Pursue Peace by Fighting Envy - Conclusion of CULTIVATE HUMILITY AND CONTENTMENT

Consider another situation that many older brothers are facing. For several decades, they have served as coordinators  of the bodies of elders.  But when they turn 80, they willingly give up their assignment. Circuit overseers who reach 70 years of age humbly give up that privilege and accept their reassignment  to a different form of service. And in recent years, many Bethel family members around the world have begun new assignments in the field.  These faithful brothers and sisters do not resent those who may now care for the assignments that they once had,

The apostle Paul is another good example of someone who cultivated contentment and humility. Paul did not allow envy to develop.  He worked hard in the ministry, but he humbly said: "I am the least of the apostles, and I am not worthy of being called an apostle." (1 Corinthians 15:9, 10)  The 12 apostles followed Jesus during his earthly ministry, but Paul did not become a Christian until after Jesus' death and resurrection. Although he was  eventually appointed to be "an apostle to the nations," Paul did not qualify for the special privilege of becoming one of the 12 apostles.  (Romans 11:13; Acts 1:21-26)  Rather than envying those 12 men and the close association they had enjoyed with Jesus, Paul remained content with what he had. 

If we are content and humble, we will be like Paul and show respect for the authority that Jehovah has given to others.  (Acts 21:20-26)  He has arranged for appointed men to take the lead in the Christian congregation.  Despite their imperfections, Jehovah considers  them "gifts in men." (Ephesians 4:8-11) When we respect these appointed men and humbly follow their direction, we stay close to Jehovah and enjoy peace with our fellow Christians.

Next time: Pursue Peace by Fighting Envy - "PURSUE THE THINGS MAKING FOR PEACE"

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