AVOID BEING OVERCONFIDENT

We must exert ourselves not only to reach maturity but also to maintain it. This requires that we avoid overconfidence. (1 Corinthians 10:12) We should "keep testing" ourselves to make sure that we are continuing to make progress. - 2 CORINTHIANS 13:5.

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul again highlights the need to remain mature. Even though they had become full-grown Christians. Paul warned them against being ensnared by worldly thinking. (2 Corinthians 2:6-10) And Epaphras, who evidently knew those in the congregation well, prayed constantly that they might "finally stand complete," or mature. (Colossians 4:12) The point? Both Paul and Epaphras understood that maintaining maturity requires personal effort and God's support. They wanted the Colossians to remain mature, or full-grown, Christians despite any challenges they were facing. 

Next time: AVOID BEING OVERCONFIDENT - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

THE ROLE OF SPIRITUAL FOOD - Conclusion

 Immature Christians often struggle when faced with situations that call for reasoning on Bible principles and applying them. If no Bibler law exists, some might feel that they can do whatever they want. Others might ask for a rule when there is no rule required. For instance, Christians in Corinth apparently asked Paul for a rule about whether they could eat food that had been offered to and idol. Rather than tell them what to do, Paul acknowledged the role of the conscience and the fact that each person has a "right to choose." He reasoned on principles that allow each individual to be a peace with his conscience while not stumbling others. (1 Corinthians 8:4, 7-9) Paul was thus helping the Corinthians to grow up spiritually so they could use their own powers of discernment instead of depending on someone else or simply looking for rules. 

We learn a valuable lesson from Paul wrote to the Christians. Some had not continued to grow spiritually; they had actually "gone back" to needing milk, not solid [spiritual]food." (Hebrews 5:12) They had failed to keep up with the truth, which was being progressively revealed through the congregation. (Proverbs 4:18) For example, many Jewish believers were still promoting the Mosaic Law even though some 30 years earlier the Law had been done away with on the basis of Christ's sacrifice. (Romans 10:4; Titus 1:10) Surely it was not too much to ask Jewish Christians to adjust their thinking over a period of 30 years! Anyone who has read Paul's inspired letter to the Hebrews can confirm that this book contains solid spiritual food.  It was just what those Christians needed to strengthen their faith in the superiority of the Christian arrangement for worship and to give them the courage to keep preaching in spite of opposition from the Jews. - HEBREWS 10:19-23. 

Next time: AVOID BEING OVERCONFIDENT

From the jw.org publications

THE ROLE OF SOLID SPIRITUAL FOOD

 In order to advance to maturity, we also move "beyond the primary doctrine about the Christ," that is basic Christian teachings. Example of such basic teachings include repentance, faith, baptism, and the resurrection. (Hebrews 6:1, 2) Such teachings form the foundation of Christianity. For this reason, the apostle Peter spoke of them when preaching to the crowd at Pentecost. (Acts 2:32-35,38) We must accept these primary teachings to become disciples of Christ. For example, Paul warned that any who deny the teaching of the resurrection reject the entire Christian faith. (1 Corinthians 15:12-14) However. we must not be satisfied with just basic knowledge of the truth.

In contrast to the primary doctrine, spiritual food includes not only Jehovah's Laws but also his principles, which help us to understand his thinking. To benefit from such food, we must study, meditate on, and carefully apply God's Word. As we do so, we train ourselves to make decisions that please Jehovah. - Read HEBREWS 5:14. 

Next time: THE ROLE OF SPIRITUAL FOOD - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

HOW DO WE GROW TO CHRISTIAN MATURITY?

 We may grow to physical adulthood naturally over time, but no one grows up to spiritual maturity automatically.  For instance, the brothers and sisters in Corinth accepted the good news, got baptized, received holy spirit, and benefited from the personal instruction of the apostle Paul. (Acts 18:8-11) Yet, some years  after their baptism, many were immature. (1 Corinthians 3:2) How can we avoid slowing down in our spiritual growth?

To reach maturity, we must first cultivate the desire to become mature. Those who "love inexperience," preferring to remain as spiritual infants, will fail to make progress. (Proverbs 1:22) We do not want to be like those who are fully grow physically but continue depending on our own their parents to make decision for them.  Instead, we want to take responsibility for our own spiritual growth. (Read Jude 20.) If you are still working to reach maturity, pray that Jehovah will give you "both the desire and power to act." - PHILIPPIANS 2:13. 

Jehovah does not expect us to grow to maturity on our own. Those who serve as shepherds and teachers in the Christian congregation are prepared to help us in becoming full-grow" in a spirituals sense, "attaining the measure of stature that belongs to the fullness of the Christ. (Read Ephesians 4:11-13.) Jehovah also provides his holy spirit to help us have "the mind of Christ." (1 Corinthians 2:14-16) Further, God inspired the writing of the four Gospels to show us how Jesus' thought, spoke, and acted during his earthly ministry. By imitating Jesus' way of thinking and acting, you can reach your goal of Christian maturity.

Next time: THE ROLE OF SOLID SPIRITUAL FOOD

From the jw.org publications

 

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BECOME A MATURE CHRISTIAN? - Conclusion

 Does this mean that a mature Christian never needs help from anyone? No. Mature ones also need to ask for help at times. But someone who is immature may expect others to tell him what to do or to make a decision that he himself should make. A mature Christian, on the other hand, will draw on the wisdom and the experience of others while recognizing that Jehovah expects him to "carry out his own load." - GALATIANS 6:5.

Just as adults differ in appearance, mature Christians differ in spiritual qualities, such as wisdom, courage, generosity, and empathy. Further, when to mature Christians face a similar situation, they might come to different conclusions that are both Scripturally acceptable. That is especially true in matters of conscience. Recognizing this, they avoid judging each other over such differences. Instead, they focus on remaining united. - ROMANS 14:10; 1 CORINTHIANS 1:10.

Next time: HOW TO WE GROW TO CHRISTIAN MATURITY?

From the jw.org publications

  

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BECOME A MATURE CHRISTIAN? - Continue

 On the other hand, a Christian who remains immature can easily be misled by "trickery" and "deceptive schemes" and be taken by conspiracy theorists and apostates. (Read Ephesians 4:14, 15) He may be prone to being jealous, creating strife, taking offense, or yielding to temptation.  - 1 CORINTHIANS 3:3.  

As mentioned earlier, the Scriptures compare the process of growing to spiritual maturity to the process of growing to adulthood. A child lacks insight, so he needs the protection and supervision of an adult. To illustrate, a mother might ask her young daughter to hold her hand while crossing the street. As the girl grows older, the mother might allow her to cross the street on her own but will still remind her to look both ways for traffic.  When the child becomes an adult, she avoids hazards on her own. Just as young children need help from adult to avoid danger, immature Christians often need help from mature Christians to avoid spiritual dangers and to make wise decisions. By contrast, when mature Christians have to make a decision, they reason on Bible principles to get Jehovah's thinking on the matter and then follow through accordingly. 

Next time: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BECOME A MATURE CHRISTIAN?  - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BECOME A MATURE CHRISTIAN?

 In the Bible the Greek word translated "full-grown" can also mean "mature," "perfect," and "complete." (1 Corinthians 2:6) We become full-grown, or mature, as Christians when we grow out of spiritual infancy and become mature men or women. Of course, even when we have reached that goal, we should never stop advancing spiritually. (1 Timothy 4:15) All of us, including those who are physically young can be spiritually mature. But what indicates that a Christian has grown to maturity?

A mature Christian is someone who lives by all of God's requirements, not picking and choosing the ones he wants to follow. Of course, being imperfect, he will make mistakes. Still, he shows by his daily life that he thinks and acts in harmony with God's will. He has put on the new personality and constantly striving to bring his thinking closer to God's thinking. (Ephesians 4:22-24) He has trained himself to make wise decisions based on Jehovah's laws and principles, so he does not need a lengthy rules to govern his behavior. When he makes a decision, he has the self-disciple to follow through. - 1 CORINTHIANS 9:26, 27. 

Next time: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BECOME A MATURE CHRISTIAN? - Continue

From the jw.org publications

"Press On to Maturity"

 "Let us press on to Maturity." - HEBREWS 6:1.

FOCUS

Learn how a mature Christian thinks and acts in harmony with God's will and makes wise decisions.

FEW events bring more joy to a married couple than the birth of a healthy baby. Yet, even though parents love their precious newborn, they do not want him to remain an infant permanently. In fact, they would be seriously concerned if he did not grow. Similarly, Jehovah is happy when we take our first steps as followers of Jesus, but he does not want us to remain spiritual toddlers.  (1 Corinthians 3:1) Instead, he asks us to "become full-grown" Christians. - 1 CORINTHIANS 1:20.

What does it mean to become a full-grown Christian? How do we grow to Christian maturity? What role does solid spiritual food play in our growth? And why should we avoid overconfidence? In this article, we will consider the answers to these questions. 

Next time: WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BECOME A MATURE CHRISTIAN?

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "MOST BLESSED OF WOMEN" -Conclusion

 Jael had to think fast. She offered Sisera a place to rest. He ordered her to conceal his presence from any man who might come looking for him. She covered him when he lay down and when he asked her for water, she gave him creamy milk. Soon Sisera fell into a deep sleep. Jael then took a pair of household implements that tent-dwelling women used often and skillfully-a tent pin and mallet. Crouch near Sisera's head, she now faced the terrifying task of acting as executioner for Jehovah. Even an instant of hesitation could have meant disaster. Did she think of God's people and of how this man had brutalized them for decades? Or did she think of the privilege of taking her stand for Jehovah? The record does not say. We know only that the deed was soon done. Sisera was dead! - JUDGES 4:18-21; 5:24-27.

Later, Barak came in search of his quarry. When Jael showed him the corpse with the tent pin through the temples, he knew that Deborah's prophecy had come true. A woman had killed the mighty warrior Sisera! Modern-day critics and skeptics have called Jael all of manner of vile names, but Barak and Deborah knew better. In their song, they were inspired to praise Jael as "most blessed of women" for her courageous deed. (Judges 4:22; 5:24) Note the generosity of Deborah's spirit. She did not begrudge Jael such praise; rather, she cared only that Jehovah's word had come true.

With Sisera gone, King Jabin's power was broken. The Canaanite oppression was over at last. Peace prevailed for 40 years. (Judges 4:24; 5:31) How blessed were Deborah, Barak, and Jael for putting faith in Jehovah God! If we imitate the faith of Deborah, boldly taking our stand for Jehovah and encouraging others to do the same, Jehovah will bless us with victories -and lasting peace.

Next time: "Press On to Maturity" 

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH -"MOST BLESSED OF WOMEN"

One of the Canaanite enemies escaped-the worse of them all! Sisera, the great oppressor of God's people, fled the battlefield on foot. Leaving his men to die in the mire, he slipped past the Israelite soldiers and made his way to firmer ground, heading toward the nearest allies he could think of. Scurrying across miles of open terrain ever terrified that Israelite soldiers might find him, he headed to the tents of Heber, a Kenite who had broken away from the rest of his nomadic people to the south and established some kind of accord with King Jabin. -JUDGES 4:11, 17.

Exhausted, Sisera arrived at Heber's encampment. He found that Heber was not at home. But the man's wife Jael, was there. Sisera evidently assumed that Jael would honor her husband's accord with King Jabin. Perhaps it was inconceivable to him that a woman could act or even think differently from her husband. Sisera obviously did not know  how Jael!  Clearly, she had a choice before her. Either she cold aid this man or she could throw in her lot with Jehovah and strike a blow against this enemy of his people. But what could she do? How could a woman vanquish such a powerful, battle-hardened warrior? 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "MOST BLESSED OF WOMEN"

From the jw.org publications 

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "THE EARTH SHOOK, AND THE HEAVENS POURED" -Conclusion

 Barak and his men were not troubled by the storm. They knew where it was coming from. They ran right at the Canaanite forces. Acting as God's executioners, the Israelites left none of Sisera's army alive. The Kishon River surged and flooded, washing the corpses downstream toward the Great Sea. -JUDGES 4:16; 5:21. 

Today, Jehovah no longer sends his servants into physical battles. Yet, he does ask his people to engage in spiritual warfare. (Matthew 26:52; 2 Corinthians 10:4) If we try to obey God in today's world, we are taking our stand in that war. We need courage, for those who side with God today may face fierce opposition. But Jehovah has not changed. He still comes to the defense of those who, like Deborah and Barak, and the brave soldiers of ancient Israel, put their faith and trust in Him. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "MOST BLESSED OF WOMEN"

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "THE EARTH SHOOK, AND THE HEAVENS POURED" - Continue

 What would Barak and Deborah do as the enemy approached? If they remained on the slopes of Mount Tabor, they might have an advantage over the advancing Canaanites forces, for those chariots needed flat open country to fight effectively. But Baraj was going to fight as Jehovah directed, so he waited for word from Deborah. At last, the moment came. She said "Rise up, for this is the day that Jehovah will give Sisera into your hand. Is Jehovah not going out before you?" Next, we read: "Barak descended from Mount Tabor with 10,000 men following him." - JUDGES 4:14.

The forces of Israel charged down the mountain and out into the open, flat ground, heading right toward those fearsome machines of war. Did Jehovah go out before them, as Deborah had promised? The answer came very soon. "The earth shook, and the heavens poured," we read. Sisera's proud forces were thrown into confusion. And down came the rain! It came in such torrents, it seems that the ground was quickly swamped, Soon the heavy iron-bearing chariots were more of a liability than and asset. They sank into the mud and became hopelessly bogged down. -JUDGES 4:14, 15; 5:4. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "THE EARTH SHOOK, AND THE HEAVENS POURED" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH -'THE EARTH SHOOK, AND THE HEAVENS POURED"

  Barak went to muster his army. He gathered 10,000 men who were brave enough to go up against Sisera's daunting forces. As Barak led his men up o Mount Tabor, he was glad to have a way to boost their courage. We read: "Deborah also went up with him." (Judges 4:10) Imagine how it lifted the spirits of those soldiers to see tha brave woman join them in their march toward Mount Tabor, willing to risk her life at their side because of her faith in Jehovah God!

When Sisera learned that Israel dared to muster and army against him, he acted quickly. A number of Canaanite kings joined with King Jabin, who may have been the most powerful among them. Then Sisera's great squadrons of chariots made the earth shake as they rumbled in formation across the plain. The Canaanites were sure that they would make quick work of the pathetic army of Israel. -JUDGES4:12, 13; 5:19.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "THE EARTH SHOOK, AND THE HEAVENS POURED" - Continue

From the jw,org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - 'GO AND MARCH TO MOUNT TABOR - Conclusion

 Barak has been called faithless because of this request, but unfairly so. After all, he did not ask God for more weapons. Rather, as a man of faith, Barak saw the value in having Jehovah's representative there to strengthen him and his men. (Hebrews 11:32, 33) Jehovah responded favorably.  He allowed Deborah to go, as Barak requested. However, Jehovah also inspired her to prophesy that the battle's final glory would not go to a man. (Judges 4:9) God had decided that a woman would execute wicked Sisera!

In today's world, a great deal of injustice, violence, and abuse is heaped upon women. Rarely are they accorded the dignity that God wants them to receive. However, God grants women and men equal value and standing before him. (Romans 2:11; Galatians 3:28) Deborah's example reminds us that he also blesses women with privileges and signs of his particular trust and favor. It is vital that we never adopt the bigotry so common in this world.

Next time: IMITAT THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "THE EARTH SHOOK, AND THE HEAVENS POURED"

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "GO AND MARCH TO MOUNT TABOR" -Continue

 Terror reigned for 20 years, until Jehovah saw evidence that his stubborn people were ready to change, or as the inspired record of the song of Deborah and Barak says, "Until I, Deborah, rose up, I arose as a mother in Israel." We do not know if Deborah, the wife of a man named Lappidoth, was a mother in a literal sense, but this expression was intended figuratively. In effect, Jehovah assigned Deborah to provide the nation with motherly protection. He commissioned her to summon a strong man of faith, Judge Barak, and direct him to rise up against Sisera.  - JUDGES 4:3, 6, 7; 5z;7.

"Go and march to Mount Tabor," Jehovah ordered through Deborah. Barak was to muster 10,000 men from two of Israel's tribes. Deborah conveyed God's promise that they would defeat the mighty Sisera and his 900 chariots! The promise surely astounded Barak. Israel had no army and virtually no weaponry. Still, Barak agreed to go into battle-but only if Deborah came to Mount Tabor too. - JUDGES 4:6-8; 5:6-8.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH- "GO AND MARCH TO MOUNT TABOR " - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH -"GO AND MARCH AT MOUNT TABOR

 When the Bible first introduces Deborah, it refers to her as "a prophetess." That designation makes Deborah unusual in the Bible record but hardly unique.  Deborah had another responsibility. She was also evidently settling disputes by giving Jehovah's answers to problems that came up. - JUDGES 4:4, 5.

Deborah lived in the mountainous region of Ephraim, between the two towns of Bethel and Ramah. There she would sit beneath a palm tree and serve the people as Jehovah directed. Her assignment was surely challenging, but Deborah did not allow it to daunt her. There was dire need for her services. In fact, she later too part in composing an inspired song, and it included this comment about her unfaithful people: "They choose new gods; then there was war in the gates." (Judges 5:8) Because the Israelites left Jehovah to serve other gods, Jehovah abandoned them to their enemies. Canaanite King Jabin dominated them, using a mighty general named Sisera.

Sisera! The very name caused terror and panic in Israel. The Canaanite religion and culture were brutal, featuring child sacrifice and temple prostitution. What was it like to have a Canaanite general and his army dominating the land? Deborah's song reveals that travel was nearly impossible in the land and the village life was all but ended.  (Judges 5:6, 7) We may imagine people cowering in the woods and hills, afraid to farm or to live in unwalled villages and terrified to travel on the open roads lest they be attacked, their children taken, and their women raped.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH -"GO AND MARCH AT MOUNT TABOR" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "I Arose as a Mother in Israel"

 DEBORAH looked around at the soldiers who were gathered atop Mount Tabor. It was touching to see them there. In the morning light, she contemplated their bravery and the faith of their leader, Barak. Though there were 10,000 strong, their faith and courage would face a great test this day. They were going against a vicious foe, and they were outnumbered and poor armed. But they had come there anyway-largely because of the encouragement of this one woman.

Picture Deborah, her garments rustling in the breeze as she and Barak looked out over sweeping vista. Mount Tabor resembled a great cone with its top blunted. Its flat summit commanded a view of the Plain of Esdraelon, some 1,300 feet (400 m) below, which fanned out to the southwest. The Kishon River would through the grassland, leading out to the Great Sea by Mount Carmel. The riverbed may have been dry that morning, but something else glistened on the broad plain.  Sisera's army was drawing nearer, flashing ominously with the glint of iron scythes protruding from the axles. Sisera intended to cut down the ill-equipped Israelites as if he were harvesting barley!

Deborah knew that Barak and his men were waiting for some word, some signal from her. Was she the only woman there?  Was it like for her to bear so much responsibility in such a setting? Did she wonder what she was doing there? Evidently not! Jehovah, her God had told her to start this war; he had also revealed he would use a woman to bring it to an end. (Judges 4:9) What can Deborah and these courageous fighters teach us about faith? 

Next time: IMTATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "I Arose as a Mother in Israel" - Continue

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "TRANSFERRED SO AS NOT TO SEE DEATH" - Conclusion

With that Scriptural reasoning in mind, then, let us try to imagine how Enoch's life might have ended. Picture this scenario, remembering that it is only one possibility. Enoch   was on the run, nearing exhaustion. His persecutors were after him seething with rage over his judgment message. Enoch found a place to hide and rest for a while, but he knew that he could not escape for long. A violent death loomed very near now. As he rested, he prayed to his God.  Then a profound sense of peace came upon him. A vision as vivid as if Enoch were really there, too him far away. 

Note: I am not as dramatic as some explaining things. Someone told me once, to summarize my words because my explanation was too long. :>( 

Imagine that a view opened up before him, showing a world wholly different than from the one he knew. It seemed to him that it was as beautiful as the garden of Eden, but there were no cherubs guarding it to keep humans out. Men and women-all full of health and youthful vigor-were numerous. Peace reigned among them. There was no tract of hatred and religious persecution that Enoch knew only too well. As for himself, Enoch sensed Jehovah's assurance, love, and approval. He felt sure that this place was here he belonged; it would be his own home. As peace stole over him, Enoch closed his eyes and drifted into a deep, dreamless sleep. And there he remains to this day-asleep in death, carefully preserved in the limitless memory of Jehovah God!  As Jesus later promised, the day will come when all those who are in God's memory will hear Christ's voice and come out of the grave, opening their eyes to a beautiful and peaceful new world. - JOHN 5:28, 29. 

Would you like to be there? Imagine the thrill of meeting Enoch. Think of the fascinating things we could learn from him!  He could tell if our imaginary scenario about his final moments were close to the truth. But there is something we urgently need to learn from him right now. After discussing Enoch, Paul went to say: "Without faith it is impossible to please God well." (Hebrews 11:6) What a powerful lesson for us to imitate the courageous faith of Enoch!

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/DEBORAH - "I Arose as a Mother in Israel"

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "TRANSFERRED SO AS NOT TO SEE DEATH"

 How did the end come for Enoch? In a way, his death is even more mysterious and intriguing than his life. The Genesis account simply says: "Enoch kept walking with the true God. Then he was no more, for God took him." (Genesis 5:24) In what way did God take Enoch? The apostle Paul later explained: "By faith Enoch was transferred so as not to see death, and was nowhere to be found because God had transferred him, for before he was transferred, he received the witnesses that he had pleased God well." (Hebrews 11:5) What did Paul mean by that phrase "transferred so as not to see death"? Some Bible translations say that God took Enoch to heaven. But that cannot be. The Bible shows that Jesus Christ was the first one ever resurrected to heaven. -JOHN 3:13. 

In what sense, then, was Enoch "transferred" so that he did not see death"? Jehovah likely transferred Enoch gently from life to death, sparing any pains of death. But first, Enoch received "the witness that he had pleased God well." How? Just before his death, Enoch may have received a vision from God, perhaps one showing him ethe earth as a paradise. With that vivid sign of Jehovah's approval, Enoch fell asleep in death. Writing about Enoch and other faithful men and women, the apostle Paul stated: "In faith all of these died." (Hebrews 11:13) Thereafter, his enemies may have searched for his body, but it was nowhere to be found," perhaps because disposed of it, preventing them from desecrating it or using it to promote false religion.

Note: I remember reading that the hostile people he proclaimed a warning to, was after him to kill him. He went to hide in a cave, and they were outside it ready to come in to get him, but Jehovah transferred him so as not to see death, because of his deep faith in Jehovah God.  Someone needs to read their Bible another time or two. I have read mine so many times from front to back, word for word, that I lost count and I keep on reading it and learning more. The more I learn and understand it more, I feel even closer to God each time.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "TRANSFERRED SO AS NOT TO SEE DEATH"- Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - ENOCH "PROPHESIED ABOUT THEM"

 What was it like for Enoch to deliver that pronouncement, perhaps by preaching it to all who would hear? Notice how forceful the warning was-four times it used the word "ungodly" to denounce the people, their deeds. and the way they carried out those deeds. The prophecy thus warned all humas that the world they built  up since the expulsion from Eden was corrupt through and through. That world would face a cataclysmic end when Jehovah would come with his "holy myriads"-legions of mighty angels in battle array-to bring destruction. Enoch fearlessly shared that divine warning, and he did it alone! Perhaps young Lamech watched, in awe of his grandfather's courage. If so we can understand why.

Enoch's faith may move us to ask ourselves whether we see the world in which we live in as God sees it. The judgment that Enoch bravely proclaimed still stands; it applies to today's world just as it did to the world of Enoch's day.  In harmony with Enoch's warning, Jehovah brought the great Deluge against that ungodly world in Noah's day. But that destruction set the pattern for a greater destruction yet to come. (Matthew 24:38, 39; 2 Peter 2:4-6) Today, as then, God stands poised with his holy myriads to being a righteous judgment against an ungodly word. Each of us needs to take Enoch's warning to heart and share it with others. Our family and friends might stand apart from us. We may feel alone at times. But Jehovah never abandoned Enoch; neither will he abandon his faithful servants today!

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "TRANSFERRED SO AS NOT TO SEE DEATH"

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH -ENOCH "PROPHESIED ABOUT THEM"

Enoch may have felt lonely as man of faith in such a faithless world. But did his God, Jehovah take notice of him? He did. The day came when Jehovah communicated with this faithful servant of his. God gave Enoch a message to deliver to the people of his day. He thus made Enoch a prophet, the first one whose message is revealed in the Bible We know of this because Jude, a half-brother of Jesus, was inspired to write down Enoch's prophetic words many centuries later.

What was Enoch's prophecy? It went as follows: "Look! Jehovah came with his holy myriads to execute judgment against all, and to convict all the ungodly concerning all their ungodly deeds that they did in an ungodly way and concerning all the shocking things that ungodly sinners spoke against him." (Jude 14,15) Now the first thing you may notice is that Enoch spoke in the past tense, as if God had already done what the prophecy describes. That is a pattern that many prophecies thereafter followed. The idea is this: The prophet is speaking of something that is so certain to occur that it may be described as if it has already happened! - ISAIAH 46:10. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - ENOCH "PROPHESIED ABOUT THEM" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "ENOCH KEPT WALKING WITH THE TRUE GOD" - Conclusion

 Think of the contrast between Enoch and Adam. Adam, though perfect, sinned against Jehovah and left his descendants a legacy of rebellion and misery. Enoch, though imperfect, walked with God and left his descendants a legacy of faith. Adam died when Enoch was 308 years old. Did Adam's family mourn that profoundly selfish forefather? We do not know. In any case, Enoch "kept walking with the true God." - GENESIS 5:24.

If you are providing for your family, consider what you can learn from the faith of Enoch. Vital though it is to provide for your family physically, there is no need more important than the spiritual kind. (1 Timothy 5:8) You fill that need not only by what you say but what you do. If you choose to walk with God as Enoch did, letting God's inspired standards guide you in life, you too will give your family a legacy-a priceless example for them to imitate.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - ENOCH "PROPHESIED ABOUT THEM"

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH- "ENOCH KEPT WALKING WITH THE TRUE GOD" -Continue

 The same Bible verse says that Enoch continued to walk with Jehovah after he fathered his son Methuselah. So we see Enoch as a family man when was about 65 years old. He had a wife, unnamed in Scripture, and an unspecified number of "sons and daughters." If a father is to walk with God while raising and providing for a family, he must try to take for his family in God's way. Enoch understood that Jehovah expected him to stick faithfully to his wife. (Genesis 2:24) And he surely did his best to instruct his children about Jehovah God. With what result?

The inspired record offers only tantalizing hints on that score. It says nothing about the faith of Enoch's son Methuselah, who life span became the longest in the Bible record, ending in the year the great Deluge came. However, Methuselah father a son named Lamech. Lamech's life overlapped with that of his grandfather Enoch for over a century. And Lamech grew up to show notable faith.  Jehovah inspired him to utter a prophecy about Noah, Lamech's son, and that prophecy came true after the flood. Noah, like great-grandfather Enoch, was singled out as a name who walked with God. Noah never met Enoch. But Enoch left a rich legacy.  Noah never learned of that legacy from his own father, Lamech, or from his grandfather Methuselah or perhaps even from Jared, Enoch's father, who died when Noah was 366 years old. - GENESIS 5:25-29; 6:9; 9:1. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "ENOCH KEPT WALKING WITH THE TRUE GOD" -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "ENOCH KEPT WALKING WITH THE TRUE GOD"

 Mankind was in a bad way when Enoch came along. It was the seventh generation in the line of Adam. Granted, humans were much closer to the physical perfection that Adam and Eve had once possessed and lost. That is why people still lived so long. Yet, they were in terrible condition morally and spiritually. Violence was prevalent. That trend has started in the second generation, when Cain murdered his brother Abel. One of Cain's descendants seems to have been quite proud of being more violent and vengeful than Cain! In the third generation, a new evil arose. People began calling on the name of Jehovah, but not as a reverent act of worship. They were evidently using God's sacred name in a blasphemous, disrespectful way. - GENESIS 4:8, 23-26.

That kind of corrupt religion was likely in full sway during Enoch's time. As Enoch grew up, then, he faced a choice. Would he fit in with the crowd of his day?  Or would he search for the true God, Jehovah, who had made the heavens and the earth? He must have been deeply moved to learn about Abel, who had died as a martyr because he worshipped Jehovah in way that pleased Him. Enoch decided to make a similar stand. Genesis 5:22 tells us: "Enoch continued to walk with the true God."  That remarkable expression singles out Enoch as a godly man in a godless world. He is the first human the Bible describes that way.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "ENOCH KEPT WALKING WITH THE TRUE GOD"

From the jw.org publications 

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH "He Had Pleased God Well"

 ENOCH had lived together a long time. It might be hard for us to imagine, but that man's life spans by today's standards! But he was not truly old, not in the world of time. Back then, over 50 centuries ago, people lived far longer than they do today. Adam, the first man, had been living for over six hundred years when Enoch was born, and Adam lived on for another three centuries! Some of Adam's descendants lived even longer than that. So at 365, Enoch may still have looked fairly vibrant, like a man who had much of his life yet ahead of him. In fact, he did not. 

Enoch was likely in great danger. Picture him on the run, unable to put out of his mind the reaction of people to whom he had recently spoken a message from God. Their faces were twisted with rage. Those people hated him. They despised his message, and they loathed God who had sent him. They could not strike out at Enoch's God, Jehovah, but they could certainly strike out at this man! Perhaps Enoch wondered if he would ever see his family again. Did he think of his wife and daughters or his son, Methuselah or of his grandson Lamech? - GENESIS - 5:21-23, 25.

Enoch is a somewhat mysterious figure in the Bible record. Only three short Bible passages deal with him at any length. (Genesis 5:21-24; Hebrews 11:5; Jude 14, 15) However, those verses provide, enough brushstrokes to paint a picture of a man with great faith. Do you provide for your family? Have you ever faced the struggle of standing up for what you know to be right? If so, you may learn much from the faith of Enoch.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "ENOCH KEPT WALKING WITH THE TRUE GOD"

From the jw.org publications

 

Did You Know? /Why Did Foreigners Serve in King David's Army? - Conclusion

 Another foreigner who remained fiercely loyal to David was Ittai the Gittite. Ittai and his 600 warriors supported King David when David's son Absalom rebelled and turned the hearts of the men of Israel against the king. David initially suggested to Ittai that because he was a foreigner, it was not his fight. But Ittai said: "As surely as Jehovah is living and as surely as my lord the king is living, wherever my lord the king may be, whether for death for life, there your servant will be!" - 2 SAMUEL 15:6, 18-21. 

Even though the Cherethites, the Pelethites, and the Gittites were foreigners, they recognized Jehovah as the true God and David and Jehovah's anointed one.  How grateful David must have been to have such loyal men at his side!

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/ENOCH - "He Had Pleased God Well"

From the jw.org publications 

Did You Know? /Why Did Foreigners Serve in King David's Army

 AMONG the foreign warriors in David's army were such men as Zelek, the Ammonite, Uriah the Hittite, and Ithmah the Moabite. (1 Chronicles 11:39, 41, 46) David's forces also included "the Cherethites, the Pelethites, and the Gittites." (2 Samuel 15:18) The Cherethites and the Pelethites were generally thought to be closely related to the Philistines. (Ezekiel25:16) The Gittites originated from the Philistine city of Gath. - JOSHUA 13:2, 3; 1 SAMUEL 6:17. 18. 

Why could David enlist foreigners in his army? He was confident that they were loyal to him and, more important, to Jehovah. For example, regarding the Cherethites and the Pelethites, the New Interpreter's Dictionary of the Bible says:  "They remained loyal to David in the most difficult circumstances during his reign." How so? When "all the men of Israel deserted King David to follow a troublemaker named Sheba," the Cherethites  and the Pelethites stayed true to David and helped him to suppress Sheba's rebellion. (2 Samuel 20:1, 2, 7) On another occasion, King David's son Adonijah attempted to unsurp the throne. However, the Cherethites  and the Pelethites remained loyal to David and helped to install Solomon, the one whom Jehovah had chosen, as the king's successor. - 1 KINGS 1:24-27, 38, 39. 

Next time: Did You Know? / Why Did Foreigners Serve in King David's Army?  - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - LOOKING TO THE FUTURE WITH COFIDNCE

 Sirkka and I feel profoundly indebted to Jehovah for the privilege of having spent most of our life in full-time service. I am also very grateful to Jehovah for giving me such a loving and faithful wife all these years. 

Soon I will turn 70 years of age and will relinquish my privilege as field instructor ad a traveling overseer. However, this does not dishearten me. Why not? Because I firmly believe that what honors Jehovah most is what we serve him with modesty and that we praise him from a heart overflowing with love and gratitude.  (Micah 6:8; Mark12:32-34) To honor Jehovah, we do not need be in the limelight.

As I look back on the assignments that I have enjoyed, I realize that did not receive them because I was more worthy than others, nor did I have these privileges because of any outstanding ability. Far from it! Rather, Jehovah extended these assignments to me because of his undeserved kindness. He granted me these privileges   despite my weaknesses. I know that I have been able to fulfill these assignments only with Jehovah's help. In this way, my weaknesses have magnified God's strength. - 2 CORINTHIANS 12:9. 

Next time: Did You Know? / Why Did Foreigners Serve in King David's Army?

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA -ADDITIONAL PRIVILEGES AND STRUGGLES - Conclusion

 I have a strong personality. This has helped me to face difficult circumstances.  However, I have at times been overly zealous in trying to correct matter in congregations. On occasion, I have energetically exhorted some to be loving and reasonable with others. Ironically, though, it was in those moments that I lacked the same qualities. -ROMANS 7:21-23.

Because of those failings, I have sometimes felt very discouraged. (Romans 7:24) At one point, I told Jehovah in prayer that it would be best for me to leave missionary service and return to Finland. That evening, I attended a congregation meeting. The encouragement I received there convinced me that I should stay in my assignment and keep working on my imperfections. To this day, I am touched by how clearly Jehovah answered that prayer. Additionally, I deeply appreciated how kindly he helped me to overcome my weaknesses. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - LOOKING TO THE FUTURE WITH CONFIDENCE 

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - ADDITIONAL PRIVILEGES AND STRUGGLES

 In 1997, I was appointed as an instructor of the Ministerial Training School. I always appreciated attending theocratic schools, but I never imagined having the delightful privilege of teaching one.

Later, I served as a district overseer. When that arrangement was discontinued, I returned to the circuit work. So for over 30 years, I have enjoyed serving as an instructor and a traveling overseer. These assignments have been a source of many blessings.  However, it has not all been a bed of roses. Let me explain.

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - ADDITIONAL PRIVILEGES AND STRUGGLES - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - JEHOVAH GIVES US "THE DESIRE AND THE POWER TO ACT" - Conclusiob

 We had other close calls. One one occasion while we were in the door-to-door work, my wife came running toward me, looking somewhat pale. She said that someone shot at her. That startled me.  However, we later realized that the gunman was not aiming at Sirkka; he was shooting a man who passing right next to her. 

In time, we learned to cope with violence. We were encouraged by the resilience of the local Witnesses who face situations like these and worse. We concluded that if Jehovah was helping them, he would help us too. We always needed the advice of local elders, took precautions, and left the rest in Jehovah's hands.

Of course, some situations were not as dangerous as we suspected. Once, I heard what sounded like two women screaming insults at each other outside the house I was visiting. I was not interested in watching an argument, but the householder coaxed me over to the patio. As things turned out, the "argument" was actually between two parrots that were mimicking the neighbors. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - ADDITONAL PRIVILEGES AND STRUGGLES

From the jw.org publications 

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - JEHOVAH GIVES US"THE DESIRE AND THE POWER TO ACT"

 In 1990, we were assigned to the traveling work. Our first circuit was in the capital city, Bogata'. The assignment intimidated us. My wife and I are ordinary people without any special talents. And we were not used to living in a bustling metropolis. However, Jehovah fulfilled his promise found at Philippians 2:13: "God is the one who for the sake of his good pleasure energizes you, giving you both the desire and the power to act." 

Later. we were assigned to a circuit in the area of Medellin, the city I mentioned at the outset. People there had grown so accustomed to street violence that it no longer alarmed them.  For example, one time I was conducting a Bible study, a shoot-out began outside the house I was visiting. I was about to drop to the floor, but the Bible student continued reading the paragraph, unfazed. When he finished reading, he excused himself and went outside. After a while, he came back with two children and calmly said, "My apologies, but I had to get my kids." 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY EKKI MIKELA - JEHOVAH GIVES US "THE DESIRE AND THE POWER TO ACT" -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - THE POWER OF PRAYER - Conclusion

 Fernando got baptized in January 1990, six months after he started studying. Thereafter, he became a regular pioneer. With one local Witness in Algeciras, it was now safe enough for the branch office to assign special pioneers to the area. In February 1992, a congregation was formed in that town. 

Did Fernando limit his preaching to his hometown? No! After he married, he and his wife moved to San Vicente del Caguan. another town where there were no Witnesses.  They helped establish a congregation. In 2002, Fernando was appointed as a circuit overseer, and he and his wife, Olga, continued in the traveling work to this day.

From this experience, I learned how important it is to pray about specific matters relating to our theocratic assignments. Jehovah does what we cannot do. After all this, this is his harvest, not ours. - MATTHEW 9:38. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - JEHOVAH GIVES US "THE DESIRE AND THE POWER TO ACT" 

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA -THE POWER OF PRAYER

 Not too far from our assignment in Neiva were towns with no Witnesses. I was very concerned about how the good news would reach those areas.  However, because of guerrilla warfare, these areas were not safe for nonlocals. So I prayed   that someone in one of these town would become a Witness. I thought such a person would have to live in Neiva to learn the  truth. Therefore, I also prayed ager baptism he would mature spiritually and return to his hometown to preach. I should have known that Jehovah had a far better solution than I did.

Soon thereafter, I started a Bible study with a young man named Fernando Gonzalez. He lived in Algeciras, one of the towns where there were no Witnesses. Fernando would have to travel over 50 kilometers (30 ml) to Neivia to work. He prepared well for each study ad immediately started attending all the meetings. From the first week of his study, Fernando would gathered others in his hometown and teach them what he had learned from his Bible study.  

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA -THE POWER OF PRAYER -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - OUR FIRST MISSIONARY ASSIGNMENT

 In Colombia, we were first assigned to the branch office. I tried to do my best in my assignment, but after a year at the branch, I felt I needed a change. For the first and only time in my life, I asked for a different assignment. Thereafter, we were assigned as field missionaries to the city of Neiva, in the department of Huila.

I have always enjoyed the field ministry. As a single pioneer, in Finland, I would at times, preach from early in the morning to late in the evening. As a newly married couple, Sirkka and I would spend full days preaching. When working in distinct territories, we would sometimes sleep in our car. This cut down on travel time and allowed us to get and early the next day. 

As field missionaries, we once again felt the same enthusiasm we had earlier for the ministry. Our congregation grew, and the Colombian brothers and sisters were respectful, loving, and appreciative.

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA -THE POWER OF PRAYER

From the jw.org publications 

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - GILEAD SCHOOL

 While we were attending Pioneer Service School in 1978 Raimo Kuokkanen, one of our instructors, encouraged us to apply for Gilead School. So we started studying English with the goal of qualifying to attend. However. in 1980, before we could apply, we were invited to serve at the branch office in Finland. At that time, Bethelites could not apply for Gilead.  But we wanted to serve where Jehovah thought best, not where we thought best. So we accepted the invitation. Nonetheless, we kept studying English just in case we ever had the opportunity for Gilead.

A few years later, the Governing Body extended to Bethelites the opportunity to apply for Gilead. We filled out applications immediately but not because were unhappy at Bethel. Quite the contrary! We just wanted to make ourselves available to serve where there was a greater need if we qualified. We were accepted to Gilead and graduated from the 79th class in September 1985. Our assignment was Colombia. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - OUR FIRST MISSIONARY ASSIGNMENT

From the jw.org publications

JEHOVAH CARED FOR US

 From the start of our marriage, Jehovah has shown us that he will care for our material need If we seek his Kingdom first. (Matthew 6:33) For example, Karttula, we did not have a car. At first we traveled by Bicycle. However, in winter the temperatures there would drop below freezing. To preach in the congregation's vast territory, we needed an automobile. But we did not have the money to buy one. 

Unexpectedly, my older brother came to visit us.  He kindly offered us his car. The insurance had been paid. We only had to buy fuel. After that, we had the vehicle we needed.

Jehovah showed us that he had taken on the responsibility to care for our material needs. Our job was to put Kingdom interests first. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA- GILEAD SCHOOL -Continue

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA -Conclusion

 When I was 12, my father passed away. After that,s could attend congregation meetings. The brothers in the congregation showed kind interest in me, and this motivated me to progress spiritually. I started reading the Bible daily and studying our Christian publications diligently. These good study habits were key to my getting baptized at the age of 14, on August 8, 1969.

Soon after I finished my secular schooling, I started regular pioneering. Within a few weeks, I move to serve where the need was greater, in Pielavesi, near the center of Finland.

In Pielavesi, I met the girl who would become my dear wife, Sirkka. I felt drawn to her modest personality and deep spirituality. She did not seek prominence or material comforts. Both of us longed to serve Jehovah as fully as possible, regardless of any privileges of service. We married on March 23, 1974.  Instead of going on a honeymoon, we left to serve in Karttula, where there was an even greater need for Kingdom preachers. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - JEHOVAH CARED FOR US

From the jw.org publications

LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI MAKELA - Continue

 MY YOUTH IN FINLAND

I was born in 1955, the youngest of three boys. I grew up near the southern coast of Finland in an area now known as the city of Vantaa. My mother got baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses a few years before I was born. However, my father opposed the truth and did not allow my mother to study with us children or to take us to congregation meetings. So she would teach us Bible truths when my father was not around.

From childhood onward, I took a stand for Jehovah. For example, once when I was seven, my schoolteacher became furious with me because I would not eat Verilattyja (Finnish blood pancakes). With one hand, she squeezed my cheeks to separate my closed lips, and with the other, she tried to force a fork with a piece of pancake into my mouth. I managed to knock the fork out of her hand. 

Next time: LIFE STORY/AS TOLD BY ERKKI  MAKELA - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications