ENCOURAGE A NAZARITE-LIKE SPIRIT

 All who choose to worship Jehovah today need to be w illing to make sacrifices motivated by love. At times, doing so is not easy. How can we help one another to show such a attituded? By being encouraging with our words. (Job 16:5) Are there some in your congregation who are trying to simplify their life in order to have a greater share in theocratic activities? Do you know young ones who are bravely standing out different from others in school, even though it is difficult for them to do so? What about Bible students and fellow believers who may be struggling to remain faithful because of family opposition? Let us seize  every opportunity to speak reassuringly to such dear fellow worshippers, expressing our appreciation for their self-sacrificig spirit and courage. -PHILEMON 4,5,7.

Sometimes, we be able to offer practical help to fellow Christians who are in full-time service. (Proverbs 19:17; Hebrews 13:16) This was the sincere desire of a faithful elderly lady who lives in Sri Lanka. She received an increase in her pension and wanted to help two young pioneer sisters to continue in their ministry despite economic difficulties. So, she decided to contribute a specific amount each month toward their telephone expenses. What beautiful spirit that sister shows!

We can certainly learn much from the fine example set by  the volunteer Nazarites of old! However, this arrangement also reveals something about our heavenly Father, Jehovah. He is confident that we sincerely desire to please him and that we are willing to make sacrifices to live up to our dedication vow. He dignifies us by letting us express our love for him in a personal way.  (Proverbs 23:15, 16; Mark 10:28-30; 1 John 4:19) The Nazarite arrangement sows that Jehovah notices and treasures the sacrifices we make to serve him. May we, then, be determined to continue serving Jehovah, willingly offering him our very best.

Next time: Find Happiness While Waiting for Jehovah

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