Conclusion of Useful Today
Complete copies of the Septuagint existing today date from as far back as the fourth century C.E. Such manuscripts and later copies do not contain the divine name, Jehovah, represented in Hebrew by the Tetragrammaton (YHWH). These copies have substituted the Greek words for "God" and "Lord" wherever the Tetragrammaton occurred in the Hebrew text. However, a discovery in Palestine some 50 years ago shed light on this matter. A team exploring caves near the west shore of the Dead Sea uncovered fragments from an ancient leather scroll of the 12 prophets (Horea through Malachi) written in Greek. These writings were dated between 50 B.C.E. and 50 C.E. In these earlier fragments, the Tetragrammaton had not been replaced by the Greek words for "God" and "Lord." Hence, the use of the divine name in the early Septuagint version of the Scriptures was confirmed.
The year 1971 saw the release for publication of fragment of an ancient papyrus scroll (Foud 266 papri). What did these portions of the Septuagint, dating back to the second of the first century B.C.E., reveal? The divine name was preserved in them also. These early fragments of the Septuagint provide strong evidence that Jesus and his first-century disciples knew and used God's name.
Today, the Bible is the most translated book in history. Over 90 percent of the human family have access to at least part of it in their own language. We are particularly grateful for an accurate modern-language translation, the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, now available in whole or in part in over 40 languages. The New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures-With References contains hundreds of footnote references to the Septuagint and to other ancient manuscripts. Indeed, the Septuagint continues to be of interest and value to Bible students in our day.
Next time: The Mystery of Ill Health
Watchtower, 2002
Showing posts with label Bible Knowledge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bible Knowledge. Show all posts
3.24.2011
KEEP PRACTICING THE THINGS YOU HAVE LEARNED
Conclusion of Reject "False Stories"
In this regard, Paul wrote: "Keep testing whether you are in the faith." (2 Corinthians 13:5) The apostle urged us to keep testing ourselves to determine whether we are adhering to the body of the Christian beliefs. If our ears are inclined toward disgruntled ones, we need to analyze ourselves prayerfully. (Psalm 139:23, 24) Are we inclined to find fault with Jehovah's people? If so, why? Have we been hurt by he words or actions of someone? If so, are we keeping things in proper perspective? Any tribulation we face in this system of things is temporary. (2 Corinthians 4:17) Even if we experience some trial in the congregation, why should we quit serving God? If we are upset over something, is it not far better to do what we can to resolve the matter and then leave it in Jehovah's hands? -Psalm4:4; Proverbs 3:5, 6; Ephesians 4:26.
Rather than being critical, let us maintain a spiritually healthy view of the information received through personal study and congregation meetings. (1 Corinthians 2:14, 15) And instead of questioning God's Word, how much wiser it is to have the attitude of the first-century Beroeans who examined the Scriptures closely! (Acts 17:10, 11) Then, let us act on what we learn, turning down false stories and clinging to the truth.
There is another type of false story that we need to be on guard against. A great many sensational tales circulate, often by means of E-mail. It is wise to be cautious about such tales, especially if we do not know the original source of the information. Even if an experience or story was sent by a reputable Christian, that individual may not have first-hand knowledge of the facts. That is why it is important to be cautious about repeating or forwarding unverified accounts. We surely would not want to repeat "godless myths," or "false stories which violate what is holy." (1 Timothy 4:7; New International Version) Since we also have an obligation to speak truthfully to one another, we are acting wisely by avoiding anything that would cause us even unwittingly to spread untruths. - Ephesians 4:25.
Next time: Positive Results of Practicing the Truth
Watchtower, 2002
1.10.2011
DO YOU HAVE"THE MIND OF CHRIST?"
Considerate of Others
Jesus was considerate. He was sensitive to the feelings of others. The mere sight of the afflicted touched him so deeply that he was moved to relieve their suffering. (Matthew 14:14) He was also considerate of the limitations and needs of others. (John 16:12) Once, people brought him a blind man and begged Jesus to heal him. Jesus restored the man's sight, but he did so gradually. At first, the man saw individuals only indistinctly-"what seemed to be trees, but they are walking about." Then, Jesus restored his vision completely. Why did he heal the man gradually? This may well have been in order to enable one so used to being in darkness to adjust to the shock of suddenly seeing a sunlit and complex world. -Mark 8:22-26.
Consider also an incident that took place after the Passover of 32 C.E. Jesus and his disciples had entered the region of the Decapolis, east of the Sea of Galilee. There, great crowds soon found them and brought to Jesus many who were sick and disabled, and he cured them all. (Matthew 15:29, 30) Interestingly, Jesus singled out one man for special consideration. The Gospel writer Mark,the only one to record this incident, reports what happened. -Mark 7:31-35.
The man was deaf and hardly able to talk. Jesus may have sensed this man's particular nervousness or embarrassment. Jesus then did something a bit unusual. He took the man aside, away from the crowd, to a private place. Then Jesus used some signs to convey to the man what he was about to do. He "put his finger into the man's ears and, after spitting, he touched his tongue." (Mark 7:33) Next, Jesus looked up to heaven and uttered a prayerful sigh. These demonstrative actions would say to the man,'What I am about to do for you is due to the power from God.' Finally, Jesus said: "Be opened." (Mark 7:34) At that, the man's hearing was restored, and he was able to speak normally.
What consideration Jesus showed for others! He was sensitive to their feelings,and this sympathetic regard, in turn , moved him to act in ways that spared their feelings. As Christians, we do well to cultivate and demonstrate the mind of Christ in this regard. The Bible admonishes us: "All of you be like-minded, showing fellow feeling, having brotherly affection, tenderly compassionate, humble in mind." (1 Peter 3:8) This certainly calls for us to speak and act in ways that take the feelings of others into consideration.
In the congregation, we can show the consideration for the feelings of others by according them dignity, treating them as we would like to be treated. (Matthew 7:12) That would include being careful about what we say as well as how we say it. (Colossians 4:6) Remember that 'thoughtless words can stab like a sword.' (Proverbs 12:18) What about in the family? A husband and wife who truly love each other are sensitive to each other's feelings. (Ephesians 5:33) They avoid harsh words, unrelenting criticism, and bitter sarcasm-all of which can causes hurt feeling that are not easily healed. Children too have feelings, and loving parents take these feelings into consideration. When correction is needed, such parents give it in ways that respect the dignity of their children and spare them needless embarrassment. (Colossians 3:21) When we thus demonstrate consideration for others, we show that we have the mind of Christ.
Next time: Willing to Trust Others
Watchtower, 2000
12.10.2010
Learning the Excelling Way of LOVE
We Must Learn to Love God
Jehovah God knows that in spite of everything, mankind is still capable of showing love. That is why he requires all who want to please him to manifest love to the best of their ability. This requirement was made clear by God's Son, Jesus Christ, when he was asked to name the greatest commandment in the Law given to Israel. He said: " 'You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.' This is the greatest and first commandment." Then he added: "The second, like it, is this, 'You must love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandment the whole Law hangs." -Matthew 22:37-40.
Many people feel, however, that it is very difficult to love someone whom they cannot see, and we humans cannot see Jehovah God because he is a Spirit. (John 4:24) Still, we are affected every day by what God does, as we all depend on the many good things he created for our benefit. The apostle Paul pointed out this face when he said: "[God] did not leave himself without witness in that he did good, giving you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling your hearts to the full with food and good cheer." -Acts 14:17.
Even though everyone benefits from the Creator's provisions in one way or another, comparatively few are grateful to him or are moved to give thanks to him. Thus, we need to take stock of all the good things that God has done for us and to meditate on all the qualities that permeate all that he does. Doing so should enable us to discern that awe-inspiring wisdom and power of our Grand Creator. (Isaiah 45:18) Above all, it is , in that he not only granted us life but also made it possible for us to enjoy the many pleasures of living.
For example, think of the endless variety of beautiful flowers that God created on earth. How wonderful for us that he also endowed us with the ability to see and to derive great pleasure from these things of beauty! Similarly, God provided all sorts of nourishing food for our sustenance. How thoughtful of him that he also created in us the sense of taste so that we can experience such enjoyment from eating! Are these not eloquent proofs that God truly loves us and has our best interests in mind? -Psalm 145:16, 17; Isaiah 42:5, 8.
Besides revealing himself to us through the "book of nature," the Creator, through his Word, the Bible, shows us what kind of God he is. This is because in the Bible are recorded many of the loving things Jehovah God did in the past and to the numerous blessings he promised to bestow upon mankind in the near future. (Genesis 22:17, 18; Exodus 3:17; psalm 72:6-16; Revelation 21:4, 5) Above all, the Bible reveals to us the greatest expression of God's love toward mankind -giving his only-begotten Son to be our Redeemer so that we can be freed from the bondage of sin and death. (Romans 5:8) Indeed, the more we learn about our loving Creator, the more we are moved to love him from our heart.
Next time: Learning to Love Our Fellow Humans
Watchtower, 1999
12.09.2010
How Can the Quest for Longer Life SUCCEED?
The True Hope
That situation however, was not to be permanent. Romans 8:20 says: "The creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will but through him that subjected it, on the basis of hope." Man's Creator, Jehovah God, subjected humans to death because they sinned against him, but when doing this he also established a basis for hope.
This basis was clearly identified when Jesus Christ came to earth. John 3:16 says: "For God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed bu have everlasting life." How, though, can exercising faith in Jesus Christ save us from death?
If sin is the cause of death, sin has to be removed before death can be abolished. Early in Jesus' ministry as the Christ, John the Baptizer said: "See, the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29) Jesus Christ was completely without sin. Thus, he was not subject to death, which is the punishment for sin. Nevertheless, he allowed other to put him to death. Why? Because by doing so, he paid the price for our sins. -Matthew 20:28; 1 Peter 3:18.
With that price paid, the possibility of living without ever dying was opened up for all those exercising faith in Jesus. Science may contribute to prolonging our lives to a very limited extent, but exercising faith in Jesus is the real way to everlasting life. Jesus gained such life in heaven, and his faithful apostles and some others will too. Yet, for most of us who exercise faith in Jesus, everlasting life will be on earth, when Jehovah God has restored the earthly Paradise.- Isaiah 25:8; 1 Corinthians 15:48, 49; 2 Corinthians 5:1.
Next time: Everlasting Life on a Paradise Earth
Watchtower, 1999
That situation however, was not to be permanent. Romans 8:20 says: "The creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will but through him that subjected it, on the basis of hope." Man's Creator, Jehovah God, subjected humans to death because they sinned against him, but when doing this he also established a basis for hope.
This basis was clearly identified when Jesus Christ came to earth. John 3:16 says: "For God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed bu have everlasting life." How, though, can exercising faith in Jesus Christ save us from death?
If sin is the cause of death, sin has to be removed before death can be abolished. Early in Jesus' ministry as the Christ, John the Baptizer said: "See, the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29) Jesus Christ was completely without sin. Thus, he was not subject to death, which is the punishment for sin. Nevertheless, he allowed other to put him to death. Why? Because by doing so, he paid the price for our sins. -Matthew 20:28; 1 Peter 3:18.
With that price paid, the possibility of living without ever dying was opened up for all those exercising faith in Jesus. Science may contribute to prolonging our lives to a very limited extent, but exercising faith in Jesus is the real way to everlasting life. Jesus gained such life in heaven, and his faithful apostles and some others will too. Yet, for most of us who exercise faith in Jesus, everlasting life will be on earth, when Jehovah God has restored the earthly Paradise.- Isaiah 25:8; 1 Corinthians 15:48, 49; 2 Corinthians 5:1.
Next time: Everlasting Life on a Paradise Earth
Watchtower, 1999
12.07.2010
Our Quest for a LONGER LIFE
How Can the Quest for a Longer Life SUCCEED?
SOME cherish the hope that the new millennium will see a breakthrough in man's efforts to prolong life. Dr. Ronald Klatz is one of them. He is president of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, an organization of physicians and scientists dedicated to extending the human life span. He and his colleagues plan to live a very long time. "I'm looking at a life span of 130 years, at a minimum,: says Dr. Klatz. "We believe that aging is not inevitable. Technology exists now which can slow, stop and perhaps even reverse significantly the physical deterioration and disease which are currently call natural aging." Dr. Klatz himself takes about 60 pills each day in his quest to prolong life.
Note: Anyone that thinks they can live longer than what is prophesied for them are not very bright. If, in fact, they can live any longer than they can look younger forever are only deluding themselves or have Satan on their side helping them. The Bible itself says that we are to grow old and die-our hairs are numbered. Adam and Eve started this and it must be fulfilled according to Jehovah's Words in the Bible. Do not be fooled by thinking that you will live forever with man's inventions. It is Satan who is doing this as a way to get people away from worshiping Jehovah. If anyone can't see that, that is a crying shame.
Next time: Hormone Therapy and Genetics -Reasons for Hope?
Watchtower, 1999
12.05.2010
YOU CAN COPE With Discouragement!
A Faithful Servant Gets Discouraged
It is not easy to put up a hard fight for the faith. At times, you may get discouraged. Then you may even feel guilty about being discouraged, concluding that a faithful servant of God should never feel that way. Think of Elijah, one of Israel's outstanding prophets.
When Israel's Queen Jezebel, a fanatic promoter of Baal worship, learned that the prophets of Baal had been killed by Elijah, she swore to put him to death. Elijah had faced enemies greater than Jezebel, but suddenly he became so discouraged that he wanted to die. (1 Kings 19:1-4) How could that have happened? he had forgotten something.
Elijah had forgotten to look to Jehovah as the Source of his strength. Who had given Elijah the power to raise the dead and to face the prophets of Baal? Jehovah. Certainly, Jehovah could give him the strength to face the wrath of Queen Jezebel. -1 Kings 17:17-24; 18:21-40; 2 Corinthians 4:7.
Anyone can momentarily waver in his trust in Jehovah. Like Elijah, you may at times take a human view of a certain problem rather than use "the wisdom from above" to deal with it. (James 3:17) However, Jehovah did not foresake Elijah for this temporary lapse.
Elijah had fled to Beer-sheba and then on into the wilderness, where he thought no one could find him. But Jehovah found him. He sent an angel to comfort hm. The angel saw to it that Elijah had freshly baked bread to eat and refreshing water to drink. After Elijah had rested, the angel directed him to travel almost 200 miles to Mount Horeb, where he was to be further strengthened by Jehovah. - 1Kings 19:5-8
At Mount Horeb, Elijah witnessed a faith-strengthening demonstration of Jehovah's power. Then, in a calm, low voice, Jehovah assured him that he was not alone. Jehovah was with him, and 7,000 of his brothers were also with him, although unknown to Elijah,. Finally, Jehovah assigned him work to do. He had not cast Elijah off as his prophet! -1 Kings 19:11-18.
Next time: Help Is Available
Watchtower, 2001
It is not easy to put up a hard fight for the faith. At times, you may get discouraged. Then you may even feel guilty about being discouraged, concluding that a faithful servant of God should never feel that way. Think of Elijah, one of Israel's outstanding prophets.
When Israel's Queen Jezebel, a fanatic promoter of Baal worship, learned that the prophets of Baal had been killed by Elijah, she swore to put him to death. Elijah had faced enemies greater than Jezebel, but suddenly he became so discouraged that he wanted to die. (1 Kings 19:1-4) How could that have happened? he had forgotten something.
Elijah had forgotten to look to Jehovah as the Source of his strength. Who had given Elijah the power to raise the dead and to face the prophets of Baal? Jehovah. Certainly, Jehovah could give him the strength to face the wrath of Queen Jezebel. -1 Kings 17:17-24; 18:21-40; 2 Corinthians 4:7.
Anyone can momentarily waver in his trust in Jehovah. Like Elijah, you may at times take a human view of a certain problem rather than use "the wisdom from above" to deal with it. (James 3:17) However, Jehovah did not foresake Elijah for this temporary lapse.
Elijah had fled to Beer-sheba and then on into the wilderness, where he thought no one could find him. But Jehovah found him. He sent an angel to comfort hm. The angel saw to it that Elijah had freshly baked bread to eat and refreshing water to drink. After Elijah had rested, the angel directed him to travel almost 200 miles to Mount Horeb, where he was to be further strengthened by Jehovah. - 1Kings 19:5-8
At Mount Horeb, Elijah witnessed a faith-strengthening demonstration of Jehovah's power. Then, in a calm, low voice, Jehovah assured him that he was not alone. Jehovah was with him, and 7,000 of his brothers were also with him, although unknown to Elijah,. Finally, Jehovah assigned him work to do. He had not cast Elijah off as his prophet! -1 Kings 19:11-18.
Next time: Help Is Available
Watchtower, 2001
12.04.2010
YOU CAN COPE With Discouragement!
When Others Hurt Your Feelings
You cannot expect to be protected from every careless word or thoughtless deed. You can, however, refuse to permit the imperfections of others to interfere with your service to Jehovah. If someone has hurt your feelings, you may find it helpful to consider how Hannah, the mother of Samuel, handled a discouraging situation.
Hannah desperately wanted children, but she was barren. Her husband's second wide, Peninnah, had already borne him sons and daughters. Instead of being sensitive to Hannah's plight, Peninnah viewed her a a rival and displayed such an attitude toward her that Hannah "would weep and not eat." -1 Samuel 1:2, 4-7.
One day Hannah went up to the Tabernacle to pray. Eli, the high priest of Israel, observed her lips moving. Not realizing that Hannah was praying. Eli concluded that she must be drunk. "How long will you behave drunk?" He demanded. "Put away your wine from upon you." (1 Samuel 1:12-14) Can you imagine how Hannah must have felt? She had come to the tabernacle to find encouragement. She certainly did not expect to be wrongly accused by one of the most influential men in Israel!
The stage was set for Hannah to become very discouraged. She could have left the tabernacle abruptly, vowing never to return as long as Eli was serving there as high priest. However, Hannah clearly valued her relationship with Jehovah. She knew that he would not be pleased if she took such a course. The tabernacle was the center of pure worship. Jehovah had placed his name there. And imperfect as he was, Eli was Jehovah's chosen representative.
Hannah's godly response to Eli's accusation provides a sterling example for us today. She did not allow herself to be wrongly accused, but she responded in a very respectful manner. "No, my lord!" She replied. "A woman hard pressed in spirit I am; and wine and intoxicating liquor I have not drunk, but I pour out my soul before Jehovah. Do not make you slave girl like a good-for-nothing woman, for it is out of the abundance of my concern and my vexation that I have spoken until now." -1 Samuel 1:15, 16.
Did Hannah make her point? Definitely. Yet, she spoke tactfully to Eli, not presuming to criticize him for his false accusation. He, in responded kindly to her, saying: "Go in peace and may the God of Israel grant your petition that you have asked of him." Once the matter was settled, Hannah proceeded to go on her way and to eat, and her face became self-concerned no more." -1 Samuel 1:17, 18.
What do we learn from this account? Hannah acted quickly to correct a misunderstanding, but she did so with deep respect. As a result, she preserved a fine relationship with Jehovah and with Eli. How often good communication and a little tact can prevent small problems from growing into larger ones!
If must be recognized that settling differences with others requires humility and flexibility on both sides. If a fellow believer fails to respond to your efforts to respond to your efforts to resolve a difference, you may have to leave the matter in Jehovah's hands, trusting that he will handle it in his own time and in his own way.
Next time: Have You Lost a Service Privilege?
Watchtower, 2001
You cannot expect to be protected from every careless word or thoughtless deed. You can, however, refuse to permit the imperfections of others to interfere with your service to Jehovah. If someone has hurt your feelings, you may find it helpful to consider how Hannah, the mother of Samuel, handled a discouraging situation.
Hannah desperately wanted children, but she was barren. Her husband's second wide, Peninnah, had already borne him sons and daughters. Instead of being sensitive to Hannah's plight, Peninnah viewed her a a rival and displayed such an attitude toward her that Hannah "would weep and not eat." -1 Samuel 1:2, 4-7.
One day Hannah went up to the Tabernacle to pray. Eli, the high priest of Israel, observed her lips moving. Not realizing that Hannah was praying. Eli concluded that she must be drunk. "How long will you behave drunk?" He demanded. "Put away your wine from upon you." (1 Samuel 1:12-14) Can you imagine how Hannah must have felt? She had come to the tabernacle to find encouragement. She certainly did not expect to be wrongly accused by one of the most influential men in Israel!
The stage was set for Hannah to become very discouraged. She could have left the tabernacle abruptly, vowing never to return as long as Eli was serving there as high priest. However, Hannah clearly valued her relationship with Jehovah. She knew that he would not be pleased if she took such a course. The tabernacle was the center of pure worship. Jehovah had placed his name there. And imperfect as he was, Eli was Jehovah's chosen representative.
Hannah's godly response to Eli's accusation provides a sterling example for us today. She did not allow herself to be wrongly accused, but she responded in a very respectful manner. "No, my lord!" She replied. "A woman hard pressed in spirit I am; and wine and intoxicating liquor I have not drunk, but I pour out my soul before Jehovah. Do not make you slave girl like a good-for-nothing woman, for it is out of the abundance of my concern and my vexation that I have spoken until now." -1 Samuel 1:15, 16.
Did Hannah make her point? Definitely. Yet, she spoke tactfully to Eli, not presuming to criticize him for his false accusation. He, in responded kindly to her, saying: "Go in peace and may the God of Israel grant your petition that you have asked of him." Once the matter was settled, Hannah proceeded to go on her way and to eat, and her face became self-concerned no more." -1 Samuel 1:17, 18.
What do we learn from this account? Hannah acted quickly to correct a misunderstanding, but she did so with deep respect. As a result, she preserved a fine relationship with Jehovah and with Eli. How often good communication and a little tact can prevent small problems from growing into larger ones!
If must be recognized that settling differences with others requires humility and flexibility on both sides. If a fellow believer fails to respond to your efforts to respond to your efforts to resolve a difference, you may have to leave the matter in Jehovah's hands, trusting that he will handle it in his own time and in his own way.
Next time: Have You Lost a Service Privilege?
Watchtower, 2001
12.02.2010
ARE YOU LIVING UP TO YOUR DEDICATION?
Making Each Day Count
After giving counsel to wives, husbands, children, parents and slaves, Paul writes: "Whatever you are doing, work at it wholesouled as to Jehovah, and not to men, for you know that it is from Jehovah you will receive the due reward of the inheritance. Slave for the Master, Christ." (Colossians 3:23, 24) We are not serving to impress men by what we accomplish in Jehovah's service. We are trying to serve God by following the example of Jesus Christ. He carried out his relatively short ministry with a sense of urgency. -1 Peter 2:21.
The apostle Peter too demonstrated a sense of urgency. In his second letter, he warned that in the last days, there would be ridiculers-apostates and doubters-who, according to their own wishes, would raise questions about Christ's presence. However, Peter said: "Jehovah is not slow respecting his promise, as some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you because he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance. Yet Jehovah's day is certain to come. Therefore, we should make it our daily concern as to how certain and solid our faith in God's promise really is. -2 Peter 3:3, 4, 9, 10.
To live up to our dedication in a conscientious manner, we should use each day to Jehovah's praise. At the end of each day, can we look back on it and see how we contributed in some way to the sanctification of God's name and the proclamation of the Kingdom good news? Perhaps it was by our clean conduct, our upbuilding conversation, or our loving concern for family and friends. Did we use available opportunities to share our Christian hope with others? Have we helped someone to think seriously about God's promises? Let us accrue something positive in a spiritual sense each day, building, as it were, a healthy spiritual bank account. -Matthew 6:20; 1 Peter 2:12; 3:15; James 3:13.
Next time: Keep Your Vision Clear
Watchtower, 2001
After giving counsel to wives, husbands, children, parents and slaves, Paul writes: "Whatever you are doing, work at it wholesouled as to Jehovah, and not to men, for you know that it is from Jehovah you will receive the due reward of the inheritance. Slave for the Master, Christ." (Colossians 3:23, 24) We are not serving to impress men by what we accomplish in Jehovah's service. We are trying to serve God by following the example of Jesus Christ. He carried out his relatively short ministry with a sense of urgency. -1 Peter 2:21.
The apostle Peter too demonstrated a sense of urgency. In his second letter, he warned that in the last days, there would be ridiculers-apostates and doubters-who, according to their own wishes, would raise questions about Christ's presence. However, Peter said: "Jehovah is not slow respecting his promise, as some people consider slowness, but he is patient with you because he does not desire any to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance. Yet Jehovah's day is certain to come. Therefore, we should make it our daily concern as to how certain and solid our faith in God's promise really is. -2 Peter 3:3, 4, 9, 10.
To live up to our dedication in a conscientious manner, we should use each day to Jehovah's praise. At the end of each day, can we look back on it and see how we contributed in some way to the sanctification of God's name and the proclamation of the Kingdom good news? Perhaps it was by our clean conduct, our upbuilding conversation, or our loving concern for family and friends. Did we use available opportunities to share our Christian hope with others? Have we helped someone to think seriously about God's promises? Let us accrue something positive in a spiritual sense each day, building, as it were, a healthy spiritual bank account. -Matthew 6:20; 1 Peter 2:12; 3:15; James 3:13.
Next time: Keep Your Vision Clear
Watchtower, 2001
12.01.2010
ARE YOU LIVING UP TO YOUR DEDICATION?
Proper View of Our Dedication
How do we view our dedication to God to do his will? Is it the first thing in our life? Regardless of our circumstances, whether young or old, married or single, healthy or sick, we should strive to live up to our dedication, in accordance with our circumstances. One person's situation may allow him to serve in the full-time ministry as a pioneer, as a volunteer in a branch office of the Watchtower Society, as a missionary, or in the traveling ministry. Some parents, on the other hand, may have have their hands full, caring for the physical and spiritual needs of the family. Are their relatively few hours spent in the ministry each month worth any less in Jehovah's eyes than the many hours spent by a full-time servant? No. God never expects from us what we do not have. The apostle Paul stated this principle: 'If the readiness is there first, it is especially acceptable according to what a person has not according to what the person does not have." - 2 Corinthians 8:12.
In any case, our salvation depends, not on anything we might do, but on Jehovah's undeserved kindness through Christ Jesus, our Lord. Paul clearly explained: "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and it is a free gift that they are being declared righteous by his undeserved kindness through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Jesus." However, our works are proof of our active faith in God's promises. -Romans 3:23, 24; James 2:17, 18, 24.
There is no need for us to make comparisons with others in regard to our time in God's service, our placements of Bible literature, or the number of Bible studies we conduct. (Galatians 6:3, 4) Regardless of what we accomplish in the Christian ministry, all of us have to remember Jesus' humbling words: "So you, also, when You have done all the things assigned to you, say, 'We are good-for-nothing slaves. What we have done is what we ought to have done.' " (Luke 17:10) How often can we really say that we have done "all the things assigned " to us? So the question is, what should be the quality of our service to God? - 2 Corinthians 10:17, 18.
Next time: Making Each Day Count
Watchtower, 2001
How do we view our dedication to God to do his will? Is it the first thing in our life? Regardless of our circumstances, whether young or old, married or single, healthy or sick, we should strive to live up to our dedication, in accordance with our circumstances. One person's situation may allow him to serve in the full-time ministry as a pioneer, as a volunteer in a branch office of the Watchtower Society, as a missionary, or in the traveling ministry. Some parents, on the other hand, may have have their hands full, caring for the physical and spiritual needs of the family. Are their relatively few hours spent in the ministry each month worth any less in Jehovah's eyes than the many hours spent by a full-time servant? No. God never expects from us what we do not have. The apostle Paul stated this principle: 'If the readiness is there first, it is especially acceptable according to what a person has not according to what the person does not have." - 2 Corinthians 8:12.
In any case, our salvation depends, not on anything we might do, but on Jehovah's undeserved kindness through Christ Jesus, our Lord. Paul clearly explained: "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and it is a free gift that they are being declared righteous by his undeserved kindness through the release by the ransom paid by Christ Jesus." However, our works are proof of our active faith in God's promises. -Romans 3:23, 24; James 2:17, 18, 24.
There is no need for us to make comparisons with others in regard to our time in God's service, our placements of Bible literature, or the number of Bible studies we conduct. (Galatians 6:3, 4) Regardless of what we accomplish in the Christian ministry, all of us have to remember Jesus' humbling words: "So you, also, when You have done all the things assigned to you, say, 'We are good-for-nothing slaves. What we have done is what we ought to have done.' " (Luke 17:10) How often can we really say that we have done "all the things assigned " to us? So the question is, what should be the quality of our service to God? - 2 Corinthians 10:17, 18.
Next time: Making Each Day Count
Watchtower, 2001
ARE YOU LIVING UP TO YOUR DEDICATION?
Modern Examples of Dedication
In modern times, thousands of thousands of faithful Christians have zealously stuck to their dedication in spite of not surviving to witness Armageddon. One such individual was Ernest E. Beavor of England. He became a Witness in 1939 at the beginning of World War II, and he gave up a flourishing press photography business in order to take up the full-time ministry. Because of maintaining his Christian neutrality, he went to prison for two years. His family stood by him and in 1950 his three children attended the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead for missionary training, in New York. Brother Beavor was so zealous in his preaching activity that friends called him Armageddon Ernie. He loyally lived up to his dedication, and right down to his death in 1986, he proclaimed the imminence of God's war of Armageddon. He did not view his dedication as a limited-time contract with God! -1 Corinthians 15:58.
Another example of undiminished zeal comes from Spain. During the Franco regime (1939-75), hundreds of dedicated young Witnesses took a stand as Christian neutrals. Many of them spent ten years or more in military prisons. One Witness, Jesus Martin, even accumulated sentences that amounted to 22 years in prison. He was severely beaten while being held in a military prison in North Africa. None of this was easy, but he refused to compromise.
Most of the time, these young men had no idea when, if ever, they would be released, for they were subject to multiple, consecutive sentences. Yet, they kept their integrity and maintained their zeal for the ministry while in captivity. When the situation finally began to improve in 1973, many of these Witnesses, then in their early 30's were released from prison and went straight into the full-time ministry, some becoming special pioneers and traveling overseers. They lived up to their dedication in prison, and most have continued to do so since their release. What about us today? Are we being faithful to our dedication like these loyal ones? -Hebrews 10:32-34; 13:3.
Next time: Proper View of Our Dedication
Watchtower, 2001
In modern times, thousands of thousands of faithful Christians have zealously stuck to their dedication in spite of not surviving to witness Armageddon. One such individual was Ernest E. Beavor of England. He became a Witness in 1939 at the beginning of World War II, and he gave up a flourishing press photography business in order to take up the full-time ministry. Because of maintaining his Christian neutrality, he went to prison for two years. His family stood by him and in 1950 his three children attended the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead for missionary training, in New York. Brother Beavor was so zealous in his preaching activity that friends called him Armageddon Ernie. He loyally lived up to his dedication, and right down to his death in 1986, he proclaimed the imminence of God's war of Armageddon. He did not view his dedication as a limited-time contract with God! -1 Corinthians 15:58.
Another example of undiminished zeal comes from Spain. During the Franco regime (1939-75), hundreds of dedicated young Witnesses took a stand as Christian neutrals. Many of them spent ten years or more in military prisons. One Witness, Jesus Martin, even accumulated sentences that amounted to 22 years in prison. He was severely beaten while being held in a military prison in North Africa. None of this was easy, but he refused to compromise.
Most of the time, these young men had no idea when, if ever, they would be released, for they were subject to multiple, consecutive sentences. Yet, they kept their integrity and maintained their zeal for the ministry while in captivity. When the situation finally began to improve in 1973, many of these Witnesses, then in their early 30's were released from prison and went straight into the full-time ministry, some becoming special pioneers and traveling overseers. They lived up to their dedication in prison, and most have continued to do so since their release. What about us today? Are we being faithful to our dedication like these loyal ones? -Hebrews 10:32-34; 13:3.
Next time: Proper View of Our Dedication
Watchtower, 2001
11.30.2010
ARE YOU LIVING UP TO YOUR DEDICATION?
They Did Not Renounce Their Dedication
Jeremiah's prophetic ministry in Jerusalem spanned more than 40 years(647-607 B.C.E.), and it was no easy assignment. He was very aware of his limitations. (Jeremiah 1:2-6) He needed courage and endurance to face the hardheaded people of Judah on a daily basis. (Jeremiah 18:18; 38:4-6) However, Jeremiah trusted in Jehovah God, who strenghtened him so that he proved to be a truly dedicated servant of God. -Jeremiah 1:18, 19.
What about the faithful apostle John, who was exiled to the inhospitable island of Patmos in his old age for "speaking about God and bearing witness to Jesus"? (Revelation 1:9) He endured and kept true to his dedicated status as a Christian for about 60 years. He lived beyond the destruction of Jerusalem at the hands of the Roman armies. he was privileged to write a Gospel, three inspired letters, and the book of Revelation, in which he foresaw the war of Armageddon. Did he quit when he learned that Armageddon would not come in his lifetime? Did he slump into apathy? No, John remained faithful to his death, knowing that although 'the appointed time was near,' the fulfillment of his visions was for a later date. -Revelation 1:3; Daniel 12:4.
Next time: Modern Examples of Dedication
Watchtower, 2001
Jeremiah's prophetic ministry in Jerusalem spanned more than 40 years(647-607 B.C.E.), and it was no easy assignment. He was very aware of his limitations. (Jeremiah 1:2-6) He needed courage and endurance to face the hardheaded people of Judah on a daily basis. (Jeremiah 18:18; 38:4-6) However, Jeremiah trusted in Jehovah God, who strenghtened him so that he proved to be a truly dedicated servant of God. -Jeremiah 1:18, 19.
What about the faithful apostle John, who was exiled to the inhospitable island of Patmos in his old age for "speaking about God and bearing witness to Jesus"? (Revelation 1:9) He endured and kept true to his dedicated status as a Christian for about 60 years. He lived beyond the destruction of Jerusalem at the hands of the Roman armies. he was privileged to write a Gospel, three inspired letters, and the book of Revelation, in which he foresaw the war of Armageddon. Did he quit when he learned that Armageddon would not come in his lifetime? Did he slump into apathy? No, John remained faithful to his death, knowing that although 'the appointed time was near,' the fulfillment of his visions was for a later date. -Revelation 1:3; Daniel 12:4.
Next time: Modern Examples of Dedication
Watchtower, 2001
11.29.2010
HAVE YOU MADE THE TRUTH YOUR OWN?
Our Name Not Merely a Label
If we make the truth our own, we will seek to share it with others on every suitable occasion. This does not mean that we will try to force it on those who show no interest. (Matthew 7:6) Rather, we will not be timid about identifying ourselves as Jehovah's Witnesses. If a person shows a glimmer of interest by raising a sincere question or by accepting a Bible publication, we will be ready and prepared to share our hope. Of course, this would recommend that we always have some form of literature with us no matter where we may be - at home, at work, at school, at the store, or at places of recreation. - 1 Peter3:15.
When we clearly identify ourselves as Christian, we strengthen our defense against Satan's insidious attack is. If there is a birthday or Christmas party or an office lottery, fellow workers will often say, "Don't bother with her, she is one of Jehovah's Witnesses." For the same reason, people may be less inclined to recount lewd jokes in our presence. Thus, our making known our Christian stand is a positive force in our life, even as the apostle Peter pointed out: "Indeed, who is the man that will harm you if you become zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are happy." -1Peter 3:13, 14.
Another benefit of making the truth our own is that we will be convince that these are indeed the last days of this system of things. We will know that many of the Bible's prophecies are reaching their culmination in our time. Paul's warning that "in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here" Is amply confirmed by the horrifying events of the past century. (2 Timothy 3:1-5; Mark 13:3-37) A recent newspaper article regarding the 20th century was entitled "It Will Be Remembered as the Age of Barbarism." The article stated: "1999 turned out to be the most murderous year in the second half of the most murderous century."
Now is not the time to vacillate. Jehovah's blessing is clearly evident on the greatest Bible educational work that has ever been done in all the world as a witness to the nations. (Matthew 24:14) Make the truth you own, and share it with others. Your everlasting future depends on what you do now. Slacking the hand will not merit Jehovah's blessing. (Luke 9:62) Rather, it is the time to "become steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord knowing that your labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord." -Corinthians 15:58.
Next time: ARE YOU LIVING UP TO YOUR DEDICATION?
Watchtower, 2001
If we make the truth our own, we will seek to share it with others on every suitable occasion. This does not mean that we will try to force it on those who show no interest. (Matthew 7:6) Rather, we will not be timid about identifying ourselves as Jehovah's Witnesses. If a person shows a glimmer of interest by raising a sincere question or by accepting a Bible publication, we will be ready and prepared to share our hope. Of course, this would recommend that we always have some form of literature with us no matter where we may be - at home, at work, at school, at the store, or at places of recreation. - 1 Peter3:15.
When we clearly identify ourselves as Christian, we strengthen our defense against Satan's insidious attack is. If there is a birthday or Christmas party or an office lottery, fellow workers will often say, "Don't bother with her, she is one of Jehovah's Witnesses." For the same reason, people may be less inclined to recount lewd jokes in our presence. Thus, our making known our Christian stand is a positive force in our life, even as the apostle Peter pointed out: "Indeed, who is the man that will harm you if you become zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are happy." -1Peter 3:13, 14.
Another benefit of making the truth our own is that we will be convince that these are indeed the last days of this system of things. We will know that many of the Bible's prophecies are reaching their culmination in our time. Paul's warning that "in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here" Is amply confirmed by the horrifying events of the past century. (2 Timothy 3:1-5; Mark 13:3-37) A recent newspaper article regarding the 20th century was entitled "It Will Be Remembered as the Age of Barbarism." The article stated: "1999 turned out to be the most murderous year in the second half of the most murderous century."
Now is not the time to vacillate. Jehovah's blessing is clearly evident on the greatest Bible educational work that has ever been done in all the world as a witness to the nations. (Matthew 24:14) Make the truth you own, and share it with others. Your everlasting future depends on what you do now. Slacking the hand will not merit Jehovah's blessing. (Luke 9:62) Rather, it is the time to "become steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord knowing that your labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord." -Corinthians 15:58.
Next time: ARE YOU LIVING UP TO YOUR DEDICATION?
Watchtower, 2001
11.27.2010
HAVE YOU MADE THE TRUTH YOUR OWN?
What if Doubts Linger?
What if we do find ourselves in a tunnel of doubts? What should we do then? Wise King Solomon provides the answer: "My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure up my commandments with yourself, so as to pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment; if, moreover, you call out for understanding itself and you give forth your voice for discernment itself, it you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God." -Proverbs 2:1-5.
Is that not a staggering thought? If we are willing to pay earnest attention to God's wisdom, we will "find the very knowledge of God." Yes, the knowledge of the Sovereign Lord of the universe is within our reach if we are willing to receive and treasure his sayings. That means turning to Jehovah in prayer and through personal study. The hidden treasure of his Word can help dispel any doubts and help us see the light of truth.
A clear example of how prayer helped a fearful and doubting servant of God is found at 2 Kings 6:11-18. Elisha's attendant lacked spiritual perception. He could not perceive that heavenly hosts were there to support God's prophet, who was under siege by the Syrian army. In fear the attendant cried out: "Alas, my master! What shall we do?" How did Elisha respond? "Do not be afraid, for there are more who are with us than those who are with them." But how was the attendant to be convinced? He could not see the heavenly hosts.
"Elisha began to pray and say: 'O Jehovah, open his eyes, please, that he may see. Immediately Jehovah opened the attendant's eyes, so that he saw; and look! the mountainous region was full of horses and war chariots of fire all around Elisha." In that case Jehovah caused the attendant to see the heavenly armies that were protecting Elisha. We should not expect the same kind of divine help today, however. Remember, that attendant of the prophet did not have the complete Bible to study in order to strengthen his faith. We do have the Bible. If we put it to good use, our faith can similarly be strengthened. For example, we might ponder the several accounts that describe Jehovah in his heavenly court. These leave no room for doubt that Jehovah does have a heavenly organization supporting his servants in the worldwide educational work today. -Isaiah 6:1-4; Ezekiel 1:4-28; Daniel 7:9, 10; Revelation 4:1-11; 14:6, 7.
Next time: Beware of Satan's Machinations
Watchtower, 2001
What if we do find ourselves in a tunnel of doubts? What should we do then? Wise King Solomon provides the answer: "My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure up my commandments with yourself, so as to pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment; if, moreover, you call out for understanding itself and you give forth your voice for discernment itself, it you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God." -Proverbs 2:1-5.
Is that not a staggering thought? If we are willing to pay earnest attention to God's wisdom, we will "find the very knowledge of God." Yes, the knowledge of the Sovereign Lord of the universe is within our reach if we are willing to receive and treasure his sayings. That means turning to Jehovah in prayer and through personal study. The hidden treasure of his Word can help dispel any doubts and help us see the light of truth.
A clear example of how prayer helped a fearful and doubting servant of God is found at 2 Kings 6:11-18. Elisha's attendant lacked spiritual perception. He could not perceive that heavenly hosts were there to support God's prophet, who was under siege by the Syrian army. In fear the attendant cried out: "Alas, my master! What shall we do?" How did Elisha respond? "Do not be afraid, for there are more who are with us than those who are with them." But how was the attendant to be convinced? He could not see the heavenly hosts.
"Elisha began to pray and say: 'O Jehovah, open his eyes, please, that he may see. Immediately Jehovah opened the attendant's eyes, so that he saw; and look! the mountainous region was full of horses and war chariots of fire all around Elisha." In that case Jehovah caused the attendant to see the heavenly armies that were protecting Elisha. We should not expect the same kind of divine help today, however. Remember, that attendant of the prophet did not have the complete Bible to study in order to strengthen his faith. We do have the Bible. If we put it to good use, our faith can similarly be strengthened. For example, we might ponder the several accounts that describe Jehovah in his heavenly court. These leave no room for doubt that Jehovah does have a heavenly organization supporting his servants in the worldwide educational work today. -Isaiah 6:1-4; Ezekiel 1:4-28; Daniel 7:9, 10; Revelation 4:1-11; 14:6, 7.
Next time: Beware of Satan's Machinations
Watchtower, 2001
11.26.2010
HAVE YOU MADE THE TRUTH YOUR OWN?
Satan's Crafty Tactics
One ploy that Satan uses is to plant doubts in our mind. He looks for weaknesses in our spiritual armor. In the very beginning, he used that tactic with Eve, asking: "Is it really so that God said you must not eat from every tree of the garden?" (Genesis 3
:1) In other words, Satan was saying: 'is it really possible that God could have placed such a prohibition on you? Would he hold back something so good from you? Why, God knows that in the very day of your eating from the tree your eyes are bound to be like God, knowing good and bad!' Satan planted a seed of doubt and waited for it to germinate. -Genesis 3:5.
How does Satan use this tactic today? If we neglect our Bible reading, our personal study, our prayers and our Christian ministry and meetings, we may leave ourselves open to doubts raised by others. For example: "How do we know that this is the truth as Jesus taught it?" "Are these really the last days? After all, we are already in the 21st century." "Are we on the threshold of Armageddon, or is it a long way off?" If such doubts should arise, what can we do to remove them?
James gave practical counsel when he wrote: ,"If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching; and it will be given him. But let him keep on asking in faith, not doubting at all, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven by the wind and blown about. In fact, let not the man suppose that he will receive anything from Jehovah; he is an indecisive man, unsteady in all his ways." -James 1:5-8.
What, then, must we do? We should "keep on asking God" in prayer for faith and understanding and bolster our efforts in personal study regarding any questions or doubts. We can also ask for help from those who are strong in the faith, never doubting that Jehovah will give us the support we need. James also said: "Subject yourselves, therefore, to Go; but oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw close to God,and he will draw close to you." Yes, our doubts will dissipate as we draw close to God, through study and prayer. -James 4:7, 8.
Take, for example, the question: How do we know that we are practicing the form of worship that Jesus taught? To answer this, what criteria must be considered? The Bible points out that authentic Christians must have true love among themselves. (John 13:34, 35) They must sanctify God's name, Jehovah. (Isaiah 12:4, 5; Matthew 6:9) And they must make known that name. -Exodus 3:15; John 17:26.
Another identifying feature of true worship is respect for God's Word, the Bible. It is the unique book that reveals God's personality and his purposes. (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17) Additionally, true Christians proclaim the Kingdom of God as man's only hope for everlasting life on a paradise earth. (Mark 13:10; Revelation 21:1-4) They keep separate from this world's corrupt politics and its defiling way of life. (John 15;19; James 1:27; 4:4) Who today have really met these criteria? The facts establish that there is only one answer -Jehovah's Witnesses.
Next time: What if Doubts Linger?
Watchtower, 2001
One ploy that Satan uses is to plant doubts in our mind. He looks for weaknesses in our spiritual armor. In the very beginning, he used that tactic with Eve, asking: "Is it really so that God said you must not eat from every tree of the garden?" (Genesis 3
:1) In other words, Satan was saying: 'is it really possible that God could have placed such a prohibition on you? Would he hold back something so good from you? Why, God knows that in the very day of your eating from the tree your eyes are bound to be like God, knowing good and bad!' Satan planted a seed of doubt and waited for it to germinate. -Genesis 3:5.
How does Satan use this tactic today? If we neglect our Bible reading, our personal study, our prayers and our Christian ministry and meetings, we may leave ourselves open to doubts raised by others. For example: "How do we know that this is the truth as Jesus taught it?" "Are these really the last days? After all, we are already in the 21st century." "Are we on the threshold of Armageddon, or is it a long way off?" If such doubts should arise, what can we do to remove them?
James gave practical counsel when he wrote: ,"If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching; and it will be given him. But let him keep on asking in faith, not doubting at all, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven by the wind and blown about. In fact, let not the man suppose that he will receive anything from Jehovah; he is an indecisive man, unsteady in all his ways." -James 1:5-8.
What, then, must we do? We should "keep on asking God" in prayer for faith and understanding and bolster our efforts in personal study regarding any questions or doubts. We can also ask for help from those who are strong in the faith, never doubting that Jehovah will give us the support we need. James also said: "Subject yourselves, therefore, to Go; but oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw close to God,and he will draw close to you." Yes, our doubts will dissipate as we draw close to God, through study and prayer. -James 4:7, 8.
Take, for example, the question: How do we know that we are practicing the form of worship that Jesus taught? To answer this, what criteria must be considered? The Bible points out that authentic Christians must have true love among themselves. (John 13:34, 35) They must sanctify God's name, Jehovah. (Isaiah 12:4, 5; Matthew 6:9) And they must make known that name. -Exodus 3:15; John 17:26.
Another identifying feature of true worship is respect for God's Word, the Bible. It is the unique book that reveals God's personality and his purposes. (John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17) Additionally, true Christians proclaim the Kingdom of God as man's only hope for everlasting life on a paradise earth. (Mark 13:10; Revelation 21:1-4) They keep separate from this world's corrupt politics and its defiling way of life. (John 15;19; James 1:27; 4:4) Who today have really met these criteria? The facts establish that there is only one answer -Jehovah's Witnesses.
Next time: What if Doubts Linger?
Watchtower, 2001
HAVE YOU MADE THE TRUTH YOUR OWN?
TO BE a true Christian in these last days -these "critical times hard to deal with" -is not easy. ( 2 Timothy 3:1) The fact is that to follow Christ's example, one must conquer the world. ( 1 John 5:4) Recall what Jesus said about the Christian way: "Go in through the narrow gate; because broad and spacious is the road leading off into destruction, and many are the ones going through it; whereas narrow is the gate and cramped the road leading off into life, and few are the ones finding it." He also said: "If anyone wants to come after me, let him disown himself and pick up his torture stake day after day and follow me continually." - Matthew 7:13, 14; Luke 9:23.
Having found the cramped road to life, a Christian's next challenge is to stay on it. Why is that a challenge? It is because our dedication and baptism makes us a target of Satan's crafty acts, or subtle machinations. (Ephesians 6:11; ) He takes note of our weaknesses and seeks to exploit them in an effort to subvert our spirituality. After all, he attempted to break down Jesus, so why should he leave us alone? -Matthew 4:1-11.
Next time: Satan's Crafty Tactics
Watchtower, 2001
Having found the cramped road to life, a Christian's next challenge is to stay on it. Why is that a challenge? It is because our dedication and baptism makes us a target of Satan's crafty acts, or subtle machinations. (Ephesians 6:11; ) He takes note of our weaknesses and seeks to exploit them in an effort to subvert our spirituality. After all, he attempted to break down Jesus, so why should he leave us alone? -Matthew 4:1-11.
Next time: Satan's Crafty Tactics
Watchtower, 2001
11.25.2010
LIving With Risks-Finding Security in a Risk-Filled World
When Wisdom Alone Will Protect Us
True wisdom will soon 'preserve alive its owners' in an unprecedented way - protection through the fast-approaching "great tribulation," when God destroys the wicked. (Matthew 24:21) At that time people will be throwing their money into the streets as "an abhorrent thing," according to the Bible. Why? Because they will have learned the hard way that gold and silver will not buy them life during the day of Jehovah's fury." (Ezekiel 7:19) On the other hand, "a great crowd," who prudently 'stored up their treasures in heaven' by putting spiritual interests first in their life, will benefit from their sure investment and gain eternal life in a paradise earth. -Revelation 7:9, 14; 21:3, 4; Matthew 6:19, 20.
How can we gain the secure future? Jesus answers: "This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ." (John17:3) Millions have found this knowledge in God's Word,the Bible. Not only do such ones have a wonderful hope for the future but they also experience a measure of peace and security now. It is just as the psalmist expressed: "In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for you yourself alone, O Jehovah, make me dwell in security." -Psalm 4:8.
Can you think of any other source of information that can help reduce risks to your health and life to the extent that the Bible does? No other book has the Bible's authority and no other book can help you find true security in today's risk-filled world. Why not examine it further?
Next time:HAVE YOU MADE THE TRUTH YOUR OWN?
Watchtower, 2001
True wisdom will soon 'preserve alive its owners' in an unprecedented way - protection through the fast-approaching "great tribulation," when God destroys the wicked. (Matthew 24:21) At that time people will be throwing their money into the streets as "an abhorrent thing," according to the Bible. Why? Because they will have learned the hard way that gold and silver will not buy them life during the day of Jehovah's fury." (Ezekiel 7:19) On the other hand, "a great crowd," who prudently 'stored up their treasures in heaven' by putting spiritual interests first in their life, will benefit from their sure investment and gain eternal life in a paradise earth. -Revelation 7:9, 14; 21:3, 4; Matthew 6:19, 20.
How can we gain the secure future? Jesus answers: "This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ." (John17:3) Millions have found this knowledge in God's Word,the Bible. Not only do such ones have a wonderful hope for the future but they also experience a measure of peace and security now. It is just as the psalmist expressed: "In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for you yourself alone, O Jehovah, make me dwell in security." -Psalm 4:8.
Can you think of any other source of information that can help reduce risks to your health and life to the extent that the Bible does? No other book has the Bible's authority and no other book can help you find true security in today's risk-filled world. Why not examine it further?
Next time:HAVE YOU MADE THE TRUTH YOUR OWN?
Watchtower, 2001
LIving With Risks-Finding Security in a Risk-Filled World
Better Health And Security-Thanks to the Bible
To escape from life's realities, a young woman name Jane habitually used marijuana, tobacco, cocaine, amphetamines, LSD and other drugs. She also drank heavily. According to Jane, her husband was in no better shape. Their future looked grim. Then Jane came in contact with Jehovah's Witnesses. She began attending Christian meetings and reading the Watchtower and its companion magazine, Awake! which she shared with her husband. They both started to study the BIBLE with the Jehovah's Witnesses. As they developed an appreciation for Jehovah's high standards, they quit all substance abuse. The result? Our new life has brought us so much joy," Jane wrote some years later. "I am so grateful to Jehovah for the cleansing power of his Word and for the free and healthy life that we are now able to lead."
The value of being an honest employee is well illustrated by the case of Kurt, whose work involved caring for computer systems. New equipment was needed , and Kurt's employer entrusted him with the task of getting it at a good price . Kurt located a suitable supplier, and a price was agreed upon. However, the supplier's clerk made an error on the written quotation, so that the price was lowered by almost $40,000 (U.S.). Noting the mistake, Kurt called the company, and the manager said that in his 25-year career, he had never seen such honesty. Kurt explained that his conscience was molded by the Bible. The result was the manager asked for 300 copies of an issue of Awake! That dealt with honesty in business so that he could give them to his fellow workers. As for Kurt, his honesty led to a promotion.
Next time: When Wisdom Alone Will Protect Us
Watchtower, 2001
To escape from life's realities, a young woman name Jane habitually used marijuana, tobacco, cocaine, amphetamines, LSD and other drugs. She also drank heavily. According to Jane, her husband was in no better shape. Their future looked grim. Then Jane came in contact with Jehovah's Witnesses. She began attending Christian meetings and reading the Watchtower and its companion magazine, Awake! which she shared with her husband. They both started to study the BIBLE with the Jehovah's Witnesses. As they developed an appreciation for Jehovah's high standards, they quit all substance abuse. The result? Our new life has brought us so much joy," Jane wrote some years later. "I am so grateful to Jehovah for the cleansing power of his Word and for the free and healthy life that we are now able to lead."
The value of being an honest employee is well illustrated by the case of Kurt, whose work involved caring for computer systems. New equipment was needed , and Kurt's employer entrusted him with the task of getting it at a good price . Kurt located a suitable supplier, and a price was agreed upon. However, the supplier's clerk made an error on the written quotation, so that the price was lowered by almost $40,000 (U.S.). Noting the mistake, Kurt called the company, and the manager said that in his 25-year career, he had never seen such honesty. Kurt explained that his conscience was molded by the Bible. The result was the manager asked for 300 copies of an issue of Awake! That dealt with honesty in business so that he could give them to his fellow workers. As for Kurt, his honesty led to a promotion.
Next time: When Wisdom Alone Will Protect Us
Watchtower, 2001
11.24.2010
LIving With Risks-Finding Security in a Risk-Filled World
The Snare of the Love of Money
In an effort to get rich quickly, many people take big risks with their money. Sadly, taking such risks often leads to financial loss or ruin. To the servant of God, however, the Bible says: "Let him do hard work doing with his hands what is good work, that he may have something to distribute to someone in need." (Ephesians 4:28) True, the hard worker may not always become wealthy. Yet, he has peace of mind, self-respect and perhaps even funds that he can donate to a worth cause.
The Bible warns: "Those who are determined to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and hurtful desires, which plunge men into destruction and ruin. For the love of money is a root to all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have . . . stabbed themselves all over with many pains." ( 1 Timothy 6:9, 10) There is no denying that many "who are determined to be rich" do get rich, but at what cost? Is it not true that their health, family, spirituality, and even the quality of their sleep suffer? -Ecclesiastes 5:12.
A wise person realizes that "life does not result from the things he possess." (Luke 12:15) Money and some possessions are necessary in most societies. In fact, the Bible states that "the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom itself preserves alive its owners." (Ecclesiastes 7:12) Unlike, money, the right knowledge and wisdom can help us in all circumstances, but especially in matters affecting our life. -Proverbs 4:5-9.
Next time: Better Health and Security-Thanks to the Bible
Watchtower, 2001
In an effort to get rich quickly, many people take big risks with their money. Sadly, taking such risks often leads to financial loss or ruin. To the servant of God, however, the Bible says: "Let him do hard work doing with his hands what is good work, that he may have something to distribute to someone in need." (Ephesians 4:28) True, the hard worker may not always become wealthy. Yet, he has peace of mind, self-respect and perhaps even funds that he can donate to a worth cause.
The Bible warns: "Those who are determined to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and hurtful desires, which plunge men into destruction and ruin. For the love of money is a root to all sorts of injurious things, and by reaching out for this love some have . . . stabbed themselves all over with many pains." ( 1 Timothy 6:9, 10) There is no denying that many "who are determined to be rich" do get rich, but at what cost? Is it not true that their health, family, spirituality, and even the quality of their sleep suffer? -Ecclesiastes 5:12.
A wise person realizes that "life does not result from the things he possess." (Luke 12:15) Money and some possessions are necessary in most societies. In fact, the Bible states that "the advantage of knowledge is that wisdom itself preserves alive its owners." (Ecclesiastes 7:12) Unlike, money, the right knowledge and wisdom can help us in all circumstances, but especially in matters affecting our life. -Proverbs 4:5-9.
Next time: Better Health and Security-Thanks to the Bible
Watchtower, 2001
LIving With Risks-Finding Security in a Risk-Filled World
Bitter Consequences of Immorality
Today, millions have abandoned all moral restraint. The AIDS epidemic is one of the consequences. According to WHO, over 16 million have died since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, and at present, about 34 million are infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Many AIDS sufferers contracted the disease through promiscuous sexual activity, contaminated syringes used by drug addicts, or tainted blood transfusions. Other consequences of loose morals include herpes, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis. Although such medical terms were not used in Bible times, the target organs of certain sexually transmitted diseases common at the time were known. For example, Proverbs 7:23 describes the fearsome consequence of fornication as 'an arrow cleaving open the liver,' as does hepatitis. Yes, how timely and loving is the Bible's counsel that Christians 'abstain from blood and from fornication'! -Acts 15:28,, 29.
Next time: The Snare of the Love of Money
Watchtower, 2001
Today, millions have abandoned all moral restraint. The AIDS epidemic is one of the consequences. According to WHO, over 16 million have died since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, and at present, about 34 million are infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Many AIDS sufferers contracted the disease through promiscuous sexual activity, contaminated syringes used by drug addicts, or tainted blood transfusions. Other consequences of loose morals include herpes, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis. Although such medical terms were not used in Bible times, the target organs of certain sexually transmitted diseases common at the time were known. For example, Proverbs 7:23 describes the fearsome consequence of fornication as 'an arrow cleaving open the liver,' as does hepatitis. Yes, how timely and loving is the Bible's counsel that Christians 'abstain from blood and from fornication'! -Acts 15:28,, 29.
Next time: The Snare of the Love of Money
Watchtower, 2001
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