"DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU" - Conclusion

 Mary accepted her son's correction," for she was a sensitive and humble woman. She turned to those serving at the feast and said simply: "Do whatever he tells you." Mary saw that it was not her place to direct her son; rather, she and others should take direction from him. For his part, Jesus showed that he shared his mother's compassion for this newly married couple. He performed the first of his miracles, turning water into fine wine. The result? "His disciples put their faith in him." So Mary too put her faith in Jesus. She looked at him not just as her son but as her Lord and Savior. 

Parents today can learn much from Mary's faith. Granted, no one else has ever raised a child quite like Jesus. But when any child, however imperfect becomes an adult, the transition may present challenges. A parent might tend to continue treating her son or daughter as a young child, though such treatment may no longer be appropriate. (1 Corinthians 13:11) How can a parent be helpful to grown offspring? One way is to express sincere confidence that a faithful son or daughter will continue to apply Bible teachings and receiver Jehovah's blessing as a result. A parent's humble expressions of faith and confidence may do grown children much good. Jesus no doubt cherished Mary's support during the eventful years that followed.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/MARY - She Survived the Long Sword of Grief - "HIS BROTHERS WERE . . . NOT EXERCISING FAITH IN HIM"

From the jw.org publications 

"DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU" -Continue

 Jesus went to get baptized, then became God's Anointed One, or Messiah. (Luke 3:21,22) Then he began to select his disciples. Urgent though his work was, he still took time for happy occasions with family and friends. Along with his mother, his disciples, and his fleshly brothers, he went to a wedding feast at Cana, which was evidently a hilltop town some eight miles (13 km) from Nazareth. During the festivities, Mary became aware of a problem. Perhaps she noticed that some among the family of the couple exchanged panicky glances and urgent whispers. They had run out of wine! In their culture, such a lapse of customary hospitality would shame the family, marring the occasion terrible. Mary felt for them, and she turned to Jesus. 

They have no wine," she told her son. What did she expect him to do? We can only imagine, but she knew that her son was a great man who would do great things. Perhaps she hoped he would start now. In effect, she was saying to him, "Son, please do something about this!" Jesus' reply must have surprised her. He said: "Woman, why is that a concern to me and you?" Jesus' words did not mean any disrespect, although they have been misinterpreted that way. His words did, however, convey a gentle reproof. Jesus was reminding his mother that she really did not have a say in the way he directed his ministry that was reserved for his Father, Jehovah.

Next time: "DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU" - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/MARY - She Survived the Sword of Grief - "DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU"

 Let us go back three and a half years: Mary sensed that change was coming. Even in the little town of Nazareth, people were talking about John the Baptist and his stirring message of repentance. Mary could see that her eldest son views the news as a signal; it was time to embark on his ministry. (Matthew 3:1, 13) For Mary ad her household, Jesus' absence would mean and upheaval of sorts. Why?

It seems likely that Mary's husband, Joseph, had already died. If so, Mary no stranger to loss. Jesus was now called not only "the carpenter's son" but also the carpenter." Evidently, Jesus had taken over his father's business and had assumed the role of provider for the family, which included at least six children who were born after him. (Matthew 13:55, 56; Mark 6:3) Even if Jesus had been training James-likely the next oldest son-to carry on the trade, the departure of the eldest would not be easy for the family. Mary already bore a heavy load; did she dread this transition? We can only guess. But her is more important question: How would she respond when Jesus of Nazareth became Jesus Christ, the long-promised Messiah? One Bible account reveals something in that regard. - JOHN 2:1-12. 

Next time: "DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU"

From the jw.org publications

IMITATE THEIR FAITH/MARY -She Survived the Sword of Grief

 MARY sank to her knees, her agony too deep for words. Still echoing in her ears was her son's last outcry as he died hours after torment. The sky had gone dark at midday. Now the earth shook violently. (Matthew 27:45, 51) It may have seemed to Mary that Jehovah himself was letting the world know that he, more than anyone else, was deeply hurt by the death of Jesus Christ.

As the afternoon light dispelled the gloom shrouding Golgotha, or Skull Place, Mary grieved for her son. (John 19:17, 25) Memories likely flooded her mind. One that may have surfaced was recollection from Some 33 years earlier. When she and Joseph had just presented their precious baby at the temple in Jerusalem, an aged man named Simeon was inspired to utter a prophecy. He foretold great things for Jesus, but he added that one day; Mary would come to feel as if she were run through with a long sword. (Luke 2:25-35) Only now, in this tragic hour, did she fully grasp the truth of those words. 

It had been said that the death of one's own child is the worst, the most painful, loss that a human can face. Death is a terrible enemy, and it wounds all of us one way or another. (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:26) Is it possible to survive such wounds? As we consider Mary's life from the start of Jesus' ministry to the time of his death and just beyond, we will learn much about the faith that helped Mary to survive the sword of grief. 

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/MARY - "DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU" 

From the jw.org publications

More Sayings to Preserve - Conclusion

 What a good decision Joseph and Mary had made in bringing their baby to Jehovah's temple in Jerusalem!  They thus launched their son a lifelong course of faithful attendance at Jehovah's temple. While there, they gave of themselves according to their ability and received words of instruction and encouragement. Mary surely left the temple that day stronger in faith, her heart full of spiritual sayings to meditate on and share with others.

It is a beautiful thing to see parents today following that example. Among Jehovah's Witnesses, parents faithfully bring their children to Christian meetings. Such parents give what they can, offering words of encouragement to their fellow believers. And they come away stronger, happier, and full of good things to share with others. What a pleasure it is to meet them! As we do, we will find that our faith, like Mary's will grow ever stronger.

Next time: IMITATE THEIR FAITH/MARY -She Survived the Sword of Grief

From the jw.org publications

Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart" - More Sayings to Preserve

 On the baby's eighth day, Mary and Joseph had him circumcised as the Mosaic Law required, naming him Jesus, as directed. (Luke 1:31) Then, on the 40th day, they took him from Bethlehem to the temple in Jerusalem, some six miles (about 10 km) away, and presented the purification offerings that the Law allowed for poorer folk-two turtledoves or two pigeons. If they felt shame in offering less than a ram and a turtledove that other parents could afford, they put such feelings aside. At any rate, they received powerful encouragement while they were there. - LUKE 2:21-24. 

And aged man Name Simeon approached them and gave Mary even more sayings to treasure in her heart. He had been promised that he would see the Messiah before he died, and Jehovah's holy spirit indicated to him that little Jesus was the foretold Savior. Simeon also warned Mary of the pain that she would day have to endure. He said that she would feel as if a long sword were run through her. (Luke 2:25-35) Even those foreboding words may have helped Mary to endure when that hard time arrived, three decades later. After Simeon, a prophetess named Anna Saw the little Jesus and began speaking about him to everyone who cherished the hope of Jerusalem's deliverance. - Read LUKE 2:36-38. 

Next time: More Sayings to Preserve -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

A Visit Brings Encouragement - Conclusion

 Mary was surely exhausted from the rigors of childbirth, yet she listened intently to every word. And she did more: "Mary began to preserve all these sayings, drawing conclusion in her heart." (Luke 2:19) This young woman was truly thoughtful. She knew that this angelic message was vital. Her God, Jehovah, wanted her to know and to appreciate her son's identity and importance. so she did more than listen. Stored away the words in her heart so that she could ponder over them again and again in the months and years to come. Here is an outstanding key to the faith that Mary showed throughout her life. - Read Hebrews 11:1.

Will you follow Mary's example? Jehovah has filled the pages of his Word with vital spiritual truth. However, those truths can do us little good unless we first pay attention to them. We that by reading the Bible regularly-not merely as work of literature but as the inspired Word of God. (2 Timothy 3:16) Then, like Mary, we need to store up spiritual sayings in our heart, drawing conclusions. If we meditate on what we read in the Bible, contemplating ways that we can apply Jehovah's counsel more fully, we will give our faith the nourishment it needs to grow. 

Next time: Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart"- More Sayings to Preserve

From the jw.org publications 

Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart" -A Visit Brings Encouragement

 A sudden commotion disturbed the peaceful scene. Shepherds rushed into the stable to see the family and the child in particular. These men were bubbling over with excitement, their faces radiating joy. They hurried in from the hillsides where living with their flocks. They told the wondering parents about a marvelous experience they had just had. On the hillside during the night watch, and angel had suddenly appeared to them. Jehovah's glory had gleamed all around, and the angel told them that the Christ, or Messiah, had just been born in Bethlehem. They would find the child lying in a manger, swaddled in cloth bands. Then, something even more spectacular happened -a mighty host of angels appeared praising God! - LUKE 2:8-14.

No wonder these humble men came rushing into Bethlehem! They must have been thrilled to see a newborn infant lying there just as the angel had described. They did not keep this good news to themselves. "They made known the saying . . . and all that heard marveled over the things told them by the shepherds." (Luke 2:17, 18) The religious leaders of the day evidently looked down on shepherds. But Jehovah clearly valued these humble, faithful men. How, though, did this visit affect Mary? 

Next time: A Visit Brings Encouragement - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

Birth of Christ - Conclusion

 It is at this point that the account adds a famous detail: "She bound him with cloth bands and laid him in a manger." (Luke 2:7) Nativity plays, paintings, and scenes around the world sentimentalize this setting. Consider, though, the reality. a manger is a feeding trough, a bin in which farm animals eat. Remember the family was lodging in a stable, hardly a place to be noted for good air or hygiene-then or now. Really, what parents choose such a spot for childbirth if there were any other options? Most parents want the best for their children. How much more so did Mary and Joseph want the best for the Son of God!

However, they did not let their limitations imbitter them; they simply did the best they could with what they had. Notice, for instance that Mary herself cared for the infant, wrapping his up snugly in cloth bands, then laying him carefully in the manger to sleep, ensuring that he would be warm and safe. Mary was not about to let anxiety over her present circumstances distract her from providing the best that she could. She and Joseph both knew, too, that caring spiritually for this child would be the most important thing they could do for him. (Read Deuteronomy 6:6-8) Today, wise parents cultivate similar priorities as they bring their children up in this spiritually impoverished world. 

Next time: Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart" - A Visit Brings Encouragement

From the jw.org publications  

Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart" -The Birth of Christ

 Mary must have drew a sigh of relief when she first caught sight of Bethlehem. As they mounted the hillsides, passing by olive groves -among the last of the crops to be harvested - Mary and Joseph may well have thought about the history of this little village. It was too insignificant to be numbered among Judah's cities, just as Micah the prophet had said; yet it was the birthplace of Boaz, Naomi, and later David, all more than a thousand years earlier. 

Mary and Joseph found the village to be crowded. Others had arrived to register before them, so there was no space for them at the lodging room. They had no choice but to settle down for the night in a stable. Just imagine Joseph's concern as he saw his wife suffering a sharp discomfort she had never known, which then intensified. Here, of all places, her birth pangs had begun. 

Women everywhere can empathize with Mary. Some 4,000 years earlier, Jehovah had foretold that it would be the common lot of women to suffer pain during childbirth because of inherited sin. (Genesis 3:16) There is no evidence to suggest that Mary was any exception. Luke's account draw a discreet curtain of privacy around the scene, saying simply: "She gave birth to her son, the firstborn." (Luke 2:7) Yes, her "firstborn had arrived - the first of Mary's many children, a least seven in all. (Mark 6:3) This one, though, would never stand apart. Not only was he her firstborn, but he was Jehovah's own "firstborn of all creation," the only-begotten Son of God! - COLOSSIANS 1:15. 

Next time: The Birth of Christ -Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

The Trip to Bethlehem - Conclusion

 Nonetheless, Luke writes that Joseph went "to get registered with Mary." He also notes that Mary "had been given [to Joseph] in marriage as promised." (Luke 2:4, 5) Being Joseph's wife made a great deal of difference in Mary's decision. She viewed her husband as her spiritual head, embracing her God-given role as his helper by supporting him in his decisions. So she met this potential challenge to her faith with simple obedience. 

What else may have motivated Mary to obey? Did she know of the prophecy about Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Messiah? The Bible does not say. We cannot rule out the possibility, for the fact was evidently common knowledge among religious leaders and even people in general. (Matthew 2:1-7; John 7:40-42) When it came to the Scriptures, Mary was far from an ignorant girl. (Luke 1:46-55) at any rate, whether Mary decided to travel in order to obey her husband, a secular decree, or Jehovah's own prophecy-or because of a combination of factor-she set a splendid example. Jehovah greatly values a humble, obedient spirit in both men and women. In our age, when submission often seems to be among the most disregarded virtues, Mary's example stands as a beacon for faithful people everywhere.

Next time: Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart" -The Birth of Christ

From the jw.org publications 

 

The Trip to Bethlehem

 Joseph and Mary were not the only ones on the move. Caesar Augustus had recently decreed that a registration be carried out in the land, and people had to travel to their own town of origin in order to comply. How Joseph respond? The account reads: "Of course, Joseph also went from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to David's city, which is called Bethlehem, because of his being a member of the house and family of David." - LUKE 2:1-4.  

It was no coincidence that Caesar issued his decree at this time. A prophecy written down some seven centuries earlier foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. Now, it so happened that there was a town named Bethlehem a mere seven miles (11 km) from Nazareth. However, the prophecy specified that it was "Bethlehem Ephrathah" that would produce the Messiah. (Read Micah 5:2) To reach that little village from Nazareth, travelers covered some 80 hilly miles (130 km) via Samaria. That was the Bethlehem to which Joseph was summoned, for it was the ancestral home of the family of King David-the family to which both Joseph and his bride belonged. 

Would Mary support Joseph in his decision to comply? After all, the trip would hard on her. It was likely early in the autumn of the year, light rains were possible as the dry season gradually ended. What is more, the phrase "went up from Galilee" is appropriate, for Bethlehem was perched at a lofty altitude of over 2,500 feet (760 m)-quite a climb, an arduous end to a trek of several days. Perhaps it would take longer than usual, for Mary's condition might require numerous periods of rest. Now, of all times, a young woman might yearn to stay close to home, where she had family and friends who were ready to help her when her birth pangs began. Without a doubt, she needed to have courage to take this trip. 

Next time: The Trip to Bethlehem - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart"

 MARY shifted her weight uncomfortably atop the little beast of burden. She had been riding for hours. Just ahead, Joseph walked steadily onward, leading the way along the road toward distant Bethlehem. Mary once again felt the stirring of life within her.

Mary was well along in her pregnancy; the Bible describes her at this time with the expressive phrase, "heavy with child." (Luke 2:5) As the couple passed by one field after another, perhaps some of the farmers looked up from their plowing or sowing and wondered why a woman is such condition would go on a journey. What had led Mary so far from her home in Nazareth?

It all began months earlier when this young Jewish woman received an assignment that was unique in all human history. She was to give birth to the child who would become the Messiah, the Son of God! (Luke 1:35) As the time to give birth approached, the need to take this journey arose. In the process, Mary faced a number of challenges to her faith. Let us see what helped her to stay spiritually strong.

Next time: The Trip to Bethlehem

From the jw.org publications 

Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day?

 Have a specific goal in mind. For example, if you read from three to five chapters every day, you can read the entire Bible in just one year. 

Once you have read the entire Bible, why stop there?You can use the same schedule to read the entire Bible ever year, perhaps starting each time from a different section. Or if you would like to complete your reading of the Bible at a slower pace, you can take two or three days to read each of the scheduled readings.

Each time you read the Bible, you will find new things that apply to your life, things that you have noticed before. Why? "The scene of this world is changing," and our lives and circumstances are changing constantly too. (1 Corinthians 7:31) Make it your firm determination, then, to look daily in the mirror of God's Word, the Bible. In this way, you can be sure that you allow God to speak to you every day. - PSALM 16:8. 

Next time: Chapter Eighteen/She Drew "Conclusions in Her Heart" 

From the jw.org publications

Meeting the Challenge

 Perhaps you have already tried to start a Bible reading program. Have you read the entire Bible from cover to cover? That is an excellent way to become more familiar with its contents. However, some have started many times to read the entire Bible, only to find their program gets interrupted. Have you faced this challenge? What can can do to reach the goal of reading the entire Bibel? Why not try the following two suggestions?

Schedule Bible reading into your daily routine. Select a time each day when will most likely be able to do your Bible reading. Also plan a backup strategy. If for some reason you are unable to do your Bible reading at your preferred time, have another time selected so that you never let a day go by without God's Word. In this way you will imitate the example of the ancient Beroeans. Of them, we ae told: "They received the word with the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures daily as to whether things these were so." - ACTS 17:11. 

Next time: Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day? -Have a specific goal in mind.

From the jw.org publications

Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day? - Conclusion

 The first psalm likewise extols the benefits of regular Bible reading when it states: "Happy is the man that has not walked in the counsel of the wicked ones, and in the way of sinners has not stood, and in the seat of ridiculers has not sat. But his delight in the law of Jehovah, and in his law he reads in an undertone day and night. And he will certainly become like a tree planted by streams of water, that gives its own fruit in its season and the foliage of which does not wither, and everything he does will succeed." (Psalm 1:1-3) Surely we want to be like such a man.

Many people make it a daily habit to read the Bible. When asked why he reads the Bible every day, one Christian replied: "If I repeated pray to God during the day and expect him to hear me, why shouldn't I also listen to God by reading his Word every day? If we want to be a good friend, why would we do all the talking?" He has a point. Reading the Bible is just like listening to God because we thereby get his viewpoint on matters.

Next time: Meeting the Challenge

From the jw.org publications

Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day? - Continue

 The Bible not only reveals where adjustments need to be made but also helps us to make adjustments. The apostle Paul wrote: "All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining  in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) Notice of the four benefits highlighted, three of them - reproving, setting thing straight, and disciplining-involve adjustments in our attitude and actions. If we need to look regularly in a mirror to ensure that our appearance is acceptable, how much more so must we need to read God 's Word, the Bible, on a regular basis!

Upon anointing Joshua to lead the nation of Israel, Jehovah God told him: "This book of the law should not depart from your mouth, and you must in an undertone read it day and night, in order that you may take care to do according to all that is written in it;  for then you will make your way successful and then you will act wisely." (Joshua 1:8) Yes, to be successful, Joshua needed to read God's Word "day and night," on a regular basis.

Next time: Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day? - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications 

Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day?

 How often do you look at yourself in the mirror? For most of us, this is a daily practice-perhaps something we do several times a day. Why? Because we are concerned about our appearance. 

Reading the Bible can be likened to peering into a mirror. (James 1:23-25) The message recorded in God's Word has the power to allow us to see ourselves as we really are. It "pierces even to the dividing of soul and spirit." (Hebrews 4:12) In other words, it divides what we appear to be on the outside from what we really are on the inside. It shows us where adjustments are needed, just a mirror does. 

Next time: Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day? - Continue

From the jw.org publications

what the Bible Does Not Say - Conclusion

 What do you think?

As noted above, the Bible describes in simple and accurate terms the beginning of the universe, the original state of the earth, and the development of life. Might it be, then, that the Bible has also accurately identified the One who created those things? "The origin of life [as] a result of the supernatural event," says the Encyclopedia Britannica, "is in its most general form not inconsistent with contemporary scientific knowledge." 

Consider this: 

Read Genesis 1:1-2:4. Contrast that account with ancient creation myths. The Babylonians, for example, believed that the universe and humans were made from the corpse of a goddess and the blood of a god. Ancient Egyptians supposed that the god Ra created humans from tears. In China some thought that the dead body of a giant had transformed into the natural elements of the earth and the humans descended from the fleas on his body. Do you think that the Genesis account belongs among those myths? Or is it scientifically plausible? 

Note: None this garbage about these so-called beliefs in this paragraph are not true. These places believed in gods that were not true gods, but material of some kind that may have eyes, but could see, have mouths that could not talk, noses that could not smell; or had any power of any kind at all. Which is why, nothing could help them in any prayer or chanting they did. None of them believed in the true God, who has more power than anyone in this whole universe. So, no Genesis does not belong in any myth of any kind. 

Watch the four-minute video Was the Universe Created? Search for this video title on jw.org. 

Next time: Do You Allow God to Speak to You Every Day?

From the jw.org publications

What the Bible Does Not Say

The Bible does not say that all life on earth was created in six 24- hours days. It said that God created everything in six days, the seventh day, he rested, so it referred to periods of time. (Genesis 1:1-31) For example, it states that the creation of our plane and life on it-during the six creative "days" spoken of in (Genesis 1- occurred in the period of time called "the day that Jehovah God made earth and heaven." (Genesis 2:4) So each of the creative "days" during which God prepared the earth for life and created life on it could represent extremely long periods of time.

The Bible does not say that living things cannot undergo changes in their makeup over time. The book of Genesis states that animals were created "according to their kinds" (Genesis 1:24. 25) The Bible word "kinds" is not a specific term, but it seems to refer to broad divisions of life- forms. Thus, a single "kind" may include many species or varieties. This wording allows for the possibility that within a "kind," changes in the variety and the types of species that lived in the same community could occur over time.

Next time: What the Bible Does Not Say - Conclusion 

Fr0m the jw.org publications

What the Bible Tells Us - What Does the Bible Not Say?

 Some people claim that Bible does not harmonize with modern scientific discovery. However, such claims are often based on a misunderstanding of what the Bible actually says. 

The Bible does not say that the universe or the earth is only 6,00 years old. Rather, it says simply that the earth and the universe were created "in the beginning." (Genesis 1:1) The Bible does not specify how long ago that was. 

Next time: What Does the Bible Not Say - Continue

From the jw.org publications

What the Bible Tells Us - Continue

 5 - Fifth Day: God creates underwater creatures and flying creatures with the ability to procreate with their kinds. - GENESIS 1:20-23

6 - Sixth Day: Land animals, both large and small, are created. The sixth day culminates with the creation of the first human couple. - GENESIS 1:24-31

Genesis 1:20-27 state that fish, birds, land animals, and finally humans were created. Scientists believe that the first fish appeared long before the first mammals and that humans appeared much later.

"Considering the brevity of the Biblical narrative, the match between the statements and timing in Genesis 1 and the discoveries of modern science is phenomenal." -Gerald L. Shroeder, physicist. 

Next time: What the Bible Tells Us - What Does the Bible Not Say?

From the jw.org publications

What the Bible Tells Us - Continue

 In what order did life appear on earth? 

1-First Day: Diffused light evidently penetrates the earth's atmosphere.  - GENESIS 1:3-5

2 -Second Day: The earth is covered with water and a dense mantle of vapor. These two elements are separated, creating a gap between them. -  GENESIS 1:6-8

3 -Third Day: surface water subsides, and dry ground appears. - GENESIS 1:9-13 

4 - Fourth Day: The sun and moon have been discernible from the earth's surface. - GENESIS 1:14-19

Next time: What the Bible Tells Us - Continue

From the jw.org publications

What the Bible Tells Us - Continue

What did the earth originally look like?

Genesis 1:2, 9 Describes the ancient earth as "formless and desolate," covered in water.

That description is echoed by modern scientific findings. Biologist Patrick Shih says that our planet started with an unbreathable atmosphere devoid of oxygen . . .overall looking more like a science fiction landscape." Astronomy magazine reports: "New research suggests ancient Earth was a water world, with little or no land in sight." 

How did our atmosphere change over time?

Genesis 3:1-5 indicates that when light first began to penetrate the atmosphere, it surface could not have been discernable from the earth's surface. Only later would the sun and the moon have been distinctly visible from the earth. - GENESIS 1:14-18. 

The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center says that our atmosphere first allowed only diffused light to reach the earth. It says: "Methane droplets in the air shrouded the young earth in a global haze." Later, "the methane haze cleared and the sky turned blue."

Next time: What the Bible Tells Us - Continue

From the jw.org publications

 

What the Bible Tells us

 "This is the history of the heavens and the earth in the same time they were created." (Genesis 2:4) With those words, the Bible summarizes it account of how our planet came to be. Does what the Bible says harmonize with scientific facts? Consider a few examples.

Has the universe always existed?

Genesis 1:1 states: "in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." 

Up into the second half of the 20th century, many prominent scientists believe that the universe always existed. But based on more recent discoveries, most scientists now acknowledge that our universe did, in fact, have a beginning. 

Next time: What the Bible Tells Us -Continue

From the jw.org publications 

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War? -Does the Bible book of Revelation refer to nuclear war?

 Some feel that the book of Revelation alludes to the devastation caused by a nuclear holocaust. (Revelation 16:4; 8:7-12; 16:1-21) Fore example, it describes making the fire come down out of heaven to the earth."(Revelation 13:11-13) Jehovah's Witnesses understand that this refers, not to full-scale nuclear war, but the use of atom bombs during the Second World War. 

Although the book of Revelation does refer to those nuclear events, its purpose is not describe the horrors in detail. When reading the book of Revelation, remember:

. The book uses many signs and symbols, that are not to be understood literally. - REVELATION 1:1. 

. The book is not intended to terrify its readers. Rather, its message brings happiness to those who understand and apply it. - REVELATION 1:3.

For further information, see the article "The Book of Revelation-What Does It Mean?" 

Next time: What the Bible Tells Us

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War? -What is the Bible's solution to war?

 God will exercise his authority over warring nations by putting a stop to their conflicts and destroying their weapons of war. He will do this by means of his Kingdom, a heavenly government that will take over the administration of the earth's affairs. - DANIEL 46:9. 

God's Kingdom will teach people how to live in peace and harmony. Because only one government will rule over the entire earth, international disagreements will disappear, people will not even learn how to fight wars anymore! (Micah 4:1-3) The result? "Everyone will live in peace among his own vineyards and fig trees, and no one will make him afraid." - MICAH 4:4, Today's English Version. 

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear Wars? -Does the Bible book of Revelation refer to nuclear war?

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear Wars? - Does the Bible prophesy a nuclear Armageddon?

 Some connect Armageddon to global nuclear war. No doubt they imagine the catastrophic consequences of such an event.

The Bible, however, uses the word "Armageddon" to refer to a war between "the kings of the entire inhabited earth," or human governments, and God (Revelation 16:14, 16) Armageddon will not involve random destruction, leaving behind the devastation of a man-made nuclear holocaust. Rather, at Armageddon, God will destroy only the wicked, which will make true peace and security possible. - PSALM 37:9, 10; ISAIAH 32:17, 18; MATTHEW 6:10. 

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War? - What is the Bible's solution to war? 

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear Wars? - How can you cope with "nuclear anxiety"?

 Some may suffer from "nuclear anxiety," which has been defined as "fear of nuclear war and it consequences." The Bible's promises and advice can help those affected to cope and lessen their fears. How? 

The Bible describes a bright future for the earth and for those living on it. Learning about this hope can act as "an anchor for our lives," reducing anxiety. (Hebrews 6:19, footnote) We can also minimize anxiety by taking one day at a time, not being consumed by thoughts of what might happen in the future. As Jesus said, "each day has it enough of its own troubles." MATTHEW 6:4.

In fact, we all do well to take care of our mental and emotional health. We do that by avoiding unnecessary exposure to information that generates anxiety, such as discussions, predictions, and opinions about the latest nuclear developments. This does not mean that we choose to live in denial. Rather, we are taking steps to free our mind from dwelling on events over which we have no control and which may never happen.

"Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, but a good word cheers it up." - PROVERBS 12:25. 

Give yourself a break from bad news by focusing on the positive things in your life.

"Maythe God who gives hope fill you with all joy and peace by your trusting in him." -Romans 15:13.

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War? - Does the Bible prophesy a nuclear Armageddon? 

From the jw.com publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear Wars? - Will planet earth surivive?

 Yes. Even if man were to use nuclear weapons again, God would not allow the situation to escalate to the point of global annihilation.  The Bible says that our planet will not only survive threats to its existence but will also human life forever. 

"The earth remains forever." - ECCLESIASTES 1:4.

"God, the One who formed the earth, . , . did not create it simply for nothing, but formed it to be inhabited." - ISAIAH 45:18. 

Some people have imagined that, in the future, the earth will be inhabited by a handful of humans struggling to survive in a wasteland polluted by nuclear fallout. However, the Bible indicates that any damage done to the earth caused by warfare will be fully undone. 

Note: Either these people have been watching too many movies or listening to stupid propaganda.  Read the Bible, that is where you get your truth, not unbelievers.

"The wilderness and the parched land will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron." - ISAIAH 35:1. 

Our Creator has designed the earth with an amazing ability to heal itself. Ultimately, though, God will use his power to restore the earth; it will forever serve as a magnificent home for humankind. - PSALM 37:11, 29; Revelation 21:5. 

Next time: What Does God Say About Nuclear War? - How can you cope with "nuclear anxiety."?

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear Wars? -Would God permit nuclear war?

 The Bible does not say. It does not say that "fearful sights," or terrifying events, would occur in our day. (Luke 21:11) An example of such events includes atomic bombs being dropped during the Second Word War.  The Bible explains why God had permitted wars. To learn more, watch the video Why Does God Allow Suffering? 

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear Wars? - Will planet earth survive?

From the jw.org publications

Does the Bible Predict Nuclear War? - Conclusion

 Bible verses: "In the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will be . . .not open to any agreement, slanderers, without self-control, fierce." - 2 TIMOTHY 3:1-3. 

World events: Like many people today, world leaders are prone to disagree. And rather than use peaceful means to settle their differences, they may try to resolve their conflicts by using threats or force. Such actions stoke the threat of nuclear war. 

Next time: Would God permit a nuclear war?

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War? -Does the Bible Predict Nuclear War? - Continue

 Bible verse: "In the time of the end the king of the south will engage with [the king of the north] in a pushing." - DANIEL 11:40. 

Word events: Rival nations and their allies are pushing, or competing, for supremacy, as the Bible predicted. Today's biggest nuclear powers might avoid direct confrontation, but they are expanding the capabilities of their nuclear weapons.

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War? - Does the Bible Predict Nuclear War? - Conclusion

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War - Does the Bible predict nuclear war?

 The Bible does not specifically mention nuclear war. However, the threat of nuclear war is a result of attitudes and events that the Bible foretold.

Consider the following Bible verses in the context of current world events: 

Bible verses: Jesus' disciples asked: "What will be the sign of your presence of the conclusion of the system of things? " Jesus replied: "Nation will rise again nation and kingdom against kingdom." - MATTHEW 24:3, 7.

World events: Countries, including those with nuclear capabilities, increasingly resort to armed conflict. 

Next time: Does the Bible predict nuclear war? - Continue

From the jw.org publications

What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War?

 Our world continues to face the threat of nuclear war as world powers maintain and expand their nuclear arsenals. People are naturally concerned that the greater number of nuclear weapons that exist, the greater the danger that a nuclear war will start. There is even the fear that the use of just one small-scale nuclear weapon will ignite a full-scale nuclear war that will devastate our world. We are living with, as the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists observes, "the ever-present danger of nuclear war." 

Could nuclear war possible occur? If so, will out planet survive? And how can we cope with our anxiety about a potential nuclear war? What does the Bible say? 

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War? -Does the Bible predict nuclear war? 

From the jw.org publications 

Hope for the Homeless and the Poor - PRINCIPLES THAT CAN IMPROVE ECONOMIC SECURITY

 Avoid unnecessary debt. "The borrower is a slave to the lender." -PROVERBS 22:7.

Beware of the get-rich-quick schemes. "The naive person believes every word, but the shrewd one ponders each step. - PROVERBS 14:15; 22:26, 27. 

Be a diligent worker.  "The lazy person has his cravings, yet he has nothing, but the diligent one will fully satisfied." - PROVERBS 13:4. 

Exercise self-control. "A drunkard and a glutton will come to poverty." -PROVERBS 23:21.

Have a balanced outlook. "Give me neither poverty nor riches." - PROVERBS 30:8, 9. 

Be generous, not stingy. "The generous person will prosper." - PROVERBS 11:25, 

Next time: What Does the Bible Say About Nuclear War?

From the jw.org publications

WHEN HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY WILL BE NO MORE

 Jesus made God's Kingdom the focus of his teaching. (Luke 4:43) He even taught people to pray: "Let your Kingdom come. Let your will be done in heaven as on earth." (Matthew 6:9, 10) What will life on earth be like when God's Kingdom is in full control?? The Bible gives us appealing previews. For example, it says of the subjects of God's Kingdom:

. "They will build houses and live in them, and they will plant vineyards and eat their fruitage. They will not build for someone else to inhabit, nor will they plant for others to eat. . . . The work of their hands my chosen ones will enjoy to the full." - ISAIAH 65:21, 22. 

. "They will sit, each one under his vine and under his fig tree, and no one will make them afraid, for the mouth of Jehovah of armies has spoken." -MICAH 4:4.

That sure hope can buoy us up during our trials. At the same time, Bible principles can help us to live meaningful and satisfying lives even now as Joe Martin, and many other have discovered. Indeed, our Creator, Jehovah God, gives us this guarantee: "The one listening to me will dwell in security and be undisturbed by the dread of calamity." (Proverbs 1:33) May those words prove to be true your life!

Next time: Hope for the Homeless and the Poor -PRINCIPLES THAT CAN IMPROVE ECONOMIC SECURITY

From the jw.org publications

Hope for the Homeless and the Poor - WHEN HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY WILL BE NO MORE

 Jeremiah, an ancient servant of God, live through a time of great distress. A cruel enemy invaded his homeland and took many of his people into exile and slavery. (Lamentations 1:3) Although spared, Jeremiah lost virtually everything he owned. In grief, he prayed: "Remember my affliction and my homeless state." - LAMENTATIONS 3:19. 

Despite his sufferings, Jeremiah did not cave in to despair. Why? For one thing, he was a student of the Scriptures, which tell of a time when poverty and suffering will cease to exist and will be replace by true peace and security. - PSALM 37:10, 11.

Those conditions will come about, not by human efforts, but by means of a perfect government called God's Kingdom. (Daniel 7:13, 14) The king of that Kingdom is none other than Jesus Christ, who displayed great compassion for the poor when he was on earth as a man. (Luke 7:22; 14:13) Under his rule, "the righteous will flourish, and peace will abound . . . He will rescue the poor who cry for help, also the lowly one whoever has no helper. From oppression and from violence he will rescue them." - PSALM 72:7, 12, 14. 

Next time: WHEN HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY WILL BE NO MORE

From the jw.org publications

HE FOUND LIFE'S PUROSE- Conclusion

At last, Martin began receiving satisfying answers to his questions. As a result, his depression lifted and he experienced the joy Jesus spoke about when he said: "Happy are those who are conscious of their spiritual need." - MATTHEW 5:3.

Martin's new outlook on life soon became apparent as he applied the same Bible principles that helped Joe, mentioned earlier, to take control of his life. Martin took more interest in his appearance, and with the help of the Witnesses, he found a job and a place to live. "Previously, I was known as the homeless man in the square," he said, "but now local people were amaze at the changes I was making." 

Later, Martin returned to Argentina, where was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Now he treasures the privilege of helping other spiritually hungry ones to find the answers to life's big questions.

Next time: Hope for the Homeless and the Poor - WHEN HOMELESSNESS AND POVERTY WILL BE NO MORE

From the jw.org publications

Hope for the Homeless and the Poor - HE FOUND LIFE'S PURPOSE

 Martin began to search for the meaning of life when he was 20 years old. "I investigated religions and philosophies and took drugs," he said, "hoping to fill the emptiness I felt within, but to no avail." He lived in California, U.S.A. for a while and then went to Hawaii. "I thought I had found paradise," he recalled. But beautiful scenery did not fill the void. "I became so overwhelmed with depression," he recalls, "that I even contemplated suicide." It was at that point in his life that we wept controllably and begged God, "If you exist, please help me to find you."

Martin remembered that earlier he had seen a sign that read Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses." He decided to go there to attend a Christian meeting. "I walked in with long and a beard, I had the clothes I had been wearing for months," he said. Nevertheless, I warmly welcomed." Martin accepted a Bible study and regularly walked from his "home" on the beach to the town square to have his Bible study there.  

Next time: HE FOUND LIFE'S PURPOSE

From the jw.org publications

THE BIBLE CHANGED HIS LIFE -Conclusion

 Having taken to heart the Bible's advice that we should do what we can to care for our own material needs, Joe began to look for work." (1 Thessalonians 4:11, 12) "There is nothing better for a man then to eat and drink and find enjoyment in hard work," says Ecclesiastes 2:24. That joy is also a result of self-respect, for honest work dignifies us. And it enables us to assist the needy. EPHESIANS 4:28. 

Seeing Joe's sincerity, "the congregation embraced him," said Cindi, and "some helped him to apply for suitable housing and other things for which he was eligible." Joe continued to make progress and in time was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Now he can speak from personal experience when he encourages others to acquire wisdom from God, as found in the Bible. - PROVERBS 3:13, 14. 

Next time: Hope for the Homeless and the Poor - HE FOUND LIFE'S PURPOSE

From the jw.org publications