WITCHCRAFT! What does that word bring to your mind? To many, it is the stuff of superstition and fantasy, not to be taken seriously. To them, witchcraft lives only in the realm of the imagination-old hags dressed in hooded cloaks who add bats' wings to a bubbling cauldron, turn people into frogs and soar through the night sky on broomsticks as they cackle maliciously.
To others, witchcraft is no laughing matter. Some investigators say that more than half the world's population believe that witches are real and can influence the lives of others. Millions believe that witchcraft is evil, dangerous, and to be greatly feared. For example, a book about African religion states: "Belief in the function and dangers of black magic, sorcery and witchcraft is deeply rooted in African life. . . . Witches and sorcerers are the most hated people in their community. Even to this day there are places and occasions when they are beaten to death by the rest of the people."
In Western lands, however, witchcraft has donned a new mask of respectability. Books, television and movies have done much to reduce the fear of witchcraft. Observes entertainment analyst David Davis:"Suddenly, witches are younger and cuter,definitely cuter. Hollywood is good at picking up on trends . . .By making the witches cuter and more huggable, they can appeal to a larger audience, including women and younger kids," Hollywood knows how to turn any trend into a paying proposition.
Some say that witchcraft has become one of the fastest growing spiritual movements in the United States. Throughout the developed world, an increasing number of people, inspired by feminist (developed by Satan's ideas to try to thwart God's ideas ) movements and disenchanted with mainstream religions, seek spiritual fulfillment in various forms of witchcraft. In fact, so numerous are the forms of witchcraft that people disagree even on the meaning of the word "witch." However, professed witches often identify with Wicca-defined in one dictionary as "a pagan nature religion having its roots in pre-Christian western Europe and undergoing a 20th-century revival." Consequently, many also refer to themselves as pagans or neopagans.
Throughout history, witches have been hated, persecuted, tortured,even slain. Little wonder that modern practitioners of witchcraft are eager to improve their image. In one survey, dozens of witches were asked what message they most wanted to express to the public. Their answer, summarized by researcher Margot Adler was: "We are not evil. We do not worship the Devil. We don't harm or seduce people. We are not dangerous. We are ordinary people like you. We have families, jobs, hopes and dreams. We are not a cult. We are not weird . . . You don't have to be afraid of us. . . .We are much more similar to you than you think."
increasingly, that message has been accepted. But does this mean that there is no reason to be concerned about the practice of witchcraft? Let us consider that question in the following article.
Next time: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WITCHCRAFT
Watchtower, 2000
Showing posts with label Beware of Satan's Machinations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Beware of Satan's Machinations. Show all posts
7.11.2011
6.09.2011
THE BIBLE -Cherished and Suppressed
The Tide of Secular Thinking
A popular belief is that we can make our way in life solely through reason and human cooperation. The Bible is treated as just one of many books about religious opinions and personal experiences, no as a book of facts and truth.
So how do people deal with the increasingly complex and troubling issues in life? They operate in a spiritual vacuum, with no solid moral and religious guidelines and direction. They have become likes ships without rudders, "tossed backward and forward and blown about by every breath of human teaching, . . .by the trickery and the craftiness of men." -Ephesians 4:14, The Twentieth Century New Testament.
We must ask, then, is the Bible just another religious book? Or is it truly God's Word, containing practical and essential information? (2 Timothy 3:16,, 17) Is the Bible worthy of our consideration? The following article will address these questions.
Next time: THE BIBLE - A Textbook for Living
Watchtower, 2000
A popular belief is that we can make our way in life solely through reason and human cooperation. The Bible is treated as just one of many books about religious opinions and personal experiences, no as a book of facts and truth.
So how do people deal with the increasingly complex and troubling issues in life? They operate in a spiritual vacuum, with no solid moral and religious guidelines and direction. They have become likes ships without rudders, "tossed backward and forward and blown about by every breath of human teaching, . . .by the trickery and the craftiness of men." -Ephesians 4:14, The Twentieth Century New Testament.
We must ask, then, is the Bible just another religious book? Or is it truly God's Word, containing practical and essential information? (2 Timothy 3:16,, 17) Is the Bible worthy of our consideration? The following article will address these questions.
Next time: THE BIBLE - A Textbook for Living
Watchtower, 2000
5.21.2011
SERVING WITH THE WATCHMAN
The Conclusion of A Nation of Witnesses
Those truly devoted to pure worship had to "put up a hard fight for the faith that was once for all time delivered to the holy ones." (Jude 3) Would the witness to pure worship and to Jehovah vanish from the earth? No. As the time approached for the destruction of the rebel Satan and all his works, it became evident that not everyone had surrendered to the apostle worship practiced in Christendom. In the latter part of the 19 -century, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania U.S.A., a group of sincere Bible students was organized and became the nucleus of God's modern-day witness class. These Christians drew attention to the Scriptural evidence that the conclusion of the present world system was at hand. True to Bible prophecy, this world's "conclusion" began in 1914 and was marked by the outbreak of the first world war. (Matthew 24:3, 7) There is strong evidence that Satan and his demonic hordes were cast out of heaven following that year. The trouble - filled 20th century has provided clear proof of Satans's activity and of a remarkable fulfillment of the sign of Jesus' royal presence in heavenly Kingdom power. -Matthew, chapters 24 and 25; Mark, chapter 13; Luke, chapter 21; Revelation, 12:10, 12.
In June 1918, Satan frantically tried to wipe out those Bible students, who by then were preaching in several countries. He also sought to destroy their legal corporation , the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. Responsible officers of the Society were imprisoned, falsely charged with sedition, as Jesus had been in the first century. (Luke 23:2) But in 1919, these officers were released, enabling them to continue their ministry. Later, they were fully exonerated.
Next time: A "Lookout" on the Watch
Watchtower, 2000
Those truly devoted to pure worship had to "put up a hard fight for the faith that was once for all time delivered to the holy ones." (Jude 3) Would the witness to pure worship and to Jehovah vanish from the earth? No. As the time approached for the destruction of the rebel Satan and all his works, it became evident that not everyone had surrendered to the apostle worship practiced in Christendom. In the latter part of the 19 -century, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania U.S.A., a group of sincere Bible students was organized and became the nucleus of God's modern-day witness class. These Christians drew attention to the Scriptural evidence that the conclusion of the present world system was at hand. True to Bible prophecy, this world's "conclusion" began in 1914 and was marked by the outbreak of the first world war. (Matthew 24:3, 7) There is strong evidence that Satan and his demonic hordes were cast out of heaven following that year. The trouble - filled 20th century has provided clear proof of Satans's activity and of a remarkable fulfillment of the sign of Jesus' royal presence in heavenly Kingdom power. -Matthew, chapters 24 and 25; Mark, chapter 13; Luke, chapter 21; Revelation, 12:10, 12.
In June 1918, Satan frantically tried to wipe out those Bible students, who by then were preaching in several countries. He also sought to destroy their legal corporation , the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. Responsible officers of the Society were imprisoned, falsely charged with sedition, as Jesus had been in the first century. (Luke 23:2) But in 1919, these officers were released, enabling them to continue their ministry. Later, they were fully exonerated.
Next time: A "Lookout" on the Watch
Watchtower, 2000
4.12.2011
MAKE YOUR LIFE SUCCESSFUL!
Conclusion of Avoid Envying Wrongdoers
Fortunately, Asaph did not stay in this state of despair for long. He quickly cam to realize that the seeming peace of the wicked was nothing but an illusion-and a temporary one at that! He exclaimed: "Surely on slippery ground is where you place them. You have made them fall to ruins. O how they have become an object of astonishment as in a moment! How they have reached their end, have been brought to their finish through sudden terrors!" (Verses 18, 19) Many of your peers are likewise "on slippery ground." Sooner or later their ungodly behavior will catch up with them, resulting perhaps in an unwanted pregnancy, a sexually transmitted disease, even imprisonment or death! Worse yet, they suffer alienation from God. -James 4:4.
A young Witness in Spain observed this truth firsthand. As a youth, she led a double life, being deeply involved with a group of godless youths. Before long, she fell in love with one of them-a drug addict. Though she abstained from using drugs herself, she purchased drugs for him. "I even helped him insert the needle," she admits. Fortunately, this sister was brought to her senses and restored to spiritual health. But how shocked she was to learn some time later that he drug using boyfriend had died of AIDS. Yes, just as the psalmist said, godless people are "on slippery ground." Some may die unexpectedly as a result of their loose life-style. As for the rest, unless they change their ways, they will in the near future face "the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with his powerful angels in a flaming fire, as he brings vengeance upon those who do not know God and those who do not obey the good news about our Lord Jesus." -2 Thessalonians 1:7, 8.
How foolish it is, then, to envy "those who do not know God"! Really, it is those who know Jehovah and who have the hope of living forever that are to be envied. A young brother in Japan came to that realization. As a youth, he too "wanted more freedom." He explains: "I thought I was missing out on something. Then I realized what my life would be without the truth. I could see myself living 70 or 80 years and then dying. But Jehovah hold out the hope of everlasting life! Realizing this helped me to appreciate what I really had." even so, remaining faithful when surrounded by people who do not follow God's Laws is anything but easy. What are some things you can do to resist those pressures?
Next time: Watch Your Associations!
Watchtower, 1999
Fortunately, Asaph did not stay in this state of despair for long. He quickly cam to realize that the seeming peace of the wicked was nothing but an illusion-and a temporary one at that! He exclaimed: "Surely on slippery ground is where you place them. You have made them fall to ruins. O how they have become an object of astonishment as in a moment! How they have reached their end, have been brought to their finish through sudden terrors!" (Verses 18, 19) Many of your peers are likewise "on slippery ground." Sooner or later their ungodly behavior will catch up with them, resulting perhaps in an unwanted pregnancy, a sexually transmitted disease, even imprisonment or death! Worse yet, they suffer alienation from God. -James 4:4.
A young Witness in Spain observed this truth firsthand. As a youth, she led a double life, being deeply involved with a group of godless youths. Before long, she fell in love with one of them-a drug addict. Though she abstained from using drugs herself, she purchased drugs for him. "I even helped him insert the needle," she admits. Fortunately, this sister was brought to her senses and restored to spiritual health. But how shocked she was to learn some time later that he drug using boyfriend had died of AIDS. Yes, just as the psalmist said, godless people are "on slippery ground." Some may die unexpectedly as a result of their loose life-style. As for the rest, unless they change their ways, they will in the near future face "the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with his powerful angels in a flaming fire, as he brings vengeance upon those who do not know God and those who do not obey the good news about our Lord Jesus." -2 Thessalonians 1:7, 8.
How foolish it is, then, to envy "those who do not know God"! Really, it is those who know Jehovah and who have the hope of living forever that are to be envied. A young brother in Japan came to that realization. As a youth, he too "wanted more freedom." He explains: "I thought I was missing out on something. Then I realized what my life would be without the truth. I could see myself living 70 or 80 years and then dying. But Jehovah hold out the hope of everlasting life! Realizing this helped me to appreciate what I really had." even so, remaining faithful when surrounded by people who do not follow God's Laws is anything but easy. What are some things you can do to resist those pressures?
Next time: Watch Your Associations!
Watchtower, 1999
4.10.2011
YOUTHS-TRAIN YOUR PERCEPTIVE POWERS!
Being Taught 'From Youth On'
Avoiding Satan's snares will require constant vigilance on your part-and sometimes, great courage. Why, at times you may find yourself at odds, not simply with your peers, but with the whole world. the psalmist David prayed: 'You are my hope, O Sovereign Lord, my confidence from my youth. O God, you have taught me from my youth on, and until now I keep telling about your wonderful works." (Psalm 71:5, 17) David is known for his courage. But when did he develop it? As a youth! Even before his famed confrontation with Goliath, David had shown extraordinary courage in protecting his father's flocks-killing both a lion and a bear. (1 Samuel 17:34-37) However, David gave Jehovah full credit for whatever bravery he displayed, calling him "my confidence from my youth." David's ability to lean on Jehovah made him equal to any trial that he faced. You too will find that if you lean upon Jehovah, he will give you the courage and strength to conquer the word.' -1John 5:4.
Thousands of young ones lie you have taken a courageous stand and now serve as baptized publishers of the good news. We thank God for the faith and courage of you young ones! Remain determined to escape the world's corruption. (2 Peter 1:4) Keep using your Bible-trained perceptive powers. Doing so will ultimately make your salvation sure. Indeed, as our final article will show, you will make your life successful.
Next time: MAKE YOUR LIFE SUCCESSFUL!
Watchtower, 1999
Avoiding Satan's snares will require constant vigilance on your part-and sometimes, great courage. Why, at times you may find yourself at odds, not simply with your peers, but with the whole world. the psalmist David prayed: 'You are my hope, O Sovereign Lord, my confidence from my youth. O God, you have taught me from my youth on, and until now I keep telling about your wonderful works." (Psalm 71:5, 17) David is known for his courage. But when did he develop it? As a youth! Even before his famed confrontation with Goliath, David had shown extraordinary courage in protecting his father's flocks-killing both a lion and a bear. (1 Samuel 17:34-37) However, David gave Jehovah full credit for whatever bravery he displayed, calling him "my confidence from my youth." David's ability to lean on Jehovah made him equal to any trial that he faced. You too will find that if you lean upon Jehovah, he will give you the courage and strength to conquer the word.' -1John 5:4.
Thousands of young ones lie you have taken a courageous stand and now serve as baptized publishers of the good news. We thank God for the faith and courage of you young ones! Remain determined to escape the world's corruption. (2 Peter 1:4) Keep using your Bible-trained perceptive powers. Doing so will ultimately make your salvation sure. Indeed, as our final article will show, you will make your life successful.
Next time: MAKE YOUR LIFE SUCCESSFUL!
Watchtower, 1999
4.07.2011
YOUTHS-TRAIN YOUR PERCEPTIVE POWERS!
"KEEP strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons, buying out the opportune time for yourselves, because the days are wicked." (Ephesians 5:15, 16) Since the apostle Paul penned those words two thousand years ago, 'wicked men and impostors have advanced from bad to worse.' We live in "critical times hard to deal with," or as another translation puts it times that are "full of danger." -2 Timothy 3:1-5, 13, Phillips.
You can avoid being harmed by the dangers that may lurk in your path, however, by developing "shrewdness, . . .knowledge and thinking ability." (Proverbs 1:4) Says Proverbs 2:10-12: "When wisdom enters into your heart and knowledge itself becomes pleasant to your very soul, thinking ability itself will keep guard over you, discernment itself will safeguard you, to deliver you from the bad way, from the man speaking perverse things." But just how can you develop those abilities? Says Hebrews 5:14: "Solid food belongs to mature people, to those who through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong." As with any skill, mastering the use of one's perceptive powers requires training. The Greek word Paul used literally means 'having been trained like a gymnast! How do you begin such training?
Next time: Training Your Perceptive Powers
Watchtower, 1999
You can avoid being harmed by the dangers that may lurk in your path, however, by developing "shrewdness, . . .knowledge and thinking ability." (Proverbs 1:4) Says Proverbs 2:10-12: "When wisdom enters into your heart and knowledge itself becomes pleasant to your very soul, thinking ability itself will keep guard over you, discernment itself will safeguard you, to deliver you from the bad way, from the man speaking perverse things." But just how can you develop those abilities? Says Hebrews 5:14: "Solid food belongs to mature people, to those who through use have their perceptive powers trained to distinguish both right and wrong." As with any skill, mastering the use of one's perceptive powers requires training. The Greek word Paul used literally means 'having been trained like a gymnast! How do you begin such training?
Next time: Training Your Perceptive Powers
Watchtower, 1999
4.06.2011
YOUTHS-RESIST THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD
Conclusion of Showing "A Different Spirit"
Avoiding harmful recreation will not condemn you to a joyless life. We worship a "happy God," who wants you to enjoy your youth! (1 Timothy 1:1; Ecclesiastes 11:9) But the Bible warns: "He that is loving merriment [ "entertainment," lamsa] will be an individual in want." (Proverbs 21:17) Yes, if you make recreation the most important thing in your life, you will suffer spiritual want. So follow Bible principles in your choice of recreation. There are many ways to enjoy yourself that will build you up and not tear you down. - Ecclesiastes 11:10.
Showing modesty in your dress and grooming, rejecting the world's fads will also mark you as different. (Romans 12:2; 1 Timothy 2:9) So will being selective in your choice of music. (Philippians 4:8, 9) "I have music that I know I'm supposed to throw out," confesses one young Christian, "but it sounds so good!" Another young man similarly admitted: "For me music is a pitfall because I love it. If I find out something is wrong with it, or if my parents call it to my attention, I really have to force my mind to take command over my heart because in my heart I love that music." Youth, do not be "ignorant of {Satan's ] designs"! (2 Corinthians 2:11) He is using music in an effort to turn young Christians away from Jehovah. Articles have appeared in Watchtower publications discussing rap, heavy metal and alternative rock music. However, Watchtower publications cannot possibly comment on every new form and style of music that might come along. You must, therefore, use "thinking ability" and "discernment" when you select music. -Proverbs 2:11.
Finally, you must keep morally clean. The Bible urges: "Flee from fornication." (1 Corinthians 6:18) The original Greek word for fornication, por-nei'a, refers to all illicit sexual activity involving the use of the genital organs carried on outside the bonds of marriage. That would include oral sex and the deliberate fondling of sexual organs. A number of Christian youths have engaged in such behavior, imagining that they really were not committing fornication. However, God's Word clearly says: "This is what God wills, the sanctifying of you, that you abstain from fornication; that each one of you should know how to get possession of his own vessel in sanctification and honor." -1Thesalonians 4:3, 4.
Next time: YOUTHS - TRAIN YOUR PERCEPTIVE POWERS!
Watchtower, 1999
Avoiding harmful recreation will not condemn you to a joyless life. We worship a "happy God," who wants you to enjoy your youth! (1 Timothy 1:1; Ecclesiastes 11:9) But the Bible warns: "He that is loving merriment [ "entertainment," lamsa] will be an individual in want." (Proverbs 21:17) Yes, if you make recreation the most important thing in your life, you will suffer spiritual want. So follow Bible principles in your choice of recreation. There are many ways to enjoy yourself that will build you up and not tear you down. - Ecclesiastes 11:10.
Showing modesty in your dress and grooming, rejecting the world's fads will also mark you as different. (Romans 12:2; 1 Timothy 2:9) So will being selective in your choice of music. (Philippians 4:8, 9) "I have music that I know I'm supposed to throw out," confesses one young Christian, "but it sounds so good!" Another young man similarly admitted: "For me music is a pitfall because I love it. If I find out something is wrong with it, or if my parents call it to my attention, I really have to force my mind to take command over my heart because in my heart I love that music." Youth, do not be "ignorant of {Satan's ] designs"! (2 Corinthians 2:11) He is using music in an effort to turn young Christians away from Jehovah. Articles have appeared in Watchtower publications discussing rap, heavy metal and alternative rock music. However, Watchtower publications cannot possibly comment on every new form and style of music that might come along. You must, therefore, use "thinking ability" and "discernment" when you select music. -Proverbs 2:11.
Finally, you must keep morally clean. The Bible urges: "Flee from fornication." (1 Corinthians 6:18) The original Greek word for fornication, por-nei'a, refers to all illicit sexual activity involving the use of the genital organs carried on outside the bonds of marriage. That would include oral sex and the deliberate fondling of sexual organs. A number of Christian youths have engaged in such behavior, imagining that they really were not committing fornication. However, God's Word clearly says: "This is what God wills, the sanctifying of you, that you abstain from fornication; that each one of you should know how to get possession of his own vessel in sanctification and honor." -1Thesalonians 4:3, 4.
Next time: YOUTHS - TRAIN YOUR PERCEPTIVE POWERS!
Watchtower, 1999
YOUTHS-RESIST THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD
Showing "A Different Spirit"
Today, it takes courage and strength to show "a different spirit," or mental attitude - one different from the world's. One way you can do so is by avoiding sarcastic , disrespectful speech. Interestingly, the English word "sarcasm," is derived from a Greek verb that literally means "to tear flesh like dogs." (Compare Galatians 5:15) Just "as a dog's teeth can tear flesh off a bone, sarcastic "humor" can strip others of their dignity. But Colossians 3:8 exhorts you to "put the mall away from you , wrath, anger, badness, abusive speech and obscene talk out of your mouth." And Proverbs 10:19 states: "In the abundance of words there does not fail to be transgression, but the one keeping his lips in check is acting discreetly." If someone insults you, have the self-control to 'turn the other cheek,' perhaps calmly and peacefully speaking to the abuser in private. -Matthew 5:39; Proverbs 15:1.
Another way to show " a different spirit" is to maintain a balanced view of material things. Of course, it is only natural to want to have nice things. Jesus Christ himself evidently owned at least one quality garment. (John 19:23, 24) However, when owning things becomes as obsession and you are constantly begging your parents to buy you things they really cannot afford, or when you just want to imitate other youths, then the world's spirit may have more authority over you than you realize. The Bible says "Everything in the world - the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one's means of life - does not originate with the world." Yes, do not give in to the authority of the world's materialistic spirit! Learn to be content with what you have. -1 John 2:16; 1 Timothy 6:8-10.
keeping recreation in its place is also important. The prophet Isaiah declared: "Woe to those who are getting up early in the morning that they may seek just intoxicating liquor, who are lingering till late in the evening darkness so that wine itself inflames them! And there must prove to be harp and stringed instrument, tambourine and flute, and wine at their feasts; but the activity of Jehovah they do not look at, and the work of their hands they have not seen." (Isaiah 5:11, 12) Sad to say, some Christian youths have engaged in similar wild partying. When a group of Christian youths were asked to describe what goes on at youth nightclubs, one young sister said: "Fights happen all the time. I've found myself in the middle o them." Added a young brother: "Drinking, smoking, things like that." Another young brother admitted: "People get drunk. They act like idiots! And there are drugs. A lot of bad things happen. if you go there and think you won't be affected, you're wrong." For good reason, then, the Bible lists revelries, or "wild parties," as one of the "works of the flesh." -Galatians 5:19-21; Romans 13:13.
Next time: Conclusion of Showing "A Different Spirit"
Watchtower, 1999
Today, it takes courage and strength to show "a different spirit," or mental attitude - one different from the world's. One way you can do so is by avoiding sarcastic , disrespectful speech. Interestingly, the English word "sarcasm," is derived from a Greek verb that literally means "to tear flesh like dogs." (Compare Galatians 5:15) Just "as a dog's teeth can tear flesh off a bone, sarcastic "humor" can strip others of their dignity. But Colossians 3:8 exhorts you to "put the mall away from you , wrath, anger, badness, abusive speech and obscene talk out of your mouth." And Proverbs 10:19 states: "In the abundance of words there does not fail to be transgression, but the one keeping his lips in check is acting discreetly." If someone insults you, have the self-control to 'turn the other cheek,' perhaps calmly and peacefully speaking to the abuser in private. -Matthew 5:39; Proverbs 15:1.
Another way to show " a different spirit" is to maintain a balanced view of material things. Of course, it is only natural to want to have nice things. Jesus Christ himself evidently owned at least one quality garment. (John 19:23, 24) However, when owning things becomes as obsession and you are constantly begging your parents to buy you things they really cannot afford, or when you just want to imitate other youths, then the world's spirit may have more authority over you than you realize. The Bible says "Everything in the world - the desire of the flesh and the desire of the eyes and the showy display of one's means of life - does not originate with the world." Yes, do not give in to the authority of the world's materialistic spirit! Learn to be content with what you have. -1 John 2:16; 1 Timothy 6:8-10.
keeping recreation in its place is also important. The prophet Isaiah declared: "Woe to those who are getting up early in the morning that they may seek just intoxicating liquor, who are lingering till late in the evening darkness so that wine itself inflames them! And there must prove to be harp and stringed instrument, tambourine and flute, and wine at their feasts; but the activity of Jehovah they do not look at, and the work of their hands they have not seen." (Isaiah 5:11, 12) Sad to say, some Christian youths have engaged in similar wild partying. When a group of Christian youths were asked to describe what goes on at youth nightclubs, one young sister said: "Fights happen all the time. I've found myself in the middle o them." Added a young brother: "Drinking, smoking, things like that." Another young brother admitted: "People get drunk. They act like idiots! And there are drugs. A lot of bad things happen. if you go there and think you won't be affected, you're wrong." For good reason, then, the Bible lists revelries, or "wild parties," as one of the "works of the flesh." -Galatians 5:19-21; Romans 13:13.
Next time: Conclusion of Showing "A Different Spirit"
Watchtower, 1999
4.05.2011
YOUTHS-RESIST THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD
Rejecting the World's Spirit
Tragically, some Christian youths have succumbed to the world's spirit. "I displayed a fine attitude in front of my parents and fellow Christians," admits one Japanese girl. "But I was also living another life." Says a youth from Kenya: "For some time I lived a double life, which included parties, rock music, and having the wrong friends. I knew this was wrong, but I tried to ignore it, hoping that in time it would just go away. But it didn't. Things just got worse." Another youth, from Germany, says: "It all started with having the wrong kind of friends. Then I took up smoking. I wanted to hurt my parents, but I only hurt myself.
Still, it is possible to resist, yes reject, the world's spirit. Consider the ancient example of Caleb. When the ten cowardly spies brought back a bad report about the Promised Land, he, along with Joshua, refused to be intimated and go along with the crowd. They courageously declared: "The land that we passed through to spy it out is a very, very good land. If Jehovah has found delight in us, then he will certainly bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that is flowing with milk and honey." (Numbers14:7, 8) What enabled Caleb to stand up to all that pressure? Jehovah said of Caleb: "A different spirit had proved to be with him." -Numbers 14:24.
Next time: Showing "A Different Spirit"
Watchtower, 1999
Tragically, some Christian youths have succumbed to the world's spirit. "I displayed a fine attitude in front of my parents and fellow Christians," admits one Japanese girl. "But I was also living another life." Says a youth from Kenya: "For some time I lived a double life, which included parties, rock music, and having the wrong friends. I knew this was wrong, but I tried to ignore it, hoping that in time it would just go away. But it didn't. Things just got worse." Another youth, from Germany, says: "It all started with having the wrong kind of friends. Then I took up smoking. I wanted to hurt my parents, but I only hurt myself.
Still, it is possible to resist, yes reject, the world's spirit. Consider the ancient example of Caleb. When the ten cowardly spies brought back a bad report about the Promised Land, he, along with Joshua, refused to be intimated and go along with the crowd. They courageously declared: "The land that we passed through to spy it out is a very, very good land. If Jehovah has found delight in us, then he will certainly bring us into this land and give it to us, a land that is flowing with milk and honey." (Numbers14:7, 8) What enabled Caleb to stand up to all that pressure? Jehovah said of Caleb: "A different spirit had proved to be with him." -Numbers 14:24.
Next time: Showing "A Different Spirit"
Watchtower, 1999
YOUTHS-RESIST THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD
Manifestations of the World's Spirit
What are some manifestations of the spirit of the world among young people today? Dishonesty and rebelliousness. One magazine report stated that more than 70 percent of college juniors and seniors said that they had cheated during high school. Flippant, sarcastic and unclean speech are also prevalent. True, on occasion, Job and the apostle Paul used what some might view as sarcasm to express righteous indignation. (Job 12:2; 2 Corinthians 12:13) However, the cruel sarcasm heard on the lips of many young people often amounts to verbal abuse.
Excesses in recreation are also manifestations of the world's spirit. Youth nightclubs, raves and other forms of wild reveling are popular among young people. Extremes in dress and grooming are likewise prevalent. From oversized hip-hop styles to shocking fads, such as body-piercing,many of today's youths identify themselves with the world's rebellious spirit. (Compare Romans 6:16) Preoccupation with material possessions is another manifestation. According to one educational journal, "marketers are pummeling kids at every turn with a formidable arsenal of techniques and panoply [an array] of products." By the time youths in the United States graduate from high school, they will have been exposed to 360,000 TV ads. Your peers may also pressure you to buy. Says a 14-year-old girl: "Everyone is always asking. 'What brand is your sweater, jacket, or jeans?"
Since Bible times, unwholesome music has been a tool of Satan to stimulate unclean behavior. (Compare Exodus 32:17-19; Psalm 69:12; Isaiah 23:16) Not surprisingly, then, music with sexually seductive-if not explicit-lyrics, profanity and wild, arousing tempos is popular. Yet another manifestation of this world's unclean spirit is sexual immorality. ( 1 Corinthians 6:9-11) Reports The New York Times: "Sex for many teenagers has become almost a rite of passage . . . More than two-thirds of high school seniors have had sexual intercourse." And article in The Wall Street Journal cited evidence that children between the ages of 8 and 12 are "becoming more sexually active." Says a recently retired school counselor: "We're beginning to see a few pregnant sixth-graders."
Next time: Rejecting the World's Spirit
Watchtower, 1999
What are some manifestations of the spirit of the world among young people today? Dishonesty and rebelliousness. One magazine report stated that more than 70 percent of college juniors and seniors said that they had cheated during high school. Flippant, sarcastic and unclean speech are also prevalent. True, on occasion, Job and the apostle Paul used what some might view as sarcasm to express righteous indignation. (Job 12:2; 2 Corinthians 12:13) However, the cruel sarcasm heard on the lips of many young people often amounts to verbal abuse.
Excesses in recreation are also manifestations of the world's spirit. Youth nightclubs, raves and other forms of wild reveling are popular among young people. Extremes in dress and grooming are likewise prevalent. From oversized hip-hop styles to shocking fads, such as body-piercing,many of today's youths identify themselves with the world's rebellious spirit. (Compare Romans 6:16) Preoccupation with material possessions is another manifestation. According to one educational journal, "marketers are pummeling kids at every turn with a formidable arsenal of techniques and panoply [an array] of products." By the time youths in the United States graduate from high school, they will have been exposed to 360,000 TV ads. Your peers may also pressure you to buy. Says a 14-year-old girl: "Everyone is always asking. 'What brand is your sweater, jacket, or jeans?"
Since Bible times, unwholesome music has been a tool of Satan to stimulate unclean behavior. (Compare Exodus 32:17-19; Psalm 69:12; Isaiah 23:16) Not surprisingly, then, music with sexually seductive-if not explicit-lyrics, profanity and wild, arousing tempos is popular. Yet another manifestation of this world's unclean spirit is sexual immorality. ( 1 Corinthians 6:9-11) Reports The New York Times: "Sex for many teenagers has become almost a rite of passage . . . More than two-thirds of high school seniors have had sexual intercourse." And article in The Wall Street Journal cited evidence that children between the ages of 8 and 12 are "becoming more sexually active." Says a recently retired school counselor: "We're beginning to see a few pregnant sixth-graders."
Next time: Rejecting the World's Spirit
Watchtower, 1999
4.04.2011
YOUTHS-RESIST THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD
Paul wrote: "It is you God made alive though you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you at one time walked according to the system of things of this world, according to the ruler of the authority of the air, the spirit that now operates in the sons of disobedience. Yes, among them we all at one time conducted ourselves in harmony with the desires of the flesh, doing the things willed by the flesh and the thoughts, and we were naturally children of wrath even as the rest." -Ephesians 2:1-3.
Before learning the Christian way, Christians in Ephesus had been unwitting followers of "the ruler of the authority of the air," Satan the Devil. That "air is not some literal place where Satan and his demons dwell. When Paul wrote these words, Satan the Devil and his demons still had access to heaven. (Compare Job 1-6; Revelation 12:7-12) The word "air" means the spirit or mental attitude, that dominates Satan's world. (Compare Revelation 16:17-21) Like the air around us, this spirit is everywhere.
But what is "the authority of the air"? Evidently, this refers to the profound influence this "air" has on people. Paul said that this spirit "operates in the sons of disobedience." So the spirit of disobedience and rebellion, and peer pressure is one way in which this authority is exercised. "When you're in school," says a young Witness girl, "everyone's always encouraging you to be a little rebellious. The kids respect you more if you do something on the edge."
Next time: Manifestations of the World's Spirit
Watchtower, 1999
Before learning the Christian way, Christians in Ephesus had been unwitting followers of "the ruler of the authority of the air," Satan the Devil. That "air is not some literal place where Satan and his demons dwell. When Paul wrote these words, Satan the Devil and his demons still had access to heaven. (Compare Job 1-6; Revelation 12:7-12) The word "air" means the spirit or mental attitude, that dominates Satan's world. (Compare Revelation 16:17-21) Like the air around us, this spirit is everywhere.
But what is "the authority of the air"? Evidently, this refers to the profound influence this "air" has on people. Paul said that this spirit "operates in the sons of disobedience." So the spirit of disobedience and rebellion, and peer pressure is one way in which this authority is exercised. "When you're in school," says a young Witness girl, "everyone's always encouraging you to be a little rebellious. The kids respect you more if you do something on the edge."
Next time: Manifestations of the World's Spirit
Watchtower, 1999
4.03.2011
DOES THE DEVIL Make us Sick?
The Long-Term Solution
Sickness is not God's fault. "With evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone." (James 1:13) If one of his worshipers gets sick, Jehovah sustains him spiritually. "Jehovah himself will sustain him upon a divan of illness; all his bed you will certainly change during his sickness." (Psalm 41:3) Yes, God has compassion. He wants to help us, not hurt us.
Indeed, Jehovah has a long-term solution for sickness-Jesus' death and resurrection. By means of Jesus' ransom sacrifice, righthearted ones are redeemed from their sinful condition and will eventually have access to perfect health and eternal life in a paradise earth. (Matthew 5:5; John 3:16) Jesus' miracles were a preview of the true healing that God's Kingdom will bring. God will also remove Satan and his demons. (Romans 16:20) Indeed, Jehovah has wonderful things in store for those who exercise faith in him. We just need to be patient and endure.
In the meantime, God dispenses practical wisdom and spiritual direction by means of the Bible and the worldwide brotherhood of faithful worshipers. He show us how to avoid the vices that cause health problems. And he provides us with true friends who will help when problems arise.
Think again of Job. Going to a witch doctor would have been the worse thing Job could have done! It would have deprived him of God's protection, and he would have lost out on all the blessings that awaited him after his ordeal. God did not forget Job,and he will not forget us. "You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome Jehovah gave," Says the disciple James. (James 5:11) If we never give up, we too will receive wonderful blessings in God's due time.
What happened to little Owmadji? Her mother remembered an article in The Watchtower's companion magazine, Awake! About oral rehydration therapy. She followed its instructions and prepared the solution for Owmadji to drink. Now the little girl is fine and healthy.
Next time: YOUTHS-RESIST THE SPIRITS OF THE WORLD
Watchtower, 1999
Sickness is not God's fault. "With evil things God cannot be tried nor does he himself try anyone." (James 1:13) If one of his worshipers gets sick, Jehovah sustains him spiritually. "Jehovah himself will sustain him upon a divan of illness; all his bed you will certainly change during his sickness." (Psalm 41:3) Yes, God has compassion. He wants to help us, not hurt us.
Indeed, Jehovah has a long-term solution for sickness-Jesus' death and resurrection. By means of Jesus' ransom sacrifice, righthearted ones are redeemed from their sinful condition and will eventually have access to perfect health and eternal life in a paradise earth. (Matthew 5:5; John 3:16) Jesus' miracles were a preview of the true healing that God's Kingdom will bring. God will also remove Satan and his demons. (Romans 16:20) Indeed, Jehovah has wonderful things in store for those who exercise faith in him. We just need to be patient and endure.
In the meantime, God dispenses practical wisdom and spiritual direction by means of the Bible and the worldwide brotherhood of faithful worshipers. He show us how to avoid the vices that cause health problems. And he provides us with true friends who will help when problems arise.
Think again of Job. Going to a witch doctor would have been the worse thing Job could have done! It would have deprived him of God's protection, and he would have lost out on all the blessings that awaited him after his ordeal. God did not forget Job,and he will not forget us. "You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome Jehovah gave," Says the disciple James. (James 5:11) If we never give up, we too will receive wonderful blessings in God's due time.
What happened to little Owmadji? Her mother remembered an article in The Watchtower's companion magazine, Awake! About oral rehydration therapy. She followed its instructions and prepared the solution for Owmadji to drink. Now the little girl is fine and healthy.
Next time: YOUTHS-RESIST THE SPIRITS OF THE WORLD
Watchtower, 1999
4.02.2011
DOES THE DEVIL Make us Sick?
Conclusion of How Does Satan Work?
Satan tried persuasion with Job too. Robbing him of his family, his wealth and he health was not enough. Job was also given very bad counsel by his wife when she said: "Curse God and die!" (Job 2:9) Then he was visited by three "friends" who made a concerted effort to convince him that he was to blame for his sickness. (Job 19:1-3) In this way Satan took advantage of Job's weakened state to try to discourage him and shake his confidence in Jehovah's righteousness. Yet, Job continued to lean on Jehovah as his only hope. -Compare Psalm 55:22.
When we are sick, we too may become depressed. In such a situation, Satan is quick to try to make us act in some way that will compromises our faith. Hence, when illness strikes it is important to keep in mind that the basic cause of our suffering is likely inherited imperfection rather than some uncanny influence. Remember, faithful Isaac became blind a number of years before his death. (Genesis 27:1) The cause was not wicked spirits but old age. Rachel died while giving birth, not because of Satan, but because of human frailty. (Genesis 35:17-19) Eventually, all the faithful ones of old died-not because of spells or curses but because of inherited imperfection.
Imagining that unseen spirits have a direct influence on every sickness that befalls is a snare. It may inspire a morbid fear of the spirits. Then, when we become sick, we might be tempted to try to appease the demons instead of keeping far away from them. If Satan can scare us into resorting to spiritistic practices that would be a betrayal of the true God, Jehovah. (2 Corinthians 6:15) We should be guided by a respectful fear of God, not by a superstitious fear of of his Adversary. -Revelation 14:7.
Little Owmadji already has the best possible protection against wicked spirits. According to the apostle Paul, God considers her "holy" because she has a believing mother, and her mother can pray for God to be with her daughter by means of holy spirit. (1 Corinthians 7:14) Blessed with such accurate knowledge, Hawa was able to seek effective treatment for owmandji instead of relying on amulets.
Next time: Various Causes of Sickness
Watchtower, 1999
Satan tried persuasion with Job too. Robbing him of his family, his wealth and he health was not enough. Job was also given very bad counsel by his wife when she said: "Curse God and die!" (Job 2:9) Then he was visited by three "friends" who made a concerted effort to convince him that he was to blame for his sickness. (Job 19:1-3) In this way Satan took advantage of Job's weakened state to try to discourage him and shake his confidence in Jehovah's righteousness. Yet, Job continued to lean on Jehovah as his only hope. -Compare Psalm 55:22.
When we are sick, we too may become depressed. In such a situation, Satan is quick to try to make us act in some way that will compromises our faith. Hence, when illness strikes it is important to keep in mind that the basic cause of our suffering is likely inherited imperfection rather than some uncanny influence. Remember, faithful Isaac became blind a number of years before his death. (Genesis 27:1) The cause was not wicked spirits but old age. Rachel died while giving birth, not because of Satan, but because of human frailty. (Genesis 35:17-19) Eventually, all the faithful ones of old died-not because of spells or curses but because of inherited imperfection.
Imagining that unseen spirits have a direct influence on every sickness that befalls is a snare. It may inspire a morbid fear of the spirits. Then, when we become sick, we might be tempted to try to appease the demons instead of keeping far away from them. If Satan can scare us into resorting to spiritistic practices that would be a betrayal of the true God, Jehovah. (2 Corinthians 6:15) We should be guided by a respectful fear of God, not by a superstitious fear of of his Adversary. -Revelation 14:7.
Little Owmadji already has the best possible protection against wicked spirits. According to the apostle Paul, God considers her "holy" because she has a believing mother, and her mother can pray for God to be with her daughter by means of holy spirit. (1 Corinthians 7:14) Blessed with such accurate knowledge, Hawa was able to seek effective treatment for owmandji instead of relying on amulets.
Next time: Various Causes of Sickness
Watchtower, 1999
4.01.2011
DOES THE DEVIL Make us Sick?
SICKNESS SHOULD NEVER HAVE EXISTED. God created us to live forever in perfect health. It was a spirit creature, Satan, who caused sickness, pain and death to inflict the human family when he led or first parents, Adam and Eve, into sin. -Genesis 3:1-5, 17-19; Romans 5:12.
DOES this mean that all sickness is a direct result of interference from the spirit world? As noted in the preceding article, many today think so. Little Owmadji's grandmother did. But was Owmadji's diarrhea-a sometimes fatal disease for young children int he tropics- really caused by unseen spirits?
Next time: Satan's Role
Watchtower, 1999
DOES this mean that all sickness is a direct result of interference from the spirit world? As noted in the preceding article, many today think so. Little Owmadji's grandmother did. But was Owmadji's diarrhea-a sometimes fatal disease for young children int he tropics- really caused by unseen spirits?
Next time: Satan's Role
Watchtower, 1999
3.25.2011
KEEP PRACTICING THE THINGS YOU HAVE LEARNED
Continue Practicing What You Have Learned
Those who practice what they have learned from God's Word reap numerous benefits. The disciple James wrote: "He who peers into the perfect law that belongs to freedom and who persists in it, this man, because he has become, not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, will be happy in his doing it." (James 1:25) Yes, if we act in accord with the Scriptural things that we learn, we will have genuine happiness and will be better able to cope with life's pressures. Mose of all, we will have Jehovah's blessing and the prospect of everlasting life! -Proverbs 10:22; 1 Timothy 6:6)
By all means, then, continue to apply yourself to the study of God's Word. Regularly assemble with worshipers of Jehovah, and pay attention to the material presented at Christian meetings. Apply what you learn, keep practicing it, and "the God of peace will be with you." -Philippians 4:9.
Next time: "SALVATION BELONGS TO JEHOVAH"
Watchtower, 2002
3.23.2011
KEEP PRACTICING THE THINGS YOU HAVE LEARNED
Reject "False Stories"
Satan tries to break our integrity through the sowing of doubts about what we have been taught. Today, as in the first century, apostates and others seek to destroy the faith of guileless ones. (Galatians 2:4; 5:7, 8) Sometimes they use the media to spread distorted information or even outright lies about the methods and motives of Jehovah's people. Paul warned that some would be turned away from the truth. "There will be a period of time," he wrote, "when they will not put up with the healthful teaching, but, in accord with their own desires, they will accumulate teachers for themselves to have their ears tickled; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, whereas they will be turned aside to false stories ." -2Timothy 4:3, 4.
Instead of holding to the pattern of healthful words, some were intrigued by "false stories." What were these false stories? Perhaps Paul had in mind fanciful legends, such as those found in the apocryphal book of Tobit. False stories may also have included sensational and speculative rumors. Then, too, some-"in accord with their own desires" -may have been intellectually seduced by those who endorsed a permissive view of God's standards or who were critical of those taking the lead in the congregation. (2 John 9, 10; Jude 4) Whatever stumbling blocks were involved, some evidently preferred falsehoods over the truths of God's Word. Soon they stopped practicing the things they had learned, and this was to their own spiritual detriment. - Peter 3:15, 16.
We can avoid turning aside to false stories today if we scrutinize and are selective about what we listen to and what we read. For example, the media often promote immorality . May people encourage agnosticism or outright atheism. Higher critics ridicule the Bible's claim to divine inspiration. And modern-day apostates keep on trying to sow seeds of doubt in order to subvert the faith of Christians. Regarding a comparable danger posed by false prophets in the first century, the apostle John warned: "Beloved ones, do not believe every inspired expression, but test the inspired expression to see whether they originate with God, because may false prophets have gone forth into the world." (1 John 4:1) So we need to be careful.
Next time: Conclusion of Reject "False Stories"
Watchtower, 2002
3.12.2011
Who Is Really Behind the Occult?
Shield Yourself!
Even though wicked spirits have superhuman powers, we can, with God's help, 'take our stand against them' and come off victorious. (1 Peter 5:9) In order to get that help, however, we need to learn God's requirements and act on them. Concerning the Christians in his day, the apostle Paul wrote: "We . . . have not ceased praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the accurate knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual comprehension, in order to walk worthily of Jehovah to the end of fully pleasing him." -Colossians 1:9, 10.
Those who gained that "accurate knowledge" included a number of people in the city of Ephesus who practiced occult arts. Note how a knowledge of the truth affected them. The Bible states: "Quite a number of those who practiced magical arts brought their books together and burned them up before everybody." The books, incidentally, were worth "fifty thousand pieces of silver," which was no small amount! (Acts 19:17-19) This courageous example was recorded for our benefit. -2 Timothy 3:16.
Next time: Principles That Protect
Awake! 2011
Who Is Really Behind the Occult?
Who Are the Demons?
Long before Jehovah formed humans, he created an untold number of intelligent spirit "sons of God" in heaven. (Job 38:4, 7) Like humans, they are free moral agents, and for a long time, they all remained loyal to God. But that happy situation came to an abrupt end. How so?
After God created humankind, one spirit creature began to covet something to which he was not entitled-worship. Using a serpent the way a ventriloquist might use a puppet, this wicked angel seduced the first woman, Eve, into disobeying her Creator. (Genesis 3:1-6) The Bible calls that rebellious angel "the original serpent,the one called Devil and Satan." (Revelation 12:9) Jesus described him as "a manslayer" Who "did not stand fast in the truth," adding: "When he speaks the lie, he speaks according to his own disposition because he is a liar and the father of the lie." -John 8:44.
In time other spirit "sons of the true God" joined Satan in his rebellion. ( Genesis 6:1, 2) They are later referred to as "the angels that sinned" and "the angels that did not keep their original position but forsook their own proper dwelling place," or their assigned place in heaven. ( 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6) They came to be called demons. (James 2:19) Moreover, they are determined to turn as many humans as possible away from true worship, as they did many Israelites in Bible times. (Deuteronomy 32:16, 17) Similarly today, as in the past, Satan and the demons cleverly employ religious lies. - 2 Corinthians 11:414, 15.
Next time: Shield Yourself!
Watchtower, 2011
3.11.2011
Who Is Really Behind the Occult?
CONCERNING our Creator, the Bible says: "God is light and there is no darkness at all in union with him." (1 John 1:5) That is especially true in a spiritual sense. So could the true God be the power behind the occult? Or is there a sinister force involved?
Foremost among occult practices are divination and spiritism, which include astrology, numerology, psalmisty and sorcery, as well as communicating with the "dead" and casting spells. These practices have a very long history, most dating back to ancient Babylon, the ruins of which lie in Iraq. (Isaiah 47:1, 12, 13) From Babylon, occult practices spread around the ancient world and became deeply entrenched in many cultures and civilizations.
Consider an event that occurred in the city of Philippi in ancient Macedonia. There, a small group of Christian ministers, which included the apostle Paul and the physician Luke, encountered a girl who had occult powers. Note how the Bible writer Luke revealed the secret source of her powers. He wrote: "A certain servant girl with a spirit, a demon of divination, met us. She used to furnish her masters with much gain by practicing the art of prediction." -Acts 16:16-18.
Yes, this girl's powers did not come from the true God, Jehovah, but from a demon, an evil spirit. Hence, Paul and his companions refused to listen to her. Perhaps you are now wondering: 'Who are demons? And where did they come from?' Again, note the Bible's answers.
Next time: Who Are the Demons?
Awake! 2011
2.28.2011
Trust in an Imperfect World
The Integrity of Job
Job's stand, maintaining his integrity under test, is well-known. Interestingly, Job did not understand why disaster came upon him. He did not know that Satan had imputed false motives to him, alleging that Job served God for selfish reasons and claiming that to save his own skin , Job would willingly break his integrity. God allowed Job to undergo some very trying experiences so as to show that Satan was wrong. -Job 1:6-12; 2:1-8.
Three false friends entered the picture. They deliberately misrepresented God's standards and purposes. Even Job's wife also unable to see the issue, failed to encourage her husband in his time of extreme need. (Job 2:9-13) But Job stood firm. "Until I expire I shall not take away my integrity, from myself! On my justness I have laid hold, and I shall not let it go; my heart will not taunt me for any of my days." -Job 27:5, 6.
Job's sterling example, along with the integrity of many other faithful men and women, as recorded in the Bible, proved Satan a liar.
Next time: Integrity and the Christian Ministry
Watchtower, 1997
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