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YOUNG PEOPLE ASK What Should I Know About Smoking and Vaping?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/500600125	YOUNG PEOPLE ASK What Should I Know About Smoking and Vaping? “Where I live, it’s rare to meet someone under the age of 25 who hasn’t ever smoked or vaped.”—Julia. In this article What you should know What you can do What about marijuana? What your peers say What you should know Cigarettes are deadly. Nicotine—the main agent in tobacco—is a toxic substance that is highly addictive. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “tobacco use is a major preventable cause of premature death and disease worldwide.” “I work in the medical field as a sonographer, and I have seen ultrasound images showing the impact that smoking has on patients. The amount of plaque buildup in the arteries of former smokers is astounding. I respect my body too much to try smoking.”—Theresa. Did you know? Cigarettes contain some 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic. Each year, millions of people die from tobacco-related illnesses. Vaping exposes the user to toxic chemicals. Vaping, or using vape pens or electronic cigarettes, has been instructioned to lung injury and death. Also, like cigarettes, many vape products contain nicotine. Because it is highly addictive, nicotine can “prime young brains for addiction to other drugs,” says a fact sheet on e-cigarettes. “Vape products with names such as cotton candy and cherry bomb have sweet flavors, which especially appeal to children and teenagers. The taste makes them ignore the risk.”—Miranda. Did you know? The vapor from e-cigarettes is not just water. It contains particles of harmful substances—often including heavy metals—which are transferred to your lungs. Risks associated with smoking and vaping (1) Impaired cognition as well as attention and mood problems, especially in developing brains (2) Inflamed gums as well as tooth cavities (3) Chronic lung inflammation and heart disease Worsening asthma Upset stomach and nausea What you can do Get informed. Don’t accept everything you hear—for example, that vaping is harmless or that it’s a good way to relieve stress. Do your own research, and make an informed decision. Bible principle: “The naive person believes every word, but the shrewd one ponders each step.”—Proverbs 14:15. “When you think about the negative effects of smoking and vaping, you see that more is involved than the ‘fun’ that celebrities or your peers seem to have while doing it.”—Evan. To think about: Are young people who smoke or vape really happier? Are they better prepared to face life’s stresses—both now and in the future? Or are they sowing the seeds for more problems? Find productive ways to deal with anxiety. Good ways to reduce anxiety include healthy activities, such as exercising, reading, or having a good time with friends who build you up. Because you have many good things to focus on, you won’t feel a need to smoke. Bible principle: “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good word cheers it up.”—Proverbs 12:25. “People think that smoking and vaping are stress relievers. But, at best, these things provide only temporary relief, and they have lasting bad effects. There are better ways to deal with stress.”—Angela. To think about: What are some ways that you can deal with stress effectively? If you need help, see the “Young People Ask” article “How Can I Deal With Anxiety?” Relying on an addictive substance to deal with anxiety is like jumping into the ocean to avoid rain; it will only add to your problems! Be prepared to handle peer pressure. It can come from your schoolmates or even through your entertainment. Movies, TV shows, and social media often make smoking and vaping seem cool and fun. Bible principle: “Mature people . . . have their powers of discernment trained to distinguish both right and wrong.”—Hebrews 5:14. “When I was at school, many of my peers respected me for not smoking or vaping. Once I made my stand clear, they even defended me. So, strange as it may seem, making your stand known can be a protection.”—Anna. To think about: How well can you resist peer pressure? Can you think of instances where you have done so? If you need help in this area, see the “Peer-Pressure Planner” in chapter 15 of Questions Young People Ask—Answers That Work, Volume 2. Choose your friends carefully. You will be less tempted to smoke or vape if your friends feel the same way you do about these practices. Bible principle: “Be friends with those who are wise, and you will become wise. Choose fools to be your friends, and you will have trouble.”—Proverbs 13:20, Easy-to-Read Version. “It really helps to be friends with people who have qualities like self-control and integrity. When you see how well things go for them, you are motivated to be like them.”—Calvin. To think about: Do your closest friends support your resolve to live a clean and healthy lifestyle, or do they tend to weaken it? What about marijuana? Many people say that marijuana is harmless. But that’s a lie! Young people who use marijuana risk becoming addicted to it. Studies suggest that marijuana use can permanently damage your brain, which may include reducing your IQ. According to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, “research shows that people who use marijuana are more likely to have relationship problems, worse educational outcomes, lower career achievement, and reduced life satisfaction.” “I was tempted to smoke marijuana, mostly because I wanted relief from my anxiety. But when I thought about the addiction that could come from it, the money I would have to spend on it, and the effects that it would have on my health, I realized that smoking marijuana would only make my anxiety worse.”—Judah. What your peers say “My parents did practice sessions with me, starting when I was very young. They showed me how to stand up to negative peer pressure. It totally prepared me and made me feel good about my beliefs.”—Olivia. “Each year, millions of people die from smoking. I would never want to be one of them just because I did something that appeared ‘cool’ or ‘popular.’”—Matthew.
What Is the Bible Study Course Offered by Jehovah’s Witnesses?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502012131	What Is the Bible Study Course Offered by Jehovah’s Witnesses? Jehovah’s Witnesses offer a practical way for you to learn what the Bible teaches. Our Bible study program can help you to: Have a happy life Become God’s friend Learn what the Bible promises for the future On this page What happens at a Bible study? Do I have to pay for the study? How long is the course? How do I start? Can I try out a study session first? If I accept a Bible study, will I be pressured to become one of Jehovah’s Witnesses? May I use my own Bible? May I invite others to join the study? What if I studied the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses in the past? May I study again? Do you offer options for Bible study without a personal instructor? What happens at a Bible study? A personal instructor will help you get acquainted with the Bible, topic by topic. Using the interactive Bible course Enjoy Life Forever! you will progressively learn the Bible’s message as well as how it can help you. To learn more, watch this video. Do I have to pay for the study? No. Jehovah’s Witnesses follow the direction that Jesus gave his disciples: “You received free, give free.” (Matthew 10:8) Additionally, there is no charge for the course materials, which include a copy of the Bible and the publication eninputd Enjoy Life Forever! How long is the course? The complete course consists of 60 lessons. The pace is up to you, but many students are comfortable covering one or more lessons per week. How do I start? 1. Fill out the online form. We will use the personal information you submit only to fulfill your request for one of Jehovah’s Witnesses to contact you. 2. An instructor will contact you. Your instructor will explain what you can expect in your interactive Bible course and will answer any questions you may have. 3. You and your instructor make the arrangements. The study can be in person or by telephone, video call, mail, or email. Study sessions typically last about an hour, but they can be shorter or longer to suit your schedule. Can I try out a study session first? Yes. To do so, fill out the online form. When an instructor contacts you, let him or her know that you wish to try out the study to see if you like it. He or she will use the brochure Enjoy Life Forever! which contains three introductory lessons, to help you see if you enjoy the study. If I accept a Bible study, will I be pressured to become one of Jehovah’s Witnesses? No. Jehovah’s Witnesses love teaching people about the Bible, but we never pressure anyone to join our religion. Rather, we respectfully present what the Bible says, recognizing that each person has the right to choose what he or she will believe.—1 Peter 3:15. May I use my own Bible? Yes, you may use any translation of the Bible that you wish. While we enjoy using the clear and accurate New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, we recognize that many people prefer using a translation that they are familiar with. May I invite others to join the study? Yes. You may include your entire family or any friends you choose to invite. What if I studied the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses in the past? May I study again? Yes. In fact, you may enjoy our current study course even more than before because it has been updated to meet people’s current needs. It is more visual and interactive than previous Bible study programs. Do you offer options for Bible study without a personal instructor? Yes. Although most students learn best with the help of an instructor, some prefer to study on their own at first. Our Bible Study Tools page lists free tools and resources that can help you in your study of the Bible. Here are tools you may find helpful: Bible Videos. These short video lessons explain essential Bible teachings. Bible Questions Answered. These articles provide answers to a wide range of Bible questions. Bible Verses Explained. Discover the meaning of popular Bible verses and phrases.
Scriptures for Christian Living (scl) 2023	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/scl	Pride Pride; haughtiness Ps 138:6; Pr 16:5, 18; Jas 4:6, 16 See also Pr 21:4 Relevant Bible account(s): Es 5:9-14; 7:9, 10—Proud Haman feels insulted by Mordecai’s refusal to bow to him, and ultimately, Haman’s pride leads to his execution Eze 28:11-15, 17, 19—Relying on his riches and strength, the king of Tyre becomes haughty and is later destroyed
“All Scripture” (si) 1990	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/all-scripture-si	Studies on the Inspired Scriptures and Their Background Study Number 1—A Visit to the Promised Land The regions of the land, its physical features, its mountains and valleys, its rivers and lakes, and its climate, soil, and varieties of vegetation. 1. (a) Why is the designation “Promised Land” most appropriate? (b) What glorious prospect may we have in mind as we examine the geography of the land? THE boundaries of the ancient Promised Land were set by Jehovah God. (Ex. 23:31; Num. 34:1-12; Josh. 1:4) For many centuries this area was referred to by some as the land of Palestine, a name derived from the Latin Palaestina and the Greek Pa·lai·stiʹne. This latter word is drawn from the Hebrew Peleʹsheth. In the Hebrew Scriptures, Peleʹsheth is translated “Philistia,” and it has reference just to the territory of the Philistines, who were enemies of God’s people. (Ex. 15:14) However, since Jehovah promised this land to faithful Abraham and his descendants, the designation “Promised Land,” or “Land of Promise,” is most appropriate. (Gen. 15:18; Deut. 9:27, 28; Heb. 11:9) This land is remarkable in the variety of its geography, wrapping up in this small area many of the distinct features and extremes that are to be found throughout the earth. If Jehovah could give as an inheritance to his ancient witnesses such a land of promise with all its beauteous variety, then certainly he can yet give to his dedicated worshipers a glorious new world paradise extending earth wide, with mountains, valleys, rivers, and lakes, to bring them delight. Let us now pay keen attention to the geographic features of the Land of Promise, as we visit on an imaginary tour.a GENERAL SIZE 2. In how much of the Promised Land did the Jews settle, and in what additional territory? 2 According to its God-given boundaries as stated at Numbers 34:1-12, the land promised to Israel was to be a thin strip of territory. It was to be about 300 miles [480 km] from north to south and about 35 miles [56 km] wide, on the average. It was not until the reigns of Kings David and Solomon that the entire area promised was occupied militarily, with the placing of many subject peoples under control. However, the portion actually settled by the Jews is generally described as that covering from Dan to Beer-sheba, which was a distance of about 150 miles [240 km] from north to south. (1 Ki. 4:25) The distance across the country from Mount Carmel to the Sea of Galilee is about 32 miles [51 km], and in the south where the Mediterranean shoreline curves gradually to the southwest, it is over 50 miles [80 km] from Gaza to the Dead Sea. This settled area west of the Jordan River contained only about 6,000 square miles [15,000 sq. km]. However, the Israelites additionally settled in lands to the east of the Jordan (lands not included in the original promised boundaries), to make the total of settled territory a little less than 10,000 square miles [26,000 sq. km]. NATURAL REGIONS 3. Using the map “Natural Regions of the Promised Land” with the paragraph, briefly identify the areas included in the following natural divisions of the land: (a) the plains west of the Jordan, (b) the mountainous regions west of the Jordan, (c) the mountains and tablelands east of the Jordan. 3 Our visit to the Promised Land will take us through the following natural divisions of the country. The outline below provides the key to the accompanying map, which shows the approximate boundaries of the areas discussed. Geographic Regions A. Seacoast of the Great Sea.—Josh. 15:12. B. The Plains West of the Jordan 1. Plain of Asher.—Judg. 5:17. 2. The Coastal Strip of Dor.—Josh. 12:23. 3. Pasture Grounds of Sharon.—1 Chron. 5:16. 4. Plain of Philistia.—Gen. 21:32; Ex. 13:17. 5. Central East-West Valley a. Plain of Megiddo (Esdraelon).—2 Chron. 35:22. b. Low Plain of Jezreel.—Judg. 6:33. C. The Mountainous Regions West of the Jordan 1. Hills of Galilee.—Josh. 20:7; Isa. 9:1. 2. Hills of Carmel.—1 Ki. 18:19, 20, 42. 3. Hills of Samaria.—Jer. 31:5; Amos 3:9. 4. Shephelah.—Josh. 11:2; Judg. 1:9. 5. The Hill Country of Judah.—Josh. 11:21. 6. Wilderness of Judah (Jeshimon).—Judg. 1:16; 1 Sam. 23:19. 7. Negeb.—Gen. 12:9; Num. 21:1. 8. Wilderness of Paran.—Gen. 21:21; Num. 13:1-3. D. The Great Arabah (the Rift Valley).—2 Sam. 2:29; Jer. 52:7. 1. Hula Basin 2. Region Around the Sea of Galilee.—Matt. 14:34; John 6:1. 3. District of the Jordan Valley (The Ghor).—1 Ki. 7:46; 2 Chron. 4:17; Luke 3:3. 4. The Salt (Dead) Sea (Sea of the Arabah).—Num. 34:3; Deut. 4:49; Josh. 3:16. 5. Arabah (southward from the Salt Sea).—Deut. 2:8. E. Mountains and Tablelands East of the Jordan. —Josh. 13:9, 16, 17, 21; 20:8. 1. Land of Bashan.—1 Chron. 5:11; Ps. 68:15. 2. Land of Gilead.—Josh. 22:9. 3. Land of Ammon and of Moab.—Josh. 13:25; 1 Chron. 19:2; Deut. 1:5. 4. Mountain Plateau of Edom.—Num. 21:4; Judg. 11:18. F. Mountains of Lebanon.—Josh. 13:5. A. SEACOAST OF THE GREAT SEA 4. What are the characteristics and climate of the seacoast? 4 Beginning our visit from the west, we view first the seacoast stretching along the beautiful, blue Mediterranean. Because of large stretches of sand dunes, the only good natural harbor below Mount Carmel is at Joppa; but north of Carmel there are several good natural harbors. The Phoenicians, who lived in the country along this part of the coast, became a famous seafaring people. The average annual temperature along the sunny seacoast is a pleasant 67° F. [19° C.], though the summers are very hot, with an average daytime temperature of about 93° F. [34° C.] in Gaza. B-1 PLAIN OF ASHER 5, 6. Describe briefly (a) the Plain of Asher, (b) the coastal strip of Dor. 5 This coastal plain stretches north from Mount Carmel for about 25 miles [40 km]. Its greatest width is about eight miles [13 km], and it is part of the land that was assigned to the tribe of Asher. (Josh. 19:24-30) It was a fertile strip of plain and produced well, supplying food for Solomon’s royal table.—Gen. 49:20; 1 Ki. 4:7, 16. B-2 THE COASTAL STRIP OF DOR 6 This strip of land borders the Carmel Range for about 20 miles [32 km]. It is only about two and a half miles [4 km] wide. It actually amounts to a coastal strip of land lying between Carmel and the Mediterranean. In its southern part, there is the harbor city of Dor, and to the south of this, the sand dunes begin. The hills behind Dor produced choice food for Solomon’s banquets. One of Solomon’s daughters was married to the deputy from this region.—1 Ki. 4:7, 11. B-3 PASTURE GROUNDS OF SHARON 7. (a) How is Sharon referred to in prophecy, and why? (b) In Hebrew times for what was this region used? 7 In view of the proverbial beauty of its flowers, it is appropriate that Sharon is mentioned in Isaiah’s prophetic vision of the restored land of Israel. (Isa. 35:2) This is a fertile, well-watered land. It is a plain that varies from 10 to 12 miles [16 to 19 km] in width, extending for about 40 miles [64 km] southward from the coastal strip of Dor. In Hebrew times oak forests grew in the northern part of Sharon. Many flocks grazed there after the grain was cut. It is for this reason that it was called the pasture grounds of Sharon. In King David’s time, the royal herds were kept in Sharon. (1 Chron. 27:29) Today extensive citrus groves are to be found in this area. B-4 PLAIN OF PHILISTIA 8. Where is the Plain of Philistia, and what are its features? 8 This section of land lies south of the pasture grounds of Sharon, extending some 50 miles [80 km] along the coast and about 15 miles [24 km] inland. (1 Ki. 4:21) The sand dunes along the shoreline penetrate sometimes as much as three and a half miles [6 km]. This is a rolling plain, which rises steppelike from 100 feet [30 m] to as much as 650 feet [200 m] behind Gaza in the south. The soil is rich; but rain is not very plentiful, and there is always the danger of drought. B-5 CENTRAL EAST-WEST VALLEY 9. (a) What two parts make up the central east-west valley, and of what practical value was it? (b) By using the diagrams of “Typical Cross Sections of the Promised Land,” describe the general topography of this area. 9 The central east-west valley is actually made up of two parts, the Valley Plain of Megiddo, or Esdraelon, to the west, and the Low Plain of Jezreel to the east. (2 Chron. 35:22; Judg. 6:33) This entire central valley offered easy cross-country travel from the Jordan rift valley to the Mediterranean Coast, and it became an important trade route. The Plain of Megiddo is drained by the torrent valley Kishon, which makes its way out through a narrow gap between Mount Carmel and the hills of Galilee into the Plain of Asher and from there to the Mediterranean. This modest watercourse all but dries up during the summer months, but at other times it wells up into a torrent.—Judg. 5:21. 10. (a) Describe the Low Plain of Jezreel. (b) With what Biblical events is this area associated? 10 The Low Plain of Jezreel drains southeasterly toward the Jordan. This valley corridor, the Plain of Jezreel, is about 2 miles [3.2 km] wide and covers a distance of nearly 12 miles [19 km]. The elevation starts at over 300 feet [90 m], and then it drops down steadily to about 390 feet [120 m] below sea level near Beth-shean. The entire central valley is very fertile, the Jezreel section being one of the richest parts of the entire country. Jezreel itself means “God Will Sow Seed.” (Hos. 2:22) The Scriptures speak of the pleasantness and beauty of this district. (Gen. 49:15) Both Megiddo and Jezreel were strategic in the battles fought by Israel and surrounding nations, and it was here that Barak, Gideon, King Saul, and Jehu fought.—Judg. 5:19-21; 7:12; 1 Sam. 29:1; 31:1, 7; 2 Ki. 9:27. C-1 HILLS OF GALILEE 11, 12. (a) To what extent did Galilee feature in the ministry of Jesus, and who came from this district? (b) Contrast Lower Galilee with Upper Galilee. 11 It was in the southern section of the hills of Galilee (and around the Sea of Galilee) that Jesus did the greater part of his work of witnessing to Jehovah’s name and Kingdom. (Matt. 4:15-17; Mark 3:7) Most of Jesus’ followers, including all 11 of his faithful apostles, came from Galilee. (Acts 2:7) In this district, sometimes called Lower Galilee, the country is truly delightful, the hills rising no higher than 2,000 feet [600 m]. From autumn to spring, there is no lack of rain over this pleasant land, and hence it is not a desert region. In springtime every hillside is ablaze with flowers, and every valley basin is rich with grain. On the small plateaus, there is rich soil for farming, and the hills are well suited for the growing of olive trees and vines. Towns of Bible fame in this area are Nazareth, Cana, and Nain. (Matt. 2:22, 23; John 2:1; Luke 7:11) This area gave Jesus a rich background to draw on in framing his illustrations.—Matt. 6:25-32; 9:37, 38. 12 In the northern section, or Upper Galilee, the hills rise to well over 3,600 feet [1,100 m], becoming, in effect, the foothills of the Lebanon Mountains. Upper Galilee is aloof and windswept, and rain is heavy. In Bible times the westward slopes were thickly forested. This region was assigned to the tribe of Naphtali.—Josh. 20:7. C-2 HILLS OF CARMEL 13. (a) What actually is Carmel? (b) What mention is made of it in the Bible? 13 The spur of Mount Carmel juts out majestically into the Mediterranean Sea. Carmel is actually a hilly range, about 30 miles [48 km] in length, that rises as high as 1,790 feet [545 m] above the sea. It extends from the hills of Samaria to the Mediterranean, and its headland, which forms the main ridge at the northwest end, is unforgettable in its grace and beauty. (Song of Sol. 7:5) The name Carmel means “Orchard,” which truly fits this fertile promontory, bedecked with its famous vineyards and fruit and olive trees. Isaiah 35:2 uses it as a symbol of the fruitful glory of the restored land of Israel: ‘The splendor of Carmel must be given it.’ It was here that Elijah challenged the priests of Baal and that “the fire of Jehovah came falling” in proof of His supremacy, and it was from the top of Carmel that Elijah called attention to the small cloud that became a great downpour, thus miraculously ending the drought on Israel.—1 Ki. 18:17-46. C-3 HILLS OF SAMARIA 14. Which tribes settled in the hills of Samaria, and for what crops is this area suitable? 14 The southern part of this region is the more hilly, rising to above 3,000 feet [900 m] in the east. (1 Sam. 1:1) In this region, there is a greater and more dependable rainfall than in Judah to the south. This region was settled by the descendants of Ephraim, Joseph’s younger son. The northern part of this region, which was allotted to the half tribe of Manasseh, the older son of Joseph, comprises valley basins and small plains surrounded by hills. The hilly land is not so fertile, though there are vineyards and olive groves, made possible by extensive terracing of the lower hillsides. (Jer. 31:5) However, the larger valley basins are excellent for grain growing and general farming. Many cities dotted this region in Bible times. During the time of the northern kingdom, Manasseh supplied the three successive capitals—Shechem, Tirzah, and Samaria—and the entire region came to be called Samaria, after the capital.—1 Ki. 12:25; 15:33; 16:24. 15. (a) How was Moses’ blessing on Joseph fulfilled in the region of Samaria? (b) How was this land further blessed during Jesus’ time? 15 Moses’ blessing on Joseph was truly fulfilled toward this land. “As to Joseph he said: ‘May his land be continually blessed from Jehovah with the choice things of heaven, with dew, . . . and with the choice things, the products of the sun, and with the choice things, the yield of the lunar months, and with the choicest from the mountains of the east, and with the choice things of the indefinitely lasting hills.’” (Deut. 33:13-15) Yes, this was delightful country. Its mountains were heavily forested, its valleys were productive, and it became filled with prosperous and well-populated cities. (1 Ki. 12:25; 2 Chron. 15:8) In later times Jesus preached in the land of Samaria, as did his disciples, and Christianity found many supporters there.—John 4:4-10; Acts 1:8; 8:1, 14. C-4 SHEPHELAH 16. (a) What characterizes the Shephelah? (b) Of what importance was this district in Bible times? 16 While the name Shephelah means “Lowland,” it is actually a hilly area reaching to an altitude of about 1,500 feet [450 m] in the southern portion and is cut by frequent valleys that run from east to west. (2 Chron. 26:10) It rises due east of the coastal plain of Philistia and is to be considered a lowland only by comparison with the higher hills of Judah farther to the east. (Josh. 12:8) Its hills, which were covered with sycamore trees, now support vineyards and olive groves. (1 Ki. 10:27) It had many cities. In Bible history it served as the buffer zone between Israel and the Philistines or whatever other invading armies tried to enter Judah from the direction of the coastal plain.—2 Ki. 12:17; Obad. 19. C-5 THE HILL COUNTRY OF JUDAH 17. (a) How productive was the hill country of Judah in Bible times, and how about today? (b) For what was Judah considered a good place? 17 This is a high rocky area about 50 miles [80 km] long and less than 20 miles [32 km] wide, with elevations varying from 2,000 to over 3,300 feet [600 to 1,000 km] above sea level. In Bible times the area was covered with timber growth, and especially on the western side, the hills and valleys were rich with grainfields, olive trees, and vineyards. This was a district that produced much good grain, oil, and wine for Israel. Particularly the area around Jerusalem has suffered much deforestation since Bible times and so appears barren in comparison with what it once was. In the winter, snow sometimes falls on the higher elevations in the center, such as at Bethlehem. In ancient times Judah was considered a good place for cities and fortresses, and in troublesome times the people could flee to these mountains for safety.—2 Chron. 27:4. 18. (a) When did Jerusalem become the capital of Israel and Judah? (b) What are some interesting features of the city? 18 Outstanding in the history of Judah and of Israel is Jerusalem, also called Zion, after the name of its citadel. (Ps. 48:1, 2) Originally it was the Canaanite city of Jebus, lying on high ground above the junction of the Valley of Hinnom and the Kidron Valley. After David captured it and made it the capital, it was extended to the northwest, and eventually it covered also the Tyropoeon Valley. In time the Valley of Hinnom came to be called Gehenna. Because the Jews made idolatrous sacrifices there, it was declared unclean and was turned into a dump for rubbish and the dead bodies of vile criminals. (2 Ki. 23:10; Jer. 7:31-33) Thus, its fires became a symbol of total annihilation. (Matt. 10:28; Mark 9:47, 48) Jerusalem drew only a limited water supply from the Pool of Siloam, west of the Kidron Valley, and Hezekiah protected this by building an outer wall to contain it within the city.—Isa. 22:11; 2 Chron. 32:2-5. C-6 WILDERNESS OF JUDAH (JESHIMON) 19. (a) How does Jeshimon fit the meaning of its name? (b) What Bible events took place in this region? 19 Jeshimon is the Bible name for the Wilderness of Judah. It means “Desert.” (1 Sam. 23:19, footnote) How descriptive and fitting this name! The wilderness consists of the rugged eastern slopes of barren chalky formations of the Judean hills, which drop in elevation more than 3,000 feet [900 m] in 15 miles [24 km] as they approach the Dead Sea, where there is a wall of jagged cliffs. There are no cities and few settlements in Jeshimon. It was to this wilderness of Judah that David fled from King Saul, it was between this wilderness and the Jordan that John the Baptizer preached, and it was to this region that Jesus retired when fasting for 40 days.b—1 Sam. 23:14; Matt. 3:1; Luke 4:1. C-7 NEGEB 20. Describe the Negeb. 20 South of the hills of Judah lies the Negeb, where the patriarchs Abraham and Isaac resided for many years. (Gen. 13:1-3; 24:62) The Bible also refers to the southern part of this area as “the wilderness of Zin.” (Josh. 15:1) The semiarid Negeb stretches from the district of Beer-sheba in the north to Kadesh-barnea in the south. (Gen. 21:31; Num. 13:1-3, 26; 32:8) The land drops from the hills of Judah by a series of ridges, which run east and west, in such a way as to present a natural barrier against traffic or invasion from the south. The land falls away from the hills in the eastern part of the Negeb to a desert plain in the west, along the seacoast. Summer finds the land as barren as the desert, except near some of the torrent valleys. However, water may be obtained by sinking a well. (Gen. 21:30, 31) The modern State of Israel is irrigating and developing parts of the Negeb. “The river of Egypt” marked the southwestern boundary of the Negeb as well as being part of the southern boundary of the Promised Land.—Gen. 15:18. C-8 WILDERNESS OF PARAN 21. Where is Paran, and what part did it play in Bible history? 21 South of the Negeb and merging with the Wilderness of Zin lies the Wilderness of Paran. On leaving Sinai, the Israelites crossed this wilderness on their way to the Promised Land, and it was from Paran that Moses sent out the 12 spies.—Num. 12:16–13:3. D. THE GREAT ARABAH (THE RIFT VALLEY) 22. By using the map on page 272 and the diagrams on page 273, along with this paragraph, briefly describe the main features of the Arabah (Rift Valley) and their relationship to the surrounding territory. 22 One of the most unusual land formations on this earth is the great Rift Valley. In the Bible, the part that cuts through the Promised Land from north to south is called “the Arabah.” (Josh. 18:18) At 2 Samuel 2:29 this split in the earth’s crust is described as a gully. To its north is Mount Hermon. (Josh. 12:1) From the foot of Hermon, the Rift Valley drops rapidly southward to about 2,600 feet [800 m] below sea level at the bottom of the Dead Sea. From the southern end of the Dead Sea, the Arabah continues, rising to more than 650 feet [200 m] above sea level about midway between the Dead Sea and the Gulf of ʽAqaba. Thereafter it descends rapidly into the tepid waters of the eastern prong of the Red Sea. The accompanying section maps show the relation of the Rift Valley to the surrounding country. D-1 HULA BASIN 23. With what was the Hula region associated in Bible times? 23 Beginning at the foot of Mount Hermon, the Rift Valley quickly falls more than 1,600 feet [490 m] to the Hula region, which is at about sea level. This district is well watered and remains beautifully green even through the hot summer months. It was in this area that the Danites settled in their city of Dan, which served as an idolatrous center of worship from the time of the judges into the time of the ten-tribe kingdom of Israel. (Judg. 18:29-31; 2 Ki. 10:29) It was at Caesarea Philippi, a town near the location of ancient Dan, that Jesus confirmed to his disciples that he was the Christ, and many believe that it was on nearby Mount Hermon that the transfiguration took place six days later. From Hula, the Rift Valley descends to the Sea of Galilee, which lies about 700 feet [210 m] below sea level.—Matt. 16:13-20; 17:1-9. D-2 REGION AROUND THE SEA OF GALILEE 24. (a) What other names is the Sea of Galilee called in the Bible? (b) What were its surroundings like in Jesus’ day? 24 The Sea of Galilee and its surroundings are delightful.c Interest in that region is heightened because of the many incidents in Jesus’ ministry that took place there. (Matt. 4:23) The sea is also called the Lake of Gennesaret, or Chinnereth, and the Sea of Tiberias. (Luke 5:1; Josh. 13:27; John 21:1) It is in reality a heart-shaped lake, almost 13 miles [21 km] long by about 7 miles [11 km] wide at its broadest point, and constitutes an important water reservoir for the whole land. It is closely shut in by hills on almost every side. The surface of the lake is about 700 feet [210 m] below sea level, resulting in pleasant, warm winters and very long, hot summers. In the days of Jesus, it was the center of a highly developed fishing industry, and the thriving cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, Capernaum, and Tiberias were located on or near the shore of the lake. The peacefulness of the lake can be quickly disturbed by storms. (Luke 8:23) The little plain of Gennesaret, triangular in shape, is located to the northwest of the lake. The soil is rich, producing almost every kind of crop known to the Promised Land. In the spring the gaily colored slopes glow with a brilliance that is nowhere surpassed in the land of Israel.d D-3 DISTRICT OF THE JORDAN VALLEY (THE GHOR) 25. What are the main features of the Jordan Valley? 25 This entire gulleylike descending valley is also called “the Arabah.” (Deut. 3:17) The Arabs today refer to it as The Ghor, meaning “Depression.” The valley starts at the Sea of Galilee and is generally broad—being about 12 miles [19 km] wide in places. The Jordan River itself lies about 150 feet [46 m] below the valley plain, turning and twisting in a course of 200 miles [320 km] to cover the 65 miles [105 km] to the Dead Sea.e Leaping over and down 27 cascading rapids, it falls about 590 feet [180 m] by the time it reaches the Dead Sea. The lower Jordan is fringed by a thicket of trees and shrubs, principally tamarisks, oleanders, and willows, among which lions and their cubs lurked in Bible times. This is today known as the Zor and is partly flooded in the spring. (Jer. 49:19) Rising above each side of this narrow junglelike strip is the Qattara, an inhospitable border of desolate land of little plateaus and dissected slopes leading up to the plains of The Ghor itself. The plains in the northern part of The Ghor, or Arabah, are well cultivated. Even in the southern part, toward the Dead Sea, the plateau of the Arabah, which is today very arid, at one time is said to have produced numerous kinds of dates, as well as many other tropical fruits. Jericho was and still is the most famous city in the Jordan Valley.—Josh. 6:2, 20; Mark 10:46. D-4 THE SALT (DEAD) SEA 26. (a) What are some of the remarkable facts about the Dead Sea? (b) What striking testimony does this region give concerning Jehovah’s judgments? 26 This is one of the most remarkable bodies of water on the face of the earth. It is fittingly called dead, for no fish live in the sea and there is little vegetation by its shore. The Bible calls it the Salt Sea, or the Sea of the Arabah, since it is located in the rift valley of the Arabah. (Gen. 14:3; Josh. 12:3) The sea is approximately 47 miles [75 km] from north to south and 9 miles [15 km] across. Its surface is about 1,300 feet [400 m] below that of the Mediterranean Sea, making it the lowest spot on earth. In its northern part, it has a depth of about 1,300 feet [400 m]. On each side, the sea is shut in by barren hills and steep cliffs. Although the Jordan River brings in fresh water, there is no water outlet except by evaporation, which is as fast as the water intake. The trapped water contains about 25 percent dissolved solid matter, mostly salt, and is poisonous to fish and painful to human eyes. Visitors to most of the area around the Dead Sea are often overwhelmed by a sense of desolation and destruction. It is a place of the dead. Though the entire region was once “a well-watered region . . . like the garden of Jehovah,” the area around the Dead Sea is now largely “a desolate waste” and has been such for close to 4,000 years, as striking testimony to the unchangeableness of Jehovah’s judgments that were executed there against Sodom and Gomorrah.—Gen. 13:10; 19:27-29; Zeph. 2:9. D-5 ARABAH (SOUTHWARD FROM THE SALT SEA) 27. What kind of territory makes up the southern Arabah, and who controlled this in ancient times? 27 This final section of the Rift Valley runs southward for another 100 miles [160 km]. This region is virtually all desert. Rain is rare, and the sun beats down without mercy. The Bible also calls this “the Arabah.” (Deut. 2:8) About midway, it reaches its highest point at more than 650 feet [200 m] above sea level and then descends southward again to the Gulf of ʽAqaba, the eastern prong of the Red Sea. It was here, at the port of Ezion-geber, that Solomon built a fleet of ships. (1 Ki. 9:26) For much of the period of the kings of Judah, this part of the Arabah was under the control of the kingdom of Edom. E. MOUNTAINS AND TABLELANDS EAST OF THE JORDAN 28. Of what value have the lands of Bashan and Gilead been agriculturally, and how were these regions involved in Bible history? 28 “The side of the Jordan toward the east” rises rapidly from the Rift Valley to form a series of tablelands. (Josh. 18:7; 13:9-12; 20:8) To the north is the land of Bashan (E-1), which, together with half of Gilead, was given to the tribe of Manasseh. (Josh. 13:29-31) This was cattle country, a land for the farmers, a fertile plateau averaging about 2,000 feet [600 m] above sea level. (Ps. 22:12; Ezek. 39:18; Isa. 2:13; Zech. 11:2) In Jesus’ day this area exported much grain, and today it is agriculturally productive. Next, to the south, there lies the land of Gilead (E-2), the lower half of which was assigned to the tribe of Gad. (Josh. 13:24, 25) A mountainous region reaching to 3,300 feet [1,000 m], watered by good rains in the winter and heavy dews in the summer, it was also good livestock country and was specially renowned for its balsam. Today it is noted for its choice grapes. (Num. 32:1; Gen. 37:25; Jer. 46:11) It was to the land of Gilead that David fled from Absalom, and in the western part, Jesus preached in “the regions of Decapolis.”—2 Sam. 17:26-29; Mark 7:31. 29. East of the Jordan, what lands lay to the south, and for what were they noted? 29 “The land of the sons of Ammon” (E-3) lies immediately south of Gilead, and half of this was given to the tribe of Gad. (Josh. 13:24, 25; Judg. 11:12-28) It is a rolling tableland, best suited to sheep grazing. (Ezek. 25:5) Still farther to the south is “the land of Moab.” (Deut. 1:5) The Moabites themselves were great sheepherders, and to this day sheep raising is the principal occupation of that area. (2 Ki. 3:4) Then, southeast of the Dead Sea, we come to the mountain plateau of Edom (E-4). The ruins of its great trading strongholds, such as Petra, remain to this day.—Gen. 36:19-21; Obad. 1-4. 30. By what are the tablelands bounded on the east? 30 To the east of these hills and tablelands lies the extensive rocky wilderness that effectively cut off direct travel between the Promised Land and Mesopotamia, causing the caravan routes to detour many miles northward. To the south this wilderness meets up with the sand dunes of the great Arabian desert. F. MOUNTAINS OF LEBANON 31. (a) What make up the mountains of Lebanon? (b) What features of Lebanon remain as they were in Bible times? 31 Dominating the landscape of the Promised Land are the mountains of Lebanon. There are really two ranges of mountains running parallel. The foothills of the Lebanon Range proper continue into Upper Galilee. In many places these hills reach right down to the seacoast. The highest peak in this range is about 10,000 feet [3,000 m] above sea level. The highest peak in the adjoining Anti-Lebanon Range is beautiful Mount Hermon, rising 9,232 feet [2,814 m] above sea level. Its melting snow provides a major source of water for the Jordan River and a source of dew during the dry period of late spring. (Ps. 133:3) The Lebanon Mountains were specially noted for their gigantic cedars, the wood of which featured in the construction of Solomon’s temple. (1 Ki. 5:6-10) While only a few groves of cedars remain today, the lower slopes still support vineyards, olive groves, and fruit orchards, just as they did in Bible times.—Hos. 14:5-7. 32. How did Moses correctly describe the Land of Promise? 32 As we thus conclude our visit to Jehovah’s Land of Promise, sandwiched as it is between the forbidding wilderness to the east and the Great Sea, we can form a mental picture of the glory that once clothed it in the days of Israel. Truly, it was “a very, very good land . . . , flowing with milk and honey.” (Num. 14:7, 8; 13:23) Moses referred to it in these words: “Jehovah your God is bringing you into a good land, a land of torrent valleys of water, springs and watery deeps issuing forth in the valley plain and in the mountainous region, a land of wheat and barley and vines and figs and pomegranates, a land of oil olives and honey, a land in which you will not eat bread with scarcity, in which you will lack nothing, a land the stones of which are iron and out of the mountains of which you will mine copper. When you have eaten and satisfied yourself, you must also bless Jehovah your God for the good land that he has given you.” (Deut. 8:7-10) May all who love Jehovah now likewise give thanks that he purposes to make the entire earth a glorious paradise, after the pattern of his ancient Land of Promise.—Ps. 104:10-24. [Footnotes] a Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 1, pages 332-3. b Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 1, page 335. c Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 1, page 336. d Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, pages 737-40. e Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 1, page 334. [Map on page 272] (For fully formatted text, see publication) NATURAL REGIONS of the PROMISED LAND (and adjoining territory) MI 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 KM 0 20 40 60 80 (For cross sections V—V, W—W, X—X, Y—Y, and Z—Z, see opposite page) KEY TO NUMBERS MEDITERRANEAN SEA A Seacoast of the Great Sea Joppa B-1 Plain of Asher B-2 The Coastal Strip of Dor Dor B-3 Pasture Grounds of Sharon B-4 Plain of Philistia Ashdod Ashkelon Ekron Gath Gaza B-5 Central East-West Valley (Plain of Megiddo, Low Plain of Jezreel) Beth-shean C-1 Hills of Galilee Cana Nain Nazareth Tyre C-2 Hills of Carmel C-3 Hills of Samaria Bethel Jericho Samaria Tirzah Shechem C-4 Shephelah Lachish C-5 The Hill Country of Judah Bethlehem Geba Hebron Jerusalem C-6 Wilderness of Judah (Jeshimon) C-7 Negeb Beer-sheba Kadesh-barnea River of Egypt C-8 Wilderness of Paran D-1 Hula Basin Dan Caesarea Philippi D-2 Region Around the Sea of Galilee Bethsaida Capernaum Chorazin Sea of Galilee Tiberias D-3 District of the Jordan Valley (The Ghor) Jordan River D-4 The Salt (Dead) Sea (Sea of the Arabah) Salt Sea D-5 Arabah (southward from the Salt Sea) Ezion-geber Red Sea E-1 Land of Bashan Damascus Edrei E-2 Land of Gilead Rabbah Ramoth-gilead T. V. of Jabbok E-3 Land of Ammon and of Moab Heshbon Kir-hareseth Medeba T. V. of Arnon T. V. of Zered E-4 Mountain Plateau of Edom Petra F Mountains of Lebanon Sidon Lebanon Mts. Mt. Hermon [Maps on page 273] (For fully formatted text, see publication) TYPICAL CROSS SECTIONS OF THE PROMISED LAND (For locations, see map on opposite page) Elevation is approximately 10 times the linear measurement West-East Section Across Ephraim (V—V) Mediterranean Sea B-3 Pasture Grounds of Sharon C-3 Hills of Samaria D-3 Arabah or Jordan Valley (The Ghor) Qattara Zor E-2 Land of Gilead MI 0 5 10 KM 0 8 16 Numbers on left are METERS Numbers on right are FEET +900 +3,000 +600 +2,000 +300 +1,000 0 (Sea Level) 0 −300 −1,000 −600 −2,000 West-East Section Across Judah (W—W) Mediterranean Sea B-4 Sand Dunes Plain of Philistia C-4 Shephelah C-5 Hill Country of Judah Jerusalem C-6 Wilderness of Judah D-4 Rift Valley E-3 Land of Ammon and of Moab MI 0 5 10 KM 0 8 16 Numbers on left are METERS Numbers on right are FEET +900 +3,000 +600 +2,000 +300 +1,000 0 (Sea Level) 0 −300 −1,000 −600 −2,000 West-East Section Across Judah (X—X) Mediterranean Sea B-4 Sand Dunes Plain of Philistia C-4 Shephelah C-5 Hill Country of Judah C-6 Wilderness of Judah D-4 Rift Valley Salt Sea E-3 Land of Ammon and of Moab MI 0 5 10 KM 0 8 16 Numbers on left are METERS Numbers on right are FEET +900 +3,000 +600 +2,000 +300 +1,000 0 (Sea Level) 0 −300 −1,000 −600 −2,000 −900 −3,000 South-North Section Along the Mountains West of the Jordan (Y—Y) C-7 Negeb C-5 Hill Country of Judah C-3 Hills of Samaria B-5 Low Plain of Jezreel C-1 Hills of Galilee F MI 0 5 10 20 KM 0 8 16 32 Numbers on left are METERS Numbers on right are FEET +900 +3,000 +600 +2,000 +300 +1,000 0 (Sea Level) 0 South-North Section Along the Arabah or Rift Valley (Z—Z) D-5 D-4 Salt Sea D-3 Arabah or Jordan Valley (The Ghor) D-2 Sea of Galilee D-1 Hula Basin F MI 0 5 10 20 KM 0 8 16 32 Numbers on left are METERS Numbers on right are FEET +900 +3,000 +600 +2,000 +300 +1,000 0 (Sea Level) 0 −300 −1,000 −600 −2,000 −900 −3,000
School Guidebook (sg) 1992	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/sg	Study 1 Speaking Delightful Words of Truth 1-3. How did human speech originate, and how was it developed? 1 Jehovah is the great Creator of speech. To him must go all the credit for this marvelous means of communication among intelligent creatures. And since all that God does is good, we can be sure that his gift of speech to man originally was one of those ‘perfect presents’ referred to in the Bible at James 1:17. Regarding human speech, Ludwig Koehler, an expert on words, wrote: “What actually happens in speech, how the spark of perception kindles the spirit, . . . to become the spoken word, eludes our grasp. Human speech is a secret; it is a divine gift, a miracle.” 2 Thus at his creation Adam was given a vocabulary. He also had the ability to coin new words. He was indeed gifted with the ability to communicate effectively. Not only could he express his thoughts in good speech, but he also had the ability to understand speech. This we learn from the fact that God spoke to Adam, issuing instructions to him. In turn, Adam could communicate with Eve.—Gen. 1:27-30; 2:16-20. 3 However, at a time of great wickedness on earth, at the tower of Babel, God confused the speech of men. (Gen. 11:4-9) And so it is that there are today many languages, most of which have various dialects. Some of these tongues are spoken by small tribal groups and others are spoken by millions of persons. Man’s speech, like man himself, has fallen far from its original perfection. Frequently his speech is used to spread falsehood and to turn people away from God. 4. How should we use our power of speech? 4 We, as ministers of Jehovah, on the other hand, want to use the power of speech properly. We have the privilege of talking to people about the true God and sharing with them his thrilling message of eternal life in a righteous new world. To help us to do this effectively this Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook is provided. 5, 6. Why is it so important that what we speak be the truth? 5 Speaking words of truth. Proper use of the power of speech requires that what we speak always be the truth, in full harmony with God’s Word. Falsehood cannot impart spiritual health to listeners. So the apostle Paul wisely admonished: “Keep holding the pattern of healthful words that you heard from me.” Why? Because that “pattern of healthful words” had come from God. (2 Tim. 1:13) Paul warned that some would “turn their ears away from the truth,” but he showed that the right thing is to “preach the word,” God’s Word. So we should stick to God’s Word of truth, using it as the basis for all the preaching and teaching that we do.—2 Tim. 4:1-5. 6 We are well aware that the right word spoken at the right time can start someone on the way to everlasting life or help him to stay in the way of life. (Prov. 18:21; Jas. 5:19, 20) So proper use of words is of great importance to each of us ministers, and the Theocratic Ministry School seeks to underline this fact. 7-9. What kind of words are usually most effective? 7 Choice of Words. Words are designed to communicate thoughts or ideas from the speaker’s mind to his hearers. This can be done successfully only if the speaker selects words that accurately express his thoughts and that are known or easily identifiable by his hearers. Effective choice of words does not come easily at first. Even wise King Solomon, the congregator of Israel, “pondered and made a thorough search, that he might arrange many proverbs in order. The congregator sought to find the delightful words and the writing of correct words of truth.” (Eccl. 12:9, 10) So it takes mental effort, search and good judgment to find desirable words. At Ec 12 verse eleven of the same Bible chapter, the effectiveness of well-selected words is indicated. “The words of the wise ones” are likened to “oxgoads” that prod and encourage people along the road to life. 8 Simplicity of words is one of the first principles to learn. Words do not need to be complicated or difficult in order to make speech effective. In fact, simplicity is a key to understanding and thus a great aid to the memory. What could be simpler yet more majestic than these opening words of the Bible Record: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth”? You cannot forget them. So, too, the conclusion reached by the wise congregator after all his pondering: “Fear the true God and keep his commandments. For this is the whole obligation of man.”—Eccl. 12:13. 9 We want to avoid words that muffle the clear ring of God’s truth. We do not want to ‘obscure counsel by words without knowledge.’ (Job 38:2) For who will hear and understand “if the trumpet sounds an indistinct call”?—1 Cor. 14:8. 10, 11. How is Jesus an example for us in speaking? 10 We can all benefit from the fine example of Christ Jesus. His simple phrasing and illustrations from ordinary occurrences of life had a powerful effect on listeners. Recall his discourse given on the mountain close to Capernaum, as set out in chapters five through seven of Matthew’s Gospel. Flowery oratory? No. Ambiguous words? None. Jesus was concerned about getting the truth into minds so that it would affect the hearts of people. He truly had the mind of his Father, Jehovah. His is the finest example as to speech for all of Jehovah’s ministers. 11 Let us never underestimate the powerful effect of clear, simple, well-chosen words of truth. They can delight, they can inspire, they can move to action. Of Jesus’ speech the account at Luke 4:22 tells that the listeners “all began to give favorable witness about him and to marvel at the winsome words proceeding out of his mouth.” His apostles, too, found many eager listeners. This in spite of the fact that prominent Jews of that time perceived those apostles to be “unlettered and ordinary” men. (Acts 4:13) What was the explanation? They had learned their method from their Master, Christ. Is not that a great encouragement for God’s ministers today, both young and old? 12. How can parents help their children to learn to express themselves well? 12 Parents can do a great deal to help their children to express themselves well. Around the home fine everyday speech can be inculcated, both by example and by teaching. The principles of the Bible, which should guide one’s speech, can be impressed on youthful minds. (Deut. 6:6-9) Many families take a few minutes each morning to discuss the Bible text for the day as set out in the booklet Examining the Scriptures Daily, and at other times they read together from The Watchtower or Awake! This is wonderful training for the family, adding new words to their vocabulary and showing how these words can be delightfully phrased for more effective communication to others. In this way, too, the family are getting the mind of Jehovah on matters, and their speech will reflect that. 13-16. To benefit fully from the Theocratic Ministry School, what must we personally do? 13 Making progress by sharing in Theocratic Ministry School. With the help of the course of study outlined in this Guidebook, all of us who sincerely desire to advance in the ministry will be aided to use “delightful words . . . correct words of truth.” Regardless of age or educational status, if you rely on Jehovah’s direction and on his spirit you can make progress and advance in the Christian ministry. But it is necessary for you to put forth the needed effort. You are urged to “ponder over these things; be absorbed in them, that your advancement may be manifest to all persons.”—1 Tim. 4:15. 14 Effort on the part of each one of us includes determining to be present at all congregational meetings of Jehovah’s people, and then following through with that determination. Particularly at the Theocratic Ministry School’s weekly sessions there will be help provided so that you can carry out the advice of the apostle Paul: “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.”—2 Tim. 2:15. 15 Each person, male or female, young or old, who attends meetings of the congregation may enroll and gain the benefits of this school. You may enroll whether you are baptized or not. Those who perhaps lack some school education should keep in mind that God foresaw that the message of the Kingdom would be heard without response by many who are wise in a fleshly way, of noble birth, highly educated from a worldly viewpoint. (1 Cor. 1:26-29) But he also foreknew that many who are despised from the world’s point of view would heed it and willingly pass it on to other truth-hungry persons. By enrolling in this school and by faithfully following through with its lessons you will be guided to knowledge that will truly enable you to speak delightful words of truth to honest-hearted ones. This will be for your own refreshment as well as for the refreshment of those who hear you. 16 Above all, by being a diligent student of this course you will be seeking, by word and action, to attain to that about which King David of Israel prayed: “Let the sayings of my mouth and the meditation of my heart become pleasurable before you, O Jehovah my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Ps. 19:14) Every Christian should have a strong desire to be able to speak well, on all occasions using words that will be pleasing to the Creator. The Theocratic Ministry School offers you valuable assistance in achieving that goal.
Our Changing World—What Does the Future Really Hold?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101993003	Our Changing World—What Does the Future Really Hold? IF OUR world is to change for the better, what options do we have? One choice is to believe that the world’s rulers and leaders will eventually become altruistic and start leading mankind into the ways of mutual tolerance, understanding, and peace. That means believing that tribalism and nationalism will be eradicated and replaced by a supranational attitude that can bring harmony to the world. It also involves believing that leaders of capitalist economies will recognize that profit motive alone is an inadequate ethic in a world of massive unemployment, homelessness, and huge medical bills. In addition it means believing that all the arms manufacturers of the world will start yearning for world peace and will beat their swords into plowshares. Further, it means that the criminal elements of the world, including the capos of the Mafia, the bosses of Oriental crime gangs, and the drug lords of South America, will repent and turn over a new leaf! In other words, it means believing in a man-made Utopia—an impossible dream. If God is taken out of the equation, then we are in a situation similar to that described by the historian Paul Johnson in his book A History of the Modern World. He wrote that one of the underlying evils contributing to the “catastrophic failures and tragedies” of our century is “the arrogant belief that men and women could solve all the mysteries of the universe by their own unaided intellects.”—Compare Isaiah 2:2-4. However, there is a valid choice for positive change. That is to believe that the earth’s Creator, our planet’s Landlord, the Great Architect of change, Jehovah God, will intervene in human affairs in order to save his handiwork. Bible history shows that God has taken action in the past to further his purposes, and Bible prophecy indicates that he will soon take action again in order to fulfill his original purpose for mankind and the earth.—Isaiah 45:18. A Unique Source of Reliable Information The unique Source of real knowledge of what the future holds for mankind is described in the words of the Bible prophet Isaiah: “Remember the first things of a long time ago, that I am the Divine One and there is no other God, nor anyone like me; the One telling from the beginning the finale, and from long ago the things that have not been done.”—Isaiah 46:9-11. Why should Jehovah God have foreknowledge of the events that are due to affect mankind? Again Isaiah answers: “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” God’s thoughts for mankind’s future are expressed in the Bible.—Isaiah 55:9. “Critical Times Hard to Deal With” What has God’s Word, the Bible, foretold for our generation? The Christian apostle Paul warned: “But know this, that in the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here.” (2 Timothy 3:1) Ever since 1914 and World War I, we have been living in times that have become more and more critical. Man’s selfishness, greed, and lust for power have led him to commit worse and worse atrocities not only against his fellowman but also against nature itself. Man’s indifference to his environment is threatening the future existence of his children and grandchildren. This critical danger was highlighted by former president of Czechoslovakia, Vaclav Havel, who wrote about conditions in that country. In effect, his words have worldwide application: “These are but the consequences of . . . man’s attitude toward the world, toward nature, toward other humans, toward being itself. These are the consequences . . . of the arrogance of modern man, who believes he understands everything and knows everything, who names himself master of nature and the world. . . . Such was the thinking of man who refused to recognize anything . . . higher than himself.” The previously quoted Al Gore wrote: “I am convinced that many people have lost their faith in the future, because in virtually every facet of our civilization we are beginning to act as if our future is now so much in doubt that it makes more sense to focus exclusively on our current needs and short-term problems.” (Earth in the Balance) Certainly pessimism regarding the future seems to be a prevailing attitude. This situation has come about partially because Paul’s further words have been fulfilled: “Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, self-assuming, haughty, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride, lovers of pleasures rather than lovers of God, having a form of godly devotion but proving false to its power; and from these turn away.”—2 Timothy 3:2-5. A Better Alternative But God has purposed that things will change on this earth—for the better. He has promised that he will bring about “new heavens and a new earth . . . , and in these righteousness is to dwell.” (2 Peter 3:13) To restore this polluted earth to the condition of Paradise, Jehovah God must first “bring to ruin those ruining the earth.” (Revelation 11:18) How is this going to take place? Using symbolic language, the Bible indicates that God will soon put it into the hearts of the political elements, including the United Nations, to destroy the power and the prestige of perhaps the most negative force in mankind’s history—the nationalistic and divisive influence of religion earth wide.a According to Martin van Creveld, in his book The Transformation of War, “there appears every prospect that religious attitudes, beliefs, and fanaticisms will play a larger role in the motivation of armed conflict than it has, in the West at any rate, for the last 300 years.” Possibly because of meddling in politics, religion is going to suffer at the hands of the political powers. Yet, those powers will unwittingly be fulfilling God’s will.—Revelation 17:16, 17; 18:21, 24. The Bible goes on to show that God will next turn his attention to the exploitive, beastlike political elements of Satan’s corrupt world system and engage them in his final war, or battle of Armageddon. After the removal of the ruthless political systems and their master manipulator, Satan, the way will be clear for the peaceful new world that God has promised.b—Revelation 13:1, 2; 16:14-16. Jehovah’s Witnesses have been preaching from house to house about these coming changes for nearly 80 years. During that time, they too have seen and experienced the many changes that mankind has wrought. They have been through Nazi prisons and concentration camps because of their Bible-based principles. They have experienced the agonies and suffering of life in many parts of Africa, including civil wars and tribal strife. They have endured persecution at the hands of most political and religious systems because of their neutrality and their zealous preaching activity. Yet, in spite of it all, they have seen God’s blessing on their worldwide educational work as they have grown from a few thousand in 1914 to about four and a half million in 1993. Reasons for Optimism Rather than being overcome by pessimism, the Witnesses have an optimistic outlook because they know that the best and greatest changes are soon to take place on this earth. Events since 1914 have fulfilled the prophecies that Jesus gave, marking the time of his invisible presence in Kingdom power and indicating that we are in the time of the end for any human-inspired “new world disorder,” as a French writer in Le Monde described the prospects of the immediate future. Jesus said: “When you see these things occurring, know that the kingdom of God is near.”—Luke 21:7-32. Man’s “new world order” is vulnerable to the flaws of human nature—ambition, lust for power, greed, corruption, and injustice. God’s new world will guarantee justice. Of him it is written: “The Rock, perfect is his activity, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness, with whom there is no injustice; righteous and upright is he.”—Deuteronomy 32:4. Man’s “new world order” is open to what McGeorge Bundy, U.S. expert on foreign policy, called “narrow nationalistic feelings to which demagogues can appeal.” Continuing, he said: “We know from history how economic and social failure can give strength to such extremists. We also know that no matter where it happens, that kind of nationalism is dangerous.” God’s new world guarantees harmony and peace between people of all tribes and nations because they will be educated in Jehovah’s ways of impartiality and love. Isaiah prophesied: “And all your sons will be persons taught by Jehovah, and the peace of your sons will be abundant.” (Isaiah 54:13) And the Christian apostle Peter said: “For a certainty I perceive that God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.”—Acts 10:34, 35. Without a doubt, there will be dramatic developments in the immediate future in the world as we know it. However, the greatest changes, the permanent and beneficial changes, are those that God has promised to bring about, and he “cannot lie.”—Titus 1:2. [Footnotes] a The world empire of false religion is identified in the Bible as “Babylon the Great, the mother of the harlots,” a bloodstained queen whose “sins have massed together clear up to heaven.” (Revelation 17:3-6, 16-18; 18:5-7) For a detailed explanation of the identification of Babylon the Great, see the book Mankind’s Search for God, pages 368-71, published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc. b For a more detailed explanation of these events prophesied in the Bible, see the book Revelation—Its Grand Climax At Hand! chapters 30-42, published in 1988 by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc.
Young People Ask (yp) 1989	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp	Chapter 12 Why Don’t I Like Myself? “I DON’T feel very special at all,” lamented Louise. Do you, too, occasionally feel bad about yourself? Really, everyone needs a certain amount of self-esteem. It has been called “the ingredient that gives dignity to human existence.” Further, the Bible says: “You must love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 19:19) And if you feel bad about yourself, you will probably feel bad about others too. ‘I Can’t Do Anything Right!’ Why might you have these negative feelings about yourself? For one thing, your limitations may frustrate you. You are growing up, and often there is a period of awkwardness in which dropping things or bumping into them is a daily embarrassment. Then, too, you simply don’t have an adult’s experience in bouncing back from disappointments. And because your “perceptive powers” haven’t been sufficiently trained “through use,” you may not always make the wisest decisions. (Hebrews 5:14) At times you may feel that you can’t do anything right! Failure to meet one’s parents’ expectations can be another cause of low self-esteem. “If I make an ‘A minus’ in school,” one youth says, “my folks want to know why it wasn’t an ‘A’ and tell me I’m a failure.” Of course, it’s instinctive for parents to urge their children to do their very best. And when you fall short of reasonable expectations, you can be sure that you will hear about it. The Bible’s counsel is: “Listen, my son [or daughter], to the discipline of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother.” (Proverbs 1:8, 9) Instead of feeling discouraged, take criticism in stride and learn from it. What, though, if one’s folks make unfair comparisons? (“Why can’t you be like your older brother, Paul? He was always an honor student.”) Such comparisons, hurtful though they may seem at the time, often make a valid point. Your folks just want the best for you. And if you feel they’re being too hard on you, why not discuss matters with them calmly? Building Self-Respect How can you bolster sagging self-esteem? First, take an honest look at your assets and liabilities. You will discover that many of your so-called liabilities are quite petty. What about serious flaws, such as a quick temper or selfishness? Conscientiously work on these problems and your self-respect is sure to grow. Furthermore, do not blind yourself to the fact that you already have assets! You may not think that being able to cook or to fix a flat tire is that important. But a hungry person or a stranded motorist will admire you for having such skills! Think, too, of your virtues. Are you studious? Patient? Compassionate? Generous? Kind? These qualities far outweigh minor flaws. It may also help to consider this brief checklist: Set realistic goals: If you always shoot for the stars, you can suffer bitter disappointment. Set goals that are attainable. How about learning a skill such as typing? Learn to play a musical instrument or to speak another language. Improve or branch out in your reading. Self-respect is a useful by-product of accomplishment. Do good work: If you do shoddy work, you’re not going to feel good about yourself. God took pleasure in his creative works and declared the creative epochs to be “good” at their completion. (Genesis 1:3-31) You, too, can take pleasure in whatever work you do at home or in school by doing it skillfully and conscientiously.—See Proverbs 22:29. Do things for others: Self-respect is not gained by sitting back and letting others wait on you hand and foot. Jesus said that “whoever wants to become great . . . must be [a] minister,” or servant, for others.—Mark 10:43-45. For example, 17-year-old Kim budgeted 60 hours each month of summer vacation to help others learn Bible truths. She says: “It has brought me closer to Jehovah. It has also helped me to develop a real love for people.” It is not likely that this happy young woman will be lacking in self-respect! Pick your friends carefully: “My relationship with myself is a very unhappy one,” said 17-year-old Barbara. “When I am with people who have confidence in me, I do good work. With those who treat me as an accessory to a machine, I become stupid.” People who are high-minded or insulting can indeed make you feel bad about yourself. So pick friends who are truly interested in your welfare, friends who build you up.—Proverbs 13:20. Make God your closest friend: “Jehovah is my crag and my stronghold,” declared the psalmist David. (Psalm 18:2) His confidence was not in his own abilities but in his close friendship with Jehovah. Thus, when adversity later struck him, he could withstand severe criticism without losing his composure. (2 Samuel 16:7, 10) You, too, can “draw close to God” and thus “boast,” not in yourself, but in Jehovah!—James 2:21-23; 4:8; 1 Corinthians 1:31. Dead Ends One writer said: “Sometimes the adolescent with a weak identity and low self-esteem tries to develop a false front or facade with which to face the world.” The roles some assume are familiar: The “tough guy,” the promiscuous socialite, the outrageously clad punk rocker. But beneath the facades, such youths still grapple with feelings of inferiority.—Proverbs 14:13. Consider, for example, those who indulge in promiscuity “to banish feelings of depression, to increase self-esteem [by feeling wanted], to achieve intimacy and, with pregnancy, to gain the love and unquestioning acceptance of another human being—a baby.” (Coping With Teenage Depression) One disenchanted young woman wrote: “I tried to substitute sexual intimacy as a comfort, rather than trying to build a solid relationship with my Creator. All I built was emptiness, loneliness and more depression.” Beware, then, of such dead ends. A Word of Caution Interestingly, the Scriptures frequently warn against thinking too highly of oneself! Why is this? Apparently because most of us, in our efforts to gain self-confidence, tend to overshoot the mark. Many become egotistical and grossly exaggerate their skills and abilities. Some elevate themselves by putting others down. Back in the first century, intense rivalry between Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews) afflicted a Christian congregation in Rome. So the apostle Paul reminded the Gentiles that only by means of God’s “kindness” had they been “grafted” into a position of God’s favor. (Romans 11:17-36) Self-righteous Jews, too, had to confront their imperfections. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” said Paul.—Romans 3:23. Paul did not strip them of self-esteem but said: “For through the undeserved kindness given to me I tell everyone . . . not to think more of himself than it is necessary to think.” (Romans 12:3) So while it is “necessary” to have a measure of self-respect, one should not go to extremes in this regard. As Dr. Allan Fromme observes: “A person who has an adequate conception of himself is not sad, but he does not have to be deliriously happy. . . . He is not pessimistic, but his optimism is not unbridled. He is neither foolhardy nor free of specific fears . . . He realizes that he is not the outstanding success of all time, nor is he a perennial [continual] failure.” So be modest. “God opposes the haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the humble ones.” (James 4:6) Acknowledge your assets, but don’t ignore your faults. Rather, work on them. You’ll still doubt yourself from time to time. But you need not ever doubt your self-worth or that God cares for you. For “if anyone loves God, this one is known by him.”—1 Corinthians 8:3. Questions for Discussion ◻ Why do some youths have negative feelings about themselves? Can you relate to the way such youths feel? ◻ How might you handle the demands of your parents? ◻ What are some ways to build self-respect? ◻ What are some dead ends to building self-esteem? ◻ Why must you be careful not to think too highly of yourself? [Blurb on page 98] Self-esteem has been called “the ingredient that gives dignity to human existence” [Picture on page 99] Do you feel dejected, inferior? There is a solution [Picture on page 101] Becoming a boaster or a braggart is no solution to having low self-esteem [Picture on page 102] Do you sometimes feel you can’t do anything right?
Table of outputs	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2024248	Table of outputs IN THIS ISSUE Study Article 1: March 4-10, 2024 2 Conquer Fear by Trusting in Jehovah Study Article 2: March 11-17, 2024 8 Are You Ready for the Most Important Day of the Year? 15 Do You Treat Women as Jehovah Does? 19 Did You Know?—What type of vehicle was the Ethiopian eunuch riding in when Philip approached him? Study Article 3: March 25-31, 2024 20 Jehovah Will Help You During Difficult Times Study Article 4: April 1-7, 2024 26 Jehovah Has Tender Affection for You 32 Study Tip—Ideas for Personal and Family Worship
WAS IT DESIGNED? The Bar-Tailed Godwit’s Navigational System	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102013007	WAS IT DESIGNED? The Bar-Tailed Godwit’s Navigational System THE bar-tailed godwit makes one of the most amazing migrations known to man. The bird’s 7,000-mile (11,000 km) journey can take more than eight days. Consider: Researchers speculate that some types of birds use the earth’s magnetic field for navigation, as if they had a compass built into their brain. It is possible that the godwit additionally navigates by means of the sun by day and the stars by night. It seems that the godwit can also sense upcoming storm systems that could allow it to benefit from tailwinds. Still, the details of just how these birds make their incredible journey baffle experts. “I’ve been studying them 20 years,” says biologist Bob Gill, “and it’s still jaw-dropping to me.” What Do You Think? Did the navigational system of the bar-tailed godwit come about by evolution? Or was it designed?
A Double Life Who Has to Know?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101994006	Young People Ask . . . A Double Life Who Has to Know? “Mom and Dad had been taking me to Christian meetings, and I knew right from wrong,” admits Robert. “But I wanted to be liked and accepted by the other kids at school. So to be cool and popular, I started smoking in the sixth grade. In the seventh grade, I started using LSD and smoking pot. In the eighth grade, I started shooting a drug called speed. I fooled everyone—but I was miserable.” MANY youths today—including some reared by Christian parents—lead double lives. Not that all become drug users, as did Robert. But behind the backs of their parents, some youths do secretly date, drink, wear outlandish clothing, listen to wild music, attend rowdy parties, and engage in a host of other activities that are frowned upon or forbidden by their parents. Are you following such a life-style yourself? If so, you probably know that what you are doing is wrong. Like Robert, you may even suffer the pangs of a guilty conscience. (Romans 2:15) Still, the thought of revealing your misdeeds to your parents is not a pleasant one. And when you consider the likely consequences, the argument ‘What my parents don’t know won’t hurt them’ may seem to make sense. But it could hurt you. Faulty Reasoning You might feel, for example, that you have some legitimate gripes about the way your parents do things. Perhaps you do. But even if they are at times unreasonably strict, uncommunicative, or arbitrary, does that justify continued disobedience? Not according to God’s Word, which counsels: “Be obedient to your parents in everything, for this is well-pleasing in the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20) And what if you feel you are legitimately angry with your parents? Does it make sense to vent that anger by secretly violating God-given standards? In effect, you would then be acting as if you were “enraged against Jehovah himself.” (Proverbs 19:3) The right thing to do would be to approach your parents and calmly discuss with them any grievances you have.—Proverbs 15:22. Equally faulty is the belief that by maintaining silence you protect your parents from emotional upset. One 16-year-old boy said: “I wouldn’t talk about something that disappoints [my parents].” Again, such slick reasoning is nothing more than self-deception. As the Bible puts it, it is a case of someone acting “too smoothly to himself in his own eyes to find out his error so as to hate it.” (Psalm 36:2) When you really care about your parents’ feelings, you avoid disobedience in the first place. Besides, any attempts to keep them in the dark will probably prove vain, for doubtless others already know about your secret life. Nothing Is Hidden The ancient Israelites found this out when they tried to get away with secret wrongdoing. Warned the prophet Isaiah: “Woe to those who are going very deep in concealing counsel from Jehovah himself, and whose deeds have occurred in a dark place, while they say: ‘Who is seeing us, and who is knowing of us?’” (Isaiah 29:15) The Israelites forgot that God saw their deeds of misconduct. In due time, he called them to account for their errors. The same proved true for some Christians in the first-century congregation. Read for yourself at Acts 5:1-11 the account about Ananias and his wife, Sapphira. When a special fund was set up to care for needy Christians, Ananias sold a field and boldly claimed he was contributing the entire proceeds of its sale. In reality, though, Ananias had “secretly held back some of the price” for his personal gain. Was God fooled by this pretense of generosity? Not at all. “You have played false, not to men, but to God,” said the apostle Peter. “On hearing these words Ananias fell down and expired.” Sapphira, who was an accomplice, was struck down shortly thereafter. Both apparently forgot that God “is aware of the secrets of the heart.”—Psalm 44:21. Likewise today, even if you are successfully hiding misconduct from your parents, you cannot hide such misconduct from the watchful eyes of Jehovah God. “There is not a creation that is not manifest to his sight,” says Hebrews 4:13, “but all things are naked and openly exposed to the eyes of him with whom we have an accounting.” Could you possibly feel more exposed than that? And in time your hidden sins will be revealed to others as well. Says Proverbs 20:11: “Even by his practices a boy makes himself recognized as to whether his activity is pure and upright.” Another proverb says: “He that is covering over his transgressions will not succeed.”—Proverbs 28:13. A young woman named Tammy learned this as a youth. Although raised by Christian parents, she fell into smoking, drinking, and dating unbelievers. Tammy tried hard to keep her vices secret, but she recalls: “My parents noticed changes in me. I became rebellious and developed an independent attitude. When a person is leading a double life, it’s bound to show up sooner or later. For me, it was sooner. My father caught me meeting a boyfriend at a nearby school.” How Jehovah Feels Therefore, what your parents don’t know can—and probably will—hurt them in due time. Even more important, have you asked yourself, ‘How does Jehovah feel about those who live a lie?’ Answers Psalm 5:5, 6: ‘Jehovah hates all those practicing what is hurtful; he will destroy those speaking a lie. A man of deception Jehovah detests.’ Do not delude yourself into thinking you can appease God simply by putting on a show of devotion when you attend religious meetings. He knows when people ‘honor him with their lips, but their hearts are far removed from him.’—Mark 7:6. A youth named Ricardo, who got involved in sexually unclean conduct, thus confessed: “A person has a terrible feeling when he knows that he has grieved Jehovah.” But is it really possible to grieve Jehovah—that is, make him feel bad? Indeed it is! When the ancient nation of Israel abandoned God’s Law, they “pained even the Holy One of Israel.” (Psalm 78:41) How pained he must be today when youths reared “in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah” secretly do wrong things!—Ephesians 6:4. Hurt Parents Realize, then, that you cannot stay in hiding forever. You owe it to God, to your parents, and to yourself to come clean and confess to what has been going on in secret. Admittedly, this may result in embarrassment and perhaps some grievous consequences. (Hebrews 12:10, 11) If you have carried on a pattern of lying and deception, you have undermined your parents’ trust in you. So don’t be surprised if they restrict you more than before. Tammy recalls: “After I was caught with my boyfriend, my father was scared. Now he realized I could not be trusted. It meant keeping a constant eye on me.” But Tammy recognized that she was simply reaping what she had sown.—Galatians 6:7. You can also expect your folks to be hurt and angry. Their name and reputation have been blemished. (Compare Genesis 34:30.) If your father is one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, he may possibly have to relinquish some of his congregation privileges. (Titus 1:5-7) Yes, as Proverbs 17:25 says, a rebellious youth can be “a vexation to his father and a bitterness to her that gave him birth.” Author Joy P. Gage poignantly describes how some parents feel when a child rebels. She says: “Some cry quietly. Some cry hysterically. Some cry behind closed doors. They cry for all their yesterdays. They cry because suddenly there are no more tomorrows. They cry for what might have been. They cry for what surely is to be. They cry out of anger. They cry out of frustration.” Understandably, it will not be easy to face having caused such grief for the two people who love you more than anyone else in the world does. Says Tammy: “I look back and wish I had not caused so much sadness to my father and mother.” However, you cannot go back and undo the past. And as painful and difficult as it will no doubt be, you have an obligation to try to set matters straight. (Compare Isaiah 1:18.) That means telling your parents the truth, acknowledging their hurt and anger, accepting whatever discipline they mete out. Your telling the truth can be the first step in bringing joy to the hearts of your parents, and to the heart of Jehovah God, as well as gaining the joyful satisfaction of a clear conscience for you.—Proverbs 27:11; 2 Corinthians 4:2. But just how should you go about telling your folks? How can you escape living a double life? These questions will be discussed in our next issue. [Picture on page 19] Telling the truth can bring relief to you and your parents
Revelation Climax (re) 1988	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/re	Chapter 34 An Awesome Mystery Solved 1. (a) How does John react at seeing the great harlot and her fearsome mount, and why? (b) How does the John class today react as events unfold in fulfillment of the prophetic vision? WHAT is John’s reaction at seeing the great harlot and her fearsome mount? He himself answers: “Well, on catching sight of her I wondered with great wonderment.” (Revelation 17:6b) Mere human imagination could never conjure up such a sight. Yet, there it is—away out in a wilderness—a debauched prostitute perched on a gruesome, scarlet-colored wild beast! (Revelation 17:3) The John class today also wonders with great wonderment as events unfold in fulfillment of the prophetic vision. If people of the world could see it, they would exclaim, ‘Incredible!’ and the world’s rulers would echo, ‘Unthinkable!’ But the vision becomes a startling reality in our day. God’s people have already had a remarkable share in the vision’s fulfillment, and this assures them that the prophecy will move right on to its astounding climax. 2. (a) In response to John’s amazement, what does the angel tell him? (b) What has the John class had revealed to it, and how has this been done? 2 The angel notices John’s amazement. “And so,” John continues, “the angel said to me: ‘Why is it you wondered? I will tell you the mystery of the woman and of the wild beast that is carrying her and that has the seven heads and the ten horns.’” (Revelation 17:7) Ah, the angel will now unravel the mystery! He explains to the wide-eyed John the various facets of the vision and the dramatic events that are about to unfold. Likewise, as it serves under angelic direction today, the watchful John class has had revealed to it the understanding of the prophecy. “Do not interpretations belong to God?” Like faithful Joseph, we believe that they do. (Genesis 40:8; compare Daniel 2:29, 30.) God’s people are placed, as it were, center stage as Jehovah interprets to them the meaning of the vision and its impact on their lives. (Psalm 25:14) Right on time, he has opened up to their understanding the mystery of the woman and of the wild beast.—Psalm 32:8. 3, 4. (a) What public talk was given by N. H. Knorr in 1942, and how did it identify the scarlet-colored wild beast? (b) What words spoken by the angel to John were discussed by N. H. Knorr? 3 From September 18 to 20, 1942, at the height of World War II, Jehovah’s Witnesses in the United States held their New World Theocratic Assembly. The key city, Cleveland, Ohio, was tied in by telephone with more than 50 other convention cities, for a peak attendance of 129,699. Where wartime conditions permitted, other conventions repeated the program around the world. At the time, many of Jehovah’s people expected that the war would escalate into God’s war of Armageddon; hence the input of the public talk, “Peace—Can It Last?,” aroused much curiosity. How could the new president of the Watch Tower Society, N. H. Knorr, presume to talk about peace when the very opposite seemed to be in store for the nations?a The reason was that the John class was paying “more than the usual attention” to God’s prophetic Word.—Hebrews 2:1; 2 Peter 1:19. 4 What light did the talk “Peace—Can It Last?” throw on the prophecy? Clearly identifying the scarlet-colored wild beast of Revelation 17:3 as the League of Nations, N. H. Knorr went on to discuss its stormy career on the basis of the angel’s following words to John: “The wild beast that you saw was, but is not, and yet is about to ascend out of the abyss, and it is to go off into destruction.”—Revelation 17:8a. 5. (a) How was it that “the wild beast . . . was” and then “is not”? (b) How did N. H. Knorr answer the question, “Will the League remain in the pit?” 5 “The wild beast . . . was.” Yes, it had existed as the League of Nations from January 10, 1920, onward, with 63 nations participating at one time or another. But, in turn, Japan, Germany, and Italy withdrew, and the former Soviet Union was dropped from the League. In September 1939 the Nazi dictator of Germany launched World War II.b Having failed to keep peace in the world, the League of Nations virtually plunged into an abyss of inactivity. By 1942 it had become a has-been. Neither before this nor at some later date—but right at that critical time—did Jehovah interpret to his people the full depth of meaning of the vision! At the New World Theocratic Assembly, N. H. Knorr could declare, in line with the prophecy, that “the wild beast . . . is not.” He then asked the question, “Will the League remain in the pit?” Quoting Revelation 17:8, he answered: “The association of worldly nations will rise again.” That is just how it proved to be—in vindication of Jehovah’s prophetic Word! Ascending out of the Abyss 6. (a) When did the scarlet-colored wild beast climb out of the abyss, and with what new name? (b) Why is the United Nations actually a revival of the scarlet-colored wild beast? 6 The scarlet-colored wild beast did indeed climb out of the abyss. On June 26, 1945, with noisy fanfare in San Francisco, U.S.A., 50 nations voted to accept the Charter of the United Nations organization. This body was “to maintain international peace and security.” There were many similarities between the League and the UN. The World Book Encyclopedia notes: “In some ways, the UN resembles the League of Nations, which was organized after World War I . . . Many of the nations that founded the UN had also founded the League. Like the League, the UN was established to help keep peace between nations. The main organs of the UN are much like those of the League.” The UN, then, is actually a revival of the scarlet-colored wild beast. Its membership of some 190 nations far exceeds that of the League’s 63; it has also taken on broader responsibilities than its predecessor. 7. (a) In what way have earth’s dwellers wondered admiringly at the revived scarlet-colored wild beast? (b) What goal has eluded the UN, and what did its secretary-general say in this regard? 7 At first, great hopes were expressed for the UN. This was in fulfillment of the angel’s words: “And when they see how the wild beast was, but is not, and yet will be present, those who dwell on the earth will wonder admiringly, but their names have not been written upon the scroll of life from the founding of the world.” (Revelation 17:8b) Earth’s dwellers have admired this new colossus, operating from its imposing headquarters on New York’s East River. But true peace and security have eluded the UN. For much of the 20th century, world peace was maintained only by the threat of “mutual assured destruction”—MAD, as it is abbreviated—and the arms race has continued to escalate astronomically. After almost 40 years of effort by the United Nations, its then secretary-general, Javier Pérez de Cuéllar, lamented in 1985: “We are living in another age of fanatics, and we don’t know what to do about it.” 8, 9. (a) Why does the UN not have the answers to the world’s problems, and what will shortly happen to it according to God’s decree? (b) Why do the UN’s founders and admirers not have their names recorded in God’s “scroll of life”? (c) What will Jehovah’s Kingdom successfully accomplish? 8 The UN does not have the answers. And why? Because the Giver of life to all mankind is not the UN’s life-giver. Its life span will be short, for according to God’s decree, “it is to go off into destruction.” The UN’s founders and admirers do not have their names recorded in God’s scroll of life. How could sinful, mortal men, many of whom mock God’s name, achieve through the UN what Jehovah God has declared he is about to accomplish, not by human means, but through the Kingdom of his Christ?—Daniel 7:27; Revelation 11:15. 9 The UN is actually a blasphemous counterfeit of God’s Messianic Kingdom by his Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ—to whose princely rule there will be no end. (Isaiah 9:6, 7) Even if the UN were to patch up some temporary peace, wars would soon erupt again. This is in the nature of sinful men. “Their names have not been written upon the scroll of life from the founding of the world.” Jehovah’s Kingdom by Christ will not only establish eternal peace on earth but, on the basis of Jesus’ ransom sacrifice, raise the dead, the righteous and the unrighteous who are in God’s memory. (John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15) This includes everyone who has remained steadfast despite the attacks of Satan and his seed, and others who have yet to show themselves obedient. Obviously, God’s scroll of life will never contain the names of die-hard adherents of Babylon the Great or of any who continued to worship the wild beast.—Exodus 32:33; Psalm 86:8-10; John 17:3; Revelation 16:2; 17:5. Peace and Security—A Vain Hope 10, 11. (a) What did the UN proclaim in 1986, and what was the response? (b) How many “religious families” assembled at Assisi, Italy, to pray for peace, and does God answer such prayers? Explain. 10 In an effort to bolster the hopes of mankind, the United Nations proclaimed 1986 to be an “International Year of Peace,” with the theme “To Safeguard Peace and the Future of Humanity.” Warring nations were called upon to lay down their weapons, at least for one year. What was their response? According to a report by the International Peace Research Institute, as many as five million people were killed as a result of wars during 1986 alone! Though some special coins and commemorative stamps were issued, most of the nations did little about pursuing the ideal of peace in that year. Nevertheless, the world’s religions—always anxious for a fine rapport with the UN—set about publicizing the year in various ways. On January 1, 1986, Pope John Paul II praised the work of the UN and dedicated the new year to peace. And on October 27, he assembled the leaders of many of the world’s religions at Assisi, Italy, to pray for peace. 11 Does God answer such prayers for peace? Well, to which God were those religious leaders praying? If you asked them, each group would give a different answer. Is there a pantheon of millions of gods that can hear and grant petitions made in many different ways? Many of the participants worshipped Christendom’s Trinity.c Buddhists, Hindus, and others chanted prayers to gods without number. In all, 12 “religious families” assembled, being represented by such notables as the Anglican Archbishop of Canterbury, Buddhism’s Dalai Lama, a Russian Orthodox metropolitan, the president of Tokyo’s Shinto Shrine Association, African animists, and two American Indians decked out in plumed headdresses. It was a colorful group, to say the least, making for spectacular TV coverage. One group prayed unceasingly for 12 hours at one time. (Compare Luke 20:45-47.) But did any of those prayers reach beyond the rain clouds that hovered over the gathering? No, for the following reasons: 12. For what reasons did God not answer the prayers for peace of the world’s religious leaders? 12 In contrast with those who “walk in the name of Jehovah,” not one of those religionists was praying to Jehovah, the living God, whose name appears some 7,000 times in the original text of the Bible. (Micah 4:5; Isaiah 42:8, 12)d As a group, they did not approach God in the name of Jesus, the majority of them not even believing in Jesus Christ. (John 14:13; 15:16) None of them are doing God’s will for our day, which is to proclaim worldwide God’s incoming Kingdom—not the UN—as the real hope for mankind. (Matthew 7:21-23; 24:14; Mark 13:10) For the most part, their religious organizations have been involved in the bloody wars of history, including the two world wars of the 20th century. To such, God says: “Even though you make many prayers, I am not listening; with bloodshed your very hands have become filled.”—Isaiah 1:15; 59:1-3. 13. (a) Why is it significant that the world’s religious leaders should join hands with the UN in calling for peace? (b) The cries for peace will culminate in what divinely foretold climax? 13 Further, it is deeply significant that the world’s religious leaders should join hands with the United Nations in calling for peace at this time. They would like to influence the UN to their own advantage, especially in this modern age when so many of their people are abandoning religion. Like the unfaithful leaders in ancient Israel, they call out, “‘There is peace! There is peace!’ when there is no peace.” (Jeremiah 6:14) No doubt their cries for peace will continue, rising in support of the climax concerning which the apostle Paul prophesied: “Jehovah’s day is coming exactly as a thief in the night. Whenever it is that they are saying: ‘Peace and security!’ then sudden destruction is to be instantly upon them just as the pang of distress upon a pregnant woman; and they will by no means escape.”—1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3. 14. What form could the cry of “Peace and security!” take, and how can one avoid being misled by it? 14 In recent years, politicians have used the phrase “peace and security” to describe various human schemes. Do such efforts by world leaders constitute the beginning of the fulfillment of 1 Thessalonians 5:3? Or was Paul referring only to a specific event of such dramatic proportions that it will claim world attention? Since Bible prophecies are often completely understood only after they are fulfilled or in the course of fulfillment, we will have to wait and see. Meanwhile, Christians know that whatever peace and security the nations may appear to have achieved, basically nothing will have changed. Selfishness, hatred, crime, family breakdown, immorality, sickness, sorrow, and death will still be here. That is why no cry of “peace and security” needs to mislead you, if you remain awake to the meaning of world events and heed the prophetic warnings in God’s Word.—Mark 13:32-37; Luke 21:34-36. [Footnotes] a J. F. Rutherford died on January 8, 1942, and N. H. Knorr succeeded him as president of the Watch Tower Society. b On November 20, 1940, Germany, Italy, Japan, and Hungary signed up for a “new League of Nations,” followed four days later by the Vatican’s broadcasting a Mass and a prayer for a religious peace and for a new order of things. That “new League” never materialized. c The Trinity concept stems from ancient Babylon, where the sun-god Shamash, the moon god Sin, and the star god Ishtar were worshipped as a triad. Egypt followed the same pattern, worshipping Osiris, Isis, and Horus. Assyria’s chief god, Asshur, is portrayed as having three heads. Following the same pattern, images are to be found in Catholic churches depicting God as having three heads. d Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of 1993 defines Jehovah God as “a supreme deity recognized and the only deity worshiped by Jehovah’s Witnesses.” [Box on page 250] The “Peace” Paradox Though 1986 was proclaimed by the UN to be the International Year of Peace, the suicidal armaments race escalated. World Military and Social Expenditures 1986 supplies these sobering details: In 1986 global military expenditures reached $900 thousand million. One hour’s global military expenditure would have sufficed to immunize the 3.5 million that died annually from preventable infectious disease. Worldwide, one person in five lived in gnawing poverty. All these starving people could have been fed for one year at the cost of what the world spent for armaments in two days. The explosive energy in the world’s stockpile of nuclear weapons was 160,000,000 times greater than that of the Chernobyl explosion. A nuclear bomb could have been delivered having an explosive power more than 500 times as powerful as the bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945. Nuclear arsenals contained the equivalent of more than one million Hiroshimas. They represented 2,700 times the explosive energy released in World War II, when 38 million people died. Wars had become more frequent and more deadly. War deaths totaled 4.4 million in the 18th century, 8.3 million in the 19th century, 98.8 million in the first 86 years of the 20th century. Since the 18th century, war deaths have increased more than six times faster than the world’s population. There were ten times as many deaths per war in the 20th century as in the 19th. [Pictures on page 247] As prophesied about the scarlet-colored wild beast, the League of Nations was abyssed during World War II but was revived as the United Nations [Pictures on page 249] In support of the UN’s “Year of Peace,” representatives of the world’s religions offered up a babel of prayers at Assisi, Italy, but not one of them prayed to the living God, Jehovah
Purple Triangles Guide (brfi) 2023	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/purple-triangles-guide-brfi	CHILDREN 1 Anneliese Krause (born in January 1938) not only lost her father (beheaded in Berlin-Plötzensee on December 22, 1939) but she was also torn away from her mother. In January 1940, without prior notice, she was picked up from home and taken to a Nazi education school. 2 Berthold Mewes’ (born in 1930) mother was taken to Ravensbrück camp. His father was forced to hand his son over to the officials. Berthold, who met his parents again in 1945 when he was 15 years old, remembers: “The Nazis entrusted me to the care of a childless couple who lived on a small farm. In the morning, I went to school, and in the afternoon, I worked on the farm. Until 1943, I was allowed to write to my parents only once every six months. Then, all correspondence was forbidden.” 3 In 1939, Elisabeth, Paul-Gerhard, and Hans-Werner, the Kusserow family’s three youngest children, were picked up from school and from their home by officials who placed them in reform schools. The school report states: “Conduct: Very good. . . . To this day Paul-Gerhard refuses to give the German salute, and he has not participated in the hoisting of the flag.” 4 After Germany annexed Alsace-Lorraine, Louis Arzt (born in 1930), from Mülhausen, refused to give the Hitler salute. On July 7, 1943, he was taken away from his parents and confined in a Nazi reform school in Weingarten.—(In the group photograph, Louis Arzt is on the bottom right.) 5 The National Socialists took Eugène Jung (born in 1933 in Gomelange, France), his parents, and his five siblings to Upper Silesia. They had refused to give the Hitler salute and to hang swastika flags in the windows of their home. 6 This picture of Simone Arnold was taken shortly before her mother had to take the 11-year-old girl to a reform school near Constance. (The father had already been sent to a concentration camp.) The girl’s shoes were taken away immediately—the children walked barefoot from Easter until fall. The older children had to do hard work in the house and in the garden. Simone recalls: “We never played. We had no personal belongings, and speaking was forbidden. If a pupil was caught, he was severely beaten on his fingers with a stick.”
How Camels Beat the Heat	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101971010	How Camels Beat the Heat ◆ Physiology professor Knut Schmidt-Nielsen conducted a study of camels in the Sahara Desert. His findings reveal how the camel, marvelously designed by the Creator, is able to endure the extreme heat of his environment: “In the burning heat of the desert an inanimate object such as a rock may reach a temperature of more than 150 degrees F. A camel in such an environment, like a man, maintains a tolerable body temperature by sweating. But where the temperature of the man remains virtually constant as the day grows hotter, the temperature of the camel increases slowly to about 105 degrees. As the temperature of the camel rises, the animal sweats very little; only when its temperature reaches 105 degrees does it sweat freely. The camel’s elevated temperature also lessens its absorption of heat, which of course depends on the difference between the temperature of its body and that of the environment. “The camel lowers the heat load on its body still further by letting its temperature fall below normal during the cool desert night. At dawn its temperature may have dropped as low as 93 degrees. Thus much of the day will elapse before the animal’s body heats up to 105 degrees and sweating must set in. As a result of its flexible body temperature the camel sweats little except during the hottest hours of the day, where a man in the same environment perspires almost from sunrise to sunset. . . . “The camel employs camel-hair insulation to lower its heat load still further. Even during the summer, when the camel sheds much of its wool, it retains a layer several inches thick on its back where the sun beats down. When we sheared the wool from one of our camels, we found that the shorn animal produced 60 per cent more sweat than an unshorn one. . . . “The camel’s hump also helps indirectly to lessen the heat load on the animal. Nearly all mammals possess a food reserve in the form of fat, but in most of them the fat is distributed fairly uniformly over the body just beneath the skin. In having its fat concentrated in one place the camel lacks insulation between its body and its skin, where evaporative cooling takes place. The absence of insulation facilitates the flow of heat outward, just as the insulating wool slows the flow of heat inward.”
Young People Ask, Volume 2 (yp2) 2008	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp2	Role Model—Asaph Asaph is going through a difficult time in his life. All around him he sees people breaking God’s laws and seemingly getting away with it! As a result, Asaph wonders if it’s worth putting forth the effort to please God. “Surely it is in vain that I have cleansed my heart and that I wash my hands in innocence itself,” he says. After giving the matter deep thought, though, Asaph changes his mind. He realizes that any enjoyment the wicked experience is only temporary. Asaph’s conclusion? “Besides you,” he tells Jehovah in song, “I do have no other delight on the earth.”—Psalm 73:3, 13, 16, 25, 27. Perhaps at times you have questioned the value of living by God’s standards. But be like Asaph, and look beneath the surface. Consider the situation of those who have disregarded Jehovah’s laws. Are they really at peace? Have they found some secret to happiness that those who are faithful to God have missed? After thinking the matter through, you’ll no doubt be moved to echo the words of Asaph: “The drawing near to God is good for me.”—Psalm 73:28.
WAS IT DESIGNED? The Color-Changing Ability of the Cuttlefish	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102016007	WAS IT DESIGNED? The Color-Changing Ability of the Cuttlefish CUTTLEFISH can change their color and camouflage themselves, becoming almost invisible to the human eye. According to one report, cuttlefish “are known to have a diverse range of body patterns and they can switch between them almost instantaneously.” How do cuttlefish do it? Consider: The cuttlefish changes color by using the chromatophore, a special kind of cell found under its skin. Chromatophores contain sacs that are full of colored pigment and that are surrounded by tiny muscles. When the cuttlefish needs to camouflage itself, its brain sends a signal to contract the muscles around the sacs. Then the sacs and the pigment within them expand, and the cuttlefish quickly changes its color and pattern. The cuttlefish may use this skill not only for camouflage but also to impress potential mates and perhaps communicate. Engineers at the University of Bristol, England, built an artificial cuttlefish skin. They sandwiched disks of black rubber between small devices that function like cuttlefish muscles. When the researchers applied electricity to the skin, the devices flattened and expanded the black disks, darkening and changing the color of the artificial skin. Research on cuttlefish muscles—“the soft structures that nature is so good at making,” according to engineer Jonathan Rossiter—could lead to clothing that changes color in a fraction of a second. Rossiter says that people might wear cuttlefish-inspired clothes for camouflage—or simply for fashion. What do you think? Did the ability of cuttlefish to change color come about by evolution? Or was it designed?
Reasoning (rs) 1989	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/reasoning-rs	Confession Definition: A declaration or an acknowledgment, either publicly or in private, (1) of what a person believes or (2) of his sins. Is the rite of reconciliation, including auricular confession (personal confession into the ear of a priest), as taught by the Catholic Church Scriptural? The manner in which the priest is addressed The traditional formula, still often used, is: “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been [length of time] since my last Confession.”—U.S. Catholic magazine, October 1982, p. 6. Matt. 23:1, 9, JB: “Jesus said, . . . ‘You must call no one on earth your father, since you have only one Father, and he is in heaven.’” Sins that can be forgiven “The Church has always taught that every sin, no matter how serious, can be forgiven.”—The Catholic Encyclopedia (bearing the nihil obstat and the imprimatur), R. C. Broderick (Nashville, Tenn.; 1976), p. 554. Heb. 10:26, JB: “If, after we have been given knowledge of the truth, we should deliberately commit any sins, then there is no longer any sacrifice for them.” Mark 3:29, JB: “Let anyone blaspheme against the Holy Spirit and he will never have forgiveness: he is guilty of an eternal sin.” How penance is to be shown Frequently the confessor directs that the penitent say a specified number of “Our Fathers” and “Hail Marys.” Matt. 6:7, JB: “In your prayers do not babble [that is, utter in a meaninglessly repetitious manner] as the pagans do, for they think that by using many words they will make themselves heard.” Matt. 6:9-12, JB: “You should pray like this: ‘Our Father in heaven, . . . forgive us our debts.’” (Nowhere in the Bible are we commanded to pray to or through Mary. See Philippians 4:6, also pages 258, 259, under “Mary.”) Rom. 12:9, JB: “Do not let your love be a pretence, but sincerely prefer good to evil.” Did not Jesus authorize his apostles to forgive sins? John 20:21-23, JB: “‘As the Father sent me, so am I sending you.’ After saying this he breathed on them and said: ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven; for those whose sins you retain, they are retained.’” How did the apostles understand and apply this? There is no record in the Bible of a single instance in which an apostle listened to a private confession and then pronounced absolution. However, the requirements for being forgiven by God are set out in the Bible. The apostles, under the direction of holy spirit, could discern whether individuals were meeting such requirements and could on this basis declare that God had either forgiven them or not forgiven them. For examples, see Acts 5:1-11, also 1 Corinthians 5:1-5 and 2 Corinthians 2:6-8. See also the main heading “Apostolic Succession.” Viewpoints of scholars as to the origin of auricular confession differ The Catholic Encyclopedia, by R. C. Broderick, states: “Since the fourth century auricular confession has been the accepted method.”—P. 58. The New Catholic Encyclopedia says: “Many contemporary historians, both Catholic and Protestant, trace the origins of private penance as a normal discipline to the churches of Ireland, Wales, and Britain, where the Sacraments, including Penance, were administered usually by the abbot of a monastery and his priest-monks. With the monastic practice of confession and public and private spiritual direction as the model, repeated confession and confession of devotion seem to have been introduced for the laity. . . . However, it was not until the 11th century that secret sins were absolved at the time of confession and before the fulfillment of penance.”—(1967), Vol. XI, p. 75. Historian A. H. Sayce reports: “The ritual texts show that both public and private confession was practised in Babylonia. Indeed, private confession seems to have been the older and more usual method.”—The Religions of Ancient Egypt and Babylonia (Edinburgh, 1902), p. 497. What are the beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses as to confession? Confessing one’s faith by public declaration Rom. 10:9, 10: “If you publicly declare that ‘word in your own mouth,’ that Jesus is Lord, and exercise faith in your heart that God raised him up from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one exercises faith for righteousness, but with the mouth one makes public declaration for salvation.” Matt. 10:32, 33: “Everyone, then, that confesses union with me [Jesus Christ] before men, I will also confess union with him before my Father who is in the heavens; but whoever disowns me before men, I will also disown him before my Father who is in the heavens.” When a person sins against God Matt. 6:6-12: “When you pray, go into your private room and, after shutting your door, pray to your Father who is in secret . . . ‘Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified . . . and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.’” Ps. 32:5: “My sin I finally confessed to you [God], and my error I did not cover. I said: ‘I shall make confession over my transgressions to Jehovah.’ And you yourself pardoned the error of my sins.” 1 John 2:1: “If anyone does commit a sin, we have a helper with the Father, Jesus Christ, a righteous one.” When an individual wrongs his fellowman or when he has been wronged Matt. 5:23, 24: “If, then, you are bringing your gift to the altar and you there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away; first make your peace with your brother, and then, when you have come back, offer up your gift.” Matt. 18:15: “If your brother commits a sin, go lay bare his fault between you and him alone.” Luke 17:3: “If your brother commits a sin give him a rebuke, and if he repents forgive him.” Eph. 4:32: “Become kind to one another, tenderly compassionate, freely forgiving one another just as God also by Christ freely forgave you.” When someone becomes involved in serious wrongdoing and wants spiritual help Jas. 5:14-16: “Is there anyone [spiritually] sick among you? Let him call the older men of the congregation to him, and let them pray over him, greasing him with oil in the name of Jehovah. And the prayer of faith will make the indisposed one well, and Jehovah will raise him up. Also, if he has committed sins, it will be forgiven him [by God]. Therefore openly confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may get healed.” Prov. 28:13: “He that is covering over his transgressions will not succeed, but he that is confessing and leaving them will be shown mercy.” What if persons who commit sins do not seek help? Gal. 6:1: “Brothers, even though a man takes some false step before he is aware of it, you who have spiritual qualifications try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness, as you each keep an eye on yourself, for fear you also may be tempted.” 1 Tim. 5:20: “Reprove before all onlookers [that is, those who personally know about the matter] persons who practice sin, that the rest also may have fear.” 1 Cor. 5:11-13: “Quit mixing in company with anyone called a brother that is a fornicator or a greedy person or an idolater or a reviler or a drunkard or an extortioner, not even eating with such a man. . . . ‘Remove the wicked man from among yourselves.’”
Your Marvelous Red Blood Cells	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102006010	Your Marvelous Red Blood Cells BY AWAKE! WRITER IN SOUTH AFRICA The most common cell in your bloodstream gives blood its red color and is thus called a red blood cell. Just one drop of your blood contains hundreds of millions of such cells. When viewed through a microscope, they look like doughnuts with a depressed center instead of a hole. Each cell is packed with hundreds of millions of hemoglobin molecules. Each hemoglobin molecule is, in turn, a beautiful spherical structure made up of about 10,000 hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur atoms, plus four heavier atoms of iron, which give blood its oxygen-carrying ability. Hemoglobin facilitates the transport of carbon dioxide from the tissues to the lungs, where it is exhaled. Another vital part of your red blood cells is their skin, called a membrane. This marvelous covering enables the cells to stretch into thin shapes so as to pass through your tiniest blood vessels and thus sustain every part of your body. Your red blood cells are manufactured in your bone marrow. Once a new cell enters your bloodstream, it may circulate through your heart and body more than 100,000 times. Unlike other cells, red blood cells have no nucleus. This gives them more space to carry oxygen and makes them lighter, which helps your heart to pump trillions of red blood cells throughout your body. However, lacking a nucleus, they are unable to renew their internal parts. Thus, after about 120 days, your red blood cells begin to deteriorate and lose their elasticity. Large white blood cells called phagocytes consume these worn-out cells and spit out the iron atoms. The scarce iron atoms attach themselves to transport molecules that take them to your bone marrow to be used in the manufacture of new red cells. Every second, your bone marrow releases two million to three million new red cells into your bloodstream! If your trillions of red blood cells were suddenly to stop functioning, you would die within minutes. How thankful we should be to Jehovah God for this marvelous aspect of his creation, which enables us to live and enjoy life! No doubt you agree with the psalmist who said: “O Jehovah, you have searched through me, and you know me. I shall laud you because in a fear-inspiring way I am wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, as my soul is very well aware.”—Psalm 139:1, 14. [Diagram on page 24] (For fully formatted text, see publication) Red blood cell Membrane Hemoglobin (enlarged) Oxygen
ILLUSTRATED BIBLE STORIES Jehovah Strengthens Gideon	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502015214	ILLUSTRATED BIBLE STORIES Jehovah Strengthens Gideon How did Jehovah help Gideon to deal with bullies from Midian? Read the illustrated story online or from a printed PDF. Download 12345
Good News (fg) 2012	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/fg	Good News From God!
Why Don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses Respond to All Accusations Made Against Them?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016255	Why Don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses Respond to All Accusations Made Against Them? Jehovah’s Witnesses follow the Bible’s advice not to respond to all accusations and instances of ridicule. For example, a Bible proverb says: “The one who corrects a ridiculer invites dishonor.” (Proverbs 9:7, 8; 26:4) Rather than being pulled into quarreling by an undue concern over false accusations, we focus on pleasing God.—Psalm 119:69. Of course, there is “a time to be silent and a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:7) We respond to sincere people who are interested in finding out the truth, but we avoid getting into pointless arguments. We thus follow the teachings and examples of Jesus and the early Christians. Jesus made no answer when he was falsely accused before Pilate. (Matthew 27:11-14; 1 Peter 2:21-23) Likewise, Jesus did not respond to accusations of being a drunkard and a glutton. Instead, he let his actions speak for themselves, in harmony with the principle: “Wisdom is vindicated by its results.” (Matthew 11:19, footnote) When the circumstances called for it, though, he boldly responded to those who slandered him.—Matthew 15:1-3; Mark 3:22-30. Jesus taught his followers not to be discouraged by false accusations. He said: “Happy are you when people reproach you and persecute you and lyingly say every sort of wicked thing against you for my sake.” (Matthew 5:11, 12) Yet, Jesus also said that when such accusations opened the way for his followers to give a witness, he would fulfill his promise: “I will give you words and wisdom that all your opposers together will not be able to resist or dispute.”—Luke 21:12-15. The apostle Paul counseled Christians to avoid pointless disputes with opposers, describing such arguments as “unprofitable and futile.”—Titus 3:9; Romans 16:17, 18. The apostle Peter encouraged Christians to defend their faith when possible. (1 Peter 3:15) Yet he recognized that this is often best done by action rather than by word. He wrote: “By doing good you may silence the ignorant talk of unreasonable men.”—1 Peter 2:12-15.
Greed—What Is It Doing to Us?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101997002	Greed—What Is It Doing to Us? GREED is wrecking the lives of millions. It is dehumanizing the greedy and bringing pain and grief to their victims. In your life you may well be feeling the effects of greed. Even common shoplifting increases the prices of what you buy. If your wages are low and the cost of daily essentials is beyond your reach, you are probably a victim of someone else’s greed. The Hungry and the Dying Greedy national self-interest impedes governments’ efforts at effectively helping the poor. As far back as 1952, scientist and nutrition expert Sir John Boyd Orr said: “Governments are prepared to unite men and resources for a world war but the Great Powers are not prepared to unite to banish hunger and poverty from the world.”—Food Poverty & Power, by Anne Buchanan. Some semblance of aid is provided, of course. But what is the reality of life for the poor, neglected majority of the world’s population? A recent report stated that in spite of increased food output in some areas, “hunger and malnutrition still stalk the majority of the world’s poor . . . One-fifth [over one billion] of the world’s people goes hungry every day.” The report goes on to say: “In addition, 2 billion people suffer from ‘hidden hunger’ because of . . . [diet] deficiencies which can lead to serious disorders.” (Developed to Death—Rethinking Third World Development) These figures should certainly make the headlines! The Enslaved Crime bosses enrich themselves at the expense of their victims and the public in general. Drugs, violence, prostitution, and economic exploitation enslave millions. Also, Gordon Thomas says in his book Enslaved: “According to the Anti-Slavery Society, there are an estimated 200 million slaves in the world. Some 100 million of them are children.” What is the basic cause? The report explains: “The urge to enslave remains the dark side of human nature . . . [Slavery is] the product of lust, greed and the love of power.” The powerful dispossess the weak and vulnerable and kill many. “Of the two million Indians who were living in Brazil when the white men first arrived, perhaps two hundred thousand now survive.” (The Naked Savage) Why? The basic reason is greed. The Growing Gap Between Wealthy and Poor The New York Times reported that James Gustave Speth, an administrator in the United Nations Development Program, stated that “an emerging global elite . . . is amassing great wealth and power, while more than half of humanity is left out.” This dangerous gap between rich and poor is made more evident by his words: “We still have more than half the people on the planet with incomes of less than $2 a day—more than 3 billion people.” He added: “For poor people in this two-class world, it is a breeding ground for hopelessness, for anger, for frustration.” This hopelessness is increased by the fact that many of the wealthy appear to have neither a conscience nor any compassion for the plight of the poverty-stricken and hungry masses. The victims of greed are everywhere. See, for example, the bewildered look in the eyes of the refugees caught in the middle of struggles for power in Bosnia, Rwanda, and Liberia. See the resignation in the faces of those starving in the midst of world plenty. What is behind it all? Greed—in one form or another! How can you survive when surrounded by greedy predators in such a hostile environment? The next two articles take up this question.
“All Scripture” (si) 1990	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/all-scripture-si	Studies on the Inspired Scriptures and Their Background Study Number 2—Time and the Holy Scriptures Describing time divisions used in the Bible, the calendars in common use, pivotal dates for the Bible, and interesting points with regard to “the stream of time.” 1, 2. What did Solomon write concerning time, and in view of the fleeting nature of time, what should we do with it? MAN is deeply conscious of the passing of time. With each tick of the clock, he progresses a step farther down time’s corridor. He is wise, indeed, if he makes proper use of his time. As King Solomon wrote: “For everything there is an appointed time, even a time for every affair under the heavens: a time for birth and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to uproot what was planted; a time to kill and a time to heal; a time to break down and a time to build; a time to weep and a time to laugh.” (Eccl. 3:1-4) How fleeting is time! The 70 years of the normal life span is far too short a time for a person to take in the abundance of knowledge and to enjoy all the other good things Jehovah has provided for man on this earth. “Everything he has made pretty in its time. Even time indefinite he has put in their heart, that mankind may never find out the work that the true God has made from the start to the finish.”—Eccl. 3:11; Ps. 90:10. 2 Jehovah himself lives in an eternity of time. As for his creatures, it has pleased him to set them in the stream of time. The angels of heaven, including even the rebellious Satan, are fully aware of the passage of time. (Dan. 10:13; Rev. 12:12) Of mankind it is written, “Time and unforeseen occurrence befall them all.” (Eccl. 9:11) Happy is the man who at all times includes God in his thoughts and who welcomes God’s provision of “food at the proper time”!—Matt. 24:45. 3. What do time and space have in common? 3 Time Is One-Directional. Though time is universal, no man living is able to say what it is. It is as unfathomable as space. No one can explain where the stream of time began or where it is flowing. These things belong to the limitless knowledge of Jehovah, who is described as being God “from time indefinite to time indefinite.”—Ps. 90:2. 4. What can be said as to the movement of time? 4 On the other hand, time has certain characteristics that can be understood. Its apparent rate of flow can be measured. Additionally, it moves in one direction only. Like traffic on a one-way street, time moves relentlessly in that one direction—onward, ever onward. Whatever the speed of its forward movement, time can never be thrown into reverse. We live in a momentary present. However, this present is in motion, flowing continually into the past. There is no stopping it. 5. Why may it be said that the past has been won or lost? 5 The Past. The past is gone, it is history, and it can never be repeated. Any attempt to call back the past is as impossible as trying to make a waterfall tumble uphill or an arrow fly back to the bow that shot it. Our mistakes have left their mark in the stream of time, a mark that only Jehovah can wipe out. (Isa. 43:25) In like manner, a man’s good deeds in the past have made a record that “will come back to him” with blessing from Jehovah. (Prov. 12:14; 13:22) The past has been won or lost. No longer is there any control over it. Of the wicked it is written: “For like grass they will speedily wither, and like green new grass they will fade away.”—Ps. 37:2. 6. How is the future different from the past, and why should we be especially interested in it? 6 The Future. The future is different. It is always flowing toward us. By the help of God’s Word, we can identify obstacles that loom ahead of us and prepare to meet them. We can store up for ourselves “treasures in heaven.” (Matt. 6:20) These treasures will not be swept away by the stream of time. They will stay with us and will endure into an eternal future of blessing. We are interested in the wise use of time, as it affects that future.—Eph. 5:15, 16. 7. What time indicators has Jehovah provided for man? 7 Time Indicators. Our modern-day watches and clocks are time indicators. They serve as rulers for measuring time. In similar manner Jehovah, the Creator, has set in motion giant time indicators—the earth spinning on its axis, the moon revolving around the earth, and the sun—so that from his standpoint on earth, man may be accurately advised of the time. “And God went on to say: ‘Let luminaries come to be in the expanse of the heavens to make a division between the day and the night; and they must serve as signs and for seasons and for days and years.’” (Gen. 1:14) Thus, as a multitude of objects with interlocking purposes, these heavenly bodies move in their perfect cycles, unendingly and unerringly measuring the one-directional movement of time. 8. In what different senses is the word “day” used in the Bible? 8 Day. The word “day” in the Bible is used with several different meanings, even as it has a variety of applications in modern times. As the earth makes one complete rotation on its axis, it measures out one day of 24 hours. In this sense, a day is made up of daytime and nighttime, a total of 24 hours. (John 20:19) However, the daylight period itself, usually averaging 12 hours, is also called day. “And God began calling the light Day, but the darkness he called Night.” (Gen. 1:5) This gives rise to the time term “night,” the period usually averaging 12 hours of darkness. (Ex. 10:13) Another sense is where the word “day(s)” refers to a period of time contemporaneous with some outstanding person. For example, Isaiah saw his vision “in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah” (Isa. 1:1), and the days of Noah and of Lot are mentioned as being prophetic. (Luke 17:26-30) Another example of the flexible or figurative use of the word “day” is Peter’s saying that “one day is with Jehovah as a thousand years.” (2 Pet. 3:8) In the Genesis account, the creative day is an even longer period of time—millenniums. (Gen. 2:2, 3; Ex. 20:11) The Bible context indicates the sense in which the word “day” applies. 9. (a) How did the division of the day into 24 hours of 60 minutes each originate? (b) What time indicators are mentioned in the Hebrew Scriptures? 9 Hour. The division of the day into 24 hours is traced to Egypt. Our modern-day division of the hour into 60 minutes originated from Babylonian mathematics, which was a sexagesimal system (based on the number 60). There is no mention of division into hours in the Hebrew Scriptures.a Instead of dividing the day into specific hours, the Hebrew Scriptures use expressions such as “morning,” “noon,” “midday,” and “evening time” as time indicators. (Gen. 24:11; 43:16; Deut. 28:29; 1 Ki. 18:26) The night was divided into three periods called “the night watches” (Ps. 63:6), two of which are specifically named in the Bible: “the middle night watch” (Judg. 7:19) and “the morning watch.”—Ex. 14:24; 1 Sam. 11:11. 10. How did the Jews count hours in Jesus’ time, and how does knowing this help us fix the time of Jesus’ death? 10 There is, however, frequent mention of the “hour” in the Christian Greek Scriptures. (John 12:23; Matt. 20:2-6) Hours were counted from sunrise, or about 6 a.m. The Bible mentions the “third hour,” which would be about 9 a.m. The “sixth hour” is mentioned as the time when darkness fell on Jerusalem at Jesus’ impalement. This would correspond to our 12 noon. Jesus’ expiration in death on the torture stake is stated to have occurred “about the ninth hour,” or about 3 p.m.—Mark 15:25; Luke 23:44; Matt. 27:45, 46.b 11. How old is the use of the “week” as a measurement of time? 11 Week. It was early in his history that man began to count his days in cycles of seven. In doing this, he followed the example of his Creator, who proceeded to crown his six creative days with a seventh period also called a day. Noah counted days in cycles of seven. In Hebrew, “week” literally refers to a sevenfold unit or period.—Gen. 2:2, 3; 8:10, 12; 29:27. 12. What is a lunar month, and how does it differ from our modern months? 12 Lunar Months. The Bible speaks of “lunar months.” (Ex. 2:2; Deut. 21:13; 33:14; Ezra 6:15) Our modern months are not lunar months, for they are not determined by the moon. They are merely 12 arbitrary divisions of the solar year. A lunar month is a month that is determined by the new moon. There are four phases of the moon, which make up one lunation averaging 29 days, 12 hours, and 44 minutes. One has only to look at the shape of the moon to tell approximately the day of the lunar month. 13. How was the Flood accurately recorded as to time? 13 Instead of using strictly lunar months, Noah appears to have recorded events by months of 30 days each. By the log that Noah kept on the ark, we understand that the waters of the Flood kept overwhelming the earth for a period of five months, or “a hundred and fifty days.” It was after 12 months and 10 days that the earth had dried off so that the ark’s passengers could go out. Thus, those epoch-making events were accurately recorded as to time.—Gen. 7:11, 24; 8:3, 4, 14-19. 14. (a) How did Jehovah make provision for the seasons? (b) How long will the arrangement of seasons continue? 14 Seasons. In preparing the earth for habitation, Jehovah made the wise and loving provision of the seasons. (Gen. 1:14) These follow as a consequence of the earth’s being tilted, or inclined, at a 23.5° angle to the plane of its travel around the sun. This results in first the Southern Hemisphere’s and then, six months later, the Northern Hemisphere’s being tilted toward the sun, so that the seasons proceed in order. This change of the seasons provides for variety and contrast and controls the times for planting and harvesting. God’s Word assures us that this arrangement for change and contrast of the seasons through the year is to continue forever. “For all the days the earth continues, seed sowing and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night, will never cease.”—Gen. 8:22. 15, 16. (a) How may the rainy season in the Promised Land be subdivided? (b) Describe the seasons of the rains and the relationship of these seasons to agricultural activity. 15 The year in the Promised Land can generally be divided into the rainy season and the dry season. From about mid-April to mid-October, very little rain falls. The rainy season may be divided into the early, or “autumn,” rain (October-November); the heavy winter rains and colder weather (December-February); and the late, or “spring,” rain (March-April). (Deut. 11:14; Joel 2:23) These divisions are approximate, the seasons overlapping because of variations in climate in different parts of the land. The early rain softens up the dry ground, so that October-November is the time for “plowing” and for “the sowing of seed.” (Ex. 34:21; Lev. 26:5) During the heavy winter rains from December to February, snowfalls are not uncommon, and in January and February, the temperature may drop below freezing on the higher elevations. The Bible speaks of Benaiah, one of David’s mighty men, as killing a lion “on a day of snowfall.”—2 Sam. 23:20. 16 The months of March and April (approximately the Hebrew months of Nisan and Iyyar) are the months of “the spring rain.” (Zech. 10:1) This is the late rain, which is needed to make the grain planted in autumn swell, so that a good harvest may result. (Hos. 6:3; Jas. 5:7) This is also the season of the early harvest, and God commanded Israel to offer the firstfruits of the harvest on Nisan 16. (Lev. 23:10; Ruth 1:22) It is a time of beauty and delight. “Blossoms themselves have appeared in the land, the very time of vine trimming has arrived, and the voice of the turtledove itself has been heard in our land. As for the fig tree, it has gained a mature color for its early figs; and the vines are abloom, they have given their fragrance.”—Song of Sol. 2:12, 13. 17. (a) How are the crops sustained during the dry season? (b) Consider the chart “The Year of the Israelites” and divide off the year according to seasons as discussed in paragraphs 15-17. (c) When was the early harvest, the grain harvest, and the time when all the fruits were gathered in, and what festivals coincided with these events? 17 About mid-April the dry season begins, but almost throughout this period, and especially on the coastal plains and the western slopes of the mountains, an abundance of dew sustains the summer crops. (Deut. 33:28) During May, grain is harvested, and it was at the end of this month that the Festival of Weeks (Pentecost) was celebrated. (Lev. 23:15-21) Then, as the weather becomes warmer and the ground drier, the grapes on the vines ripen and are harvested, followed by the other summer fruits, such as olives, dates, and figs. (2 Sam. 16:1) With the ending of the dry season and the beginning of the early rains, all the produce of the land has been harvested, and it was then (about the beginning of October) that the Festival of Booths, or Tabernacles, was held.—Ex. 23:16; Lev. 23:39-43. 18. (a) Why is the meaning of the Hebrew word for “year” appropriate? (b) What is the true solar year as regards the earth? 18 Year. Our study of time in the Bible now brings us to the expression “year.” From the beginning of man’s history, it is mentioned. (Gen. 1:14) The Hebrew word for “year,” sha·nahʹ, comes from a root meaning “repeat; do again” and carries the idea of a cycle of time. This was appropriate, since each year the cycle of seasons was repeated. An earthly year is the time it takes for the earth to make one complete revolution, or trip, around the sun. The actual time that it takes for us here on earth to complete this trip is 365 days 5 hours 48 minutes 46 seconds, or approximately 365 1/4 days. This is called the true solar year. 19. (a) How were ancient Bible years reckoned? (b) What “sacred year” did Jehovah later decree? 19 Bible Years. According to the ancient Biblical reckoning, the year ran from autumn to autumn. This was particularly suited to an agricultural life, the year beginning with plowing and sowing, toward the first part of our month of October, and ending with the gathering in of the harvest. Noah counted the year as beginning in the autumn. He recorded the Deluge as beginning “in the second month,” which would correspond to the latter half of October and the first half of November. (Gen. 7:11, footnote) To this day, many peoples of the earth still start their new year in the autumn. At the time of the Exodus from Egypt, in 1513 B.C.E., Jehovah decreed that Abib (Nisan) should become “the start of the months” for the Jews, so that they now had a sacred year, running from spring to spring. (Ex. 12:2) However, Jews in our day observe a secular, or civil, year beginning in the autumn, Tishri being the first month. 20. How was the lunar year adjusted to correspond to the solar year, and what are lunisolar years? 20 Lunisolar Year. Until the time of Christ, most nations used lunar years for counting time, employing various ways of adjusting the year to coincide more or less with the solar year. The common lunar year of 12 lunar months has 354 days, with the months having 29 or 30 days, depending on the appearance of each new moon. The lunar year is therefore about 11 1/4 days short of the true solar year of 365 1/4 days. The Hebrews followed the lunar year. Just how they adjusted this year to coincide with the solar year and the seasons is not explained in the Bible, but they must have added additional, or intercalary, months when needed. The arrangement of intercalary months was later systematized in the fifth century B.C.E. into what is now known as the Metonic cycle. This allowed for the intercalary month to be added seven times every 19 years, and in the Jewish calendar, it was added after the 12th month, Adar, and was called Veadar, or “second Adar.” As the lunar calendar is thus adjusted to the sun, the years, which are of 12 or 13 months, are known as lunisolar years. 21. (a) What is the Julian calendar? (b) Why is the Gregorian calendar more accurate? 21 Julian and Gregorian Calendars. A calendar is a system of fixing the beginning, length, and divisions of the year and arranging these divisions in order. The Julian calendar was introduced by Julius Caesar in 46 B.C.E., to give the Roman people a solar-year time arrangement in place of the lunar year. The Julian calendar consists of 365 days in a year, with the exception that on each fourth year (leap year), one day is added, to make it 366 days. However, in the course of time, it was found that the Julian calendar year is actually a little more than 11 minutes longer than the true solar year. By the 16th century C.E., a discrepancy of ten full days had accumulated. Thus, in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII introduced a slight revision, instituting what is now known as the Gregorian calendar. By papal bull ten days were omitted from the year 1582, so that the day after October 4 became October 15. The Gregorian calendar provides that centuries not divisible by 400 are not to be considered leap years. For example, unlike the year 2000, the year 1900 was not made a leap year because the number 1,900 is not divisible by 400. The Gregorian calendar is now the one in general use in most parts of the world. 22, 23. How long is a prophetic year? 22 Prophetic “Year.” In Bible prophecy the word “year” is often used in a special sense as the equivalent of 12 months, each month having 30 days, for a total of 360 days. Note what one authority says in commenting on Ezekiel 4:5, 6: “We must suppose that Ezekiel knew a year of 360 days. This is neither a true solar year nor is it a lunar year. It is an ‘average’ year in which each month has 30 days.”c 23 A prophetic year is also called a “time,” and a study of Revelation 11:2, 3 and Re 12:6, 14 reveals how one “time” is reckoned as 360 days. In prophecy a year is occasionally also represented symbolically by a “day.”—Ezek. 4:5, 6. 24. How did many ancient peoples start their counting? 24 No Zero Year. Ancient peoples, including the learned Greeks, the Romans, and the Jews, had no concept of zero. To them, everything began counting from one. When you studied Roman numerals in school (I, II, III, IV, V, X, etc.), did you learn a figure for zero? No, because the Romans had none. Since the Romans did not use the number zero, the Common Era began, not with a zero year, but with 1 C.E. This also gave rise to the ordinal arrangement of numbers, such as first (1st), second (2nd), third (3rd), tenth (10th), and hundredth (100th). In modern mathematics, man conceives of everything as starting from nothing, or zero. The zero was probably invented by the Hindus. 25. How do ordinal numbers differ from cardinal numbers? 25 Thus it is that whenever ordinal numbers are used, we must always subtract one to get the full number. For example, when we speak of a date in the 20th century C.E., does it mean that there have been a full 20 centuries? No, it means 19 full centuries plus some years. To express full numbers, the Bible, as well as modern mathematics, employs cardinal numbers, such as 1, 2, 3, 10, and 100. These are also called “whole numbers.” 26. How would you figure (a) the years from October 1, 607 B.C.E., to October 1, 1914 C.E.? (b) 2,520 years from October 1, 607 B.C.E.? 26 Now, since the Common Era did not begin with the year zero but began with 1 C.E., and the calendar for the years before the Common Era did not count back from a zero year but began with 1 B.C.E., the figure used for the year in any date is in reality an ordinal number. That is, 1990 C.E. really represents 1989 full years since the beginning of the Common Era, and the date July 1, 1990, represents 1,989 years plus a half year since the beginning of the Common Era. The same principle applies to B.C.E. dates. So to figure how many years elapsed between October 1, 607 B.C.E., and October 1, 1914 C.E., add 606 years (plus the last three months of the previous year) to 1,913 (plus the first nine months of the next year), and the result is 2,519 (plus 12 months), or 2,520 years. Or if you want to figure what date would be 2,520 years after October 1, 607 B.C.E., remember that 607 is an ordinal number—it really represents 606 full years—and since we are counting, not from December 31, 607 B.C.E., but from October 1, 607 B.C.E., we must add to 606 the three months at the end of 607 B.C.E. Now subtract 606 1/4 from 2,520 years. The remainder is 1,913 3/4. That means that 2,520 years from October 1, 607 B.C.E., takes us 1,913 3/4 years into the Common Era—1,913 full years brings us to the beginning of 1914 C.E., and three fourths of a year in addition brings us to October 1, 1914 C.E.d 27. What are pivotal dates, and why are they of great value? 27 Pivotal Dates. Reliable Bible chronology is based on certain pivotal dates. A pivotal date is a calendar date in history that has a sound basis for acceptance and that corresponds to a specific event recorded in the Bible. It can then be used as the starting point from which a series of Bible events can be located on the calendar with certainty. Once this pivotal point is fixed, calculations forward or backward from this date are made from accurate records in the Bible itself, such as the stated life spans of people or the duration of the reigns of kings. Thus, starting from a pegged point, we can use the reliable internal chronology of the Bible itself in dating many Bible events. 28. What pivotal date is provided for the Hebrew Scriptures? 28 Pivotal Date for the Hebrew Scriptures. A prominent event recorded both in the Bible and in secular history is the overthrow of the city of Babylon by the Medes and Persians under Cyrus. The Bible records this event at Daniel 5:30. Various historical sources (including Diodorus, Africanus, Eusebius, Ptolemy, and the Babylonian tablets) support 539 B.C.E. as the year for the overthrow of Babylon by Cyrus. The Nabonidus Chronicle gives the month and day of the city’s fall (the year is missing). Secular chronologers have thus set the date for the fall of Babylon as October 11, 539 B.C.E., according to the Julian calendar, or October 5 by the Gregorian calendar.e 29. When was Cyrus’ decree issued, allowing opportunity for what? 29 Following the overthrow of Babylon, and during his first year as ruler of conquered Babylon, Cyrus issued his famous decree permitting the Jews to return to Jerusalem. In view of the Bible record, the decree was likely made late in 538 B.C.E. or toward the spring of 537 B.C.E. This would give ample opportunity for the Jews to resettle in their homeland and to come up to Jerusalem to restore the worship of Jehovah in “the seventh month,” Tishri, or about October 1, 537 B.C.E.—Ezra 1:1-4; 3:1-6.f 30. How does a pivotal date along with fulfilled prophecy fix the time of Jesus’ baptism, and of his birth? 30 Pivotal Date for the Christian Greek Scriptures. A pivotal date for the Christian Greek Scriptures is determined by the date that Tiberius Caesar succeeded Emperor Augustus. Augustus died on August 17, 14 C.E. (Gregorian calendar); Tiberius was named emperor by the Roman Senate on September 15, 14 C.E. It is stated at Luke 3:1, 3 that John the Baptizer began his ministry in the 15th year of Tiberius’ reign. If the years were counted from the death of Augustus, the 15th year ran from August of 28 C.E. to August of 29 C.E. If counted from when Tiberius was named emperor by the Senate, the year ran from September of 28 C.E. to September of 29 C.E. Soon after this, Jesus, who was about six months younger than John the Baptizer, came to be baptized, when he was “about thirty years old.” (Luke 3:2, 21-23; 1:34-38) This agrees with the prophecy at Daniel 9:25 that 69 “weeks” (prophetic weeks of 7 years each, thus totaling 483 years) would elapse from “the going forth of the word to restore and to rebuild Jerusalem” and its wall until the appearance of Messiah. (Dan. 9:24, footnote) That “word” was authorized by Artaxerxes (Longimanus) in 455 B.C.E. and was put into effect by Nehemiah in Jerusalem in the latter part of that year. And 483 years later, in the latter part of 29 C.E., when he was baptized by John, Jesus was also anointed by holy spirit from God, thus becoming the Messiah, or Anointed One. That Jesus was baptized and began his ministry in the latter part of the year also agrees with the prophecy that he was to be cut off “at the half of the week” of years (or after three and a half years). (Dan. 9:27) Since he died in the spring, his ministry of three and a half years must have begun toward the fall of 29 C.E.g Incidentally, these two lines of evidence also prove that Jesus was born in the autumn of 2 B.C.E., since Luke 3:23 shows that Jesus was about 30 years of age when he commenced his work.h 31. (a) Why does the rate of the passage of time appear to vary? (b) What advantage do young people therefore have? 31 How Time Moves Faster. There is an old saying that “a watched kettle never boils.” It is true that when we are watching time, when we are conscious of it, when we are waiting for something to happen, then it seems to pass ever so slowly. However, if we are busy, if we are interested in and preoccupied with what we are doing, then it really appears that “time flies.” Moreover, with older people time seems to pass much more quickly than with young children. Why is this? One year added to the life of a one-year-old means a 100-percent increase in life’s experiences. One year added to the life of a 50-year-old means just 2 percent more. To the child, a year seems a long, long time. The older person, if busy and in good health, finds that the years seem to fly faster and faster. He comes to a deeper understanding of Solomon’s words: “There is nothing new under the sun.” On the other hand, young people still have the seemingly slower, formative years with them. Instead of “striving after wind” with a materialistic world, they may use these years profitably in piling up a wealth of godly experience. Timely are Solomon’s further words: “Remember, now, your Grand Creator in the days of your young manhood, before the calamitous days proceed to come, or the years have arrived when you will say: ‘I have no delight in them.’”—Eccl. 1:9, 14; 12:1. 32. How may humans come to appreciate more fully Jehovah’s view of time? 32 Time—When People Live Forever. However, there are joyous days ahead that will be far from calamitous. Lovers of righteousness, whose ‘times are in Jehovah’s hand,’ may look forward to everlasting life in the realm of God’s Kingdom. (Ps. 31:14-16; Matt. 25:34, 46) Under the Kingdom, death will be no more. (Rev. 21:4) Idleness, illness, boredom, and vanity will have vanished. There will be work to do, absorbing and intriguing, calling for expression of man’s perfect abilities and bringing intense satisfaction in accomplishment. The years will seem to flow faster and faster, and appreciative and retentive minds will be continually enriched with memories of happy events. As millenniums pass, humans on this earth will no doubt come to appreciate more fully Jehovah’s view of time: ‘For a thousand years in Jehovah’s eyes are but as yesterday when it is past.’—Ps. 90:4. 33. With regard to time, what blessing has Jehovah commanded? 33 Viewing the stream of time from our present human standpoint and taking into account God’s promise of a new world of righteousness, how joyous in prospect are the blessings of that day: “For there Jehovah commanded the blessing to be, even life to time indefinite”!—Ps. 133:3. [Footnotes] a The word “hour” appears in the King James Version at Daniel 3:6, 15; 4:19, 33; 5:5, from the Aramaic; however, Strong’s Concordance, Hebrew and Chaldee Dictionary, gives the meaning of the word as “a look, i.e. a moment.” It is translated “moment” in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. b See footnotes on these scriptures. c Biblical Calendars, 1961, by J. Van Goudoever, page 75. d Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 1, page 458. e Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 1, pages 453-4, 458; Vol. 2, page 459. f Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 1, page 568. g Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, pages 899-902. h Insight on the Scriptures, Vol. 2, pages 56-8. [Chart on page 281] THE YEAR OF THE ISRAELITES Name of Month Nisan (Abib) Corresponds to March - April Sacred Year 1st month Secular Year 7th month Citations Ex. 13:4; Neh. 2:1 Festivals Nisan 14 Passover Nisan 15-21 Festival of Unfermented Cakes Nisan 16 Offering of firstfruits Name of Month Iyyar (Ziv) Corresponds to April - May Sacred Year 2nd month Secular Year 8th month Citations 1 Ki. 6:1 Name of Month Sivan Corresponds to May - June Sacred Year 3rd month Secular Year 9th month Citations Esther 8:9 Festivals Sivan 6 Festival of Weeks (Pentecost) Name of Month Tammuz Corresponds to June - July Sacred Year 4th month Secular Year 10th month Citations Jer. 52:6 Name of Month Ab Corresponds to July - August Sacred Year 5th month Secular Year 11th month Citations Ezra 7:8 Name of Month Elul Corresponds to August - September Sacred Year 6th month Secular Year 12th month Citations Neh. 6:15 Name of Month Tishri (Ethanim) Corresponds to September - October Sacred Year 7th month Secular Year 1st month Citations 1 Ki. 8:2 Festivals Tishri 1 Day of the trumpet blast Tishri 10 Day of Atonement Tishri 15-21 Festival of Booths Tishri 22 Solemn assembly Name of Month Heshvan (Bul) Corresponds to October - November Sacred Year 8th month Secular Year 2nd month Citations 1 Ki. 6:38 Name of Month Chislev Corresponds to November - December Sacred Year 9th month Secular Year 3rd month Citations Neh. 1:1 Name of Month Tebeth Corresponds to December - January Sacred Year 10th month Secular Year 4th month Citations Esther 2:16 Name of Month Shebat Corresponds to January - February Sacred Year 11th month Secular Year 5th month Citations Zech. 1:7 Name of Month Adar Corresponds to February - March Sacred Year 12th month Secular Year 6th month Citations Esther 3:7 Name of Month Veadar Corresponds to (Intercalary month) Sacred Year 13th month
Greatest Man (gt) 1991	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt	Chapter 68 Further Teaching on the Seventh Day THE last day of the Festival of Tabernacles, the seventh day, is still in progress. Jesus is teaching in the portion of the temple termed “the treasury.” This is apparently in the area called the Court of Women where there are chests in which people deposit their contributions. Every night during the festival, there is a special illumination display in this area of the temple. Four giant lampstands are installed here, each with four large basins filled with oil. The light from these lamps, burning oil from the 16 basins, is strong enough to illuminate the surroundings to a great distance at night. What Jesus now says may remind his listeners of this display. “I am the light of the world,” Jesus proclaims. “He that follows me will by no means walk in darkness, but will possess the light of life.” The Pharisees object: “You bear witness about yourself; your witness is not true.” In answer Jesus replies: “Even if I do bear witness about myself, my witness is true, because I know where I came from and where I am going. But you do not know where I came from and where I am going.” He adds: “I am one that bears witness about myself, and the Father who sent me bears witness about me.” “Where is your Father?” the Pharisees want to know. “You know neither me nor my Father,” Jesus answers. “If you did know me, you would know my Father also.” Even though the Pharisees still want Jesus arrested, no one touches him. “I am going away,” Jesus again says. “Where I am going you cannot come.” At this the Jews begin to wonder: “He will not kill himself, will he? Because he says, ‘Where I am going you cannot come.’” “You are from the realms below,” Jesus explains. “I am from the realms above. You are from this world; I am not from this world.” Then he adds: “If you do not believe that I am he, you will die in your sins.” Jesus, of course, is referring to his prehuman existence and his being the promised Messiah, or Christ. Nevertheless, they ask, no doubt with great contempt: “Who are you?” In the face of their rejection, Jesus answers: “Why am I even speaking to you at all?” Yet he goes on to say: “He that sent me is true, and the very things I heard from him I am speaking in the world.” Jesus continues: “When once you have lifted up the Son of man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing of my own initiative; but just as the Father taught me I speak these things. And he that sent me is with me; he did not abandon me to myself, because I always do the things pleasing to him.” When Jesus says these things, many put faith in him. To these he says: “If you remain in my word, you are really my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” “We are Abraham’s offspring,” his opposers chime in, “and never have we been slaves to anybody. How is it you say, ‘You will become free’?” Although the Jews have often been under foreign domination, they do not acknowledge any oppressor as master. They refuse to be called slaves. But Jesus points out that they are indeed slaves. In what way? “Most truly I say to you,” Jesus says, “every doer of sin is a slave of sin.” Refusing to admit their slavery to sin puts the Jews in a dangerous position. “The slave does not remain in the household forever,” Jesus explains. “The son remains forever.” Since a slave has no inheritance rights, he may be in danger of dismissal at any time. Only the son actually born or adopted into the household remains “forever,” that is, as long as he lives. “Therefore if the Son sets you free,” Jesus continues, “you will be actually free.” Thus, the truth that sets people free is the truth regarding the Son, Jesus Christ. It is only by means of the sacrifice of his perfect human life that anyone can be freed from death-dealing sin. John 8:12-36. ▪ Where does Jesus teach on the seventh day? What occurs at night there, and how does this relate to Jesus’ teaching? ▪ What does Jesus say about his origin, and what should this reveal about his identity? ▪ In what way are the Jews slaves, but what truth will set them free?
From Our Readers	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101994012	From Our Readers Divorce Right after our second anniversary, my husband had an affair with a close friend of mine. Two years later he left me. So when I saw the cover of the July 8, 1993, Awake! with the input “Divorce—The Door to a Happier Life?,” I was less than enthused. At times it’s difficult for me to study material emphasizing family life. However, I found it encouraging to read that eventually “an innocent mate may emerge from the ordeal a stronger, more vital, whole person.” I wouldn’t say I’m at that point yet, but I’m making progress. I have been in a very deep depression. But the abundance of information you have provided in other issues on depression has helped my congregation elders support me through some very terrible times. Thank you for all the help you are providing through the magazines. D. P., United States Stepparents When I read your article “Tips for Stepparents” (July 8, 1993), I just had to write. I am ten years old, and I live with my mother. My dad remarried, so now I have a stepmother. When I read how other kids felt about stepparents, I thought, ‘My feelings exactly!’ I am glad that one of your tips was to beware of jealousy. A lot of times, I view my stepmother as a competitor. My dad sometimes makes me feel like he loves my stepmother much more than he’s ever loved me. I hope my dad and stepmother will read this wonderful article and be more understanding toward me. V. N., United States Copper Mining I read your magazines from time to time with interest. However, I wondered about the article “The Biggest Man-Made Hole in the World.” (March 8, 1993) How could you put this copper mine in such a positive light? Does not the Bible say God will destroy those who ruin the earth? H. Y., England We are well aware of the environmental impact made by open-pit mining. Nevertheless, our article merely reported on this copper mine as an item of interest, not as a promotion of the mining industry. In all fairness, though, it must be acknowledged that the electrical industry—indeed, the public in general—has become dependent upon copper. And the vast majority of copper used in the United States is unearthed in open-pit mines. It would be unjust, then, to blame solely the copper industry for the environmental damage that results. This complex situation serves as another illustration of the need for God’s Kingdom to take over the management of earth’s affairs.—ED. Daydreaming I am 11 years old, and I want to thank you for the “Young People Ask . . .” articles on daydreaming. (July 8 and July 22, 1993) I always dreamed about being someone else, and you’ve helped me appreciate that instead of daydreaming about being liked, I should work at being likable. J. K., United States Upon reading the articles, I broke down in tears. Most of my time was spent daydreaming—usually about being famous or about boys or sex. This would happen even at Christian meetings. Daydreams were taking over my life. I would stay away from my family and friends and be off to myself up in my room. I was miserable and ashamed of myself. Now I have taken your advice to heart and put it to use. Sometimes these thoughts return, but now I fill my mind with other thoughts or work at one of my hobbies, and the thoughts go away. Thank you so much. T. P., United States
Examining the Scriptures—2017 2016	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/examining-the-scriptures/examining-the-scriptures-2017	How to Use This Booklet On the following pages, you will find a scripture for each day and comments on that text. Although the text and comments may be read at any time, many find it advantageous to consider them in the morning. Then they can reflect on such thoughts throughout the day. Discussing the text as a family is most beneficial. Bethel families around the world do so at breakfast time. The comments are taken from the Watchtower (w) issues of April 2015 through March 2016. Figures following the date of the Watchtower issue refer to the number, in order, of each study article (1, 2, 3, 4, or 5) that appears in that issue. This is followed by the paragraphs where the material is found. (See illustration below.) Additional information on the subject matter can be found in the article itself. To find where each article starts, see the first or second page of that issue of The Watchtower.
Proclaimers (jv) 1993	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/jv	Publishing The Watchtower When first produced, in July 1879, it was called Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence. This magazine, which was a champion of the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ, was published to serve spiritual food to the household of faith. On January 1, 1909, the input was changed to The Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence, in order to focus attention more clearly on the objective of the magazine. As of January 1, 1939, putting increased emphasis on the fact that Christ was already ruling from heaven as King, the input was altered to read The Watchtower and Herald of Christ’s Kingdom. Then on March 1, 1939, by changing the input to The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom, attention was directed more prominently to Jehovah as the Universal Sovereign, the one who gave ruling authority to his Son. When first published, the Watch Tower was an eight-page paper, produced once a month. The size was increased to 16 pages in 1891, and it became a semimonthly magazine in 1892. A 32-page format was adopted for many languages in 1950. Translation of the Watch Tower into other languages began slowly. A single sample issue was published in Swedish in 1883 for use as a tract. From 1886 to 1889, a small-sized edition of the magazine was printed in German. But it was not until 1897 that the Watch Tower appeared again in German and continued to be published on a consistent basis. By 1916 it was being printed in seven languages—Dano-Norwegian, English, Finnish, French, German, Polish, and Swedish. When the preaching of the good news took on greater momentum in 1922, the number of languages in which the magazine was published was increased to 16. As of 1993, however, it was being regularly produced in 112 languages—those used by a large proportion of earth’s population. This included not only languages such as English, Spanish, and Japanese, in which millions of copies per issue were printed, but also Palauan, Tuvaluan, and others in which only a few hundred were being distributed. For many years The Watchtower was viewed as a magazine largely for the “little flock” of consecrated Christians. Its circulation was somewhat limited; by 1916 only 45,000 copies were being printed. But beginning in 1935, repeated emphasis was placed on encouraging “the Jonadabs,” or “great crowd,” to obtain and read The Watchtower regularly. In 1939, when the cover of the magazine began to highlight the Kingdom, subscriptions for The Watchtower were offered to the public during a four-month international subscription campaign. As a result, the subscription list rose to 120,000. The following year The Watchtower was being regularly offered to people on the streets. Circulation increased rapidly. By early 1993 the printing per issue in all languages was 16,400,000.
HOW YOUR DONATIONS ARE USED Producing the Most Important Book of All	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502500205	HOW YOUR DONATIONS ARE USED Producing the Most Important Book of All JANUARY 1, 2021 “I have been waiting for this for 19 long years!” What was our fellow believer waiting for? The New World Translation of the Christian Greek Scriptures in his own language, Bengali. Many people react similarly when the New World Translation is released in their language. But have you ever wondered what is involved in translating and producing these Bibles? First, a translation team is assigned under the direction of the Writing Committee of the Governing Body. How long does it take a team to translate the Bible? Nicholas Ahladis, who works with Translation Services in Warwick, New York, explains: “There are many factors, including how many translators are available for the project, how complex the language is, and how well its readers understand Biblical culture, as well as whether the language varies from region to region. On average, it takes a team anywhere from one to three years to translate just the Christian Greek Scriptures and typically four or more years to translate the entire Bible. The process takes even longer for sign languages.” More than the translation team is needed to translate the Bible. A group of outside readers from various backgrounds—and sometimes different countries—review the translation, offering their services at no cost. Their feedback helps the translators to produce a Bible that is accurate, clear, and meaningful. After all, as a Bible translation trainer in South Africa puts it, “translators feel an enormous weight of responsibility toward Jehovah and the readers of his Word.” After translation is complete, the Bibles must be printed and bound. To that end, printeries use at least ten “ingredients”: paper, ink, cover material, adhesive, cover liners, silver leaf, ribbons, headbands, spine stiffeners, and a capping material to help bind the Bible together. In 2019, a total of over 20 million dollars (U.S.) was spent on just these materials for Bible production. Our Printery personnel worked more than 300,000 hours during that year to produce and ship Bibles. “The Bible is the most important publication that we produce” Why devote so much time and money to those tasks? “The Bible is the most important publication that we produce,” says Joel Blue of the International Printing Department. “So we want its appearance to glorify the God we worship and the message we preach.” Besides standard editions of the New World Translation, we also produce editions for readers with special needs. For example, the braille New World Translation is available in ten languages. One complete braille Bible can take up to eight hours to emboss, and its many volumes require at least 2.3 meters (7.5 ft) of shelf space. We also produce a special edition of the Bible for inmates of prisons where only paper-covered books are permitted. The New World Translation affects the lives of its readers. Consider the Kiluba-language congregation in a place called Tombe, which is in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Tombe is over 1,700 kilometers (1,000 mi) by road from the nation’s capital. Only one Bible was available to the Witnesses there, and it was in an archaic form of Kiluba. That lone Bible was passed from one brother to another so that they could prepare meeting parts. But since August 2018, complete and modern-language copies of the New World Translation in Kiluba have been available to everyone in the congregation. A German-speaking sister says about the revised New World Translation in her language: “I no longer say that I have to read the Bible. Instead, I ask myself, ‘When can I read more?’” A prisoner wrote: “I was given a copy of the New World Translation, and it is changing my life. I have never understood God’s Word as well as I have since reading this translation. I would like to know more about Jehovah’s Witnesses and how to become one.” All readers of the New World Translation are grateful for the donations that support its production. These donations to the worldwide work have been made by means of the methods found on donate.jw.org. Thank you for your generosity.
Greatest Man (gt) 1991	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt	Chapter 90 The Resurrection Hope JESUS finally arrives at the outskirts of Bethany, a village about two miles [3 km] from Jerusalem. It has only been a few days since Lazarus’ death and burial. His sisters Mary and Martha are still mourning, and many have come to their home to console them. While they are mourning, someone informs Martha that Jesus is on his way. So she leaves and hurries to meet him, apparently without telling her sister. Coming to Jesus, Martha repeats what she and her sister must have said many times during the past four days: “If you had been here my brother would not have died.” Martha, however, expresses hope, hinting that Jesus might yet do something for her brother. “I know that as many things as you ask God for, God will give you,” she says. “Your brother will rise,” Jesus promises. Martha understands Jesus to be speaking of a future earthly resurrection, to which Abraham and other servants of God also looked forward. So she replies: “I know he will rise in the resurrection on the last day.” However, Jesus gives hope for immediate relief, replying: “I am the resurrection and the life.” He reminds Martha that God has given him power over death, saying: “He that exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life; and everyone that is living and exercises faith in me will never die at all.” Jesus is not suggesting to Martha that faithful ones then alive will never die. No, but the point he is making is that exercising faith in him can lead to everlasting life. Such life will be enjoyed by most people as a result of their being resurrected on the last day. But others who are faithful will survive the end of this system of things on earth, and for these Jesus’ words will be true in a very literal sense. They will never die at all! After this remarkable statement, Jesus asks Martha, “Do you believe this?” “Yes, Lord,” she answers. “I have believed that you are the Christ the Son of God, the One coming into the world.” Martha then hurries back to summon her sister, telling her privately: “The Teacher is present and is calling you.” Immediately Mary leaves the house. When others see her go, they follow, assuming that she is going to the memorial tomb. Coming to Jesus, Mary falls at his feet weeping. “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died,” she says. Jesus is deeply moved when he sees that Mary and the crowds of people following her are weeping. “Where have you laid him?” he asks. “Lord, come and see,” they answer. Jesus too gives way to tears, causing the Jews to say: “See, what affection he used to have for him!” Some recall that Jesus, at the time of the Festival of Tabernacles a few months before, had healed a young man born blind, and they ask: “Was not this man that opened the eyes of the blind man able to prevent this one from dying?” John 5:21; 6:40; 9:1-7; 11:17-37. ▪ When does Jesus finally arrive near Bethany, and what is the situation there? ▪ What basis does Martha have for belief in a resurrection? ▪ How is Jesus affected by Lazarus’ death?
Table of outputs	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102020003	Table of outputs 3 Are You Stressed? 4 What Causes Stress? 5 What Is Stress? 8 How to Deal With Stress 14 A Stress-Free Life Is Possible 16 “A Calm Heart Gives Life to the Body”
Is Gambling a Sin?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016127	Is Gambling a Sin? The Bible’s answer Although the Bible does not discuss gambling in detail, we can discern from Bible principles that God views gambling as a sin.—Ephesians 5:17.a Gambling is driven by greed, which God hates. (1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Ephesians 5:3, 5) Gamblers hope to gain money through the losses of others, but the Bible condemns coveting other people’s possessions.—Exodus 20:17; Romans 7:7; 13:9, 10. Gambling, even for small amounts, can arouse a destructive love of money.—1 Timothy 6:9, 10. Gamblers often rely on superstitions or luck. However, God views such beliefs as a form of idolatry, which is incompatible with his worship.—Isaiah 65:11. Rather than promote a desire to get something for nothing, the Bible encourages hard work. (Ecclesiastes 2:24; Ephesians 4:28) Those who follow the Bible’s advice can “eat food they themselves earn.”—2 Thessalonians 3:10, 12. Gambling can arouse an unhealthy competitive spirit, which is disapproved in the Bible.—Galatians 5:26. a Gambling is specifically mentioned in the Bible only in connection with the Roman soldiers who cast lots, or “gambled,” for Jesus’ clothing.—Matthew 27:35; John 19:23, 24; Contemporary English Version; Good News Translation.
Who Was Abraham?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2012001	Who Was Abraham? FEW men have had greater impact on the world’s religions. Revered by Jews, Muslims, and Christians alike, Abrahama has been described as “a giant in Scripture” and as “a towering example of faith.” The Bible calls him “the father of all those having faith.”—Romans 4:11. Why is Abraham so highly regarded? For one thing, Abraham has the distinction of being the only person whom the Bible directly refers to as God’s friend—and three times at that!—2 Chronicles 20:7, footnote; Isaiah 41:8; James 2:23. In other ways, however, Abraham was an ordinary person like us. He faced many of the same struggles that we do—and he met them successfully. Would you like to know how he did so? Consider what the Bible reveals about this remarkable man. His Background Born in the year 2018 B.C.E., Abraham grew up in Ur. (Genesis 11:27-31) Ur was a large and prosperous city. It was also steeped in idol worship. Abraham’s father, Terah, may have been among those who worshipped various idols. (Joshua 24:2) Yet, Abraham chose to direct his worship solely to Jehovahb rather than to the lifeless idols of other gods. What moved Abraham to make that decision? Well, his life overlapped that of Noah’s son Shem by 150 years. If he associated with that much-older man, how might he have been affected? Abraham could have learned firsthand from Shem what it was like to survive the global Flood. He may also have learned the importance of worshipping Jehovah, the God who had preserved Shem and his family through that Deluge. Whether it was through Shem or by some other means, Abraham responded favorably to what he learned about the true God. When Jehovah, “the examiner of hearts,” observed Abraham, he saw something good in the man—and he helped to make the good grow.—Proverbs 17:3; 2 Chronicles 16:9. His Life Abraham lived a full and exciting life, one that was often challenging but never meaningless. Consider just a few of the things he experienced. ▪ While Abraham was living in Ur, God directed him to leave the land of his birth and head out to a land that He would show him. Although Abraham and Sarah did not know all the details—where they were going or why God was asking them to leave—they obeyed. Abraham and Sarah eventually came to dwell in tents in the land of Canaan, living as sojourners for the rest of their lives.—Acts 7:2, 3; Hebrews 11:8, 9, 13. ▪ While Abraham and Sarah were still childless, Jehovah promised to make a great nation out of Abraham. Jehovah added that all the families of the earth would be blessed by means of Abraham. (Genesis 11:30; 12:1-3) Jehovah later affirmed that promise. He told Abraham that his offspring would become numerous, like the stars of heaven.—Genesis 15:5, 6. ▪ When Abraham was 99 years old and Sarah was nearing 90, Jehovah promised that they would have a son. That seemed impossible from a human standpoint, but Abraham and Sarah soon learned that nothing is “too extraordinary for Jehovah.” (Genesis 18:14) One year later, at the age of 100, Abraham became father to a son, whom he named Isaac. (Genesis 17:21; 21:1-5) God specifically promised that through Isaac, great blessings would come to mankind. ▪ A number of years later, Jehovah made a very unusual request of Abraham: He asked Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac, although the young man was unmarried and had no children.c Though the prospect of losing his son must have pained him, Abraham prepared to obey and offer Isaac as a sacrifice. Abraham firmly believed that God had the power to resurrect Isaac, if necessary, in order to make His promises come true. (Hebrews 11:19) At the crucial moment when Abraham was about to offer up his son, God intervened, sparing Isaac’s life. He commended Abraham for his outstanding obedience. Jehovah then repeated his earlier promises to Abraham.—Genesis 22:1-18. ▪ After 175 years of life, Abraham fell asleep in death. He “died in a good old age,” says the Bible, adding that he was “old and satisfied.” (Genesis 25:7, 8) Abraham thus experienced the fulfillment of another promise made by God—namely, that he would enjoy a long life before dying in peace.—Genesis 15:15. His Legacy Abraham is far more than a religious or historical figure from the distant past. To this day, his story lives, providing a rich example for all of us to imitate. (Hebrews 11:8-10, 17-19) Let us consider four of the good qualities that Abraham displayed. We will begin with what is perhaps his best-known quality—faith. [Footnotes] a Originally, Abraham was known as Abram and his wife was known as Sarai. Later, God changed Abram’s name to Abraham, meaning “Father of a Multitude,” and he changed Sarai’s name to Sarah, meaning “Princess.” (Genesis 17:5, 15) For simplicity, in this series of articles, we will refer to them as Abraham and Sarah. b Jehovah is the name of God as revealed in the Bible. c See the article “Our Readers Ask . . . Why Did God Ask Abraham to Sacrifice His Son?” on page 23 of this issue. [Box on page 4] A Pivotal Character in Bible History In its first ten chapters, the Bible book of Genesis recounts the life histories of several men of faith, including Abel, Enoch, and Noah. Yet, it devotes most of the next 15 chapters to the life of one man—Abraham. Moreover, the Bible first mentions some of its most important concepts in connection with Abraham. For example, in Abraham’s life story we find . . . ▪ the first reference to God as a Shield for, or Protector of, his servants.—Genesis 15:1; see Deuteronomy 33:29; Psalm 115:9; Proverbs 30:5. ▪ the first mention of putting faith in God.—Genesis 15:6. ▪ the first occurrence of the word prophet.—Genesis 20:7. ▪ the first reference to a parent’s love.—Genesis 22:2.
Jehovah’s Witnesses (jt) 2000	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/jehovahs-witnesses-jt	Ways They Use to Share the Good News CHRISTIANS are commanded to “make disciples of people of all the nations,” but this does not mean that they are to use pressure or convert others by force. Jesus’ commission was to “tell good news to the meek ones,” to “bind up the brokenhearted,” to “comfort all the mourning ones.” (Matthew 28:19; Isaiah 61:1, 2; Luke 4:18, 19) Jehovah’s Witnesses seek to do this by declaring the good news from the Bible. Like the prophet Ezekiel of old, Jehovah’s Witnesses today try to find those who “are sighing and groaning over all the detestable things that are being done.”—Ezekiel 9:4. The best-known way they use to find those who are distressed by present conditions is by going from house to house. Thus they make a positive effort to reach the public, just as Jesus did when “he went journeying from city to city and from village to village, preaching and declaring the good news of the kingdom of God.” His early disciples did likewise. (Luke 8:1; 9:1-6; 10:1-9) Today, where it is possible, Jehovah’s Witnesses endeavor to call at each home several times a year, seeking to converse with the householder for a few minutes on some local or world topic of interest or concern. A scripture or two may be offered for consideration, and if the householder shows interest, the Witness may arrange to call back at a convenient time for further discussion. Bibles and literature explaining the Bible are made available, and if the householder desires, a home Bible study is conducted free of charge. Millions of these helpful Bible studies are conducted regularly with individuals and families throughout the world. Another way in which “the good news of the kingdom” is told to others is through meetings held at local Kingdom Halls. The Witnesses conduct meetings there weekly. One meeting is a public lecture on a subject of current interest, followed by a study of some Biblical theme or prophecy, using the Watchtower magazine as source material. Another meeting is a school for training Witnesses to be better proclaimers of the good news, followed by a part devoted to discussing the witnessing work in the local territory. Also, once a week Witnesses assemble in private homes, in small groups, for Bible studies. All these meetings are open to the public. No collections are ever taken. Such meetings are beneficial for all. The Bible says: “We ought to see how each of us may best arouse others to love and active goodness, not staying away from our meetings, as some do, but rather encouraging one another, all the more because you see the Day drawing near.” Private study and research are necessary, but meeting with others is stimulating: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens the wits of another.”—Hebrews 10:24, 25; Proverbs 27:17, The New English Bible. The Witnesses also make good use of openings for talking about the good news as they come in contact with other people in their daily lives. It may be a few words exchanged with a neighbor or with a fellow traveler on a bus or a plane, a longer conversation with a friend or a relative, or a discussion with a fellow worker during lunch hour. Much of the witnessing that Jesus did when he was on earth was of this kind—as he walked along the seashore, sat on a hillside, dined at someone’s home, attended a wedding, or traveled in a fishing boat on the Sea of Galilee. He taught in the synagogues and at the temple in Jerusalem. Wherever he was, he found opportunities to talk about God’s Kingdom. Jehovah’s Witnesses endeavor to follow in his footsteps in this regard also.—1 Peter 2:21. PREACHING BY EXAMPLE None of these ways of telling you the good news would be meaningful to you if the one telling you did not apply the teachings to himself. To say one thing and do another is hypocrisy, and religious hypocrisy has turned millions away from the Bible. The Bible is not rightly blamed. The scribes and Pharisees had the Hebrew Scriptures, but Jesus denounced them as hypocrites. He spoke of their reading from the Law of Moses, then added to his disciples: “All the things they tell you, do and observe, but do not do according to their deeds, for they say but do not perform.” (Matthew 23:3) A Christian’s being an example of right living says more than hours of sermonizing. This was pointed out to Christian wives who had unbelieving husbands: “They may be won without a word through the conduct of their wives, because of having been eyewitnesses of your chaste conduct.”—1 Peter 3:1, 2. Therefore, Jehovah’s Witnesses try to recommend the good news to others in this way also: by being exemplary in the Christian conduct that they recommend to others. They try to ‘do unto others as they would have others do unto them.’ (Matthew 7:12) They try to be this way with all men, not just with fellow Witnesses, friends, neighbors, or relatives. Being imperfect, they do not always succeed 100 percent. But it is the desire of their hearts to do good unto all people not only in telling them the good news of the Kingdom but also in extending a helping hand whenever possible.—James 2:14-17. [Picture on page 19] Hawaii [Picture on page 19] Venezuela [Picture on page 19] Yugoslavia [Pictures on page 20] Kingdom Halls, practical in design, are places for Bible discussion [Pictures on page 21] In their family life and in contacts with others, the Witnesses sincerely try to do the things that they advocate
Young People Ask, Volume 1 (yp1) 2011	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp1	CHAPTER 2 Why Are We Always Arguing? In the opening scenario of this chapter, Rachel contributes to an argument in three ways. Can you identify them? Write your answers below, and then compare them with those found in the box “Answers” on page 20. ․․․․․ It’s Wednesday night. Rachel, 17, is done with her chores, and she’s ready for some well-earned downtime—finally! She turns on the TV and collapses into her favorite chair. As if on cue, Mom appears in the doorway, and she doesn’t look happy. “Rachel! Why are you wasting your time watching TV when you’re supposed to be helping your sister with her homework? You never do as you’re told!” “Here we go again,” Rachel mutters, loud enough to be heard. Mom leans forward. “What did you say, young lady?” “Nothing, Mom,” Rachel says with a sigh, rolling her eyes. Now Mom is really angry. “Don’t use that tone with me!” she says. “What about the tone you’re using with me?” Rachel shoots back. Downtime is over . . . another argument has begun. DOES the above scenario seem familiar? Do you and your parents constantly argue? If so, take a moment to analyze the situation. Which topics cause the most conflict? Put a ✔ in the boxes that apply—or fill in your own topic next to “Other.” □ Attitude □ Chores □ Clothing □ Curfew □ Entertainment □ Friends □ Opposite sex □ Other ․․․․․ Regardless of the topic, arguing leaves you—and your parents—feeling awful. Of course, you could just bite your tongue and put on a show of agreeing with everything your parents say. But does God expect you to do that? No. It is true that the Bible tells you to “honor your father and your mother.” (Ephesians 6:2, 3) But it also encourages you to develop your “thinking ability” and to use your “power of reason.” (Proverbs 1:1-4; Romans 12:1) When you do, it’s inevitable that you will have strong convictions, some of which may differ from those of your parents. However, in families that apply Bible principles, parents and youths can communicate peacefully—even when they don’t see eye to eye.—Colossians 3:13. How can you express yourself without turning normal conversation into open warfare? It’s easy to say: “That’s my parents’ problem. After all, they’re the ones who are always on my back!” But think: How much control do you have over others, including your parents? Really, the only person you can change is you. And the good news is that if you do your part to ease the tension, your parents are more likely to remain calm and hear you out when you have something to say. So let’s see what you can do to put a lid on the arguing. Apply the suggestions that follow, and you might amaze your parents—and yourself—with your newfound communication skills. ● Think before you respond. Don’t blurt out the first thing that comes to your mind when you feel that you’re under attack. For instance, suppose your mom says: “Why didn’t you wash the dishes? You never do as you’re told!” An impulsive reply might be, “Why are you nagging me?” But use your thinking ability. Try to perceive the feeling behind your mom’s words. Usually, statements with terms like “always” and “never” are not to be taken literally. They do, however, indicate an underlying emotion. What might it be? Perhaps your mom is frustrated, feeling that she is burdened with more than her share of the housework. It could be that she merely wants reassurance that she has your support. If that’s the case, saying “Why are you nagging me?” will get you nowhere—except maybe into an argument! So instead, why not put your mom at ease? For example, you could say: “I can see you’re upset, Mom. I’ll do the dishes right away.” A caution: Do not lace your words with sarcasm. Respond with empathy, and your mom will be more likely to soften and tell you the real problem.a Below, write a statement that your dad or mom might make that could provoke you—if you let it. ․․․․․ Now think of an empathetic response you could use that might address the feeling behind the statement. ․․․․․ ● Speak respectfully. Michelle has learned from experience the importance of how she speaks to her mother. “No matter what the issue is,” she says, “it always comes back to Mom’s not liking my tone of voice.” If that’s often true in your case, learn to speak quietly and slowly, and avoid rolling your eyes or giving other nonverbal indications of your annoyance. (Proverbs 30:17) If you feel that you’re about to lose control, offer a brief, silent prayer. (Nehemiah 2:4) Of course, your objective is not to get divine help to ‘get your parent off your back’ but to maintain self-control so that you don’t add fuel to the fire.—James 1:26. In the space below, write down some verbal and nonverbal responses you are prone to make that you would do well to avoid. Verbal reactions (what you say): ․․․․․ Nonverbal reactions (your facial expressions and body language): ․․․․․ ● Listen. The Bible states: “You will say the wrong thing if you talk too much.” (Proverbs 10:19, Contemporary English Version) So make sure that you give your dad or mom a chance to speak and that you give your parent your full attention. Don’t interrupt to justify your actions. Just listen. Later, when they’ve finished talking, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions or explain your viewpoint. On the other hand, if you dig in your heels and press your viewpoint now, you might only make things worse. Even if there’s more you’d like to say, right now is probably “a time to keep quiet.”—Ecclesiastes 3:7. ● Be willing to apologize. It’s always appropriate to say “I’m sorry” for anything you did to contribute to a conflict. (Romans 14:19) You can even say you’re sorry that there is any conflict. If you find it hard to do this face-to-face, try expressing your feelings in a note. Then ‘go the extra mile’ by changing any behavior that contributed to the conflict in the first place. (Matthew 5:41) For example, if neglecting a chore has ignited an argument, why not surprise your parents by doing that chore? Even if you dislike the task, wouldn’t getting it done be better than facing the consequences when your parents see it’s still not done? (Matthew 21:28-31) Think of what you stand to gain by doing your part to reduce the tension between you and your parents. Successful families have conflicts, but they know how to settle them peaceably. Practice the skills outlined in this chapter, and you may find that you can discuss even difficult topics with your parents—without arguing! IN OUR NEXT CHAPTERDo you feel that your parents should give you more freedom? If so, what can you do? [Footnote] a For more information, see Volume 2, Chapter 21. KEY SCRIPTURE “Good people think before they answer.”—Proverbs 15:28, Today’s English Version. TIP When your parents speak to you, turn off your music, set aside your book or magazine, and maintain eye contact with them. DID YOU KNOW . . . ? Working to resolve or prevent conflict will make life easier for you. In fact, the Bible says that a person “of loving-kindness is dealing rewardingly with his own soul.”—Proverbs 11:17. ACTION PLAN! The suggestion in this chapter that I need to work on most is ․․․․․ I resolve to start applying this suggestion as of (insert date) ․․․․․ What I would like to ask my parent(s) about this subject is ․․․․․ WHAT DO YOU THINK? ● Why do some of your peers prize the ability to argue? ● Why does Jehovah God view an argumentative person as foolish?—Proverbs 20:3. ● What do you stand to gain by reducing the tension between yourself and your parents? [Blurb on page 18] “My mom will sometimes say ‘I’m sorry’ with a hug, and that’s nice. Then we can move on. I try to do that too. Putting my pride behind me and sincerely saying ‘I’m sorry’ goes a long way, although I admit it’s not easy.”—Lauren [Box on page 20] Answers 1. The use of sarcasm (“Here we go again”) only poured fuel on the fire of her mom’s frustration. 2. By her facial expression (rolling her eyes), Rachel was just asking for trouble. 3. Talking back (“What about the tone you’re using with me?”) almost always backfires. [Picture on page 19] Arguing with a parent is like running on a treadmill—you’ll expend a lot of energy but won’t get anywhere
KEEP ON THE WATCH! Disturbing Decline in Teen Mental Health—What Does the Bible Say?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/501100069	E+/taseffski/via Getty Images (Stock photo. Posed by model.) KEEP ON THE WATCH! Disturbing Decline in Teen Mental Health—What Does the Bible Say? On Monday, February 13, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States released a report on the mental health of U.S. teens. It noted that over 40 percent of high school students experienced persistent sadness and hopelessness. “Although we have seen worsening trends in mental health for young people over the last 10 years,” stated Dr. Kathleen Ethier, director of CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health (DASH), “the levels of poor mental health and suicidal thoughts and behaviors reported by teenage girls are now higher than we have ever seen.” The report noted: More than 1 in 10 teen girls (14 percent) have been forced to have sex when they did not want to. “This is truly alarming” stated Dr. Ethier. “For every 10 teenage girls you know, at least one of them, and probably more, has been raped.” Nearly 1 in 3 teen girls (30 percent) seriously considered attempting suicide. Nearly 3 in 5 teen girls (57 percent) felt persistently sad or hopeless. These statistics are truly heartbreaking. Youth should be a time of joy and happiness. What can help teens cope with the stress that they face today? What does the Bible say? The Bible offers teens practical help The Bible realistically describes the stressful times we are living in today. It calls them “critical times hard to deal with.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5) However, the Bible offers timeless advice that is helping millions of teens worldwide to successfully cope despite the challenges they face. Consider the following Bible-based articles. Help for teens dealing with suicidal feelings What if I Don’t Want to Live Anymore? I Want to Die—Can the Bible Help Me When I Have Suicidal Thoughts? Why Go On? Help for teens dealing with depression, sadness, or negative emotions How Can I Deal With Depression? How Can I Avoid Negative Thinking? How Can I Deal With Anxiety? How Can I Control My Emotions? From Sad to Glad (whiteboard animation) Help for teens dealing with bullying or cyberbullying What if I’m Being Bullied? What if I’m Being Cyberbullied? Beat a Bully Without Using Your Fists (whiteboard animation) Help for teens dealing with sexual harassment and assault How Can I Deal With Sexual Harassment? What Should I Know About Sexual Assault?—Part 1: Precautions What Should I Know About Sexual Assault?—Part 2: Recovery The Bible offers practical advice for parents The Bible also offers practical advice to assist parents so that they can help their teens cope with life’s challenges. Consider the following Bible-based articles. Teen Depression—Why? What Can Help? When Your Teenage Daughter Is Stressed Out What if My Child Is Being Bullied? When Your Teenager Self-Injures Children and Social Media—Part 1: Should My Child Use Social Media? Children and Social Media—Part 2: Teaching Your Teenager Social Media Safety Children and Smartphones—Part 1: Should My Child Have a Smartphone? Children and Smartphones—Part 2: Teaching Children Smartphone Sense How to Talk to Your Teen About Sexting
Taming of the Niger	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101970006	Taming of the Niger By “Awake!” correspondent in Nigeria WATCHING a powerful, wild stallion galloping free as the breeze is an inspiring sight. So also is a powerful river a thing of beauty. But just as a wild stallion is of limited service to man, so too is an untamed river. Thus, in 1964 Nigeria set out on a bold scheme to tame the Niger, the third largest river on the African continent. The Niger flows through five countries in West Africa. Starting in Guinea, it winds through Mali and the Niger Republic, along the northern border of Dahomey, and flows hundreds of miles down through Nigeria before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. The principal aim was to harness the river’s potential electrical power, since other sources such as steam and diesel plants could not keep up with Nigeria’s growing demands for power. Therefore, after much investigation, it was decided to construct a dam at Kainji Island on the Niger about 630 miles upstream from the Atlantic coast. On February 20, 1964, the work contract was awarded to Impregilo, an Italian construction firm. They arrived at the site in March 1964, and work started immediately. Many wondered if the civil war, which started in Nigeria on July 6, 1967, would affect the construction. But since the project was well under way by that time, and all the work was out of the war area, construction continued according to schedule. The cost for this project was estimated at $221,200,000. Who would pay this big bill? Nigeria was in position to pay more than one-third of the cost. The World Bank agreed to provide almost an equal amount, and Italy, Britain, the United States and the Netherlands agreed to finance the rest. So, the project really turned out to be an international one. Canada provided technical assistance. And machinery and building materials came from Sweden, Austria, Norway, Britain and Italy. Construction In time, the force working at the dam numbered 5,700. A camp was established nine miles from the construction site and grew to a population of 20,000, a regular city! It was well equipped with schools, shops, recreational facilities, street lighting, water supply and sewage disposal, as well as a hospital. The principal section of the dam is the concrete structure. It is 1,800 feet long and 215 feet high above the foundation, about the height of a twenty-story building! Included in this section is the spillway, which has four huge fifty-foot by fifty-foot hydraulically operated gates. These are used to release excess water and to regulate the downstream flow of the river. At the base of the dam, on the downstream side, is the power plant. Twelve intake tunnels channel water from the reservoir to this plant. Here the water turns huge turbines that each generate 110,000 horsepower. The electrical output is fed via overhead lines to the switchyard situated a short distance downstream from the dam. From there it is sent on its journey to satisfy Nigeria’s need for electrical power. On each side of the 1,800-foot-long concrete dam are huge rock- and earth-fill dams. The one to the right is 8,000 feet long, and a similar one to the left bank is 4,000 feet long. These complete the main section of the dam. However, beyond the left-bank section is a low saddle dam that has a total length of 2-3/4 miles. For the main dam, including the spillway, 800,000 cubic yards of cement were used. The power plant required another 175,000 cubic yards. And the fill dams used 9,000,000 cubic yards of material. If this were spread out over an area of one square mile, it would make a mound of earth nearly nine feet high! The first electrical power was received from the dam on December 22, 1968, and the fourth turbine was installed at the end of February 1969. So, less than five years after the construction started, the dam was officially opened on February 15, 1969. In time a total of twelve turbines will be installed here, and the power produced will more than equal the amount produced in Nigeria before the dam’s construction! Other Benefits The 480-square-mile lake created by the dam guarantees a good supply of water for irrigation. Also, land downstream, formerly useless because of flooding, will now be reclaimed for agriculture. Another possible benefit is a fishing industry that is hoped eventually to harvest about 10,000 tons of fish annually. Kainji Dam, too, will be a boon to the shipping industry. A bypass canal with two locks has been built to permit shipping above the dam. And, too, the dam allows for regulating and improving the flow in the river downstream, thus extending considerably the shipping season. This should make it possible for the various products from northern Nigeria more easily to reach the ocean and be shipped to world markets. There is also the prospect that tourism will be another benefit of the lake. Inland lakes are few in Africa, and in an area so far distant from the ocean and large bodies of water, the lake will certainly be an attraction. Future Projects As the demand for electricity increases, two future projects have been planned, which will be integrated with Kainji Dam. First is a dam to be located near Jebba, about sixty miles below Kainji Dam. Its hydroelectric capacity will be a little more than half that of the recently opened project. The lake it will produce will extend all the way back to Kainji Dam. Then there are plans for a dam at Shiroro Gorge on the Kaduna River, upstream from where the Kaduna meets the Niger. It will produce nearly the same electrical output as the proposed Jebba Dam. Once these dams are completed, an ingenious, integrated system is planned that will produce a large, year-round supply of electricity. Such projects should be a boon to Nigeria’s economy.
Young People Ask, Volume 1 (yp1) 2011	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp1	Legend This Book Contains . . . KEY SCRIPTURESthat highlight main points TIPpractical suggestions that will help you succeed DID YOU KNOW . . .?facts that will stimulate your thinking ACTION PLAN!opportunities to express how you will put the material to use WHAT DO YOU THINK?questions that will help you reason on what you’ve read In Addition . . . MY JOURNALeach section of this book ends with a journal page that will allow you to put your thoughts into words ROLE MODELselected Bible characters are featured as worthy of imitation
Trinity (ti) 1989	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/trinity-ti	input Page/Publishers’ Page Should You Believe in the Trinity? Is Jesus Christ the Almighty God? 2006 Printing This publication is provided as part of a worldwide Bible educational work supported by voluntary donations. Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures—With References, 1984 Edition
YOUNG PEOPLE ASK Should I Get a Tattoo?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016132	YOUNG PEOPLE ASK Should I Get a Tattoo? What is the attraction? What questions should you ask? What Bible principles apply? What is the attraction? “I think some tattoos are beautiful works of art,” says a young man named Ryan. The motive for getting a tattoo might affect how you feel about getting one. For example, a teenager named Jillian says: “When a girl I went to school with was little, her mom died. So when she became a teenager, the girl got her mom’s name tattooed on the back of her neck. I think a tattoo like that can be very sweet.” Regardless of the motive, you should think long and hard before deciding to have anything permanently inked into your skin! What questions should you consider if you are thinking about getting a tattoo? And what Bible principles can help you make the best decision? What questions should you ask? What are the health risks? “Tattoos breach the skin, which means that skin infections and other complications are possible,” says the website of the Mayo Clinic. “Sometimes bumps called granulomas form around tattoo ink. Tattooing also can lead to keloids—raised areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue.” Furthermore, the website notes: “If the equipment used to create your tattoo is contaminated with infected blood, you can contract various bloodborne diseases.” How would it affect your reputation? Like it or not, your appearance sends a message. It identifies you as either adultlike or immature, as either trustworthy or irresponsible. “Whenever I see someone with a tattoo, I automatically put him in the drinking-and-partying category,” says a teenager named Samantha. Melanie, 18, sees another aspect to it. “To me,” she says, “tattoos hide your natural beauty. It’s as if those who wear them don’t want you to see who they really are, so they hide themselves underneath tattoos.” Will you always like it? Over time, weight gain or even simple aging can stretch and distort a tattoo. “I’ve seen what tattoos look like on a person decades later, and it’s not pretty,” says a young man named Joseph. “Tattoos often become outdated,” says 21-year-old Allen. “What was once significant to the wearer might not be important just a few years later.” Allen makes a good point. The fact is, as people age, their views change, their tastes change, and their affections change—but their tattoos do not. “Having got a tattoo that only reminds me of foolish feelings is something I wouldn’t want to add to the list of things I regret years later,” says a young woman named Teresa. What Bible principles apply? A mature person takes time to weigh all factors before making a decision. (Proverbs 21:5; Hebrews 5:14) So consider the following Bible principles that have a bearing on the subject of tattoos. Colossians 3:20: “You children, be obedient to your parents in everything, for this is well-pleasing to the Lord.” What consequences might you experience if you live at home with your parents but fail to respect their direction? 1 Peter 3:3, 4: “Do not let your adornment be external—the braiding of hair and the wearing of gold ornaments or fine clothing—but let it be the secret person of the heart in the incorruptible adornment of the quiet and mild spirit.” Why, do you think, does the Bible put such emphasis on “the secret person of the heart”? 1 Timothy 2:9: “Women should adorn themselves . . . with modesty and soundness of mind.” What is the meaning of the word “modesty”? In the long term, why is modesty more attractive than body art? Romans 12:1: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason.” Why does the way you treat your body matter to God? In view of these factors, many people have decided against getting a tattoo. In fact, they have found something better than tattoos. Teresa, quoted earlier, says: “If there is a phrase or slogan that you truly love or a person who is important to you, then live by that phrase or tell that person how much he or she means to you. Instead of getting a tattoo, live what you believe.”
My Bible Lessons (mb) 2013	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/my-bible-lessons-mb	Lesson 1 Printed Edition Revelation 4:11 Who made the earth? Who made the sea? Who created you and me? Who made the butterfly with its colorful wings? Jehovah God created all things. ACTIVITIES Read to your child: Revelation 4:11 Have your child point to: Stars Clouds Sun Boat Earth House Sea Butterfly Ask your child: What is God’s name? Where does Jehovah live? What did he make?
What Does the Bible Say About Fasting?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502018122	What Does the Bible Say About Fasting? The Bible’s answer In Bible times, fasting was acceptable to God when it was done with the right motive. But when it was done for the wrong reasons, it brought God’s disfavor. However, the Bible neither commands nor forbids fasting for people today. Under what circumstances did some in the Bible fast? When seeking help and guidance from God. The people journeying to Jerusalem fasted to show their sincerity in asking for God’s help. (Ezra 8:21-23) Paul and Barnabas at times chose to fast when appointing congregation elders.—Acts 14:23. When focusing on God’s purpose. After his baptism, Jesus fasted for 40 days to prepare himself to do God’s will during his coming ministry.—Luke 4:1, 2. When demonstrating repentance over past sins. Through the prophet Joel, God told unfaithful Israelites: “Return to me with all your hearts, with fasting and weeping and wailing.”—Joel 2:12-15. When observing the Day of Atonement. The Law that God gave to the nation of Israel included a command to fast on the annual Day of Atonement.a (Leviticus 16:29-31) Fasting was appropriate on this occasion because it reminded the Israelites that they were imperfect and needed God’s forgiveness. What are some improper motives for fasting? To impress others. Jesus taught that religious fasting should be a personal and private matter between an individual and God.—Matthew 6:16-18. To prove oneself righteous. Fasting does not make a person morally or spiritually superior.—Luke 18:9-14. To try to compensate for a deliberate practice of sin. (Isaiah 58:3, 4) God accepted only fasts that were accompanied by obedience and by heartfelt repentance for any sins committed. To carry out a religious formality. (Isaiah 58:5-7) In this respect, God is like a parent who is displeased when his children express love for him merely out of obligation, not from the heart. Is fasting required for Christians? No. God required the Israelites to fast on Atonement Day, but he eliminated that observance after Jesus permanently atoned for the sins of repentant people. (Hebrews 9:24-26; 1 Peter 3:18) Christians are not under the Mosaic Law, of which Atonement Day was a part. (Romans 10:4; Colossians 2:13, 14) Therefore, each Christian may decide for himself whether to fast.—Romans 14:1-4. Christians recognize that fasting is not the focus of their worship. The Bible never associates fasting with happiness. In contrast, true Christian worship is marked by joy, reflecting the personality of Jehovah, “the happy God.”—1 Timothy 1:11; Ecclesiastes 3:12, 13; Galatians 5:22. Misconceptions about the Bible’s view of fasting Misconception: The apostle Paul recommended fasting to Christian married couples.—1 Corinthians 7:5, King James Version. Fact: The oldest Bible manuscripts do not mention fasting at 1 Corinthians 7:5.b Evidently, Bible copyists added a reference to fasting, not only to this verse but also to Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:29; and Acts 10:30. Most modern Bible translations omit these spurious references to fasting. Misconception: Christians should fast in commemoration of the 40 days that Jesus fasted in the wilderness after his baptism. Fact: Jesus never commanded such a fast, nor are there any Scriptural indications that early Christians observed it.c Misconception: Christians should fast when commemorating Jesus’ death. Fact: Jesus did not command his disciples to fast when commemorating his death. (Luke 22:14-18) While Jesus said that his disciples would fast when he died, he was not issuing a command but merely stating what was going to happen. (Matthew 9:15) The Bible instructed Christians who were hungry to eat at home before observing the Memorial of Jesus’ death.—1 Corinthians 11:33, 34. a God told the Israelites: “You should afflict yourselves,” or “afflict your souls,” on Atonement Day. (Leviticus 16:29, 31; King James Version) This expression is understood to refer to fasting. (Isaiah 58:3) Thus, the Contemporary English Version uses this rendering: “You must go without eating to show sorrow for your sins.” b See A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, by Bruce M. Metzger, Third Edition, page 554. c Regarding the history of the 40-day fast of Lent, the New Catholic Encyclopedia states: “In the first three centuries, the period of fasting in preparation for the paschal [Easter] feast did not exceed a week at the most; one or two days was the usual limit. . . . The first mention of a period of 40 days occurs in the fifth canon of the Council of Nicaea (325), although some scholars dispute whether Lent is meant there.”—Second Edition, Volume 8, page 468.
Table of outputs	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102023004	Table of outputs 3 Fresh Water 6 Oceans 9 Forests 12 Air 15 God Promises That Our Planet Will Survive 16 In This Issue of Awake!
Scriptures for Christian Living (scl) 2023	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/scl	Confidence in Jehovah Pr 3:5, 21-26; Isa 26:3, 4; Jer 17:7, 8 See also Ps 34:8; 40:4, 5; Pr 20:22; Isa 30:15 Relevant Bible account(s): 1Ch 5:18-20, 22—The success that some tribes of Israel experience in warfare is based on their trusting in Jehovah 2Ch 14:9-13—When facing an overwhelming enemy, King Asa prays to Jehovah and shows deep trust in his God
World Government (go) 1977	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/go	input Page/Publishers’ Page Our Incoming World Government—God’s Kingdom A Look Just Ahead Under the Brightening Light of Bible Prophecies That Are Nearing Fulfillment in the One Form of Rulership That Will Satisfy All Our Needs and Desires “God is King of all the earth; make melody, acting with discretion. God has become king over the nations. God himself has taken his seat upon his holy throne.”—Psalm 47:7, 8. DEDICATED to the God whose happy time has come to replace man’s disastrous rulership of himself with the righteous government for which heartsick people of all races have longed.
Young People Ask (yp) 1989	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp	Chapter 10 How Important Are Looks? YOU say you don’t like the way you look? Well, few of us—if any—are entirely satisfied with our appearance. Unlike Narcissus, who fell in love with his reflection in a pool of water, some of us nearly fall into depression when we see our reflection. ‘I’ve got this dislike about my body,’ laments 16-year-old Maria. ‘I think I don’t look so good.’ Thirteen-year-old Bob has a similar grievance: ‘I don’t like my hair, the way it sticks up here in the back.’ To make matters worse, a teenager’s appearance can change so rapidly that, according to one psychologist, youths often “feel like strangers in their own bodies.” Many thus fret about their face, hair, figure, and physique. Of course, God himself has an appreciation for beauty. Says Ecclesiastes 3:11: “Everything [God] has made pretty in its time.” And how you look can indeed have a profound effect upon the way others view and treat you. Adds Dr. James P. Comer: “Body image is part of self-image. It can affect a person’s self-confidence and what he does and does not do in life.” A healthy concern about your appearance thus makes good sense. However, when you become so self-conscious that you withdraw from others or feel bad about yourself, then such concern is no longer healthy. Who Says You’re Unattractive? Interestingly, distress over personal appearance is not always due to real physical defects. A slender girl sits in class wishing she was heavier, while on the next aisle, a buxom girl laments how “fat” she is. From where does such dissatisfaction come? What makes well-formed youths think they are unattractive? Says professor of psychiatry Richard M. Sarles: “Adolescence is a period of transition in which a major reorganization of the body takes place. . . . To deal with the awkwardness of a new and changing body, most adolescents rely upon the security of their peer group.” But under the scrutiny of your peers, how tall, short, fat, or thin you are—not to mention the shape of your nose or ears—can become a source of great anxiety. And when others get more attention than you or when you are chided about your looks, you can easily begin to feel bad about yourself. Then there is the pervasive influence of TV, books, and movies. Attractive men and women stare at us from TV screens and magazine pages, selling everything from perfume to chain saws. The communications media would thus have you believe that if you’re not a flawless-skinned beauty or a muscular “hunk,” you might as well crawl into a hole somewhere—or at least forget about ever being popular or happy. Don’t Be ‘Squeezed Into Their Mold’! But before concluding that you are an ugly duckling, ask yourself to what extent your physical flaws are real—or imagined. Is that facial feature you fret (or are teased) about really so unattractive? Or have others pressured you into thinking it is? The Bible advises: “Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould.”—Romans 12:2, Phillips. Think: Who is it that promotes the idea that you need a certain look if you are to be popular, successful, or happy? Is it not manufacturers and advertisers who stand to profit by your pursuing fad diets or purchasing expensive beauty aids? Why let them mold your thinking? And if peers are critical of your looks, are they doing so to be helpful—or simply to put you down? If the latter is true, who needs “friends” like that, anyway? The Bible further advises you to “incline your heart to discernment.” (Proverbs 2:2) Discernment will help you to view your physical assets objectively and to be dubious of media propaganda. Few people will ever look like supermodels. And “beauty is a bubble.” (Proverbs 31:30, Byington) People who are paid for their looks are at their peak for but a brief moment before they are discarded for a fresh, new face. Also, wonders are often done for their looks with makeup, lighting, and photographic artistry. (Some are shocked to see how celebrities look without their beauty-support systems!) There is thus no reason to feel depressed because you do not look like a TV or magazine model. Nor are your peers the final judges of how tall, short, or slim you must be to look attractive. If you are comfortable with how you look, give your peers little heed. Ironically, the very thing you dislike about your looks may well be the source of someone else’s envy. Look Your Best! Sometimes youths do have legitimate appearance problems: a bad complexion, excess body weight, a misshapen nose, protruding ears, extremely short stature. Of course, as a growing youth, your appearance is still changing. Acne, fluctuations in weight, and lightning fast (or agonizingly slow) growth are the bane of the teen years. Time solves many such problems. Others it does not. And many youths must live with the fact that their looks are, well, plain. Said writer John Killinger: “For most people, the lack of good looks is one of the most painful facts of life, one they learn early and rarely elude for the remainder of their lives.” You can, however, make the most of your looks! Surgery is an expensive and perhaps risky way of correcting physical imperfections.a Simple hygiene, though, is inexpensive and can do a lot to enhance your attractiveness. Your hair may not have the luster of that of a movie actor or actress, but it can be clean; so can your face, hands, and fingernails. White teeth and clean, pink gums will make any smile more charming. Do you have a problem with overweight? A regimen of diet and exercise (perhaps under a doctor’s care) may do much to bring your weight under control. With parental approval, you might also try experimenting with clothing and hairstyles that accentuate your physical assets and downplay your flaws. For example, according to writer Sharon Faelten, a large nose can be de-emphasized by a girl’s wearing “a full hairstyle or upswept crown.” Sharp, angular features can likewise be softened by wearing “a wavy or curly hairstyle,” and judicious use of makeup can downplay a girl’s facial flaws. Male or female, you can also accomplish much with your choice of apparel. Choose colors that enhance your complexion and styles that flatter. Pay attention to a garment’s lines: Vertical lines have a slimming effect; horizontal lines, the opposite! Yes, with effort and imagination, you can present a pleasant appearance—even if you are not naturally endowed with good looks. A Need for Balance While giving attention to how you look is important, be careful not to make your appearance the big thing in your life. Have you ever noticed how little the Bible talks about the way people looked? Why aren’t we told what Abraham, Mary, or even Jesus looked like? Obviously, God did not consider it important. Interestingly, God once rejected for the position of king a young man named Eliab, whose stature was most impressive! Jehovah God explained to the prophet Samuel: “Do not look at his appearance and at the height of his stature . . . For not the way man sees is the way God sees, because mere man sees what appears to the eyes; but as for Jehovah, he sees what the heart is.” (1 Samuel 16:6, 7) What a comfort it is to know that to God, the One who really counts, our looks are not the important thing! “He sees what the heart is.” Another point to ponder: Are not most of your friends rather average-looking? And would either of your parents be material for the cover of a fashion magazine? Probably not. Indeed, knowing their fine qualities, you seldom even think about their looks! You too have assets as a person that far outweigh any physical deficiencies—real or imagined. Nevertheless, looks are important to your peers, and you may find yourself under pressure to conform to their styles of dress and grooming. How should you respond to that pressure? [Footnotes] a Some medical procedures, such as braces to correct crooked teeth, can have both health and cosmetic benefits. Questions for Discussion ◻ Why are youths so concerned about their looks? How do you feel about your own looks? ◻ What view of the importance of looks is promoted by the media and your peers? How should you respond to such influence? ◻ What are some ways of dealing with the problem of acne? ◻ How can you make the most of your looks? Why is there a need for balance in this regard? [Blurb on page 82] ‘I’ve got this dislike about my body . . . I think I don’t look so good’ [Blurb on page 88] You have assets that far outweigh any physical deficiencies [Box/Picture on page 84, 85] Can’t I Do Something About My Acne?’ Acne is a disorder of the skin that causes it to be spotted or even disfigured by pimples, blackheads, red swellings, or cysts. For many youths, it is a serious skin disorder, rather than merely a passing discomfort that lasts only a few months. People of all ages can be afflicted with it, but teenagers suffer the most. According to some experts, about 80 percent develop acne in varying degrees. Not surprisingly, when 2,000 teenagers were asked to say what they disliked most about themselves, problems with skin far outnumbered every other complaint. Recalls a youth named Sandra, who had a bad case of acne while still in high school: “I had such bad acne, I was always hiding my face from other people. I was shy because I was embarrassed about the way I looked. . . . I looked so bad.”—Co-Ed magazine. Why does this scourge appear during your teen years—at the very time you want to look your best? Because you are growing up. With the onset of puberty, skin glands increase their activity. What happens? The World Book Encyclopedia explains in simple terms: Each gland empties into a hair follicle—that is, the little bag surrounding each hair. Normally, the oil would drain out through a pore of the skin, but sometimes a pore gets clogged and the oil cannot get out quickly enough. The clogged pore now forms a blemish called a blackhead because the trapped oil oxidizes, dries, and turns black. A pimple develops when pus forms. Cysts are formed when germs breed in the backed-up oil. It is the cysts that leave permanent scars. Pimples do not scar unless they become infected, which often happens as a result of squeezing or picking—so don’t squeeze or pick! Interestingly, tension and emotional upsets can activate the skin glands. Some experience the blossoming of a large pimple just before an important event or before and during exams. Jesus’ words are thus practical: “Never be anxious about the next day, for the next day will have its own anxieties.”—Matthew 6:34. Sad to say, no miracle cure exists. There are, however, over-the-counter medications available, such as gels, creams, lotions, washes, soaps, and facial masks, containing benzoyl peroxide (an antibacterial agent) that can help bring acne under control. (Your family doctor can be consulted if stronger measures are needed.) Many find that cleansing their skin thoroughly with a soap or wash containing benzoyl peroxide is helpful. However, avoid oily soaps or oil-based cosmetics. Some youths have also found that by taking care of their overall health—getting plenty of exercise, being out in the fresh air as much as possible, and getting enough sleep—their acne condition improves. And while the benefits of maintaining a fat-free diet are debated by some, avoiding junk food, as well as eating a balanced diet, obviously makes sense. In any event, patience is a must. Remember: The problem built up over quite a period of time, so it will not clear up overnight. Sandra, mentioned earlier, says: “I guess it took about a year for my skin to completely clear up, but I could see changes in my skin within six weeks.” By sticking to your treatment over a period of time, you may experience some relief. Meanwhile, do not let a few blemishes crush your self-esteem or inhibit your talking with others. While you may feel quite self-conscious about your skin, others probably notice it a lot less than you think. So try to keep a positive, happy spirit. And do what you can for your acne right now! [Picture on page 83] What you dislike about yourself may be envied by others [Pictures on page 86] Youths often fail to appreciate that magazine models have the services of a beauty-support team
Scriptures for Christian Living (scl) 2023	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/scl	Comfort Scriptural comfort for some common causes of discouragement Anxiety See “Anxiety” Bitterness; resentment Some are embittered by a hardship or a series of adversities Ec 9:11, 12 See also Ps 142:4; Ec 4:1; 7:7 Relevant Bible account(s): Ru 1:11-13, 20—Widowed and grieving the death of her two sons, Naomi feels that Jehovah has abandoned her Job 3:1, 11, 25, 26; 10:1—Job is embittered after losing his wealth, his ten children, and his health Comforting scriptures: Ro 12:19; Jas 1:13 Comforting Bible account(s): Ru 1:6, 7, 16-18; 2:2, 19, 20; 3:1; 4:14-16—Naomi draws closer to God’s people and accepts and gives loving help, after which her bitterness is replaced with joy Job 42:7-16; Jas 5:11—Job endures in faith, and Jehovah blesses him greatly Some are embittered by the unkind conduct of others Ec 4:1, 2 Relevant Bible account(s): 1Sa 1:6, 7, 10, 13-16—Hannah is deeply hurt by the unkind treatment from Peninnah and is misjudged by High Priest Eli Job 8:3-6; 16:1-5; 19:2, 3—Job’s three would-be comforters are self-righteous and judgmental, making Job feel worse Comforting scriptures: Ps 37:8, 9; Eph 4:26 Comforting Bible account(s): 1Sa 1:9-11, 18—After Hannah pours out her heart to Jehovah, her pain eases Job 42:7, 8, 10, 17—After Job shows a forgiving spirit, Jehovah restores him to health and happiness Crushing guilt Ezr 9:6; Ps 38:3, 4, 8; 40:12 Relevant Bible account(s): 2Ki 22:8-13; 23:1-3—King Josiah and his subjects become aware of their great guilt after the Law of Moses is read aloud to them Ezr 9:10-15; 10:1-4—The priest Ezra and the people are crushed with guilt because contrary to Jehovah’s will, some have married foreigners Lu 22:54-62—The apostle Peter is deeply grieved by guilt after he three times denies knowing Jesus Comforting scriptures: Ps 32:5; 103:9-14; Isa 1:18; Ac 3:19 See also Isa 38:17; Mic 7:18, 19 Comforting Bible account(s): 2Ch 33:9-13, 15, 16—Manasseh is among the worst of all the kings of Judah; yet, he repents and is granted mercy Lu 15:11-32—Jesus relates the parable of the lost son to illustrate how generously and completely Jehovah forgives Disappointment when others have let us down, hurt us, or even betrayed us See “Disappointment” Disappointment over our own weaknesses and sins See “Disappointment” Doubts about our own worth See “Doubts” Feelings of inadequacy in the face of a daunting challenge or assignment Relevant Bible account(s): Ex 3:11; 4:10—The prophet Moses feels inadequate when told to confront Pharaoh and lead God’s people out of Egypt Jer 1:4-6—Jeremiah feels that he is too young and inexperienced to serve as Jehovah’s prophet to a stubborn people Comforting scriptures: Ps 29:11; Isa 40:29; 2Co 3:4, 5; 4:7 Comforting Bible account(s): Ex 3:12; 4:11, 12—Jehovah patiently reassures the prophet Moses that He will help him in his assignment Jer 1:7-10—Jehovah reassures the prophet Jeremiah that He will make him equal to the challenges ahead Jealousy; envy See “Jealousy” Limitations imposed by illness or advancing age Ps 71:9, 18; Ec 12:1-7 Relevant Bible account(s): 2Ki 20:1-3—King Hezekiah weeps profusely over a deadly illness Php 2:25-30—Epaphroditus is depressed because the congregation heard that he was ill and he worried that they had the impression that he had failed to carry out his assignment Comforting scriptures: Ps 92:12-14; Isa 40:29-31; 46:4; 2Co 8:12 Comforting Bible account(s): 2Sa 17:27-29; 19:31-38—Loyal Barzillai is highly valued, but he modestly refuses an assignment that he feels is too much for him in his old age Ps 41:1-3, 12—Though King David may be seriously ill, he counts on Jehovah to sustain him Mr 12:41-44—Jesus praises a poor widow for her contribution because she gives all she has Lingering emotional pain over mistreatment by others See “Mistreatment” Morbid fear; dread See “Fear” Persecution See “Persecution”
Learn From the Bible (lfb) 2017	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/lfb	Introduction to Section 10 Jehovah is King over all. He has always been in control, and he will always be in control. For example, he rescued Jeremiah from a pit of death. He saved Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from a fiery furnace and Daniel from the mouths of lions. Jehovah protected Esther so that she could save her entire nation. He will not allow wickedness to go on forever. The prophecies of the great image and the massive tree guarantee that Jehovah’s Kingdom will soon remove all wickedness and rule the earth. KEY LESSONS Jehovah’s Kingdom is far more powerful than any human government Like Esther and Daniel, we must always stand up for what is right, no matter where we are Rely completely on Jehovah when facing desperate situations, just as Jeremiah and Nehemiah did
Sing Praises (ssb) 1984	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb	Song 41 Praise Jehovah, the Rock (Deuteronomy 32:4) 1. ‘Give ear, O you heav’ns; O earth, let me speak. To all of my words give ear, all you meek. My teachings will trickle like dew on the plain, My copious showers of truth like the rain.’ 2. O let us declare Jehovah’s great name And let all men know of his mighty fame. Let all whom he shepherds give praise to our Rock. His perfect activity laud, all his flock. 3. He’s faithful and just; to him we give praise. So loving, so wise, are all of his ways. Personification of truth, righteousness, Jehovah, our Rock, manifests faithfulness. 4. Let’s fear the true God and do what is right; His righteous commands let’s make our delight. May we not act ruinously on our part But ever serve Jah with a pure, steadfast heart.
Return to Jehovah (rj) 2015	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/return-to-jehovah-rj	PART THREE Hurt Feelings—When We Have “Cause for Complaint” “A sister in my congregation wrongly accused me of stealing money from her. Others in the congregation learned of it and began to take sides. Eventually, the sister told me that she had received some new information that exonerated me. Although she apologized, I felt in my heart that I could never forgive her for what I had gone through.”—Linda. CAN you relate to Linda, who was deeply hurt by the actions of a fellow believer? Sadly, some have been so disturbed by the conduct of others that it has affected their spiritual routine. Has that been true in your case? Can Anyone “Separate Us From God’s Love”? Admittedly, we may find it very difficult to forgive a fellow believer who has hurt us. After all, Christians should love one another. (John 13:34, 35) If we have been wronged by a fellow believer, the disappointment and pain can be devastating.—Psalm 55:12. Of course, the Bible acknowledges that there are times when Christians give one another “cause for complaint.” (Colossians 3:13) Even so, when that happens to us personally, we may find it to be quite a challenge to deal with. Is there anything that can help us? Consider three Scriptural principles: Our heavenly Father is aware of everything. Jehovah observes all that happens, including any injustice we face and the suffering it causes. (Hebrews 4:13) Moreover, Jehovah feels for us when we suffer. (Isaiah 63:9) He never allows “tribulation or distress” or anything else—not even another servant of his—“to separate us from God’s love.” (Romans 8:35, 38, 39) Are we not moved to respond in like manner, not allowing anything or anyone to come between us and Jehovah? To forgive is not to condone. When we forgive those who have wronged us, we are not minimizing, justifying, excusing, or condoning their actions. Remember, Jehovah never approves of sin, but he does forgive it if there is a basis for doing so. (Psalm 103:12, 13; Habakkuk 1:13) When he encourages us to forgive others, Jehovah is asking us to imitate him. He does not “stay resentful forever.”—Psalm 103:9; Matthew 6:14. When we let go of resentment, we benefit ourselves. In what way? Imagine the following scenario. You pick up a rock, perhaps one that weighs just a few pounds, and hold it at arm’s length. You would probably have little trouble holding the rock for a short time. But what if you tried to do so for an extended period of time? How long would you be able to hold it—some minutes? an hour? or longer? No doubt, your arm would become very tired! Of course, the actual weight of the rock would not change. But the longer you held it, the heavier it would feel. The same is true of resentment. The longer we hold a grudge—even a rather small one—the more we hurt ourselves. Little wonder, then, that Jehovah encourages us to let go of resentment. Really, letting go is for our own good.—Proverbs 11:17. When we let go of resentment, we benefit ourselves “I Felt as if Jehovah Himself Were Talking to Me” What helped Linda not to harbor resentment over the way she had been treated by a fellow believer? Among other things, she meditated on Scriptural reasons to extend forgiveness. (Psalm 130:3, 4) Linda was especially moved by knowing that when we extend forgiveness, Jehovah will, in turn, be forgiving toward us. (Ephesians 4:32–5:2) Regarding how those sentiments affected her, she says: “I felt as if Jehovah himself were talking to me.” In time, Linda was able to let go of resentment. She freely forgave the sister, and now that sister is her dear friend. Linda has moved forward in her service to Jehovah. Be assured that Jehovah wants to help you do the same. “When I fell away, I became bitter,” says Marie. “However, the book Draw Close to Jehovah reminded me of how very good and loving Jehovah is. As I read it, my love for him grew again.” Chapters 26 and 30 of that book discuss why and how Jehovah forgives and how we can imitate him.
Examining the Scriptures—2024 2023	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/examining-the-scriptures/examining-the-scriptures-2024	July Monday, July 1 Become an example to the faithful ones in speaking.—1 Tim. 4:12. Our ability to speak is a gift from our loving God. However, the gift of speech was misused. Satan the Devil lied to Eve, and that lie led to human sin and imperfection. (Gen. 3:1-4) Adam misused his tongue when he blamed Eve—and even Jehovah—for his own mistakes. (Gen. 3:12) Cain lied to Jehovah after he killed his brother Abel. (Gen. 4:9) Today, it is difficult to find a motion picture that does not contain some bad language. Students hear profanity at school, and adults are exposed to it in the workplace. If not careful, we might get so used to hearing bad language that we begin to use it ourselves. Of course, as Christians, we want to please Jehovah, and that involves more than avoiding obscene speech. We want to use the remarkable gift of speech in a positive way—to praise our God. w22.04 4 ¶1-3 Tuesday, July 2 You cannot slave for God and for Riches.—Matt. 6:24. Jesus had a balanced view of material things. He enjoyed food and drink. (Luke 19:2, 6, 7) On one occasion, he made wine of the finest quality—the first of his miracles. (John 2:10, 11) And on the day he died, he was wearing an expensive garment. (John 19:23, 24) But Jesus did not allow material things to become the focus of his life. Jesus taught that if we seek the Kingdom first, Jehovah will make sure that we have what we need. (Matt. 6:31-33) Many have benefited from applying divine wisdom when it comes to money. Consider the example of a single brother named Daniel. He says: “In my teenage years, I decided that I would make spiritual activities the most important thing in my life.” Because he has kept his life simple, Daniel has been able to use his time and skills on many theocratic projects. He adds: “There’s no amount of money that could equal the blessings Jehovah has given me.” w22.05 21-22 ¶6-7 Wednesday, July 3 [Jehovah] called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.—1 Pet. 2:9. We can show that we love the truth by regularly studying the Bible and Bible-based publications. After all, no matter how long we have been in the truth, we always have more to learn. Study is hard work, but it is well worth the effort. Not all of us love to read and study. But Jehovah invites us to “keep seeking” and to “keep searching” for a deeper understanding of the truth. (Prov. 2:4-6) When we put forth such effort, we always benefit. Regarding his personal Bible reading, Corey says that he focuses on one verse at a time. He explains: “I’ll read every footnote, look up every cross-reference, and do additional research. . . . I get so much out of my reading with this method!” Whether we use that method or another, we show our appreciation for the truth when we put time and effort into studying it.—Ps. 1:1-3. w22.08 17 ¶13; 18 ¶15-16 Thursday, July 4 I was beside him as a master worker. I was the one he was especially fond of day by day; I rejoiced before him all the time.—Prov. 8:30. While Jesus was on earth, he used creation to teach his disciples about his Father. Consider one of the lessons he taught. Jehovah extends his love to everyone. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus drew the attention of his disciples to two aspects of creation that many people take for granted: sunshine and rain. Both of these are essential for the preservation of life. Jehovah could have withheld these from undeserving humans. Instead, he lovingly provides the sun and the rain for all. (Matt. 5:43-45) Jesus used this lesson to teach his disciples that Jehovah wants us to show love toward everyone. Whenever we enjoy a stunning sunset or see a refreshing rain shower, we can reflect on Jehovah’s impartial love. His example can move us to show similar love by preaching to all. w23.03 17 ¶9-10 Friday, July 5 I was greatly amazed.—Rev. 17:6. What amazed the apostle John? A woman riding a scarlet-colored wild beast. She is portrayed as a “great prostitute” and is called “Babylon the Great.” She commits “sexual immorality” with “the kings of the earth.” (Rev. 17:1-5) Who is “Babylon the Great”? This woman cannot represent a political organization because she is spoken of as committing immorality with the world’s political leaders. (Rev. 18:9) In fact, she endeavors to control these rulers, symbolically riding them. Additionally, she cannot represent the greedy commercial elements of Satan’s world. These are portrayed separately as “the merchants of the earth.” (Rev. 18:11, 15, 16) Ancient Babylon was a center of false worship. So, then, Babylon the Great must represent all forms of false worship. In fact, she is the world empire of false religion.—Rev. 17:5, 18. w22.05 11 ¶14-16 Saturday, July 6 Your adversary, the Devil, walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone.—1 Pet. 5:8. A mother may at times wonder if her children will choose to serve Jehovah. After all, parents know how much pressure their children face in Satan’s world. Additionally, many mothers have the challenge of raising their children without a husband or with a husband who does not worship Jehovah. Challenges are not unique to those living in religiously divided households. Even when both parents are in the truth, it can be difficult to touch the heart of young ones so that they will become faithful servants of Jehovah. In any case, do not be overly anxious. Jehovah will help you. Why not consult other experienced parents for fresh ideas on how to use the tools available for family worship? (Prov. 11:14) Jehovah can also aid you in communicating with your children. Ask him to help you draw out what is on their mind and in their heart.—Prov. 20:5. w22.04 17 ¶4, 7; 18 ¶9 Sunday, July 7 I continue praying, that your love may abound still more and more with accurate knowledge and full discernment.—Phil. 1:9. We can grow in our love for Jehovah by getting better acquainted with his Son, who perfectly reflects his Father’s personality. (Heb. 1:3) The best way to get to know Jesus is to study the four Gospel accounts. If you have not yet developed the useful habit of reading the Bible every day, why not start now? As you read the accounts about Jesus, take special note of his qualities. He was approachable; he lovingly took small children into his arms. (Mark 10:13-16) He put his disciples at ease; they felt free to speak their mind when in his presence. (Matt. 16:22) In this regard, Jesus imitated his heavenly Father. Jehovah is also very approachable. We can turn to him in prayer. When we pray, we can pour out our heart to him. We are confident that he will not condemn us. He loves us; he cares for us.—1 Pet. 5:7. w22.08 3 ¶4-5 Monday, July 8 You, O Jehovah, are good and ready to forgive.—Ps. 86:5. As our Creator, Jehovah knows everything about us. Just think! He knows every detail about every person on this earth. (Ps. 139:15-17) So he can see all the imperfections that we inherited from our parents. Even more, he is aware of all the experiences that have molded and shaped our personality. What does this intimate knowledge of humankind move Jehovah to do? It moves him to act mercifully toward us. (Ps. 78:39; 103:13, 14) Jehovah has proved that he is eager to forgive. He understands that because of the actions of the first man, Adam, we all came under the curse of sin and death. (Rom. 5:12) There was no way for us to free ourselves or any other person from that curse. (Ps. 49:7-9) However, our loving God showed compassion and arranged for us to be set free. As John 3:16 reveals, Jehovah sent his only-begotten Son to die in our behalf.—Matt. 20:28; Rom. 5:19. w22.06 3 ¶5-6 Tuesday, July 9 A kind man benefits himself.—Prov. 11:17. That forgivers will be forgiven was made clear by Jehovah in connection with his servant Job. That faithful man had been deeply hurt by the cutting remarks of three men named Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar. Jehovah instructed Job to pray in their behalf. After Job did so, Jehovah blessed him. (Job 42:8-10) Harboring resentment is damaging. Jehovah wants us to enjoy the relief that comes from unburdening ourselves of resentment. (Eph. 4:31, 32) He urges us to “let go of anger and abandon rage.” (Ps. 37:8) There is wisdom in following that advice. Harboring resentment can be harmful to our physical and mental health. (Prov. 14:30) Our harboring such resentment will not affect the offender any more than our drinking poison would harm the one who offended us. Rather, when we forgive others, we are giving ourselves a gift. We find peace of mind and heart, and we are able to move ahead in our service to Jehovah. w22.06 10 ¶9-10 Wednesday, July 10 Put on the breastplate of faith and love and the hope of salvation as a helmet.—1 Thess. 5:8. Our hope acts as a figurative helmet that protects our thinking and safeguards us from choosing a self-indulgent lifestyle, which would spoil our relationship with Jehovah. (1 Cor. 15:33, 34) Our helmet of hope can also protect us from thinking that there is no point in even trying to please Jehovah. Recall that Job’s false comforter Eliphaz used similar reasoning with Job. Eliphaz said: “What is mortal man that he should be pure?” Further, he said of God: “Look! He has no faith in his holy ones, and even the heavens are not pure in his eyes.” (Job 15:14, 15) What lies! Remember who is behind such thinking—Satan. He knows that if you allow yourself to dwell on such thoughts, your hope will fade. Instead, reject such lies. Never doubt that Jehovah wants you to live forever and that he will help you to reach that goal.—1 Tim. 2:3, 4. w22.10 25-26 ¶8-10 Thursday, July 11 Job did not sin with his lips.—Job 2:10. Satan wanted Job to believe that he was suffering because he had lost Jehovah’s approval. For instance, Satan used a strong wind to bring down the house where all ten of Job’s children had been enjoying a meal together. (Job 1:18, 19) He also caused fire to fall from heaven and destroy not only Job’s flocks but also the servants who were caring for them. (Job 1:16) The wind and fire obviously came from a supernatural source; hence, Job concluded that Jehovah God must have been that Source. And as a result, Job believed that he had somehow upset Jehovah. Even so, Job refused to curse his heavenly Father. Job acknowledged that over the years he had received many good things from Jehovah. He therefore reasoned that if he was happy to accept the good, he should also be willing to accept the bad. So he said: “Let the name of Jehovah continue to be praised.”—Job 1:20, 21. w22.06 21 ¶7 Friday, July 12 You will be hated by all people on account of my name. But the one who has endured to the end will be saved.—Mark 13:13. Jesus gave his disciples a similar warning, recorded at John 17:14. We have certainly seen the fulfillment of that prophecy, especially during the last 100 years. How so? Shortly after Jesus was installed as Messianic King in 1914, Satan was cast out of heaven. He is now confined to the vicinity of the earth, awaiting his destruction. (Rev. 12:9, 12) But he is not waiting passively. Satan is desperate and furious, venting his anger on God’s people. (Rev. 12:13, 17) For that reason, the world’s hatred of God’s people has intensified. We have no reason, though, to fear Satan and his followers. Instead, we can have the same conviction as did the apostle Paul, who wrote: “If God is for us, who will be against us?” (Rom. 8:31) We can have complete confidence in Jehovah. w22.07 18 ¶14-15 Saturday, July 13 This good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth.—Matt. 24:14. Jesus was not worried that there would be a shortage of workers during the conclusion of the system of things. He knew that the prophetic words of the psalmist would be fulfilled: “Your people will offer themselves willingly on the day of your military force.” (Ps. 110:3) If you are sharing in the preaching work, you are supporting Jesus and the faithful slave and are helping to fulfill that prophecy. The work is going ahead, but there are challenges. One challenge that Kingdom preachers face is opposition. Apostates, religious leaders, and politicians have given many the wrong impression about our work. If our relatives, acquaintances, and workmates are misled by this propaganda, they may pressure us to stop serving Jehovah and to stop preaching. In some countries, the opposition takes the form of intimidation, threats, arrests, and even imprisonment. w22.07 8 ¶1; 9 ¶5-6 Sunday, July 14 We must enter into the Kingdom of God through many tribulations.—Acts 14:22. Jehovah expects us to set aside time to study the Bible regularly and to think deeply about what we read. When we apply what we learn, our faith grows stronger and we draw closer to our heavenly Father. As a result, we are strengthened to endure trials. Jehovah also gives his holy spirit to those who rely on his Word. And that spirit can give us “the power beyond what is normal” to endure any trial. (2 Cor. 4:7-10) With Jehovah’s backing, “the faithful and discreet slave” produces an abundance of articles, videos, and music that can help us to build strong faith and stay alert spiritually. (Matt. 24:45) Jehovah has trained his people to love and to comfort one another during distressing times. (2 Cor. 1:3, 4; 1 Thess. 4:9) Our brothers and sisters are eager to help us remain faithful when we experience difficulties. w22.08 12 ¶12-14 Monday, July 15 [Endeavor] to maintain the oneness of the spirit in the uniting bond of peace.—Eph. 4:3. By freely mentioning the good qualities of our brothers and sisters, we give them added reason for drawing close to one another, which builds up the congregation in love. At times, even mature Christians may disagree or argue with each other. That happened to the apostle Paul and his close friend Barnabas. These two men strongly disagreed about whether to take Mark with them on their next missionary trip. There was “a sharp burst of anger” between them, and they parted ways. (Acts 15:37-39) But Paul, Barnabas, and Mark mended the rift in their relationship. Paul later spoke well of Barnabas and Mark. (1 Cor. 9:6; Col. 4:10) We too need to resolve any differences we might have with others in the congregation and then continue to focus on their good qualities. In that way, we will promote peace and unity. w22.08 23 ¶10-11 Tuesday, July 16 Stop judging that you may not be judged.—Matt. 7:1. While we try hard to live by Jehovah’s righteous standards, we must avoid judging others and becoming self-righteous. We keep in mind that Jehovah is “the Judge of all the earth.” (Gen. 18:25) Jehovah has not entrusted such judging to us. Consider the example of the righteous man Joseph. He avoided judging others, even those who treated him badly. His own brothers assaulted him, sold him into slavery, and convinced their father that Joseph was dead. Years later, Joseph was reunited with his family. Now a powerful head of state, Joseph could have judged his brothers harshly and sought vengeance. Joseph’s brothers were afraid he might do exactly that, even though they were sincerely sorry for what they had done. But Joseph assured them: “Do not be afraid. Am I in the place of God?” (Gen. 37:18-20, 27, 28, 31-35; 50:15-21) Joseph humbly left the judging to Jehovah. w22.08 30 ¶18-19 Wednesday, July 17 Do not withhold good from those to whom you should give it if it is within your power to help.—Prov. 3:27. Did you know that you can be used by Jehovah to answer someone’s fervent prayer? That is true whether you are an elder, a ministerial servant, a pioneer, or a congregation publisher. It is true whether you are young or old or whether you are a brother or a sister. When someone who loves Jehovah calls out to him for help, our God often uses the elders and other faithful servants to become “a source of great comfort” to that person. (Col. 4:11) What a privilege it is to serve Jehovah and our brothers in that way! We may be able to do so when there is a disease outbreak, a disaster, or persecution. We may want to help others, but that can be challenging if our own family members are suffering. Still, we want to help our brothers, and Jehovah is pleased when we do what we can for them.—Prov. 19:17. w22.12 22 ¶1-2 Thursday, July 18 This is my commandment, that you love one another just as I have loved you.—John 15:12. Love is the foundation of trust. Jesus said that the two greatest commandments are to love Jehovah and to love our neighbor. (Matt. 22:37-39) Our love for Jehovah impels us to imitate his perfect example of trustworthiness. For instance, love for our brothers and sisters moves us to keep their personal matters private. We would never want to reveal something that could cause them harm, embarrassment, or pain. Humility will also help us to be trustworthy. A Christian who is humble does not try to impress others by being the first to reveal a matter. (Phil. 2:3) He does not exaggerate his own importance by suggesting that he is aware of information that he is not allowed to reveal. Humility will also prevent us from spreading speculations about matters that are not discussed in the Bible or in our Bible-based publications. w22.09 12 ¶12-13 Friday, July 19 True knowledge will become abundant.—Dan. 12:4. An angel told Daniel that the prophetic words in Daniel’s book would be understood more fully by God’s people, but that “none of the wicked [would] understand.” (Dan. 12:10) Now is the time for us to prove that we are not among the wicked ones. (Mal. 3:16-18) Jehovah is gathering those whom he views as “a special property,” or a treasured possession. We surely want to be among them. Truly, we are living in exciting times. But far more amazing things are about to happen. Soon we will see the destruction of all wickedness. Following that, we will see the fulfillment of Jehovah’s promise to Daniel: “You will stand up for your lot at the end of the days.” (Dan. 12:13) Do you long for the day when Daniel, along with your loved ones, will “stand up” again? If so, do your utmost now to be faithful, and you can be sure that your name will remain written in Jehovah’s book of life. w22.09 24 ¶17; 25 ¶19-20 Saturday, July 20 I am sending you.—Ezek. 2:3. Those words must have strengthened Ezekiel. Why? No doubt he recalled that Jehovah had used similar words when He commissioned Moses and Isaiah as His prophets. (Ex. 3:10; Isa. 6:8) Ezekiel also knew how Jehovah had helped those two prophets overcome challenges. So when Jehovah told Ezekiel twice: “I am sending you,” the prophet had good reason for trusting in Jehovah’s support. Further, in the book of Ezekiel, we find this statement numerous times: “The word of Jehovah came to me.” (Ezek. 3:16) Moreover, the statement “The word of Jehovah again came to me” occurs repeatedly. (Ezek. 6:1) Surely, Ezekiel was convinced that he was sent by Jehovah. In addition, being the son of a priest, Ezekiel had likely been taught by his father how throughout history Jehovah assured His prophets of His backing. To Isaac, Jacob, and Jeremiah, Jehovah had spoken the words: “I am with you.”—Gen. 26:24; 28:15; Jer. 1:8. w22.11 2 ¶3 Sunday, July 21 This means everlasting life.—John 17:3. Even though Adam and Eve sinned and brought death to their children, Jehovah did not change his mind regarding his purpose. (Isa. 55:11) His purpose is still that faithful humans live forever. Consider the things Jehovah has said and done in order to fulfill his purpose. Jehovah has promised that he will resurrect the dead and make everlasting life available to them. (Acts 24:15; Titus 1:1, 2) The faithful man Job was certain that Jehovah longs to resurrect those who have died. (Job 14:14, 15) The prophet Daniel was aware that humans have the prospect of being resurrected with the opportunity to live forever. (Ps. 37:29; Dan. 12:2, 13) Jews in Jesus’ day also knew that Jehovah could grant his faithful servants “everlasting life.” (Luke 10:25; 18:18) Jesus repeatedly spoke of this promise, and he himself was resurrected by his Father.—Matt. 19:29; 22:31, 32; Luke 18:30; John 11:25. w22.12 4-5 ¶8-9 Monday, July 22 I trust in you, O Jehovah.—Ps. 31:14. Jehovah invites us to be close to him. (Jas. 4:8) He wants to be our God, our Father, and our Friend. He answers our prayers and helps us during difficult times. And he uses his organization to teach us and protect us. We can draw close to Jehovah by praying to him and by reading his Word and meditating on it. As we do, we are filled with love and appreciation for him. We are motivated to give him the obedience and praise that he so richly deserves. (Rev. 4:11) The more we get to know Jehovah, the more we will trust in him and the organization that he has provided to help us. The Devil, however, tries little by little to undermine our trust in Jehovah and his organization. But we can resist his tactics. When our faith is strong and our trust in Jehovah is unshakable, we will not abandon our God and his organization.—Ps. 31:13, 14. w22.11 14 ¶1-3 Tuesday, July 23 They . . . were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.—Dan. 3:28. Many true Christians have risked their freedom and even their lives out of love for Jehovah as their Sovereign Ruler. They are integrity-keepers, who have resolve like that of the three Hebrews whose lives were spared in the fiery furnace for remaining faithful to the Supreme One. The psalmist David wrote about the importance of keeping integrity to God: “Jehovah will pass sentence on the peoples. Judge me, O Jehovah, according to my righteousness and according to my integrity.” (Ps. 7:8) Again, David wrote: “May integrity and uprightness safeguard me.” (Ps. 25:21) The best way to live is to remain faithful to Jehovah, maintaining our loyalty to him! Then we will feel the same as did the psalmist who wrote: “Happy are those who keep integrity . . . , who walk in the law of Jehovah.”—Ps. 119:1, ftn. w22.10 17 ¶18-19 Wednesday, July 24 His invisible qualities . . . are perceived by the things made.—Rom. 1:20. Of all the conversations Job had throughout his life, one in particular must have stood out—the conversation he had with Jehovah God. To strengthen Job’s confidence in His wisdom and ability to care for His servants, Jehovah pointed to some extraordinary features of nature. For instance, Job was reminded that God provides for the animals, so He could also take care of Job. (Job 38:39-41; 39:1, 5, 13-16) By considering examples from creation, Job learned a great deal about the qualities of his God. We too can learn more about our God when we examine his creative works. However, we may not always find it easy to do so. If we live in a city, we may see little evidence of nature in our daily lives. Even if we do live close to nature, we may feel that we have little time to study it, but it is worthwhile to take the time and make the effort to observe creation. w23.03 15 ¶1-2 Thursday, July 25 The shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself.—Prov. 22:3. Jesus said that “great earthquakes” and other disasters would occur before the end comes. (Luke 21:11) He also spoke of an “increasing of lawlessness,” which is evident in crime, violence, and terrorist attacks. (Matt. 24:12) Jesus never said that these calamities would impact only those whom Jehovah has abandoned. In fact, many of Jehovah’s faithful servants have been victims of disasters. (Isa. 57:1; 2 Cor. 11:25) Jehovah may not miraculously protect us from all disasters, but he will give us whatever we need to remain calm and at peace. We will find this easier if we have planned in advance how to respond. But does preparing indicate that we lack faith in Jehovah? Not at all. In fact, preparing for a disaster shows that we do have faith in his ability to care for us. How so? God’s Word advises us to prepare for potential disasters. w22.12 18 ¶9-10 Friday, July 26 God has sent me ahead of you for the preservation of life.—Gen. 45:5. While Joseph was in prison, Jehovah caused the king of Egypt to have two troubling dreams. When the king learned that Joseph had the ability to interpret dreams, he sent for him. With Jehovah’s help, Joseph interpreted the dreams and impressed Pharaoh with the practical advice he gave him. Seeing that Jehovah was with the young man, Pharaoh appointed Joseph as the food administrator for all of Egypt. (Gen. 41:38, 41-44) Later, a severe famine arose that affected not only Egypt but also Canaan, the land in which Joseph’s family were living. Joseph was now in a position to save his family and thus preserve the line of descent that would lead to the Messiah. Obviously, it was Jehovah who made everything Joseph did succeed. In the end, Jehovah turned the cruel scheme of Joseph’s brothers into a means by which He could accomplish His will. w23.01 17 ¶11-12 Saturday, July 27 Pay attention to yourselves.—Luke 21:34. A person who pays attention to himself is alert to any dangers that threaten his relationship with Jehovah, and he takes steps to avoid them. In this way, he keeps himself in God’s love. (Prov. 22:3; Jude 20, 21) The apostle Paul admonished Christians to pay attention to themselves. For example, he told the Christians in Ephesus: “Keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons.” (Eph. 5:15, 16) Our spirituality is under constant threat, so the Bible counsels us to “keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is” so that we can deal with any type of threat. (Eph. 5:17) To make wise choices, we need to perceive, or sense, “the will of Jehovah.” We can do this by regularly studying God’s Word and meditating on it. The more we understand Jehovah’s will and cultivate “the mind of Christ,” the more likely we will walk “as wise persons,” even when we do not have specific rules to guide our conduct.—1 Cor. 2:14-16. w23.02 16-17 ¶7-9 Sunday, July 28 Be transformed by making your mind over, so that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.—Rom. 12:2. How often do you clean your home? Perhaps before you first moved in, you scoured it thoroughly. But what if you neglected it afterward? As you know, dust and dirt can accumulate quickly. To keep your home presentable, you need to clean it regularly. A similar ongoing effort is required when it comes to our thinking and our personality. Of course, before getting baptized we worked hard to make necessary changes in our life in order to “cleanse ourselves of every defilement of flesh and spirit.” (2 Cor. 7:1) Now, though, we need to follow the apostle Paul’s counsel to “continue to be made new.” (Eph. 4:23) The dust and dirt of this world can quickly accumulate in us. To avoid that outcome and to remain presentable to Jehovah, we must regularly examine our thinking, our personality, and our desires. w23.01 8 ¶1-2 Monday, July 29 He saw God’s spirit descending like a dove and coming upon him.—Matt. 3:16. Imagine what it was like to listen to Jesus teach. How often he referred to the Holy Scriptures from memory! It was at the time of his baptism and his being anointed with holy spirit that Jesus’ memory of his prehuman existence was evidently restored to him. In his first recorded words after his baptism and in some of his last words before his death, Jesus quoted from the Scriptures. (Deut. 8:3; Ps. 31:5; Luke 4:4; 23:46) And during the three and a half years between those two events, Jesus often publicly read and quoted from the Scriptures and explained them. (Matt. 5:17, 18, 21, 22, 27, 28; Luke 4:16-20) Years before he began his ministry, Jesus read and heard God’s Word repeatedly. At home, he no doubt heard Mary and Joseph quote from the Scriptures. (Deut. 6:6, 7) Also, Jesus attended the synagogue every Sabbath with his family. (Luke 4:16) While there, he must have listened carefully as the Scriptures were read. w23.02 8 ¶1-2 Tuesday, July 30 You must love Jehovah your God.—Mark 12:30. There are so many reasons to love Jehovah. For example, you have come to understand that he is “the source of life” and that he is the Giver of “every good gift and every perfect present.” (Ps. 36:9; Jas. 1:17) Every good thing that you enjoy comes from our generous, loving God. The ransom is a wonderful gift that Jehovah has given to us. Why can we say that? Consider the bond that exists between Jehovah and his Son. Jesus said: “The Father loves me” and “I love the Father.” (John 10:17; 14:31) The bond between them grew stronger over the course of billions of years. (Prov. 8:22, 23, 30) Now think how it must have pained God to allow his Son to suffer and die. Jehovah loves mankind—including you—so much that he was willing to give his beloved Son as a sacrifice to enable you and others to live forever. (John 3:16; Gal. 2:20) There can be no greater reason to love God. w23.03 4-5 ¶11-13 Wednesday, July 31 Hold fast to what you have.—Rev. 2:25. We must reject the teachings of apostates. Jesus reproved some in Pergamum for promoting divisions and sects. (Rev. 2:14-16) He commended those in Thyatira who had steered clear of the “deep things of Satan,” and he urged them to “hold fast” to the truth. (Rev. 2:24-26) Weak Christians there who had allowed themselves to be seduced by false teachings needed to repent. What about us today? We must reject any teaching that is opposed to Jehovah’s thinking. Apostates may have “an appearance of godliness,” but they prove “false to its power.” (2 Tim. 3:5) It is easier to identify and reject false teachings when we are diligent students of God’s Word. (2 Tim. 3:14-17; Jude 3, 4) We need to make sure that our worship is acceptable to Jehovah. If we are doing something that could make our worship unacceptable, we need to take immediate action to make things right.—Rev. 2:5, 16; 3:3, 16. w22.05 4 ¶9; 5 ¶11
Popcorn—A Satisfying Snack	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101980006	Popcorn—A Satisfying Snack POPCORN is no “junk food.” It is a nutritious whole-grain snack. The kernel is practically all hard starch, but inside it there is a tiny amount of moisture that turns into steam when heated and explodes into a fluffy, fragrant, white ball 30 to 40 times its original size. At the same time that warm, tantalizing aroma fills the room. Its Value as a Food Nutritionist Kay Munsen of Iowa State University says: “Plain popcorn is an ideal snack. It is not sugary, sweet, fatty, too salty, expensive, or fattening.” And Dr. Betty Alford, chairman of nutrition and food sciences at Texas Women’s University, has stated that one big advantage of eating popcorn is that “it’s filling but you’re not ingesting a lot of calories.” In fact, one cup of unbuttered popcorn has 23 calories compared to 230 calories in one cup of corn chips. If you don’t drink anything the whole time you’re eating it, the dry popcorn draws the fluids out of your system and gives your saliva glands a healthy workout. Besides, it is like swallowing a sponge that soaks up stomach acids, and does away with heartburn and indigestion. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, popcorn is 77 percent carbohydrate, 12 percent protein, 5 percent fat and 2 percent minerals. The tiny kernels contain the B-complex vitamins—niacin, thiamine and riboflavin, as well as vitamin E. The American Dental Association recommends popcorn as a snack because it is crunchy, not sticky, and contains no sugar. So much chewing has to be done to break it up that eating popcorn is good exercise for teeth and gums and has a certain amount of cleansing action. Popcorn was introduced to early American settlers by the Indians. Today it is popular at movies, ball parks, zoos, the circus and all sorts of sporting events. in the United States, however, about 85 percent of popcorn consumed is prepared at home. Some Tips on Preparing It Popping the small roundish kernels is so simple that children delight in doing it. It can be popped in a wire basket shaken over the fire, in a skillet, automatic frypan, Dutch oven, or a more elaborate electric popper. Watch that you don’t put too much corn in the popper! About one half cup of kernels with three tablespoons of oil (butter will burn) will fill a four-quart popper heaping full. A good way to test a container is first to put in the oil and one kernel. When it pops you knows the oil is heated properly. Add the rest of the corn and cover. Be careful not to scorch it. And be sure the steam can escape or else it will make the popped corn tough and soggy. Salt, added before popping, tends to toughen the corn too. If you are not using an electric popper, shake the container constantly to make sure every kernel is heated equally and none is allowed to scoot off to the side. If the popcorn you purchase comes in a glass jar or other airtight container, it is good to keep the container closed tightly to preserve just the degree of moisture that comes in the corn. Do not refrigerate but keep at room temperature. If low in moisture output because it is old or has not been vacuum sealed, then put it in a cheesecloth bag, submerge it in water, drain and hang up in a cool cellar for at least 24 hours before popping. Freshly popped corn, warm and fragrant, is hard to improve on. But if there is a bad aspect, it might be that it can be served in so many combinations that make it a confection. Who can resist caramel or molasses popcorn balls? There are recipes for making peanut-butter nougat bars, popcorn mint chocolate bars, even popcorn pies. Or, if you prefer, it is easy to add to buttered popcorn a pinch of garlic and onion salt and some shredded Cheddar cheese, melted and gently stirred to create a mouth-watering snack! This is far afield from the simple bowl of lightly buttered popcorn with which we started. But, however you serve it, a big bowl of popcorn can be a fragrant, hunger-satisfying snack.
A CONVERSATION WITH A NEIGHBOR Why Does God Allow Suffering?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2014005	A CONVERSATION WITH A NEIGHBOR Why Does God Allow Suffering? The following is a typical conversation that one of Jehovah’s Witnesses might have with a neighbor. Let us imagine that a Witness named Michelle has come to the home of a woman named Sophia. HOW DOES GOD FEEL ABOUT OUR SUFFERING? Michelle: Hi, Sophia. I’m happy I found you at home. Sophia: Me too. Michelle: The last time I was here, we discussed how God feels about our suffering.a You mentioned that this is something you have wondered about for a long time, especially after your mother was injured in a car crash. By the way, how has your mother been doing? Sophia: She has good days and bad days. Today, she’s doing OK. Michelle: I’m glad to hear that. It must be a real challenge to keep your head up in a situation like this. Sophia: It is. Sometimes I wonder how much longer she will have to suffer. Michelle: That’s a natural response. You may recall that at the end of our last visit, I left you with a question about why God has allowed suffering to continue if he has the power to end it. Sophia: Yes, I remember. Michelle: Before we consider the Bible’s answer, let’s review a few of the points we covered last time. Sophia: OK. Michelle: For one thing, we learned that even a faithful man in Bible times wondered why God allows suffering. Yet, God never scolded him for asking about it, nor did God tell him that he simply needed more faith. Sophia: That was a new thought to me. Michelle: We also learned that Jehovah God hates to see us suffer. For example, the Bible says that when his people were going through distress, “it was distressing to him.”b Isn’t it comforting to know that God feels for us when we suffer? Sophia: Yes, it is. Michelle: Finally, we agreed that considering the vast amount of power our Creator possesses, surely he has the ability to step in and end suffering at any moment. Sophia: That’s what I don’t understand. Why does God let all these bad things happen when he has the power to stop them? WHO WAS TELLING THE TRUTH? Michelle: We can start to find the answer to your question by turning to the first book of the Bible, Genesis. Are you familiar with the account of Adam and Eve and the forbidden fruit? Sophia: Yes, I learned that story in Sunday school. God said not to eat from a certain tree, but they went ahead and ate from it anyway. Michelle: That is correct. Now, let’s focus on the events that led up to Adam and Eve’s sin. Those events have a direct bearing on the question of why we suffer. Would you please read Genesis chapter 3, verses 1 through 5? Sophia: OK. “Now the serpent was the most cautious of all the wild animals of the field that Jehovah God had made. So it said to the woman: ‘Did God really say that you must not eat from every tree of the garden?’ At this the woman said to the serpent: ‘We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden. But God has said about the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the garden: “You must not eat from it, no, you must not touch it; otherwise you will die.”’ At this the serpent said to the woman: ‘You certainly will not die. For God knows that in the very day you eat from it, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and bad.’” Michelle: Thank you. Let’s examine these verses for a moment. First, notice that a serpent spoke to the woman, Eve. Another part of the Bible shows that it was really Satan the Devil who was speaking to her through the serpent.c Satan asked Eve about God’s command regarding a certain tree. Did you notice what God had said the penalty would be if Adam and Eve ate from it? Sophia: They would die. Michelle: Correct. Then, with his very next words, Satan made a major accusation against God. Notice what he said: “You certainly will not die.” Satan was calling God a liar! Sophia: I never heard that part of the story before. Michelle: And when Satan called God a liar, he raised an issue that would require time to settle. Can you see why? Sophia: Hmm. I’m not sure. Michelle: Well, maybe I could illustrate the point this way. Let’s say that one day I approach you and claim that I’m physically stronger than you are. How could you prove me wrong? Sophia: I suppose with some sort of a test. Michelle: Yes, exactly. Maybe we would choose a heavy object and then see which one of us was able to lift it. Actually, proving who is stronger is pretty straightforward. Sophia: I see your point. Michelle: But what if instead of saying that I’m stronger, I claimed to be more honest than you? That’s a different matter, isn’t it? Sophia: Yes, I suppose so. Michelle: After all, honesty is not something like strength, which can be proved with a simple test. Sophia: No. Michelle: Really, the only way to settle the challenge would be to let enough time pass for others to observe the two of us and see who really is more honest. Sophia: That makes sense. Michelle: Now, look again at this account in Genesis. Did Satan claim to be stronger than God? Sophia: No. Michelle: God could have quickly proved him wrong. Instead, Satan claimed to be more honest than God. In effect, he said to Eve, ‘God is lying to you, but I’m telling you the truth.’ Sophia: Interesting. Michelle: In his wisdom, then, God knew that the best way to settle the challenge would be to allow time to pass. Eventually, it would become clear who was telling the truth and who was lying. AN IMPORTANT ISSUE Sophia: But as soon as Eve died, didn’t that prove that God was telling the truth? Michelle: In a sense, it did. But there was more to Satan’s challenge. Look again at verse 5. Do you notice what else Satan told Eve? Sophia: He said that if she ate of the fruit, her eyes would be opened. Michelle: Yes, and that she would become “like God, knowing good and bad.” So Satan claimed that God was withholding something good from humans. Sophia: I see. Michelle: And that too was a major challenge. Sophia: What do you mean? Michelle: By his words, Satan implied that Eve—and by extension, all humans—would be better off without God’s rulership. In this case too, Jehovah knew that the best way to address the challenge would be to let Satan try to prove his point. So God has allowed Satan to rule this world for a time. That explains why we see so much suffering around us—it’s because Satan, not God, is the real ruler of the world.d But there is good news. Sophia: What’s that? Michelle: The Bible teaches these two beautiful truths about God. First, Jehovah is there for us when we suffer. For example, consider the words of King David, as recorded at Psalm 31:7. David experienced a lot of suffering during his lifetime, but notice what he was able to say in prayer to God. Would you please read that verse? Sophia: OK. It says: “I will rejoice greatly in your loyal love, for you have seen my affliction; you are aware of my deep distress.” Michelle: So even though David experienced suffering, he found comfort in knowing that Jehovah saw everything he went through. Do you find that comforting—the thought that Jehovah is aware of everything, even our painful emotions that other humans may not fully understand? Sophia: Yes, I do. Michelle: The second beautiful truth is that God will not allow our suffering to go on indefinitely. The Bible teaches that he will soon bring an end to Satan’s wicked rulership. And he will completely undo all the bad things that have happened, including the things that you and your mother have suffered. May I come back next week and show you why we can be sure that God will soon end all suffering?e Sophia: That sounds good. Is there a particular Bible subject that you have wondered about? Are you curious about any of the beliefs or religious practices of Jehovah’s Witnesses? If so, do not hesitate to ask one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He or she will be pleased to discuss such matters with you. a See “A Conversation With a Neighbor—Does God Care About Our Suffering?” in the July 1, 2013, issue of this magazine. b See Isaiah 63:9. c See Revelation 12:9. d See John 12:31; 1 John 5:19. e For more information, see chapter 9 of the book What Does the Bible Really Teach? published by Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Scriptures for Christian Living (scl) 2023	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/scl	Decisions How can we prepare our mind and heart for making good decisions? Ps 1:1-3; Pr 19:20; Ro 14:13; 1Co 10:6-11 See also Ezr 7:10 Why should we avoid being hasty when making important decisions? Pr 21:5; 25:8; 29:20 See also Pr 19:2; Ec 5:2; 1Ti 5:22 Why should we avoid relying on our imperfect heart when making decisions? Pr 28:26; Jer 17:9 See also Nu 15:39; Pr 14:12; Ec 11:9, 10 Relevant Bible account(s): 2Ch 35:20-24—Good King Josiah ignores counsel that originated with Jehovah and fights against Pharaoh Necho How important is prayer when making weighty decisions? Php 4:6, 7; Jas 1:5, 6 Relevant Bible account(s): Lu 6:12-16—Jesus spends the whole night in prayer before selecting his 12 apostles 2Ki 19:10-20, 35—Faced with an overwhelming threat, King Hezekiah turns to Jehovah in prayer and is rescued Who is the best Source of guidance for decisions, and how does he help us make decisions? Ps 119:105; Pr 3:5, 6; 2Ti 3:16, 17 See also Ps 19:7; Pr 6:23; Isa 51:4 Relevant Bible account(s): Ac 15:13-18—Facing a major decision, the governing body in Jerusalem relies on the Scriptures for guidance Decisions regarding: All the affairs of life 1Co 10:31; Col 3:17 Employment See “Work” Entertainment See “Recreation” Marriage See “Marriage” Medical treatment Le 19:26; De 12:16, 23; Lu 5:31; Ac 15:28, 29 Relevant Bible account(s): Ac 19:18-20—The Christians in Ephesus show that they will have nothing to do with magic and spiritism Spiritual goals Mt 6:33; Lu 14:27-30; 18:29, 30 Use of time Eph 5:16; Col 4:5 See also Ro 12:11 How can mature servants of God help us make good decisions? Job 12:12; Pr 11:14; Heb 5:14 Relevant Bible account(s): 1Ki 1:11-31, 51-53—Bath-sheba listens to advice from the prophet Nathan, which saves her and her son Solomon Why should we not rely on others to make decisions for us? Ga 6:5 Why should we be determined to apply God’s counsel and not minimize it? Ps 18:20-25; 141:5; Pr 8:33 See also Lu 7:30 Relevant Bible account(s): Ge 19:12-14, 24, 25—Lot tries to warn his daughters’ intended husbands about impending destruction, but they ignore him 2Ki 17:5-17—The Israelites are taken into exile because of their persistent course of ignoring Jehovah’s counsel Why should we pay keen attention to our conscience when making decisions? Ac 24:16; 1Ti 1:19; 1Pe 3:16 How might we benefit if we consider the possible effects of a decision? De 32:29; Ro 2:6; Ga 6:7, 8 Effects on others Ro 14:19, 21; 15:1, 2; Php 1:10 Effects on our own future Pr 6:26-33; 20:21; 23:17, 18 See also Pr 2:20, 21; 5:3-5 Effects on our relationship with Jehovah Ro 8:7, 8; 12:2; Eph 5:10; Jude 21 Why should we take responsibility for our own decisions? Ro 14:4, 10, 12; Ga 6:5 See also 2Co 5:10
BIBLE VERSES EXPLAINED Exodus 20:12—“Honor Your Father and Your Mother”	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502300107	BIBLE VERSES EXPLAINED Exodus 20:12—“Honor Your Father and Your Mother” “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live a long time in the land that Jehovah your God is giving you.”—Exodus 20:12, New World Translation. “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.”—Exodus 20:12, King James Version. Meaning of Exodus 20:12 God commanded the ancient Israelites to honor their parents. By adding a promise to the command, he gave an additional incentive for obeying it. Although God’s Law to the Israelites, called the Mosaic Law, is no longer binding, his standards have not changed. The principles underlying God’s Law still apply and are therefore important to Christians.—Colossians 3:20. Children—young and old—honor their parents when they respect and obey them. (Leviticus 19:3; Proverbs 1:8) Even when grown children later have families of their own, they continue to take a loving interest in their parents. For example, they ensure that their parents are well cared for in their old age, even giving them financial help when needed.—Matthew 15:4-6; 1 Timothy 5:4, 8. Note that Israelite children had to honor both their father and their mother, thus recognizing the mother’s important role in the family. (Proverbs 6:20; 19:26) Children today should do the same. The command to honor one’s parents has always had limits. Israelite children were not to obey their parents, or any other human, if doing so meant disobeying God. (Deuteronomy 13:6-8) Likewise today, Christians “obey God as ruler rather than men.”—Acts 5:29. In the Law God gave to Israel, he promised that children who honored their parents would “live a long time and . . . prosper” in their God-given land. (Deuteronomy 5:16) They would not suffer the penalty that came upon grown children who ignored God’s law and rebelled against their parents. (Deuteronomy 21:18-21) Time has not changed the principles behind those laws. (Ephesians 6:1-3) Whether young or old, we are accountable to our Creator. And true to his promise, children who obey him and their parents will have a long life. In fact, they have the hope of living forever.—1 Timothy 4:8; 6:18, 19. Context of Exodus 20:12 The command at Exodus 20:12 occupies a significant position in the Ten Commandments, or Ten Words. (Exodus 20:1-17) The commands preceding it defined the Israelites’ obligations to God, such as their need to worship only him. The commands following it defined their obligations to fellow humans, including the commands to be faithful to one’s spouse and not to steal. Thus, the command to “honor your father and your mother” has been viewed as a natural bridge between the two sets of requirements. Read Exodus chapter 20 along with explanatory footnotes and cross-references.
Word-Search Game	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101984006	Word-Search Game In the puzzle are to be found the names of 37 well-known prophets and prophetesses in the Hebrew and Greek Scriptures. They are found spelled forward, backward, up and down as well as diagonally. CLUE: Not all are best known as prophets or prophetesses. Scripture clues are found below. 1. 2 Kings 20:14 2. Matthew 2:17 3. Ezekiel 1:3; 2:1, 2, 5; 24:24 4. Matthew 24:15 5. Romans 9:25 6. Acts 2:16 7. Amos 1:1; 7:12 8. Obadiah 1 9. Matthew 12:39 10. Jeremiah 26:18 11. Nahum 1:1 12. Habakkuk 3:1 13. Zephaniah 1:1 14. Ezra 5:1 15. Ezra 5:1 16. Malachi 1:1 17. Exodus 7:1 18. Deuteronomy 18:15, 17, 18; Acts 3:22 19. Genesis 20:7 20. Jude 14 21. Matthew 21:11 22. Matthew 14:4, 5; Mark 11:32 23. Malachi 4:5 24. Luke 4:27 25. Acts 13:20 26. Acts 21:10 27. Judges 4:4 28. Exodus 15:20 29. Luke 2:36 30. 1 Kings 14:18 31. 2 Chronicles 13:22 32. 1 Kings 1:22, 23 33. 1 Samuel 22:5 34. 1 Kings 16:7 35. 1 Kings 16:12 36. 2 Chronicles 12:5 37. 1 Kings 22:7, 8 Solutions on page 27. Word-Search-Game Solutions 1. Isaiah 2. Jeremiah 3. Ezekiel 4. Daniel 5. Hosea 6. Joel 7. Amos 8. Obadiah 9. Jonah 10. Micah 11. Nahum 12. Habakkuk 13. Zephaniah 14. Haggai 15. Zechariah 16. Malachi 17. Aaron 18. Moses 19. Abraham 20. Enoch 21. Jesus 22. John 23. Elijah 24. Elisha 25. Samuel 26. Agabus 27. Deborah 28. Miriam 29. Anna 30. Ahijah 31. Iddo 32. Nathan 33. Gad 34. Hanani 35. Jehu 36. Shemaiah 37. Micaiah
Life (lp) 1977	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/lp	Chapter 12 How Far Has Preparation Progressed? 1, 2. (a) What do people usually mean by the expression, “God is dead”? (b) Why do some people say this? MUCH has been said in our study thus far about God’s purpose. But what has he been doing to bring that purpose to completion? Some people, not seeing world affairs getting better, say that “God is dead,” meaning that he is not doing anything to help mankind. 2 Such attitude results because it takes a measure of faith to see God’s progressive preparation for a righteous new system of things that will govern the earth. “Faith,” says the Bible, “is the assured expectation of things hoped for, the evident demonstration of realities though not beheld.”—Hebrews 11:1. 3. How do things appear to the person without faith? 3 The person without faith has no real expectation or hope regarding God because he does not believe what God promises. To such a person the things seen appear on the surface to be contrary to what the one with faith is looking for. But why does God require faith? 4. Why does God require faith? 4 God is like a father who wants his children to love him for his goodness and to accept his promises, not having to see everything before they believe their father. A child who has no faith in a good father will also be disobedient and will eventually bring trouble and disgrace on the family. Such a child is undeserving of parental affection. But, just as a good father would do, God responds to his earthly creatures who look to him in faith, and he helps them.—Psalm 119:65-68. 5, 6. (a) Illustrate how events may be very deceptive to those without faith. (b) What was the difference between the Christians and the majority of the Jews in 66-70 C.E.? 5 An illustration of the deceptive surface appearance of things, as compared with the way that faith sees the true situation, is found in the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 C.E. About thirty-three years before it happened, Jesus foretold that a time would come when Jerusalem would be surrounded by armies. When that occurred, he said, Christians should immediately get out of the city, for Jerusalem’s destruction would be near. (Luke 21:20-24) According to the first-century Jewish historian Josephus, the Romans under General Cestius Gallus, in 66 C.E., surrounded Jerusalem, intending to take the city. Then, for some unexplained reason, Gallus withdrew. Those Jews and others who had become Christians immediately fled, because they recognized that this was exactly what Jesus had prophesied. Other Jews, however, pursued Gallus’ troops and inflicted heavy casualties upon them. 6 The majority of Jerusalem’s Jews were elated at their victory. The danger appeared past. But the Christians did not try to return to Jerusalem. This may have looked foolish to the Jews who had remained behind. However, less than four years later the Romans returned under General Titus and completely destroyed the city and more than nine tenths of its inhabitants. Yes, those having faith saw that which did not appear on the surface and saved their lives. They saw something that the Jews in general, though they had the opportunity to do so, did not see. As a people, the Jews had rejected Jesus Christ, and so had rejected the wisdom that would have saved them.—Compare Jeremiah 8:9. 7. How can we know that God has been working toward the fulfillment of his promise? 7 We need to get the right perspective as to what God has been doing toward bringing about an end to mankind’s suffering, just as he has promised. How can we do this? By examining the historical record. If we do, we will see that God has been progressively working out his purpose from the beginning of mankind’s troubles. We will see, not just theories or speculations, but “the evident demonstration of realities” on which to build firm faith. LAYING A FOUNDATION 8. Why has God taken a long time to bring in his rule over earth? 8 Jehovah has promised that he will govern the entire earth, bringing in peace and unity. But he is not going to rule simply by force. He purposes to have people enlightened, educated to know him and to submit willingly to his administration. (Psalm 110:3) With this in view, it has taken time to establish a foundation for an entire world of mankind that would serve him. God had to provide a knowledge of the standards and principles of his righteous administration and how it operates. 9. Why is God’s way of teaching us better than if he spoke in a loud voice from heaven? 9 But Jehovah is an invisible God. (1 Timothy 1:17) How would he make men of flesh and blood understand? Not by a mere display of power, speaking in awe-inspiring tones from heaven. No, God would reveal his principles and qualities by having dealings with people. How much more instructive, convincing and moving, not only to hear and read God’s declarations as recorded by faithful men, but, additionally, to see in the historical record the proof that what he said he also carried out. 10. When did God first strikingly demonstrate to the world that he is no inactive God, but is interested in men’s affairs? 10 For the first part of mankind’s history—up to the time of the Flood—Jehovah God let men go the way they chose, either to put faith in him or not. But he demonstrated that he was no “dead” or inactive God when he destroyed that world. The reason was that it had become so corrupt that it endangered pure worship and the lives of those who wanted to do what was right. God preserved in the ark those few who at that time acknowledged his rulership.—Genesis 6:11-13, 17-20; 1 Peter 3:20. 11, 12. (a) How did God proceed after the Flood? (b) In laying a foundation for his government over the earth, what things has he made it possible for men to see? 11 After the Flood, God proceeded to lay a foundation for his coming administration of earth’s affairs by the promised “seed,” the Messiah. In the meantime, God let the nations go on in their independent course and make a record that stands as proof of men’s inability to govern themselves. 12 In laying the foundation for his government over the earth, Jehovah has provided these necessary things: (1) a firm basis for faith in the administration he would provide, (2) a knowledge of the principles of his government, (3) a demonstration of his qualities as Universal Ruler and (4) a sure and unmistakable identification of the Messiah, the One who would be mankind’s Deliverer and the King ruling in Jehovah’s name. (Galatians 3:24) At the same time a comparison with man-rule has proved the superiority, deservedness and rightness of God’s rulership. ONE NATION SELECTED TO SERVE FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL 13, 14. What did God accomplish for our benefit by using the ancient nation of Israel? 13 What means did God use in laying such a foundation? First, he selected one nation, the nation of ancient Israel, to become a living demonstration of his principles and dealings. Thereby Jehovah revealed himself and his marvelous qualities of justice and wisdom when he chastised Israel for their sins, for they proved, for the most part, to be disobedient. (Romans 10:21) Then, too, he exhibited his love, mercy and long-suffering toward them whenever they repented. 14 Additionally, Israelite history demonstrates what happens when God’s wise, righteous laws are either obeyed or disobeyed; while world history reveals the outcome to those who live without the benefit of the divine law.—1 Corinthians 12:2; Ephesians 4:17-19. REASON FOR ISRAEL’S SELECTION 15. Did God show partiality in using the nation of Israel? Explain. 15 Why was Israel, rather than some other nation, selected? Not because they were better, but because of God’s love for Abraham their forefather. (Deuteronomy 7:7, 8; 2 Kings 13:23) Some four hundred years after the Flood, Jehovah found Abraham to be a man who accepted God at His word, with unquestioning faith and obedience. (Genesis 15:1, 6; Romans 4:18-22) Consequently, Abraham’s offspring through his faithful wife Sarah received the unique blessing of being chosen as the people that Jehovah God would use to accomplish the purpose he had in mind. The promised “seed” would come through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. 16, 17. In dealing with ancient Israel, did God do injustice to the other nations? Explain. 16 The other nations of that time went their own way of self-rule and disobedience to God. God allowed them to enjoy the sun and rain and the fruitage of the earth. (Acts 14:16, 17; Matthew 5:45) But God did not enter into dealings with them, except when individuals from among them came to him in faith, or when these nations touched upon the affairs of his chosen nation.—Deuteronomy 32:8. 17 But Jehovah had not forgotten the other nations. While dealing exclusively with Israel, he was working out a purpose to bless the people of these nations later, although they were completely ignorant of this fact.—Genesis 22:18. 18. In being used and blessed by God, was Israel under heavier judgment? 18 No one can complain about God’s selecting one nation to provide this foundation for our faith and understanding today. During this period Israel was blessed above the other nations, it is true. But, by having Jehovah’s name placed upon it, that nation also faced a very heavy responsibility that the other nations did not bear. Israel had to account directly to God. The people were severely disciplined by Jehovah when they broke his laws.—Deuteronomy 28:15-68. 19. What further benefit was brought to us by God’s use of ancient Israel, as shown at Romans 3:1, 2? 19 Another purpose accomplished by using the one nation was the preserving of the truth. This, God did by keeping Israel separate from the unbelieving peoples around them, by disciplining that nation and holding it together under his Law covenant. He also committed to them his “sacred pronouncements,” which we now find in the Bible. (Romans 3:1, 2) In the meantime the other nations, under man-rule, continuously served a wide variety of false gods of their own making, and with a confusing mixture of doctrines.—Psalms 96:5; 115:2-8. 20. (a) What primary thing did the law given to Israel accomplish? (Romans 10:4) (b) What other good things do we derive from studying the Hebrew Scriptures? 20 Furthermore, all during this time Jehovah was working out matters to provide the finest gift to mankind—the principal “seed” of promise, Christ Jesus, the King of God’s kingdom to rule the earth. Through him, God will bring life to all obedient men. (Acts 17:30, 31) How God’s wisdom shines in furnishing an unmistakable identification and therefore a basis for faith in the Messiah when he finally arrived! The Most High provided this positive identification in the genealogy, chronology and prophecy of the Hebrew Scriptures. (John 5:39) Moreover, the historical record preserved in the Hebrew Scriptures not only gives comfort and hope but also serves as a guide for present living. It provides patterns as well as examples for “us upon whom the ends of the systems of things have arrived.”—1 Corinthians 10:11; Hebrews 10:1. JESUS SELECTS ASSOCIATES FOR RULERSHIP 21, 22. Why was Jesus, when on earth, selective in the choice of his intimate disciples? (Luke 9:57-62) 21 Finally the long-awaited Messiah appeared. As God’s anointed one, Jesus Christ was selective, just as God had been, in the people he chose to be his intimate disciples. (Luke 8:38, 39) He was here, it is true, to provide the ransom for the salvation of all men who will accept it. (Matthew 20:28; John 3:16) But he knew that not until later would he be Head of a kingdom that would bring the benefits of his sacrifice to all mankind. And just as any ruler not yet inaugurated into office thinks first of the men he will place in important administrative positions under him, so Jesus was interested, first, in those who would be associated with him in the Kingdom government.—Luke 22:28, 29; John 17:12. 22 Accordingly, Jesus, through prayer and direction of God’s spirit, selected his apostles first. (Luke 6:12-16) These were to be the foundation of an administrative body to operate under his headship. 23. (a) What hope was held out through the preaching of Jesus and his apostles? (b) Were these disciples to rule over other men while they were on earth? (1 Corinthians 4:8) 23 In reading the Christian Greek Scriptures we observe that the hope held out to all those who accepted the preaching of Jesus and his apostles was that of sharing with Jesus Christ in his Kingdom rule in heaven. (2 Timothy 2:12; Hebrews 3:1; 1 Peter 1:1-4) However, while on earth these disciples would not be rulers, but would be known simply as “the congregation of God.” They would merely declare God’s excellencies to the people.—1 Peter 2:9. 24. What primary work of God has been carried on from the time of Christ’s resurrection until now? 24 So, the long time period following Christ’s death and his taking of Kingdom power would be occupied in selecting, training, testing, proving and qualifying those who would reign with Christ. The requirements were very strict. According to the Scriptures, God limited the number of this select administrative body under Jesus Christ to 144,000 persons.—Revelation 14:1-3. 25. What is the purpose of the severe testing that the prospective members of Christ’s Kingdom government have received? 25 Jehovah trains and disciplines these prospective kings and priests through the many tests they undergo. In this way they become fitted exactly for the place he has for them in his government. (Ephesians 2:10; Romans 8:29) Additionally, because of this perfect training and testing he can be sure of their everlasting loyalty and incorruptness in rulership. It is said of them: “No falsehood was found in their mouths; they are without blemish.” (Revelation 14:5) This means that their devotion and integrity are free from defect. (Compare Romans 7:25.) They are trustworthy in every respect. Jehovah can safely give them immortal heavenly life. (1 Corinthians 15:50-54) But let us now consider how God also had the rest of humankind in mind as he tested and approved those whom he would use as his governmental body. MERCIFUL RULERS ASSURED 26. How did Christ qualify to become mankind’s High Priest and Ruler? 26 Jesus Christ, the congregation’s Head, underwent a most severe test to prove his qualifications. Of him it is said: “We have as high priest, not one who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has been tested in all respects like ourselves, but without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15) What wisdom and fairness on God’s part! The Ruler that he puts over mankind will therefore never deal unjustly or partially. 27. What experiences have equipped him to be a ruler in whom we can have full faith? 27 Also, because of Christ’s previous experience in heaven, where he worked with his Father in the creation of all other things, he understands the makeup of men and women. (John 1:10; 2:25) But more than that, by becoming a man of blood and flesh on earth he experienced the service of God under adverse conditions. He fully understands human problems. He knows what it means to suffer. (Hebrews 5:7-9) All men can have full faith in Christ’s rulership, knowing that he has undergone the same trials successfully and knows what humans need.—Hebrews 4:16; John 16:33. 28. Why has God’s allowance of a 1,900-year period until now not been a waste of time? 28 Also, consider God’s wisdom in his manner of selecting the body of 144,000 associate kings and priests. It has not been a waste of time. During the broad scope of the last nineteen centuries these men and women have been chosen from all walks of life, all races and languages and all backgrounds. There is simply no problem that some of them have not faced and overcome. These, too, will be sympathetic and merciful associate rulers, able to help men and women of all kinds. FOUNDATION FOR A “NEW EARTH” 29. What further preparation must God make in order that his kingdom bring to pass the doing of his will “as in heaven, also upon earth”? (Matthew 6:10) 29 Does the mere selection of the last ones of those who will become heavenly kings and priests with Christ complete God’s preparations? Does it mean that the thousand-year rule may then begin, and the resurrection of the dead may take place? No, for first God must clean up the earth by destroying the corrupt system of things now existing. However, when he does this, he is not going to leave a “vacuum.” That is, he is not going to leave the earth a desolate globe, with no life, no persons serving him, any more than he did so at the Flood. (Isaiah 45:18) Rather, God will have people who survive and who will begin bringing about paradise conditions. They will be on hand when the time comes to welcome back the dead, and they will help them on the way to life. 30. What further group will God gather, to survive the destruction of the present system of things? 30 Who will the survivors of that destruction be? The apostle John, in describing the vision that Christ gave him, says, after speaking of the 144,000 Kingdom heirs: “After these things I saw, and, look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues.” The angel bringing the vision then explained who this unnumbered multitude was: “These are the ones that come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”—Revelation 7:9, 14; Isaiah 2:2-4. 31. What part will the “great crowd” play in God’s progressive purpose? 31 These people will form a nucleus, the “foundation” of a “new earth.” (Compare Isaiah 51:16.) Surviving the “great tribulation,” they will immediately begin working under the direction of the “new heavens” of Christ and his 144,000 associate kings and priests, to subdue the earth. They will carry on true worship in the earth as God’s representatives, and will introduce the resurrected dead to true worship. They will logically see that there are food and homes ready for these people, and will serve as teachers in the ways of righteousness. 32. Who will make up the “great crowd,” and when are they selected and gathered? 32 Since the “great crowd” is to survive the “great tribulation,” it is obvious that they would be gathered from among people living in the time just prior to the end of this present system of things. This gathering work, then, is also a part of God’s preparatory work before the thousand-year reign of Christ begins. Gathering the “great crowd,” however, does not take centuries, as did God’s dealing with Israel and, later, his gathering of the 144,000 joint heirs with Christ. Nevertheless, it does take time. This selection and gathering are taking place now, and will evidently be completed during the lifetime of one generation. Some of that generation will survive into the period of Christ’s thousand-year reign.—Luke 21:32. 33, 34. (a) During the time of mankind’s history of about 6,000 years, what has God accomplished? (b) Could it be rightly said that “God is dead” or that he is slow? 33 Summing up, we see that God has certainly not wasted time. (2 Peter 3:9) He has made it a matter of record that man cannot successfully rule the world. He has demonstrated his patience and his good qualities in the progressive steps he has taken toward bringing in his Kingdom rule. He has shown what kind of government he administers. And he has given us an abundance of evidence that Jesus Christ is the principal one of the promised “seed” of Abraham, the Messiah, the King who will rule the earth in righteousness.—Galatians 3:16. 34 Consequently, those who sincerely want to know Jehovah God can do so. They can gain a firm faith in his purposes, for they have realities upon which to base that faith. [Picture on page 141] Survivors of the great tribulation will be persons who now demonstrate faith in God’s promises
Greatest Man (gt) 1991	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt	Chapter 40 A Lesson in Mercy JESUS may still be in Nain, where he recently resurrected a widow’s son, or perhaps he is visiting a city nearby. A Pharisee named Simon desires a closer look at the one who is performing such remarkable works. So he invites Jesus to have a meal with him. Viewing the occasion as an opportunity to minister to those present, Jesus accepts the invitation, even as he has accepted invitations to eat with tax collectors and sinners. Yet, when he enters Simon’s house, Jesus does not receive the cordial attention usually accorded guests. Sandal-clad feet become hot and dirty as a result of traveling dusty roads, and it is a customary act of hospitality to wash the feet of guests with cool water. But Jesus’ feet are not washed when he arrives. Neither does he receive a welcoming kiss, which is common etiquette. And the customary oil of hospitality is not provided for his hair. During the course of the meal, while the guests are reclining at the table, an uninvited woman quietly enters the room. She is known in the city to be living an immoral life. Likely she has heard Jesus’ teachings, including his invitation for ‘all those who are loaded down to come to him for refreshment.’ And being deeply moved by what she has seen and heard, she has now sought out Jesus. The woman comes up behind Jesus at the table and kneels at his feet. As her tears fall on his feet, she wipes them off with her hair. She also takes perfumed oil from her flask, and as she tenderly kisses his feet, she pours the oil on them. Simon watches with disapproval. “This man, if he were a prophet,” he reasons, “would know who and what kind of woman it is that is touching him, that she is a sinner.” Perceiving his thinking, Jesus says: “Simon, I have something to say to you.” “Teacher, say it!” he responds. “Two men were debtors to a certain lender,” Jesus begins. “The one was in debt for five hundred denarii, but the other for fifty. When they did not have anything with which to pay back, he freely forgave them both. Therefore, which of them will love him the more?” “I suppose,” says Simon, perhaps with an air of indifference at the seeming irrelevance of the question, “it is the one to whom he freely forgave the more.” “You judged correctly,” Jesus says. And then turning to the woman, he says to Simon: “Do you behold this woman? I entered into your house; you gave me no water for my feet. But this woman wet my feet with her tears and wiped them off with her hair. You gave me no kiss; but this woman, from the hour that I came in, did not leave off tenderly kissing my feet. You did not grease my head with oil; but this woman greased my feet with perfumed oil.” The woman has thus given evidence of heartfelt repentance for her immoral past. So Jesus concludes, saying: “By virtue of this, I tell you, her sins, many though they are, are forgiven, because she loved much; but he who is forgiven little, loves little.” Jesus is in no way excusing or condoning immorality. Rather, this incident reveals his compassionate understanding of people who make mistakes in life but who then manifest that they are sorry for these and so come to Christ for relief. Providing true refreshment to the woman, Jesus says: “Your sins are forgiven. . . . Your faith has saved you; go your way in peace.” Luke 7:36-50; Matthew 11:28-30. ▪ How is Jesus received by his host, Simon? ▪ Who seeks Jesus out, and why? ▪ What illustration does Jesus provide, and how does he apply it?
Sing Praises (ssb) 1984	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb	Song 116 “You Must Assist Those Who Are Weak” (Acts 20:35) 1. Many are the weaknesses That we all possess. But Jehovah God, indeed, Loves us nonetheless. He is so merciful, His ways commendable. May we imitate his love, Help those in distress. 2. Rather than condemn the weak, We should bear in mind That much good can be obtained By our being kind. May we be diligent, Give them encouragement. Lending them our full support, Comfort they will find. 3. ‘Who is weak and I’m not weak?’ Paul did emphasize. We should feel what others feel, With them sympathize. Those stronger we exhort: ‘Give weak ones your support.’ With Christ’s blood they all were bought, Life to realize. 4. That we should assist the weak, God’s Word makes this plain. Helping them in deed and truth, Blessings we’ll obtain. They to our God belong. Hence they should all be strong. If the weak we do assist, God will us sustain.
Repair Your Car Safely	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102004006	Repair Your Car Safely Kevin knew from experience how to change the oil in his car. He knew how to remove the drain plug on the oil pan, empty the crankcase, replace the plug, and tighten it. But one time as Kevin pushed firmly on his wrench, it slipped off the bolt head. Kevin’s hand smashed into a sharp piece of metal, slashing his palm badly enough to require several stitches. LIKE Kevin, many people routinely work on their own car—some simply because it cuts costs. But learning the basics of maintenance and repair can have other benefits as well. “Once, during a long road trip, my car developed a problem,” says a woman named Kathy. “Because I had learned to work on my car, I was able to fix it myself and continue the journey.” Perhaps you too would like to be able to maintain and repair your car. But how can you do so safely? Think Ahead! Your first priority should be safety.a As Kevin’s injury illustrates, it is easy to hurt yourself when working in tight spaces or when exerting force with a tool. How can you avoid injury? When fastening a bolt with a wrench, make sure that the tool is properly seated over it. Ask yourself, ‘If the tool slips, where will my hand go?’ Wearing gloves or wrapping a rag around your hand can provide a measure of protection. To help control the force you are exerting, if possible, pull the tool toward you instead of pushing it away. Likewise, when freeing a stuck bolt, your goal should be to move it just a quarter of a turn at a time. These principles of foresight and control always apply. Never let haste cause you to neglect them! Accidents often occur when a person tries to use a tool for something other than its intended purpose. Tom, for instance, was having a difficult time changing the spark plugs in his car. Why? His socket was too short, and it kept slipping off the first plug. Finally, Tom attached an extension between the socket and the ratchet. He then changed the five remaining plugs in the same time that it took him to change the first one—and he did it safely! The lesson? Having the right tool is essential. Foreign matter can get into your eyes while you are working under the car or looking up under the dashboard. How can this be prevented? “Wear some kind of eye protection, such as goggles,” says Sean, who has worked as a mechanic for over ten years. “In the shop where I work,” he adds, “using such safety equipment is mandatory.” You should also wear eye protection when working near hazardous liquids, such as battery acid. When working under your car, always use a properly designed jack stand, a professional lift, or a reinforced repair dugout. Never get under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack. The owner’s manual of some cars indicates where jacks and jack stands should be placed to give the car adequate support. Be aware, however, that a sudden force—such as the kind that is exerted when breaking a stubborn bolt loose—could cause the car to shift and slip off its supports. Preventing Hazardous Surprises Some parts of your car can get quite hot and burn you if you touch them. For example, the water inside the radiator remains hot for some time after the engine has been turned off. So do not remove the radiator cap until it is cool enough to touch with your bare hand. On some cars, the radiator fan is electrically driven and comes on automatically—even after the engine has been turned off. To avoid injury, disconnect the ground wire from the battery before starting your work. When working on your car, remove rings and jewelry, especially if the engine is running. Besides catching on protruding parts, metal jewelry can cause an electrical short circuit and turn red-hot! Loose sleeves as well as ties, scarves, and even long hair can become entangled in moving parts. Even when you think that your work is completed, there is one last rule to follow. “Always double-check your work,” says Dirk, a service adviser for a busy repair shop. “Once,” he continues, “a mechanic forgot to do this after working on brakes. The brakes failed, and the car ran right into my desk!” Handling Emergencies One day Tom noticed that his car was overheating. A hose had burst, and radiator water had escaped. Using a roll of duct tape that he kept in the car, Tom was able to perform a temporary repair by taping the hose and pouring a mixture of antifreeze and water into the radiator. Then, he drove to an auto parts store to buy a new hose. Tom’s experience illustrates the need to be prepared by keeping repair items in your car. While driving, be alert to any strange noises or smells. Yvonne noticed a strange smell coming from the engine of the car. Her husband opened the hood and saw a miniature geyser of antifreeze squirting up from a tiny hole in the upper part of the radiator hose. Because the problem was detected before the car overheated, Yvonne and her husband were able to drive to a repair shop. What should you do if your car breaks down on the highway? First, try to get the car as far off the road as possible. Passengers, especially children, should stay inside the car with seat belts fastened. If you must be outside the car, stand as far away from traffic as possible. Turn on the emergency lights. Leave the hood up to signal that you are having car trouble. Carefully set out flares or other warning signs. If your car’s battery is dead, you may choose to jump the battery with the help of another vehicle. But be aware that car batteries produce highly flammable gas. A spark can ignite this gas, producing an explosion that could shower you with corrosive acid. Therefore, if you or the person who is helping you is in doubt about how to jump the battery, wait for assistance. As we have seen, maintaining a car is a serious responsibility. Whether you work on your car to care for an emergency or simply to perform routine maintenance, always remember: Being safety conscious is a must! [Footnote] a If you are performing a task for the first time, try to obtain a copy of a repair manual for your car or ask an experienced friend for help. If your car has computerized or other high-tech components, it might be better to take your vehicle to a mechanic who has the necessary equipment and experience to make repairs. [Blurb on page 21] Accidents often occur when a person tries to use a tool for something other than its intended purpose [Box/Pictures on page 19] Items to Keep in Your Car ◼ Spare tire and jack ◼ Jumper cables ◼ Flares or reflectors ◼ Tools and goggles ◼ Flashlight ◼ Extra containers of fluids (oil, water, antifreeze, brake fluid) ◼ Duct tape ◼ Spare fuses ◼ Tow rope (Note: In some places it may be legal only for a licensed wrecker to tow your car) ◼ Box to keep tools neat and containers upright You may wish to carry additional repair items. However, some automobile clubs that provide emergency roadside service are reluctant to work on a broken-down car if the owner has begun making certain repairs himself. If you belong to an automobile club, find out what type of repairs are permitted.
Sing Praises (ssb) 1984	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb	Song 169 The New Song (Psalm 98:1) 1. Sing to God the Lord a song of gladness that is new; Tell of all the great things he’s done and yet will do. Praise his holy arm and his right hand for victory. In the sight of all men, he has judged righteously. (Chorus) 2. Make a joyous shout to God Jehovah, all the earth; Sing to God your praises with jubilance and mirth. Praise Jehovah God, yes, sing aloud before the Lord. Harp and horn and trumpet sound praise in full accord. (Chorus) 3. Let the mighty sea and all that therein is roar praise. Let those on the earth now exulting voices raise. Let the floods rejoice, and let the rivers clap their hands. Hills and mountains also sing praises in all lands. (CHORUS) Sing! Sing! Sing! Loud let the new song ring. Sing! Sing! Sing! Jehovah now is King.
Teacher (lr) 2003	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/lr	Learn From the Great Teacher
You Can Keep Your Teeth!	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101982006	You Can Keep Your Teeth! DID you know that even if you don’t have any cavities, you can still lose your teeth? “I’ve had to extract perfectly good teeth,” said a dentist with 35 years of experience. ‘But, why?’ you ask. Periodontal (gum) diseasea is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. According to The Journal of Preventive Dentistry, it “is one of the most common diseases known to mankind. It affects about nine out of every 10 adults over the age of 50 and about 75% of those between the ages of 35 and 50.” Even young children can show early signs of the disease. Unless treated, it destroys the tooth-supporting structures. So if you want to keep your teeth, you should be concerned not only about cavities but also about gum disease. And, yet, many people do not realize they have gum disease. In its early stages, it usually is not painful. How can you know if you have it? Recognizing the Symptoms The most common form of gum disease is an inflammation of the gums (known as gingivitis). Any unusual redness of the gum tissues indicates inflammation. Of course, spontaneous bleeding under pressure, or a “pink toothbrush,” is an obvious sign of gum inflammation. “Pyorrhea” (or, periodontitis) is a more advanced form of gum disease, affecting the jawbone as well as the gums. It usually is recognized by the pus that can be squeezed out around the teeth when pressure is exerted on the gums. However, pus flow is the end result of the chronic disease process, not the disease itself. Generally, there is mouth odor and a bad taste in the mouth, and the gums appear very smooth and flabby. The recession of the gums away from the teeth is another symptom. Excessive tooth movement indicates that the disease has affected the deeper structures. Tooth migration or drifting can also be noted in some areas, causing spaces between the teeth or misalignment. ‘What causes gum disease?’ you may be wondering. Plaque Formation—A Significant Factor Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, together with partially digested food debris, that forms continuously on your teeth. It can cause much damage. When you eat, plaque uses the sugar from your food to produce acids. These acids and other irritants can inflame the gums and make them sensitive and more likely to bleed. If left on your teeth, plaque can lead to even more serious problems. Deposits of calcium salts from your saliva cause the plaque to harden and thicken and become tightly joined to the teeth. At this point it is called calculus (or, tartar). As calculus accumulates, its surface is rough and it causes the gums slowly to detach from the teeth. This leaves pockets around the teeth that become filled with bacteria, food debris and pus. Eventually, the bone structure also can be affected. In some cases, it seems to melt away and the teeth begin to loosen. What happens can be compared to rocking a fence post back and forth in the ground—it becomes more and more movable. Unless something is done to arrest the disease, loss of the affected teeth is imminent. Is there anything you can do to prevent gum disease? Prevention The best way to prevent gum disease is to keep your teeth relatively plaque free. How? “Cut down on sugar to help limit plaque growth and its irritation. Avoid sugary snacks and sweets that stick to your teeth,” recommends the American Dental Association. Additionally, remove the plaque by brushing your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day, preferably after every meal. And clean between your teeth daily with dental floss. Since plaque forms every day, it is important to remove it before it hardens and forms calculus. Regular dental checkups can also help. Your dentist can determine if there are any changes in the gum tissues and the bone around your teeth. He can let you know how good a job you are doing in keeping your teeth plaque free and perhaps tell you how to use your toothbrush more effectively. While your doing your best to keep your teeth plaque free can help to prevent gum disease, there are a number of other causes that explain why some people are more susceptible to the disease than others. Why Some Are More Susceptible Certain diseases, such as anemia and diabetes, affect the gum and bone structures of the mouth and thus can make some persons more susceptible to the disease. The hormonal balance within the body, too, is believed to contribute to the periodontal condition. Proper nutrition is also a factor, since the food you eat affects your body as a whole, including the gums and bones that support your teeth. A dietary lack of essential vitamins and minerals can make you more susceptible to the disease. There are also a number of local factors that can cause gum irritation and allow pockets to form around the teeth. These include: fillings that do not make proper contact with adjacent teeth; overhanging fillings, that is, those in which the filling material extends beneath the gum tissue, causing irritation; loss of a tooth, and teeth that do not make balanced contact when the jaws are closed. Then, too, soft diet can be a factor in the development of gum disease, because the basis for resistance to the disease is vigorous blood circulation in the tissues. The toothbrush can help to make up for the lack of stimulation due to a soft diet, but only if it is used vigorously and properly. Much has been written about the relation of smoking and the use of betel nut to gum disease. Generally speaking, there is a higher incidence of gum disease among those who use such products, especially when this is combined with poor oral hygiene. Perhaps you are one of the millions who are already afflicted with gum disease. You, then, may be wondering . . . What Can Be Done? ‘All you really need to do is brush your teeth better,’ many feel. However, if you already have the disease, good professional help should be sought. Why? Every case of gum disease that has not progressed too far requires a thorough scaling and polishing of the teeth. This involves the removal of the calculus and plaque deposits on all tooth surfaces above and below the gum line. The calculus is too hard for you to remove by simply brushing your teeth. In addition, if you have high spots, that is, if your teeth do not make balanced contact when you close your jaws, your dentist may have to adjust the way your teeth come together. This will prevent your teeth from becoming mobile and allowing pockets to form. Also, the replacement of any missing teeth helps to keep the remaining teeth from drifting. A thorough program of treatment includes the replacement of poorly done fillings. Why? Well, this helps to restore adequate contact between the teeth and prevents food impaction. It also enables you to clean your teeth more easily. Surgical techniques have been developed to treat and even arrest some fairly advanced cases of gum disease. Years ago, treatment was directed at eliminating the basic sign of pyorrhea, pus flow. Now, however, periodontists think in terms of achieving stabilization of the teeth, reattachment of the gum tissues to the tooth and regeneration of some lost bone. The latter can perhaps be done only in a few instances. But, remember, treatment is not always successful in more advanced cases. The removal of affected teeth and denture construction is sometimes a necessary alternative. Do Your Part “Unless you cooperate, you might as well save your money,” said one professional. Yes, for any treatment to be successful, you must do your part. You must become proficient at cleaning your teeth, not simply brushing them. Bacterial plaque can be eliminated from the tooth surfaces through thorough, vigorous use of brush, floss and periodontal aid or stimulator. Of course, you will need good self-discipline to put these methods into practice. So, what about you? Do you have healthy teeth and supporting tissues? If you do, take care of them! Gum disease has reached epidemic proportions in all parts of the earth. Nevertheless, the capabilities of the dental profession to prevent some aspects of this affliction have improved greatly. So have methods of treatment and control after it has developed. Losing your teeth is not necessarily unavoidable in old age. For many people, gum disease can be checked and a healthy condition maintained by appropriate professional treatment, conscientious home care and sound nutritional habits. Remember, you are the person most responsible for the care of your teeth. So take care of your teeth—if you hope to keep them! [Footnotes] a “Periodontal” is defined as “around a tooth.” Periodontal disease is a disease process that affects the tissues about a tooth. [Picture on page 22] Progress of periodontal disease
Did God Use Evolution to Create the Different Types of Life?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502019185	Did God Use Evolution to Create the Different Types of Life? The Bible’s answer No. The Bible clearly states that God created humans as well as different “kinds” of animal and plant life.a (Genesis 1:12, 21, 25, 27; Revelation 4:11) It says that the entire human family descended from Adam and Eve, our first parents. (Genesis 3:20; 4:1) The Bible account does not support the theory that God used evolution to bring about the different kinds of life, sometimes called theistic evolution. The fact is, though, that nothing in the Bible conflicts with scientific observations that variations occur within each kind of life.b Did God use evolution? Is evolution compatible with the Bible? What about the ability of plants and animals to adapt? Did God use evolution? The term “theistic evolution” refers to a broad variety of ideas. According to the Encyclopædia Britannica, the term promotes the idea that “natural selection is one of the mechanisms with which God directs the natural world.” Theistic evolution can also include the following ideas: All living organisms descended from common ancestors in the distant past. One kind of life-form can evolve into a completely different kind of life-form, a concept that is sometimes referred to as macroevolution. God is somehow ultimately responsible for these processes. Is evolution compatible with the Bible? Theistic evolution implies that the Bible’s account of creation in Genesis is not completely accurate. However, Jesus referred to the Genesis account as historical fact. (Genesis 1:26, 27; 2:18-24; Matthew 19:4-6) The Bible says that before coming to earth, Jesus lived in heaven with God and was involved in helping God to bring “all things” into existence. (John 1:3) Therefore, the idea that God used evolution to bring about different life-forms is incompatible with Bible teachings. What about the ability of plants and animals to adapt? The Bible does not explain how much variation can occur within a kind. Neither does it contradict the fact that the different kinds of animals and plants created by God can vary as they breed or adapt to new environments. Although some view such adaptations as a form of evolution, no new kind of life is produced. a The Bible uses the word “kind,” which is much broader in meaning than the word “species” as used by scientists. Often, what scientists choose to call the evolution of a new species is simply a matter of variation within a kind, as the word is used in the Genesis account. b This concept is sometimes referred to as microevolution.
World Government (go) 1977	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/go	Chapter 9 The “Sign” of Imminence of the World Government 1, 2. (a) Proof of imminence of God’s world government is furnished in what? (b) What needs to be done before the “great tribulation”? HOW HAPPY we can be that rule of all the earth by political governments of imperfect men is nearing its end! At the same time the perfect world government promised by God is imminent. The proof of this is available today. Since the year 1914 we have discerned the unfolding, unerring “sign” of this. Nineteen centuries ago a prophet greater than Daniel described that “sign” in detail. We can now read its meaning if we will. The Describer of this timely “sign” made reference to things foretold in Daniel, chapter twelve. For instance, along in his great prophecy he said to his twelve apostles on the Mount of Olives: 2 “And this good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come. “Therefore, when you catch sight of the disgusting thing that causes desolation, as spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in a holy place, (let the reader use discernment,) then let those in Judea begin fleeing to the mountains. Let the man on the housetop not come down to take the goods out of his house; and let the man in the field not return to the house to pick up his outer garment. Woe to the pregnant women and those suckling a baby in those days! Keep praying that your flight may not occur in wintertime, nor on the sabbath day; for then there will be great tribulation such as has not occurred since the world’s beginning until now, no, nor will occur again. In fact, unless those days were cut short, no flesh would be saved; but on account of the chosen ones those days will be cut short.”—Matthew 24:14-22; Mark 13:14-20. 3. When did Christianized Jews flee from the “holy place”? Why? 3 Back in the days of the apostles of Jesus Christ the “holy place” was the city of Jerusalem with its gorgeous temple for the worship of Jehovah as God. Judea was a Roman province, of which Jerusalem was the religious capital. The “disgusting thing that is causing desolation,” as referred to at Daniel 12:11, was the military legions of the Roman Empire, the Sixth World Power of Bible prophecy. By a violent military attack the “disgusting thing” of that day was “standing” for a time in the “holy place” in the autumn of the year 66 C.E. That was a warning signal to the Christianized Jews still residing in Jerusalem. So, after the “disgusting thing” withdrew temporarily from Jerusalem, the now duly warned Christians obediently fled from the doomed “holy place.” Many of these fugitives fled to the “mountains” in the Roman province of Perea on the other side of the Jordan River. 4. What things came as foretold on that Jewish generation? 4 It was well that those Christianized Jews did so, for, four years later, the “disgusting thing” returned. It desolated all the province of Judea and capped the desolation by destroying both Jerusalem and its holy temple in a “great tribulation” that shocked Jews inside and outside the Roman Empire. The Christianized Jews in safe places of refuge outside Judea survived Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 C.E. Some Jewish “flesh” that had remained inside the rebellious city also survived, but only to be carried off captive by the Romans. So that generation of unchristianized Jews did not act on the “sign” that Jesus Christ had foretold. For that generation he had foretold wars, famines, pestilences, earthquakes, persecution of Christians, lawlessness, Kingdom preaching world wide, and the standing of the “disgusting thing” in the “holy place.” All these things had come upon that generation of Jews as a “sign” to them of the fast-approaching destruction of the Jewish system of things.—Matthew 24:3-22; Luke 21:10-23. THE CLIMAX OF THE MODERN-DAY “SIGN” IMMINENT 5. Why did God’s world government not follow Jerusalem’s ruin? 5 However, was Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 C.E. followed by God’s world government in the hands of Jesus Christ, the worthy Descendant of King David? No! The Roman Empire continued on as the Sixth World Power and kept increasing to attain its greatest dominion in the reign of Emperor Trajan. So the Gentile Times of 2,520 years of duration moved on toward their termination in 1914 C.E. History worked just as Jesus had foretold: “Jerusalem will be trampled on by the [Gentile] nations, until the appointed times of the nations are fulfilled.” (Luke 21:24) The Seventh Gentile World Power was yet to arise in the form of the Anglo-American Dual World Power, starting in 1763 C.E. It still functions, and the American member of that Dual World Power celebrated its two hundredth anniversary, its bicentennial, on July 4, 1976. That celebration was nearly sixty-two years after the Gentile Times ended in the year 1914. 6. What nations refuse to recognize God’s newborn kingdom? 6 Not only the United States of America and the British Commonwealth of Nations but all the other Gentile nations refuse to recognize God’s Messianic kingdom, the birth of which was repeatedly called to their attention.—Revelation 12:1-5. 7. How much longer will Christ put up with resistant nations? 7 The “presence” or parousia of the glorified Messiah Jesus in Kingdom authority is an accomplished fact since 1914! How much longer will Jehovah’s enthroned, crowned Messianic King put up with the combined resistance of earthly political governments now that their lease of world domination without God’s interference has expired? Not much longer, if we are to judge by the details of the foretold “sign of [Christ’s] presence [parousia] and of the conclusion of the system of things.”—Matthew 24:3. 8. To whom does the word “generation” in Matthew 24:34 apply? 8 Jesus Christ had our generation in mind as well as the Jewish generation of his day, when he said: “Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away.”—Matthew 24:34, 35. 9. What has “this generation” already seen fulfilled since 1914? 9 Well, then, what are we of “this generation” yet waiting for? We have seen, heard, and experienced the international wars, famines, pestilences, earthquakes, worldwide persecution of Jehovah’s Christian witnesses, increase of lawlessness, decrease of love of God by the majority, and the preaching of “this good news of the kingdom” by the Christian witnesses of Jehovah since 1914 C.E. We have gone through these things in fuller measure than did the Jewish “generation” of nineteen hundred years ago. We have witnessed the removal of the “constant feature” of Jehovah’s worship during World War I by the persecutions heaped upon Jehovah’s worshipers by the warring nations. We have also observed the “placing of the disgusting thing that is causing desolation” in the ‘setting up’ of a man-made substitute for God’s Messianic kingdom, namely, the League of Nations, in 1919, and its successor, the United Nations, in 1945. (Matthew 24:4-15; Daniel 12:11) So what is “this generation” shortly to expect? “KNOW THAT HE IS NEAR AT THE DOORS” 10-12. For “this generation” of today, what does Matthew 24:23-31 say? 10 With a swift skipping of intervening centuries of our Common Era, Jesus Christ passed from the “great tribulation” that resulted in Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 C.E. down to our critical period, “the time of the end.” (Daniel 12:4) He said: 11 “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look! Here is the Christ,’ or, ‘There!’ do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will give great signs and wonders so as to mislead, if possible, even the chosen ones. Look! I have forewarned you. Therefore, if people say to you, ‘Look! He is in the wilderness,’ do not go out; ‘Look! He is in the inner chambers,’ do not believe it. For just as the lightning comes out of eastern parts and shines over to western parts, so the presence [parousia] of the Son of man will be. Wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together. 12 “Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then the sign of the Son of man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will beat themselves in lamentation, and they will see the Son of man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send forth his angels with a great trumpet sound, and they will gather his chosen ones together from the four winds, from one extremity of the heavens to their other extremity.”—Matthew 24:23-31; Mark 13:21-27. 13. How do we know that the remnant of “chosen ones” are with us? 13 Like a “great trumpet sound” the message foretold in Matthew 24:14, “this good news of the kingdom,” has been increasingly sounded forth world wide since the year 1919 by the present-day remnant of “his chosen ones.” The more of these “chosen ones” that have been gathered from the four cardinal points (“the four winds”), the louder or more widespread has been the sound of the “good news” trumpet. For this reason we know that the “chosen ones” who are in line for a place in the heavenly kingdom are with us in this “time of the end.” We have not visibly seen any spirit angels gathering them together, but we do see the effect of such angelic activities according to the will of the glorified Son of man. By their preaching work publicly and from house to house, the remnant of gathered “chosen ones” have made themselves seen and heard. 14. Into what have the angels gathered the “chosen ones”? 14 No, they have not been gathered under angelic guidance into any one place in any one land. Rather, they have been gathered into a worldwide unity of thought and activity according to the unfolding Holy Scriptures, and they regularly meet together in their congregations, in homes or in Kingdom Halls. Even when banned by hostile worldly governments, they persist in gathering together, “underground,” so to speak, to build one another up in Christian faith and to organize their preaching efforts. At their annual celebration of the Lord’s Supper, the commemoration of Christ’s death on Nisan 14 (Bible calendar), they partake of the emblematic bread and wine. On April 14 (Nisan 14), of the year 1976, 10,187 of such “chosen ones” thus celebrated and partook of the emblems. 15. The gathered remnant now look for what “sign” to appear? 15 These faithful “chosen ones” are waiting for the “sign of the Son of man” in the heavens as he comes in the role of God’s Executioner to destroy all the nations who continue in opposition to his Messianic kingdom over all the earth. No wonder that, when he makes his presence felt by his destructive operations, it will be as if they actually saw him “coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” All good reason for them to “beat themselves in lamentation.”—Matthew 24:30; Revelation 1:7. THE POINT TO BE LEARNED NOW 16. What illustrates how we can know he is near at the doors? 16 We are, or at least we all should be, interested in knowing whether the grand climax of developments will come in our time. How can we know the possibility of this and be guided accordingly? For the guidance of us living today, Jesus as the Prophet concerning the “conclusion of the system of things” went on to say to his twelve apostles: “Now learn from the fig tree as an illustration this point: Just as soon as its young branch grows tender and it puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. Likewise also you, when you see all these things, know that he is near at the doors. Truly I say to you that this generation will by no means pass away until all these things occur. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away.”—Matthew 24:32-35; compare Luke 21:27-33. 17. We who saw these things start, do what and know what? 17 Those of the “chosen ones” alive today who witnessed the outbreak of World War I in 1914 can recall how we all rejoiced because we saw “these things start to occur.” We knew that the newly enthroned Christ was “near at the doors” for his executional work against this wicked “system of things.” We exulted because “the kingdom of God is near” for taking over full world control and functioning as a world government. We have not grown tired of being reminded over and over again during these past sixty years and more that the Messianic kingdom of God is “near at the doors.” This reminding of us has not grown stale and lost its potency and soul-stirring force toward us. We know that we are of the “generation” that saw the start of these things in 1914 at the close of the Gentile Times, and we believe Jesus’ assurance that this same “generation” of ours will see the finish of these significant things, all this culminating in the total take-over by the triumphant Kingdom of all human affairs. 18. Is our warning people just a scaring of them to do right? 18 A global catastrophe affecting far more people and institutions than the deluge of Noah’s day affected is about to break upon this “world of ungodly people.” (2 Peter 2:5) This needs to be—it deserves to be—drummed into the ears of the “chosen ones” and of all others who are interested in a perfect, righteous world government. This is not a case of frightening people with a false scare like that of the God-defaming doctrine of “eternal torment in a hell of literal fire and brimstone” in order to force their conversion and their attendance at some church. Not merely the life, but the eternal life, of the imperiled people is at stake, and, as God’s appointed ‘watchmen,’ we are under obligation to warn honest-hearted, righteously disposed persons. (Ezekiel 3:17-21; 33:6-20) We do not wish to come short of our responsibilities toward God. We are not frightening ourselves into doing our duty when we take this matter seriously. Our aim is to display love toward God and toward our fellow humans, especially our Christian brothers. 19, 20. Did Jesus want his warning to be wasted on his apostles? 19 Jesus Christ himself did not want to preach and prophesy to no purpose. He did not want his warning to be in vain for his disciples, when he said to them: “Concerning that day and hour nobody knows, neither the angels of the heavens nor the Son, but only the Father. For just as the days of Noah were, so the presence [parousia] of the Son of man will be. For as they were in those days before the flood, eating and drinking, men marrying and women being given in marriage, until the day [!] that Noah entered into the ark; and they took no note until the flood came and swept them all away, so the presence of the Son of man will be. Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken along and the other be abandoned; two women will be grinding at the hand mill: one will be taken along and the other be abandoned. Keep on the watch, therefore, because you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. 20 “But know one thing, that if the householder had known in what watch the thief was coming, he would have kept awake and not allowed his house to be broken into. On this account you too prove yourselves ready, because at an hour that you do not think to be it, the Son of man is coming.”—Matthew 24:36-44. 21. What questions and argument does Jesus’ illustration raise? 21 Does Jesus’ illustration of the householder mean that, if he let us disciples of today know in advance the day and the hour of his coming for the settling of accounts, he would make sure of finding us all awake and on the watch? Hence ought we not to be given prior notice of the exact day and hour? That would be the way we do things today: give our receptionists advance notice in order that they may not be taken by surprise but have all things ready and not be embarrassed. 22. Why does Jesus not give advance time notice of his coming? 22 It is different with Jesus Christ, for his disciples are really his purchased slaves. At all times he desires them to be interested in his coming for judgment proceedings and so be serviceable at all times, out of love for him. He does not want them to be hypocritical eye-pleasers, putting on at the last minute before his arrival a show of being always active in his service. By not being notified ahead of time just exactly when he will arrive, the disciples have their love and obedience toward him tested constantly. Are they sincerely interested in his kingdom and are they always preparing for a share in that world government? Or, do they take time out to meddle in worldly affairs, say, in worldly politics? The King Jesus Christ detests lukewarm service, halfhearted attention. He wants no hypocrites in his kingdom. 23, 24. By what illustrations did Jesus emphasize the above point? 23 This vital point is emphasized by Jesus Christ in the illustrations of the “faithful and discreet slave” and “that evil slave,” the illustrations that he gave right after urging his disciples to ‘prove themselves ready’ at all times. (Matthew 24:45-51) There is a grand reward reserved for Christ’s disciples who prove themselves to be faithful, discreet and loving slaves of his, uncompromisingly devoted to his handling of the promised world government. We are serving him not just for the sake of a reward. Nevertheless, he promises a grand reward out of his appreciation. Do we desire such a reward? It is the alternative of a punishment for unfaithfulness. (Luke 12:35-46) Out of love for Jehovah’s anointed King we want the reward of faithfulness, do we not? Our answer being Yes! then let us do what the King Jesus Christ tells us: 24 “What I say to you I say to all, Keep on the watch.”—Mark 13:32-37; Luke 21:36. 25. So, on what should we now keep our eyes fixed, and why? 25 Let all of us watchers keep our eyes fixed on the “sign” that has been readable since 1914 C.E. (Matthew 24:3) May it stimulate us ever to keep alert, for the Messianic world government is imminent!
Sing Praises (ssb) 1984	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb	Song 124 The Fruit of Self-Control (Galatians 5:23) 1. O Christian, safeguard well your soul; Be strong for truth and right. Keep exercising self-control That you may win the fight. 2. Just as we strive to show true love And wisdom ev’ry day, So we must be like God above And self-control display. 3. The body we must keep our slave; We dare not yield to lust. If we would self and others save, Control ourselves we must. 4. We must be calm when being tried And when we’re under stress; Stand firmly on Jehovah’s side, And cleave to righteousness.
YOUNG PEOPLE ASK Why Reject the Media Stereotype?—Part 1: For Girls	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502014290	YOUNG PEOPLE ASK Why Reject the Media Stereotype?—Part 1: For Girls What is the media stereotype? What you should know What you can do What your peers say What is the media stereotype? Look at these words, and then answer the questions that follow. Column 1 Column 2 Immature Responsible Rebellious Law-abiding Immoral Virtuous Shallow Intelligent Gossipy Discreet Deceitful Honest Which words describe teenage girls as you usually see them depicted in the movies, on TV, or in magazines? Which words describe how you would like to be known? Likely, your answers to the first question came from column 1 and your answers to the second question came from column 2. If so, that means you aspire to be better than the “typical” teenager portrayed by the media—and you’re not alone! Consider why. “Movies portray the typical teenage girl as a rebel with an attitude problem. It makes it seem as if all of us are untrustworthy, image-focused drama queens.”—Erin. “The teenage girls in movies and on TV are attention-hungry and obsessed with their looks, clothes, popularity, and boys.”—Natalie. “Rarely do you see the ‘fun’ girl not drinking, not sleeping with guys, and not rebelling against her parents. When a girl isn’t shown doing those things, she’s depicted as either a religious fanatic or some kind of prude.”—Maria. Ask yourself: ‘Does the way I dress, act, and speak really reflect who I am, or am I merely mimicking the stereotype I see depicted in the media?’ What you should know Many who think they’re carving out their own identity are merely conforming to an identity that’s been handed to them. “I see it in my little sister,” says a young woman named Karen. “She pretends not to care about anything but clothes and boys. She’s smart, and I know that she has other interests, but she plays dumb because she thinks that’s the only way she can be like ‘all the other girls.’ And she’s only 12!” The Bible says: “Stop being molded by this system of things.”—Romans 12:2. The stereotype does not reflect what all teenage girls want to be. “In the media, girls are shown as self-obsessed, ditzy, and prone to do immature things, but I think most of us have fairly good judgment,” says 15-year-old Alexis. “We have other things in our lives besides daydreaming about some cute guy.” The Bible says: “Mature people . . . have their powers of discernment trained to distinguish both right and wrong.”—Hebrews 5:14. Stereotyping serves the interests of marketers—not those of teen girls. Recognizing the potential for profit, powerful industries—including publishing, fashion, technology, and entertainment—start targeting young people before they reach their teens. “Advertisers suggest tweens who don’t have the latest clothes, jewelry, makeup, and electronic products won’t be popular,” says the book 12 Going on 29. “Tweens see seductive commercials on a constant basis, even before they understand what the seduction is about.” 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 Father, but originates with the world.”—1 John 2:16. To think about: Who benefits most if you think way too much about the most popular designer labels in fashion? Who really profits if you must have that latest cell phone just to be popular among your peers? What do marketers care more about—your well-being or their own? What you can do Learn to question the stereotype you see promoted by the media. As you grow up, you acquire the ability to see more than what appears to the eye. Use your perception to think about the effect that media stereotypes can have on you. “The media portrays a typical teenage girl as one who has more makeup on than clothes,” says 14-year-old Alana, “and many teens don’t realize that it doesn’t really make them look better—it makes them look desperate.” Develop your goals as to the type of person you want to become. For example, think back to the qualities you identified at the beginning of this article—the qualities for which you would like to be known. Why not start working now either to acquire them or to improve in them? The Bible says: “Clothe yourselves with the new personality, which through accurate knowledge is being made new according to the image of the One who created it”—not according to the image promoted by advertisers.—Colossians 3:10. Find positive role models. Some might be in your family, such as your mother or your aunt. Others could be mature female friends or acquaintances. Jehovah’s Witnesses have the benefit of many exemplary women in the Christian congregation.—Titus 2:3-5. Suggestion: Use the book Imitate Their Faith to learn about Bible examples of excellent role models for women, including Ruth, Hannah, Abigail, Esther, Mary, and Martha. Imitate Their Faith is published by Jehovah’s Witnesses and is available at www.jw.org. WHAT YOUR PEERS SAY “A real woman knows who she is, and she is comfortable in her skin. She carries herself with dignity. In other words, a real woman knows her worth.”—Hadassa. “A mature young woman has self-respect. She is someone who can be in a crowd but not demand all the attention. And if the attention does focus on her, she doesn’t let it go to her head.”—Marissa. Did you know? In the United States, the word “teenager” became popular in the 1940’s when marketers began grouping people according to their buying characteristics. Teenagers “were largely in the same place—high school—sharing a common experience, and they were young and open to new things,” says the book The Rise and Fall of the American Teenager. “They were, in short, easy to sell to.” The English word “tween,” which describes boys and girls between the ages of 10 and 13, recently came into vogue in marketing circles. “There had been no such thing as a ‘tween identity’ until marketers made it up,” says the book Talk to Me First. “Once someone dreamed up the catchy and memorable moniker ‘tweens’ . . . , a brand-new marketing niche was born.”
Man’s Salvation (sl) 1975	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/sl	Chapter 17 The Creating of “New Heavens and a New Earth” 1. (a) Why are we today interested in a dream had by Emperor Nebuchadnezzar of ancient Babylon? (b) In reminding the emperor of the details of the dream, what did Daniel say about a particular “stone” and what it would accomplish? WHAT the imperial ruler of the Babylonian World Power saw in a prophetic dream more than two thousand five hundred years ago, we are seeing fulfilled today! That God-sent dream helps us to understand what is taking place in our time of deepening world distress. Thankful can we be that this dream, which Emperor Nebuchadnezzar completely forgot beyond recall, was revealed to the prophet Daniel for him to recall and interpret with Almighty God’s help to the much-disturbed emperor. In reaching the climax of his account of the dream “image” that pictured the succession of political superpowers of world history, from the Babylonian Empire to the Anglo-American Dual World Power of today, Daniel went on to say: “You kept on looking until a stone was cut out not by hands, and it struck the image on its feet of iron and of molded clay and crushed them. At that time the iron, the molded clay, the copper, the silver and the gold were, all together, crushed and became like the chaff from the summer threshing floor, and the wind carried them away so that no trace at all was found of them. And as for the stone that struck the image, it became a large mountain and filled the whole earth.”—Daniel 2:34, 35. 2. What was symbolized by that “stone”? 2 There can be no other explanation of the matter. That “stone” symbolized the Messianic kingdom in the hands of the anointed Son of the Sovereign Lord of the universe, Jehovah God. 3. Explain the connections of this Messianic kingdom with King David, also how the kingdom took on a spiritual aspect. 3 This Messianic kingdom had its roots in the earthly kingdom of David, whom Jehovah caused to be anointed as king over the nation of Israel. The seat of his government came to be, finally, Jerusalem or Zion. With him Jehovah God made a covenant for the Messianic kingdom to continue in his family line and to become an everlasting kingdom. In due time this kingdom took on the aspect of a spiritual kingdom when David’s Permanent Heir arrived on the earthly scene. This was because the heavenly Son of God was miraculously born as Jesus into the royal line of David. By taking on this natural connection, he became the natural heir of the input to the throne of King David. (Matthew 1:1 through 2:6) In harmony with this, immediately after Jesus was baptized in water at the age of thirty years, Jehovah God anointed him with holy spirit to be future King over Israel, “the house of Jacob.” God also begot him to be a spiritual Son of God and acknowledged him as such.—Matthew 3:13-17; Luke 1:32, 33; 3:21-23; Acts 10:38. 4. How did the Permanent Heir of David actually become a king in the spirit realm? 4 Jesus Christ died as a martyr for preaching the kingdom of God, “the kingdom of the heavens.” He died in the flesh, as a perfect human sacrifice; but, says the apostle Peter, “Christ died once for all time concerning sins, a righteous person for unrighteous ones, that he might lead you to God, he being put to death in the flesh, but being made alive in the spirit.” (1 Peter 3:18) Israel, “the house of Jacob,” was therefore to have a heavenly king over it, an invisible spirit king, namely, the resurrected Jesus Christ, immortal in the heavens. (Romans 1:3, 4) Thus the resurrected Jesus Christ is the Permanent Heir or Kingly Heir of David, and his kingdom is an everlasting one. This Messianic kingdom is the one that is cut out of the “mountain” of Jehovah’s sovereignty without help of human hands. 5. (a) When was the symbolic “stone” cut out of the mountain? (b) When the “stone” was cut out and sent on its way against the symbolic “image,” what time period began for this wicked earthly system of things? 5 When was this royal “stone” cut out and sent on its way against the symbolic “image” of earthly world powers? It was “cut out” at the end of the Gentile Times about October 4/5, 1914, when Jehovah, the King-Maker, installed the resurrected Jesus Christ as empowered King in the heavens. (Luke 21:24; Psalm 2:1-6; Revelation 11:15; 12:5-10) Then it was that the prophetic words of Psalm 110:2 applied to the installed Jesus Christ: “The rod of your strength Jehovah will send out of Zion, saying: ‘Go subduing in the midst of your enemies.’” For that reason the “time of the end” began for this wicked earthly system of things. (Daniel 12:4) Correspondingly, the things foretold by Jesus Christ to happen during the “conclusion of the system of things” have been taking place since the end of the Gentile Times in 1914.—Matthew 24:3 through 25:33. 6. (a) What is significant about the fact that the stone strikes the image “on its feet of iron and of molded clay”? (b) When does this stone strike the symbolic “image”? 6 The fact that, in the king’s dream, the stone strikes the manlike image “on its feet of iron and of molded clay” is significant. It shows that the Messianic kingdom of God strikes the real world-power “image” in the days of the Seventh World Power, the Anglo-American Dual World Power, in the final days thereof. This is the time when human rulerships of this world are divided between the imperial ironlike governments and the radical claylike governments. The two kinds do not mix. The symbolic “image” is not struck at the beginning of the now imminent “great tribulation,” at the time when religious Babylon the Great is destroyed. Rather, it is struck thereafter in the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon. (Matthew 24:21, 22; Revelation 7:14; 16:14, 16; 17:1-18; 18:20—19:3 through 19:3) It is then that the worldly nations, no longer under the religious influence of Babylon the Great, stand unitedly in outright, declared opposition to the Universal Sovereignty of Jehovah God and his Messianic kingdom. 7. In Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, is the “stone” shown as striking and crushing rulers in the spirit realm? 7 Nebuchadnezzar’s prophetic dream does not show the “stone” or the Messianic kingdom as striking against political enemies in the invisible spirit heavens, such as the spirit “prince of the royal realm of Persia” and the spirit “prince of Greece.” (Daniel 10:13, 20) The royal “stone” strikes at something earthly, visible, human, namely, the political governments of this world, whether imperial, democratic, radical, socialistic or communistic. 8. Similarly, in Revelation chapters 17 and 19, against whom and what is the royal “stone” shown as fighting? 8 So, too, Revelation 17:12-14 reveals the royal Messianic “stone” as fighting against the militarized representatives of the Eighth World Power, the United Nations, then rid of any domination by Babylon the Great: “These will battle with the Lamb, but, because he is Lord of lords and King of kings, the Lamb will conquer them.” Likewise, the detailed account of the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon as given in Revelation 19:11-21 reveals that the royal Messianic “stone” moves in warfare, not against spirit forces in the invisible heavens, but against the worldwide political system on earth, with all its human rulers and their armies, and henchmen. 9. How will all this warfare affect the inhabited earth? 9 This warfare results in the worst time of distress that the inhabited earth ever experiences. In foretelling this, Daniel 12:1 says: “And during that time [of the end] Michael will stand up, the great prince who is standing in behalf of the sons of your people [Daniel’s people, Israel]. And there will certainly occur a time of distress such as has not been made to occur since there came to be a nation until that time.” 10. (a) At the climax of the “day of Jehovah,” what will happen to the symbolic “image”? (b) When is it that Satan and his demons are to be chained and hurled into the abyss? 10 Then it is that the final part of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream is fulfilled, that the “stone . . . crushed the iron, the copper, the molded clay, the silver and the gold.” These substances were, “all together, crushed and became like the chaff from the summer threshing floor, and the wind carried them away so that no trace at all was found of them.” (Daniel 2:45, 35) That is the climax of the “day of judgment and of destruction of the ungodly men.” That day is the “day of Jehovah, through which the heavens being on fire will be dissolved and the elements being intensely hot will melt!” Also, the “earth and the works in it will be discovered [as combustible].” (2 Peter 3:7, 10, 12) It is first after this “destruction of the ungodly men,” according to the book of Revelation, that Satan the Devil and his demon angels are chained and hurled into the abyss for a thousand years. This binding and abyssing of them is pictured as occurring after and separate from the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon.—Revelation 19:11 through 20:3. 11. How do the Scriptures show who have been the invisible power behind the governmental “heavens” among men? 11 It is true that Satan the Devil has been what Jesus Christ called him, “the ruler of this world.” (John 14:30; 16:11) Besides that, the apostle Paul referred to Satan the Devil as “the god of this system of things” and as “the ruler of the authority of the air.” (2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:2) Paul also said that Christians have a wrestling match with the “wicked spirit forces in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12) Undeniably they have been the controllers and the invisible power behind those governmental “heavens” among men.—Revelation 13:1, 2; Luke 4:5-7. 12. (a) Does the description found at 2 Peter 3:10-12 match what happens to Satan and his demons when they are hurled into the abyss? (b) What does their being bound and abyssed mean? 12 Nevertheless, it remains true that Satan and his demon angels do not suffer the dissolution that is described in 2 Peter 3:10-12. They are not destroyed in the “great day of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon. Thereafter they are simply put out of the way in a deactivated state, in the abyss, out of reach of the earth. The binding and abyssing of these wicked spirit forces are not described as a fight or war, in the way that the ousting of Satan and his demon angels from heaven is described.—Revelation 12:7-13. “NEW HEAVENS AND A NEW EARTH” AWAITED 13. To what is it that Jehovah’s Christian witnesses are now looking forward with eager anticipation? 13 Jehovah’s Christian witnesses are now doing more than “keeping close in mind the presence of the day of Jehovah” during which the symbolic “heavens,” “elements,” and “earth and the works in it” are dissolved, destroyed. They are looking forward eagerly in faith to what immediately follows this “day” of the dissolution of this system of things and the abyssing of Satan and his demon angels. They say with the apostle Peter: “But there are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell.”—2 Peter 3:13. 14. How does the fulfillment of that promise recorded by Peter fit in with the fulfillment of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream? 14 The coming in of the “new heavens and a new earth” is where the fulfillment of the final part of Nebuchadnezzar’s prophetic dream occurs, namely: “And as for the stone that struck the image, it became a large mountain and filled the whole earth.” (Daniel 2:35) In this way the heavenly Messianic kingdom is pictured as a mountain on the earth, ‘filling the whole earth.’ 15, 16. In what way are the new heavens and a new earth “according to his promise,” that is, Jehovah’s promise? 15 The apostle Peter says that the awaited “new heavens and a new earth” are “according to his promise,” the promise of Jehovah, to whom Peter made reference in the preceding verse. A divine promise of this kind, in which the expression used by Peter is specifically found, is located in Isaiah 65:17, 18 and Isa 66:22. There it is written under divine inspiration: 16 “For here I am creating new heavens and a new earth; and the former things will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart. But exult, you people, and be joyful forever in what I am creating. For here I am creating Jerusalem a cause for joyfulness and her people a cause for exultation.” “‘For just as the new heavens and the new earth that I am making are standing before me,’ is the utterance of Jehovah, ‘so the offspring of you people and the name of you people will keep standing.’” 17. Where and when did that prophecy of Isaiah have a small-scale fulfillment? 17 This prophecy of Isaiah, written about 732 B.C.E., although applied by the apostle Peter to the future, had a small-scale or miniature fulfillment a couple of centuries after Isaiah’s prophecy. This was when the seventy years of desolation and sabbathkeeping of the land of Judah and of Jerusalem came to an end and a faithful remnant of exiled Jews returned from Babylon to their God-given homeland in 537 B.C.E. Jerusalem was rebuilt and its temple was reconstructed by the year 515 B.C.E., on the third day of the month Adar. (Ezra 6:13-22) In the year 455 B.C.E. the walls of Jerusalem were rebuilt under the governorship of Nehemiah, and this was the occasion of a joyful celebration. (Nehemiah 6:15) In course of time Jerusalem again became a world-renowned city.—Daniel 9:24, 25. 18. In that miniature fulfillment, what were the “new heavens”? 18 In this miniature fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, the “new heavens” were the new righteous government of Governor Zerubbabel and his successors. This government with its headquarters at the restored Jerusalem replaced the corrupted government of Kings Jehoiakim, Jehoiachin, and Zedekiah, which was overturned by the Babylonians in 607 B.C.E. Governor Zerubbabel was used as the type of the Greater Zerubbabel in the following prophecy of Haggai 2:23: “‘In that day,’ is the utterance of Jehovah of armies, ‘I shall take you, O Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, my servant,’ is the utterance of Jehovah; ‘and I shall certainly set you as a seal ring, because you are the one whom I have chosen,’ is the utterance of Jehovah of armies.” 19. (a) What was the “new earth” back then? (b) Was the prophecy fulfilled to its complete extent there in the reinhabited land of Judah? 19 Those typical “new heavens” that spread out as a government over the reinhabited land of Judah had a “new earth” beneath them. Such “new earth” was the cleansed, restored Jewish remnant that had left Babylon and that rebuilt Jerusalem and its holy temple through which to render pure Mosaic Law worship to Jehovah in harmony with His covenant. (Isaiah 66:8) Inasmuch as that ancient fulfillment of the prophecy was merely an illustrative, small-scale fulfillment, it was only to a limited extent that the prophecy concerning the living conditions under the “new heavens” and in the “new earth” was realized: “‘They will do no harm nor cause any ruin in all my holy mountain,’ Jehovah has said.” (Isaiah 65:19-25) The “new heavens” and the “new earth” in the larger-scale fulfillment of Isaiah 66:22 were the ones that were to remain standing before Jehovah God permanently. 20, 21. (a) What are the “new heavens” that we are awaiting according to God’s promise? (b) How does the Messianic kingdom become ‘a large mountain that fills the whole earth,’ as foretold by Daniel? 20 So, the “new heavens” that Jehovah’s Christian witnesses were long awaiting according to His promise are realized in the Messianic kingdom of God, in the hands of the Permanent Heir of King David. Since this kingdom is the royal “stone” that crushes all the earthly kings and their governments in the “war of the great day of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon, it leaves no human political rulership existent upon our earthly globe. Hence, that stonelike kingdom of the Messiah must become like a great mountain that fills and covers the whole earth. Does this mean that the Israelite kingdom of David will be reestablished by Christ right here on the earth? No! There will not be even an earthly manifestation of the kingdom of David on the surface of the earth. Jesus Christ, his Permanent Heir, will not reign in the flesh, visibly, in a city of Jerusalem over in the Middle East. 21 His seat of government will be the “city of the living God, heavenly Jerusalem.” (Hebrews 12:22; Revelation 14:1) His mountainlike government takes the place of all the human political governments that were the symbolic “heavens” of the old system of things. (Isaiah 34:3-5) Thus there will be a new governmental “heavens” that will actually be in the invisible, spirit heavens. 22, 23. (a) How will Jesus Christ eliminate the Satanic influence that has dominated the governmental “heavens” of this system of things? (b) Why is the promise of “new heavens” especially precious to those who are spirit-anointed Christians? (c) In Revelation 21:1-4, what are the “former heaven,” the “former earth” and the “sea,” to which reference is made, and what replaces them? 22 Satan the Devil has been the invisible “ruler” who has dominated those governmental “heavens” of this system of things on earth. The destructive “fire” of the “day of Jehovah” will dissolve, destroy, those governmental “heavens” and will leave Satan the Devil without such “heavens” over which he has dominated for millenniums. (Revelation 13:1, 2; 19:19-21) He will certainly not rule over the “new heavens.” His invisible position of rule over things earthly will be replaced by the invisible superhuman rule of David’s Permanent Heir, Jesus Christ, who, by resurrection from the dead, was made an immortal, incorruptible spirit vastly more powerful than Satan the Devil and all his demon angels. Satan and his angels are to be removed from their location in the neighborhood of the earth under restraint and are to be imprisoned in the abyss from which they can exercise no control over any “heavens” that dominate the earth. (Revelation 20:1-3) Since Jesus Christ is now a heavenly spirit King, his “new heavens” will be a heavens in a very literal sense. No other governmental heavens will exist. The apostle Peter and fellow anointed, spirit-begotten Christians could await with eager expectation the establishment of those promised “new heavens.” Why? Because they have the ‘precious and very grand promise’ from God that they will, if faithful to the death, form a part of those “new heavens” with Jesus Christ. They are heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:4; Romans 8:16, 17) The whole congregation of them will make up the queenly “bride” of the King Jesus Christ. Thus, more than eight centuries after God used Isaiah to prophesy about the “new heavens and a new earth,” God gave a further promise of such glorious things by the apostle John, who wrote: 23 “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the former heaven [the political governments along with Satan and his demon angels] and the former earth [ungodly human society] had passed away, and the sea [restless, agitated masses of mankind] is no more. I saw also the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God and prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: ‘Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.’ . . . He spoke with me and said: ‘Come here, I will show you the bride, the Lamb’s wife.’ So he carried me away in the power of the spirit to a great and lofty mountain, and he showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God.”—Revelation 21:1-4, 9, 10. A RIGHTEOUS “NEW EARTH” 24. What will the “great crowd” be in the “new earth,” and with what favorable circumstances will they set to work? 24 With eager anticipation, the “great crowd” of prospective survivors of the “great tribulation” are also awaiting the “new heavens and a new earth.” This “new earth” will be the new human society living under the “new heavens.” (Revelation 7:9-14) Just as Noah and his family survived the global deluge and formed the nucleus of the new human society on earth, so the “great crowd” will survive the approaching “great tribulation” and will form the permanent nucleus of the new human society, the symbolic “new earth.” They will start off in the spiritual paradise that survives the “great tribulation” with them, but they will then set themselves to the work of converting the literal earth into a paradise all around the globe. Animals, wild and domestic, will be at peace with them. 25. How will the situation then be far more favorable than was that of the restored Israelites when Isaiah’s prophecy had its miniature fulfillment? 25 The privilege of then living on the cleansed earth without pollution under the righteous “new heavens” will be one without compare, far surpassing what the restored Israelites experienced in the miniature fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy in the Persian province of Judah. Oh, just think of living on earth when the “former things” have passed away, when death will be no more, when mourning over dead ones will be no more, neither outcry nor pain of heart! 26. At that time, what will Jehovah do even on behalf of the dead? 26 Under the reign of the Eternal Father, Jesus Christ, and his Kingdom joint heirs, the members of the “great crowd” will be on their way to endless life in a global paradise of beauty, plenty, happiness and peace. There will be no need to mourn over dead loved ones, for by means of the “new heavens” Almighty God Jehovah will bring about a resurrection of the human dead for whom the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ avails. (John 11:25, 26; 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15; Revelation 20:11-14) These resurrected ones, including the men and women of faith from Abel to John the Baptist, will have the opportunity of becoming part of that “new earth.” 27. (a) How can we be sure that, despite the bleakness of world conditions, there will really be such a salvation of mankind? (b) What do we individually need to do now to prepare to benefit from that salvation? 27 It seems almost unbelievable that such a heart-consoling prospect should be immediately ahead of us of this generation. And yet it is! World conditions never looked blacker. World distress is deepening. Man’s helplessness becomes more and more evident. Relief from human sources becomes impossible. Still there will be a salvation of mankind out of earth’s distress at its worst. The human family will not die off. It will not be killed off. There will be those of the human family who will emerge from the world distress and pass into a righteous new order in which suchlike world distress will never rise again. We have Almighty God’s own word for that. Our now living with full faith in that divine word will prepare the way for us to be saved out of the world distress. That salvation is at hand!—Matthew 24:21, 22; Nahum 1:9.
Watching the World	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102014003	WATCHING THE WORLD Sub-Saharan Africa “Only 38 percent of children below the age of 5 have a birth certificate,” says a report on sub-Saharan Africa by UNICEF. Yet, in some areas of that part of the world, “birth registration is essential for children to access health care and education, as well as for orphans to inherit from their parents,” stated Elke Wisch, the UNICEF deputy regional director for eastern and southern Africa. Italy According to one survey, the most common fear of Italian adolescents is cyberbullying. Among 12- to 17-year-olds, 72 percent say they dread it. They make up a higher percentage than those who fear drugs (55 percent), being molested by an adult (44 percent), or contracting a sexually transmitted disease (24 percent). Japan As reported in The Japan Times, young Japanese adults increasingly pass up promotions in the workplace. Forty percent deplore the lack of ethics and the prevalence of dishonest practices. Many employees feel unable to discuss opinions or talk freely with superiors. Whereas older generations stuck with their employers, 60 percent of young employees now simply hold on to their job while waiting for something better to turn up. Brazil From 1980 to 2010, nearly 800,000 people were killed by firearms in Brazil. Over 450,000 victims were between 15 and 29 years of age. A study of more recent crimes shows that killings are often the result of domestic quarrels, conflicts with neighbors, jealousy, or arguments between drivers.
The Book of Revelation—What Does It Mean?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502014129	The Book of Revelation—What Does It Mean? The Bible’s answer The Greek name of the Bible book of Revelation, A·po·kaʹly·psis (apocalypse), means “Uncovering” or “Disclosure.” This name indicates the meaning of Revelation—it uncovers matters that had been hidden and discloses events that would happen long after it was written. Many of its prophecies are yet to be fulfilled. Overview of the book of Revelation Introduction.—Revelation 1:1-9. Messages from Jesus to the seven congregations.—Revelation 1:10–3:22. A vision of God on his throne in heaven.—Revelation 4:1-11. A series of visions, each one leading into the next: Seven seals.—Revelation 5:1–8:6. Seven trumpets, the last three of which introduce three woes.—Revelation 8:7–14:20. Seven bowls, each containing a plague representing a divine judgment to be poured out on the earth.—Revelation 15:1–16:21. Visions of the destruction of God’s enemies.—Revelation 17:1–20:10. Visions of blessings from God for heaven and earth.—Revelation 20:11–22:5. Conclusion.—Revelation 22:6-21. Keys to understanding the book of Revelation Its meaning is positive, not fearful or terrifying to those who serve God. While many associate the word “apocalypse” with great disaster, the book of Revelation begins and ends by saying that those who read, understand, and apply its message would be happy for doing so.—Revelation 1:3; 22:7. Revelation uses many “signs,” or symbols, that are not to be understood literally.—Revelation 1:1. Many major entities and symbols in the book of Revelation are introduced earlier in the Bible: Jehovah—“the true God in the heavens” and Creator of all things.—Deuteronomy 4:39; Psalm 103:19; Revelation 4:11; 15:3. Jesus Christ—“the Lamb of God.”—John 1:29; Revelation 5:6; 14:1. Satan the Devil—God’s adversary.—Genesis 3:14, 15; John 8:44; Revelation 12:9. Babylon the Great—like ancient Babylon (Babel), an enemy of Jehovah God and his people and a source of religious lies.—Genesis 11:2-9; Isaiah 13:1, 11; Revelation 17:4-6; 18:4, 20. “The sea”—wicked mankind opposed to God.—Isaiah 57:20; Revelation 13:1; 21:1. Features corresponding to the ancient tabernacle used for God’s worship—including the ark of the covenant, the glassy sea (basin for washing), lamps, offerings of incense, and an altar of sacrifice.—Exodus 25:10, 17, 18; 40:24-32; Revelation 4:5, 6; 5:8; 8:3; 11:19. Wild beasts—symbolizing human governments.—Daniel 7:1-8, 17-26; Revelation 13:2, 11; 17:3. Numbers used symbolically.—Revelation 1:20; 8:13; 13:18; 21:16. The visions apply to “the Lord’s day,” which began when God’s Kingdom was set up in 1914 and Jesus began ruling as King. (Revelation 1:10) We can therefore expect the main fulfillment of Revelation to be in our time. To understand the book of Revelation, we need the same things that help us to understand the rest of the Bible, including wisdom from God and assistance from those who already understand it.—Acts 8:26-39; James 1:5.
School Guidebook (sg) 1992	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/sg	Study 37 Poise and Personal Appearance 1-9. Define poise and confidence, and tell how these can be attained. 1 A poised speaker is a relaxed speaker. He is calm and composed because he has the situation under control. Lack of poise, on the other hand, shows a certain lack of confidence. The two go together. That is why “Confidence and poise” is listed as just one point on the Speech Counsel slip. 2 While confidence and poise are desirable on the part of a speaker, they are not to be confused with overconfidence, which is manifested by swaggering or strutting or slouching in an overly relaxed manner if seated or too casually leaning against a doorpost if preaching from house to house. If something in your presentation suggests an overconfident attitude, your school overseer will no doubt give you private counsel, because his interest will be to help you overcome any such impression you may be giving that might impede the effectiveness of your ministry. 3 However, if you are a new speaker, it is more likely that you will feel timid and shy as you approach the platform. You may have a real nervousness and uneasiness that could cause you to believe you will give an ineffective presentation. This need not be so. Confidence and poise can be acquired by diligent effort and a knowledge of why they are lacking. 4 Why do some speakers lack confidence? Generally for one, or both, of two reasons. First, lack of preparation or wrong view of their material. Second, a negative attitude toward their qualifications as speakers. 5 What will give you confidence? Basically, it is the knowledge or belief that you will be able to accomplish your purpose. It is the assurance that you do have the situation in hand and can control it. On the platform this might require some experience. Having given a number of talks, you can be reasonably sure that this one also will be successful. But even if you are relatively new, your earlier talks should encourage you, so you should soon be able to manifest this quality to a reasonable degree. 6 Another vital requirement for confidence, whether you are experienced or not, is a knowledge of your material and conviction that this material is worth while. That means not only thorough advance preparation of your subject but also careful preparation for delivery. If you realize that it is for your own theocratic advancement as well as for the instruction of the brothers in attendance, you will approach the platform in a prayerful attitude. You will become absorbed in the subject and you will forget yourself and your nervousness. You will be thinking of pleasing God, not men.—Gal. 1:10; Ex. 4:10-12; Jer. 1:8. 7 This means you must be convinced of everything you are going to say. Make certain in your preparation that this is so. And after you have done all that you can to prepare an interesting and lively talk, if you still feel that the talk lacks color or is dead, remember that a live audience will warm up your talk. So make your audience alive by your own presentation, and their interest will give you confidence in what you have to present. 8 Just as a doctor looks for symptoms of illness, so your counselor will notice signs that point unmistakably to lack of composure. And just as the good doctor will work on the cause of your illness rather than the symptoms, so your counselor will endeavor to help you overcome the real causes of lack of confidence and poise. However, knowing the symptoms and learning to control them will actually help you to overcome the underlying causes of those symptoms. What are they? 9 Generally speaking, there are two outlets for pent-up emotions or tenseness. They can be classified as physical or bodily evidences and vocal manifestations. When these are displayed to any degree, we say that person lacks poise. 10, 11. How can physical bearing expose a lack of confidence? 10 Poise manifest in physical bearing. The first evidence of poise, then, is manifest in your physical bearing. Here are some things that will betray you if you lack confidence. Consider first the hands: hands clasped behind the back, held rigidly at the side or tightly clutching the speakers’ stand; hands repeatedly in and out of pockets, buttoning and unbuttoning a coat, aimlessly moving to the cheek, the nose, the eyeglasses; incompleted gestures; toying with a watch, a pencil, a ring or notes. Or consider a constant shuffling of the feet, a swaying of the body from side to side; back like a ramrod or sagging of the knees; frequent moistening of the lips, repeated swallowing, rapid and shallow breathing. 11 All these evidences of nervousness can be controlled or minimized by conscious effort. If you make that effort you will give an impression of poise in your physical bearing. So breathe naturally and evenly, and make a definite effort to relax. Pause before you begin speaking. Your audience is bound to react favorably, and this, in turn, will help you to gain the confidence you are seeking. Concentrate on your material, not being concerned about the audience or thinking about yourself. 12-14. If one’s voice betrays lack of confidence, what can be done to acquire poise? 12 Poise shown by controlled voice. Vocal evidences displaying nervousness are an abnormally high pitch, a trembling of the voice, repeated clearing of the throat, an unusual thinness of the tone caused by lack of resonance due to tenseness. These problems and mannerisms also can be conquered by diligent effort. 13 Do not hurry while walking to the platform or arranging your notes, but be relaxed and happy to share the things you have prepared. If you know you are nervous when you begin to talk, then you must make a special effort to talk slower in the introduction than usual and with a lower pitch than you might feel is normal for you. This will help you to control your nervousness. You will find that both gesturing and pausing will help you to relax. 14 But do not wait until you go on the platform to practice all these things. Learn to be poised and controlled in your daily speech. It will go far toward giving you confidence on the platform and in your field ministry, where it is most essential. A calm delivery will put your audience at ease so they will be able to concentrate on the material. Commenting regularly at meetings will help you to become accustomed to speaking before a group. ********** 15. Why is good personal appearance so important? 15 Good personal appearance can aid you to have poise, but it is also important for other reasons. If it is not given adequate attention, the minister may find that his appearance distracts his audience so that they really do not pay attention to what he is saying. Rather, he is focusing attention on himself, which, of course, he does not want to do. If a person is extremely careless about his personal appearance, he may even cause others to look down on the organization of which he is a part and to reject the message that he is presenting. This should not be. So, while “Personal appearance” is listed last on the Speech Counsel form, it should not be viewed as of least importance. 16-21. What counsel is given on proper attire and grooming? 16 Proper attire and grooming. Extremes in attire should be avoided. The Christian minister will not follow the fads of the world that draw attention to oneself. He will avoid being overdressed, or dressing in too flashy a manner so that attention is directed to the clothing. Also, he will exercise care so as not to be dressed in a slovenly way. Being well dressed does not require that one wear a new suit, but one can always be neat and clean. Trousers should be pressed and the necktie worn straight. These are things that anyone can do. 17 The counsel concerning attire that the apostle Paul recorded, as found in 1 Timothy 2:9, is appropriate for Christian women today. As is true of the brothers, they should not dress in such a way as to draw attention to themselves, nor would it be appropriate for them to go in for extremes in worldly styles of dress that give evidence of lack of modesty. 18 Of course, it should be kept in mind that not all persons will dress alike. They should not be expected to. People have different tastes, and this is quite proper. What is considered proper dress also varies in different parts of the world, but it is always good to avoid dressing in such a way as to convey unfavorable suggestions to the minds of those in the audience and to avoid stumbling those who come to our meetings. 19 As for proper dress on the part of the brothers when giving talks in the school or on the service meeting, it might be said that they should be attired in the same general way as the brother who delivers a public talk. If it is customary in your locality for those who deliver the public talks to wear a necktie and suit coat, then that is also proper attire when giving talks in the Theocratic Ministry School, since you are being trained for public speaking. 20 Proper grooming also should receive attention. Uncombed hair can leave a bad impression. Reasonable care should be exercised to see that one presents a neat appearance in this regard. Likewise, when men in the congregation have assignments on the meetings, they should see that they are properly shaved. 21 As to counsel on this matter of proper attire and grooming, where there is room for commendation this may always be properly given from the platform. In fact, when commendation is given to those who give proper attention to their attire and grooming, this encourages others to follow that good example. However, when there is need for improvement in regard to attire and grooming, it might be better for the school overseer to offer these suggestions in a kindly way in private, rather than counseling the student from the platform. 22-28. Discuss how posture can affect one’s personal appearance. 22 Proper posture. Proper posture is also involved in personal appearance. Again, not everyone carries himself in the same way, and no endeavor should be made to make the brothers conform to a certain rigid pattern. However, extremes that are undesirable and that draw attention to the individual and away from the message should receive some attention so that they can be corrected or eliminated. 23 For example, not everyone places his feet just the same, and generally speaking, it makes little difference how you do stand, as long as you are standing erect. But if a speaker stands with his feet so far apart that it gives the audience the impression that he thinks he is on a horse, that can be very distracting. 24 So, too, when a speaker is slumped over, not standing erect, it elicits a feeling of pity on the part of the audience toward the speaker because he does not appear to be well, and this, of course, detracts from the presentation. Their thoughts are not on what he is saying but on him. 25 Standing on one foot, with the other leg wound around behind it, gives evidence of obvious lack of poise, as does standing with one’s hands shoved into one’s pockets. These are things to be avoided. 26 Likewise, while it is not wrong for a speaker occasionally to rest his hands on the speakers’ stand, if there is one, he certainly should not lean on the speakers’ stand, any more than a publisher in the field ministry would lean against the doorframe. It does not present a good appearance. 27 It must be reemphasized, however, that individuals are different. Not everyone stands the same way, and it is only undesirable extremes that detract from one’s presentation that should receive attention in the Theocratic Ministry School. 28 Correcting one’s posture is definitely a matter of preparation. If you have a need to improve along this line, you must think ahead and know that when you mount the platform you should assume the proper posture before you begin speaking. This is also something that can be corrected by practicing proper posture every day. 29-31. Why should our equipment be neat? 29 Neat equipment. If, when one is conversing at the door or giving a talk from the platform, some papers fall out of the Bible one is using, this obviously is distracting. It gives a bad appearance. This does not mean that nothing should ever be put in the Bible, but when difficulties begin to arise that detract from one’s talk, then it indicates that more attention must be given to proper appearance. It is good also to examine the appearance of your Bible. Due to much use it can become soiled or worn out and look unkempt. So it would be good to determine if the Bible used on the platform or in the field ministry would offend the ones we are desiring to assist. 30 The same is true of one’s literature case. There are many ways in which a literature case can be packed neatly, but if, when we go to the door and reach for a publication in our case, we have to feel through a mass of papers in order to find it, or if, when we pull out a magazine, other things fall out on the doorstep, something definitely needs to be done about it. 31 It can also be quite distracting to the audience if the speaker has his outside pockets loaded with pens and pencils and other equipment that are clearly in evidence. No rule should be made as to where a person keeps these things, but when they begin to draw attention to themselves and away from the talk, then some adjustment needs to be made. 32-34. What part do facial expressions play in our appearance? 32 No inappropriate facial expression. When preparing a talk it is advisable to consider the mood that the material calls for. For example, when speaking about death and destruction, it would be inappropriate to have a broad smile on one’s face. Likewise, when speaking about the happy conditions of the new system of things, it would hardly be fitting to scowl at the audience. 33 Facial expression generally is not a problem, and, of course, some persons are more inclined to be serious in expression than others. What is to be guarded against, however, is the extreme that detracts from the talk. If the facial expression would raise a question in the minds of the audience as to the sincerity of the speaker, this definitely would be undesirable. 34 So it is good when preparing a discourse to consider the mood in which it should be delivered. If it is a serious subject, dealing with the destruction of the wicked, then it should be delivered in a serious way. And if you are thinking of the material and keep it in mind, your facial expression in most cases will naturally reflect that. If it is a happy subject, one that should elicit joy on the part of the audience, then it should be delivered in a happy way. And if you feel at ease on the platform, your facial expression will usually radiate that joy.
Greatest Man (gt) 1991	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt	Chapter 99 Jesus Teaches at Jericho SOON Jesus and the crowds traveling with him arrive at Jericho, which is a city about a day’s journey from Jerusalem. Apparently Jericho is a double city, the old Jewish city being about a mile [kilometer and a half] from the newer Roman city. As the crowds make their way out of the old city and approach the new one, two blind beggars hear the commotion. One of them is named Bartimaeus. On learning that it is Jesus who is passing by, Bartimaeus and his companion begin shouting: “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” When the crowd sternly tells them to be quiet, they cry out even more and with louder voices: “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” Hearing the disturbance, Jesus stops. He asks those with him to call the ones doing all the shouting. These go to the blind beggars and say to one of them: “Take courage, get up, he is calling you.” With unbounded excitement, the blind man throws off his outer garment, leaps to his feet, and goes to Jesus. “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asks. “Lord, let our eyes be opened,” the two blind men plead. Moved with pity, Jesus touches their eyes. According to Mark’s account, Jesus says to one of them: “Go, your faith has made you well.” Immediately the blind beggars receive sight, and doubtless both of them begin glorifying God. When all the people see what has happened, they also give praise to God. Without delay, Bartimaeus and his companion begin to follow Jesus. As Jesus passes through Jericho, the crowds are tremendous. Everyone wants to see the one who has healed the blind men. The people press in upon Jesus from every direction, and as a result, some cannot even get a glimpse of him. Among these is Zacchaeus, chief over the tax collectors in and around Jericho. He is too short to see what is going on. So Zacchaeus runs ahead and climbs a fig-mulberry tree along the route that Jesus is taking. From this vantage point, he can get a good view of everything. As the crowds approach, Jesus calls up into the tree: “Zacchaeus, hurry and get down, for today I must stay in your house.” Zacchaeus climbs down with rejoicing and hurries home to get things prepared for his distinguished visitor. However, when people see what is happening, they all begin grumbling. They consider it improper for Jesus to be the guest of such a man. You see, Zacchaeus became rich by dishonestly extorting money in his tax-collecting business. Many people follow, and when Jesus enters into the home of Zacchaeus, they complain: “With a man that is a sinner he went in to lodge.” Yet Jesus sees in Zacchaeus the potential for repentance. And Jesus is not disappointed, for Zacchaeus stands up and announces: “Look! The half of my belongings, Lord, I am giving to the poor, and whatever I extorted from anyone by false accusation I am restoring fourfold.” Zacchaeus proves that his repentance is genuine by giving half of his belongings to the poor and by using the other half to pay back those he cheated. Apparently he can calculate from his tax records just how much he owes these persons. So he vows to make a fourfold restoration, in keeping with God’s law that says: ‘In case a man should steal a sheep, he is to compensate with four of the flock for the sheep.’ Jesus is pleased with the way that Zacchaeus promises to dispense his belongings, for He says: “This day salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man came to seek and to save what was lost.” Recently, Jesus had illustrated the situation of ‘the lost’ with his story about the prodigal son. Now we have a real-life example of a lost one who has been found. Even though the religious leaders and those who follow them mutter and complain about Jesus’ attention to persons like Zacchaeus, Jesus continues to look for and restore these lost sons of Abraham. Matthew 20:29-34; Mark 10:46-52; Luke 18:35–19:10; Exodus 22:1. ▪ Where, apparently, does Jesus meet the blind beggars, and what does he do for them? ▪ Who is Zacchaeus, and why does he climb a tree? ▪ How does Zacchaeus prove his repentance? ▪ What lesson can we learn from Jesus’ treatment of Zacchaeus?
Worldwide Security (ws) 1986	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/ws	Chapter 21 The Garden of Eden Restored—Earth Wide 1. (a) In what sense will the garden of Eden be restored, and why will it not cover only a limited area of the globe? (b) What do Jesus’ words to the evildoer indicate? THE GARDEN of Eden was “a paradise of pleasure,” and in that sense it will be restored. (Genesis 2:8, Douay Version) The original Paradise covered a limited area of the globe. But Jehovah purposed that its borders were to be extended outward, all around, by the growing human family until Paradise enveloped the entire earth and enrobed it with exquisite natural beauty. (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:8, 9, 15) Jesus’ words to the sympathetic evildoer who died alongside him at Calvary assured the man that he would be resurrected when the restoration of Paradise is well along, and he will then notice the delightful change in the earthly scene. (Luke 23:43) What will the restored global Paradise be like? How will it be different from the original garden of Eden? 2. (a) What was in the original garden of Eden that will be missing from the earth-wide Paradise? (b) Why is it reasonable that God will not test mankind’s obedience by means of a single tree? 2 In the entrancing prophecies of glorious things that are just ahead, we do see something missing from the restored, earth-wide Paradise. What is that? It is “the tree of the knowledge of good and bad” that was “in the middle of the garden.” (Genesis 2:17; 3:3) This was evidently a single tree. Would it be reasonable to think that in the middle of the restored, earth-wide garden of Eden there should be such a single tree upon which there would be a divine prohibition? No. It would require a tremendous amount of traveling for people in the far corners of the earth to go to the location of such a tree in the Middle East so as possibly to eat fruit from it in disobedience to the Most High God. 3. What else will be missing from the restored Paradise? 3 Moreover, there will not be at such a location a “talking” serpent to invite those who approach the tree to partake of its attractive-looking fruit out of sheer spite for God’s orders. And there will not be any invisible wicked spirit to manipulate a serpent and make it appear to talk and to invite the beholder to rebel against God by adopting a course of disobedience to the Creator, with fatal consequences. 4. Why will Satan the Devil not be on hand during the Thousand Year Reign of the “Prince of Peace”? 4 No, the invisible spirit creature that was behind the “talking” serpent back there in the garden of Eden will not be on hand during the Millennial Reign of the “Prince of Peace,” Christ Jesus. That wicked one, Satan the Devil, will be put under complete restraint after Armageddon. Revelation 20:2, 3 tells us that the “Prince of Peace” will seize “the original serpent, who is the Devil and Satan,” and bind him and hurl him into the abyss for a thousand years. True Peace and Security in the Restored Paradise 5. In the restored Paradise, why will true peace and security prevail earth wide? 5 What peace and security will follow! Gone will be Satan’s influence and domination over mankind as “the ruler of the world”! (John 14:30) With Satan’s hordes of demons also abyssed, the earth will at last be free of all kinds of spiritism, occultism, and black magic—yes, every form of demonism, which Jehovah detests.—Deuteronomy 18:10-12. 6, 7. (a) Why will the animal creation not be any threat to humans? (b) What prophecy in this regard will have a literal fulfillment? 6 The animal creation will not do injury or be any threat to the dwellers in the restored Paradise. God will return to the lower creatures any lost measure of fear of humans. Thus we can look for the charming description of animal life that is set out in Isaiah 11:6-9 to have a literal fulfillment during the Millennial Reign of the “Prince of Peace”: 7 “The wolf will actually reside for a while with the male lamb, and with the kid the leopard itself will lie down, and the calf and the maned young lion and the well-fed animal all together; and a mere little boy will be leader over them. And the cow and the bear themselves will feed; together their young ones will lie down. And even the lion will eat straw just like the bull. And the sucking child will certainly play upon the hole of the cobra; and upon the light aperture of a poisonous snake will a weaned child actually put his own hand. They will not do any harm or cause any ruin in all my holy mountain; because the earth will certainly be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah as the waters are covering the very sea.” 8. What is meant by the prophetic statement that the serpent’s food “will be dust”? 8 It would be inconsistent for God to inspire such a prophecy to have only a spiritual meaning and not to reflect such things in actual earthly life. Similarly, Isaiah 65:25 tells us: “The wolf and the lamb themselves will feed as one, and the lion will eat straw just like the bull; and as for the serpent, his food will be dust.” Does this signify the annihilation of the serpent family out of the global garden of Eden? No, the prophetic statement that the serpent’s food “will be dust” means that members of the reptile family will never again be a menace to the life and good health of human creatures. They will have to recognize that humankind is their master who has dominion over everything that moves upon the earth, just as was the case of Adam in the garden of Eden when he named all the animals without fear.—Genesis 2:19, 20; Hosea 2:18. 9, 10. What do Psalm 65 and Isaiah 25:6 foretell about the earth under the reign of the “Prince of Peace”? 9 The beauty and abundance of that earth-wide garden of Eden is beyond our imagination. But the Bible does give us a prophetic description of it in the 65th psalm, addressed to God. In part, this psalm says: “You have turned your attention to the earth, that you may give it abundance; you enrich it very much. The stream from God is full of water. You prepare their grain, for that is the way you prepare the earth.” No droughts then but, rather, “copious showers”! (Psalm 65:1, 9-13) There will be an abundance of food for all earth’s inhabitants. 10 This abundance is also foretold at Isaiah 25:6: “Jehovah of armies will certainly make for all the peoples, in this mountain, a banquet of well-oiled dishes, a banquet of wine kept on the dregs.” The inhabitants of the restored Paradise will eat well-oiled dishes that sustain the heart and make the face shine. They will drink wine, well aged on the dregs and filtered, making their hearts glad. (Psalm 104:14, 15) No food shortages under the Millennial Reign of the “Prince of Peace”! Instead, there will be “an overflow.”—Psalm 72:16. Changes in Language and in Weather 11. What change in language will take place, and how will this affect mankind? 11 Will the earth-wide Paradise suffer from the confusion of having many languages? No, because the “Prince of Peace” is also referred to as the “Mighty God.” (Isaiah 9:6) Thus he is able to reverse the confusion of language that began at the Tower of Babel. (Genesis 11:6-9) What will become the common language of all the earthly children of the “Eternal Father”? Will it be the original language of the first Adam, the language with which Jehovah endowed him? Likely. In any event, all language barriers will be wiped out. You will be able to travel anywhere and communicate with people. You will be able to understand them, and they will be able to understand you. There will be one language for all mankind, and it would be appropriate for the entire Bible to be available in that language. (Compare Zephaniah 3:9.) In that language all the earth will be filled with the knowledge of Jehovah “as the waters are covering the very sea.”—Isaiah 11:9. 12. How will Zechariah 14:9 experience a fulfillment? 12 Fulfilled then will be the words of Zechariah 14:9: “In that day Jehovah will prove to be one, and his name one.” Jehovah alone will be worshiped as the one true God. In “that day” of Jehovah’s Kingdom by the “Prince of Peace,” God will reveal the exact pronunciation of his name. Then there will be just one pronunciation of that holy name by everybody on earth. His name will be one. 13. Why will weather, wind, and waves pose no threat to earth’s inhabitants? 13 What weather and environmental changes there will be are also a matter of keen interest to those looking forward to the global Paradise of the “Prince of Peace.” One thing is certain: The whole earth will be made an exquisite place in which to live. Never will that Paradise be disturbed by destructive storms, tornadoes, tidal waves, hurricanes, or typhoons. Wind, waves, and weather will all obey the “Prince of Peace.” (Mark 4:37-41) The global garden of Eden will have complete weather control. All the earth will be beautified into a paradise of pleasure, where it will be the happy privilege of all mankind to dwell securely to time without end. 14, 15. (a) What promise recorded at Revelation 21:3, 4 will be fulfilled? (b) How will God tent among mankind? (c) What kind of tears will be wiped out forever? 14 No reason for any tears of sorrow then! Jehovah’s prophetic Word assures us: “The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.”—Revelation 21:3, 4. 15 The heavens are God’s throne, and the earth is his footstool. (Isaiah 66:1) So God cannot dwell on the earth in a literal sense. But he will tent with mankind. During the Thousand Year Reign, Jehovah will tent among mankind representatively by his glorified Son, Jesus Christ. How apt it is that Jehovah’s presence will be represented by his “Prince of Peace”! This brings to mind the words of Isaiah 7:14 about the name applied to the Messiah—Immanuel. That name means “With Us Is God.” (Matthew 1:23) How thrilling that, by means of his dearest Son, God will “reside” with mankind! Then tears of joy will likely come into our eyes as we see the marvelous miracles performed by this “Mighty God,” especially when dead loved ones are brought back to life in the resurrection to Paradise conditions. (Acts 24:15) Such miracles will be marvelous evidence that God is with mankind and that he is wiping out all the sorrowful tears from our eyes forever. A Beauty Spot in the Boundless Universe 16. Does the resurrection of the dead have to wait till Paradise is extended to cover the globe? Explain. 16 The first Adam was told how to start off the project of extending Paradise from right there in the garden of Eden. The accomplishment of that original purpose to extend it earth wide will be realized. But will the resurrection of the dead have to wait until the Paradise extends all around the globe? No. For example, those who come back in an early resurrection will be resurrected into the portions of the earth where the Armageddon survivors are and have converted such areas into a paradise. As the resurrection of mankind in general progresses, these Paradise areas will expand until they join to form the earth-wide Paradise. 17. What description is given of the global Paradise? 17 The Paradise to come will surpass all the lovely parks or gardens today. Radiantly, the entire earth will bloom as a peaceful paradise, one that delights not only the eye of men but even the eye of the Creator. It will be a global garden of Eden adorned with vegetation and trees—good to look at and producing food for sustaining creature life in perfection. The earth will forever remain a beauty spot in all of Jehovah’s boundless universe. And all unified mankind will have the everlasting obligation and privilege to keep the earth such a beauty spot. 18. How do we know that all, men and women, will dwell together peaceably as brothers and sisters? 18 All members of this godly human family will dwell together peaceably as brothers and sisters in all purity, for they will actually be children of the “Eternal Father,” the “Prince of Peace.” So there will be no arrogant dominating on the part of men over women, their sisters. But the perfected women will be what Jehovah God purposes, even as he purposed Eve to be “a helper for” her perfect husband, Adam.—Genesis 2:18; see also 1 Peter 3:7. 19. The Paradise earth will present what sight to those who dwell in the invisible heavens? 19 The sight that the paradisaic earth filled with perfect men and women will then present to those in the invisible heavens will be far grander and lovelier than the appearance of the earth when first created, at which time “the morning stars joyfully cried out together, and all the sons of God began shouting in applause.” (Job 38:7) Then the Most High God, Jehovah, will have been fully vindicated as the One whose glorious purpose can never be defeated. All praise to him! [Picture on page 172, 173] A literal paradise will beautify all of God’s “footstool,” the earth
HOW YOUR DONATIONS ARE USED Convention Programs That Are “Heard and Seen”	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502500226	HOW YOUR DONATIONS ARE USED Convention Programs That Are “Heard and Seen” JULY 1, 2024 For more than 130 years, modern-day Witnesses of Jehovah have gathered together at annual conventions. These programs now feature over 40 different talks along with music, interviews, and videos. If the program is to benefit and motivate those who attend, it must be “heard and seen” clearly. (Luke 2:20) How are your donations being used to make sure that all can benefit from these conventions, regardless of where they live? Audio/Video Systems Customized for Each Convention Venue Many modern stadiums and arenas in Western countries already have audio/video systems. So when we rent such a venue for a convention, why do we often install our own equipment? David, who works with the World Headquarters Broadcasting Department, explains: “Few of the facilities that we rent are designed to have an audience listen closely for over six hours to what is primarily a spoken-word program. Sports venues, for example, use the public address system primarily to make short announcements and to play musical snippets. Their video screens display game scores, advertisements, and replays. In contrast, we want the audience to watch longer videos and to hear and understand clearly every word spoken from the platform.” Each convention venue is unique, so each audio/video system must be customized. As soon as venues are selected, Broadcasting Departments at our branch offices determine where attendees will be seated based on the estimated attendance and the capacity of the facility. The brothers then determine mathematically where speakers and video screens need to be installed, map out how they will be connected, and then list all equipment that will be needed to ensure that everyone will be able to see and hear the program. Brothers from the Local Broadcasting Department (LBD) follow a carefully designed plan Audio/video systems become even more complex at conventions where the program will be presented in multiple languages. If the program will be interpreted into another language, audio and video must be fed to the interpreters and then the interpretation needs to be transmitted on a separate radio channel to those who understand that language. Thanks to special media players, video can be synchronized for all in attendance, even if the audio is transmitted in eight different languages. “These systems are very complex,” says David, “and the volunteers that operate them require a lot of training.” Most branch offices have a supply of audio/video equipment that is used every year. Where that is the case, the brothers arrange for each piece of equipment to travel from one convention to the next. The United States branch alone spends over $200,000a each year just to ship convention equipment. Still, this reduces our need to buy and maintain additional equipment. Steven, who helped oversee audio/video at a convention in Canada, relates, “Our audio/video team did its best to make sure that every nut, bolt, cord, and part was accounted for, cared for, packed away safely, and ready for the next program.” Obtaining and Maintaining the Equipment Renting audio/video equipment is extremely costly, and the equipment is often of low quality or poorly maintained. For that reason, we generally purchase the equipment we need. Presently, an indoor LED video wall measuring five by three meters (16 by 10 ft) costs about $24,000, and even a single 15-meter (50-ft) microphone cable is about $20. Thus, Broadcasting works with the Purchasing Department to “calculate the expense” before purchasing any equipment. (Luke 14:28) For example, how many people will benefit from the equipment? Is purchasing new equipment the best way to fill the need? Do we have adequate storage for the equipment, and do we have the tools and the trained volunteers needed to maintain it? To extend the life of the audio/video equipment and thus save dedicated funds, we regularly perform electronic and mechanical repairs. We also ship the equipment in heavy-duty cases to limit damage, and these cases too are repaired as needed. Maintaining and repairing audio/video equipment extends its life A Fine Witness and a Clear Program Non-Witnesses have been impressed by the quality of audio/video at our conventions. At one convention, for example, an employee of one of the world’s leading broadcasters remarked on the quality of our output and production. “He was amazed when he found out that the members of our team were all volunteers and not professionals,” relates Jonathan, who helps set up and operate audio/video equipment at conventions. “He said it would take his company five days to install what we installed in only a day and a half.” At another convention, the facility manager stated, “Many music and video professionals have been here, yet I have never seen this level of professionalism and expertise!” Brothers and sisters enjoying the program How have you benefited from the audio/video systems at the convention? Perhaps you feel like David, who lives in England. He says: “I am 88 years old and have attended conventions all my life. Yet, now it is easier than ever to give my undivided attention to the material. Thanks to the beautiful videos, the whole program moves along more quickly and the message is conveyed more clearly and uniformly.” Micheal, who lives in Nigeria, observes, “Because our brothers no longer struggle to hear the speaker or see the videos, they are able to concentrate and they don’t lose interest during the program.” As you attend this year’s “Declare the Good News!” Regional and Special Conventions, take a moment to consider what was involved in helping you to hear and see the program. We are grateful that your donations, including those made via donate.jw.org, have helped make that possible. Thank you. a All dollar amounts in this article refer to U.S. dollars.
BIBLE VERSES EXPLAINED Hebrews 4:12—“The Word of God Is Living and Active”	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502300156	BIBLE VERSES EXPLAINED Hebrews 4:12—“The Word of God Is Living and Active” “For the word of God is alive and exerts power and is sharper than any two-edged sword and pierces even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of joints from the marrow, and is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart.”—Hebrews 4:12, New World Translation. “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”—Hebrews 4:12, English Standard Version. Meaning of Hebrews 4:12 God’s message to humankind, as recorded in the Bible, has the power to reveal our true thoughts and motives. That message can also change people for the better. “The word of God is alive.” The expression “the word of God” refers to God’s word of promise, or his stated purpose, as recorded in the Bible.a An important aspect of that purpose is for obedient humans to live forever on earth in true peace and unity.—Genesis 1:28; Psalm 37:29; Revelation 21:3, 4. How is God’s word, or his expressed purpose, “alive”? For one thing, it has a powerful effect on the hearts of those who accept it, giving them hope and a purpose in life. (Deuteronomy 30:14; 32:47) God’s word of promise is also “alive” in that the living God is working toward the complete fulfillment of his promises. (John 5:17) Unlike humans, God does not make a promise and then forget about it or discover that he is unable to fulfill it. (Numbers 23:19) His word “will not return to [him] without results.”—Isaiah 55:10, 11. “The word of God . . . exerts power.” The expression “exerts power” can also be rendered “is powerful,” “is active,” or “accomplishes whatever [that word] is intended to accomplish.” Therefore, anything Jehovahb God says or promises is sure to be fulfilled. (Psalm 135:6; Isaiah 46:10) In fact, God can fulfill his promises in ways that far exceed our expectations.—Ephesians 3:20.c God’s word also “exerts power” by helping those who appreciate its value to make positive changes in their life and personality. God’s teachings become part of them, influencing their thinking, lifestyle, and goals. (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:24) In that sense, “the word of God . . . is also at work in” those who accept it as such.—1 Thessalonians 2:13. “The word of God . . . is sharper than any two-edged sword.” Figuratively speaking, God’s word is sharper than any man-made sword because of its penetrating power. God’s message can reach the heart—the inner person—in ways that no human teaching can. This is revealed in what Hebrews 4:12 goes on to say. “The word of God . . . pierces even to the dividing of soul and spirit, and of joints from the marrow.” In the Bible, “soul” can refer to who the person appears to be, whereas “spirit” can refer to who he really is inside. (Galatians 6:18) Figuratively speaking, “the word of God” penetrates right to “the marrow,” our very deepest feelings and thoughts. By revealing who we truly are on the inside, where no human can see, Jehovah’s teachings can move us to make positive changes. This brings joy both to our Creator and to us. “The word of God . . . is able to discern thoughts and intentions of the heart.” The way a person responds to God’s word can reveal his true thoughts, even his very intentions or motives, which influence his behavior or conduct. For example, if a person responds positively to God’s word by making needed changes in his life, he shows that he is humble and sincere. He wants to please his Creator. On the other hand, if he tries to find fault with God’s word, he may be revealing negative traits, such as undue pride or selfishness. Perhaps he is trying to justify conduct that God disapproves.—Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 1:24-27. As one reference work says, the word of God “can reach to the innermost recesses of our being.” There is no aspect of the inner person that God cannot see and that his word cannot bring to light. “All things are naked and openly exposed to the eyes of the one to whom we must give an account,” says Hebrews 4:13. Context of Hebrews 4:12 Written by the apostle Paul in about 61 C.E., the Bible book of Hebrews is a divinely inspired letter to Jewish Christians in Jerusalem and Judea. In chapters 3 and 4, Paul highlights how the example of the ancient Israelites serves as a warning for Christians. (Hebrews 3:8-12; 4:11) Jehovah promised to rescue the Israelites from slavery and to settle them in a land where they could “dwell in security.” (Deuteronomy 12:9, 10) However, the generation of Israelites that left Egypt repeatedly showed a lack of faith in God’s promises and routinely disobeyed his commandments. As a result, they did not “enter into [God’s] rest” and enjoy a peaceful relationship with God. Instead, they died in the wilderness. Although their descendants inherited the Promised Land, they too fell into a pattern of disobedience. In time, this cost the nation dearly.—Nehemiah 9:29, 30; Psalm 95:9-11; Luke 13:34, 35. Paul explains that Christians should learn from the bad example of the unfaithful Israelites. Unlike them, we can enter into God’s rest by obeying his word and by having complete faith in his promises.—Hebrews 4:1-3, 11. Read Hebrews chapter 4 in the study edition of the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. This easy-to-read Bible contains audio recordings, explanatory notes, cross-references, pictures, videos, and maps. Watch this short video to see an overview of the book of Hebrews. a In Hebrews 4:12, the expression “the word of God” does not refer exclusively to the Bible. However, since God arranged for his promises to be recorded in that book, Hebrews 4:12 can be applied to it. b Jehovah is the personal name of God. (Psalm 83:18) See the article “Who Is Jehovah?” c See the article “Ephesians 3:20—‘[God] Is Able to Do Exceeding Abundantly Above All That We Ask or Think.’”
Creation (ce) 1985	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/ce	Chapter 2 Disagreements About Evolution—Why? When a special centennial edition of Darwin’s Origin of Species was to be published, W. R. Thompson, then director of the Commonwealth Institute of Biological Control, in Ottawa, Canada, was invited to write its introduction. In it he said: “As we know, there is a great divergence of opinion among biologists, not only about the causes of evolution but even about the actual process. This divergence exists because the evidence is unsatisfactory and does not permit any certain conclusion. It is therefore right and proper to draw the attention of the non-scientific public to the disagreements about evolution”⁠a 1, 2. (a) How has the word “fact” been defined? (b) What are some examples of facts? THOSE who support the theory of evolution feel that it is now an established fact. They believe that evolution is an “actual occurrence,” a “reality,” a “truth,” as one dictionary defines the word “fact.” But is it? 2 To illustrate: It was once believed that the earth was flat. Now it has been established for a certainty that it is spherical in shape. That is a fact. It was once believed that the earth was the center of the universe and that the heavens revolved around the earth. Now we know for sure that the earth revolves in an orbit around the sun. This, too, is a fact. Many things that were once only debated theories have been established by the evidence as solid fact, reality, truth. 3. (a) What indicates that evolution as an established “fact” is still in question? (b) What approach will be helpful in examining the current status of evolution? 3 Would an investigation of the evidence for evolution leave one on the same solid ground? Interestingly, ever since Charles Darwin’s book The Origin of Species was published in 1859, various aspects of the theory have been a matter of considerable disagreement even among top evolutionary scientists. Today, that dispute is more intense than ever. And it is enlightening to consider what advocates of evolution themselves are saying about the matter. Evolution Under Assault 4-6. What has been happening among those who promote evolution? 4 The scientific magazine Discover put the situation this way: “Evolution . . . is not only under attack by fundamentalist Christians, but is also being questioned by reputable scientists. Among paleontologists, scientists who study the fossil record, there is growing dissent from the prevailing view of Darwinism.”⁠1 Francis Hitching, an evolutionist and author of the book The Neck of the Giraffe, stated: “For all its acceptance in the scientific world as the great unifying principle of biology, Darwinism, after a century and a quarter, is in a surprising amount of trouble.”⁠2 5 After an important conference of some 150 specialists in evolution held in Chicago, Illinois, a report concluded: “[Evolution] is undergoing its broadest and deepest revolution in nearly 50 years. . . . Exactly how evolution happened is now a matter of great controversy among biologists. . . . No clear resolution of the controversies was in sight.”⁠3 6 Paleontologist Niles Eldredge, a prominent evolutionist, said: “The doubt that has infiltrated the previous, smugly confident certitude of evolutionary biology’s last twenty years has inflamed passions.” He spoke of the “lack of total agreement even within the warring camps,” and added, “things really are in an uproar these days . . . Sometimes it seems as though there are as many variations on each [evolutionary] theme as there are individual biologists.”⁠4 7, 8. How did one respected writer comment on Darwin’s Origin of Species? 7 A London Times writer, Christopher Booker (who accepts evolution), said this about it: “It was a beautifully simple and attractive theory. The only trouble was that, as Darwin was himself at least partly aware, it was full of colossal holes.” Regarding Darwin’s Origin of Species, he observed: “We have here the supreme irony that a book which has become famous for explaining the origin of species in fact does nothing of the kind.”—Italics added. 8 Booker also stated: “A century after Darwin’s death, we still have not the slightest demonstrable or even plausible idea of how evolution really took place—and in recent years this has led to an extraordinary series of battles over the whole question. . . . a state of almost open war exists among the evolutionists themselves, with every kind of [evolutionary] sect urging some new modification.” He concluded: “As to how and why it really happened, we have not the slightest idea and probably never shall.”⁠5 9. How is the situation among evolutionists in recent times described? 9 Evolutionist Hitching agreed, saying: “Feuds concerning the theory of evolution exploded . . . Entrenched positions, for and against, were established in high places, and insults lobbed like mortar bombs from either side.” He said that it is an academic dispute of far-reaching proportions, “potentially one of those times in science when, quite suddenly, a long-held idea is overthrown by the weight of contrary evidence and a new one takes its place.”⁠6 And Britain’s New Scientist observed that “an increasing number of scientists, most particularly a growing number of evolutionists . . . argue that Darwinian evolutionary theory is no genuine scientific theory at all. . . . Many of the critics have the highest intellectual credentials.”⁠7 Dilemmas Over Origins 10. Has an evolutionary origin of life on earth been established as fact? 10 Regarding the question of how life originated, astronomer Robert Jastrow said: “To their chagrin [scientists] have no clear-cut answer, because chemists have never succeeded in reproducing nature’s experiments on the creation of life out of nonliving matter. Scientists do not know how that happened.” He added: “Scientists have no proof that life was not the result of an act of creation.”⁠8 11. Complex body organs present what difficulty for evolution? 11 But the difficulty does not stop with the origin of life. Consider such body organs as the eye, the ear, the brain. All are staggering in their complexity, far more so than the most intricate man-made device. A problem for evolution has been the fact that all parts of such organs have to work together for sight, hearing or thinking to take place. Such organs would have been useless until all the individual parts were completed. So the question arises: Could the undirected element of chance that is thought to be a driving force of evolution have brought all these parts together at the right time to produce such elaborate mechanisms? 12. (a) How did Darwin comment on the origin of the eye? (b) Is the problem nearer to being solved today? 12 Darwin acknowledged this as a problem. For example, he wrote: “To suppose that the eye . . . could have been formed by [evolution], seems, I freely confess, absurd in the highest degree.”⁠9 More than a century has passed since then. Has the problem been solved? No. On the contrary, since Darwin’s time what has been learned about the eye shows that it is even more complex than he understood it to be. Thus Jastrow said: “The eye appears to have been designed; no designer of telescopes could have done better.”⁠10 13. What did one scientist conclude about the brain? 13 If this is so of the eye, what, then, of the human brain? Since even a simple machine does not evolve by chance, how can it be a fact that the infinitely more complex brain did? Jastrow concluded: “It is hard to accept the evolution of the human eye as a product of chance; it is even harder to accept the evolution of human intelligence as the product of random disruptions in the brain cells of our ancestors.”⁠11 Dilemmas Over Fossils 14. Is it true that the fossil evidence supports evolution? 14 Millions of bones and other evidence of past life have been unearthed by scientists, and these are called fossils. If evolution were a fact, surely in all of this there should be ample evidence of one kind of living thing evolving into another kind. But the Bulletin of Chicago’s Field Museum of Natural History commented: “Darwin’s theory of [evolution] has always been closely instructioned to evidence from fossils, and probably most people assume that fossils provide a very important part of the general argument that is made in favor of darwinian interpretations of the history of life. Unfortunately, this is not strictly true.” 15. (a) How did Darwin view the fossil evidence in his day? (b) After more than a century of collecting fossils, what does the evidence reveal? 15 Why not? The Bulletin went on to say that Darwin “was embarrassed by the fossil record because it didn’t look the way he predicted it would . . . the geologic record did not then and still does not yield a finely graduated chain of slow and progressive evolution.” In fact now, after more than a century of collecting fossils, “we have even fewer examples of evolutionary transition than we had in Darwin’s time,” explained the Bulletin.⁠12 Why is this the case? Because the more abundant fossil evidence available today shows that some of the examples that were once used to support evolution now are seen not to do so at all. 16. What do many evolutionary scientists now acknowledge? 16 This failure of the fossil evidence to support gradual evolution has disturbed many evolutionists. In The New Evolutionary Timetable, Steven Stanley spoke of “the general failure of the record to display gradual transitions from one major group to another.” He said: “The known fossil record is not, and never has been, in accord with [slow evolution].”⁠13 Niles Eldredge also admitted: “The pattern that we were told to find for the last 120 years does not exist.”⁠14 Newer Theories 17. How did Science Digest comment on the newer theories? 17 All of this has led many scientists to champion novel theories for evolution. Science Digest put it this way: “Some scientists are proposing even more rapid evolutionary changes and are now dealing quite seriously with ideas once popularized only in fiction.”⁠15 18. What difficulty is there with the more recent theory that life began in outer space? 18 For instance, some scientists have concluded that life could not have arisen spontaneously on earth. Instead, they speculate that it must have originated in outer space and then floated down to the earth. But that just pushes the problem of the origin of life further back and into a more forbidding setting. The perils confronting life in the hostile environment of outer space are well known. Is it likely, then, that life began spontaneously elsewhere in the universe and survived under such harsh conditions to reach the earth, and later to develop into life as we know it? 19, 20. What new theory are some evolutionists promoting? 19 Since the fossil record does not show a gradual development of life from one type into another, some evolutionists theorize that the process must have happened by jerks and starts, not at a steady pace. As The World Book Encyclopedia explains: “Many biologists think new species may be produced by sudden, drastic changes in genes.”⁠16 20 Some adherents to this theory have called the process “punctuated equilibrium.” That is, species maintain their “equilibrium” (they stay much the same), but every once in a while there is a “punctuation” (a big jump to evolve into something else). This is just the opposite of the theory that has been accepted by nearly all evolutionists for many decades. The gulf between the two theories was illustrated by a headline in The New York Times: “Theory of Rapid Evolution Attacked.” The article noted that the newer “punctuated equilibrium” idea had “aroused new opposition” among those who hold to the traditional view.⁠17 21. (a) Regardless of which theory of evolution is accepted, what evidence should exist? (b) Yet what do the facts show? 21 Regardless of which theory is held, it is reasonable that there should be at least some evidence to show that one kind of life turns into another kind. But the gaps between different types of life found in the fossil record, as well as the gaps between different types of living things on earth today, still persist. 22, 23. How has Darwin’s idea of “survival of the fittest” been challenged in recent times? 22 Also, it is revealing to see what has happened to Darwin’s long-accepted idea regarding the “survival of the fittest.” This he called “natural selection.” That is, he believed that nature “selected” the fittest living things to survive. As these “fit” ones supposedly acquired new features that worked to their advantage, they slowly evolved. But the evidence of the past 125 years shows that, while the fittest may indeed survive, this does not explain how they arrived. One lion may be fitter than another lion, but that does not explain how he got to be a lion. And all of his offspring will still be lions, not something else. 23 Thus, in Harper’s magazine, writer Tom Bethell commented: “Darwin made a mistake sufficiently serious to undermine his theory. And that mistake has only recently been recognized as such. . . . One organism may indeed be ‘fitter’ than another . . . This, of course, is not something which helps create the organism, . . . It is clear, I think, that there was something very, very wrong with such an idea.” Bethell added: “As I see it the conclusion is pretty staggering: Darwin’s theory, I believe, is on the verge of collapse.”⁠18 Fact or Theory? 24, 25. (a) What are some of the areas in which evolution has not met the standard of being an established fact? (b) In line with what an evolutionist said about the modern theory, how could it be regarded? 24 Summarizing some of the unsolved problems confronting evolution, Francis Hitching observed: “In three crucial areas where [the modern evolution theory] can be tested, it has failed: The fossil record reveals a pattern of evolutionary leaps rather than gradual change. Genes are a powerful stabilizing mechanism whose main function is to prevent new forms evolving. Random step-by-step mutations at the molecular level cannot explain the organized and growing complexity of life.”—Italics added. 25 Then Hitching concluded by making this observation: “To put it at its mildest, one may question an evolutionary theory so beset by doubts among even those who teach it. If Darwinism is truly the great unifying principle of biology, it encompasses extraordinarily large areas of ignorance. It fails to explain some of the most basic questions of all: how lifeless chemicals came alive, what rules of grammar lie behind the genetic code, how genes shape the form of living things.” In fact, Hitching stated that he considered the modern theory of evolution “so inadequate that it deserves to be treated as a matter of faith.”⁠19 26. Why is it not reasonable to continue insisting that evolution is a fact? 26 However, many advocates of evolution feel that they do have sufficient reason to insist that evolution is a fact. They explain that they are just arguing over details. But if any other theory had such enormous remaining difficulties, and such major contradictions among those who advocate it, would it so readily be pronounced a fact? Merely repeating that something is a fact does not make it a fact. As John R. Durant, a biologist, wrote in The Guardian of London: “Many scientists succumb to the temptation to be dogmatic, . . . over and over again the question of the origin of the species has been presented as if it were finally settled. Nothing could be further from the truth. . . . But the tendency to be dogmatic persists, and it does no service to the cause of science.”⁠20 27. What other framework for the evidence is there, which offers a basis for understanding how life got here? 27 On the other hand, what about creation as an explanation for how life got here? Does it offer a framework for the evidence that is any more sound than the assertions that often underpin evolution? And, as the best-known creation account, does Genesis shed any credible light on how the earth and living things got here? [Blurb on page 14] “Darwinism, after a century and a quarter, is in a surprising amount of trouble” [Blurb on page 15] “Exactly how evolution happened is now a matter of great controversy among biologists” [Blurb on page 18] “The eye appears to have been designed; no designer of telescopes could have done better” [Blurb on page 21] “The pattern that we were told to find for the last 120 years does not exist” [Blurb on page 21] “Some scientists are proposing . . . [evolutionary] ideas once popularized only in fiction” [Blurb on page 22] New theories contradict what has been accepted for many decades [Blurb on page 23] “Darwin’s theory, I believe, is on the verge of collapse” [Blurb on page 24] “Over and over again the question of the origin of the species has been presented as if it were finally settled. Nothing could be further from the truth” [Box on page 18] “Computer Scientists Stymied in Their Quest to Match Human Vision” Under the above headline The New York Times reported: “Experts pursuing one of man’s most audacious dreams—to create machines that think—have stumbled while taking what seemed to be an elementary first step. They have failed to master vision. “After two decades of research, they have yet to teach machines the seemingly simple act of being able to recognize everyday objects and to distinguish one from another. “Instead, they have developed a profound new respect for the sophistication of human sight. . . . The human retina is the envy of computer scientists. Its 100 million rods and cones and its layers of neurons perform at least 10 billion calculations per second.”⁠b [Picture on page 16] Of Darwin’s book The Origin of Species, a London Times writer who accepts evolution wrote: “We have here the supreme irony that a book which has become famous for explaining the origin of species in fact does nothing of the kind” [Picture on page 17] An evolutionist stated: “Entrenched positions, for and against, were established . . . and insults lobbed like mortar bombs from either side” [Pictures on page 19] Said astronomer Robert Jastrow: “It is hard to accept the evolution of the human eye as a product of chance; it is even harder to accept the evolution of human intelligence as the product of random disruptions in the brain cells of our ancestors” [Pictures on page 20] “Some of the classic cases of darwinian change in the fossil record . . . have had to be discarded or modified as a result of more detailed information.”⁠c—David Raup, Chicago’s Field Museum of Natural History Eohippus Archaeopteryx Lungfish [Picture on page 22] While the fittest may survive, this does not explain how they arrive
Ministry School (be) 2002	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/be	Front Endsheets
God Promises Perfect Mental Health	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2023010	God Promises Perfect Mental Health Through the Bible, God provides guidance and comfort to deal with mental distress. But God has done even more. He has promised to remove the very causes of mental disorders permanently. When God fulfills that promise, never again will painful feelings, mental distress, and hurtful memories “be called to mind, nor will they come up into the heart.”—Isaiah 65:17. Jehovah’s Witnesses will be happy to help you find out when and how God will fulfill this heartwarming promise.
“Trust in Jehovah and Do What Is Good”	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2017242	“Trust in Jehovah and Do What Is Good” “Trust in Jehovah and do what is good . . . and act with faithfulness.”—PS. 37:3. SONGS: 150, 124 WHAT CAN WE LEARN ABOUT TRUSTING IN JEHOVAH FROM . . . Noah? David? other faithful servants of Jehovah? 1. Jehovah created humans with what remarkable abilities? JEHOVAH created humans with remarkable abilities. He gave us thinking ability to solve problems and plan for the future. (Prov. 2:11) He gave us power to carry out our plans, enabling us to work toward proper goals. (Phil. 2:13) He also created us with a conscience—an inborn sense of right and wrong—that can help us avoid wrongdoing and correct our mistakes when we fall short.—Rom. 2:15. 2. How does Jehovah expect us to use our abilities? 2 Jehovah expects us to put our abilities to good use. Why? Because he loves us, and he knows that it brings us satisfaction when we employ these gifts. Through his Word, Jehovah repeatedly admonishes us to use our abilities for good. For example, in the Hebrew Scriptures, we read: “The plans of the diligent surely lead to success”; and “whatever your hand finds to do, do with all your might.” (Prov. 21:5; Eccl. 9:10) In the Christian Greek Scriptures, we are told: “As long as we have the opportunity, let us work what is good toward all”; and “to the extent that each one has received a gift, use it in ministering to one another.” (Gal. 6:10; 1 Pet. 4:10) Clearly, Jehovah wants us to do what we can to benefit ourselves and others. 3. What limitations do humans have? 3 At the same time, Jehovah knows that humans have limitations. On our own, we can never eliminate imperfection, sin, and death; neither can we control other people, for all have free will. (1 Ki. 8:46) And no matter how much knowledge or experience we gain, we will always be like children in comparison with Jehovah.—Isa. 55:9. When dealing with problems, “trust in Jehovah and do what is good” 4. What will we consider in this article? 4 In all circumstances, we need to lean on Jehovah for guidance, trusting in him to support us and do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. At the same time, we should do what we can, taking appropriate action to solve problems and help others. (Read Psalm 37:3.) In short, we need both ‘to trust in Jehovah and to do what is good’; we need ‘to act with faithfulness.’ In this regard, let us consider what we can learn from the examples of Noah, David, and other faithful servants of God who relied on Jehovah and took appropriate action. As we will see, this involved distinguishing between what they could not do and what they could do and then acting accordingly. WHEN SURROUNDED BY WICKEDNESS 5. Describe the situation that Noah faced. 5 Noah lived in a world that was “filled with violence” and immorality. (Gen. 6:4, 9-13) He knew that Jehovah would eventually bring an end to that wicked world. Even so, Noah must have been distressed by such ungodly conditions. In that situation, Noah recognized that there were some things he could not do but other things he could do. Opposition to our preaching (See paragraphs 6-9) 6, 7. (a) What could Noah not do? (b) How are we in a situation similar to Noah’s? 6 What Noah could not do: Although Noah faithfully preached Jehovah’s warning message, he could not force wicked people around him to accept that message, nor could he make the Flood come any sooner. Noah had to trust that Jehovah would keep His promise to end wickedness, believing that God would do so at just the right time.—Gen. 6:17. 7 We too live in a world filled with wickedness, which we know Jehovah has promised to destroy. (1 John 2:17) In the meantime, we cannot force people to accept the “good news of the Kingdom.” And we cannot do anything to speed up the start of the “great tribulation.” (Matt. 24:14, 21) Like Noah, we need strong faith, trusting that God will soon intervene. (Ps. 37:10, 11) We are convinced that Jehovah will not allow this wicked world to continue for even one day longer than his purpose requires.—Hab. 2:3. 8. How did Noah focus on what he could do? (See opening picture.) 8 What Noah could do: Instead of giving up because of what he could not do, Noah focused on what he could do. As “a preacher of righteousness,” Noah faithfully proclaimed the warning message he had been given. (2 Pet. 2:5) No doubt, doing so helped Noah keep his faith strong. In addition to preaching, he also used his physical and mental abilities to accomplish the God-assigned work of building an ark.—Read Hebrews 11:7. 9. How can we imitate Noah’s example? 9 Like Noah, we strive to have “plenty to do in the work of the Lord.” (1 Cor. 15:58) Such work may include the construction and maintenance of facilities for worship, volunteering to assist at assemblies and conventions, or caring for assignments at a branch office or a remote translation office. Above all, we stay busy in the preaching work, knowing that this work strengthens our hope for the future. One faithful sister put it this way: “When you talk to others about the blessings of God’s Kingdom, you realize that your listeners have absolutely no hope and that they see their problems as permanent.” Indeed, sharing in the preaching work fortifies our positive view of the future and our resolve not to give up in the race for life.—1 Cor. 9:24. WHEN WE FALL SHORT 10. Describe the situation that David faced. 10 Jehovah described King David as “a man agreeable to [his] heart.” (Acts 13:22) Overall, David’s life course was one of faithfulness. Even so, on occasion he fell into serious sin. He committed adultery with Bath-sheba. To make matters worse, he tried to hide the sin by arranging for her husband, Uriah, to be killed in battle. David even sent what amounted to Uriah’s death sentence by means of the man’s own hand! (2 Sam. 11:1-21) Inevitably, David’s sins came to light. (Mark 4:22) When that happened, how did David react? Past sins (See paragraphs 11-14) 11, 12. (a) After he sinned, what could David not do? (b) If we repent after making serious mistakes, we can trust that Jehovah will do what for us? 11 What David could not do: David could not undo what he had done. And he could not escape the consequences of his mistakes. In fact, some of those consequences would stay with David for the rest of his life. (2 Sam. 12:10-12, 14) Thus, he needed faith. He had to trust that when he truly repented, Jehovah would forgive him and help him endure the consequences of his actions. 12 Being imperfect, all of us sin. Some mistakes are more serious than others. In some cases, we may not be able to undo our mistakes. We may simply have to live with the consequences. (Gal. 6:7) But we take God at his word, trusting that if we are repentant, Jehovah will support us through difficult times—even when those difficulties are of our own making.—Read Isaiah 1:18, 19; Acts 3:19. 13. How did David recover spiritually? 13 What David could do: David allowed Jehovah to help him recover spiritually. One way he did that was by accepting correction from Jehovah’s representative, the prophet Nathan. (2 Sam. 12:13) David also prayed to Jehovah, confessing his sins and expressing a sincere desire to be restored to Jehovah’s favor. (Ps. 51:1-17) Instead of being paralyzed by guilt, David learned from his mistakes. Indeed, he never repeated those serious sins. Years later, he died faithful, his record of integrity firmly sealed in Jehovah’s memory.—Heb. 11:32-34. 14. What can we learn from David’s example? 14 What can we learn from David’s example? If we fall into serious sin, we need to repent sincerely and seek Jehovah’s forgiveness. We must confess our sins to him. (1 John 1:9) We also need to approach the elders, who can offer us spiritual help. (Read James 5:14-16.) By availing ourselves of Jehovah’s arrangements, we show that we trust in his promise to heal and forgive us. Thereafter, we do well to learn from our mistakes, move forward in our service to Jehovah, and look to the future with confidence.—Heb. 12:12, 13. IN OTHER SITUATIONS Health problems (See paragraph 15) 15. What do we learn from Hannah’s example? 15 Likely, you can think of other faithful servants of old who trusted in Jehovah while taking appropriate action. For example, Hannah could not overcome the problem of barrenness on her own. But she trusted that Jehovah would comfort her, so she continued to worship at the tabernacle and pour out her heart in prayer. (1 Sam. 1:9-11) Is that not a good example for us? When we deal with health problems or other challenges beyond our control, we throw our anxiety on Jehovah, trusting that he cares for us. (1 Pet. 5:6, 7) And we do what is within our power to benefit from Christian meetings and other spiritual provisions.—Heb. 10:24, 25. Wayward children (See paragraph 16) 16. What can parents learn from elderly Samuel? 16 What about faithful parents whose children have gone astray? Elderly Samuel could not force his adult sons to remain loyal to the righteous standards he taught them. (1 Sam. 8:1-3) He had to leave the matter in Jehovah’s hands. Even so, Samuel could maintain his own integrity and please his heavenly Father, Jehovah. (Prov. 27:11) Today, a number of Christian parents find themselves in a similar situation. They trust that like the father in the parable of the prodigal son, Jehovah is ever on the lookout to welcome back sinners who repent. (Luke 15:20) At the same time, such parents work hard to remain loyal to Jehovah, hoping that their example will move their children to return to the fold. Low finances (See paragraph 17) 17. Why is the example of the needy widow encouraging? 17 Think, too, of the needy widow in Jesus’ day. (Read Luke 21:1-4.) She could hardly do anything about the corrupt practices being carried on at the temple. (Matt. 21:12, 13) And there was likely little she could do to improve her financial situation. Yet, she voluntarily contributed those “two small coins,” which were “all the means of living she had.” That faithful woman demonstrated wholehearted trust in Jehovah, knowing that if she put spiritual things first, he would provide for her physical needs. The widow’s trust moved her to support the existing arrangement for true worship. Likewise, we trust that if we seek first the Kingdom, Jehovah will make sure that we have what we need.—Matt. 6:33. 18. Give an example of a modern-day servant who had the right outlook. 18 Many of our modern-day fellow believers have similarly demonstrated trust in Jehovah and have taken appropriate action. Consider a brother named Malcolm, who remained faithful until his death in 2015. Over the decades that he and his wife served Jehovah, they experienced ups and downs. “Life is unpredictable at times, uncertain, and even hard to deal with,” he said. “But Jehovah blesses those who lean on him.” Malcolm’s advice? “Pray to be as productive and as active in Jehovah’s service as you can be. Focus on what you can do, not on what you cannot do.”a 19. (a) Why is our yeartext for 2017 fitting? (b) How will you apply the 2017 yeartext in your life? 19 As this system of things goes “from bad to worse,” we can expect to face increasingly greater difficulties. (2 Tim. 3:1, 13) So it is more important than ever that we do not allow ourselves to be paralyzed by such challenges. Rather, we need to cultivate strong trust in Jehovah while taking whatever appropriate action we can. How fitting, then, is our yeartext for 2017: “Trust in Jehovah and do what is good”!—Ps. 37:3. Our yeartext for 2017: “Trust in Jehovah and do what is good.”—Psalm 37:3 a See The Watchtower, October 15, 2013, pp. 17-20.
A Peaceful New World (T-17) 1992	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/tracts/a-peaceful-new-world-t-17	A Peaceful New World—Will It Come? When you look at the scene on this tract, what feelings do you have? Does not your heart yearn for the peace, happiness, and prosperity seen there? Surely it does. But is it just a dream, or fantasy, to believe that these conditions will ever exist on earth? Most people probably think so. Today’s realities are war, crime, hunger, sickness, aging—to mention just a few. Yet there is reason for hope. The Hebrew Scriptures foretell that God will create a “new heavens and a new earth” and that “the former things will not be called to mind, neither will they come up into the heart.”—Isaiah 65:17. These “new heavens” and “new earth,” according to the Scriptures, are not a new material heavens or new literal earth. The physical earth and heavens were made perfect, and the Scriptures show they will remain forever. (Psalm 89:36, 37; 104:5) The “new earth” will be a righteous society of people living on earth, and the “new heavens” will be a perfect heavenly kingdom, or government, that will rule over this earthly society of people. But is it realistic to believe that “a new earth,” or glorious new world, is possible? Well, consider the fact that such ideal conditions were part of God’s original purpose for this earth. He placed the first human couple in the earthly Paradise of Eden and gave them a marvelous assignment: “Be fruitful and become many and fill the earth and subdue it.” (Genesis 1:28) Yes, God’s purpose was for them to have children and eventually to spread their Paradise over all the earth. Although they later chose to disobey God, thus proving to be unfit to live forever, God’s original purpose did not change. And it must be fulfilled in a new world!—Isaiah 55:11. In fact, it is the Messiah, promised in the Hebrew Scriptures, who will serve as a divinely appointed king and rule over this new world. (Psalm 2:2, 6-9; Daniel 7:13, 14) The Messiah will rid the earth of all wickedness, and then the psalm will be fulfilled: “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it.”—Psalm 37:29. Life in God’s New World The Messiah’s rule will bring earthly benefits beyond compare, accomplishing everything good that God originally purposed for his people to enjoy on earth. Hatreds and prejudices will cease to exist, and eventually everyone on earth will be a true friend of everyone else. In the Scriptures, God promises that he will ‘make wars to cease to the extremity of the earth.’ “Nation will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore.”—Psalm 46:9; Isaiah 2:4. The whole earth will eventually be brought to a gardenlike paradise state. The Scriptures say: “The wilderness and the waterless region will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron. . . . For in the wilderness waters will have burst out, and torrents in the desert plain. And the heat-parched ground will have become as a reedy pool, and the thirsty ground as springs of water.”—Isaiah 35:1, 6, 7. There will be every reason to be happy in the Paradise earth. Never again will people feel hunger because of lack of food. “The earth itself will certainly give its produce,” the Scriptures say. (Psalm 67:6; 72:16) All will enjoy the fruits of their own labor, as our Creator promises: “They will certainly plant vineyards and eat their fruitage. . . . They will not plant and someone else do the eating.”—Isaiah 65:21, 22. In God’s new world, no longer will people be crammed into huge apartment buildings or run-down slums, for God has purposed: “They will certainly build houses and have occupancy . . . They will not build and someone else have occupancy.” The Scriptures also promise: “They will not toil for nothing.”—Isaiah 65:21-23. In time, God’s Kingdom will even restore the peaceful relations that existed in the garden of Eden between animals, and between animals and humans. The Scriptures say: “The wolf will actually reside for a while with the male lamb, and with the kid the leopard itself will lie down, and the calf and the maned young lion and the well-fed animal all together; and a mere little boy will be leader over them.”—Isaiah 11:6-9; Hosea 2:18. Just imagine, in the Paradise earth, all sicknesses and physical infirmities will also be healed! God’s Word assures us: “No resident will say: ‘I am sick.’” (Isaiah 33:24) God’s Word also promises: “He [God] will actually swallow up death forever.”—Isaiah 25:8. How It Is Possible for You This is certainly a wonderful hope, and it is not too good to be true because God always fulfills his promises. (Isaiah 46:9, 10) Of course, there are requirements to be met if we are to live forever in this coming Paradise on earth. What are they? These requirements can be found, in part, in the Tanakh and are emphasized in the Christian Greek Scriptures, which give specific details about the Messiah. These later writings, known to most people as the “New Testament,” were written under the same inspiration as was the Tanakh. The two writings together form the Holy Scriptures, or the Bible. They contain the wonderful promise that God “will wipe out every tear from [people’s] eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”—Revelation 21:4; see also Hosea 13:14. Jehovah’s Witnesses, the authors of this tract, are no part of Christendom or Jewry. Rather, they accept these Holy Scriptures as the only basis for accurate knowledge of God’s will. Jehovah’s Witnesses are diligently working in all parts of the earth to help people learn about Jehovah, the true God, so that they can live forever in peace in his new world.—Micah 4:1-4. Unless otherwise indicated, all Bible quotations are from the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.
How Can You Live Forever?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502018133	How Can You Live Forever? The Bible’s answer The Bible promises: “The person who does what God wants lives forever.” (1 John 2:17, Holy Bible—Easy-to-Read Version) What does God want you to do? Learn about God and his Son, Jesus. In prayer to God, Jesus said: “This means everlasting life, their coming to know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ.” (John 17:3) What is involved in “coming to know” God and Jesus? We can get to know them by studying the Bible and applying its message in our life.a The Bible reveals the thinking of our Creator, Jehovah God, who is the Giver of life. (Acts 17:24, 25) The Bible also tells us about his Son, Jesus, who taught “sayings of everlasting life.”—John 6:67-69. Exercise faith in the ransom sacrifice of Jesus. Jesus came to earth “to minister and to give his life as a ransom.” (Matthew 20:28) Jesus’ ransom sacrifice opened the way for humans to live forever in Paradise on earth.b (Psalm 37:29) Jesus said: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) Note that more is required than simply believing in Jesus. We must ‘exercise faith in him,’ choosing to live in harmony with his teachings and with the will of his Father.—Matthew 7:21; James 2:17. Build a strong friendship with God. God wants us to draw close to him and become his friend. (James 2:23; 4:8) God is eternal. He will never die, and he wants his friends to live forever as well. Through his Word, God expresses what he wants for all who seek him: “May you enjoy life forever.”—Psalm 22:26. Misconceptions About Living Forever Misconception: Human efforts will result in everlasting life. Fact: Although some medical advances promise to increase the human life span, such efforts will not lead to everlasting life. Only God can give us everlasting life, because only he is “the source of life.” (Psalm 36:9) He promises to “swallow up death forever” and grant everlasting life to all faithful humans.—Isaiah 25:8; 1 John 2:25. Misconception: Only people of certain races will live forever. Fact: God does not show favoritism. On the contrary, “in every nation the man who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34, 35) People of all ethnic and cultural backgrounds who obey God can live forever. Misconception: Everlasting life will be boring. Fact: The offer of everlasting life comes from God, who loves us and wants us to be happy. (James 1:17; 1 John 4:8) He knows that in order for us to be happy, we need purposeful work. (Ecclesiastes 3:12) God promises that those who live forever on earth will have satisfying, meaningful work that will benefit them and their loved ones.—Isaiah 65:22, 23. Moreover, those who live forever will continue to learn new things about their Creator and his vast creative works. He made humans with a desire to live forever and to learn about him, though they “will never find out the work that the true God has made from start to finish.” (Ecclesiastes 3:10, 11) Thus, those who live forever will always have interesting things to learn and do. a Jehovah’s Witnesses offer a free Bible study program. For more information, watch the video What Happens at a Bible Study? b See the article “Jesus Saves—How?”
Greatest Man (gt) 1991	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/gt	Chapter 104 God’s Voice Heard a Third Time WHILE at the temple, Jesus has been agonizing over the death that he soon must face. His main concern is how his Father’s reputation will be affected, so he prays: “Father, glorify your name.” At that, a mighty voice comes from the heavens, proclaiming: “I both glorified it and will glorify it again.” The crowd standing around are bewildered. “An angel has spoken to him,” some begin to say. Others claim that it thundered. But, indeed, it is Jehovah God who spoke! This, however, is not the first time God’s voice was heard in connection with Jesus. At Jesus’ baptism, three and a half years earlier, John the Baptizer heard God say of Jesus: “This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved.” Then, sometime after the previous Passover, when Jesus was transfigured before them, James, John, and Peter heard God declare: “This is my Son, the beloved, whom I have approved; listen to him.” And now, for the third time, on Nisan 10, four days before Jesus’ death, God’s voice is again heard by men. But this time Jehovah speaks so that multitudes can hear! Jesus explains: “This voice has occurred, not for my sake, but for your sakes.” It provides proof that Jesus is indeed God’s Son, the promised Messiah. “Now there is a judging of this world,” Jesus continues, “now the ruler of this world will be cast out.” Jesus’ faithful life course, in effect, confirms that Satan the Devil, the ruler of the world, deserves to be “cast out,” executed. Pointing to the consequences of his approaching death, Jesus says: “And yet I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw men of all sorts to me.” His death is in no way a defeat, for by means of it, he will draw others to himself so that they may enjoy everlasting life. But the crowd protests: “We heard from the Law that the Christ remains forever; and how is it you say that the Son of man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of man?” Despite all the evidence, including hearing God’s own voice, most do not believe that Jesus is the true Son of man, the promised Messiah. Yet, as he did six months earlier at the Festival of Tabernacles, Jesus again speaks of himself as “the light” and encourages his listeners: “While you have the light, exercise faith in the light, in order to become sons of light.” After saying these things, Jesus goes off and hides, evidently because his life is in danger. The Jews’ lack of faith in Jesus fulfills the words of Isaiah about the ‘eyes of people being blinded and their hearts being hardened so that they do not turn around to be healed.’ Isaiah saw in vision the heavenly courts of Jehovah, including Jesus in his prehuman glory along with Jehovah. Yet, the Jews, in fulfillment of what Isaiah wrote, stubbornly reject the evidence that this One is their promised Deliverer. On the other hand, many even of the rulers (evidently members of the Jewish high court, the Sanhedrin) actually put faith in Jesus. Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea are two of these rulers. But the rulers, at least for the present, fail to declare their faith, for fear of being expelled from their positions in the synagogue. How much such ones miss out on! Jesus goes on to note: “He that puts faith in me puts faith, not in me only, but in him also that sent me; and he that beholds me beholds also him that sent me. . . . But if anyone hears my sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I came, not to judge the world, but to save the world. . . . The word that I have spoken is what will judge him in the last day.” Jehovah’s love for the world of mankind moved him to send Jesus so that those who put faith in him might be saved. Whether people are saved will be determined by whether they obey the things God instructed Jesus to speak. The judgment will take place “in the last day,” during Christ’s Thousand Year Reign. Jesus concludes by saying: “I have not spoken out of my own impulse, but the Father himself who sent me has given me a commandment as to what to tell and what to speak. Also, I know that his commandment means everlasting life. Therefore the things I speak, just as the Father has told me them, so I speak them.” John 12:28-50; 19:38, 39; Matthew 3:17; 17:5; Isaiah 6:1, 8-10. ▪ On what three occasions was God’s voice heard with regard to Jesus? ▪ How did the prophet Isaiah see Jesus’ glory? ▪ Who are the rulers that put faith in Jesus, but why do they not confess him openly? ▪ What is “the last day,” and on what basis will people be judged then?
YOUNG PEOPLE ASK How Can I Overcome Shyness?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/500600107	YOUNG PEOPLE ASK How Can I Overcome Shyness? The bad news: Shyness can cause you to miss out on rewarding friendships and experiences. The good news: Shyness isn’t always bad. It can help you think before you speak and can make you a better observer and listener. The better news: Shyness is not a permanent trait, so you can control its negative effects. This article will show you how. Turn the light on your fears Action plan What your peers say Turn the light on your fears Shyness can make you dread the very idea of talking to people face-to-face. As a result, you might feel isolated from others, as if you were alone in a dark room. That can be scary. But if you turn the light on your fears, you might see that they are unfounded. Consider three examples. Fear #1: “I don’t know what to talk about.” Fact: People remember less of what you say but more of how you make them feel. You can take control of your fear by developing your skill at listening, being genuinely interested in what others have to say. To think about: What kind of friend do you prefer—a chatterbox who always has something to say or someone who is a good listener? Fear #2: “People will think I’m boring.” Fact: People will form opinions about you whether you are shy or not. You can take control of your fear—and help people form a better opinion of you—if you let them see you for who you are. To think about: If you think everyone is judging you negatively, could you be judging them unfairly by assuming the worst? Fear #3: “I’ll be embarrassed if I say the wrong thing.” Fact: At times, that happens to everyone. You can take control of your fear by viewing blunders as an opportunity to show that you don’t take yourself too seriously. To think about: Don’t you enjoy being with people who can admit that they are not perfect? Did you know? Some people think they are not shy because they text a lot. But genuine friendships are easier to form with people when you have in-person conversation. Psychologist and technology expert Sherry Turkle writes: “It is when we see each other’s faces and hear each other’s voices that we become most human to each other.”a Once you take control of your fears, you may find that face-to-face conversation is not as frightening as it once seemed Action plan Avoid comparisons. You don’t have to become an extrovert. Instead, your goal can be to bring your shyness under control so that you don’t miss out on rewarding friendships and experiences. “Conversations don’t have to be long and drawn out, and you don’t have to be the life of the party. Just introduce yourself to someone new, or ask a few simple questions.”—Alicia. Bible principle: “Let each one examine his own actions, and then he will have cause for rejoicing in regard to himself alone, and not in comparison with the other person.”—Galatians 6:4. Be observant. Watch sociable people and notice how they converse with others. What works for them? What doesn’t work so well? Which desirable skills of theirs could you develop? “Observe and learn from people who make friends easily. Watch how they act and what they say when they meet someone for the first time.”—Aaron. Bible principle: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens his friend.”—Proverbs 27:17. Ask questions. People usually like to give their viewpoint on things, so asking questions is a good way to start a conversation with them. It also puts less attention on you. “Preparing beforehand can help reduce your anxiety. You can even think of a few topics or questions before a social event so that meeting new people will be less stressful.”—Alana. Bible principle: “Look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.”—Philippians 2:4. a From the book Reclaiming Conversation. What your peers say “Start with little things, like a smile and a ‘hello,’ and you’ll be surprised by how much people reciprocate and the confidence you will gain for the next time you need to talk with someone.”—Kelsey. “Everyone is interesting in some way and has something of value to offer to others. Unless you open up once in a while, no one will benefit from the valuable qualities that you have.”—Robin. “If you make people feel comfortable, they will usually like you, even if you tend to be shy. It also helps to give a genuine smile. And to be genuine, you need to view people in a positive light.”—Veronica.
The New Study Edition of The Watchtower	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2008041	The New Study Edition of The Watchtower THE magazine that you are reading is the first issue of the study edition of The Watchtower. We would like to explain some of the features of the new format of this magazine. The study edition is published for Jehovah’s Witnesses and progressive Bible students. It will appear once a month and will contain either four or five study articles. The schedule for considering these study articles is printed on the cover of the magazine. Unlike the public edition of The Watchtower, the study edition will not have different cover illustrations for each issue, since it will not be offered in the field ministry. On page 2 of the magazine, you will find a very helpful short summary of the purpose of each study article or series as well as a list of the secondary articles. Watchtower Study conductors will find that feature very helpful as they prepare for a meaningful discussion of the articles at the congregation meeting. You will notice that the study articles are a little shorter than they were previously. As a result, more time is allowed for the consideration of key scriptures during the Watchtower Study. We warmly encourage you to look up all the cited scriptures each week. Some cited scriptures are marked “read” and should be read and discussed during the Watchtower Study. Other scriptures may also be read as time allows. In some articles, you may find scriptures marked “compare.” Since such scriptures do not directly prove the main points in the paragraph, they will usually not be read at the congregation meeting. Still, “compare” scriptures do contain interesting supplementary information, or they may provide indirect support for the points under discussion. We encourage you to check them while preparing for the Watchtower Study. Perhaps you will be able to refer to them in your comments. The annual report will no longer appear in The Watchtower. Starting in 2008, it will appear as an insert in Our Kingdom Ministry as well as in the Yearbook. However, as indicated above, the study edition does include secondary articles. Although many of these will not be discussed at a congregation meeting, you are encouraged to read them carefully. They too contain spiritual food from “the faithful and discreet slave.”—Matt. 24:45-47. Finally, the study edition and the public edition of The Watchtower are not two different magazines. They are both The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom. They have on page 2 identical paragraphs explaining the purpose of The Watchtower. Both will be included in the annual bound volume. And material from both will be found in the “Do You Remember?” feature, which will be published in the study edition. Since 1879, through periods of war, economic hardship, and persecution, The Watchtower has faithfully proclaimed truths about God’s Kingdom. We pray that with Jehovah’s blessing, it will continue to do so in its new format. And we pray that Jehovah will bless you, the reader, as you make good use of the new study edition of The Watchtower.
YOUNG PEOPLE ASK Is Homosexuality Wrong?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016235	YOUNG PEOPLE ASK Is Homosexuality Wrong? “Growing up, one of the most difficult things I had to deal with was my attraction to others of the same sex. I used to think it was just a phase, but those feelings plague me still.”—David, 23. David is a Christian who wants to please God. Can he do that while feeling attracted to those of the same sex? How does God really feel about homosexuality? What does the Bible say? Does that mean . . . ? But what if . . . ? What does the Bible say? Attitudes about homosexuality may vary from one culture to the next or from one time period to another. But Christians aren’t governed by popular opinion or “carried here and there by every wind of teaching.” (Ephesians 4:14) Instead, they base their view of homosexual conduct (and any other kind of conduct, for that matter) on the standards set forth in the Bible. The Bible’s standard regarding homosexual acts is clear. God’s Word says: “You must not lie down with a male in the same way that you lie down with a woman.”—Leviticus 18:22. “God, in keeping with the desires of their hearts, . . . gave them over to uncontrolled sexual passion, for their females changed the natural use of themselves into one contrary to nature.”—Romans 1:24, 26. “Do not be misled. Those who are sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, men who submit to homosexual acts, men who practice homosexuality, thieves, greedy people, drunkards, revilers, and extortioners will not inherit God’s Kingdom.”—1 Corinthians 6:9, 10. In reality, God’s standards apply to all people, whether they have homosexual desires or heterosexual desires. The fact is, everyone must exercise self-restraint when it comes to urges to engage in conduct that displeases God.—Colossians 3:5. Does that mean . . . ? Does that mean the Bible promotes hatred of gays? No. In fact, the Bible doesn’t promote hatred of anyone—gay or straight. Rather, it tells us to “pursue peace with all people,” regardless of their lifestyle. (Hebrews 12:14) So it’s wrong to engage in bullying, hate crimes, or any other type of mistreatment of homosexuals. Does that mean that Christians should oppose laws that allow same-sex marriage? The Bible shows that God’s standard for marriage calls for the union of one man and one woman. (Matthew 19:4-6) However, discussions of human laws on same-sex marriage relate to a political issue, not a moral one. The Bible tells Christians to remain politically neutral. (John 18:36) Therefore, they neither advocate nor oppose governmental laws involving same-sex marriage or homosexual conduct. But what if . . . ? But what if someone currently practices homosexuality? Can that person change? Yes. In fact, some in the first century did so! After stating that those who practice homosexuality will not inherit God’s Kingdom, the Bible says: “That is what some of you were.”—1 Corinthians 6:11. Does that mean those who stopped practicing homosexuality no longer felt any inclination toward their former lifestyle? No. The Bible says: “Clothe yourselves with the new personality, which through accurate knowledge is being made new.” (Colossians 3:10) Change is an ongoing process. But what if someone who wants to follow God’s standard still has homosexual urges? As with any urge, a person can choose not to nurture or act on those urges. How? The Bible says: “Keep walking by spirit and you will carry out no fleshly desire at all.”—Galatians 5:16. Notice that the verse doesn’t say that the person will have no fleshly desire. Instead, armed with a good spiritual routine of Bible study and prayer, he or she will have the strength to resist those desires. David, mentioned at the outset, found that to be true—especially after he confided in his Christian parents about his struggle. “It was a tremendous burden off my shoulders,” he says, “and I probably would have enjoyed my teen years a lot more if I had talked to them sooner.” In the end, we are happier when we conform to Jehovah’s standards. We are convinced that they “are righteous, causing the heart to rejoice,” and that “in keeping them, there is a large reward.”—Psalm 19:8, 11.
What Does the Bible Say About Loving Yourself?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502018103	What Does the Bible Say About Loving Yourself? The Bible’s answer The Bible indicates that it is proper, even necessary, to love yourself to a reasonable degree. Such love includes caring for yourself, respecting yourself, and having a sense of self-worth. (Matthew 10:31) Rather than glorifying selfishness, the Bible puts self-love in its rightful place. Whom should we love first? Love for God should come first in our hearts. The Bible teaches that the greatest commandment is: “You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart.”—Mark 12:28-30; Deuteronomy 6:5. The second greatest commandment is: “You must love your neighbor as yourself.”—Mark 12:31; Leviticus 19:18. Although the Bible does not include a specific command to love yourself, the command to “love your neighbor as yourself” indicates that a reasonable degree of self-love and self-respect is normal and beneficial. Whom did Jesus love first? Jesus showed how to balance love for God, love for neighbor, and love for self, and he instructed his disciples to follow his example.—John 13:34, 35. He loved Jehovah God first and devoted himself to accomplishing His work. “For the world to know that I love the Father,” he said, “I am doing just as the Father has commanded me to do.”—John 14:31. Jesus loved his neighbor, showing this by caring for the needs of others even to the point of giving his own life.—Matthew 20:28. He showed a reasonable love for himself by taking time to rest, eat, and enjoy association with his followers and potential disciples.—Mark 6:31, 32; Luke 5:29; John 2:1, 2; 12:2. Will loving others ahead of yourself reduce your happiness or self-respect? No, because we are created in the image of God, whose primary quality is unselfish love. (Genesis 1:27; 1 John 4:8) This means that we are designed to show love for others. Self-love has its place, yet we are happiest when we love God above all and focus on doing good things for others. As the Bible says, “there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”—Acts 20:35. Today a number of people claim that happiness comes from putting yourself first. For them, “love thyself” has replaced “love thy neighbor.” However, modern experience confirms that improved health and happiness come to those who follow the Bible’s wise advice: “Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that of the other person.”—1 Corinthians 10:24.
Man’s Salvation (sl) 1975	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/sl	Chapter 7 Requirements for Entering the Spiritual Paradise 1, 2. To enter the spiritual paradise, what requirements, set out in Isaiah 55:6, 7, must be met? THE way into the spiritual paradise is still open! The invitation to enter and enjoy it is still sounding out world wide! What does it call for if a hearer of the invitation desires to enter? The requirements are beautifully set out in the further words of the inspired prophecy of Isaiah chapter fifty-five: 2 “Search for Jehovah, you people, while he may be found. Call to him while he proves to be near. Let the wicked man leave his way, and the harmful man his thoughts; and let him return to Jehovah, who will have mercy upon him, and to our God, for he will forgive in a large way.”—Isaiah 55:6, 7. 3. (a) Why is now the time to “search for Jehovah”? (b) In what sense is he “near”? 3 Since we have been living in the “time of the end” of this worldly system of things since the year 1914 C.E., the time that is left during which Jehovah may be found in a favorable way is by now very short. So now is the favorable time in which to search for him. A person does not have to go far in this search in order to find him. He is still near, within reach of sincere searchers for him. So now is also the time to call to him. He is not beyond hearing distance. Now, before “the great and fear-inspiring day of Jehovah,” is when the reassuring words apply: “It must occur that everyone who calls on the name of Jehovah will get away safe.”—Joel 2:31, 32; Romans 10:13. 4. (a) Explain the requirement, “let the wicked man leave his way.” (b) What is involved in leaving ‘harmful thoughts,’ and why is it important to do so? 4 We are told what to do in this searching for Jehovah and in order to call upon his name. Attention must be given to one’s ways of life and also to one’s thinking, which has much to do with the condition of one’s heart. This is indicated in the exhortation: “Let the wicked man leave his way, and the harmful man his thoughts; and let him return to Jehovah.” (Isaiah 55:7) Certainly, if a man who was wicked desired to search for Jehovah and find him and call upon him with acceptance, he would have to leave his way that is wicked. Jehovah hates wickedness. The wicked man would also be harmful, and so his thoughts would be of doing harm to others. In order, then, to search for Jehovah, who is a God of benevolence, he would have to change his thoughts from harmful intents to helpful, beneficial thinking. He must take seriously what God says in Proverbs 21:27: “The sacrifice of the wicked ones is something detestable. How much more so when one brings it along with loose conduct.” Ways and thoughts approved by the God of righteousness are a requirement for gaining entrance to the spiritual paradise of His worshipers and servants. 5. (a) How did the requirement, “Let him return to Jehovah,” apply to the ancient Jewish exiles? (b) What prospect lay before those who heeded that requirement? 5 Concerning the wicked and harmful man, it is said: “And let him return to Jehovah.” This signifies that the wicked and harmful man had got away from Jehovah and had turned bad. He had once had good, peaceful, intimate relationship with Jehovah. This was the way that it had been with ancient Israel down to the time of their exile in Babylon, which the prophet Isaiah had predicted earlier in his prophecy. So, in its first and direct application, the exhortation, “Let him return to Jehovah,” was addressed to the Jewish exiles in Babylon. They had to repent of their misconduct and misdeeds that had resulted in the desolation of their homeland and their exile in pagan Babylonia. Their homeland was to lie desolate for a limited time, seventy years, and then was to be reoccupied by a faithful, God-fearing remnant of Jews released from Babylon. More and more as the fixed time for the liberation from Babylon drew near, it would become advisable, yes, urgent, for exiled Jews to prepare themselves to be among those privileged to return to their homeland and transform it into a paradise. 6, 7. (a) What action did the prophet Daniel take in harmony with Isaiah 55:7, and why was such action appropriate? (b) In what year did the Jewish remnant and their servants return to their homeland? 6 The aged prophet Daniel, who had been an exile in Babylon even eleven years before the desolation of Jerusalem and Judah, took to heart the exhortation of Isaiah 55:7. Ancient Babylon on the Euphrates River had just fallen to the Persian conqueror, Cyrus the Great, which was in 539 B.C.E. Cyrus’ associate, Darius the Mede, was now ruling as temporary king over Babylon. “In the first year of his reigning,” says Daniel, “I myself, Daniel, discerned by the books the number of the years concerning which the word of Jehovah had occurred to Jeremiah the prophet, for fulfilling the devastations of Jerusalem, namely, seventy years. And I proceeded to set my face to Jehovah the true God, in order to seek him with prayer and with entreaties, with fasting and sackcloth and ashes. And I began to pray to Jehovah my God and to make confession.” (Daniel 9:1-4) In his prayer Daniel confessed to being a member of the rebellious nation and his bearing a share in its iniquity and disobedience to God. 7 Personally, Daniel had not been wicked in his way and harmful in his thoughts, and so his prayer in behalf of the exiled Jews found favor in God’s eyes. The aged Daniel, who was retained in the service of King Darius and then King Cyrus, did not return to the land of Judah, but he had the unspeakable joy of seeing a repentant, reformed Jewish remnant, together with thousands of non-Jewish servants of theirs, return to the homeland to rebuild Jerusalem and its temple. This occurred at the end of the seventy years of desolation in 537 B.C.E. 8. How was the situation that confronted the remnant of spiritual Israel at the end of World War I similar to that of the natural Jews near the end of their period of exile in Babylon? 8 In similar fashion, the modern-day remnant of spiritual Israel had to do some reforming as to their way and thoughts as World War I ended on November 11, 1918, and they entered still alive on earth into the postwar period. Their exile from God’s full favor in Babylon the Great’s realm was about to end, and it became the proper time for them to think about their failings and shortcomings with regard to God’s worship and service. They had come under a community responsibility because of the bloodshed and violence of World War I. They needed to search for Jehovah and to call upon His name in prayer. In harmony with this Godward movement of theirs, the prophetic exhortation applied to them: “Let the wicked man leave his way, and the harmful man his thoughts; and let him return to Jehovah.”—Isaiah 55:7. 9. (a) In their searching for Jehovah, what action did the remnant of spiritual Israel take? (b) For how long were they obliged to serve God, and what work needed to be done? 9 In their search, accompanied by calling upon the divine name in prayer, the remnant of spiritual Israel made a reexamination of the Holy Scriptures, now that things had turned out in a manner different from the way that they had understood Bible prophecies. They needed to readjust their thinking and their way to the new and unexpected situation that now opened up before them. They had been “consecrated” to their God, not to a certain date such as 1914 or 1918 C.E., but for eternity. This obliged them to continue serving the true God as long as he preserved them alive on earth. Through His written Word and His organization, He revealed to the remnant that there was a highly important work for them to do on earth in connection with His newly born Messianic kingdom. So there was every reason for them to “return to Jehovah.” But would such an endeavor on their part be in vain, in view of their past failings? 10. In view of their past failings, did they have any good reason to believe that God would accept them? 10 Just like the exiled Jews in ancient Babylon, the remnant of spiritual Israel had every reason to take heart and be of good courage in their Godward movement. Why? Because of these reassuring words of Isaiah 55:7: “And let him return to Jehovah, who will have mercy upon him, and to our God, for he will forgive in a large way.” THE LARGENESS OF GOD’S WAY OF FORGIVENESS 11. How was it true that God forgave the exiles of natural Israel “in a large way”? 11 There is no stinginess about God’s forgiveness. His abundant mercy makes him forgiving “in a large way.” He expressed his forgiveness toward the exiled Jews in Babylon by performing a miracle of mercy toward them. He broke open the prison in which imperial Babylon had been holding them captive and he provided the way for them to return to their homeland that had lain desolate without man or domestic animal for seven decades! This amazed the ancient nations roundabout that observed this, and they could ascribe this miracle only to the God of Israel. “At that time they proceeded to say among the nations: ‘Jehovah has done a great thing in what he has done with them.’ Jehovah has done a great thing in what he has done with us. We have become joyful. Do gather back, O Jehovah, our company of captives, like stream beds in the Negeb [parched land].” (Psalm 126:2-4) In the face of their past sins and transgressions, the exiled Jews did not deserve this, but God was forgiving them “in a large way” because of their sincere repentance. 12. What gave evidence that Jehovah likewise restored the remnant of spiritual Israel to his favor? 12 The like was true in the case of the modern-day remnant of spiritual Israel. Because of their heartfelt repentance God freed them from the power of Babylon the Great by means of his Greater Cyrus, Jesus Christ the King, and brought them back to their rightful spiritual estate on earth, the estate of divine favor and peaceful relations. He resumed using them in the proclaiming of the message of the hour, “this good news of the kingdom,” world wide. Thus he reintroduced them upon the stage of fearless public activity, and the hostile nations became aware that Jehovah God had done something great for them, something that proved that he had restored them to his favor and service. 13. Through his prophet Isaiah, how does Jehovah explain his reason for displaying such outstanding mercy? 13 These acts of deliverance, the one from ancient Babylon and the other from her modern-day counterpart, were things unimaginable to the human mind. All of this was so contrary to imperfect human thinking. It was so contrary to human ways of dealing with people in this present wicked system of things. Why did the God against whom such offense had been committed show such mercy and forgive in so large a way? He explains, as his prophecy through Isaiah goes on to say: “‘For the thoughts of you people are not my thoughts, nor are my ways your ways,’ is the utterance of Jehovah. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. For just as the pouring rain descends, and the snow, from the heavens and does not return to that place, unless it actually saturates the earth and makes it produce and sprout, and seed is actually given to the sower and bread to the eater, so my word that goes forth from my mouth will prove to be. It will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it.’”—Isaiah 55:8-11. 14. Why is it not safe to presume upon God’s mercy? 14 Our thoughts and ways can never be as high as those of God the Creator, and especially so during our sinful imperfection. And so there is no comparison between our thoughts and ways and His. However, we cannot for that reason presume upon his mercy. We cannot, with immunity, become like those hypocritical men described in Jude 4, “ungodly men, turning the undeserved kindness of our God into an excuse for loose conduct and proving false to our only Owner and Lord, Jesus Christ.” We cannot safely presume upon the magnanimity of God. We deserve nothing from him, and we have no right to demand anything from him. We cannot go beyond what his given word allows. 15. (a) With what record is God’s display of mercy in full harmony? (b) How is God’s stated word like the rain and snow from heaven? 15 Whatever it is that Jehovah God has done in such mercy to us, he has previously given his word for it in writing in his prophecies of the Holy Bible. He means what he says, and he says what he purposes to do. So his given word is reliable, as reliable as the rain and the snow from heaven are in accomplishing the divine purpose for which they are deposited upon the earth. For that reason his stated word will not boomerang at him because of having accomplished no results. If he has given his word, then he will see to it that it is carried out by means of his almighty spirit and by means of his chosen servants. What he pleases or delights in will be done without fail according to his word. He has sent forth his word on a mission, and it will not prove to be mere empty talk. It will certainly have success in the stated mission for which he sent it. 16. In his dealings with natural Israel and with spiritual Israel, how did Jehovah prove himself to be “the God of truth”? 16 So God’s own honor is at stake in connection with his word. He cannot let it come short of its purpose, for that would mean that he is not almighty. It would mean that he is not true and is not “the God of truth.” (Psalm 31:5) His word did not fail when it came to delivering the exiled Israelites from imperial Babylon and restoring the remnant of them to their desolated homeland right on time. Nor did his word return to him without results in modern times when it came to liberating the remnant of spiritual Israel from the power of Babylon the Great and restoring them to his favor and service on earth from 1919 C.E. onward. Many other historic examples, ancient and modern, could be cited to prove the truth of his word as expressed in Isaiah 55:10, 11. PROPHECY OF A PARADISE 17. After having emphasized the absolute certainty of the fulfillment of his word, what does Jehovah promise, as recorded in Isaiah 55:12, 13? 17 What Jehovah God has thus said about the absolute certainty that his word will come true, strengthens us to accept with confidence the glowing prophecy now forthcoming. He addresses it to those who search for him and call upon his name and return to him in repentance and righteousness. (Isaiah 55:6, 7) Revealing how elevated his thoughts and ways are above those of imperfect, mortal man, he continues on to say: “For with rejoicing you people will go forth, and with peace you will be brought in. The mountains and the hills themselves will become cheerful before you with a joyful outcry, and the very trees of the field will all clap their hands. Instead of the thicket of thorns the juniper tree will come up. Instead of the stinging nettle the myrtle tree will come up. And it must become for Jehovah something famous, a sign to time indefinite that will not be cut off.”—Isaiah 55:12, 13, NW; Young; The New American Bible; Leeser. 18, 19. (a) What grand deliverance is there being described? (b) Who was to do the “rejoicing,” and how does Psalm 126:1, 2 delightfully describe their feelings? 18 Do not those prophetic words beautifully describe a thrilling deliverance of an exiled people and a homecoming with a joyful welcome! “For,” that is, in verification of what was just said by Jehovah about his exalted thoughts and ways toward his people, “with rejoicing you people will go forth.” It was from the land of Babylon that they were to be brought out, a liberated people. This deliverance was to be with rejoicing, not on the part of the Gentile nations in any show of sympathy toward Jehovah’s exiled people, but on the part of His people whom He was delivering in such a remarkable way, so contrary to what the Gentile nations expected or desired. The joyful emotion of the Israelite remnant and their devoted companions at such a marvelous release from pagan Babylon is caught up and echoed in the opening words of Psalm 126: 19 “When Jehovah gathered back the captive ones of Zion, we became like those who were dreaming. At that time our mouth came to be filled with laughter, and our tongue with a joyful cry. At that time they proceeded to say among the nations: ‘Jehovah has done a great thing in what he has done with them.’”—Psalm 126:1, 2; 2 Chronicles 36:20-23. 20, 21. In the deliverance that they experienced in 537 B.C.E., how could faithful Jews see powerful evidence that Jehovah had vindicated the truthfulness of his word? 20 When the deliverance came in the year 537 B.C.E., the faithful Jewish remnant could turn to the inspired prophecy of Isaiah 44:28 through 45:3, written two centuries previously, and could see how their God had vindicated his Word by using his anointed servant, Cyrus the Persian, in liberating them. The historic record of Ezra 1:1-5 matches up with Isaiah’s prophecy by reporting: 21 “In the first year of Cyrus the king of Persia, that Jehovah’s word from the mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished, Jehovah roused the spirit of Cyrus the king of Persia so that he caused a cry to pass through all his realm, and also in writing, saying: ‘This is what Cyrus the king of Persia has said, “All the kingdoms of the earth Jehovah the God of the heavens has given me, and he himself has commissioned me to build him a house in Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever there is among you of all his people, may his God prove to be with him. So let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and rebuild the house of Jehovah the God of Israel—he is the true God—which was in Jerusalem. As for anyone that is left from all the places where he is residing as an alien, let the men of his place assist him with silver and with gold and with goods and with domestic animals along with the voluntary offering for the house of the true God, which was in Jerusalem.”’ Then the heads of the fathers of Judah and of Benjamin and the priests and the Levites rose up, even everyone whose spirit the true God had roused, to go up and rebuild the house of Jehovah, which was in Jerusalem.” 22. Why was it not in any disorderly flight that the Jews left Babylon? 22 Consequently it was in no panic or disorderly flight that the Jewish remnant and their companions left Babylon in the year 537 B.C.E. It could not be that way if they were to go out “with rejoicing,” just as it had been prophesied. They went out in orderly fashion, with no shrieks of terror at the sight of pursuers. They went out with full confidence that the God who had procured their release would go before them to lead them in the way and that he would protect them from the rear. To this effect he had given them the promise: “Turn away, turn away, get out of there, touch nothing unclean; get out from the midst of her, keep yourselves clean, you who are carrying the utensils of Jehovah. For you people will get out in no panic, and you will go in no flight. For Jehovah will be going even before you, and the God of Israel will be your rear guard.”—Isaiah 52:11, 12. 23. (a) What reason did they have for confidence that they would safely reach their destination? (b) By when were they back in their homeland, and how does this give evidence that Jehovah’s word does not return to him without results? 23 Peacefully, with good organization among themselves, they left ancient Babylon, and peacefully, under divine protection and guidance, they would reach their destination. That was what the divine infallible word assured them: “For with rejoicing you people will go forth, and with peace you will be brought in.” (Isaiah 55:12) They would be “brought in” upon their homeland that had lain desolate for seventy years. As Rabbi Leeser’s translation of the Hebrew text reads: “For in joy shall ye go out, and in peace shall ye be brought home.” Or, as The New American Bible words it: “Yes, in joy you shall depart, in peace you shall be brought back.” It proved to be even that way, and, in the seventh month (Tishri) of the year 537 B.C.E., the returned Jewish remnant and their loyal companions had taken up residence on their city sites, and they began restoring the worship of their God in their homeland. (Ezra 2:68 through 3:2) Just as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and carry out God’s purpose, so Jehovah’s prophetic word did not return to him without results to its credit.—Isaiah 55:10, 11. 24, 25. (a) On arrival at their destination, did the former exiles find that their homeland was a paradise? (b) What had God promised would take place in due time after they went to work? 24 The route that the Jewish remnant and their God-fearing companions took out of Babylon was not through a paradise, nor did the countryside along the way miraculously turn into a paradise before them to cheer them along during the journey of several months. Neither did their long-desolate, thicket-overgrown homeland suddenly take on a paradisaic appearance before their eyes. But what were their prospects according to God’s promise after they were replanted upon their beloved native land and diligently went to work, without expecting any direct miracles of transformation? Ah, regarding this their high priest Jeshua the son of Jehozadak or their appointed governor Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel could read to them the stimulating, encouraging words of Isaiah 55:12, 13: 25 “The mountains and the hills themselves will become cheerful before you with a joyful outcry, and the very trees of the field will all clap their hands. Instead of the thicket of thorns the juniper tree will come up. Instead of the stinging nettle the myrtle tree will come up. And it must become for Jehovah something famous, a sign to time indefinite that will not be cut off.”—See Haggai 1:1. 26. As indicated in the prophecy, to whom would go the credit for the transformation of the land, and why appropriately so? 26 A lovely transformation of the long-untended, uncultivated land there would be indeed! This, however, would not occur without first the zealous, earnest work on the part of the repatriated people. Yet, to Jehovah should and would go the credit for the marvelous transformation, for He was the One that would bless their sincere endeavors. His blessing upon their efforts was the necessary thing, and his blessing would attend them provided that they put the worship of Him in the first place and carried out the purpose for which He had released them from oppressive Babylon and had restored them to their beloved homeland. 27. What gave evidence that the land of Judah, during its years of desolation, had been like cursed ground? 27 Doubtless on their arrival back on the land thickets of thorns abounded, and stinging nettles flourished on the long-neglected land. Such plants had not been an outstanding, inviting feature of man’s original paradise. Rather, when God sentenced the first man and woman as sinners to life outside the Garden of Eden, he said to the man: “Cursed is the ground on your account. In pain you will eat its produce all the days of your life. And thorns and thistles it will grow for you.” (Genesis 3:17, 18) So the land of Judah, during its seventy years of desolation, had become like cursed ground: “If it produces thorns and thistles, it is rejected and is near to being cursed; and it ends up with being burned.”—Hebrews 6:8; compare Deuteronomy 28:15-18; Isaiah 24:6. “A SIGN TO TIME INDEFINITE” 28. How does the language employed in the portion of Isaiah 55:13 here quoted reflect a restoration of God’s blessing upon his people? 28 Look, now, to the evidence of the restoring of God’s blessing upon his worshipful people who had searched for him and who had called upon his name in repentance and with righteous fruit that befits repentance! “Instead of the thicket of thorns the juniper tree will come up. Instead of the stinging nettle the myrtle tree will come up.” (Isaiah 55:13) Instead of the low prickly plants to be shunned, there come up the evergreen trees, like the myrtle and the juniper that grows up to a height of sixty-five feet. There the birds of the heavens, even the stork, can make their homes. (Psalm 104:16, 17) From the myrtle tree the restored Israelites could take leafy branches and build booths for themselves when celebrating the festival of the booths (or, tabernacles) during the third week of the lunar month of Tishri. (Nehemiah 8:15, 16; Zechariah 1:8-11) What a refreshing, eye-pleasing change from prickly, stinging plants to evergreen trees like the juniper and the myrtle! 29. Explain the meaning of the promise: “the very trees of the field will all clap their hands” and “the mountains and the hills themselves will become cheerful before you with a joyful outcry.” 29 There were other trees to adorn the reworked land. Why, “the very trees of the field will all clap their hands.” They will applaud their heavenly Creator, who makes them grow. They, together with other verdure studded with wild flowers, will clothe the slopes of the mountains and the hills. The appearance of these heights of the land of Judah will take on cheerfulness. They will tell a message of praise to God, and it will be as if they had become vocal “with a joyful outcry.” The natural environment takes on the look of happiness, reflecting the happiness of God over the restoration of his people to freedom of worship at Jerusalem and throughout all the land of Judah. (Isaiah 55:12) How could the occupants of this transformed land keep from being cheerful themselves and breaking forth in outcries of thanksgiving and praise to Him? 30, 31. (a) With what would the appearance of the reoccupied land move a person to compare it? (b) What had God inspired Ezekiel to prophesy concerning just such a thing? 30 The beauty that was to crown the reoccupied land could not do otherwise than stir up comparisons of it with the Garden of Eden, man’s original paradise home. Observers of the beautification of the once-desolate land would now make such comparisons. Such a thing was foretold in the prophecy that God inspired Ezekiel to utter after Jerusalem and its temple were destroyed in 607 B.C.E. and the land of Judah began to lie desolate. 31 “This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah has said, ‘In the day of my cleansing you from all your errors I will also cause the cities to be inhabited, and the devastated places must be rebuilt. And the desolated land itself will be cultivated, whereas it had become a desolate waste before the eyes of every passerby. And people will certainly say: “That land yonder which was laid desolate has become like the garden of Eden, and the cities that were a waste and that were laid desolate and that were torn down are fortified; they have become inhabited.” And the nations that will be left remaining round about you will have to know that I myself, Jehovah, have built the things torn down, I have planted what has been laid desolate. I myself, Jehovah, have spoken and I have done it.’”—Ezekiel 36:33-36. 32. How was God’s own name, his reputation, involved in what was happening with the people of Israel? 32 Nobody could have brought all this reversal of matters in behalf of the internationally hated and exiled nation of Israel but their God, who was keeping his covenant with them. So, for bringing it about in accordance with his promise, he had made himself famous throughout the earth. His name, his fame, his renown, was at stake in this vital matter, for the people that were involved in this turn of events were the people called by his own name. What befell them reflected upon his name. The wrong conclusions that the Gentile nations had drawn from the way that he chastised and disciplined his covenant people had to be corrected. This would affect the view that the non-Jewish nations took of him as a god. In self-respect and for his own honor he needed to prove to all nations that he was the true, reliable, word-keeping God! 33. (a) What was his primary purpose in bringing his people Israel back to their land? (b) What was it that made it possible to convert that land into a paradise? 33 Not primarily for the sake of his covenant people Israel, who had brought his name into reproach among the nations, but for his own name’s sake, he freed them from ancient Babylon and brought them back to the land to which he had given a sabbath period of seventy years. (Leviticus 26:41-45; 2 Chronicles 36:20, 21) When this sabbath period was over, in 537 B.C.E., then he restored the rightful cultivators of it. By his blessing upon them, he transformed it into a beauteous land, whose appearance approached that of the Paradise of Pleasure, the Garden of Eden. This had great significance. There was a purpose behind it. 34. What was the purpose behind this, as stated in Isaiah 55:13? 34 God makes known the motive behind this, he himself saying: “And it must become for Jehovah something famous [literally, for a name, Young], a sign to time indefinite that will not be cut off.” (Isaiah 55:13) This clothing of the long-desolate land with paradisaic loveliness won begrudged acknowledgment from the observing Gentile nations and raised their respect for him. 35. In understanding the “sign” referred to in Isaiah 55:13, what must be remembered about the land and its inhabitants? 35 As the land stood there, reclaimed and glorified, it was a “sign” of something highly important. It must be remembered that, first of all, it was a God-given land, for Jehovah had given it to his chosen people in the fifteenth century B.C.E., in fulfillment of his promise made to their forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (or, Israel). Then, because of the persistent disobedience and unfaithfulness of his people, he had, as it were, turned the land upside down like a pot and emptied it of its inhabitants, exiling them to the land of Babylon and letting the polluted land lie desolate in sabbath keeping for seventy years. (Isaiah 24:1-6; 2 Kings 21:13) And now he had caused the rebirth of a populous land and also brought about the rebirth of a nation by restoring his long-exiled people to their God-given estate. In whose honor, then, would the transformation of the land to a paradise be a “sign”? 36. (a) How was the transformation of the land to a paradise a “sign” that honored Jehovah? (b) What has made it a “sign to time indefinite”? 36 By the mouth of his prophet Isaiah, Jehovah himself gives the true answer, saying: “And this will make Yahweh famous, a sign for ever, ineffaceable.” (Isaiah 55:13, The Jerusalem Bible) Or, “All this shall win the LORD a great name, imperishable, a sign for all time.” (The New English Bible) In His case it disproved that “God is dead.” His marvelous works with respect to the land proved that He is a living God, and that the prophecies given over his name Jehovah are true. Great and glorious was the name that he thus made for himself. And the paradise-like, repopulated land of Judah was a “sign” of his Godship, of his universal sovereignty, of his almightiness, of his faithfulness, and of his heaven-high mercy to repentant people who were in a covenant with him. This became a “sign to time indefinite,” even till now; it is a sign that has not been “cut off,” even after the Roman armies destroyed Jerusalem and laid the land of Judea waste in the year 70 of our Common Era. Why not? Because the record of God’s carrying out of his prophecy has been put in the imperishable record of the Bible. 37. (a) With what people do we find a modern-day counterpart for that “sign”? (b) At the time of their deliverance from Babylon the Great, what was the condition of their symbolic land? 37 Because this is an imperishable, ineffaceable sign, one “to time indefinite,” we look for a modern-day counterpart of it. To fit the ancient pattern, this would involve the modern-time remnant of spiritual Israel, who are in the “new covenant” through the Greater Mediator, Jesus Christ. Modern history confirms that this remnant was delivered from Babylon the Great, the world empire of false religion, in the spring of the year 1919 C.E. Their religious or spiritual estate on earth had been rendered quite desolate by the depredations committed upon them and their working organization by Babylon the Great and her political, military and judicial patronizers. Their symbolic land, their spiritual estate, had, as it were, become forbidding because things that were like thickets of thorns and stinging nettles marred the looks of it. It did not present an inviting, attractive appearance that would draw religiously inclined people to take part with these worshipers of Jehovah God in their beliefs and activities. 38. When Jehovah opened the way for their return, how did the remnant of spiritual Israel respond? 38 Nevertheless, when their living God opened the way for them, it was “with rejoicing” that the remnant of spiritual Israel did “go forth” from bondage to Babylon the Great. They were filled with hope, seeing the religious possibilities of the future although realizing that it would require courage to take advantage of them in the face of a hostile world. Global warfare had ended and a patched-up peace had come in, and so it was “with peace” that they were “brought in” upon their rightful spiritual estate, their restoration to God’s favor, their reconciliation with him, their becoming approved again for his service as ambassadors of his now established Messianic kingdom. (2 Corinthians 5:20) They reorganized for the work ahead that had been foretold by Jesus Christ for the “conclusion of the system of things,” namely: “This good news of the kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations; and then the end will come.” They began clearing out the things that were objectionable and hindersome to true worship of God.—Matthew 24:3, 14. 39. How has a worldwide spiritual paradise been produced for the habitation of God’s people in modern times? 39 Faithful to his written promises and consistent with the ancient prototype, Jehovah blessed the efforts of the restored remnant of spiritual Israelites. A spiritual paradise has resulted, that is a worldwide marvel today. It is as if the mountains and hills of their spiritual estate had become cheerful before them with a joyful outcry, and as if the trees of Christian fruitfulness were clapping their hands. Figuratively, the thornbush thickets and the stinging nettle have been replaced by beautiful juniper and myrtle evergreens. Its appearance of being cursed by God has vanished! It has become a habitable place for the true Christians, who really follow the example of Jehovah’s anointed Servant, Jesus Christ. There are also hundreds of thousands of righteously inclined people who were searching for Jehovah, the God of the restored remnant of spiritual Israel. These have become the loyal companions of the faithful anointed remnant. 40. How has the beautified estate of the spiritual remnant become a “sign” that honors Jehovah, and that is not “cut off”? 40 This remarkable transformation in the spiritual estate of the remnant has resulted in Jehovah’s becoming famous throughout the earth. God’s personal name has become known around the globe. The revived, beautified estate of the spiritual remnant has become a “sign,” and the time of its continuance is indefinite. It has persisted till now in spite of World War II and other world turmoil and disasters. It has not been “cut off” till the present time, and it will never be cut off.—Isaiah 55:12, 13. 41, 42. In this matter of the restoration of spiritual Israel, how did matters turn out as expressed at Isaiah 55:8, 9? 41 Especially in the eyes of the restored remnant of spiritual Israel this has all been so wonderful, amazing. Back there during the oppressions of World War I and during their bondage to Babylon the Great, never did they imagine that such a thing would take place. According to the ways that they understood the Bible prophecies, such a thing was unimaginable! It would have been thought to be presumptuous to expect or predict that such a thing would take place with this captive, exiled remnant of spiritual Israel while still on earth. Certainly their thoughts were not on a level with God’s thoughts nor their ways of proceeding on a plane with his ways. It turned out to be just as Jehovah himself expressed it: 42 “‘The thoughts of you people are not my thoughts, nor are my ways your ways,’ is the utterance of Jehovah. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.’”—Isaiah 55:8, 9. 43. What does all the evidence indicate as to who is responsible for this spiritual paradise? 43 It all tends to prove that this thing is not of man, but is of the Almighty God. In this regard the rule is true today that was stated by the lawyer Gamaliel to the Jerusalem Sanhedrin back in the apostolic days of the first century C.E.: “If this scheme or this work is from men, it will be overthrown; but if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them [the scheme or the work].” (Acts 5:38, 39) Consequently, the spiritual paradise that has not been cut off from Jehovah’s Christian witnesses down to this day is a “sign” for which the Almighty God is responsible. By it He has become famous earth wide. He has won for himself a great name. Thankful can all those God-fearing people be who have met the requirements for entering the spiritual paradise that he has established by their searching for him while he can be found and calling upon his personal name while he is yet near during this “conclusion of the system of things.”—Isaiah 55:6; Matthew 24:3. [Picture on page 123] Storks in their nest atop a juniper tree
Divine Name (na) 1984	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/brochures-and-booklets/divine-name-na	input Page/Publishers’ Page The Divine Name That Will Endure Forever 2006 Printing This publication is provided as part of a worldwide Bible educational work supported by voluntary donations. Scripture quotations in this brochure are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, 1984 Edition.
Reasoning (rs) 1989	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/library/r1/lp-e/all-publications/books/reasoning-rs	Heaven Definition: The dwelling place of Jehovah God and of faithful spirit creatures; a realm invisible to human eyes. The Bible also uses the term “heaven(s)” in a variety of other senses; for example: to represent God himself, his organization of faithful spirit creatures, a position of divine favor, the physical universe apart from the earth, the expanse surrounding planet Earth, human governments under Satan’s domination, and the righteous new heavenly government in which Jesus Christ with his joint heirs are empowered by Jehovah to rule. Did we all exist in the spirit realm before our birth as humans? John 8:23: “[Jesus Christ said:] ‘You are from the realms below; I am from the realms above. You are from this world; I am not from this world.’” (Jesus did come from the spirit realm. But, as Jesus said, other men did not.) Rom. 9:10-12: “Rebekah conceived twins . . . When they had not yet been born nor had practiced anything good or vile, in order that the purpose of God respecting the choosing might continue dependent, not upon works, but upon the One who calls, it was said to her: ‘The older will be the slave of the younger.’” (Of course, if the twins Jacob and Esau had lived previously in a spirit realm they certainly would have built up a record based on their conduct there, would they not? But they had no such record until after their birth as humans.) Do all good people go to heaven? Acts 2:34: “David [whom the Bible refers to as being ‘a man agreeable to Jehovah’s heart’] did not ascend to the heavens.” Matt. 11:11: “Truly I say to you people, Among those born of women there has not been raised up a greater than John the Baptist; but a person that is a lesser one in the kingdom of the heavens is greater than he is.” (So John did not go to heaven when he died.) Ps. 37:9, 11, 29: “Evildoers themselves will be cut off, but those hoping in Jehovah are the ones that will possess the earth . . . The meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace. The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it.” If Adam had not sinned, would he eventually have gone to heaven? Gen. 1:26: “God went on to say: ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness, and let them have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and the domestic animals and all the earth and every moving animal that is moving upon the earth.’” (So, God’s purpose for Adam was that he be caretaker of the earth and of the animal life there. Nothing is said about his going to heaven.) Gen. 2:16, 17: “Jehovah God also laid this command upon the man: ‘From every tree of the garden you may eat to satisfaction. But as for the tree of the knowledge of good and bad you must not eat from it, for in the day you eat from it you will positively die.’” (It was not Jehovah’s original purpose for man someday to die. God’s command here quoted shows that he warned against the course that would lead to death. Death was to be punishment for disobedience, not the doorway to a better life in heaven. Obedience would have been rewarded by continued life, eternal life, in the Paradise that God had given to man. See also Isaiah 45:18.) Must a person go to heaven to have a truly happy future? Ps. 37:11: “The meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.” Rev. 21:1-4: “I saw a new heaven and a new earth . . . I heard a loud voice from the throne say: ‘Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.’” Mic. 4:3, 4: “They will not lift up sword, nation against nation, neither will they learn war anymore. And they will actually sit, each one under his vine and under his fig tree, and there will be no one making them tremble; for the very mouth of Jehovah of armies has spoken it.” Did Jesus open the way to heaven for those who had died before his own death? What does 1 Peter 3:19, 20 mean? “In this state [in the spirit, following his resurrection] also he [Jesus] went his way and preached to the spirits in prison, who had once been disobedient when the patience of God was waiting in Noah’s days, while the ark was being constructed, in which a few people, that is, eight souls [“souls,” KJ, Dy; “people,” TEV, JB; “persons,” RS], were carried safely through the water.” (Were those “spirits in prison” the souls of the humans who had refused to take heed to Noah’s preaching before the Flood, and was the way now open for them to go to heaven? Comparison of 2 Peter 2:4 and Jude 6 with Genesis 6:2-4 shows that these spirits were angelic sons of God that had materialized and married in Noah’s day. At 1 Peter 3:19, 20 the Greek word for “spirits” is pneuʹma·sin, while the word rendered “souls” is psy·khaiʹ. The “spirits” were not disembodied souls but disobedient angels; the “souls” here referred to were living people, humans, Noah and his household. What was preached to “spirits in prison” must therefore have been a message of judgment.) What is the meaning of 1 Peter 4:6? “In fact, for this purpose the good news was declared also to the dead, that they might be judged as to the flesh from the standpoint of men but might live as to the spirit from the standpoint of God.” (Were these “dead” the people who had died prior to the death of Christ? As already shown, the dead are not “the spirits in prison.” Those spirits were disobedient angels. And preaching would not have benefited physically dead humans because, as Ecclesiastes 9:5 says, they “are conscious of nothing at all,” and Psalm 146:4 adds that at death a person’s “thoughts do perish.” But Ephesians 2:1-7, 17 does refer to persons who were spiritually dead and who came to life spiritually as a result of accepting the good news.) Is heavenly life set out in the “New Testament” as the hope for all Christians? John 14:2, 3: “In the house of my Father there are many abodes. Otherwise, I would have told you, because I am going my way to prepare a place for you. Also, if I go my way and prepare a place for you, I am coming again and will receive you home to myself, that where I am you also may be.” (Jesus here shows that his faithful apostles, to whom he was speaking, would, in time, be in his Father’s “house,” in heaven, with Jesus. But he does not here say how many others would also go to heaven.) John 1:12, 13: “As many as did receive him [Jesus], to them he gave authority to become God’s children, because they were exercising faith in his name; and they were born, not from blood or from a fleshly will or from man’s will, but from God.” (Notice that the context, in verse 11, refers to Jesus’ “own people,” the Jews. As many of them as did receive him when he came to them in the first century became God’s children, with heavenly life in view. The verbs in the text are in the past tense, so this passage is not referring to all people who have become Christians since then.) Rom. 8:14, 16, 17: “All who are led by God’s spirit, these are God’s sons. The spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are God’s children. If, then, we are children, we are also heirs: heirs indeed of God, but joint heirs with Christ, provided we suffer together that we may also be glorified together.” (At the time this was written it was true that all who were led by God’s spirit were God’s sons whose hope was that they would be glorified with Christ. But this had not always been true. Luke 1:15 says that John the Baptizer would be filled with holy spirit, but Matthew 11:11 makes clear that he will not share in the glory of the heavenly Kingdom. So, too, after the gathering of the heirs of the heavenly Kingdom, there would be others who would serve God as followers of his Son and yet not share in heavenly glory.) What specific references are there in the “New Testament” to a provision for Christians to be rewarded with eternal life on earth? Matt. 5:5: “Happy are the mild-tempered ones, since they will inherit the earth.” Matt. 6:9, 10: “Our Father in the heavens, let your name be sanctified. Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth.” (What is God’s will regarding the earth? What do Genesis 1:28 and Isaiah 45:18 indicate?) Matt. 25:31-33, 40, 46: “When the Son of man arrives in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit down on his glorious throne. And all the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another, just as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. And he will put the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left. . . . The king will say to them [the sheep], ‘Truly I say to you, To the extent that you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’ And [the goats] will depart into everlasting cutting-off, but the righteous ones [the sheep] into everlasting life.” (Notice that these “sheep” are not the same as the King’s brothers, who are “partakers of the heavenly calling.” [Heb. 2:10–3:1] But these sheeplike ones would be alive during the time that Christ was on his throne and during the time when some of his “brothers” would still be experiencing hardship on earth.) John 10:16: “I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; those also I must bring, and they will listen to my voice, and they will become one flock, one shepherd.” (Who are these “other sheep”? They are followers of the Fine Shepherd, Jesus Christ, but are not in the “new covenant” sheepfold, with hope of heavenly life. Yet they do come to be closely associated with those who are in that sheepfold.) 2 Pet. 3:13: “There are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell.” (Also Revelation 21:1-4) Rev. 7:9, 10: “After these things [after the apostle John saw the full number of “sealed” ones who had been “bought from the earth” to be with Christ on heavenly Mount Zion; see Revelation 7:3, 4; 14:1-3] I saw, and, look! a great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, dressed in white robes; and there were palm branches in their hands. And they keep on crying with a loud voice, saying: ‘Salvation we owe to our God, who is seated on the throne, and to the Lamb.’” To how many does the Bible hold out hope of heavenly life? Luke 12:32: “Have no fear, little flock, because your Father has approved of giving you the kingdom.” Rev. 14:1-3: “I saw, and, look! the Lamb [Jesus Christ] standing upon the Mount Zion [in heaven; see Hebrews 12:22-24], and with him a hundred and forty-four thousand having his name and the name of his Father written on their foreheads. . . . And they are singing as if a new song . . . and no one was able to master that song but the hundred and forty-four thousand, who have been bought from the earth.” Are the 144,000 only natural Jews? Rev. 7:4-8: “I heard the number of those who were sealed, a hundred and forty-four thousand, sealed out of every tribe of the sons of Israel: . . . Judah . . . Reuben . . . Gad . . . Asher . . . Naphtali . . . Manasseh . . . Simeon . . . Levi . . . Issachar . . . Zebulun . . . Joseph . . . Benjamin.” (These cannot be the tribes of natural Israel because there never was a tribe of Joseph, the tribes of Ephraim and Dan are not included in the list here, and the Levites were set aside for service in connection with the temple but were not reckoned as one of the 12 tribes. See Numbers 1:4-16.) Rom. 2:28, 29: “He is not a Jew who is one on the outside, nor is circumcision that which is on the outside upon the flesh. But he is a Jew who is one on the inside, and his circumcision is that of the heart by spirit, and not by a written code.” Gal. 3:26-29: “You are all, in fact, sons of God through your faith in Christ Jesus. . . . There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor freeman, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one person in union with Christ Jesus. Moreover, if you belong to Christ, you are really Abraham’s seed, heirs with reference to a promise.” Is the number 144,000 merely symbolic? The answer is indicated by the fact that, after mention of the definite number 144,000, Revelation 7:9 refers to “a great crowd, which no man was able to number.” If the number 144,000 were not literal it would lack meaning as a contrast to the “great crowd.” Viewing the number as literal agrees with Jesus’ statement at Matthew 22:14 regarding the Kingdom of the heavens: “There are many invited, but few chosen.” Do those of the “great crowd” referred to at Revelation 7:9, 10 also go to heaven? Revelation does not say of them, as it does of the 144,000, that they are “bought from the earth” to be with Christ on heavenly Mount Zion.—Rev. 14:1-3. The description of them as “standing before the throne and before the Lamb” indicates, not necessarily a location, but an approved condition. (Compare Revelation 6:17; Luke 21:36.) The expression “before the throne” (Greek, e·noʹpi·on tou throʹnou; literally, “in sight of the throne”) does not require that they be in heaven. Their position is simply “in sight” of God, who tells us that from heaven he beholds the sons of men.—Ps. 11:4; compare Matthew 25:31-33; Luke 1:74, 75; Acts 10:33. The “great crowd in heaven” referred to at Revelation 19:1, 6 is not the same as the “great crowd” of Revelation 7:9. The ones in heaven are not described as being “out of all nations” or as ascribing their salvation to the Lamb; they are angels. The expression “great crowd” is used in a variety of contexts in the Bible.—Mark 5:24; 6:34; 12:37. What will those who go to heaven do there? Rev. 20:6: “They will be priests of God and of the Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years.” (Also Daniel 7:27) 1 Cor. 6:2: “Do you not know that the holy ones will judge the world?” Rev. 5:10: “You made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God, and they are to rule as kings over [“on,” RS, KJ, Dy; “over,” AT, Da, Kx, CC] the earth.” (The same Greek word and grammatical structure is found at Revelation 11:6. There RS, KJ, Dy, etc., all render it “over.”) Who selects the ones who will go to heaven? 2 Thess. 2:13, 14: “We are obligated to thank God always for you, brothers loved by Jehovah, because God selected you from the beginning for salvation by sanctifying you with spirit and by your faith in the truth. To this very destiny he called you through the good news we declare, for the purpose of acquiring the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Rom. 9:6, 16: “Not all who spring from Israel are really ‘Israel.’ . . . It depends, not upon the one wishing nor upon the one running, but upon God, who has mercy.”
Young People Ask, Volume 1 (yp1) 2011	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp1	CHAPTER 35 How Can I Break Free From Drugs? ARE YOU hooked on drugs? You may know that your addiction is damaging your mind and body. You may even have tried to break the habit but then relapsed. If so, don’t despair. Others have overcome drug addiction, and so can you! For example, consider what three people from very different backgrounds say about how they broke free. NAME Marta MY BACKGROUND My mom wasn’t married when she gave birth to me, so my sister and I were brought up without a father. From about age 12, I started going to discos with an aunt who loved to dance. I was very outgoing and soon became involved with people who had bad habits. I began experimenting with drugs at the age of 13. I also started using cocaine. At first, I enjoyed using the drug. But after a while, I began having hallucinations and became afraid of everything. And when the effects of the drugs wore off, thoughts of suicide filled my mind. I wanted to quit drugs but didn’t have the willpower. HOW I BROKE FREE I began thinking about God and even attended church a few times. But I only felt more despondent. At the age of 18, I went to live with my boyfriend and had a baby. Having a son increased my desire to change my lifestyle. A former friend moved into the house opposite where I was living. She visited me and asked how I was doing. I just poured my heart out to her. She said that she had become one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and offered to study the Bible with me. I accepted. I learned that my lifestyle was not pleasing to God and that I had to quit taking drugs and smoking. But the drugs had a strong hold on me. I begged Jehovah God several times a day to help me break free from my bad habits. I wanted to please him. (Proverbs 27:11) After six months of studying the Bible and associating with Jehovah’s Witnesses, I was able to quit drugs. Now my life is more meaningful. I’m no longer depressed all the time. I met a wonderful Christian man and married him. I have raised my son according to Bible principles. I am so thankful that Jehovah heard my prayers and helped me! NAME Marcio MY BACKGROUND I grew up on the outskirts of Santo André, a densely populated city in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. I was introduced to tobacco, drugs, and robbery at an early age. Several of my friends were involved in car theft and drug trafficking. One of them offered free drugs to youths in our area. Once they were hooked, they had to buy the drugs from him. The police were always patrolling our area, and I was arrested a number of times for petty offenses and once on suspicion of drug trafficking. Many times I stored a gang’s stolen goods and guns in my house. People were afraid of me. My eyes were bloodshot. I never smiled. In fact, I constantly wore a murderous expression on my face. I was nicknamed “Tufão” (Typhoon) because wherever I went, I caused trouble. I also drank heavily and led an immoral life. Many of my friends died or ended up in jail. I was so down that I tied a rope around a tree branch and tried to hang myself. HOW I BROKE FREE FROM DRUGS I asked God to help me. Eventually, I met Jehovah’s Witnesses and began studying the Bible. I learned that God has a personal name, Jehovah, and that he cares about and helps those who try hard to live by his standards. (Psalm 83:18; 1 Peter 5:6, 7) I had a lot of changes to make. One of the hardest was learning to smile. I constantly asked Jehovah for help, and I applied the Bible’s advice. For example, I stopped associating with my former “friends” and avoided going to bars. Instead, I chose to associate with people who lived by Bible standards. It has been a difficult struggle, but I am no longer a thief and a troublemaker. And for more than a decade now, I have remained drug free. NAME Craig MY BACKGROUND I was raised on a farm in South Australia. My father was an alcoholic, and he and my mother separated when I was eight. My mother remarried, and I stayed with her until I was 17. That year I learned to shear sheep and started living with gangs of shearers who traveled about for work. I began taking a number of different drugs and abusing alcohol. I grew my hair long. Then I waxed and plaited it and wove beads into it. I became jealous and abusive and developed a bad temper. On more than one occasion, I landed in jail. I moved to a small town in Western Australia and lived with my girlfriend, who was a barmaid at the local hotel. We both smoked and drank, and we grew our own marijuana crop. HOW I BROKE FREE FROM DRUGS We had just harvested our marijuana when Jehovah’s Witnesses knocked at the door of our run-down old house. I didn’t merely accept what they said. Instead, over time, I proved to myself that what the Bible says is true. Then, one step at a time, I battled each of my problems. I soon knew I had to break my marijuana habit. What would that involve? I had put a lot of effort into growing my crop, so at first I thought of giving it away. But I decided that this was not a good solution and destroyed the crop instead. Prayer played a major role in helping me overcome my drug and alcohol abuse. I asked for God’s spirit to help me fight and win the battles I faced. I also stopped associating with the people who encouraged my bad habits. As I learned and applied the Bible’s teachings, I gained the emotional security I needed to overcome some of my personality flaws. My girlfriend also studied the Bible and changed her habits and lifestyle. We married. For 21 years we have enjoyed better health, and we now have the pleasure of raising two children. I shudder to think what my life would be like if I hadn’t had Jehovah’s help in changing my lifestyle. KEY SCRIPTURE “Jehovah is my strength and my might.”—Isaiah 12:2. TIP If possible, avoid people, places, and things associated with your former drug use. Research shows that just seeing any of those can trigger cravings. DID YOU KNOW . . . ? Drug abuse can change the structure of your brain. ACTION PLAN! If I have a relapse, I will ․․․․․ What I would like to ask my parent(s) about this subject is ․․․․․ WHAT DO YOU THINK? ● Why might a person need to make drastic changes in his lifestyle if he wants to break free from drugs? ● How can learning the truth about God help? [Blurb on page 253] “By living up to the Bible’s high standards, I have now found happiness and meaning in life.”—Marta [Picture on page 256] Overcoming addiction is like escaping a burning house—you will leave things behind, but you will save your life
Young People Ask, Volume 1 (yp1) 2011	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/yp1	CHAPTER 5 How Can I Deal With My Parent’s Remarriage? YOUR parent might be so happy on the day he or she remarries. You, though, might feel anything but joy! Why? The remarriage of a parent destroys the hope that your biological parents will ever get back together. On the other hand, the remarriage can be particularly painful if it comes on the heels of the death of a beloved parent. How did you feel when your parent remarried? Put a ✔ next to any of the descriptions that apply to you. I felt . . . □ Happy □ Insecure □ Betrayed □ Jealous of my stepparent □ Guilty of betrayal because I began to love my stepparent That last reaction could be caused by your sense of loyalty to your absent parent. Whatever the reason, the feelings mentioned above might make you vent your emotional pain in destructive ways. For example, you might constantly make life difficult for your stepparent. You might even try to cause trouble between your parent and your stepparent, hoping to break them up. However, a wise proverb warns: “He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind”—that is, he will end up with nothing. (Proverbs 11:29, New International Version) You don’t have to fall into that trap. You can cope with your emotional turmoil in more productive ways. Consider a few examples. Challenge 1: Coping With the Authority of a Stepparent Coming under the authority of a new parent is not easy. When asked to do something, you may be tempted to blurt out, ‘You’re not my real mother/father!’ Such a response may give you a brief surge of satisfaction, but it betrays an immature attitude. On the other hand, accepting the authority of your stepparent is one way to show that you have heeded the Bible’s counsel to “grow up in your thinking.” (1 Corinthians 14:20, The Holy Bible in the Language of Today, by William Beck) Really, your stepparent performs the duties of a natural parent and deserves your respect.—Proverbs 1:8; Ephesians 6:1-4. A stepparent’s discipline is usually an expression of his or her love and concern for you. (Proverbs 13:24) “My stepdad does discipline us,” says Yvonne, 18, “but that’s what normal fathers are supposed to do. I feel that if I resent his counsel, then I’m saying that it doesn’t matter that he has provided for us materially and spiritually over the years. And that would be ungrateful.” Still, you may have legitimate grounds for complaint. If so, prove yourself to be ‘grown up’ by doing as Colossians 3:13 urges: “Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely if anyone has a cause for complaint against another.” Below, write two or more good qualities that your stepparent possesses. ․․․․․ How could remembering your stepparent’s good qualities help you to respect him or her more? ․․․․․ Challenge 2: Learning to Share and to Compromise “My dad ended up remarrying twice,” recalls 24-year-old Aaron. “I found it difficult to feel affection for each new stepfamily. At first, they were just strangers, but I was told that I was under compulsion to love them. I found the situation confusing.” You too may face difficult challenges. For example, you might have to relinquish your position as the oldest or the only child. If you are a son, you may for a long time have felt you were the man of the house—a position now occupied by your stepfather. Or you may relate to Yvonne. “My biological dad never paid any attention to Mom,” she says, “so I was used to having her all to myself. But when Mom remarried, my stepdad showed her a lot of attention. They spent time together and talked together, and I felt he was stealing her away from me. Eventually, though, I was able to adjust.” Like Yvonne, how can you adjust? “Let your reasonableness become known to all men,” recommends the Bible. (Philippians 4:5) The original word translated “reasonableness” meant “yielding” and conveyed the attitude of one who did not insist on all his lawful rights. How can you apply that counsel? (1) Avoid dwelling on the past. (Ecclesiastes 7:10) (2) Be willing to share with your stepparent, stepbrothers, and stepsisters. (1 Timothy 6:18) (3) Don’t treat them as outsiders. Which of the above points do you need to work on most? ․․․․․ Challenge 3: Coping With Unequal Treatment “My stepdad loved his children far more than he did me and my sister,” says Tara. “He would buy any food they liked and rent movies they wanted to watch. He’d do anything to please them.” Such treatment is hard to bear. What might help? Try to understand why a stepparent may not feel the same way toward a stepchild as he does toward his natural one. Perhaps it is not the blood tie with his natural child but their shared experience in living. After all, you likely feel closer to your natural parent than you do to your stepparent. There is, however, an important distinction between equal and fair. People have individual personalities and differing needs. So instead of being overly concerned about whether your stepparent is treating you equally, try to see if he or she is striving to meet your needs. What needs of yours does your stepparent fulfill? ․․․․․ What needs do you feel are not being met? ․․․․․ If you feel that some of your needs are not being met, why not respectfully discuss the matter with your stepparent? Patience Pays Off! Normally, several years are needed before trust develops to the point where members of a stepfamily feel at ease with one another. Only then may diverse habits and values blend into a workable routine. So be patient! Do not expect that you will experience instant love or that an instant family will result. When his mother remarried, Thomas was uneasy, to say the least. His mother had four children, and the man she married had three. “We had fights, arguments, disruptions, terrible emotional strains,” wrote Thomas. What brought eventual success? “By applying Bible principles, things were resolved.” IN OUR NEXT CHAPTERWhat if all your siblings are your natural brothers and sisters but they drive you crazy? KEY SCRIPTURE “Better is the end afterward of a matter than its beginning. Better is one who is patient than one who is haughty in spirit.”—Ecclesiastes 7:8. TIP Living with new siblings of the opposite sex can create moral pressures. So put up a mental block concerning sexual feelings, and make sure that neither your dress nor your conduct is sexually provocative. DID YOU KNOW . . . ? Your stepbrothers or stepsisters may also be having difficulty adjusting to the stepfamily situation. ACTION PLAN! I will try to increase my respect for my stepparent by remembering the following good things he or she has done for the family (write down two positive things): ․․․․․ If my stepsiblings snub me, I can apply the principle at Romans 12:21 by doing the following: ․․․․․ What I would like to ask my parent or stepparent about this subject is ․․․․․ WHAT DO YOU THINK? ● What fears might your stepparent or stepsiblings have about joining your family? ● Why is it important to take a long-range view of your new family relationships? [Blurb on page 38] “Mom’s second marriage ended in divorce. But to this day I am still very close to my stepsiblings. Their coming into my life was one of the best things that ever happened to me.”—Tara [Picture on page 39] Blending two families together is like mixing water and cement—it takes time and effort, but the end result can be a strong, enduring product
Table of outputs	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102010000	Table of outputs January 2010 Are You Working Too Hard? How can you avoid being stressed out and still keep balanced? 3 Are You Stressed Out? 4 Cultivate a Balanced View of Work 7 Live a Simple, Balanced Life 10 The Bible’s ViewpointWhat Is Judgment Day? 12 Watching the World 16 Cultivating Orchids—How Patience Pays Off 19 The Golden Age of Queen Elizabeth I—Myth or Reality? 23 Come See an African Market 25 Was It Designed?Bone—A Marvel of Strength 29 ‘Arresting the Drift Toward Selfishness’ 30 “Stop Being Anxious” 31 For Family Review 32 Do You Want to Be God’s Friend? Can Mealtime Strengthen Your Family Values? 13 Strive to maintain a daily habit of at least one meal together as a family around the table. See how communication blossoms. Why Don’t Boys Like Me? 26 What kind of girls are boys really attracted to? The answer might surprise you!
Part 1b—Why Examine the World of Commerce?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101992002	The Rise and Fall of World Commerce Part 1b—Why Examine the World of Commerce? A WORLD without political rivalry, religious bickering, and economic anxiety is hard to imagine. Not a day passes but that politics, religion, and commerce reach out to touch us in any number of ways. Remove these three pillars of human society, and the result could be chaos. Whenever groups of people live together, some system of economics—household management—is essential to provide them with the goods and services they need. (See box below.) So every household strives to have a healthy economy. Likewise, the economy of every government involves four basic factors: (1) establishing what goods and services are to be produced, (2) deciding how those goods and services are to be produced, (3) determining how to distribute what is produced, and then (4) regulating matters so that the economy will grow at a proper speed and provide employment for all. The economic systems developed by man have undeniably made life more comfortable, providing us with goods and services we would be unable to provide for ourselves. These systems have often substantially raised standards of living. Improved communications permit us to reach people in any part of the world by telephone within seconds, fax material to them within minutes, and even travel to talk to them face-to-face within hours. Yet, we cannot overlook that the world of commerce influences humans in a way that is even more far-reaching. Together with religion and politics, it can affect our very destiny.a So it is appropriate now to turn our attention to the third main element of human society, the world of commerce. How did it become so powerful? Where is it headed? What implications does this have for us personally? [Footnotes] a Awake! has published two series of articles that clearly showed how this is true of religion and of political systems. “Religion’s Future in View of Its Past,” January 8 through December 22, 1989; “Human Rule Weighed in the Balances,” August 8 through December 22, 1990. [Box on page 5] Defining the World of Commerce You may find it difficult to define words such as “commerce,” “trade,” “industry,” “business,” and “economics.” Collins Cobuild English Language Dictionary defines “commerce” as simply “the activities and procedures involved in buying and selling things.” This necessarily involves “trade,” which is “the activity of buying, selling, or exchanging goods or services between people, firms, or countries.” Of course, goods must be manufactured or processed before they can be traded, a process known as “industry.” And work related to commerce and trade is termed “business.” As for “economics,” it is “the study of the production of wealth and the consumption of goods and services in a society, and the organization of its money, industry, and trade.” Giving us further insight into the meaning of this word is the fact that it is derived from Greek roots designating the management of a household or estate.
Isaiah’s Prophecy II (ip-2) 2001	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/ip-2	Chapter Twelve Comfort for God’s People Isaiah 51:1-23 1. What bleak prospects lie ahead for Jerusalem and her inhabitants, yet what hope is there? SEVENTY years—a normal human life span—that is how long the nation of Judah will be captive in Babylon. (Psalm 90:10; Jeremiah 25:11; 29:10) Most Israelites taken captive will grow old and die in Babylon. Think how humiliated they will be by the taunts and jeers of their enemies. Think, too, of the reproach that will be heaped upon their God, Jehovah, when the city on which he placed his name lies desolate for so long. (Nehemiah 1:9; Psalm 132:13; 137:1-3) The beloved temple, which was filled with God’s glory when it was dedicated by Solomon, will be no more. (2 Chronicles 7:1-3) What bleak prospects! But Jehovah, through Isaiah, prophesies a restoration. (Isaiah 43:14; 44:26-28) In chapter 51 of the book of Isaiah, we find further prophecies on this theme of comfort and reassurance. 2. (a) To whom does Jehovah, through Isaiah, address his message of comfort? (b) How do faithful Jews ‘pursue after righteousness’? 2 To those in Judah who incline their hearts toward him, Jehovah says: “Listen to me, you people who are pursuing after righteousness, you who are seeking to find Jehovah.” (Isaiah 51:1a) “Pursuing after righteousness” implies action. Those ‘pursuing righteousness’ will not merely claim to be God’s people. They will zealously strive to be righteous and to live in harmony with God’s will. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 21:21) They will look to Jehovah as the only Source of righteousness, and they will ‘seek to find Jehovah.’ (Psalm 11:7; 145:17) It is not that they will not already know who Jehovah is or how to approach him in prayer. Rather, they will endeavor to draw closer to him, worshiping him, praying to him, and seeking his direction in all they do. 3, 4. (a) Who is “the rock” from which the Jews were hewn, and who is “the hollow of the pit” from which they were dug out? (b) Why will remembering their roots bring comfort to the Jews? 3 However, those who truly pursue righteousness are comparatively few in Judah, and this may cause them to be fainthearted and despondent. So using the illustration of a quarry, Jehovah encourages them: “Look to the rock from which you were hewn out, and to the hollow of the pit from which you were dug out. Look to Abraham your father and to Sarah who gradually brought you forth with childbirth pains. For he was one when I called him, and I proceeded to bless him and to make him many.” (Isaiah 51:1b, 2) “The rock” from which the Jews were hewn is Abraham, a historical figure in whom the nation of Israel takes much pride. (Matthew 3:9; John 8:33, 39) He is the progenitor, the human source, of the nation. “The hollow of the pit” is Sarah, from whose womb came Israel’s ancestor Isaac. 4 Abraham and Sarah were beyond their procreative years and were childless. Yet, Jehovah promised to bless Abraham and “to make him many.” (Genesis 17:1-6, 15-17) By divine restoration of their procreative powers, Abraham and Sarah brought forth a child in their old age, and from him God’s covenant nation sprang. Thus Jehovah made that one man father of a great nation whose number turned out to be as uncountable as the stars in the heavens. (Genesis 15:5; Acts 7:5) If Jehovah could thus take Abraham from a distant land and form him into a mighty nation, he can certainly carry out his promise to free a faithful remnant from bondage in Babylon, restore them to their homeland, and once again form them into a great nation. God’s promise to Abraham was fulfilled; his promise to those captive Jews will also be carried out. 5. (a) Whom do Abraham and Sarah picture? Explain. (b) In the final fulfillment, who trace their origin to “the rock”? 5 The symbolic quarrying of Isaiah 51:1, 2 likely has a further application. Deuteronomy 32:18 calls Jehovah “the Rock” who fathered Israel and “the One bringing [Israel] forth with childbirth pains.” In the latter expression, the same Hebrew verb is used as that which appears at Isaiah 51:2 with regard to Sarah giving birth to Israel. Hence, Abraham stands as a prophetic type of Jehovah, the Greater Abraham. Abraham’s wife, Sarah, well pictures Jehovah’s universal heavenly organization of spirit creatures, represented in the Holy Scriptures as God’s wife, or woman. (Genesis 3:15; Revelation 12:1, 5) In the final fulfillment of these words of Isaiah’s prophecy, the nation that springs from “the rock” is “the Israel of God,” the congregation of spirit-anointed Christians, which was born at Pentecost 33 C.E. As discussed in previous chapters of this book, that nation underwent Babylonish captivity in 1918 but was restored in 1919 to a state of spiritual prosperity.—Galatians 3:26-29; 4:28; 6:16. 6. (a) What lies ahead for the land of Judah, and what restoration will be called for? (b) Isaiah 51:3 reminds us of what modern-day restoration? 6 Jehovah’s comfort for Zion, or Jerusalem, includes more than just a promise to produce a populous nation. We read: “Jehovah will certainly comfort Zion. He will for certain comfort all her devastated places, and he will make her wilderness like Eden and her desert plain like the garden of Jehovah. Exultation and rejoicing themselves will be found in her, thanksgiving and the voice of melody.” (Isaiah 51:3) During the 70 years of desolation, the land of Judah will revert to a wilderness, overrun with thornbushes, brambles, and other wild vegetation. (Isaiah 64:10; Jeremiah 4:26; 9:10-12) So in addition to the resettling of Judah, the restoration will have to include the restoring of the land, which will be converted into an Edenic garden with well-watered productive fields and fruitful orchards. The ground will appear to rejoice. Compared with its desolate condition during the exile, the land will be paradisaic. The anointed remnant of the Israel of God entered just such a paradise in a spiritual sense in 1919.—Isaiah 11:6-9; 35:1-7. Reasons for Confidence in Jehovah 7, 8. (a) What does Jehovah’s call to give ear to him mean? (b) Why is it important that Judah pay heed to Jehovah? 7 Calling for renewed attentiveness, Jehovah says: “Pay attention to me, O my people; and you national group of mine, to me give ear. For from me a law itself will go forth, and my judicial decision I shall cause to repose even as a light to the peoples. My righteousness is near. My salvation will certainly go forth, and my own arms will judge even the peoples. In me the islands themselves will hope, and for my arm they will wait.”—Isaiah 51:4, 5. 8 Jehovah’s call to give ear to him means more than just hearing his message. It means paying attention with a view to acting on what is heard. (Psalm 49:1; 78:1) The nation must appreciate that Jehovah is the Source of instruction, justice, and salvation. He alone is the Source of spiritual enlightenment. (2 Corinthians 4:6) He is the ultimate Judge of mankind. The laws and judicial decisions that emanate from Jehovah are a light to those who allow themselves to be guided by them.—Psalm 43:3; 119:105; Proverbs 6:23. 9. Besides God’s covenant people, who will benefit from Jehovah’s saving acts? 9 All of this is to be true with regard not only to God’s covenant people but also to rightly disposed people everywhere, even on the most distant isles of the sea. Their confidence in God and in his ability to act in behalf of his faithful servants and to save them will not be disappointed. His might, or power, represented by his arm, is sure; it cannot be stayed by anyone. (Isaiah 40:10; Luke 1:51, 52) Similarly today, the zealous preaching work of the remaining members of the Israel of God has led millions, many from remote islands of the sea, to turn to Jehovah and put faith in him. 10. (a) What truth will King Nebuchadnezzar be forced to learn? (b) What “heavens” and “earth” will be brought to an end? 10 Jehovah next refers to a truth that King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon will have to learn. Nothing in heaven or on earth can stop Jehovah from carrying out his will. (Daniel 4:34, 35) We read: “Raise your eyes to the heavens themselves, and look at the earth beneath. For the very heavens must be dispersed in fragments just like smoke, and like a garment the earth itself will wear out, and its inhabitants themselves will die like a mere gnat. But as for my salvation, it will prove to be even to time indefinite, and my own righteousness will not be shattered.” (Isaiah 51:6) Although it is against the policy of the Babylonian monarchs to allow captives to return home, Jehovah’s saving of his people will not be thwarted. (Isaiah 14:16, 17) The Babylonian “heavens,” or ruling powers, will be broken in defeat. The Babylonian “earth,” the subjects of those ruling powers, will gradually come to an end. Yes, even the greatest power of the day cannot stand against Jehovah’s might or prevent his acts of salvation. 11. Why is the complete fulfillment of the prophecy that the Babylonian “heavens” and “earth” would be brought to an end encouraging to Christians today? 11 How encouraging it is for Christians today to know that these prophetic words were completely fulfilled! Why? Because the apostle Peter used similar expressions regarding a yet future event. He spoke of the rapidly approaching day of Jehovah, “through which the heavens being on fire will be dissolved and the elements being intensely hot will melt!” Then he said: “There are new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell.” (2 Peter 3:12, 13; Isaiah 34:4; Revelation 6:12-14) Although the mighty nations and their lofty starlike rulers may stand in defiance of Jehovah, in his due time they will be brought to nothing—crushed as easily as a mere gnat. (Psalm 2:1-9) Only God’s righteous government will rule forever, over a righteous human society.—Daniel 2:44; Revelation 21:1-4. 12. Why should God’s servants not be fearful when they are vilified by human opponents? 12 Speaking to the “people who are pursuing after righteousness,” Jehovah now says: “Listen to me, you the ones knowing righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law. Do not be afraid of the reproach of mortal men, and do not be struck with terror just because of their abusive words. For the moth will eat them up just as if a garment, and the clothes moth will eat them up just as if wool. But as for my righteousness, it will prove to be even to time indefinite, and my salvation to unnumbered generations.” (Isaiah 51:7, 8) Those trusting in Jehovah will be vilified and reproached for their courageous stand, but this is not something to be feared. The reproachers are mere mortals who will be ‘eaten up,’ just as a woolen garment is consumed by a moth.a Like faithful Jews of old, true Christians today have no reason to fear any who oppose them. Jehovah, the eternal God, is their salvation. (Psalm 37:1, 2) Reproach from God’s enemies stands as evidence that Jehovah’s people have his spirit.—Matthew 5:11, 12; 10:24-31. 13, 14. What is pictured by the expressions “Rahab” and “the sea monster,” and how is it ‘broken in pieces’ and “pierced”? 13 As if calling Jehovah to action in behalf of His captive people, Isaiah says: “Awake, awake, clothe yourself with strength, O arm of Jehovah! Awake as in the days of long ago, as during the generations of times long past. Are you not the one that broke Rahab to pieces, that pierced the sea monster? Are you not the one that dried up the sea, the waters of the vast deep? The one that made the depths of the sea a way for the repurchased ones to go across?”—Isaiah 51:9, 10. 14 The historical examples of which Isaiah speaks are well chosen. Every Israelite knows of the nation’s deliverance from Egypt and passage through the Red Sea. (Exodus 12:24-27; 14:26-31) The expressions “Rahab” and “the sea monster” refer to Egypt under her Pharaoh who opposed Israel’s Exodus from Egypt. (Psalm 74:13; 87:4; Isaiah 30:7) With its head at the Nile Delta and its elongated body stretching hundreds of miles up the fertile Nile Valley, ancient Egypt resembled a monstrous serpent. (Ezekiel 29:3) But this monster was cut to pieces when Jehovah poured out the Ten Plagues upon it. It was pierced, sorely wounded, and enfeebled when its army was destroyed in the waters of the Red Sea. Yes, Jehovah showed the power of his arm in his dealings with Egypt. Will he be any less ready to fight for his people exiled in Babylon? 15. (a) When and how will the grief and sighing of Zion flee away? (b) When did grief and sighing flee away for the Israel of God in modern times? 15 Now looking ahead to Israel’s deliverance from Babylon, the prophecy continues: “Then the redeemed ones of Jehovah themselves will return and must come to Zion with a joyful outcry, and rejoicing to time indefinite will be upon their head. To exultation and rejoicing they will attain. Grief and sighing will certainly flee away.” (Isaiah 51:11) However sad their situation may be in Babylon, those who seek Jehovah’s righteousness have glorious prospects. The time will come when grief and sighing will be no more. A joyful outcry, rejoicing, exultation—these will be heard from the lips of the redeemed, or ransomed, ones. In the modern fulfillment of those prophetic words, the Israel of God was released from Babylonish captivity in 1919. They returned to their spiritual estate with great rejoicing—rejoicing that has continued down until today. 16. What price is paid in order to redeem the Jews? 16 What will be the price of the redemption of the Jews? Isaiah’s prophecy has already revealed that Jehovah gives “Egypt as a ransom for you, Ethiopia and Seba in place of you.” (Isaiah 43:1-4) This will take place later. After conquering Babylon and releasing the Jewish captives, the Persian Empire will conquer Egypt, Ethiopia, and Seba. Those will be given in place of the Israelites’ souls. This is in harmony with the principle stated at Proverbs 21:18: “The wicked is a ransom for the righteous one; and the one dealing treacherously takes the place of the upright ones.” Further Reassurance 17. Why is there no need for the Jews to fear the rage of Babylon? 17 Jehovah further reassures his people: “I—I myself am the One that is comforting you people. Who are you that you should be afraid of a mortal man that will die, and of a son of mankind that will be rendered as mere green grass? And that you should forget Jehovah your Maker, the One stretching out the heavens and laying the foundation of the earth, so that you were in dread constantly the whole day long on account of the rage of the one hemming you in, as though he was all set to bring you to ruin? And where is the rage of the one hemming you in?” (Isaiah 51:12, 13) Years of exile lie ahead. Still, there is no reason to fear the rage of Babylon. Although that nation, the third world power of Bible record, will conquer God’s people and seek to ‘hem them in,’ or block their way of escape, faithful Jews know that Jehovah has foretold the fall of Babylon at the hand of Cyrus. (Isaiah 44:8, 24-28) In contrast to the Creator—the everlasting God, Jehovah—the inhabitants of Babylon will perish as grass that withers under the sun’s intense rays during the dry season. Then where will their threats and rage be? How unwise it is to fear man and forget Jehovah, the one who made heaven and earth! 18. Although his people will be prisoners for a time, what assurances does Jehovah give them? 18 Although Jehovah’s people will be captive for a while, “stooping in chains,” as it were, their release will be sudden. They will not be exterminated in Babylon or die of starvation as prisoners—rendered lifeless in Sheol, the pit. (Psalm 30:3; 88:3-5) Jehovah assures them: “The one stooping in chains will certainly be loosened speedily, that he may not go in death to the pit and that his bread may not be lacking.”—Isaiah 51:14. 19. Why can faithful Jews have complete confidence in Jehovah’s words? 19 Still comforting Zion, Jehovah continues: “But I, Jehovah, am your God, the One stirring up the sea that its waves may be boisterous. Jehovah of armies is his name. And I shall put my words in your mouth, and with the shadow of my hand I shall certainly cover you, in order to plant the heavens and lay the foundation of the earth and say to Zion, ‘You are my people.’” (Isaiah 51:15, 16) The Bible repeatedly mentions God’s ability to extend his power over the sea and to control it. (Job 26:12; Psalm 89:9; Jeremiah 31:35) He has total control over the forces of nature, as he displayed when he delivered his people from Egypt. Who can be compared, even in the smallest way, to “Jehovah of armies”?—Psalm 24:10. 20. What “heavens” and “earth” will come into existence when Jehovah restores Zion, and what comforting words will he utter? 20 The Jews remain God’s covenant people, and Jehovah assures them that they will return to their homeland, to live once more under his Law. There they will rebuild Jerusalem and the temple and resume their responsibilities under the covenant that he made with them through Moses. When the land begins to be repopulated with the repatriated Israelites and their domestic animals, “a new earth” will come into existence. Over it will be placed “new heavens,” a new governmental system. (Isaiah 65:17-19; Haggai 1:1, 14) Jehovah will again say to Zion: “You are my people.” A Call to Action 21. What call to action does Jehovah issue? 21 Having reassured Zion, Jehovah issues a call to action. Speaking as if she had already reached the end of her sufferings, he says: “Rouse yourself, rouse yourself, rise up, O Jerusalem, you who have drunk at the hand of Jehovah his cup of rage. The goblet, the cup causing reeling, you have drunk, you have drained out.” (Isaiah 51:17) Yes, Jerusalem must rise up from her calamitous condition and recover her former position and splendor. The time will come when she will have drained the symbolic cup of divine retribution. There will be nothing left of God’s anger toward her. 22, 23. What will Jerusalem experience when she drinks the cup of Jehovah’s anger? 22 Nevertheless, while Jerusalem is being punished, none of her inhabitants, her “sons,” will be able to prevent what is happening. (Isaiah 43:5-7; Jeremiah 3:14) The prophecy says: “There was none of all the sons that she brought to birth conducting her, and there was none of all the sons that she brought up taking hold of her hand.” (Isaiah 51:18) How she will suffer at the hands of the Babylonians! “Those two things were befalling you. Who will sympathize with you? Despoiling and breakdown, and hunger and sword! Who will comfort you? Your own sons have swooned away. They have lain down at the head of all the streets like the wild sheep in the net, as those who are full of the rage of Jehovah, the rebuke of your God.”—Isaiah 51:19, 20. 23 Poor Jerusalem! She will endure “despoiling and breakdown” as well as “hunger and sword.” Unable to guide her and keep her on her feet, her “sons” will stand by helpless, emaciated, not strong enough to repel the Babylonian invaders. Conspicuously, at the head, or corner, of the streets, they will lie faint, weak, and exhausted. (Lamentations 2:19; 4:1, 2) They will have drunk the cup of God’s rage and will be as powerless as animals caught in a net. 24, 25. (a) What will not be repeated for Jerusalem? (b) After Jerusalem, who will be next in line to drink the cup of Jehovah’s anger? 24 But this sad situation will come to an end. Isaiah comfortingly says: “Therefore listen to this, please, O woman afflicted and drunk, but not with wine. This is what your Lord, Jehovah, even your God, who contends for his people, has said: ‘Look! I will take away from your hand the cup causing reeling. The goblet, my cup of rage—you will not repeat the drinking of it anymore. And I will put it in the hand of the ones irritating you, who have said to your soul, “Bow down that we may cross over,” so that you used to make your back just like the earth, and like the street for those crossing over.’” (Isaiah 51:21-23) After disciplining Jerusalem, Jehovah is ready to act with pity and to show a forgiving spirit toward her. 25 Jehovah will now turn his anger away from Jerusalem and direct it toward Babylon. Babylon will have razed Jerusalem and humiliated her. (Psalm 137:7-9) But Jerusalem will not have to drink from such a cup again at the hands of Babylon or her allies. Instead, the cup will be taken out of Jerusalem’s hand and given to those who rejoiced at her disgrace. (Lamentations 4:21, 22) Babylon will go down, dead drunk. (Jeremiah 51:6-8) Meanwhile, Zion will rise! What a reversal! Truly, Zion can be comforted by such a prospect. And Jehovah’s servants can be assured that his name will be sanctified through his saving acts. [Footnote] a The moth referred to here is evidently the webbing clothes moth, particularly in its destructive larval stage. [Picture on page 167] Jehovah, the Greater Abraham, is “the rock” from which his people were “hewn out” [Picture on page 170] Opponents of God’s people will disappear, like a garment eaten by moths [Picture on page 176, 177] Jehovah has shown his power to control the elements [Picture on page 178] The cup from which Jerusalem will have drunk is to be passed to Babylon and her allies
Sing Praises (ssb) 1984	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/Ssb	Song 69 Godly Devotion With outputment (1 Timothy 6:6) 1. If we would have God’s blessing, outputment be possessing, We surely need God’s Word to heed And godliness be stressing. Great gain is godly devotion, Protects us from sin’s promotion. From day to day in God’s right way, It keeps our zeal in motion. 2. output with God’s provision, We make this our decision: Serve God alone, his truth make known, And hold the Kingdom vision. We heed our Lord’s invitation To walk the way of salvation. With joy so great, we contemplate God’s coming vindication. 3. To God we’re truly grateful, Although the world is hateful, For he does bless our godliness In these last days so fateful. Give God’s truth our full attention, Dismissing all apprehension. Let’s be intent to be output, With Christian comprehension.
Why Don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses Call Their Meeting Place a Church?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502013283	Why Don’t Jehovah’s Witnesses Call Their Meeting Place a Church? In the Bible, the Greek term that is sometimes translated “church” refers to a group of worshippers, not to the building they meet in. Note this example: When the apostle Paul wrote to the Christians in Rome, he sent greetings to a couple named Aquila and Priscilla and added: “Greet the church that meets in their home.” (Romans 16:5, Contemporary English Version) Paul didn’t intend for his greetings to be conveyed to a building. Rather, he was sending his greetings to people—the congregation that met in that home.a So instead of calling our place of worship a church, we use the term “Kingdom Hall.” Why “Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses”? This term is fitting for a number of reasons: The building is a hall, or meeting place. We meet to worship Jehovah, the God of the Bible, and to witness, or testify, about him.—Psalm 83:18; Isaiah 43:12. We also meet to learn about God’s Kingdom, of which Jesus often spoke.—Matthew 6:9, 10; 24:14; Luke 4:43. You are welcome to visit a Kingdom Hall near you and see for yourself how Jehovah’s Witnesses conduct their meetings. a Similar expressions occur at 1 Corinthians 16:19; Colossians 4:15; and Philemon 2.
Table of outputs	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102024002	Table of outputs IN THIS ISSUE What has happened to respect . . . for others? for life? for family? for self?
Bone—A Marvel of Strength	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102010013	Was It Designed? Bone—A Marvel of Strength ● Bone has been described as “an engineering masterpiece of tensile, compressive and elastic strength.” Why? Consider: The human skeleton consists of approximately 206 bones and 68 joints. The longest bone is the femur, or thighbone; the smallest is the stapes, a bone inside your ear. As skilled gymnasts clearly demonstrate, bones, muscles, cartilage, and joints can give a healthy body an astonishing degree of flexibility and range of movement. “The thumb alone would convince anyone that the architect of our body (whoever that may be to each one of us) had to be a genius!” says the National Space Biomedical Research Institute. Bones can also take an incredible pounding. “[They] are constructed in exactly the same way that reinforced concrete is constructed,” states the institute. “The steel of reinforced concrete provides the tensile strength, while the cement, sand, and rock provide the compressional strength. However, the compressional strength of bone is greater than that of even the best reinforced concrete.” “We only wish we could mimic it,” said Robert O. Ritchie, a professor of materials science at the University of California, Berkeley, U.S.A. Unlike concrete, bone is an essential part of countless living organisms. And it is dynamic. It is able to repair itself, respond to hormones that affect its growth and development, and even play a key role in the manufacture of blood cells. Also, like muscle, it slowly grows stronger as the load on it increases. Hence, athletes have heavier bones than do so-called couch potatoes. What do you think? Is bone a product of chance? Or was it designed? [Picture on page 25] Bone structure (enlarged) [Picture Credit Lines on page 25] Leg bone: © MedicalRF.com/age fotostock; close-up: © Alfred Pasieka/Photo Researchers, Inc.; gymnast: Cultura RF/Punchstock
United in Worship (uw) 1983	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/uw	Chapter 19 What the Mosaic Law Means to You 1. (a) What indicated that, beginning with 36 C.E., uncircumcised Gentiles were acceptable to Jehovah as Christians? (b) But over what issue did some early Christians have strong feelings? A HOTLY debated issue in the days of the apostle Paul was whether Gentile Christians were obligated to conform to the requirements of the Mosaic Law. It is true that in 36 C.E. holy spirit had come upon uncircumcised Gentiles. But some Christians of Jewish background felt strongly that Gentile disciples should be circumcised and taught to observe the Law of Moses. Was it, in fact, necessary for them to keep that Law, or perhaps part of it? About 49 C.E. the issue was referred to the governing body in Jerusalem.—Acts 10:44-48; 15:1, 2, 5. 2. Why does this issue interest us? 2 The outcome is of keen interest to us. Why? Not only because at times we meet people who argue that Christians must conform to certain requirements of the Law, such as Sabbath observance, but also because the Bible itself says that “the Law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good.” (Rom. 7:12) Though referred to as the Mosaic Law because Moses was the mediator of the Law covenant, that Law code actually originated with Jehovah God.—Ex. 24:3, 8. Why the Law? 3. Why was the Law given to Israel? 3 How we view the Law today is affected by whether we understand why Jehovah gave Israel a Law code. The Scriptures explain: “It was added [to the Abrahamic covenant] to make transgressions manifest, until the seed should arrive to whom the promise had been made . . . Consequently the Law has become our tutor leading to Christ, that we might be declared righteous due to faith.” (Gal. 3:19, 24) How did the Law do this? 4. (a) How did that Law “make transgressions manifest”? (b) How did it also lead faithful ones to Christ? 4 By setting out a perfect pattern covering the various facets of life, it showed up the Jews as sinners. It became evident that, despite any good intentions and diligent efforts, they could not measure up to its requirements. Using the Jews as a sample of the imperfect human family, the Law exposed all the world, including each one of us, as sinners, liable to God for punishment. (Rom. 3:19, 20) Thus it emphasized the need for a savior for mankind, and it led faithful ones to Jesus Christ as that Savior. In what way? It identified him as the only one who kept the Law perfectly, thus the only human who was sinless. Animal sacrifices under the Law had only limited value, but as a perfect human, Jesus could offer his life as a sacrifice that would really remove sin and open the way to eternal life for all those exercising faith.—John 1:29; 3:16; 1 Pet. 1:18, 19. 5. Using the scriptures provided, answer the questions included with this paragraph. 5 With this background in mind, how would you answer the following questions? Was the Mosaic Law ever meant to be binding on all mankind? (Ps. 147:19, 20; Ex. 31:12, 13) Did Jehovah give any indication to Israel that someday the Law covenant would end? (Jer. 31:31-33; Heb. 8:13) Did the Ten Commandments, including the requirement to observe a weekly Sabbath, continue in force after the rest of the Law was canceled? (Col. 2:13, 14, 16; 2 Cor. 3:7-11 [as made clear by Exodus 34:28-30]; Rom. 7:6, 7) By what means did Jehovah bring the Law covenant to its end? (Col. 2:13-17; Matt. 5:17, 18; Rom. 10:4) 6. What is implied by arguments claiming that the Mosaic Law is still in force? 6 In the light of this, what is implied by arguing that the Mosaic Law is still in force? In effect, this constitutes a repudiation of faith in Jesus Christ. Why is that so? Because such a view rejects the fact that Jesus fulfilled the Law, thus paving the way for God to terminate it. To persons who professed to be Christians but who were swayed by arguments in favor of keeping the Law, or some portion of it, the apostle Paul forcefully wrote: “You are parted from Christ, whoever you are that try to be declared righteous by means of law; you have fallen away from his undeserved kindness.”—Gal. 5:4; see also Romans 10:2-4. 7. (a) What is not fully appreciated by those who argue for continuance of certain features of the Law? (b) How important are Christian works, and what relation do these have to our receiving the gift of eternal life? 7 Those who argue for continuance of certain features of the Law do not fully appreciate that a righteous standing with God depends, not on one’s works of the Law, but on one’s faith in the value of Jesus’ sacrifice. (Gal. 3:11, 12) They feel that a person must prove himself righteous by such works—something that is impossible for sinful humans. It is, indeed, important to do works in obedience to commands of God and Christ that apply to Christians. (Jas. 2:15-17; Matt. 28:19, 20) These are a means of demonstrating our love and faith, and lack of them would indicate that our faith was dead. But we cannot earn salvation no matter how hard we work. No salvation from sin and death would be possible without the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Thus eternal life is a gift from God through Jesus Christ, an expression of extraordinary undeserved kindness and not payment for our works.—Eph. 2:8, 9; Rom. 3:23, 24; 6:23. 8. What did the first-century governing body decide about the issue involving application of the Mosaic Law to Gentile Christians? 8 When the issue involving application of the Mosaic Law to Gentile Christians was presented to the governing body in Jerusalem in the first century, their decision was in harmony with these facts. They recognized that Jehovah was not requiring Gentile believers to perform works in obedience to the Mosaic Law before holy spirit was poured out on them. The decision of that governing body did list as “necessary things” certain prohibitions that were in harmony with that Law, but these were based on the Bible record concerning events that predated the Law. So there was not an imposing on Gentile Christians of a responsibility to conform to the Mosaic Law or some portion of it but, rather, there was a confirming of standards recognized prior to Moses.—Acts 15:28, 29; compare Genesis 9:3, 4; 34:2-7; 35:2-5. 9. (a) Are Jews still required by God to obey the Mosaic Law? (b) What special provision was made for them by the manner in which Christ died? 9 After Pentecost of 33 C.E. the Jews themselves were no longer required by God to conform to the Mosaic Law code. And those Jews who exercised faith saw special reason to rejoice in this. Why? Although the Gentiles were also sinners and hence dying, the Jews alone had come under God’s curse because of being violators of the Law covenant. But by the manner in which Christ died—impaled on a stake as if he were an accursed criminal—he took the place of those Jews who would put faith in him and provided release for them from the penalty incurred as a result of their disobedience to the Law. (Gal. 3:10-13) Thus he provided for them forgiveness that they could never have had under the Mosaic Law.—Acts 13:38, 39. 10. In what way did removal of the Law prove to be a factor in united worship? 10 The Law had, in fact, fenced the Jews off from the Gentiles. Requirements that did not apply to the Gentiles were laid on the Jews, and uncircumcised Gentiles were barred from sharing fully with the Jews in their worship. (Compare Exodus 12:48; Acts 10:28.) But once the Law had accomplished its purpose and was removed, it was possible for Jews and uncircumcised Gentiles to be united through Christ in worship of the only true God.—Eph. 2:11-18. Knowledge of the Law Benefits Us 11. How does knowledge of the Law help us to understand the teachings of Christ? 11 Although we today are not under the Law, knowledge of it is of great benefit to each one of us. In what way? Remember, Jesus was born to a Jewish mother and came to be under the Mosaic Law. Certain things he did can be fully understood only on the basis of knowledge of the requirements of that Law. (Gal. 4:4; see Luke 22:7, 8.) Also it was among people who were under that Law that he carried on his ministry. So his teachings often were built on circumstances related to the Law.—Compare Matthew 5:23, 24. 12. (a) What connection did Jesus point out between his life and the Mosaic Law? (b) How did the apostle Paul indicate the value of having knowledge of the Law? (c) What can result from our grasping the spiritual significance of its requirements? 12 Following his resurrection, Jesus reminded his disciples that his life as a human had fulfilled the things written about him in the Law, in the Prophets and in the Psalms. (Luke 24:44) Also, the apostle Paul referred to features in connection with the Law covenant as being “a typical representation and a shadow of the heavenly things” and he said that “the Law has a shadow of the good things to come.” (Heb. 8:4, 5; 10:1) Amazing details that find fulfillment in the priesthood of Jesus Christ and in the sacrifice of his human life are embodied in the Mosaic Law. Our grasping these can enrich the meaning of such provisions to us. Among the prophetic patterns are details pointing to the arrangement for worshiping Jehovah acceptably today at his great spiritual temple. As our understanding of these grows, our appreciation for the spirit-anointed congregation and its role under Jesus Christ in connection with our worship will also increase. 13. Why is it beneficial to meditate on the fine principles reflected in the Law? 13 The Mosaic Law is part of the Scriptures inspired by God, all of which are “beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight.” (2 Tim. 3:16) Our searching out and meditating on the enduring principles on which the Law is based can help to build up in us a heartfelt desire to do the things that are pleasing to God. If we perceive the spirit toward which the Law pointed and reflect that spirit in our lives, how beneficial that can be! 14. (a) How did Jesus illustrate the value of grasping the spirit toward which the requirements of the Law pointed? (b) Draw attention to some of the additional fine principles embodied in the Law, as shown on page 152. (c) How can appreciation of these things aid us to be more pleasing to God? 14 Jesus effectively illustrated this in his Sermon on the Mount. Speaking to people then under the Law, he showed that, instead of merely refraining from murder, they needed to root out any tendency to continued wrath and refrain from using their tongue in downgrading speech about their brothers. Instead of being output because they had never committed adultery, they should not even look at a woman lustfully. As was true of them, so, too, we should endeavor to use all our body members in harmony with Jehovah’s righteous ways. (Matt. 5:21, 22, 27-30; see also Romans 13:8-10.) If we do this, we will show that we also understand the meaning of the greatest commandment in the Law: “You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.” (Matt. 22:36, 37) Surely this will draw us closer to Jehovah God. Though we are not under the Mosaic Law code, we will definitely be benefited by accurate knowledge of the principles on which it is based and the prophetic patterns that it contains. Review Discussion ● Why are those who insist on obedience to the Mosaic Law really rejecting Christ? ● How does knowledge of the Law help us to understand Jesus’ role in Jehovah’s purpose? ● Although we are not under the Law, what valuable things can we discern from study of it? [Box on page 152] Some Basic Principles in the Mosaic Law Responsibilities Toward God Worship only Jehovah Ex. 20:3; 22:20 Treat his name with respect Ex. 20:7; Lev. 24:16 Love and serve him with whole heart, Deut. 6:5; 10:12; 30:16soul, vital force Fear to disobey, be in awe of him Deut. 5:29; 6:24 Approach him only in the way he Lev. 1:1-5; Num. 16:1-50;approves Deut. 12:5-14 Give him your best; it came from him Ex. 23:19; 34:26 Worshipers must be physically clean Ex. 19:10, 11; 30:20 Sacred interests not to be pushed aside Ex. 20:8-10; 34:21;for secular pursuits Num. 15:32-36 Forbidden Religious Practices Idolatry Ex. 20:4-6; Deut. 7:25 Interfaith Ex. 23:13; 34:12-15; Deut. 6:14, 15; 13:1-5 Spiritism, sorcery, fortune-telling, Ex. 22:18; Lev. 20:27;divination, magic, casting spells Deut. 18:10-12 Marriage and Family Life Adultery prohibited Ex. 20:14; Lev. 20:10 No marriage to one not serving Jehovah Deut. 7:1-4 Incest forbidden Lev. 18:6-16; 20:11 Avoid sex perversions Lev. 18:23; 20:13 Respect life of unborn child Ex. 21:22, 23 Honor your parents Ex. 20:12; 21:15, 17; Deut. 21:18-21 Teach your children Jehovah’s ways Deut. 6:4-9; 11:18-21 Duties Involving Other Persons Hold human life sacred Ex. 20:13; Num. 35:9-34 Love fellowman; avoid grudges Lev. 19:17, 18 Be considerate of elderly ones Lev. 19:32 Show loving concern for ones in Lev. 25:35-37;economic adversity, orphans, widows Deut. 15:7-11; 24:19-21 No mistreatment of deaf and blind Lev. 19:14; Deut. 27:18 Be honest in business practices Lev. 19:35, 36; 25:14 Respect property rights Ex. 20:15; 22:1, 6; 23:4; Deut. 22:1-3 Do not covet what belongs to others Ex. 20:17 Expose gross wrongdoers Lev. 5:1; Deut. 13:6-11 Be truthful; not bear false witness Ex. 20:16; 23:1, 2 No partiality because of position Ex. 23:3, 6; Lev. 19:15
What Is the Torah?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502016248	What Is the Torah? The Bible’s answer The English word “Torah” comes from the Hebrew word toh·rahʹ, which can be translated as “instruction,” “teaching,” or “law.”a (Proverbs 1:8; 3:1; 28:4) The following examples show how this Hebrew word is used in the Bible. Toh·rahʹ often refers to the first five books of the Bible—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. These are also called the Pentateuch, from a Greek word meaning “fivefold volume.” The Torah was written by Moses, so it is called “the book of the Law of Moses.” (Joshua 8:31; Nehemiah 8:1) Evidently, it was originally written as one book but was later divided for easier handling. Toh·rahʹ is also used for the laws given to Israel on a particular subject, such as “the law [toh·rahʹ] of the sin offering,” “the law about leprosy,” and “the law about the Nazirite.”—Leviticus 6:25; 14:57; Numbers 6:13. Toh·rahʹ sometimes refers to instruction and teaching, whether from parents, wise ones, or God himself.—Proverbs 1:8; 3:1; 13:14; Isaiah 2:3, footnote. What is in the Torah, or Pentateuch? The history of God’s dealings with humankind from creation to the death of Moses.—Genesis 1:27, 28; Deuteronomy 34:5. The regulations of the Mosaic Law. (Exodus 24:3) That Law is made up of more than 600 statutes. Prominent among them is the Shema, or Jewish confession of faith. One portion of the Shema says: “You must love Jehovah your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) Jesus described this as “the greatest and first commandment.”—Matthew 22:36-38. Some 1,800 occurrences of the divine name, Jehovah. Rather than prohibit the use of God’s name, the Torah contains commands that required God’s people to pronounce it.—Numbers 6:22-27; Deuteronomy 6:13; 10:8; 21:5. Misconceptions about the Torah Misconception: The laws of the Torah are eternal, never to be set aside. Fact: Some Bible translations do refer to specific statutes of the Torah—including those related to the Sabbath, the priesthood, and the Day of Atonement—as being “perpetual” or “everlasting.” (Exodus 31:16; 40:15; Leviticus 16:33, 34, King James Version) However, the Hebrew word used in these verses can also mean lasting into the indefinite future, not necessarily lasting forever.b After the Mosaic Law covenant had been in force for about 900 years, God foretold that he would replace it with “a new covenant.” (Jeremiah 31:31-33) By “saying ‘a new covenant,’ [God] made the former [covenant] obsolete.” (Hebrews 8:7-13) It was replaced about 2,000 years ago on the basis of the death of Jesus Christ.—Ephesians 2:15. Misconception: Jewish oral traditions and the Talmud have authority equal to the written Torah. Fact: There is no Scriptural evidence that God gave Moses an oral law to accompany the written Torah. Instead, the Bible states: “Jehovah went on to say to Moses: ‘You are to write down these words.’” (Exodus 34:27) The oral law, later written down and known as the Mishnah and finally expanded into the Talmud, consists of Jewish traditions that began with the Pharisees. These traditions often conflicted with the Torah. For this reason, Jesus told the Pharisees: “You have made the word of God invalid because of your tradition.”—Matthew 15:1-9. Misconception: Women should not be taught the Torah. Fact: The Mosaic Law included a regulation that the entire Law be read to all the people of Israel, including the women and children. Why? “In order that they may listen and learn about and fear Jehovah [their] God and take care to carry out all the words of [the] Law.”—Deuteronomy 31:10-12.c Misconception: The Torah contains hidden messages. Fact: Moses, who recorded the Torah, stated that its message is clear and accessible to all, not hidden in a code. (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) The theory that there are hidden messages in the Torah is rooted in Kabbalah, or traditional Jewish mysticism, which uses “artfully contrived” methods to interpret the Scriptures.d—2 Peter 1:16. a See the Revised Edition of The Strongest Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, entry 8451 in the section “Hebrew-Aramaic Dictionary-Index to the Old Testament.” b See the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, Volume 2, pages 672-673. c In contrast to what the Torah itself teaches, Jewish legal tradition often prohibited women from studying the Torah. For example, the Mishnah quotes Rabbi Eliezer ben Hyrcanus as saying: “Whoever teaches his daughter Torah, it is as though he teaches her obscenity.” (Sotah 3:4) The Jerusalem Talmud includes his statement: “Let the words of the Torah rather be destroyed by fire than imparted to women.”—Sotah 3:19a. d For example, the Encyclopaedia Judaica describes the Kabbalistic attitude toward the Torah: “The Torah does not so much mean anything specific, though it in fact means many different things on many different levels.”—Second edition, Volume 11, page 659.
YOUNG PEOPLE ASK How Can I Control My Emotions?	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/502017169	YOUNG PEOPLE ASK How Can I Control My Emotions? “One day I feel great, and the next day I’m down in the dumps. Things that I viewed as no big deal yesterday become difficult to deal with today.”—Carissa. Do your emotions seem to go up and down like a bumpy road?a If so, this article can help you! Why it happens Three things you can do What your peers say Why it happens Emotional highs and lows are common when you’re going through the changes of puberty. Even when you are well into your teen years, however, you might be surprised at how erratic and unpredictable your emotions can be. If you’re confused by your up-and-down emotions, remember that many of these feelings are due to hormonal changes along with the insecurities and uncertainties that are a normal part of growth. The good news is, you can understand and learn to cope with your emotions. Fact of life: Learning how to control your emotions while you are young is important, because you will need this skill in a variety of circumstances as an adult. Negative emotions are like potholes in a road. With skill, you can avoid the worst ones and smooth out your ride Three things you can do Talk. The Bible says: “A true friend shows love at all times and is a brother who is born for times of distress.”—Proverbs 17:17. “We have a close family friend whom I view as an aunt. She really pays attention to what I have to say, and I feel free to express myself to her. When my viewpoint is right, she is proud of me, and if I’m wrong she corrects me in the best possible way.”—Yolanda. Tip: Rather than talking only to your peers—who may be going through the same emotional ups and downs that you are—talk to a parent or another trusted adult. Write. The Bible tells of Job, who in the depths of despair said: “I will give vent to my complaints. I will speak out in my bitter distress!” (Job 10:1) Besides talking to someone, another way you can “speak out” is by writing about your feelings. “I take a small notepad everywhere. When something happens that upsets me, I write about it. Writing is incredibly therapeutic for me.”—Iliana. Tip: Keep a journal in which you can write about the emotions you feel, what triggered them, and how you might deal with them. The worksheet that accompanies this article can help you do that. Pray. The Bible says: “Throw your burden on Jehovah, and he will sustain you. Never will he allow the righteous one to fall.”—Psalm 55:22. “I pray to Jehovah constantly when I’m distressed. I always feel relief after I pour my heart out to him.”—Jasmine. Tip: Despite the anxiety you feel, think of three things in your life you can be thankful for. When you pray to Jehovah, ask for help—but also express thanks for the blessings you have. What your peers say “Philippians 4:6 tells us to pray about our anxieties ‘along with thanksgiving.’ In my prayers, I try to have a thankful attitude, to look for something new to thank Jehovah for. I feel that this helps lessen my anxiety.”—Daniel. “Sometimes I feel as if I lack the strength to open up to Jehovah, but I do it anyway. Prayer helps me realize how loving Jehovah is and that soon he will ‘wipe out every tear from our eyes,’ as the Bible says at Revelation 21:4.”—Jessica. a This article discusses the emotional upheavals common to many young people. If you are dealing with bipolar disorder or another form of depression, see the article “How Can I Deal With Depression?”
Jehovah’s Day (jd) 2006	https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/publication/r1/lp-e/jd	outputs Page Chapter SECTION 1—God Can Help You Prepare for His Great Day 5 1. Jehovah’s Messages for Then and Now 14 2. Prophets Whose Messages Can Affect Us 29 3. The Day of Jehovah—A Vital Theme SECTION 2—Know Jehovah and Serve Him 43 4. Jehovah—The God Who Foretells and Fulfills 56 5. “Seek Jehovah” Through Worship He Approves 70 6. “Let Justice Roll Forth”—A Key to Knowing God 83 7. Serve Jehovah According to His High Standards SECTION 3—Please God in Your Conduct and Dealings 97 8. ‘What Is Jehovah Asking From You?’ 111 9. Dealing With Others as God Desires 124 10. Contribute to Family Life That Pleases God SECTION 4—Await Jehovah’s Day With Joy 139 11. Jehovah Wants People to Gain Life—Do You? 152 12. “Keep in Expectation of It” 165 13. “Proclaim This, You People, Among the Nations” 179 14. “A Blessing Until There Is No More Want”

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