Finding Peace During a Crisis - FINDING PEACE WHILE PERSECUTED

 When our work is banned or greatly restricted, we may receive instructions from the branch office and the elders.  These are meant to protect us, to make sure that we keep receiving spiritual food, and to help us continue preaching to the extent possible.  Do your best to obey the direction you receive, even if you do not fully understand  why it is being given.  (James 3:17)  Also, never reveal information about our brothers and sisters or about the congregation activities to those who are not entitled to it. ECCLESIASTES 3:7. 

One of the primary reasons why Satan wages war against God's people is that they "have the work of bearing witness concerning Jesus." (Revelation 12:17)  Do not let Satan and his world imitate you. Preaching and teaching despite opposition brings us joy and peace.   In the first century when the Jewish authorities commanded the apostles to stop preaching, those faithful men chose to obey God.  They kept preaching, and that work  made them happy.  (Acts 5:27-29, 41, 42) Of course, when our work is restricted, we must be discreet while preaching.  (Matthew 10:16) But if we do our best, we will have the peace that comes from pleasing Jehovah and from sharing a lifesaving message. 

Next time: Finding Peace During a Crisis - "THE GOD OF PEACE WILL WITH YOU" 

From the jw.org publications