Generous Givers Are Happy People - Conclusion of FULFILLING THE ROLE GOD HAS GIVEN HIS PEOPLE

Being generous with out time and energy in the preaching and disciple-making work brings great joy.  Many who have had the privilege of conducting progressive Bible studies will tell you that few things are more rewarding.  Great happiness comes from seeing appreciative individuals light up when they grasp spiritual truths, grow in faith, make changes, and start sharing the truth with others.  Jesus also experienced great happiness when the 70 preachers whom he had led out to the field "returned with joy" because of their favorable results they had experienced. -Luke 10"17-21.

Publishers worldwide rejoice to see the message of the good news affect people's lives in positive ways.  Consider the experience of Anna, a young single sister, who expanded her ministry by moving to serve in an area of Eastern Europe where the need for preachers is great.  "There are a lot of opportunities to conduct Bible studies here, and I like that very much," she writes.  "My services gives me great joy.  When I get home, I don't have time to focus on myself.  I think about those with whom I am studying-their troubles and anxieties.  I look for ways to encourage them and help them in practical ways.  And I have become convinced that 'there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving." - Acts 20:35.

We can find happiness in giving people the opportunity to respond to the message of the good news even if they choose not to listen.  After all, our communication today is similar to that of the prophet Ezekiel, to whom Jehovah said:  "You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or not."  (Ezekiel 2:7; Isaiah 43:10) Even if some do not appreciate our message, Jehovah appreciates our efforts.  (Read Hebrews 6:10) One publisher showed an excellent attitude in this regard. He wrote concerning his ministry, "We have planted, watered, and prayed in hopes that Jehovah will  make the interest grow." -1 Corinthians 3:6. 

Next time: Generous Givers Are Happy People - HOW TO BE HAPPY

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