Learning From Jesus' Final Words

 

"SEE! YOUR SON! . . . SEE! YOUR MOTHER!" 

What did Jesus say? (Read John 19:26, 27.) Jesus was concerned about his mother, who was likely a widow.  His siblings could perhaps care for her physical and material needs. But who could care for her spiritual needs?  There is no indication that his brothers were as yet disciples.  However, John was a faithful apostle and one of Jesus' closest friends.  Jesus viewed those who joined him in worshipping Jehovah as his spiritual family. (Matthew 12:46-50)  Therefore, moved by love and concern from Mary, Jesus entrusted her care to John, knowing that he would care for her spiritual welfare.  To his mother, he said: "See! your son! And to John, he said:  "See! Your mother!"   From that  day on, John became like a son to Mary and cared fir ger as if she were his mother.  What love Jesus showed tot hat precious woman who had tenderly  cared for him at his birth and was standing near him at his death! 

 What can we learn from Jesus' words?  Our bond with our Christian brothers and sisters can be stronger than our ties to immediate family members.  Our relatives may oppose us or even abandon us, but as Jesus promised, by sticking to Jehovah and His organization, we wil "get 100 timts more" than  we have lost.  Many will become to us like a loving son, daughter, mother, or father.  (Mark 10:29, 30)  How do you feel about being part of a spiritual family who are united by faith and love-love for Jehovah and for one another? - COLOSSIANS 3:14; 1 PETER 2:17. 

Next time: Learning From Jesus' Final Words - "MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?"

From  the jw.org publications

Learning From Jesus' Final Words

 

"YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE"

What did Jesus say? Two criminals were being executed alongside Jesus. At first, the two joined in reproaching him.  (Matthew 27:44) But later, one of them has a change of heart.  He came to the conclusion that Jesus had done "nothing wrong." (Luke 23:40, 41)  What is more, he expressed his belief that Jesus would be resurrected from death, and rule as king someday.  He said to the dying Savior:  "Jesus, remember me when you get into your Kingdom." (Luke 23:42)  What faith that man showed!  In answer, Jesus said to him: "Truly I tell you today,you will be with me [not in Kingdom, but] in Paradise." (Luke 23:43)  Notice that Jesus made that promise very personal by referring to "I," "you," and "me."  Knowin gthat his Father is merciful, Jesus spoke word that gave hopeto this dying criminal. - PSALM 103:8. 

What can we  learn from Jesus' words?  Jesus is a perfect reflection of his Father.  (Hebrew 1:3)  Jehovah is eager to forgive us and to show us mercy if we are truly sorry for the bad things we have done in the past and we exercise faith that we can obtain forgiveness of our sins through the shed blood of Jesus Christ.  (1 John 1:7)  Some may find it difficult to believe thaty Jehovah could  ever forgive them for their past mistakes. If you feel that way at times, consider this:  Shortly before he died, Jesus made an expression of mercy to the condemned criminal who was just beginning to show faith. So how much more would Jehovah show mercy to his faithful worshippers, who are doing their best to obey his commandments! -   PSALM 51:1; 1 JOHN 2:1, 2.

Next time:  Learning From Jesus' Final Words - "SEE YOUR SON! . . .SEE YOUR MOTHER!" 

From the jw.org publications

Learning From Jesus' Final Words

 

"FATHER, FORGIVE THEM"

What did Jesus say? Upon being nailed to the stake, Jesus prayed:  "Father, forgive them."  Forgive whom? We find a clue in the word that follow:  "They know not what they are doing." (Luke 23:33, 34)  Jesus was likely referring tot he Roman soldiers who drove the nails through his hands and feet.  They did not know who he really was.  He may also have had in mind some in the crowd  who had demanded his execution but would later exercise faith in him.  (Acts 2:36-38)  Jesus refused to allow the injustices he had suffered to make him bitter and resentful.  (1 Peter 2:23)  Instead, he asked Jehovah to forgive  those puttign his to death. 

What can we learn from Jesus' words?  Like Jesus, we need to be willing to forgive others.   (Colossians 3:13)  Some, including relatives, may oppose us because they do not understand our beliefs and our way of life.  They may like about us, humiliate us in front of others, destroy our literature, or even threaten to cause us physical harm.  Rather than harboring resentment, we can ask Jehovah to open the eyes of those who oppose us so that they may one day see the truth.  (Matthew5:44, 35)  At times, we may find it hard to forgive, especially if we have experienced the gross injustices. But if we allow bitterness and resentment to take root in our heart, we hurt ourselves. One sister explained:  "I realize that being forgiving does not mean that I condone offenses. or allow others  to take advantage of me. It just means that I choose to let go of resentment." (Psalm 37:8) When we decide to forgive, we are choosing not to let negative experiences make us bitter. - EPHESIANS 4:31, 32. 

Next time: Learning From Jesus' Final Words - "YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE"

From the jw.org publications

Learning From Jesus' Final Words

 

"This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved.  Listen to him." - MATTHEW 17:5. 

IT IS daytime, Nisan 14, C.E. After being falsely accused and being judged guilty of a crime he did not commit, Jesus is mocked, cruelly tortured, and then nailed to a  torture stake. Nails pierce his hands and feet.  Every breath he takes, every word he speaks, is painful.  But he must speak-he has important things to say.

Let us discuss the words Jesus spoke as he was dying on the torture stake and the lessons we can learn from them. In other words, let us "listen to him." - MATTHEW 17:5.

"FATHER, FORGIVE THEM"

From the jw.org publications 

"Follow His Steps Closely" - Conclusion of THE NEEDY WIDOW IN THE TEMPLE

 Apply the account in your life.  Ask yourself,  'What lesson can I learn from Jesus' words about the poor widow?  Think about that widow.  No doubt she wished that she could have given more to Jehovah.  Yet, she did what she could; she gave Jehovah her very best. And Jesus knew that her contribution was precious in his Father's eyes.  Here, then, is an important lesson for us:  Jehovah is pleased when we give him our best-our wholehearted and whole-souled servivce.  (Matthew 22:37; Colossians 3:23)  Jehovah is happy when he sees us doing all we can! That principle applies to the amount of time and energy we can devote to our worship, including the ministry and the meetings.

How can you apply the lesson from the account about the widow?  Try to think of specific individuals who may need to be reassured that their efforts are pleasing to Jehovah.  For example, do you know of an older sister who perhaps feels guilty or useless because she no longer has the health or energy  to do as much as he used to in the ministry?  Or can you think of a brother with a chronic, painful illness who gets discouraged because he cannot bne at the Kingdom Hall for every meeting?  Help such ones by speaking words that are "good for building up." (Ephesians 4:29) Share with them the heartwarming lesson we learned from the account about the poor widow.  Your encouraging words  can reassure them that Jehovah is pleased when we give him our best-no matter how small it may seem-your are following Jesus' footsteps closely.

How thankful we are that the Gospel accounts provide so many details about Jesus' life, enabling us to imitate him, to follow his footsteps closely!  Why not have  a personal study or Family Worship projec that focuses on the Gospels?   Let us remember that to benefit fully from a such a study, we need to bring  the accounts to life and apply them in our life.  In addition consider what we can learn from Jesus'  final words as  a human. 

Next time: Learning From Jesus' Final Words

From the jw.org publications 

"Follow His Steps Closely" - THE NEEDY WIDOW IN THE TEMPLE

 Bring the account to life. (Read Mark 12:41) Picture the scene. It is Nisan 112, 33 C.E.-less than week before Jesus's death.  Jesus has spent much of the day teaching in the temple.  His religious opposers have not made it easy for him. Earlier, some of them questioned his authority.  Others tried to corner him with challenging questions.  (Mark 11:27-3; 12:13-34)  Now Jesus has moved to another  part of the temple.  Here -likely in the area called the Court of the Women-he can see the treasury chests along the walls of the court.  He sits down and begins observing the people as they put their contributions in the chests. He sees many rich people  depositing many coins. Perhaps he is close enough to hear a loud jingling as their coins drop into the chests.

Read Mark 12:42.  After awhile, one woman catches Jesus' attention. She is a poor, "needy widow." (Luke 21:2)  Life is very difficult for her; she likely struggles to obtain the basic necessities of life. Yet, she goes to one of the chests and puts in two small coins, which perhaps hardly makes a sound as they are dropped into the chest.  Jesus knows what she deposited-two lepta coins, the smallest coins in circulation at the time.  That is not even enough money to buy a single sparrow, among the cheapest birds sold for food. 

Read Mark 12:43, 33.  Jesus is deeply impressed by this widow. She he calls his disciples, draws their attention to the widow, and says: "This poor widow put more than all the others,"  he explains:"They [especially the rich people] all put in out of their surplus, but she, out of her want, put in everything she had, all she had to live on."    When this faithful widow gave her last bi of money that day, she was putting her life in Jehovah's hands.  

Next time: "Follow His Steps Closely" - Conclusion of THE NEEDY WIDOW IN THE TEMPLE

From the jw.org publicaitons

"Follow His Steps Closely" - Conclusion of HOW CAN WE FOLLOW JESUS' FOOTSTEPS CLOSELY?

 First, bring the Gospel accounts to life.  Use your  imagination to see, hear, and feel what was happening.  To help you do that, do some research in the study aids  provided by Jehgovah's organization.  Examine the context-the events that come before or follow after the passage you are studying.  Look for information that explains the background and the circumstances.  Compare the account you are studying with a parallel account in another Gospel.  Sometimes one Gospel writer includes a meaningful detail that another leaves out.

Second, apply the Gospel accounts in your life.   (John 13:17)  After you have carefully studied a Gospel account, ask yourself:  'Is there a lesson in this account that I can apply in my life?  How can I used this account to help someone else?  Try to think of a specific individual, and then at an appropriate time, lovingly and tactfully share the lesson you learned. 

Lert us consider  an example of how we can apply these two suggestions. We will examine the accounts of the needy widow whom Jesus observed in the temple.

Next time: "Follow His Steps Closely" -  THE NEEDY WIDOW IN THE TEMPLE

From the jw.org publications 

"Follow His Steps Closely" -HOW CAN WE FOLLOW JESUS' FOOTSETPS CLOSELY?''

 Before we can follow Jesus' footsteps closely, we must come to know him.  (Read John 17:3)  "Coming to know" Jesus is an ongoing process. We must become better and better acquainted with him-learning about his qualities, his thinking, and his standards.  No matter how long we have been in the truth, we must keep working at coming to know Jehovah and His Son. 

To help us to come know his Son, Jehovah lovingly included the four Gospels in his Word.  The Gospels contain a historical account of the life  and ministry of Jesus.  That account tells us what Jesus said, shows us what he did, and reveals to us how he felt.  These four books help us to "consider closely" the example of Jesus.  (Hebrews 12:3)  In effect, they contain the footsteps that Jesus left behind. So by examining the Gospels, we can come to know Jesus better and better. As a result, we can follow his footsteps closely.  

To benefit fully from the Gospels, we must do more than just read  them. We need to take the time to study them carefully and meditate on them deeply.  (Compare Joshua 1:8)  Let us discuss two suggestions that can help us to meditate on the Gospels and apply what we read in them. 

Next time: "Follow His Steps Closely" - Conclusion of HOW CAN WE FOLLOW JESUS' FOOTSTEPS CLOSELY?

From the jw.org publications

"Follow His Steps Closely"

 WHY FOLLOW JESUS' FOOTSTEPS?

Following Jesus' footsteps will draw us closer to Jehovah.  Why can we say that? First, Jesus set an outstanding  example of how to live ina way that pleases God.  (John 8:29)  So by following Jesus' footsteps, we will please Jehovah. And we can be sure that our heavenly Father will draw us close to those who try hard to be his friends.  - JAMES 4:8.

Second, Jesus imitated his Father perfectly.  That is why Jesus could say:  "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father also." (John 14:9)  When we  imitate Jesus' qualities and ways of dealing with others-for example, his  pity for a leperm his empathy for a woman with a grievous illness, his compassion for the bereaved-we are imitating Jehovah as well.  (Mark 1:40, 41; 5:25-34; John 11:33-35)   The more we become like Jehovah, the closer we draw to him. 

Following Jesus' footsteps helps us not to be distracted by this wicked world.  On  the final night of his earthly life, Jesus was able to say:  "I have conquered the world." (John 16:33)  He meant hat he had refused to allow himself to be influenced by the thinking, the goa;ls, and ther actions of this world.  Jesus never allowed himself to lose his focus on the earson he was sent to earth-to vindicate Jehovah.  What about us?  In this world, there are many things that could distract us. But if like Jesus, we keep focused on being Jehovah's   on doing Jehovah's will, we  will conquer the world. - 1 JOHN 5:5.

Following Jesus' footsteps leads to everlasting life.   When a rich you man asked what he needed to do to gain everlasting life, Jesus replied:  "Come be my follower." (Matthew 19:16-21)  To some Jews who did not believe that he was the Christ, Jesus said: "My sheep . . . follow e.  I give them everlasting life.: (John 10:24-29) Nicodemus, a member of the Sanhedrin who  became interested in Jesus' teachings, Jesus said that those  "excercising faith in him" would have everlasting life." (John 3:16)  We exercise faith in Jesus by acting on what he taught both by word and by example.  If we do that, we stay on the road to everlasting life. - MATTHEW 7:14.

Next time: "Follow His Steps Closely" - HOW CAN WE FOLLOW JESUS' FOOTSTEPS CLOSELY? 

From the jw.org publications

"Follow His Steps Closely"

 WHAT DOES IT MEAM TO FOLLOW JESUS' FOOTSTEPS?

What does it mean to follow someone's footsteps?  In the Bible, the words "walk" and "feet" at times refer to a person's course of life.  (Genesis 6:9; Proverbs 4:26)  The example a person sets may be compared to footprints, or footsteps, that he leaves behind as he walks. So to follow someone's footsteps means to follow  his example.,, to imitate him.

What, then, does it mean to follow Jesus' footsteps?  Put simply, it means to imitate his example.  In our theme text, the apostle Peter is specificallty  commenting on the fine example Jesus set in the endurance of suffering; however, there are many other ways in which we can imitate Jesus.  (1 Peter 2:18-25)  Really, Jesus' entire life course-everything he said and did-is an example for us to follow. 

As imperfect humans, can we really follow Jesus' example?   Yes, we can.  Recall that Peter urges us "to follow [Jesus'] steps closely" - not perfectly.  If we follow his footsteps carefully, doing the best we can as imperfect humans, we will be heeding the apostle John's words: "Go on walking just as that one [Jesus] walked." - 1 JOHN 2:6.

Next time: "Follow His Steps Closely" - WHY FOLLOW JESUS' FOOTSTEPS?

From the jw.org publicaitons

"Follow His Steps Closely"

 "Christ suffered for you, leaving a model for you to follow his steps closely." - 1 PETER 2:21. 

IMAGINe that you are  part of a group hiking through a dangerous, snow-covered wilderness.  An experienced guide is leading  you. As he walks, he leaves behind tracks, or footprints, in the soft snow. At some point, you cannot see the guide!  But  you do not panic.  Rather, you and your fellow hikers follow the guide's footprints as closely as you can! 

As true Christians, we are, in a sense, hiking through a dangerous wilderness-this wicked world. Fortunately, Jehovah has provided the perfect Guide-His Son, Jesus Christ,whose steps we can follow closely.  (1 Peter 2:21)  According to one Bible reference work, Peter here uses the metaphor of a guide. Leaving behind tracks, Jesus has left behind footprints, or footsteps, that we can follow.  Let us consider three questions about following his footsteps-what? why? and how?

Next time: "Follow His Footsteps Closely" - WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO FOLLOW JESUS FOOTSTEPS?

From the jw.org publications 

Jehovah Will Protect You - How?

 JEHOVAH WILL CONTINUE TO PROTECT US

The world under Satan's control has many reasons to hate us.  We remain strictly neutral politically and do not take up arms.  We proclaim God's name, promote his Kingdom as the only hope for peace, and uphold his righteous standards.  We expose the world's ruler as a monstrous liar and murderer.  (John 8:44)  And we announce the imminent destruction of Satan's world.  Yet, we will never be silenced by Satan and his followers. On the contrary, we will keep praising Jehovah, using every means at our disposal to do so!  As powerful as Satan is, he has not been able to prevent the Kingdom message from reaching people around the globe.  Only Jehovah's protection can account for that. - Read ISAIAH 54:15, 17. 

What lies ahead? During the great tribulation, Jehovah will save us in two amazing ways.  First, he will save his loyal servants during the time when he causes the kings of the eath to destroy Babylon the Great, the empire of false religion.  (Revelation 17:16-18; 18:2, 4)  Then, he will save his people when he annihilates the remaining elements of Satan's world at Armageddon. - REVELATION 7:9, 10; 16:14, 16. 

When we remain close to Jehovah, Satan can do us no lasting harm. In fact, he is the one who will suffer permanent harm.  (Romans 16:20)  So  put on the suit of armor-and leave it on!  Do not try to fight the battle on your own.  Support your brothers and sisters. And follow Jehovah's direction. If you do, you can be confident that your loving heavenly Father will strengthen uyou and protect you. - ISAIAH 41:10. 

Next time: "Follow His Steps Closely"

From the jw.org publications

Jehovah Will Protect You - How?

 WE DO NOT HAVE TO FIGHT ALONE

An experienced soldier knows that he cannot successfully fight a massive army on his own; he needs the help of his fellow soldiers.  Similarly, we cannot successfully  resist Satan and his followers on our own; we need the support of our brothers and sisters. Jehovah  has provided us with a worldwide  "association of brothers" who are there to help us. - 1 PETER 2:17. 

One way we can receive support is by attending our meetings.  (Read Hebrews 10:24, 25.)  When we feel discouraged- aswe all do at times -meetings  can lift our spirits.  We are encouaged by the heartfelt comments given by our brothes and sisters.  The Bible-based talks and demonstrations that they presents strengthen our determination to serve Jehovah.  And our upbuilding conversations before and after the meeting   encourage us.  (1 Thessalonians 5:14)  In addition, our meetings  give us the opportunity to have the joy that comes from helping others.  (Acts 20:35; Romans 1:11, 12)  Our meetings helps us in other ways too. They improve  our battle skills, so to speak, and by equipping us for the ministry.  For example, we learn to use the tools in our Teaching Toolbox effectively.  So prepare well for congregation meetings.  During the meeting, listen carefully.  After the meeting, apply the training you received. By doing such things, you will become  "a fine soldier of Christ  Jesus." - 2 Timothy 2:3. 

We also have the support of myriads of powerful angels.  Think of what just one angel can do! (Isaiah 37:36)  Now consider what a mighty army of angels would be able to accomplish.  No man or demon is equal to Jehovah's powerful fighting force. It has been said that one faithful Witness plus Jehovah equals the majority.  (Judges 6:16)  How true that is!  Keep those thoughts in mind when you feel intimidated by something a workmate, a scoolmate, or an unbelieving relative says or does.  Remember, you are not aline in this fight. You are fllowing Jehovah's direction. 

Next time: Jehovah Will Protect You - How? - JEHOVAH WILL CONTINUE TO PROTECT US

From the jw.org  publications

Jehovah Will Protect You - How? - Concluision of The Armor-What Is it? ,

 Paul also urges us to have our feet shod in readiness to declare the good news of peace.   In other words, we should always be ready to preach the  Kingdom good news.  When we share the Bible's message with others, our own faith is strenghtened. It is truly encouraging   to see how Jehovah's people around the earth are looking for opportunities to declare the good news-when at work, at school, in business territory and when preaching from house to house, shopping, visiting unbelieving relatives, talking to casual acquaintances, and evene when confined at home for a time.  If we were to give in to fear and stop preaching, we would be like a soldier who removed his sandals  during the battle; his feet would easily get injured. As a result, he would be more vulnerable to attack, and he woud  not be able to follow the orders of his commander. 

The large shield of faith represents the faith we have in Jehovah.  We trust that he will fulfill all his promises. That faith will help us  "to extinguish  all the one's burning  arrows."  Why do we need to carry this large shield?  Because it protects us from being swayed byu the teachings of apostates or from being intimidated by snide remarks of cynics.  Without faith, we will not have the strength to resist when others try to persuade us to ignore Jehovah's standards.  On the other hand, each time we stand up for our faith at work or at school, we are carrying our shield.  (1 Peter 3:15)  Each time we turn down a better-paying job that would interfere with our routine of worship, we are carrying our shield.  (Hebrews 13:5, 6)  And each time we serve Jehovah despite oppostion, we are being protected by our shield. - 1 THESSALONIANS 2:2.

The helmet of salvation is the hope Jehovah gives us-the hope that he will save us from death and will reward all those who do his will.  (1 Thessalonians 5:8; 1 Timothuy 4:10; Titus 1:1, 2)  Just as a literal helmet protects a soldier's head, the hope of salvation protects our thinking ability.  In what way? That hope keeps us focused on God's promises and helps us to see  problems in the right perspective.  How do we wear the helmet?  We do so by keeping our thinking in harmony with God's thoughts.  For example, we place our hope, not on uncertain riches, but on God. - PSALM 26:2; 104:34;  1  TIMOTHY 6:17. 

The sword of the spirit  is God's Word, the Bible.  That sword has the power to cut through deception of all kinds and to liberate people from being enslaved to false teachings and harmful habits.  (2 Corinthians 10:4, 5; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17; Hebrews 4:12)  We  learn  to use that sword properly through personal study and through the training we receive  from God's organization.  ( 1 Timothy 2:15)   In addition to the suit of armor, Jehovah gives us another powerful form of protection. What is it? 

Next time: Jehovah Will Protect You - How? - WE DO NOT HAVE TO FIGHT ALONE

From the jw.org publications 

Jehovah Will Protect You - How? - JEHOVAH PROVIDES A SUIT OF ARMOR

 Jehovah has made avaiable to us a suit of armor that can protect us from Satan's attacks.  (Read Ephesians 6:13-17)  This spiritual armor is strong and effective!  But it will protect us only if we put on each piece of the armor-and keep it on.  What does each piece represent? Let us take a closer look! 

The Armor -What Is It?

The belt of truth represents the truths found in God's Word, the Bible.  Why must we weat this belt?  Because Satan is "the father of the lie." (John 8:44)  He has had thousands of years to practice his lying and has misled "the entire inhabited earth"! (Revelation 12:9)  But the truths contained in the Bible protect us from being deceived.  How do we wear this symbolic belt?  We do so by learning the truth about Jehovah, by worshipping him "with spirit and truth," and  by conducting ourselves honestly in all things. - JOHN 4:24; EPHESIANS 4:25.; HEBREWS 13:18.

6 The breastplate of righteousness  represents Jehovah's righteous standards.  Why must we wear the breastplate? Just asbreastplate protects the lteral heart of a soldier from being pierced, the breastplate protects our figuratvie heart, or inner person, from the corrupting influences of this world.  (Proverbs 4:23)  Jehovah expects us to love and serve him with our whole heart. (Matthew 22:36, 37)  So Satan tries to divide  our heart by getting us to love the things this world offers-things that Jehovah hates.  (James 4:4; 1 John 2:115, 16)   And if that does not work, he will try to bully us into going against Jehovah's standards. 

We wear the breastplate of righteousness by accepting Jehovah's standards of right and wrong and by living accordingly to those standards.  (Psalm 97:10)   Some may feel that Jehovah's standards are restrictive. But if we were to stop applying Bible principles in our lives, we would be like a soldier who removed his breastplat  in the middle of the battle because he  thought it was too heavy.  How foolish that would be!  To those who love Jehovah, his commandments are "not burdensome," but lifesaving. -  1 JOHN 5:3.

Next time: Jehovah Will Protect You - How? - Conclusion of JEHOVAH PROVIDES A SUIT OF ARMOR

From the j.w. org publications 

Jehovah Will Protect You -How?

 "The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the wicked one." - 2 THESSALONIANS 3:3.

ON THE last night of his life as a man, Jesus was thinking about the challenges that his disciples would face.  Moved by his love for his friends, Jesus asked his Father to "watch over them because of the wicked one."  (John 17:14, 15)  Jesus knew that after he returned to heaven, Satan the Devil would continue to wage war against any who wanted to serve Jehovah.  Clearly, Jehovah's people  would need protection.

Jehovah answered Jesus' prayer because of his love for His Son.  If we try our best to please Jehovah, he will love us too, and he will pay attention to our prayers for help and protection.  As a concerned family Head, Jehovah will continue to care lovinly for his children.  HIs very name, or reputation is at stake!

We need Jehovah's protection as never before.  Satan has been cast out of heaven, "having great anger."  (Revelation 12:12)  He has managed to convince some who persecute us that they are offering "a sacred service to God." (John 16:2) Others, who do not believe in God, persecute us because we do not fit into this world's mold. Whatever the case,w e can be confident. Why? Because God's Word says: "The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the wicked one." (2 Thessalonians 3:3)   How does Jehovah protect us?  Let us discuss two ways. 

Next time: Jehovah Will Protect You -How? - JEHOVAH PROVIDES A SUIT OF ARMOR

From the jw.org publications

Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred

 HAPPY WHEN HATED

Jesus said: "Happy are you  whenever men hate you."  (Luke 6:22) We do not choose to be hated.  We are not trying to be martyers.  So why can we be happy when hated?  Consider three reasons.  First, we endure, we gain God's approval. (1 Peter 4:13, 14)  Second, our faith is refined and becomes stronger. (1 Peter 1:7)  And third, we will receive a priceless reward - everlasting life. - ROMANS 2:6, 7.

  Soon after Jesus's resurrection, the apostles experienced the happiness he spoke about.  After being flogged and ordered to stop preaching, the rejoiced.  Why? "Because they had been counted worthy to be dishonored in behalf of [Jesus'] name."  (Acts 5:40-42)   They loved their Master more than they feared the hatred of their enemies.  And they showed their love by proclaiming the good news "without letup."  Many of our brothes today continue to serve faithfully despite difficulties.  They know that Jehovah will not forget their work and their love for his name. - HEBREWS 6:10. 

The world will hate us for as long as this system lasts.  (John 5:19)  But we do not need to be fearful.  As we will see in the next article, Jehovah "will strengthen . . . and protects" his loyal ones.  (2 Thessalonians 3:3)  So let us continue to love Jehoah, love our brothers and sisters, and love even our enemies.  When we follow this counsel, we will remain united and spiritually strong, we will bring honor to Jehovah, ad we will prove that love is far more powerful than hate. 

Next time: Jehovah Will Protect You - How?

From the jw.org publications

Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - LOVE FOR OUR ENEMIES HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED - Conclusion

 At the Kingdom Hall, Yasmeen's spiritual family conforted and strengthened her.  The elders urged her to apply the words found at Romans 12:17-21. (Read.)  "It was hard, says Yasmeen.  "But I asked Jehovah to help me, and I did my best to apply what the Bible says:  So when my husband spitefully threw dirt in the kitchen, I cleaned it up.  When he insulted me, I rplied mildly. And when he was sick, I cared for him. 

Yasmeen  was rewarded for showing love to her husband. She says:  "My husband started to trust me more because he knew I  would always tell the truth. He began to listen to me repectfully when we talked about religion, and he agreed to make peace at home.  Now he tells me to enjoy the congregation meetings.  Our family life has improved dramatically, and we enjoy genuine tranquility.  My hope is that my husband will open his heart to the truth and join me in serving Jehovah." 

Yasmeen's example shows that love "bears all things. . . .hopes all things, endures all things. (1 Corinthians 13:4, 7) Hatred can be powerful and hurtful, but love is much stronger. It wins hearts. And it brings joy to Jehovah's heart. But even if opposers continue to face us, we can still be happy.  How so?

Next time: Love Helps Us to Endure - HAPPY WHEN HATED

From the j.w.org publications 

Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - LOVE FOR OUR ENEMIES HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED

 Jesus told his followers to love their enemies.  (Matthew 5:44,45)  Is that easy to do? By no mean! But it is possible with the help of God's spirit.  The fruitage of God's spirit includes love as well as patience, kindness, mildness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22, 23) These qualities help us to endure hatred.  Many opposers  have had a change of heart because a believing husband, wife, child, or neighbor displayed those godly qualities.  Many opposers have eveb become our dear brothers and sisters. So if you it hard to love those who hate you just because you are serving Jehovah, pray for holy spirit.   (Luke 11:13) And be fully convinced that God's way is always best. - PROVERBS 3:5-78.

Consider the example of Yasmee, who lives in the Middle Eastr..  When she became one of Jehovah's Witneses, her husband though she had been deceived, and he tried to stop her from serving God.  He insulted her and urged relatives as well as a clergyman and a sorcerer to threaten her and accuse her of breaking up her family.  Her husband even shouted abuses at the brothers during a congregation meeting! Yasmeen often wept because she was treated so unkindly. 

Next time: Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - Conclusion of LOVE FOR OUR ENEMIES HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED

From the jw.org publications 

Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred

 LOVE FOR FELLOW WORKERS HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED

On the night before he died, Jesus reminded his disciples to love one another.  (Read John 15:12, 13)  He knew that self-sacrificing love would them to stay united and to endure the world's hatred.  Consider the example of the congregation in Thessalonica.  From the time it was formed, its members were persecuted. Yet, the brothers and sisters there became examples of integrity and love.  (1 Thessalonians 1:3, 6, 7)  Paul encouraged them to continue showing love, even  "in fuller measure."  (1 Thessalonians 4:9, 10)  Love would move them to console the depressed and support the weak.  (1 Thessalonians 5:14)  They followed Paul's instructions, for in his second letter, written about a year later, Paul could say to them:  "The love of each and every one of you is increasing toward one another. (2 Thessalonians 1:3-5)  Their love helped them toendure hardship and persecution.

Consider the experience of Danylo, mentioned earlier, and his wife.  When their town became engulfed in war, they continued to attend the meetings, to preach as best they could, and to share what food tehy had with their brothers and sisters.  Then one day, Danylo was approached by armed soldierrs.  "They demanded that I renounce my faith," says Danylo. When I refused, the beat me and  pretended to shoot me, firing over my head.  Before leaving, they threatened to return to rape my wife.  But our brothers quickly put us on a trainto another town.  I will never forget the love of those dear brothers. And when we arrived at the new town, the local brothers gave us food and helped me to find a job and a home! As a result, we were able to provide refuge for other Witnesses fleeing the war zone." Such  experiences show that our Christian love and help to endure hatred.

Next time:Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - LOVE FOR OUR ENEMIES HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED

From the jw.org publications

Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - LOVE FOR JEHOVAH HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED - Conclusion

  Perhaps one of our biggest tests come from members of our own  family.  When we begin to show interest in the truth, some family members may think that we have been misled.  Others may think that we have lost our mind.  (Compare Mark 3:21.)  They may even violently oppose us.  This negative reaction should not surprise us.  Jesus said: "A man's enemiws will be those of his own household." (Matthew 10:36)   Of course,  regardless of how our relatives view us, we refuse to treat them as our enemies.  On the contrary, as our love for Jehovah grows, so does our love for people.  (Matthew 27:31-39)  But we will never compromise our standards by ignoring the Bible laws and principles just to please another human. 

Georgina quoted earlier mangaged to stand firm despite severe opposition from her mother.  Georgina explains:  "My mother and I began studying the Bible with the Witnesses. But six moths later when I wantedto attend meetings, my mother's attitude changed drastically.  I discovered that she was in contact with apostates, and she used their arguments when she talked to me.  She also insult me, pull my hair, chok me, and throw away my literature.  After I turned 15, I got baptized.  My mother tried to stop me from serving Jehovah by putting me in a home with other teens, some of whom took drugs and committed crimes.  Opposition is especially hard to deal with when it somes from someone who should love you and care for  you." 

How did Georgina cope?  She says:  "The day my mother turned against me, I had just finished reading the entire BIble. I was now fully convinced that I had found the truth, and I felt very close to Jehovah.  I often prayed to him, and he heard me.  When I was living in that home, a sister invited me to her house, and we studied the Bible together. All the while, I was strengthened by the brothers and sisters at the Kingdom Hall.  They made me part of their  families.  I saw firsthand that Jehovah is stronger than our opposers, not matter who they are."

The apostle Paul wrote that nothing can "separate us from God's love that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38, 39) Even though we may suffer for a time, Jehovahg will alkways be at our  side to comfort and strengthen us.  And as Georgina's experience shows, Jehovah will also help us by means of our precious spiritual family. 

Next time: Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - LOVE FOR FELLOW WORSHIPPERS HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED

From the jw.org publications

Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - LOVE FOR JEHOVAH HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED

 On the night before his enemies put him to death, Jesus said to his loyal followers:  "I love the Father, [so] I am doing just as the Father has commanded me to do."  ( John 14:31) Jesus'  love for Jehovah strenghtened him to face the trials that lay ahead.  Our love for Jehovah can do the same for us. 

Love for God has always helped Jehovah's servants to endure persecution.  For instance, when the apostles were commanded by the powerful Jewish supreme court to stop preaching, Love for God moved them to "obey God as ruler rather than men." (Acts 5:29; 1 John 5:3)  Such unbreakable love also strengthened  our brothers today, many of whom are standing firm against cruel and powerful governments. Instead of being discouraged, we count it as a privilege to endure the world's hatred. - ACTS 5:41; read ROMANS 5:3-5. 

Next time: Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred - LOVE FOR JEHOVAH HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred

 "These things I command you, that you love one another.  If the world hates you, you will know that it hated me before it hated you." - JOHN 15:17, 18. 

JEHOVAH created us to love and to be loved.  So when someone hates us, we feel hurt and perhaps even afraid.  For examle, Georgina, who lives in Europe, says:  "When I was 14, my mother hated me for serving Jehovah.  I felt rejected and began doubting that I was a good person." A brother named Danylo writes: "When soldiers hit me, insultled me, and threatened me because I was one of  Jehovah's Witnesses, I felt frightened and humiliated."  Such hatred hurts, but it does not suprise us.  Jesus foretold that we would be hated. - Read MATTHEW 24:9. 

The world hates Jesus' followers.  Why? Because   like Jesus, we no part of the world," (John 15:17-19)   As a result, while we respect human governments, we refuse to worship them or the emblems that represent them.  We give Jehovah our exclusive devotion.  We uphold God right to rule mankind-a right that Satan and his "offspring" vigorously challenge.  (Genesis 3:1-5, 15)  We preach that God's Kingdom is mankind's only hope and that the Kingdom will soon cruse all of those who oppose it.  (Daniel 2:44; Revelation 19:19-21)  That message is good news to the meek but bad news to the wicked. - PSALM 37:10, 11.

We are also hated because we live by God's righteous standards. These standards contrast sharply with the world's degraded morals.  For example, many people now openly approve of grossly immoral practices similar to ones for which God destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah!  (Jude 7)  Because we hold on to the Bible's standards regarding such practices, many people ridicule us and call us intolerant. - 1 PETER 4:3, 4.

What can helpe us to endure when people hate us and insult us?  We need to have strong faith that Jehovah will help us.  Like a shield, our faith can "extinguish all the wicked one's burning arrows." (Ephesians  6:16)   But we need more than faith. We also need love.  Why? Because love "does not become provoked." It bears and endures all hurtful things. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 13)  Let us now see how love for Jehovah, love for our fellow worshippers, and even love for our enemies help us to endure hatred.

Next time: Love Helps Us to Encdure Hatred - LOVE FOR JEHOVAH HELPS US TO ENDURE HATRED

From the jw.org publications

Bible Verses Explained -Conclsuion of Meaing of Proverbs 3:5, 6

 "In all your ways take notice of him." We should get God's viewpoint in every significant aspect of our life and in every  important decision we make.  We  do this by praying  to him for guidance and by following what he says in his Word, the Bible. - PSALM 25:4 2 TIMOTHY 3:16. 

"He will make your paths straight." God makes our paths straight by helping us to live by his righteous standards.  (Proverbs 11:5) We thus avoid needless pitfalls and enjoy a  much  happier life. - PSALM 19:7, 8; ISAIAH 48:17, 18.

Context of Proverbs 3:5, 6

The Bible book of Proverbs contains basic principles for a life that is happy and successful in God's eyes. The first nine chapters ar e written as fatherly advice to a beloved son.  Chapter 3 highlights the benefits that come to those who value and apply our Creator's wisdom. - PROVERBS 3:13-26.

Next time: Love Helps Us to Endure Hatred

From the jw.org publications

Bible Verses Explained

 Proverbs 3:5, 6-"Lean Not on Your Own Understanding

"Trust in  Jehovah with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.  In all ytour ways take  notice of him, and he will set your paths straight.: - PROVERBS 3:5, 6, New World Translation.

 "Trust in the Lord With all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." -  PROVERBS 3:5, 6, New International Translation.

Meaning of Proverbs 3:5, 6

We should look to Jehovah God for direction rather than making important decisions all on our own. 

"Trust in  Jehovah will all your heart."  We show that we trust God when we do things his way.   We must trust God completely, with our whole heart.  In the Bible, the heart usuallyt refers to the inner self, which includes a person's emotions, motivations, thinking, and attitude.  Therefore, to trust God with all our heart involves more than our feelings. It is a choice we make because we are fully convinced that our Creator knows what is best for us. - ROMANS 12:1.

    "Do not rely on your own understanding."   We need to trust God  because we cannot depend on our own imperfect reasoning.  If we rely solely on ourselves or let feelings alone determine our course,  we might make choices that initially appear good, but  ultimately bring bad results.  (Proverbs 14:12; Jeremiah 17:9 )  God's wisdom is far superior to ours.  (Isaiah 55:8, 9) When we are guided buy his thinking, oru lives will be successful.  - PSALM 1:1-3; PROVERBS 2:6-9;  16:20.

Next time: Bible Verses Explained - Meaning of Proverbs 3:5, 6 - Conclusion

 From the jw.org publications 

What Is the Golden Rule?

Is the Golden Rule simply a matter of give-and-take?

No. The emphasis of the Golden Rule is on giving. When Jesus gave the Golden Rule, he was speaking about how to treat people in general  but even one's enemies.  (Luke 6:27-31, 35)  Thus the Golden Rule encourages people to do good to all.

How can you apply the Golden Rule?

1. Be observant.  Pay close attention to those around you.  For instance, you may see someone struggling to carry groceries, hear of a neighbor who is hospitalized, or notice that a workmate  is discouraged. When you "look out . . . for the interests of others," you will likely find opportunities to say or do something helpful. - Philiippians 2:4. 

2. Be empathetic.  Imagine yourself in the other person's place.  How would you feel if youy were in the same situation? (Romans 12:15)  When you try to understand the feeling of others, you may feel moved to help them. 

3. Be flexible.  Keep in mind that everyone is different.  What others would  like to have done for them may not be the same as what you would want to have done for you. So, out of the many things you could do, try to choose what they  will appreciate most. - 1 CORINTHIANS 10:24. 

Next time: Bible Verses Explained

From the jw.org publications

  

What Is the Golden Rule?

 The Bible's answer

The ter "Golden Rule" does not appear in the Bible.  However, many use this term to refer to a rule of conduct that Jesus taught.  In his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said: "Do unto others as you would want them to do to you."  Matthew 7:12; Luke 6:31.  

What is the meaning of the Golden Rule?

The Golden Rule encourages us to treat others as we would like to treat us.   For instance, most people appreciate it when others treat them with respect, kindness, and love. Logically, then, we should  "do the same way" to others. - LUKE 6:31.  

Why is the Golden Rule beneficial?

The Golden Rule applies in virtually all situations.  For example, it can .  . . 

 * Strengthen marriages. - EPHESIANS 5:28, 33. 

* Guide parents when raising their children. - EPHESIANS 6:4.

* Promote good relations between friends, neighbors, and workmates. - PROVERBS 3:27, 28; COLOSSIANS 3:13. 

The Golden Rule captures the spirit behind a major portion of wha tis commonly called the Old Testament.     Jesus' rule of conduct "is what the Law (the first  five books of the Bible] and the Prophets [the prophetic books] mean."  ( Matthew 7:12) In other words the Golden Rule sums up a basic tenet of the Old Testamenent: Love of neighbor. - ROMANS 13:8-10. 

 Next time: Is the Golden Rule simply a matter of give-and-take?

From the jw.org publications

 

Medical Alternatives to Blood Transfusions -Conclusion

 A month after the Moscow convention, doctors from various countries attended the Fourth Belomorsk Symposium of Anesthesiologists and Intensive Care Physicians of  the Northwest Region of Russia, in the city Arkhangel'sk.  HIS set up the same information booth there, and against it attracted much attention.  On seeing the materials presented, a doctor from St. Petersburg exclaimed:  "This is just what we need!"  She expressed regret that simply out of force of habit, some of her colleagues continue to administer transfusions to burn patients.  "Your materials would be very useful at the conference on treatment of burn patients that is being planned for St. Petersburg,"  she added enthusiastically. 

The world over, more and more doctors are seeing the advantages of bloodless medicine and bloodless surgery. Time will tell whether these will one day be the universal gold standard in medical treatment.  

Next tme: What Is the Golden Rule? The Bible's answer

From the jw.org publications

Medical Alternatives to Blood Transfusions

 LEADING experts from over 40 countries gathered in Moscow for the 60 Jubliee International Congress of  the European Society for Cardiovascular and Endovascular Surgery on May 20-22, 2011.  "For doctors, an event of this scale is as meaningful as are the Olymics for athletes," stated a Russian TV journalist.

Attracting great attention on all three days of the convention was a booth supplying information on medical alternatives to blood transfusions.  Hospital Information Services for Jehovah's Witnesses  (HIS0 staffed this booth.  From it, doctors eagerly took hundreds of information folders, books, DVD's, and medical articles of this important topic.  Demand was especially strong for the DVD featuring the video entitled Transfusion-Alternative Strategies-Simple, Safe, Effective.

Many doctors who visited the booth agreed that there is a need for blood conservation in Surgical practice.  A cardiac surgeon from Italy who spoke at the congress said that he is wlll acquainted with Jehovah's Witnesses and has successfully completed about 70 bloodless heart operations on Witness patients.  He also said that bloodless surgery is perfectly normal in his clinic.  A professor of the Dutsches Herzzentrum Berlin (German Heart Institute Berlin)  took a copyof   the DVD for himself and another for a colleague. He told the audience that he had recently performed bloodless surgery ona baby weighing just  5.5  pounds (2.5 kg); and his clinic  has performed heart surgery on babies weighing even less.

Next time:  Medical Alteratives to Blood Transfusions -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications