Have you ever marveled at the ingenuity of a craftsman who makes beautiful things that work well? That is an impressive type of wisdom. (Exodus 31:1-3) Jehovah himself is the source of and the ultimate possessor of such wisdom. King David said of Jehovah: "I shall laud you because in a fear-inspiring way I am wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, as my soul is very well aware." (Psalm 139:14) Indeed, the more we learn about the human body, the more we find ourselves awed by Jehovah's wisdom.
To illustrate: You started as a single cell-an egg cell from your mother, fertilized by a sperm from your father. Soon, that cell started to divide. You, the end product, are made of some 100 trillion cells. They are tiny. About 10,000 average-sized cells would fit on the head of a pin. Yet, each one is a creation of mind-boggling complexity. the cell is far more intricate than any man-made machine or factory. Scientists say that a cell is like a walled city-one with controlled entrances and exits, a transportation system, a communications network, power plants, production plants, waste disposal and recycling facilities, defense agencies, and even a sort of central government in its nucleus. Furthermore, the cell can make a complete replica of itself within just a few hours!
Not all cells are the same, of course. As the cells of an embryo continue to divide, they assume very different functions. Some will be nerve cells; others bone, muscle, blood, or eye cells. All such differentiation is programmed into the cell's "library" of genetic blueprints, the DNA. Interestingly, David was inspired to say to Jehovah: "YOur eyes saw even the embryo of me, and in your book all its parts were down in writing." -Psalm 139:16.
Next time: Conclusion of Evidences Of Divine Wisdom
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.20.2008
8.19.2008
Conclusion of What Is Divine Wisdom?
Wisdom brings knowledge, discernment and understanding together and put them to work. In fact, some of the original Bible words translated "wisdom" literally mean "effectual working" or "practical wisdom." So Jehovah's wisdom is not merely theoretical. It is practical, and it works. Drawing upon his breadth of knowledge and his depth of understanding, Jehovah always makes the best decisions possible, carrying them out by means of the best course of action conceivable. That is true wisdom! Jehovah demonstrates the truth of Jesus' statement: "Wisdom is proved righteous by its works." (Matthew 11:19) Jehovah's works throughout the universe give powerful testimony to his wisdom.
Next time: Evidences Of Divine Wisdom
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
Next time: Evidences Of Divine Wisdom
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.18.2008
What Is Divine Wisdom?
Wisdom is not the same as knowledge. Computers can store enormous amounts of knowledge, but it is hard to imagine anyone calling such machines wise. Nonetheless, knowledge and wisdom are related. (Proverbs 10:14) For instance, if you needed wise counsel on treating a serious health problem, would you consult someone with little or no knowledge of medicine? Hardly! So accurate knowledge is essential to true wisdom.
Jehovah has a boundless store of knowledge. As the "King of eternity," he alone has been alive forever. (Revelation 15:3) And during all those untold ages,he has been aware of everything. The Bible says: "There is not a creation that is not manifest to his sight, but all things are naked and openly exposed to the eyes of him with whom we have an accounting." (Hebrews 4:13; Proverbs 15:3) As the Creator, Jehovah has full understanding of what he has made, and he has observed all human activity from the start. He examines each human heart, missing nothing. (1 Chronicles 28:9) Having created us as free moral agents, he is pleased when he sees that we are making countless expressions at once! (Psalm 65:2)And needless to say, Jehovah has a perfect memory.
Jehovah has more than knowledge. He also sees how facts interrelate and discerns the overall picture that is created by myriad details. He evaluates and judges, distinguishing between good and bad, important and trivial. Moreover, he looks beyond the surface and peers right into the heart. (1 Samuel 16:7) Thus, Jehovah has understanding and discernment, qualities htat are superior to knowledge. But wisdom is of a still higher order.
Next time: Continue with What Is Divine Wisdom?
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
Jehovah has a boundless store of knowledge. As the "King of eternity," he alone has been alive forever. (Revelation 15:3) And during all those untold ages,he has been aware of everything. The Bible says: "There is not a creation that is not manifest to his sight, but all things are naked and openly exposed to the eyes of him with whom we have an accounting." (Hebrews 4:13; Proverbs 15:3) As the Creator, Jehovah has full understanding of what he has made, and he has observed all human activity from the start. He examines each human heart, missing nothing. (1 Chronicles 28:9) Having created us as free moral agents, he is pleased when he sees that we are making countless expressions at once! (Psalm 65:2)And needless to say, Jehovah has a perfect memory.
Jehovah has more than knowledge. He also sees how facts interrelate and discerns the overall picture that is created by myriad details. He evaluates and judges, distinguishing between good and bad, important and trivial. Moreover, he looks beyond the surface and peers right into the heart. (1 Samuel 16:7) Thus, Jehovah has understanding and discernment, qualities htat are superior to knowledge. But wisdom is of a still higher order.
Next time: Continue with What Is Divine Wisdom?
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.17.2008
"O The Depth Of God's. . . Wisdom!"
RUINED! Mankind, the crowning glory of the sixth creative day, suddenly plummeted from the heights to the depths. Jehovah had pronounced "everything he had made," including humankind, "very good." (Genesis 1:31) But at the start of the seventh day, Adam and Eve chose to follow Satan into rebellion. They plunged into sin, imperfection and death.
It might have appeared that Jehovah's purpose for the seventh day had been thrown hopelessly off track. that day, like the sixth that preceded it, was to be thousands of years long. Jehovah had pronounce it sacred, and it would ultimately see the whole earth made into a paradise filled with a perfect family of mankind. (Genesis 1:28; 2:3) But after the catastrophic rebellion, how could such a thing ever come about? What would God do? Here was a dramatic test of Jehovah's wisdom-perhaps that ultimate test.
Jehovah responded immediately. He pronounced sentence on the rebels in Eden, and at the same time, he provided a glimpse of something wonderous: his purpose to remedy the ills they had just set in motion. (Genesis 3:15) Jehovah's farsighted purpose extends from Eden through all the thousands of years of human history and onward, far into the future. It is elegantly simple yet so profound that a Bible reader could spend a rewarding lifetime in studying and contemplating it. Furthermore, Jehovah's purpose is absolutely sure of success. It will put an end to all wickedness, sin and death. It will bring faithful mankind to perfection. all of this will come about before the seventh day ends, so that, despite everything, Jehovah will have fulfilled his purpose for the earth and mankind right on schedule!
Such wisdom inspires awe, does it not? The apostle Paul was move to write: "O the depths of God's ...wisdom!" (Romans 11:33) As we undertake a study of various aspects of this divine quality, humility should move us to keep a vital truth in mind-that, at best we can only scratch the surface of Jehovah's vast wisdom. (Job 26:14) First, let us define this awe-inspiring quality.
Next time: What Is Divine Wisdom?
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
It might have appeared that Jehovah's purpose for the seventh day had been thrown hopelessly off track. that day, like the sixth that preceded it, was to be thousands of years long. Jehovah had pronounce it sacred, and it would ultimately see the whole earth made into a paradise filled with a perfect family of mankind. (Genesis 1:28; 2:3) But after the catastrophic rebellion, how could such a thing ever come about? What would God do? Here was a dramatic test of Jehovah's wisdom-perhaps that ultimate test.
Jehovah responded immediately. He pronounced sentence on the rebels in Eden, and at the same time, he provided a glimpse of something wonderous: his purpose to remedy the ills they had just set in motion. (Genesis 3:15) Jehovah's farsighted purpose extends from Eden through all the thousands of years of human history and onward, far into the future. It is elegantly simple yet so profound that a Bible reader could spend a rewarding lifetime in studying and contemplating it. Furthermore, Jehovah's purpose is absolutely sure of success. It will put an end to all wickedness, sin and death. It will bring faithful mankind to perfection. all of this will come about before the seventh day ends, so that, despite everything, Jehovah will have fulfilled his purpose for the earth and mankind right on schedule!
Such wisdom inspires awe, does it not? The apostle Paul was move to write: "O the depths of God's ...wisdom!" (Romans 11:33) As we undertake a study of various aspects of this divine quality, humility should move us to keep a vital truth in mind-that, at best we can only scratch the surface of Jehovah's vast wisdom. (Job 26:14) First, let us define this awe-inspiring quality.
Next time: What Is Divine Wisdom?
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.16.2008
Conlcusion Of Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"
Elders administer divine justice in other ways as well. After foretelling that elders would serve "for justice itself," Isaiah continued: "Each one must prove to be like a hiding place from the wind and a place of concealment from the rainstorm, like streams of water in a waterless country, like the shadow of a heavy crag in an exhausted land." (Isaiah 32:2) Elders, then, strive to be sources of comfort and refreshment to their fellow worshipers.
Today, with all the problems that tend to dishearten, many need encouragement. Elders, what can you do to help "depressed souls?" (1 Thessalonians 5:14) Listen to them with emphathy. (James 1:19) They may need to share the "anxious care" in their heart with someone they trust. (Proverbs 12:25) Reassure them that they are wanted, valued and loved-yes, by Jehovah and also by their brothers and sisters. ( 1 Peter 1:22; 5:6, 7) In addition, you can pray with and for such ones. Hearing an elder say a heartfelt prayer in their behalf can be most comforting. (James 5:14, 15) Your loving efforts to help depressed ones will not go unnoticed by the God of justice.
Truly, we draw ever closer to Jehovah by imitating his justice! When we uphold his righteous standards, when we share the lifesaving news with others, and when we choose to focus on the good in others rather than looking for their faults, we are displaying godly justice. Elders, when you protect the cleanness of the congregation, when you offer upbuilding Scriptural counsel, when you make impartial decisions and when you encourage downhearted ones, you are reflecting godly justice. How it must delight Jehovah's heart to look down from the heavens and see his people trying their best to "exercise justice" in walking with their God!
Next time:"O The Depths Of God's ...Wisdom!"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
Today, with all the problems that tend to dishearten, many need encouragement. Elders, what can you do to help "depressed souls?" (1 Thessalonians 5:14) Listen to them with emphathy. (James 1:19) They may need to share the "anxious care" in their heart with someone they trust. (Proverbs 12:25) Reassure them that they are wanted, valued and loved-yes, by Jehovah and also by their brothers and sisters. ( 1 Peter 1:22; 5:6, 7) In addition, you can pray with and for such ones. Hearing an elder say a heartfelt prayer in their behalf can be most comforting. (James 5:14, 15) Your loving efforts to help depressed ones will not go unnoticed by the God of justice.
Truly, we draw ever closer to Jehovah by imitating his justice! When we uphold his righteous standards, when we share the lifesaving news with others, and when we choose to focus on the good in others rather than looking for their faults, we are displaying godly justice. Elders, when you protect the cleanness of the congregation, when you offer upbuilding Scriptural counsel, when you make impartial decisions and when you encourage downhearted ones, you are reflecting godly justice. How it must delight Jehovah's heart to look down from the heavens and see his people trying their best to "exercise justice" in walking with their God!
Next time:"O The Depths Of God's ...Wisdom!"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.15.2008
Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"
All of us have a responsibility to exercise justice, but elders in the Christian congregation especially have a responsibility in this regard. Notice the prophetic description of "princes," or elders, recorded by Isaiah: "Look! a king will reign for righteousness itself; and as respects princes, they will rule as princes for justice itself." (Isaiah 32:1) Yes, Jehovah expects elders to serve in the intersts of justice. How can they do this?
These spiritually qualified men are well aware that justice, or righteousness, requires that the congregation be kept clean. At times, elders are obligated to judge cases of serious wrongdoing. When doing so, they remember that divine justice seeks to extend mercy if at all possible. They thus try to lead the sinner to repentance. But what if the sinner fails to manifest genuine repentance despite such efforts to help him? In perfect justice, Jehovah's Word directs that a firm step be taken: "Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." that means expelling him from the congregation. ( 1 Corinthians 5:11-13; 2 John 9-11) It saddens the elders to have to take such action, but they recognize that it is necessary in order to protect the moral and spiritual cleanness of the congregation. Even then, they hope that someday the sinner. will come to his senses and return to the congregation. - Luke 15:17, 18.
Serving in the interests of justice also involves offering Bible-based counsel when needed. Of course, elders do not look for flaws in others. Nor do they seize every opportunity to offer correction. But a fellow believer may take "some false step before he is aware of it." Remembering that divine justice is neiter cruel nor unfeeling will move elders to "try to readjust such a man in the spirit of mildness." (Galatians 6:1) Hence, elders would not scold an erring one or employ harsh words. Instead, counsel that is given lovingly encourages the one receiving it. Even when giving pointed reproof-straightforwardly outlining the consequences of an unwise course-elder keep in mind that a fellow believer who has erred is a sheep in Jehovah's flock. (Luke 15:7) When counsel or reproof is clearly motivated by and give in love, it is more likely to readjust the erring one.
Elders are often called upon to make decisions that affect their fellow believers. For example, elders periodically meet to consider whether other brothers in the congregation qualify to be recommended as elders of ministerial servants. The elders know the importance of being impartial. They let God's requirements for such appointments guide them in making decisions, not relying on mere personal feelings. they thus act "without prejudgment, doing nothing according to ta biased leaning." - Timothy 5:21.
Next time: Conclusion of Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
These spiritually qualified men are well aware that justice, or righteousness, requires that the congregation be kept clean. At times, elders are obligated to judge cases of serious wrongdoing. When doing so, they remember that divine justice seeks to extend mercy if at all possible. They thus try to lead the sinner to repentance. But what if the sinner fails to manifest genuine repentance despite such efforts to help him? In perfect justice, Jehovah's Word directs that a firm step be taken: "Remove the wicked man from among yourselves." that means expelling him from the congregation. ( 1 Corinthians 5:11-13; 2 John 9-11) It saddens the elders to have to take such action, but they recognize that it is necessary in order to protect the moral and spiritual cleanness of the congregation. Even then, they hope that someday the sinner. will come to his senses and return to the congregation. - Luke 15:17, 18.
Serving in the interests of justice also involves offering Bible-based counsel when needed. Of course, elders do not look for flaws in others. Nor do they seize every opportunity to offer correction. But a fellow believer may take "some false step before he is aware of it." Remembering that divine justice is neiter cruel nor unfeeling will move elders to "try to readjust such a man in the spirit of mildness." (Galatians 6:1) Hence, elders would not scold an erring one or employ harsh words. Instead, counsel that is given lovingly encourages the one receiving it. Even when giving pointed reproof-straightforwardly outlining the consequences of an unwise course-elder keep in mind that a fellow believer who has erred is a sheep in Jehovah's flock. (Luke 15:7) When counsel or reproof is clearly motivated by and give in love, it is more likely to readjust the erring one.
Elders are often called upon to make decisions that affect their fellow believers. For example, elders periodically meet to consider whether other brothers in the congregation qualify to be recommended as elders of ministerial servants. The elders know the importance of being impartial. They let God's requirements for such appointments guide them in making decisions, not relying on mere personal feelings. they thus act "without prejudgment, doing nothing according to ta biased leaning." - Timothy 5:21.
Next time: Conclusion of Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.14.2008
How We Treat Others
We can also exercise justice by treating others the way Jehovah treats us. It is all too easy to sit in judgment of others,criticizing their faults and questioning their motives. But who of us would want Jehovah to scrutinize our motives and shortcomings in a merciless manner? That is not how Jehovah deals with us. The psalmist observed: "If errors were what you watch, O Jah, O Jehovah, who could stand? (Psalm 130:3) Are we not grateful that our just and merciful God chooses not to dwell on our failings? (Psalm 103:8-10) How, then, should we treat others?
If we appreciate the merciful nature of God's justice, we will not be quick to judge others in matters that really do not concern us or that are of lesser importance. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned: "Stop judging that you may not be judged." (Matthew 7:1) According to Luke's account, Jesus added: "Stop condemning, and you will by no means be condemned." (Luke 6:37) Jesus showed his awareness that imperfect humans have a tendency to be judgmental. Any of his listeners who were in the habit of harshly judging others were to stop it.
Why must we "stop judging" others? For one thing, our authority is limited. The disciple James reminds us: "One there is that is lawgiver and judge" -Jehovah. So James pointedly asks: "Who are you to be judging your neighbor?" (James 4:12; Romans 14:1-4) In addition, our sinful nature can so easily render our judgments unfair. Many attitudes and motives-including prejudice, injured pride, jealousy and self-righteousness-can distort the way we see fellow humans. We have further limitations, and reflecting on these should restrain us from being quick to find fault with others. We cannot read hearts; nor can we know all the personal circumstances of others. Who, then, are we to impute wrong motives to fellow believers or to criticize their efforts in God's service? How much better it is to imitate Jehovah by looking for the good in our brothers and sisters rather than focusing on their failings!
What about our family members? Sadly,in today's world some of the harshest judgments are handed down in what should be a haven of peace-the home. It is not uncommon to hear about abusive husbands, wives or parents who "sentence" their family members to a barrage of verbal or physical abuse. But vicious words, bitter scarcasm and abusive treatment have no place among God's worshipers. (Ephesians 4:29, 31; 5:33; 6:4) Jesus' counsel to "stop judging" and "stop condemning" does not cease to apply when we are at home. Recall that exercising justice involves treating others the way Jehovah treats us. And our God is never harsh or cruel in dealing with us. Rather, he "is very tender in affection" toward those who love him. (James 5:11) What a marvelous example for us to imitate!
Next time:Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
If we appreciate the merciful nature of God's justice, we will not be quick to judge others in matters that really do not concern us or that are of lesser importance. In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus warned: "Stop judging that you may not be judged." (Matthew 7:1) According to Luke's account, Jesus added: "Stop condemning, and you will by no means be condemned." (Luke 6:37) Jesus showed his awareness that imperfect humans have a tendency to be judgmental. Any of his listeners who were in the habit of harshly judging others were to stop it.
Why must we "stop judging" others? For one thing, our authority is limited. The disciple James reminds us: "One there is that is lawgiver and judge" -Jehovah. So James pointedly asks: "Who are you to be judging your neighbor?" (James 4:12; Romans 14:1-4) In addition, our sinful nature can so easily render our judgments unfair. Many attitudes and motives-including prejudice, injured pride, jealousy and self-righteousness-can distort the way we see fellow humans. We have further limitations, and reflecting on these should restrain us from being quick to find fault with others. We cannot read hearts; nor can we know all the personal circumstances of others. Who, then, are we to impute wrong motives to fellow believers or to criticize their efforts in God's service? How much better it is to imitate Jehovah by looking for the good in our brothers and sisters rather than focusing on their failings!
What about our family members? Sadly,in today's world some of the harshest judgments are handed down in what should be a haven of peace-the home. It is not uncommon to hear about abusive husbands, wives or parents who "sentence" their family members to a barrage of verbal or physical abuse. But vicious words, bitter scarcasm and abusive treatment have no place among God's worshipers. (Ephesians 4:29, 31; 5:33; 6:4) Jesus' counsel to "stop judging" and "stop condemning" does not cease to apply when we are at home. Recall that exercising justice involves treating others the way Jehovah treats us. And our God is never harsh or cruel in dealing with us. Rather, he "is very tender in affection" toward those who love him. (James 5:11) What a marvelous example for us to imitate!
Next time:Elders Serving "For Justice Itself"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.13.2008
The Good News And Divine Justice
We can exercise justice-in fact, imitate divine justice-by having a full share in preaching the good news of God's Kingdom to others. What connection is there between Jehovah's justice and the good news?
Jehovah will not bring an end to this wicked system without first having the warning sounded. In his prophecy about what would take place during the time of the end, Jesus said: "In all the nations the good news has to be preached first." (Mark 13:10; Matthew 24:3) The use of the word "first" implies that other events will follow the worldwide preaching work. Those events include the foretold great tribulation, which will mean destruction for the wicked and will pave the way for a righteous new world. (Matthew 24:14, 21, 22) Certainly, no one can rightly charge Jehovah with being unjust toward the wicked. By having the warning sounded, he is giving such ones ample opportunity to change their ways and therefore escape destruction. -Jonah 3:1-10.
How does our preaching the good news reflect godly justice? First of all, it is only right that we do what we can to help others gain salvation. Consider again the illustration of being rescued from a sinking ship. Safe in a lifeboat, you would surely want to help others who are still in the water. Similarly, we have an obligation toward those who are still struggling in the "waters" of this wicked world. True, many reject our message. But as long as Jehovah continues to be patient, we have the responsibility to give them the opportunity to "attain to repentance" and thus come in line for salvation. -2 Peter 3:9.
By preaching the good news to all whom we meet, we display justice in another important way: We show impartiality,. Recall that "God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him." (Acts 10:34, 35) If we are to imitate His justice, we must not prejudge people. Instead, we should share the good news with others regardless of their race, social status, or financial standing. We thus give all who will listen an opportunity to hear and respond to the good news. -Roman 10:11-13.
Next time: How We Treat Others
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
Jehovah will not bring an end to this wicked system without first having the warning sounded. In his prophecy about what would take place during the time of the end, Jesus said: "In all the nations the good news has to be preached first." (Mark 13:10; Matthew 24:3) The use of the word "first" implies that other events will follow the worldwide preaching work. Those events include the foretold great tribulation, which will mean destruction for the wicked and will pave the way for a righteous new world. (Matthew 24:14, 21, 22) Certainly, no one can rightly charge Jehovah with being unjust toward the wicked. By having the warning sounded, he is giving such ones ample opportunity to change their ways and therefore escape destruction. -Jonah 3:1-10.
How does our preaching the good news reflect godly justice? First of all, it is only right that we do what we can to help others gain salvation. Consider again the illustration of being rescued from a sinking ship. Safe in a lifeboat, you would surely want to help others who are still in the water. Similarly, we have an obligation toward those who are still struggling in the "waters" of this wicked world. True, many reject our message. But as long as Jehovah continues to be patient, we have the responsibility to give them the opportunity to "attain to repentance" and thus come in line for salvation. -2 Peter 3:9.
By preaching the good news to all whom we meet, we display justice in another important way: We show impartiality,. Recall that "God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him." (Acts 10:34, 35) If we are to imitate His justice, we must not prejudge people. Instead, we should share the good news with others regardless of their race, social status, or financial standing. We thus give all who will listen an opportunity to hear and respond to the good news. -Roman 10:11-13.
Next time: How We Treat Others
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.12.2008
Pursuing "True Righteousness"
Jehovah expects us to live by his standards of right and wrong. Since his standards are just and righteous, we are pursuing justice and righteousness when we conform to them. "Learn to do good; search for justice," says Isaiah 1:17. God's Word exhorts us to "seek righteousness." (Zephaniah 2:3) It also urges us to "put on the new personality which was created according to God's will in true righteousness." (Ephesians 4:24) True righteousness-true justice-shuns violence, uncleanness and immorality, for these violate what is holy. -Psalm 11:5; Ephesians 5:3-5.
Is it a burden for us to conform to Jehovah's righteous standards? No. A heart that is drawn to Jehovah does not chafe at his requirements. Because we love our God and all that he stands for, we want to live in a way that pleases him. (Psalm 11:7) If we are truly to imitate divine justice, or righteousness, we must come to love what Jehovah loves and hate what he hates. -Psalm 97:10.
It is not easy for imperfect humans to pursue righteousness. We must strip off the old personality with its sinful practices and put on the new one. The Bible says that the new personality is "being made new" through accurate knowledge. (Colossians 36:9, 10) The words "being made new" indicate that putting on the new personality is a continuing process, one that requires diligent effort. No matter how hard we try to do what is right, there are tims when our sinful nature causes us to stumble in thought, word or deed. -Romans 7:14-20; James 3:2.
How should we view setbacks in our efforts to pursue righteousness? Of course, we would not want to minimize the seriousness of sin. At the same time, we must never give up, feeling that our shortcomings make us unfit to serve Jehovah. Our gracious God has made provision to restore sincerely repentant ones to his favor. Consider the reassuring words of the apostle John: "I am writing you these things that you many not commit a sin." But then he realistically added: "Yet, if anyone does commit a sin [because of inherited imperfection], we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ." (1 John 2:1) Yes, Jehovah has provided Jesus' ransom sacrifice so that we might acceptably serve Him in spite of our sinful nature. Does that not move us to want to do our best to please Jehovah?
Next time: The Good News And Divine Justice
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
Is it a burden for us to conform to Jehovah's righteous standards? No. A heart that is drawn to Jehovah does not chafe at his requirements. Because we love our God and all that he stands for, we want to live in a way that pleases him. (Psalm 11:7) If we are truly to imitate divine justice, or righteousness, we must come to love what Jehovah loves and hate what he hates. -Psalm 97:10.
It is not easy for imperfect humans to pursue righteousness. We must strip off the old personality with its sinful practices and put on the new one. The Bible says that the new personality is "being made new" through accurate knowledge. (Colossians 36:9, 10) The words "being made new" indicate that putting on the new personality is a continuing process, one that requires diligent effort. No matter how hard we try to do what is right, there are tims when our sinful nature causes us to stumble in thought, word or deed. -Romans 7:14-20; James 3:2.
How should we view setbacks in our efforts to pursue righteousness? Of course, we would not want to minimize the seriousness of sin. At the same time, we must never give up, feeling that our shortcomings make us unfit to serve Jehovah. Our gracious God has made provision to restore sincerely repentant ones to his favor. Consider the reassuring words of the apostle John: "I am writing you these things that you many not commit a sin." But then he realistically added: "Yet, if anyone does commit a sin [because of inherited imperfection], we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ." (1 John 2:1) Yes, Jehovah has provided Jesus' ransom sacrifice so that we might acceptably serve Him in spite of our sinful nature. Does that not move us to want to do our best to please Jehovah?
Next time: The Good News And Divine Justice
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
8.11.2008
"Exercise Justice" In Walking With God
Imagine being trapped on a sinking ship. Just when you think that there is no hope, a rescuer arrives and pulls you to safety. How relieved you feel as your rescuer takes you away from the danger and says: "You are safe now!" Would you not feel indebted to that person? In a very real sense, you would owe him your life.
In some respects, this illustrates what Jehovah has done for us. Surely we are indebted to him. Afer all, he has provided the ransom, making it possible for us to be rescued from the clutches of sin and death. We feel safe knowing that as long as we exercise faith in that precious sacrifice, our sins are forgiven, and our eternal future is secure. (1 John 1:7; 4:9) As we saw in Chapter 14, the ransom is a supreme expression of Jehovah's love and justice. How should we respond?
It is fitting to consider what our loving Rescuer himself asks back from us. Jehovah says by means of the prophet Micah: "He has told you, O earthling man, what is good. And what is Jehovah asking back but to exercise justice and to love kindness and to be modest in walking with your God?" (Micah 6:8) Notice that one of the things Jehovah asks back from us is that we "exercise justice." How can we do so?
Next time: Pursuing "True Righteousness"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
In some respects, this illustrates what Jehovah has done for us. Surely we are indebted to him. Afer all, he has provided the ransom, making it possible for us to be rescued from the clutches of sin and death. We feel safe knowing that as long as we exercise faith in that precious sacrifice, our sins are forgiven, and our eternal future is secure. (1 John 1:7; 4:9) As we saw in Chapter 14, the ransom is a supreme expression of Jehovah's love and justice. How should we respond?
It is fitting to consider what our loving Rescuer himself asks back from us. Jehovah says by means of the prophet Micah: "He has told you, O earthling man, what is good. And what is Jehovah asking back but to exercise justice and to love kindness and to be modest in walking with your God?" (Micah 6:8) Notice that one of the things Jehovah asks back from us is that we "exercise justice." How can we do so?
Next time: Pursuing "True Righteousness"
Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002
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