"Speak, for Your Servant Is Listening" - Conclusion

 That night in Shiloh was milestone in Samuel's life, for then, he began to know Jehovah in a special sense, becoming God's own prophet and spokesman. At first, the boy was afraid to deliver Jehovah's message to Eli, for it was a final pronouncement that the prophecy against that family was soon to come true. But Samuel mustered the courage- and Eli humbly acquiesced to the divine judgment. Before long, everything Jehovah had said was fulfilled: Israel went to war with the Philistines, Hophni and Phinehas were both killed on the same day, and Eli himself died on learning that Jehovah's sacred Ark had been captured. - 1 Samuel 3:10-18; 4:1-18.

However, Samuel's reputation as a faithful prophet only grew. "Jehovah himself proved to be with him," the account says, adding that Jehovah let none of Samuel's prophecies fail. -Read 1 SAMUEL 3:19.

Next time: "Samuel Called on Jehovah"

From the jw.org publications

"Speak, for Your Servant Is Listening"

 It was nearly morning but still dark; the flickering light of the tent's great lamp was still burning. In the stillness, Samuel heard a voice calling is name. He thought it was Eli who was now very old and nearly blind. Samuel got up; and "went running" to the old man. Can you see the boy in your mind's eye, hurrying to see what Eli needed? It is touching to note that Samuel treated Eli with respect and kindness. In spite of all his sins, Eli was still Jehovah's high priest. - 1 Samuel 3:2-5.

Samuel woke Eli, saying: "Here I am, for you called me." But Eli said that he had not called and sent the boy back to bed. Well, the same thing happened again and then again! Finally, Eli realized what was going on. It had become rare for Jehovah to send a vision or a prophetic message to his people, and it is not hard to see why. But Eli knew that Jehovah was speaking to again-to this boy! Eli told Samuel to go back to bed and instructed him on how to answer properly. Samuel obeyed. Soon he heard the voice calling: "Samuel, Samuel!" the boy answered: "Speak, for your servant is listening." -1 SAMUEL 3:1, 5-10.

Jehovah did, at last, have a servant in Shiloh who was listening. That became Samuel's life pattern. Is it yours? We do not have to wait for a supernatural voice in the night to speak to us. Today, God's voice is always there for us in a sense. It is there in his completed Word, the Bible. The more we listen to God and respond, the more our faith will grow. So it was with Samuel.

Next time: "Speak, for Your Servant Is Listening" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

1 S

Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption - Conclusion

 It would have been easy for Samuel to reason that if the high priest his sons give in to sin, he might as well do whatever he wished. But the corruption of others, including those in positions of authority, is never an excuse to sin. Today, many Christian youths follow Samuel's example and keep "growing up with Jehovah"-even when some around them fail to set a good example. 

How did such a course work out for Samuel? We read: "All the while the boy Samuel was growing bigger and more likeable both from Jehovah's standpoint and from that of men." (1 Samuel 2:26) So Samuel was well-liked, at least by those who opinions mattered. Jehovah himself cherished this boy for his faithful course. And Samuel surely knew that his God would act against all the badness going on in Shiloh, but perhaps he wondered when. One night, such questions met an answer. 

Next time: "Speak, for Your Servant Is Listening"

From the jw.org publications

Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption - Continue

 Matters reached such a point that Jehovah sent "a man of God," an unnamed prophet, to Eli with a strong message of judgment. Jehovah told Eli: "You keep honoring your sons more than me." God thus foretold that Eli's wicked sons would die on the same day and that Eli's family would suffer greatly, even losing is privilege in the priestly class.  Did this powerful warning bring about a change in that family? The record reveals no such change of heart. -1 Samuel 2:27-31.

How did all this corruption affect young Samuel? From time to time in this dark account, we find bright rays of light, good news about Samuel's growth and progress. Recall that at 1 Samuel 2:18, we read that Samuel was faithfully "ministering before Jehovah, as a boy." Even at that early age, Samuel centered his life on his service to God. In verse 21 of the same chapter, we read something even more heartwarming: The boy Samuel continued growing up with Jehovah." As he grew, his bond with his heavenly Father got stronger.  Such a close personal relationship with Jehovah is the surest protection against any form of corruption.

Next time: Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption - Continue

 Imagine young Samuel watching wide-eyed, as such gross abuses went on uncorrected. How many people did he see-including poor, humble, downtrodden fold-approaching that sacred tabernacle in hopes of finding some spiritual comfort and strength, only to leave disappointed, hurt, or humiliated? and how did he feel when he learned that Hophni and Phinehas also disregarded Jehovah's laws on sexual immorality, as they had sexual relations with some of the women who were serving there at the tabernacle? (Samuel 2:22) Perhaps he looked hopefully to Eli to do something about it.

Eli was in the best position to address the growing disaster. As high priest, he was responsible for what took place at the tabernacle. As a father, he had the obligation to correct his sons. After all, they were hurting themselves as well as countless others in the land. However, Eli failed on both counts, as a father and as high priest. He offered his sons only a bland weak scolding. (Read 1 Samuel 2:23-25) But his sons needed far stronger discipline. They were committing sins worthy of death?

Next time: Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption -Continue

From the jw.org publication

 

Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption

 At a young age, Samuel witnessed genuine wickedness and corruption. Eli had two sons named Hophni and Phinehas. Samuel's account reads: "The sons of Eli were good-for-nothing men; they did not acknowledge Jehovah."  (1 Samuel 2:12) The two thoughts in this verse go hand in hand. Hophni and Phinehas were "good-for-nothing men"-literally "sons of worthlessness"-because they had no regard for Jehovah. They thought nothing of his righteous standards and requirements. From that one failing sprang all their other sins.

God's Law was specific about the priests' duties and the way they to offer sacrifices at this tabernacle. For good reason! Those sacrifices represented God's provisions to forgive sins so that people could be clean in his eyes, eligible for his blessing and guidance. But Hophni and Phinehas led their fellow priests to treat the offering with great disrespect.

Next time: Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"Ministering Before Jehovah as a Boy" Conclusion

 We can picture the boy growing bigger and bigger and exploring the hills around Shiloh. As he gazed down on the town and the valley that spread out below it on one side, his heart likely swelled with joy and pride when he caught sight of Jehovah's tabernacle. That tabernacle was a sacred place indeed.  Built nearly 400 years earlier under the direction of Moses himself, it was the one center for the pure worship of Jehovah in all the world.

Young Samuel grew to love the tabernacle. In the account he later wrote, we read: "Samuel was ministering before Jehovah, as a boy, having a linen ephod girded on."  (1 Samuel 2:18) That simple sleeveless garment evidently indicated that Samuel had assisted the priest at the tabernacle. Although not all of the priestly class, Samuel had duties that included opening the doors to the tabernacle courtyard in the morning and attending to elderly Eli. As much as he enjoyed the privileges, though, in time his innocent heart became troubled. Something was terribly wrong at Jehovah's house. 

Next time: Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption

From the jw.org publications

"Ministering Before Jehovah as a Boy" -Continue

 Furthermore, Hannah and Elkanah never forgot their beloved firstborn, whose very birth as answer to a prayer.  Hannah had asked God for a son, promising to dedicate the boy to God in a life of sacred service. When visiting each year, Hannah brought Samuel a new sleeveless coat she had made for his tabernacle service. The little boy surely cherished those visits. He no doubt thrived on his parents' loving encouragement and guidance as they taught him what a privilege it was to serve Jehovah in that unique place.

Parents today can learn a lot from Hannah and Elkanah. It is common for parents to focus all their childbearing efforts on material concerns while ignoring spiritual needs. But Samuel's parents put spiritual needs first, and that a great bearing on the kind of man their son grew up to be. -  Read PROVERBS 22:6.

Next time: "Ministering Before Jehovah as a Boy" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

"Ministering Before Jehovah as a Boy"

 Samuel had an unusual childhood. Shortly after he was weaned, at perhaps three years of age or a little more, he began a life of service at the sacred tabernacle of Jehovah at Shiloh, over 20 miles from his home in Ramah. His parents Elkanah and Hannah, dedicated the boy to Jehovah in a special form of service, making him a lifelong Nazirite. Did this mean that Samuel was cast off, unloved by his parents?

Far from it! They knew that their son would be cared for at Shiloh. High Priest Eli no doubt supervised matters, for Samuel worked closely with him. There was also a number of women who served in some connection with the tabernacle, evidently in an organized way. - EXODUS 38:8; JUDGES 11:34-40. 

Next time: "Ministering Before Jehovah as a Boy" - Continue

From the jw.org publications 

He "Continued Growing Up With Jehovah"

 Samuel spoke. "I have grown old and gray" he told the crowd. His whitening hair added weight to his words. He then said: "I have walked before you from my youth until this day."  (1 Samuel 11:14, 15; 12:2) Though Samuel was old, he had not forgotten his youth. His memories of those early days were still vivid. The decisions he had made back then, as a growing boy, had led him to a life of faith and devotion to his God, Jehovah.

Samuel had to build and maintain faith, although again and again he was surrounded by people who were faithless and disloyal. Today, it is just as changeling to build faith, for we live in a faithless and corrupt world. (Read Luke 18:8.) Let us see what we can learn from Samuel's example, starting his early boyhood.

Next time: "Ministering Before Jehovah, as a Boy" 

From the jw.org publications

He "Continued Growing Up With Jehovah"

 Samuel looked into the faces of his people. The nation had gathered at the two of Gilgal, summoned by this faithful man who had served as a prophet and judge for decades. It was May or June by modern reckoning; the dry season was well along. The fields in the region were golden with wheat ready for harvest. Silence fell over the crowd. How could Samuel reach their hearts?

The people did not understand how serious the situation was. They had insisted on having a human king to rule over them. They did not grasp that they had shown gross disrespect to their God, Jehovah and to their prophet. They were, in effect, rejecting Jehovah as their King! How could Samuel move them to repentance? 

Next time: He "Continued Growing Up With Jehovah"

From the jw.org publications

"There Is No Rock Like Our God" -Conclusion

Hannah then uttered a prayer that God deemed worthy of inclusion of his inspired Word. As you read her words, recorded at 1 Samuel 2:1-10, you will find the depth of her faith conveyed in every lone. She praised Jehovah for his marvelous use of power-his unmatched ability to humble the haughty, to bless the oppressed, and to end life or even safe it from death. She praised her Father for his unique holiness, his justice, and his faithfulness.  With good reason, Hannah could say: "There is no rock like our God." Jehovah is completely reliable and unchanging a refuge for all he oppressed and downtrodden who turn to him for help.

Little Samuel was certainly privileged to have a mother who was so filled with faith in Jehovah. Though he surely missed her has, he grew up, he never felt forgotten. Year after year, Hannah would come back to Shiloh, bringing a sleeveless coat for his service at the tabernacle. Every stitch bore evidence of her love and her care for her son. (Read 1 Samuel 2:19.) We can just picture her putting the new coat on the boy, smoothing it out, and looking fondly at him while speaking kind, encouraging words. Samuel was blessed to have such a mother and he grew up to be a blessing to his parents and all of Israel. 

As for Hannah, she was not forgotten either. Jehovah blessed her with fertility, and she bore Elkanah five more children.  (1 Samuel 2:21) Perhaps Hannah's greatest blessing was the bond between her and her Father, Jehovah, which grew ever stronger through the years. May the same happen to you, as you imitate the faith of Hannah. 

Next time: He "Continued Growing Up With Jehovah"

From the jw.org publications

"There Is No Rock Like Our God" - Continue

 As the months passed, Hannah's peace of mind flowered into unbridled delight. She was pregnant! In her joy, Hannah never for a moment forgot where this blessing had come from. When the boy was born, she chose the name Samuel, which means "Name of God" and evidently refers to calling on the divine name, as Hannah had done. That year, she did not join Elkanah and the family for the trek to Shiloh. She stayed home with the for three years, until he was weaned. Then she gathered her strength the day on which she would have to part with her beloved son.

The parting could not have been easy. Of course, Hannah knew that Samuel would be cared for in Shiloh, perhaps by some of the women who served at the tabernacle. Still, he was so young, and what mother does not long to be with her child? Nonetheless, Hannah and Elkanah brought the boy, not begrudgingly, but gratefully.  They offered sacrifices at God's house, and they presented Samuel to Eli, reminding him of the vow Hannah had made there years earlier.

Next time: "There Is No Rock Like Our God" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

THe

"There Is No Rock Like Our God"

 The next morning Hanna returned to the tabernacle with Elkanah. She had likely told him of her request and her commitment, for the Mosaic Law said that a husband had the right to nullify a vow made by his wife without his consent. (Numbers 30:10-15) But that faithful man made no such move. Rather, he and Hannah worshipped Jehovah together at the tabernacle before heading homeward.

Just when did Peninnah realize that she lost her power to upset Hannah?  The account does not say, but the expression "self-concerned no more" suggests that Hannah's spirits rose  from that time forward. At any rate, Peninnah soon found that her spiteful conduct produced no effect. The Bible never mentions her name again.

Next time: "There Is No Rock Like Our God" - Continue

From the jw.org publications 

"Self-Concerned No More"

 What was the effect on Hannah of opening her heart to Jehovah and worshipping him that at this tabernacle? The account reads: "The woman proceeded to go on her way to eat, and her face became self-concerned no more." (1 Samuel 1:18) The Jerusalem Bible here reads: "Her countenance was no more sad." Hannah felt relieved. She had, in a sense, transferred the weight of her emotional burden to shoulders infinitely broader and stronger than her ow, those of her heavenly Father. (Read Psalm 55:22) Is any problem too heavy for him? No-not then, not now, not ever!

When we feel loaded down, overwhelmed, or overcome with sadness, we do well to follow Hannah's example and speak only to the One whom the Bible calls the "Hearer of prayer." (Psalm 65:2) If we do so in faith, we too may find our sadness is replaced by "the peace of God that excels all thought." - PHILIPPIANS 4:6, 7.

Next time: "There Is No Rock Like Our God"

From the jw.org publications

"Self-Concerned No More" - Continue

 Humans, however, are not as understanding and empathetic as Jehovah is. As Hannah wept and prayed, she was startled by a voice. It was Eli, the high priest, who had been observing her. He said: "How long will you behave drunk? Put away your wine from upon you." Eli had noticed Hannah's quivering lips, he sobs and her emotional demeanor. Instead of inquiring what was wrong, he jumped to the conclusion that she was drunk. -  1 SAMUEL 1:12-14. 

How hurtful for Hannah, in that moment of anguish, to have faced such a baseless accusation-and that from a man who held such an honored position! Nevertheless, she again set a praiseworthy example of faith. She did not let a man's imperfections get in the way of her worship of Jehovah. She answered Eli respectfully and explained her situation. He replied, perhaps in a chastened and softer tone: "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant your petition that you have asked of him." - 1 SAMUEL 1:15-17.

Next time: "Self-Concerned No More" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

"Self-Concerned No More" -Continue

 As the sobs racked her body, Hannah spoke within herself to Jehovah. Her lips quivered as she mentally formed the words to express her pain. And she prayed at length, pouring out her heart to her Father. She did more, though, than just ask God to fulfill her desperate urge to bear offspring. Hanah was keen not only to receive blessings from God but also to give him what she could. So she made a vow, saying that if she had a son, she would dedicate the child to a life of service to Jehovah. - 1 SAMUEL 1:9-11.

Hannah thus set an example for all of God's servants when it comes to prayer. Jehovah kindly invites is people to speak to him openly, without reservation, pouring out their concerns before him as a trusting child would to a loving parent. (Read Psalm 62:8; 1 Thessalonians5:17.)  The apostle Peter was inspired to write these comforting words about prayer to Jehovah: "Throw all your anxiety upon him because he cares for you." - 1 PETER5:7. 

Next time: "Self-Concerned No More" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"Self-Concerned No More"

 In the early hours, the household was bustling. Everyone was getting ready for the trip, even the children. The journey to Shiloh would take the large family across more than 20 miles of the hilly country of Ephraim.  The trek would last a day or two on foot. Hannah knew how her rival wife would act. However, Hannah did not stay at home. She thus set a worthy example for worshippers of God to this day.  It is never wise to let the misconduct of others interfere with our worship of God. Were we to do so, we would miss out on the very blessings that strengthen us to endure. 

After a long day of walking on winding mountain roads, the large family at last approached Shiloh. There it sat on a hill nearly ringed by higher hills. As they approached, Hannah likely thought a great deal about what she would say to Jehovah. Once they arrived, the family shared a meal. Hannah pulled away from the group as soon as she could and made her way to the tabernacle of Jehovah. High Priest Eli was there, sitting near the doorpost. But Hannah's focus was on her God. Here at the tabernacle, she felt confident that she would be heard. If no one else could fully understand her plight, her Father in heaven could. Her bitterness welled up within her, and she began to weep. 

Next time: "Self-Concerned No More" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"Why Does Your Heart Feel Bad?" -Conclusion

To his credit, Elkanah discerned that Hannah's distress had to do with her barrenness. And Hannah surely treasured his kind assurances of love. But Elkanah did not mention Peninnah's malice' nor does the Bible record suggest that Hannah told him of it. Perhaps she saw that exposing Peninnah would only make her own situations worse. Would Elkanah really change things? Might Peninnah's contempt for Hannah only deepen,  and would not the children and the servants of that spiteful woman follow suit.? Hannah would only feel more and more like an outcast in her own household.

Whether Elkanah knew the full scope of Peninnah's petty meanness or not, Jehovah God saw it all. His Word reveals the whole picture, and thus providing a solemn warning to any who indulge in seemingly minor jealous and hateful acts. On the other hand, the innocent and the peaceable, like Hannah, can find comfort in knowing that God of justice sets all matters right in his own way.  (Read Deuteronomy 32:4) Perhaps Hannah knew as much, for it was to Jehovah that she turned to for help.

Next time: "Self-Concerned No More"

From the jw.org publications

"Why Does Your Heart Feel Bad?" - Continue

 Elkana loved Hannah the most. Jewish tradition has it that he married Hannah first and the Peninnah came along some years later. At any rate, Peninnah, who was deeply jealous of Hannah, found many ways to make her rival suffer. Peninnah's great advantage over Hannah had to do with fertility. Peninnah produced one offspring after another, and her self-importance grew with each new child. Instead of feeling sorry for Hannah and comforting her in her disappointment, Peninnah played on that sensitive point. The Bible says that Peninnah vexed Hannah sorely "for the sake of making her feel disconcerted." (1 Samuel 1::6) Peninnah's actions were deliberate. She wanted to hurt Hannah, and she succeeded. 

Peninnah's favorite opportunity, it seems, came at the time of the annual pilgrimage to Shiloh. To each of Peninnah's many children-"all her sons and her daughters"-Elkanah gave portions of the sacrifices offered to Jehovah. Beloved Hannah, though, received a special portion. Jealous Peninnah so lorded it over Hannah and reminded her of her barrenness that the poor woman gave way to weeping and even lost her appetite.  Elkanah could not help but notice that his dear Hannah was distressed and was not eating, so he attempted to comfort her. "Hannah," he asked, "why do you weep, and why do you not eat, and why does your heart feel bad? Am I not better to you than ten sons?" -  1 SAMUEL 1:4-8.

Next time: "Why Does Your Heart Feel Bad?" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

"Why Does Her Heart Feel Bad?"

 The Bible reveals two big problems in Hannah's life. She had little control over the first and none at all over the second. In the first place, she was in a polygamous marriage, with a rival wife who hated her. In the second place, she was barren. That condition is difficult for any wife who longs to bear children; but in Hannah's time and culture, it was a source of intense grief. Each family counted on offspring to carry on the family name. Barrenness seemed a bitter reproach and shame.

Hannah might have borne her burden with fortitude had it not been for Peninnah. Polygamy was never an ideal situation. Rivalry, strife, and heartache were all too common. The practice was far from the standard of monogamy that God had set in the garden of Eden. (Genesis 2:24) The Bible thus points a grim paint grim portrait of polygamy, and the poignant depiction of within Elkanah's household is one of the telling brushstrokes in that picture. 

Next time: "Why Does Her Heart Feel Bad?" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

She Opened Her Heart to God in Prayer

 HANNAH busied herself with preparations for the trip, to keep her mind occupied. it should have been a happy time; Elkanah, her husband, customarily took the whole family on these annual journeys to worship at the tabernacle in Shiloh. Jehovah meant for such occasions to be joyful.  (Read Deuteronomy 16:15) And no doubt Hannah, from her childhood on, had delighted in those festivals. But things had changed her in recent years.

She was blessed to have a husband who loved her. However, Elkanah had another wife. Her name was Peninnah, she seemed intent on making Hannah's life miserable. Peninnah had figured out a way to make even these annual occasions a source of acute pain for Hannah. How? More to the point, how did Hannah's faith in Jehovah help her to cope with what often seemed like an impossible situation? If you face challenges that sap your joy in life, you may find Hannah's story particularly moving.

Next time: "Why Does Her Heart Feel Bad?" 

From the jw.org publications

"Very Tender In Affection"

 Jehovah was "very tender in affection and merciful" with Job. (James 5:11) How so? Jehovah restored Job to health. Imagine how Job felt when he realized that his flesh had, indeed, become "fresher than in youth" as Elihu had foretold!  His family and friends rallied around him at last, extending sympathy and gifts. Jehovah restored Job's wealth, giving him twice the possessions he had before. And what of the deepest wounds-the loss of his children? Job and his wife found a measure of comfort in becoming parents to ten more children! And Jehovah miraculously extended Job's life. Job lived for 140 more years, long enough to see four generations of his descendants thriving. "Finally, we read, Job died, after a long and satisfying life." (Job 42:10-17) And in Paradise, Job and his dear wife will be reunited with their family, including the ten children Satan took from them. - JOHN 5:28, 29.

Why did Jehovah reward Job so richly? The Bible answers: "You have heard of the endurance of Job." (James 5:11) Job endured more hardships than any of us could imagine. The word "endurance" tells us that Job did more than just survive those trials. He endured with his faith and his love for Jehovah intact. Rather than turning hard and bitter, he remained willing to forgive even those who deliberately hurt him. And he never let go of his precious hope or his own prized possession, his integrity. -JOB 27:5. 

Each of us need to endure. We can be sure hat Satan will try to discourage us as he did Job. But if we endure in faith, remaining humble, willing to forgive others, and determined to protect our integrity, we too may hold on to our precious hope. (Hebrews 10:36) Nothing would frustrate Satan more or delight the loving heart of Jehovah more than if we were to imitate the faith of Job. 

Next time: She Opened Her Heart to God in Prayer

From the jw.org publications

"You Have Not Spoken the Truth About Me"

 Jehovah now took action to comfort Job in his pain. Addressing Eliphaz, evidently the eldest of the three false comforters, Jehovah said: "My anger burns against you and your two companions, for you have spoken the truth about me as my servant Job has." (Job 42:7) Think about those words. Was Jehovah saying that everything those men had said was false or that every word that Job had uttered was correct? Of course not.  However, there was a vast difference between Job and his accusers, Job was brokenhearted, racked with grief, and stung with false accusations. Thus, it is easy understandable that he would speak rashly at times. However, Eliphaz, and his two friends did not bear such burdens. Weak in their own faith, they spoke deliberately and arrogantly. Not only did they attack an innocent man, but worse, they misrepresented Jehovah himself, in effective painting him as a harsh, even wicked God!

Little wonder, then, that Jehovah demanded a price from these men. They had to sacrifice seven bulls and seven rams-no small matter, for the bull was designated in the Mosaic Law as the sacrifice that the high priests have to offer if his sin had brought guilt on the whole nation.  (Leviticus 4:3) It was the costliest of the animals offered as a sacrifice under that Law. What is more, Jehovah said that he would accept the offering of Job's accusers only if Job first prayed in their behalf. (Job 42:8) How it must have soothed Job's heart to be vindicated by his God and see Jehovah's justice prevail!

Jehovah was confident that Job would do as he asked him to, forgiving those men who had hurt him so deeply. And Job did not disappoint his Father. (Job 42:9) His obedience was the greatest proof of his integrity, far more powerful than words. And it paved the way for the greatest blessings of Job's life.

Next time: "Very Tender in Affection"

From the jw.org publications

Teaching About Humility and Love

 What was the point of all this? Job urgently needed a dose of humility.  By complaining of what he thought was mistreatment at Jehovah's hand, Job was only increasing his own pain, distancing himself from his loving Fater. So Jehovah asked again and again where Job was when such marvels came into existence and whether Job could feed, control, or tame the creatures he had made. If Job could not master even the basic elements of Jehovah's creation, how could he presume to judge the Creator?  Were not Jehovah's ways and thoughts far beyond the scope of Job's limited view?

In all that Jehovah said, there was also a strong uncurrent of love. It is as though Jehovah were reasoning with Job: "My son, If I can create and care for all these things, do you really think that I would fail for you? Would I really abandon you, rob you of your children, your security, your health? Am I not the only One who restore your losses and heal your terrible pain?' 

Job spoke only twice in answer to Jehovah's probing questions. He did not argue, justify himself, or make excuses. He humbly acknowledged how little he really knew, and he repented of his rash words.  (Job 40:4, 5; 42:1-6) Here we see Job's faith in the finest light. After all that he endured, he remained a man of great faith. He accepted Jehovah's correction and took it to heart We must be moved to ask ourselves a probing question, 'Am I humble enough to accept correction and counsel?' We all need such help. When we accept it, we are imitating the faith of Job.

Next time: "You Have Not Spoken the Truth About Me"

From the jw.org publications

"Out of the Windstorm" - Conclusion

 Jehovah knew Job's pain. And he felt pity for the man, as he always does when his beloved children suffer.  (Isaiah 63:9; Zechariah 2:8) But he knew too, that Job had been "speaking without knowledge," making his own problems worse. So, Jehovah corrected Job by questioning him extensively. "Where were you. he began, "When I founded the earth? Tell me if you think you understand." At the dawn of creation, "the morning stars," God's family of angels, shouted an applause over the wonders of creation.  (Job 38:2, 4, 7) Job, of course knew nothing of this.

Jehovah went on to speak of his creative works. In a sense, he gave Job a brief tour of what humans today might call the natural sciences, touching on subjects as astronomy, biology, geology, and physics. In particular, Jehovah described a number of animals then found in Job's part of the world-the lion, the mountain goat, the wild donkey, the wild bull, the ostrich, the horse, the falcon, the eagle, Behemoth (obviously the hippopotamus) and finally, the Leviathan (likely the crocodile). Imagine the privilege of attending a lecture about the natural world delivered by the Creator of the universe!

Next time: Teaching About Humility and Love

From the jw.org publications

"Out of the Windstorm"

 As Elihu spoke, he often mentioned wind, clouds, thunder, and lightning.  He said of Jehovah: "Listen carefully to the rumbling of his voice." Moments later Elihu referred to a "storm wind." (Job 37:2, 9) 

When reading the book of Job, it is a wonderful relief    to come to these marvelous chapters containing Jehovah' speech to Job.  It is as if a windstorm of truth were blowing away all the empty speeches, all the false words of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Jehovah did not even address those men until later. His focus was on Job alone; he firmly addressed his beloved servant as a father would correct a son.

Next time: "Out of the Windstorm" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

Elihu Highlights Jehovah's Kindness

 Above all, Elihu spoke in defense of Jehovah God. Powerfully, he summarized a profound truth: "It is unthinkable for the true God to act wickedly, for the Almighty to do wrong! . . . The Almighty does not pervert justice." (Job 34:10, 12) As an example, of Jehovah's merciful justice, Elihu reminded Job that Jehovah had not stepped in to punish Job for uttering rash and disrespectful words. (Job 35:13-15) And rather than pretending to have all the answers, Elihu humbly acknowledge: "God is greater than we can know." - JOB 36:26.

Though his counsel was frank, Elihu remained kind. He spoke of a wonderful hope, that Jehovah would one day re(Jstore Job's health. God would say of his loyal servant: "Let his flesh become fresher than in youth; let him return to the days of his youthful vigor." Another instance of Elihu's kindness: Instead of simply lecturing Job, he kindly invited Job to speak, to answer him. "Speak he said, for I want to prove you right."  (Job 23:35, 32) But Job did not answer. Perhaps he felt no need to defend himself against such kind, encouraging counsel. Perhaps he wept in relief.

We can learn a great deal from both of these faithful men. From Elihu we learn how to counsel and comfort those in need. A true friend will not hold back from pointing out a serious fault or dangerous course of action. (Proverbs 27:6) We want to be a friend like that, remaining kind and encouraging to those in need, even when they speak rashly. And when ourselves are in need of such counsel, Job's example may remind us to listen humbly to counsel instead of dismissing it. All of us need counsel and correction. Accepting it can save our life. -PROVERBS 4:13.

Next time: "Out of the Windstorm" 

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A Wise and Kind Counselor - Conclusion

 "I am young," he said, "and you men are aged. So, I respectfully held back, and I dared not tell you what I know." But he could no longer keep silent. He went on: "Age alone does not make one wise or is it only old men who understand what is right." (Job 32:6, 9) Elihu then spoke at length, proving those words were true. He took a very different approach from that of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Elihu reassured Job that he would not talk down to him or add to his pressures. He also dignified Job, addressing him only by name and acknowledging that he had been treated with derision.  Respectfully, he said: "Now, Job please hear my words." - JOB 33:1, 7; 34:7.

Elihu offered Job some frank counsel: "You said in my hearing, . . . 'I am pure, without transgression; I am clean, without error. But God finds reasons to oppose me."' Elihu went right to the heart of the problem, asking: "Are you so convinced that you are right that you would say, 'I am more righteous than God?" He could not allow such reasoning to pass. "You are not right in saying this," the young man said. (Job 33:8-12; 35:2) Elihu knew that Job was filled with anger over his terrible losses and his mistreatment at the hands of his false friends. But Elihu cautioned Job: "Take care that rage does lead you into spitefulness." - JOB 36:18.

Next time: Elihu Highlights Jehovah's Kindness

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A Wise and Kind Counselor

 The account of Jo next reveals a surprise. There was another person nearby, a younger man named Elihu. He had been there all along, silently listening to the older mend debating, and he was not happy at all with what he had heard.

Elihu was upset with Job. It pained him to see righteous Job allow himself to be goaded into "trying to prove himself right rather than God." Yet, Elihu truly felt sympathy for Job-he could see the man's pain. his sincerity, and desperate need for kind counsel and comfort. No wonder Elihu ran out of patience with the three false comforters! He had heard them attacking Job, trying to undermine his faith, his dignity, and his integrity. Worse still, their twisted words declare God himself wicked. Elihu was fairly bursting with the urge to speak! - JOB 32:2-4, 18. 

Next time: A Wise and Kind Counselor - Conclusion

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iMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOB - Jehovah Healed His Pain

 At last, the all group of men fell silent. Perhaps the only sound left was the whisper of a warm wind from the Arabian desert. Job had run out of words, exhausted after a  long debate. Picture him glaring at his three acquaintances, Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar-almost daring  them to continue. But they could only they could only look down or away, frustrated that their clever arguments, their "blustery" words, and their hurtful insulations had failed. (Job 16:3, footnote) If anything,Job wasore determined than ever too defend his integrity.

Job may have felt that his integrity was all he had left. He had lost his wealth, all ten of his children, t. (Jobhe support and respect of his friends and neighbors, and finally his own health. His skin was blackened with disease, encrusted with scans, crawling with maggots. Even his breath was foul. (Job 7:5; 19:17; 30:30) Yet the attacks of those three men had stirred up in Job a fierce indignation. He was bent on proving that he was not the corrupt sinner they said he was. Job's final speech had just silenced them. Their torrent of cruel words had finally run dry. However, Job's pain remained. He still needed help desperately!

Job's thinking, understandably, was out of balance. He needed guidanc and correction. He also needed consolation and comfort. The very things that his three acquaintances should have provided but did not. Have you ever felt in dire need of guidance and comfort? Have you ever been let down by people you thought were your friends? Learning how Jehovah  God helped his servant Job and how Job responded may fill you with hope and give you practical help.

Next time: A Wise and Kind Counselor 

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IMITATE THE FAITH OF JOB

 Do you share Job's view of integrity l? It is an easy word to use, but saw that integrity is much more than a matter of word. We show our complete, wholehearted devotion toGod by obeying him and doing what is right in his eyes in our everyday life-even when facing hardship. If we live in that way, we will surely make Jehovah happy and frustrate his enemy, Satan, just as Job did so long ago. There is no better way to IMITATE the faith of Job!

Still, Job's story was far from over.  He was out of balance, so caught up defending his own righteousness that he forgot about standing up for God. He needed correction and spiritual help. And he was still suffering from profound pain and grief, in dire need of genuine comfort. What woul Jehovah do for this man of faith and integrity? Another article in this series will  answer those questions. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/JOB - Jehovah Healed His Pain 

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Job Stood Firm - Conclusion

 What, though, about the issue of integrity? ElipHaz and his two friends insisted that aan's integrity makes no difference to God. Did Job swallow that vile teaching? Far from it! Job asserted that integrity matters to God. He said confidently of Jehovah: "He will recognize my integrity." (Job31:6) Further, Job saw clearly that the false reasoning of his would-be comforters amounted to an attack on his integrity. It stirred Job to make his longest speech, one that finally closed the mouths of those three men. - JOB 27:5; 31:1, 2, 9-11, 16-18,26-28. 

Job saw that his integrity involved his everyday life  So he defended the way he lived and acted. For example, he avoided all forms of idolatry; he treated others with kindness and dignity; he morally clean, cherishing his marriage; and above all, he remained loyalty devoted to the only true God, Jehovah. This, Job was able to say with his whole heart: "Until I die, I will not renounce my integrity! -  

Next time - IMITATE THE FAITH OF JOB

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Job Stood Form

 Poor Job was already in a state of despair when this long debate began. From the outset, he admitted that his words sometimes amounted to "wild talk" and  "a desperate man's sayings." (Job 6:3, 26) We can understand why. His words reflected the agony of his heart. They also reflected his limited perspective because the tragedies that befell him and his family came so suddenly and even appeared to be supernatural, Job assumed that Jehovah was the cause. There were important events of which Job knew nothing, so he rested some of his reasoning on faulty assumptions.

However, Job was a man of deep strong faith. His faith came through in much of what he said in that long debate-words that are true, beautiful and encouraging to us today. When he spoke of the marvels of creation, he glorified God in ways that no human could without God's help. For instance, he said that Jehovah is "suspending the earth upon nothing"a statement many centuries in advance of scientic knowledge." (Job26:7) And when Job spoke of his own hope of the future, he expressed a confidence and  that other men of great faith have held as well. Job believed that if death should take him, God would remember him, would miss him l, and would eventually restore him to life. -JOB14:23-15; Hebrews11:17-19:35.

Next time: Job Stood Firm - Conclusion

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Integrity Under Attack!

 Those misguided men did something even worse. They actually cast doubt on not only Job's integrity but the very idea of integrity! In his opening speech, Eliphaz describes an eerie encounter with an an unseen spirit. The conclusion that Eliphaz drew from that demonic  experience was poisonous: God "has no faith in his servants, and he finds fault with his angels." With that reasoning, mere humans can never please God! Later, Bildad claimed that Job's integrity would not matter to God-amy more than that of a maggot!ob 4:1--18; 15:15; 22:2, 3; 25:4-6. 

Have you ever tried to comfort someone in the thros of great pain? It is not easy. But we can learn a great deal from from Job's misguided acquaintances-mostly what not to say. In their endless flow of high-soundiñg words and faulty logic, those three men never even addressed Jobby name! They gave no thought to Job's wounded heart and saw no need to treat him gently. So if someone you care about is feeling low, try to remain warm, personal, and kind. Seek to build up the person's faith and courage, helping that one to trust in God and to believe his great kindness, mercy, and justice. That is what Job would have done for his companions had he been in their place. (Job 16:4,5. How though, did he react to their persistent on his integrity? 

Next time: Job Stood Firm 

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The Comforters Who Failed Conclusion

Eliphaz, possibly the eldest and much older than Job, begin. In time, the other two followed suit. In general, we might say that they sheepishly followed the lead of Eliphaz. Some of what those men said might have seemed harmless, as they sprouted spiritual-sounding platitudes about God being lofty, punishing bad people, and rewarding the good. From the first,though, there was an undercurrent of unkindness. Eliphaz used simplistic logic to suggest that if God is good and he punishes the bad, and Job was clearly being punished, then what what must be true? Must not Job be bad in some way? -JOB 4:1, 7, 8; 5:3-6.

Not surprisingly, Job did not take well to that line off reasoning. He rejected it forcefully. (Job6:25) But the three counselors became ever more convinced that Job was guilty of hidden wrongdoing; he must somehow deserve all the bad things happening to him. Eliphaz accused Job of being presumptuous, wicked and devoid of godly fear. (Job 15:4, 7-9, 20-24: 22:6-11) Zophar tod Job to put away his evil and his enjoyment of sin. (Job 11:2, 3, 14; 290:5,12, 13)  An Bildad struck a particularly cruel blow. He suggested thaJob's sons must have skinned in one way, so they deserved to die as they did! - Job8,4, 13.

Next time: Integrity Under Attack! 

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The Comforters Who Failed

 Three men who knew Job-the record describes them as companions or acquaintances -hesrd of his troubles and traveled to visit him and offer comfort. When they saw him from a distance, he was unrecognizable. Racked with pain, his skin blackened with disease, he was barely a shadow of his former self. The three men-Eliphaz, Bildad, and zophar-put ona great show of grief, wailing loudly and throwing dust on their heads. Then they say on the ground near Job and said nothing. For a full week they say there day and night, uttering not a word. We should mistake their silence for comfort, for they ask the man no questions and learned only what was obvious-Job was in gret pain. - JOB 2:11-13: 30:30.

Finally,  Job had to begin the conversation himself. In words drenched with pain, he cursed the day he was born. And he revealed a deep cause of his agony. He thought that God was the source of his troubles. (Job 3:1, 2, 23) Though still a man of faith, Job desperately needed comfort. But when those acquaintances begin to speak, Job soon realized that their silence was better. JOB 1:3-5.

Next time: The Comforters Who Failed - Conclusion

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"He Will Surely Curse You"

 Infuriated, Satan refused to quit. He again came before Jehovah during a gathering of the angels. Again, Jehovah praised Job's integrity, which was holding up under all of Satan's attacks. Satan retorted: "Skin for skin. A man will give everything that he has for his life. But, for a change, strike his bone and flesh, and he will surely curse you to your very face."  Satan was certain that if Job got sick enough, he would curse God. Fully trusting Job, Jehovah allowed Satan to take away his health-as long as Satan did not kill Job. - JOB 2:1-6.

Soon, Job was stricken as described at the onset. Imagine his poor wife. Already shattered with grief over the loss of her ten children, she now had watch, helpless, as her husband suffered horribly! Agonized, she cried out: "Are you still holding firmly to your integrity? Curse God and die!"  She did sound like the wife Job knew and loved. He could only say that she was talking like one who lost her senses. Still, he refused to curse his God. He uttered no sinful speech. - JOB 2:7-10. 

Did you know that this sad, true story affects you personally? Notice that Satan aimed his venomous charge not only against Job but against mankind in general.  He said: "A man will give everything that he has for his life." In other words, Satan believes that integrity is beyond each of us! He insists that you have no real love for God, that you would quickly abandon God to save your own skin. In effect, Satan says that you are as selfish as he is! Would you like to prove him wrong? Each of us has that privilege. (Proverbs 27:11) Let us now see what challenge Job face next.

Next time: The Comforters Who Failed

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What Job Did Not Know - Conclusion

 Suddenly, though, the scene shifts in Job's story. We get a glimpse into heaven, and we learn things that Job could have known. Jehovah's faithful angels were gathered before God, and rebel angel Satan entered. Jehovah knew that Satan despised the righteous man Job, so God addressed Satan, pointing out Job's outstanding integrity. Satan boldly replied: "Is it for nothing that Job has feared God? Have you not put a protective hedge around him and his house and everything he has?"  Satan hates people of integrity. When they such wholehearted devotion to Jehovah God, they expose Satan for the loveless traitor that he is. So Satan insisted that Job served God only for selfish reasons. If job were to lose everything, Satan asserted, the man would curse Jehovah to his face! - JOB 1:6-11. 

Job could not know it, but Jehovah had entrusted him with a great privilege: Prove Satan wrong. Satan was allowed to rob Job of all that he had. Only the man himself he was not to touch. So Satan eagerly set about his sadistic work. In a single day a series of terrible blows rained down on Job. He learned his livestock-first his cattle and donkeys, then his sheep, and then his camels were suddenly wiped out. Worse the servants who tended them were killed. In the first case of one group, the cause was reported to Job as "fire from God"-possibly lightning. Before Job could even contemplate the loss of human lives or the poverty he now faced, the heaviest blow landed. His ten children were gathered together in the home of he oldest when a sudden windstorm struck the house, destroying it and killing them all! - JOB 1:12-19. 

It is hard perhaps impossible, to imagine how Job felt. He ripped apart his clothes, cut off his hair, and collapsed to the ground. Job concluded that God had given to him and God had taken away from him. Indeed, Satan had cleverly made it look as if God had sent those disasters.  Nonetheless, Job did not curse his God had Satan had predicted. Rather, Job said: "Let the name of Jehovah continue to be praised." - JOB 1:20-22. 

Next time: "He Will Surely Curse You"

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What Job Did Not Know

There is reason to believe that sometime after Job died, the faithful man Moses wrote down the story of Job's life.  Under divine inspiration, Moses was able to reveal not only the events on earth that affected Job but also some events that unfolded in heaven. 

At the beginning of the account, we find Job leading a full and happy life. He was prosperous, a man well-known and respected in the land of Uz-possibly in northern Arabia. He shared freely with those in need and championed the cause of the helpless. Job and his wife were blessed with ten children. Above all, Job was a spiritual man. He eagerly sought to please Jehovah, much as his distant relatives Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph had done. Like such patriarchs, Job acted as a priest for his family, regularly offering up sacrifices in behalf of his children. - JOB 1:1-5; 31:16-22.

Next time: What Job Did Not Know - Continue

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IMITATE THEIR FAITH/Job - "I Will Not Renounce My Integrity!"

 He sat on the ground, his body covered from head to foot with painful boils, or ulcers. Picture him, his head bowed, shoulders slumped, alone, barely able to summon the energy to shoo away the flies that buzzed around him. Sitting amid ashes to signify his mourning, he could only scrape his diseased skin with a shard of pottery. He had lost so much, had fallen so far! His friends, neighbors, and relatives had abandoned him. People, even children, mocked him. He thought that his God, Jehovah, had turned against him as well, but he was wrong about that. - JOB 2:8; 19:18, 22. 

This was Job. God said of him: "There is no one like him on the earth." (Job 1:8) Centuries later, Jehovah still thought of Job as outstanding among men of righteousness. - EZEKIEL 14:14, 20. 

 Do you face hardship and misfortune? Job's story can bring you great comfort. It can also give you insight into a quality that ever faithful servant of God needs-integrity. Humans show integrity when they are so completely devoted to God that they continue to do his will even in the face of hardship. Let Job teach us more. 

Next time: What Job Did Not Know

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