REMAIN CONFIDENT IN JEHOVAH TO THE END

 We can also learn a valuable lesson from the Jews who were not able to return to Jerusalem.  Some of them were likely limited in what they could do because of old age, serious illness, or family obligations.  Even so, they willingly supported the returnees by contributing materially. (Ezra 1:5, 6) It seems that some 19 years after the arrival of the first group of returnees in Jerusalem, those remaining in Babylon were still sending voluntary gifts to Jerusalem. - HEBREWS 6:10.

Even if we feel limited in what we can do in God's service, we can rest assured that Jehovah appreciates our sincere efforts to please Him. How do we know? In Zechariah's day, Jehovah asked his prophet to make a crown out of gold and the silver sent by the exiles in Babylon. (Zechariah 6:11) This "grand crown" would serve as a "reminder" of their generous contributions.  (Zechariah 6:14, ftns.) We can be confident that Jehovah will never forget our earnest efforts to serve him during uncertain times. - HEBREWS 6:10.

We will no doubt continue to face uncertainties in these last days, and conditions may even get worse in the future.  (2 Timothy 3:1, 13) However, we do not need to be consumed by anxiety.  Remember Jehovah's words to his people in Haggai's day: "I am with you . . .Do not be afraid." (Haggai 2:4, 5) We too can be sure that Jehovah will be with us as long as we do our best to carry out his will. By applying the lessons we have learned from the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah and the example of Ezra, we will maintain our confidence in Jehovah no matter what uncertainties we may experience in the future. 

Next time: Will Jehovah Answer My Prayers? 

From the jw.org publications