with life-giving provisions. How?   Well, Bibles, Bible literature, meetings, and conventions have all served to bring vital truths  to millions.  By such means  Jehovah has taught people about the most important of his provisions  for life to all those who truly love and fear God.  Hence, throughout these last days, while the world has suffered a spiritual famine, Jehovah's people have enjoyed a spiritual feast. -Isaiah 65:13. 

But Ezekiel's visionary river does not stop flowing when this old system of things meets  its end.  On the contrary, it will flow even more abundantly during Christ's Millennial Reign.  Then, by  means of the Messianic Kingdom, Jehovah will apply the full value of Jesus' sacrifice, gradually lifting  faithful mankind to perfection.  How we will then exult over Jehovah's goodness! 

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Additional Facets of Jehovah's  Goodness

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

Jesus said: 'Man must live, not by bread alone, but on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah's mouth.' " (Matthew 4:4)  Indeed, Jehovah's spiritual provisions can do us even more good than can the physical kind, for they lead to everlasting life.  In Chapter 8 of this book, we noted that Jehovah has used his  restorative power during these last days to bring into being a spiritual paradise.   A key feature of that paradise is the abundance of spiritual food.  

In one of the Bible's great restorative prophecies, the prophet Ezekiel was given a vision of a restored and glorified temple.  From that temple flowed a stream of water, widening and deepening as it went until it became a "double-sized torrent."  Wherever it flowed, that river brought blessings.  On its banks flourished a crop of trees that provided food and healing.  And the river even brought life and productivity to the salty, lifeless Dead Sea! (Ezekiel 47:1-12)  But what did all of that mean? 

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Conclusion of Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"- Conclusion of Evidence of Jehovah's Abundance Goodness

In his infinite goodness, Jehovah has given us a body that is"wonderfully made," with senses designed to help us perceive his works and delight in them. (Psalm 139:14)  Think again of those scenes described at the outset of this chapter.  What sights bring joy to such moments? The flushed cheeks of  a delightful child.  The curtains of rain descending on the fields.  The reds, golds, and violets of a sunset.  The human eye is designed to detect over 300,000 different colors!  And our sense of hearing catches the nuances of tone in a well-loved voice, the whisper of the wind coming through the trees, the toddlers  ecstatic laugh.  Why are we able to enjoy such sights and sounds? The Bible says:  "The hearing ear and the seeing eye-Jehovah himself has made even both of them." (Proverbs 20:12) But those are only two of the senses. 

The sense of smell is another evidence of Jehovah's goodness.  The human nose can distinguish some 10,000 different odors.  Think of just a few; your favorite food, cooking, flowers, fallen leaves, the hint of smoke from a cozy fire. And your sense of touch enables you to feel the caress of a breeze on your face, the reassuring embrace of a loved one, the satisfying smoothness of a piece of fruit in your hand.  When you take a bit, you sense of taste comes into play.  A symphony of flavor greets you and your taste buds detect subtleties created by the fruit's complex chemical makeup. Yes, we have every reason to exclaim regarding Jehovah:  "How abundant your goodness is, which you have treasured up for those fearing you!"  (Psalm 31:19)  How, though, has Jehovah "treasured up" goodness for those who have godly fear?

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Goodness With Everlasting Benefits

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Evidence of Jehovah's Abundant Goodness

Everyone who has ever lived has benefited from Jehovah's goodness.  Psalm 145:9 says:  "Jehovah is good to all."  What are some examples of his all-embracing goodness?  The Bible says: "He did not leave himself without witness in that he did good, giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling your hearts to the full with food and good cheer."  (Acts 14:17)  Have you ever felt your spirits  lift when enjoying a delightful meal?  Were it not for Jehovah's goodness in designing this earth with its ever-recycling fresh water supply and "fruitful seasons" to produce in abundance of food, there would be no meals.  Jehovah has directed such goodness not just to those who love him but to everyone.  Jesus said:  "He makes his sun rise upon the wicked people and the good and makes it rain upon the righteous people and unrighteous." -Matthew 5:45. 

Many take for granted the sheer generosity that is heaped upon mankind because of the continued action of the sun, the rain, and the fruitful seasons.  For example, consider the apple.  Throughout the temperate regions of the earth, it is a common fruit.  Yet, it is beautiful, delicious to eat, and full of refreshing nutrients.  Did you know that worldwide there are some 7,500 different varieties of applies, ranging in color from red to gold to yellow to green and in the size from slightly larger than a cherry to the size of a grapefruit?  If you hold a tiny apple seed in your hand, it looks insignificant.  But from it grows one of the loveliest of trees.  (Song of Solomon 2:3) Every spring the apple tree is crowned with a glorious halo of blossoms; every autumn it produces fruit. Each year-for up to 75 years-the average apple tree will yield enough fruit to fill 20 cartons to a weight of 42 pounds each! 

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Conclusion of Evidence of Jehovah's Abundant Goodness

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Conclusion of An Outstanding Facet of Divine Love

Evidently, the man was using the words "Good Teacher" as a flattering title.  Jesus modestly directed such glory to his  heavenly Father, who is good in the supreme sense. (Proverbs 11:2) But Jesus was also affirming a profound truth.  Jehovah alone is the standard for what is good.  Only he has the sovereign right to determine what is good and what is bad.  Adam and Eve, by rebelliously partaking of the tree of the knowledge of good and bad, sought to assume that right themselves.  Unlike them, Jesus humbly leaves the setting of standards to his Father.

Moreover, Jesus knew that  Jehovah is the source of all that is truly good. He is the Giver of "every good gift and every perfect present."  (James 1:17) Let us examine hos Jehovah's goodness is evident in his generosity.

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"- Evidence of Jehovah's Abundant Goodness

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"O How Great His Goodness Is!"-An Outstanding Facet of Divine Love

In many modern languages, "goodness" is a somewhat bland word.  As revealed in the Bible, though, goodness is far from bland.  Primarily, it refers to virtue and moral excellence.  In a sense, then, we might say that goodness permeates Jehovah. All his attributes -including his power, his justice, and his wisdom-are good through and through.  Still, goodness might best be described as an expression of Jehovah's love.  Why? 

Goodness is an active, outgoing quality.  The apostle Paul indicated that in humans it is even more appealing than righteousness.  (Romans 5:7)  The righteous man can be counted on to adhere faithfully to the requirements of the law, but a good man does more.  He takes the initiative, actively seeking ways  to benefit others.  As we shall see, Jehovah is certainly good in that sense. Clearly, such goodness springs from Jehovah's boundless love.

Jehovah is also unique in his goodness. Not long before Jesus died, a man approached him to ask a question, addressing him with the words "Good Teacher."  Jesus replied:  "Why do you call me good?  Nobody is good, except one, God."  (Mark 10:17, 18) Not that response may strike you as puzzling. Why would Jesus correct the man?  Was not Jesus, in fact, a "Good Teacher"? 

Next time: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"-Conclusion of An Outstanding Facet of Divine Love 

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

Chapter 27: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"

BATHED in the warm light of sunset, a few longtime friends enjoy and outdoor meal together, laughing and talking as they admire the view.  Far away, a farmer looks out a this fields and smiles in satisfaction because dark clouds have gathered and the first drops of rain are falling on thirsty crops.  Elsewhere, a husband and wife are delighted to see their child take his first wobbly steps. 

Whether they know it or not, such people are all benefiting from the same thing-the goodness of Jehovah God. Religious people often repeat the phrase:  "God is good."  The Bible is far more emphatic.  It says:  "O how great his goodness is!"  (Zechariah 9:17)  But it seems that few today really know what those words mean. What does he goodness of Jehovah God actually involve, and how does this quality of God affect each one of us?  

Next time: Chapter 27: "O How Great His Goodness Is!" -And Outstanding Facet of Divine Love

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Conclusion of What About the Consequences?

Like any loving parent, Jehovah may offer forgiveness along with a measure of discipline.  (Proverbs 3:11, 12)  A repentant  Christian may have to relinquish his privilege of serving as an elder, a ministerial servant, or a full-time evangelizer.  It may be painful for him to lose for a period of time privileges that were precious to him. Such discipline, however, does not mean that Jehovah has withheld forgiveness. We must remember that discipline from Jehovah is proof of his love for us. Accepting and applying it is in our best interests. -Hebrews 12:5-11.

How refreshing to know that our God is "ready to forgive"!  Despite the mistakes, we may have made, we should never conclude that we are beyond the  reach of Jehovah's mercy.  If we truly repent, take steps to right the wrong, and earnestly pray for forgiveness on the basis of Jesus' shed blood, we can have full confidence that Jehovah will forgive us.  (1 John 1:9)  Let us imitate his forgiveness in our dealings with one another, after all, if Jehovah, who does not sin, can so lovingly forgive us, should not we sinful humans do our best to forgive one another?

Next time: Chapter 27: "O How Great His Goodness Is!"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Continue with What About the Consequences?

This law was a merciful provision from God.  It benefited the victim, whose property was returned and who no doubt felt much relief when the offender finally acknowledged his in.  At the same time, the law benefited the one whose conscience at last moved him to admit his guilt and corrected his wrong.  Indeed, if he refused to do so, there would be no forgiveness for him from God.

Although we are not under the Mosaic Law, that Law gives us insight into Jehovah's mind, including his thinking on forgiveness. (Colossians  2:13, 14)  If others have been hurt by our sins, God is pleased when we do what we can to right the wrong.  (Matthew 5:23, 24)  This may involve acknowledging our sin, admitting our guilt, and even apologizing  to the victim.  Then we can appeal to  Jehovah on the basis of Jesus' sacrifice and experience the assurance that we have been forgiven by God.-Hebrews 10:21, 22. 

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Conclusion of What About the Consequences?

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-What About the Consequences?

Does Jehovah's readiness to forgive mean that a repentant sinner is exempted from all consequences of his wrong course?  Not at all.  We cannot sin with impunity.  Paul wrote: "What a man is sowing, this he will also reap." (Galatians 6:7) We may face certain consequences of our actions.  This does not mean that after extending forgiveness Jehovah causes adversity to befall us.  When troubles arise, a Christian should not feel,'Perhaps Jehovah is punishing us for past sins.' (James 1:13)  On the other hand, Jehovah does not shield us from all the effects of our wrong actions.  Divorce, unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted disease, loss of trust or respect-all of these  may be the sad, unavoidable consequences of sin.  Recall that even after forgiving David for his sins in connection with Bath-sheba and Uriah, Jehovah did not protect David from the disastrous consequences that followed. -2 Samuel 12:9-12.

Our sins may have additional consequences, especially of others have been hurt by our actions.  Consider, for example, the account of Leviticus chapter 6.  The Mosaic Law here addresses the situation wherein a person commits a serious wrong by seizing a fellow Israelite's goods through robbery, extortion, of fraud.  The sinner that denies that he is guilty, even being so daring as to swear falsely.  It is one person's word against another's.  Later, however, the offender becomes stricken in conscience and confesses to the sin.  To gain God's forgiveness, he has to do three more things: restore what he had taken, pay the victim a fine totaling 20 percent of the value of the stolen items, and provide a ram as a guilt offering.  Then, the law says:  "The priest must make an atonement for him before Jehovah, and so it must be forgiven him."-Leviticus 6:1-7.

Next time:  A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Continue with What About the Consequences?

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-"Their Sin I Shall Remember No More"

Jehovah promised regarding those in the new covenant:  "I shall forgive their error, and their sin I shall remember no more." (Jeremiah 31:34)  Does this mean that when Jehovah forgives he is unable to recall sins anymore?  That could hardly be the case.  The Bible tells us of the sins many individuals whom Jehovah forgave, including David.  (2 Samuel 11:1-17; 12:13)  Jehovah is obviously still aware of the errors they committed.  The record of their sins, as well as that of their repentance and forgiveness by God, has been preserved for our benefit.  (Romans 15:4) What, then, does the Bible mean when it says that Jehovah does not "remember" the sins of those whom he forgives?

The Hebrew verb rendered "I shall remember" implies more than simply to recall the past.  The Theological Workbook of the Old Testament) notes that it includes  "the additional implication of taking appropriate action."  So in this sense, to "remember" sin involves taking action against sinners.  (Hosea 9:9)  But when God says "their sin I shall remember no more," he is assuring us that once he forgives repentant sinners, he will not at some future time act against them because of those sins .  (Ezekiel 18:21, 22)  Jehovah thus forgets in the sense that he does not bring our sins up again and again in order to accuse or punish us over and over.  Is it not comforting to know that our God forgives and forgets?

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-What About the Consequences?

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Conclusion of How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

Jehovah's forgiveness is further described at Acts 3:19:"Repent,therefore, and turn around so as to get  your sins blotted out."  That last phrase translates a Greek verb that can mean "to wipe out, . . . cancel or destroy."  According to some scholars, the image expressed is that of erasing handwriting.  How was this possible?  The ink commonly used in ancient times was made of a mixture  that included carbon, gum, and water.  Soon after working with such ink, a person could take a wet sponge and wipe the writing away.  Therein is a beautiful picture of Jehovah's mercy.  When he forgives our sins, it is as though he takes a sponge and wipes them away. 

When we reflect on these varied word pictures, is it not clear that Jehovah wants us to know that he is truly ready to forgive our sins as long as he finds us sincerely repentant? We need not fear that he will hold such sins against us in the future.  This is shown by something else that the Bible reveals about Jehovah's great mercy:  When he forgives, he forgets.

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-"Their Sin I Shall Remember No More"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Continue with How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

In a promise of restoration, the prophet Micah expressed his conviction that Jehovah would forgive his repentant people:  "Who is a God like you, . . . passing over transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? . . . And you will throw into the depths of the sea all their sins." (Micah 7:18, 19)  Imagine what those words mean to those living in Bible times.  Was there any chance of retrieving something that had been hurled "into the depths of the sea"?  Micah's words thus indicated that when Jehovah forgives, he removes our sins  permanently. 

Jesus drew on the relationship between creditors and debtors to illustrate Jehovah's forgiveness.  Jesus urged us to pray:  "Forgive our debts."  (Matthew 6:12)  Jesus thus likened sins to debts. (Luke 11:4) When we sin, we become "debtor" to Jehovah. Regarding the meaning of the Greek verb translated "forgive,"  one reference work  says:  "To let go, give up, a debt by not demanding it." In a sense, when Jehovah forgives, he cancels the debt that would otherwise be charged against our account.  Repentant sinners can thus take comfort. Jehovah will never demand payment for a debt he has canceled! Psalm 32:1, 2. 

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Conclusion of How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Continue with How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive

Have you ever tried to remove a stain from a light-colored garment? Perhaps despite you best efforts, the stain remained visible. Notice how Jehovah describes his capacity for forgiveness:  "Though the sins of you people should  prove to be as scarlet, they will be made white just like snow; though they should be red like crimson cloth, they will become even like wool."  (Isaiah 1:18) The word "scarlet" denotes a bright red color.  "Crimson was one of the deep colors of dyed material.  (Nahum 2:3)  We can never through our own efforts  remove the stain of sin.  But Jehovah can take sins,  that are like scarlet and crimson and make them like snow or  undyed wool.  When Jehovah forgives our sins, we need not feel that we bear the stain of such sins for the rest of our life.

In a moving song of gratitude that Hezekiah composed after he was spared from a deadly sickness, he said to Jehovah: "You have thrown behind your back all my sins." (Isaiah 38:17)  Jehovah is here portrayed as taking the sins of a repentant wrongdoer and throwing them behind Him where He neither sees them nor takes notice of them anymore. According to one source, the idea conveyed may be expressed:  "You have made [my sins] as if they had not happened." Is that not reassuring?

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Continue with How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive? 

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah  

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

A repentant David said: "My sin I finally confessed to you, and my error I did not cover. . . . And you yourself pardoned the error of my sins."  (Psalm 32:5)  The term "pardoned" translates a Hebrew word that basically mean "lift up" or "carry."  Its use here signifies to take away "guilt, iniquity, transgression."  So Jehovah, in effect, lifted up David's sins and carried them away.  This no doubt eased the feelings of guilt that David had been carrying.  (Psalm 32:3)  We too can have full confidence in the God who carries away the sins of those  who seek his forgiveness on the basis of their faith in Jesus' ransom sacrifice. -Matthew 20:28.  

David uses another vivid expression to describe Jehovah's forgiveness: "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed  our transgressions from us." (Psalm 103:12, the Amplified Bible)  How far is east from west?  In a sense, east is always at the utmost distance imaginable from west; the two points can never meet.  One scholar notes that this expression means "as far as possible; as far as we can imagine. 

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Continue with How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Conclusion of Why Jehovah Is "Ready to Forgive"

Hence, Jehovah knows that perfect obedience is  not possible for us,  no matter how earnestly we may yearn to give it to him.  He lovingly assures us that when we seek his mercy with a contrite heart, he will extend forgiveness.  Psalm 51:17 says:  "The sacrifices  to God are a broken spirit; a broken and crushed, O God, you will not despise."  Jehovah will never reject, or turn away a heart that is "broken and crushed" by the burden of guilt.

Does this mean, though, that we can presume on God's mercy, using our sinful nature as an excuse to sin?  Certainly  not!  Jehovah is not guided by mere sentiment. His mercy has limits.  He will by no means forgive those who hardheartedly practice will sin, not showing any repentance.  (Hebrew 10:26)  On the other hand, when he sees a contrite heart, he is ready to forgive. Let us  now consider some of the expressive language used in the Bible to describe this marvelous facet of Jehovah's love. 

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-How Completely Does Jehovah Forgive?

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Why Jehovah Is "Ready to Forgive"

Jehovah is aware of our limitations.  "He himself well knows the formation of us, remembering that we are dust," says Psalm 103:14.  He does not forget that we are creatures of dust, having families, or weaknesses, as a result of imperfection.  The expression he knows "the formation of us" reminds us that the Bible likens Jehovah to a potter and to us the clay vessels he forms.  (Jeremiah 18:2-6)  The Great Potter tempers his dealings with us according to the frailty of our sinful nature and the way we respond or fail to respond to his guidance. 

Jehovah understands how powerful sin is. His Word describes sin as a potent force that has man in its deadly grip.  Just how strong is sin's hold?  In the book of Romans, the apostle Paul explains: We are "under sin," as soldiers are under their commander  (Romans 5-3:9); sin has "ruled" over mankind like a king (Romans 5:21); it "resides," or is  "dwelling," within us (Romans 7:17, 20); its "law" is continually at work in us, in effect trying to control our course.  (Romans 7:23, 25) What a powerful hold sin has on our fallen flesh! - Romans 7:21, 24. 

Next time: A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Conclusion of Why Jehovah Is "Ready to Forgive" 

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

Chapter 26/ A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive

"MY OWN errors have passed over my head," wrote the psalmist David.  " Like a  heavy load they are too heavy for me.  I have grown numb and become crushed to an extreme degree." (Psalm 38:4, 8)  David knew how heavy the burden of a guilty conscience could be.  But he found comfort for his troubled heart.  He understood that while Jehovah hates sin, He does not hate the sinner if that one is truly repentant and rejects his sinful course.  With full faith in Jehovah's willingness to extend mercy to repentant ones,  David said:  "You, O Jehovah, are . . . ready to forgive." -Psalm 86:5. 

When we sin, we too may carry the crushing burden of a pained conscience.  This feeling of remorse is healthy.  It can move us to make positive steps to correct our mistakes.  There is, however, a danger of becoming overwhelmed by guilt.  Our self-condemning heart might insist that Jehovah will not forgive  us, no matter how repentant we are.  If we become "swallowed up" by guilt, Satan may try to get us to give up, to feel that Jehovah views us as worthless, unfit to serve him.-2 Corinthians 2:5-11. 

Is that how Jehovah views matters?  Not at all! Forgiveness is a facet of Jehovah's great love. In his Word, he assures us that when we manifests genuine, heartfelt repentance, he is willing to forgive.  (Proverbs 28:13) Lest Jehovah's forgiveness ever seem unattainable to us, let us examine why and how he forgives. 

Next time: Chapter 26/A God Who Is "Ready to Forgive"-Why Jehovah is "Ready to Forgive"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"The Tender Compassion of Our God"- Conclusion of When Jehovah Withholds Compassion

What about today?  Jehovah has not changed.  Out of compassion, he has commissioned his Witnesses to preach the "good news of the kingdom"  in all the inhabited earth. (Matthew 24:14)  When righthearted people respond, Jehovah helps them to grasp the Kingdom message.  (Acts  16:14) But this work will not go on forever.  It would hardly be compassionate for Jehovah to allow this wicked world, with all its misery and suffering, to continue  indefinitely.  When divine compassion has reached its limit, Jehovah will come to execute judgment on this system of things.  Even then, he will be acting out of compassion-compassion for  his "holy name" and for his devoted servants.  (Ezekiel 36; 20-23)   Jehovah will clear away wickedness and usher in a righteous new world.  Regarding the wicked, Jehovah declares:  "My eye will not feel sorry, neither shall I show compassion.  Their way I shall certainly bring upon their own head." -Ezekiel 9:10. 

Until then, Jehovah feels compassion for people, even those who face destruction. Sinful humans who are sincerely repentant can benefit from one of Jehovah's most compassionate provisions-forgiveness.   In the next chapter, we will discuss some of the beautiful word pictures in the Bible that convey the completeness of Jehovah's forgiveness.

Next time:  Chapter 26/A God Who Is "Read to Forgive"

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"The Tender Compassion of Our God"-When Jehovah Withholds Compassion

Are we to imagine that Jehovah's tender compassion is without limits?  On the contrary, the Bible clearly shows that in the case of individuals who set themselves against his righteous ways, Jehovah rightly withholds compassion.  (Hebrews 10:28)  To see why he does so, recall the example of the nation of  Israel.

Although Jehovah repeatedly delivered the Israelites from their enemies, his compassion eventually reached its limit.  This stubborn people practiced Idolatry, even bringing their disgusting idols right into Jehovah's temple!  (Ezekiel 5:11; 8:17, 18)  Further, we are told:  "They were continually making jest at the messengers of the true God and despising his words and mocking at his prophets, until the rage of Jehovah came up against his people,  until there was no healing."  (2 Chronicles 36:16)  The Israelites reached a point where there was no longer any proper basis  for compassion,  and they provoked Jehovah to righteous anger. With what result? 

Jehovah could no longer feel compassion for his people.  He proclaimed:  "I shall show no compassion, nor feel any sorrow, and I shall not have the mercy to keep from bringing them to ruin."  (Jeremiah 13:14)  Thus, Jerusalem and its temper were destroyed, and the Israelites were taken captive to Babylon.  How tragic is it when sinful humans get so rebellious that they exhaust the limits of divine compassion! - Lamentations 2:21. 

Next time: "The Tender Compassion of Our God"-Conclusion of When Jehovah Withhold Compassion

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah

"The Tender Compassion of Our God"- Conclusion of Jehovah's Compassion for Individuals

How, then, does Jehovah help us as individuals?  He does not necessarily remove the cause of our suffering.  But Jehovah has made abundant provisions for those who cry out to him for help.  His Word, the Bible, offers practical counsel that can make a difference.  In the congregation, Jehovah provides spiritually qualified overseers, who endeavor  to reflect his congregation in helping fellow worshipers.  (James 5: 14, 15)  As the  "Hearer of prayer" he gives "holy spirit to those asking him."  (Psalm 65:2; Luke 11:13) That spirit can infuse us with "power beyond what is normal" in order to endure until God's Kingdom removes all stressful problems.  (2 Corinthians 4:7)  Are we not grateful for all these provisions?  Let us not forget that they are expressions of Jehovah's tender compassion. 

Of course, the greatest example of Jehovah's compassion is his giving the One dearest to him as a ransom for us.  It was a loving sacrifice on Jehovah's part, and it opened the way for our salvation.  Remember, that ransom provision applies  to us personally. With good reason, Zechariah, the father of John the Baptizer, foretold that this provision magnified "the tender compassion of our God." -Luke 1:78. 

Next time: "The Tender Compassion of Our God"-When Jehovah Withholds Compassion

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah 

"The Tender Compassion of Our God"-Jehovah's Compassion for Individuals

The Law that God gave to the nation of Israel showed his compassion for individuals.  Take, for example, his concern for the poor.  Jehovah knew that unforeseen circumstances might arise that could plunge an Israelite into poverty.  How were poor ones to be treated?  Jehovah strictly commanded the Israelites: "You must not harden your heart or be closefisted toward your poor brother.  You should by all means give to him, and your heart should not be stingy in your giving to him, because  on this account Jehovah your God will bless you in every deed of yours."  (Deuteronomy 15:7, 10)  Jehovah further commanded that the Israelites not harvest the edges of their fields completely or pick up an leftovers.  Such gleanings were for disadvantaged ones.  (Leviticus 23:22; Ruth 2:2-7)  When the nation observed this considerate legislation in behalf of the poor in their midst, needy individuals in Israel did not have to beg for food. Was that not a reflection of Jehovah's tender compassion?  

Today, too, our loving God is deeply concerned about us as individuals.  We can be sure that he is keenly aware of any suffering we may undergo.  The psalmist David wrote:  "The eyes of Jehovah are toward the righteous ones, and his ears are toward their cry for help.  Jehovah is near to those that broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves." (Psalm 34:15, 18)  Regarding those  described by these words, one Bible commentator notes: "They are of a broken heart and a contrite spirit, that is, humbled for sin, and emptied of self; they are low in their own eyes, and have no confidence in their own merit."  Such ones may feel that Jehovah is far away and that they are too insignificant for him to care about them.   But that is not the case.  David's words assured us that Jehovah does not abandon those who are "low in their own eyes." Our compassionate God knows that at such times, we need him more than ever, and he is near.

Consider and experience. A mother in the United States rushed her two-year-old son to the hospital because he was suffering from a bad case of croup. After examining the boy, doctors informed the mother that they would have to keep him in the hospital overnight.  Where did the mother spend the night?  In a chair in the hospital room, right next to her son's bed!  Her little boy was sick, and she just had to be near him.  Surely we can expect even more from our loving heavenly Father!  After all, we are made in his image.  (Genesis 1:26)  The touching words of Psalm 34:18 tell us that when we are "broken at heart" or "crushed in spirit," Jehovah, like a loving parent, "is near"-ever compassionate and ready to help.  

Next time: "The Tender Compassion of Our God"-Conclusion of Jehovah's Compassion for Individuals

From the book: Draw Close to Jehovah