Where Can You Turn for Good Advice?

The Bible Meets Our Needs

Yes, by following the Bible's direction to meet together regularly, we can have Jehovah fill our need for encouragement. Here is where we experience the truthfulness of psalmist words: "God is for us a refuge and strength, a help that is readily to be found during distresses." -Psalm 46:1.

For Satisfying and Worthwhile Work. "Being 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," advocates the Bible. 1 Corinthians 15:58) is "the work of the Lord truly satisfying? Does the Christian ministry accomplish something worthwhile? Amelia expresses how she feels: "I studied the Bible with a couple who were on the verge of a breakup. I also helped a woman whose daughter was violently killed. The woman was tormented by the uncertainty of the condition of the dead. In both of these cases, the application of the Bible principles brought peace and hope into their lives. I feel a great sense of joy and Satisfaction because I have had a part in helping them." Scott says: "If you have a good experience in the field ministry, start a new Bible study, or enjoy some success from witnessing informally, you will talk about it for years to come. The same feelings and excitement are relived with each recounting! The ministry is where the greatest and lasting joy comes from."

Clearly, applying the Bible's direction to become active ministers has filled the need of these individuals for satisfying and worthwhile work. You too are invited to share in this work of educating others about God's ways and principles at the same time benefiting yourself. - Isaiah 48:17; Matthew 28:19, 20.

Next time: Profiting From God's Word

Watchtower, 2000

Where Can You Turn for Good Advice?

The Bible Meets Our Needs . . .

In Coping With Anxieties, the Bible tells us: "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6, 7) Has prayer proved to be effective in coping with the emotional anxieties associated with economic hardship, sexual and verbal abuse, or the death of a loved one? Consider the following experience.

Jackie, after learning of the sexual abuse of her daughter, acknowledges; "The feeling of guilt at being powerless to protect one's child is beyond words. I have had to fight feeling of bitterness, resentment and anger. These feelings were beginning to poison my life. I desperately needed Jehovah to guard my heart." After reading and rereading Philippians 4:6, 7), she worked hard to apply its counsel. "I pray everyday, repeatedly asking that I not let myself be destroyed by negative feelings, and Jehovah has helped me to develop a calm and happy heart. I truly feel peace within myself," Jackie relates.

You too may find yourself in a situation that is beyond your ability to control or resolve and that brings with it emotional anxieties. By following the Bible's admonition to pray, you can cope effectively. the psalmist encourages us with these words: "Roll upon Jehovah your way, and rely upon him, and he himself will act." -Psalm 37:5.

For Encouragement. The psalmist made this expression of appreciation: "Jehovah, I have loved the dwelling of your house and the place of the residing of your glory. My own foot I certainly stand on a level place; among the congregated throngs I shall bless Jehovah." (Psalm 26:8, 12) We are encouraged in the Bible to assemble together regularly to worship Jehovah. How can this association fill your needs? What have others found?

Becky relates: "My parents do not serve Jehovah,so they give me a hard time when I try to do anything that has to do with service to God. It takes great effort for me to attend the meetings." Becky feels that many blessings have come to her because she has exerted herself to attend Christian meetings regularly. "The meetings strengthen my faith, so that I can withstand the day-to-day pressures as a student, daughter and servant of Jehovah. The people at the Kingdom Hall are so different from the students at school! They are caring and helpful, and our conversations are always encouraging. They are real friends."

Next time: Continue with The Bible Meets Our Needs . . .

Watchtower, 2000