Yeartext “Trust in Jehovah.”—Psalm 115:11.

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Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.

April 2026 Printing

English (es27-E)

January

1. 4 Ezekiel 11-12

2. 11 Ezekiel 13-14

3. 18 Ezekiel 15-16

4. 25 Ezekiel 17-18

February

1. 1 Ezekiel 19-20

2. 8 Ezekiel 21-22

3. 15 Ezekiel 23-24

4. 22 Ezekiel 25-26

March

1. 1 Ezekiel 27-28

2. 8 Ezekiel 29-30

3. 15 Ezekiel 31-32

4. 22 Week of Memorial

5. 29 Ezekiel 33

April

1. 5 Ezekiel 34

2. 12 Ezekiel 35-36

3. 19 Ezekiel 37

4. 26 Ezekiel 38-39

May

1. 3 Ezekiel 40-41

2. 10 Ezekiel 42-43

3. 17 Ezekiel 44-45

4. 24 Ezekiel 46-47

5. 31 Ezekiel 48

June

1. 7 Daniel 1-2

2. 14 Daniel 3

3. 21 Daniel 4

4. 28 Daniel 5

July

1. 5 Daniel 6

2. 12 Daniel 7-8

3. 19 Daniel 9-10

4. 26 Daniel 11-12

August

1. 2 Hosea 1-3

2. 9 Hosea 4-7

3. 16 Hosea 8-10

4. 23 Hosea 11-14

5. 30 Joel 1-3

September

1. 6 Amos 1-3

2. 13 Amos 4-6

3. 20 Amos 7-9

4. 27 Obadiah 1-21

October

1. 4 Jonah 1-4

2. 11 Micah 1-3

3. 18 Micah 4-5

4. 25 Micah 6-7

November

1. 1 Nahum 1-3

2. 8 Habakkuk 1-3

3. 15 Zephaniah 1-3

4. 22 Haggai 1-2

5. 29 Zechariah 1-4

December

1. 6 Zechariah 5-8

2. 13 Zechariah 9-11

3. 20 Zechariah 12-14

4. 27 Malachi 1-4

In this booklet, you will find a scripture and comments for each day. 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.

If you would like a deeper understanding of the subject, review the comment in the context of the Watchtower article from which it was taken. The citation at the end of each comment identifies the source of the information. For example, the citation “w25.04 3 ¶8” refers to the reference described in the table below.

As the Creator and the Sovereign of the universe, Jehovah could force people to serve him. However, Jehovah will never do that. Instead, he provides us with evidence that he exists and that he loves each one of us dearly. He wants as many people as possible to be his friends forever. (1 Tim. 2:3, 4) To that end, Jehovah has trained us to teach others about his purposes and to tell them about the good things he will do for mankind. (Matt. 10:11-13; 28:19, 20) He has organized us into congregations and has arranged for loving overseers to care for us.​—Acts 20:28. w25.04 3 ¶8

The best time to progress toward baptism is right now. (Read 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.) The Ethiopian eunuch whom Philip met recognized the need for urgent action. Once he understood the good news and had the opportunity to get baptized, he did not think to himself: ‘I would like to learn more about the good news first. There will be another body of water farther along the road.’ Instead he asked Philip, “What prevents me from getting baptized?” (Acts 8:26, 27, 35-39) What a fine example! After the eunuch got baptized, he “went on his way rejoicing.” w26.02 19 ¶16

SOME 17 years have passed since Jehovah’s faithful servant Jacob traveled from Canaan to Egypt with his household. (Gen. 47:28) During that time, he experienced the great joy of being reunited with his beloved son Joseph and finally seeing his family together again. But now, Jacob senses that his life is coming to an end. So he calls an important family meeting.​—Gen. 49:28.

In those days, it was common for a dying family head to gather the members of his family together to give them his final instructions. (Isa. 38:1) He might at that meeting also indicate who would be the head of the family after his death.

Read Genesis 49:1, 2. But this was no ordinary family meeting. Jacob was a prophet. During this meeting, Jehovah inspired his servant to speak about important future events that would greatly affect his descendants. For that reason, Jacob’s words are sometimes referred to as his deathbed prophecy. w25.06 2 ¶1-3

WHEN Jehovah drew you to the truth, he invited you into a diverse and loving family of worshippers, which includes millions of faithful angels. (Dan. 7:9, 10) As we think of angels, we may reflect on how different they are from us. For example, the angels have existed far longer than we have been alive. (Job 38:4, 7) They are more powerful than we are. And they are holy and righteous to a degree that we cannot reach as imperfect humans.​—Luke 9:26.

However, despite these differences, we have a lot in common with the angels. For example, like the angels, we can reflect Jehovah’s fine qualities. We have free will, as do the angels. Much like them, we have personal names and distinct personalities as well as various responsibilities. And, similar to the angels, we have a need to worship our Creator.​—1 Pet. 1:12. w25.05 2 ¶1-2

Rehoboam succeeded King Solomon as ruler of Israel. Rehoboam inherited a nation that had been prosperous, but the people felt that Solomon had demanded too much from them. The people came to Rehoboam and pleaded with him to lighten their burden. Rehoboam asked them to give him time to think about the decision he would make. He started well, asking for counsel from the older men who had helped Solomon. (1 Ki. 12:2-7) However, he rejected the advice given by these older men. Why would he do that? Had Rehoboam already decided what he was going to do and was just looking for someone to agree with him? If so, he found that confirmation in the advice that he received from his younger friends. (1 Ki. 12:8-14) Rehoboam answered his subjects according to that advice. As a result, the nation split, and from then on, Rehoboam had constant trouble.​—1 Ki. 12:16-19. w25.07 4-5 ¶12

Although Paul sometimes felt discouraged, he was able to remain positive. For example, he enjoyed receiving good reports from his traveling companions. (2 Cor. 7:6, 7) He found joy in his friendships with fellow believers. (2 Tim. 1:4) And he knew that he had Jehovah’s approval. Yes, Paul was happy because he could serve God “with a clean conscience.” (2 Tim. 1:3) Even when he was imprisoned in Rome, Paul urged his fellow believers to “rejoice in the Lord.” (Phil. 4:4) His words hardly sound like those of someone overcome by negative thoughts. Clearly, when negative thinking came into his mind, Paul was able to work through it so that he could be positive again. w26.01 10 ¶9

You should also avoid rationalizing. The Bible says: “The heart is more treacherous than anything else and is desperate.” (Jer. 17:9) Jesus said that it produces “wicked reasonings.” (Matt. 15:19) For example, a person who has stopped viewing pornography may, after a time, think that it is “safe” to look at sexually arousing photos because they do not contain outright nudity. Or he might reason, ‘There is nothing wrong with fantasizing about improper desires as long as I don’t carry them out.’ In a sense, that person’s treacherous heart is “planning ahead for the desires of the flesh.” (Rom. 13:14) How can you avoid doing that? Be aware of and avoid making small unwise decisions that will lead you to making big unwise decisions, such as giving in to wrongdoing. Reject also any thoughts, or “wicked reasonings,” that tend to excuse wrong behavior. w25.08 25 ¶19

The disciple James introduces the subject of God’s arrangement for spiritual assistance by asking: “Is there anyone sick among you? Let him call the elders of the congregation.” (Read James 5:14-16, 19, 20.) The context shows that James is speaking of spiritual sickness. For instance, the sick one is told to call, not a doctor, but the elders. And spiritual sickness is implied because the healing can involve the forgiveness of sins. In some respects, the steps needed to treat spiritual sickness are similar to those needed for physical ailments. When we are physically sick, we visit a doctor, explain our symptoms, and follow his directions. Likewise, when we are spiritually ailing, we should approach an elder, describe our situation, and act on the Scriptural counsel we receive. w25.09 3 ¶4

JEHOVAH has created humans with certain basic needs. For example, to sustain our life, we need food, clothing, and shelter. If we lack any one of these necessities, even for a brief time, life becomes a trial. In addition to creating us with a need for those material things, Jehovah has also created us with a spiritual need. (Read Matthew 5:3.) If we want to be truly happy, we have to be aware of that need and then continue to satisfy it. w26.01 2 ¶1

From among all of Jehovah’s creations, Jesus is the happiest. Why? Consider two reasons. (1) “He is the image of the invisible God” and perfectly reflects his Father’s personality in every way. (Col. 1:15; see “happy” study note on 1 Timothy 6:15.) (2) Jesus has spent the most time with his Father, who is the Source of happiness.

Jesus has always found joy in doing whatever his Father asks him to do. (Prov. 8:30, 31; John 8:29) As a result of his faithful course, he has the favor and the approval of Jehovah.​—Matt. 3:17. w25.10 7 ¶5-6

Perhaps you are saddened by the possibility that the end of this system will not come in your lifetime. If you feel that way, what can help? Try to remember that Jehovah is patiently waiting to bring an end to this wicked world. (Isa. 30:18) But his patience is not without purpose. His patience is allowing millions of people the time and the opportunity to come to know him and serve him. (2 Pet. 3:9) So when you feel discouraged, try to think about how many people will benefit from Jehovah’s patience before the end comes. Might some of them be members of your own family? w25.11 4 ¶7

HAVE you recently had the pleasure of reading the book of Job? Though written some 3,500 years ago, this ancient book is often counted among the masterpieces of world literature. Commenting on its simple structure, beautiful style, and expressive language, one reference work calls its writer “a literary genius.” Moses was the man who penned this remarkable book, but the real Author is Jehovah God.​—2 Tim. 3:16.

The book of Job is a key part of the Bible. Why? For one thing, it clearly reveals the great issue facing all intelligent creation​—the sanctification of Jehovah’s name. It also teaches us about Jehovah’s marvelous qualities, such as his love, wisdom, justice, and power. For example, the book of Job refers to Jehovah as “the Almighty” 31 times, more than the rest of the Scriptures combined. The book of Job also answers many of life’s questions, including one that still troubles many: Why does God allow suffering? w25.12 2 ¶1-2

The Christians who fled to the mountains applied Paul’s counsel to “be obedient to those who are taking the lead” in the congregation. (Read Hebrews 13:7, 17.) As a result, God’s people survived. History confirms that God did not abandon those “awaiting the city having real foundations”​—God’s Kingdom.​—Heb. 11:10.

Lesson for us: Jehovah uses those taking the lead to provide his people with specific direction. The Scriptures are filled with examples of how Jehovah has raised up shepherds to guide his people during critical times. (Deut. 31:23; Ps. 77:20) And we today have seen ample evidence that Jehovah continues to use those taking the lead. w25.05 17 ¶11-12

Jesus cared about his listeners, and they could see this in the way that he treated them. How different he was from the Pharisees, who looked down on the common people and viewed them as contemptible! (Matt. 23:13; John 7:49) But Jesus treated people with kindness and respect. He was “mild-tempered and lowly in heart,” and that contributed to his being an effective teacher. (Read Matthew 11:28-30.) We too should treat our listeners with kindness and respect. w26.03 4 ¶5

Drawing closer to our brothers and sisters can serve as a protection. Paul admonished fellow Christians: “Keep on encouraging one another each day . . . so that none of you should become hardened by the deceptive power of sin.” (Heb. 3:13) If we become so discouraged that our feet are beginning to stray from the path of righteousness, Jehovah may move an observant fellow believer to provide the help we need. (Ps. 73:2, 17, 23) Such encouragement is indeed good for us.

We belong to a group of people who work hard to show love to one another, so we enjoy many blessings. (1 John 4:11) For instance, love moves us to “continue putting up with one another,” and that contributes to our Christian unity. (Read Colossians 3:13, 14; Eph. 4:2-6) Thus, at our meetings, we enjoy a pleasant atmosphere matched by no other group on earth. w25.04 16 ¶6-7

Jehovah also calmed the exiles’ fears by reminding them of his unlimited power and knowledge. He invited the Jewish exiles to look up at the starry heavens. He told them that he not only created the stars but also knew all the stars by name. (Isa. 40:25-28) How much more so, then, does he know the personal name of each of his servants! And if Jehovah had the power to create the stars, he definitely has the power to help his people. Yes, the Jewish exiles had no reason to be anxious or afraid. w25.05 12 ¶14

We do well to focus on what we do know​—that the last days began in 1914. Jehovah has provided Bible prophecies that not only pinpoint that year but also describe in detail the conditions that have prevailed since then. As a result, we are convinced that “the great day of Jehovah is near.” (Zeph. 1:14) We also know the work that Jehovah wants us to do, namely, to tell as many as possible about the “good news of the Kingdom.” (Matt. 24:14) This message is being declared in some 240 lands and in more than 1,000 languages. We do not need to know the “day and hour” in order to have a zealous share in this vital work. w25.06 15-16 ¶7

As Jehovah’s Witnesses, we are thrilled when our understanding of a Scriptural truth is clarified. Yet, we are also deeply grateful for the fundamental Bible teachings that drew us to the truth in the first place. If we are ever tempted to insist on our own opinion rather than to submit to guidance from Jehovah’s organization, we can humbly remember who is directing that organization​—the almighty and all-wise Creator. When we or a loved one is enduring a trial, we can be patient and reflect on why Jehovah has allowed suffering. And when deciding where to focus our time and resources, we can recall the urgency of these last days. May Jehovah’s reminders continue to strengthen us, motivate us, and make us wise. w25.07 18-19 ¶17

By accepting Jehovah’s forgiveness, we can avoid falling into one of Satan’s traps. Remember that Satan will do anything he can to stop us from serving Jehovah. To achieve his goal, Satan may try to get us to believe that our sins are unforgivable. Consider the experience of the man in Corinth who was removed from the congregation for sexual immorality. (1 Cor. 5:1, 5, 13) When he later repented, Satan wanted those in the congregation to be unforgiving​—so harsh that they would not welcome the man back. At the same time, Satan wanted the repentant man to feel unforgivable​—so “overwhelmed by excessive sadness” that he would stop serving Jehovah. Satan has not changed his goal or his tactics. But “we are not ignorant of his designs.”​—2 Cor. 2:5-11. w25.08 15 ¶5

The primary reason why Jesus chose to serve Jehovah is love​—Jesus has a deep and unbreakable affection for his Father. (John 14:31) In addition, Jesus serves Jehovah because it is the right thing to do. (John 8:28, 29; Rev. 4:11) He knows that Jehovah is the Source of life and that He is trustworthy and generous. (Ps. 33:4; 36:9; Jas. 1:17) Jehovah had always spoken the truth to Jesus and had given him everything he possessed. (John 1:14) Satan, by contrast, has caused death. He is a liar who is motivated by greed and self-interest. (John 8:44) Knowing these facts, Jesus never even considered imitating Satan by rebelling against Jehovah.​—Phil. 2:5-8. w25.04 3 ¶4

The Bible gives us the reason why it is understandable for us to be disturbed by injustice. It explains that Jehovah created us in his image and that he “loves righteousness and justice.” (Ps. 33:5; Gen. 1:26) He never acts unjustly, and he does not want anyone else to act that way! (Deut. 32:3, 4; Mic. 6:8; Zech. 7:9) For example, during the time of the prophet Isaiah, Jehovah heard “a cry of distress” from many Israelites who were being mistreated by their countrymen. (Read Isaiah 5:7.) Jehovah took action by punishing those who repeatedly ignored his Law and treated others unfairly.​—Isa. 5:5, 13. w25.09 8-9 ¶3

When we speak openly to Jehovah by sharing our inner thoughts and deep feelings with him, our prayers become more meaningful. So, what can we do to improve the depth of our prayers?

Reflect on Jehovah’s qualities. The more we reflect on his qualities, the more we will be able to express our thoughts freely. (Ps. 145:8, 9, 18) Consider the example of Kristine, a sister who had a violent father. She explains: “Talking to Jehovah as a Father was not easy for me. I felt that my imperfections would cause him to abandon me.” What quality of Jehovah has helped her? She says: “Jehovah’s loyal love makes me feel safe. I know that he will not let go of my hand. Even if I fall, he will lovingly pick me up. This helps me to express my deepest joys to him as well as my deepest sorrows.” w25.10 19 ¶6-7

In connection with family opposition, encourage your student to think about why his relatives may be upset. They may think that he has been misled, or they may simply be prejudiced against Jehovah’s Witnesses. Even Jesus faced negative reactions from those he loved. (Mark 3:21; John 7:5) Teach your student to remain patient and tactful with others, including family members.

Even when relatives show interest, a student is wise not to explain everything all at once. Otherwise, his loved ones may feel overwhelmed and, as a result, be reluctant to have another conversation. So encourage your student to share his beliefs in a way that leaves the door open for future conversations. (Col. 4:6) Perhaps he could invite his relatives to visit jw.org. This would allow them to learn more about Jehovah’s Witnesses at their own pace. w25.06 23-24 ¶15-16

From the very start, your goal should be to help your listener to come to know Jehovah and Jesus and to develop love for them. You do this by directing attention to God’s Word instead of to yourself and your Bible knowledge. (Acts 10:25, 26) The apostle Paul often focused his teaching on Jesus Christ, the one whom Jehovah sent to help us to know and love Him. (1 Cor. 2:1, 2) Paul also made it clear how important it is to help new disciples to develop fine qualities, which can be compared to gold, silver, and precious stones. (1 Cor. 3:11-15) Such valuable qualities include faith, wisdom, discernment, and the fear of Jehovah. (Ps. 19:9, 10; Prov. 3:13-15; 1 Pet. 1:7) Imitate Paul’s method of teaching by helping your students to develop a strong faith and a personal relationship with their loving heavenly Father.​—2 Cor. 1:24. w25.09 23-24 ¶12

Many of us have experienced a change in circumstances, such as moving away from a cherished home and leaving behind family and friends. Such changes can be challenging. But no human has dealt with changes like those Jesus experienced. In heaven, he was the most prominent of Jehovah’s spirit sons. He basked in Jehovah’s love and was always joyful as he served at God’s “right hand.” (Ps. 16:11; Prov. 8:30) Yet, Philippians 2:7 says that he willingly “emptied himself,” giving up his exalted position in heaven to live among imperfect humans on earth.

Consider, too, the circumstances surrounding Jesus’ birth and early life as a human. Jesus was born into a poor family, as shown by the humble sacrifice his parents offered after he was born. (Lev. 12:8; Luke 2:24) Learning of Jesus’ birth, wicked King Herod tried to kill Jesus. To get away from Herod’s clutches, the family became refugees in Egypt for a time. (Matt. 2:13, 15) What a change from Jesus’ prehuman existence! w25.11 16-17 ¶3-4

Prayerfully analyze your personal needs. King David was aware that Jehovah knew him well. So David asked Jehovah to help him identify the cause of his “anxious thoughts.” (Read Psalm 139:1-4, 23, 24.) You too can ask Jehovah to help you identify the cause of your negative thoughts and understand how to overcome them. You might also ask yourself such questions as: ‘What seems to be the root cause of my anxious thoughts? Is there something that triggers my negative thinking? Do I tend to dwell on the negative thought rather than dismiss it?’ w26.01 11-12 ¶16

ALL of us want to make wise decisions. And all of us want our plans to succeed. God’s Word tells us how we can achieve both of those goals.​—Read Proverbs 13:10; 15:22.

Of course, the best Person we can go to for wisdom and advice is our Father, Jehovah. He promises to help us, saying: “I will give you advice with my eye upon you.” (Ps. 32:8) This statement shows that Jehovah does more than just give us advice​—he takes a personal interest in us and helps us to apply his counsel. w25.07 2 ¶1-2

In the name of the Son. We recognize Jesus as the only-begotten Son of God. Jesus is “the way,” the only one through whom we can have a good relationship with Jehovah. (John 14:6) Jesus is also our Redeemer, the one who died for us so that we might gain life. That knowledge moves us to follow his example every day of our life, not just when we get baptized. (1 John 2:6) So we zealously preach, as he did, letting nothing deter us. (Luke 4:43) We are even willing to endure persecution for loyally serving God. (2 Tim. 3:12) We respect Jesus as the “head of the congregation,” so we gladly submit to those whom he entrusts to take the lead and to care for his followers.​—Eph. 4:8, 11, 12; 5:23. w26.02 12 ¶13

During the last days, many have experienced Jehovah’s saving power. For example, in 1945 there were 230 of Jehovah’s Witnesses who survived an infamous Nazi death march from a concentration camp. They wrote these words in a resolution regarding their terrifying experience: “A long hard period of testing lies behind us and those who have been preserved, snatched as it were from the fiery furnace, do not even have the smell of fire on them. . . . To the contrary, they are full of strength and power from Jehovah.” They added: “We have only one desire . . . [after] our stay in the lions’ den, that we be permitted to serve Jehovah . . . for all eternity. That would be in itself our greatest reward.”​—Compare Daniel 3:27; 6:22. w26.03 10 ¶12

Jesus imitates his Father. While on earth, Jesus did not withhold good from others when it was reasonable to help them. For example, he healed people on the Sabbath despite the objections of his hardhearted opposers. (Read Mark 3:1-6.) Jesus continues to be reasonable as head of the Christian congregation. For instance, when someone in the congregation commits a serious sin, he is patient with him, giving him ample opportunity to correct his course.​—Rev. 2:2-5. w25.12 16 ¶8

According to one reference, serving, or ministering to, others implies reaching out to help them “with diligence and persistence.” Mark set a good example in this regard. When Paul refused to take him along on a second missionary trip, Mark was likely hurt and disappointed. (Acts 15:37, 38) But that did not discourage Mark from serving his brothers and sisters.

Mark accepted an assignment of service with his cousin Barnabas. Some 11 years later, Mark was among those who supported Paul during his first imprisonment in Rome. (Philem. 23, 24) In fact, Paul appreciated his support so much that he described Mark as “a source of great comfort.”​—Col. 4:10, 11. w25.04 27 ¶4-5

Like Jesus, we serve Jehovah primarily out of deep love and affection for Him. (Read Matthew 22:37.) We feel drawn to Jehovah when we learn about his qualities. For example, consider Jehovah’s patience with us. When the Israelites disobeyed him, he pleaded with them: “Turn back, please, from your bad ways.” (Jer. 18:11) Jehovah remembers that we are imperfect, that we are dust. (Read Psalm 103:13, 14.) When you meditate on Jehovah’s patience and his other appealing qualities, are you not moved to serve him forever? w25.04 4 ¶10

Consider one event that illustrates the angels’ humility. In about 96 C.E., an unnamed angel delivered an awe-inspiring vision to the apostle John. (Rev. 1:1) How did John react to the vision? He tried to worship the angel. However, that loyal spirit creature quickly stopped him, saying: “Be careful! Do not do that! I am only a fellow slave of you and of your brothers . . . Worship God!” (Rev. 19:10) What a humble response! The angel was not interested in glory or admiration. He immediately turned John’s attention to Jehovah God. At the same time, the angel did not look down on John. Although the angel had served Jehovah for much longer and was much more powerful than John, he humbly referred to the apostle as his fellow slave. And even though the angel had to correct John, he did not scold him or treat the elderly apostle harshly. Instead, the angel spoke kindly. He likely recognized that John was filled with awe. w25.05 3 ¶5

Satan would like us to feel not only powerless but also hopeless​—as if Jehovah would condemn us simply for having wrong desires. Again, think of the irony. Satan is the one who is hopeless, judged by Jehovah as unworthy of eternal life. (Gen. 3:15; Rev. 20:10) Satan no doubt wants us to feel hopeless too​—especially since we have the prospect of attaining the very blessing that he has been denied. However, we are not hopeless. In fact, the Bible assures us that Jehovah wants to help us, not condemn us. He “does not desire anyone to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance.”​—2 Pet. 3:9.

Really, then, if we believe that we are either powerless or hopeless in our fight against wrong desires, we are thinking the way Satan would like us to think. Realizing that can help us strengthen our resolve to take a firm stand against him.​—1 Pet. 5:8, 9. w25.08 22 ¶6-7

Jacob first addresses Reuben, saying: “You are my firstborn.” (Gen. 49:3) As firstborn, Reuben likely expected to receive a double portion of his father’s belongings. He may also have expected to become the head of the family after his father’s death and to have that privilege passed on to his own offspring in time.

However, Reuben lost out on receiving the right of firstborn. (1 Chron. 5:1) Why? Some years earlier he had sexual relations with Jacob’s concubine Bilhah. She had been the maidservant of Jacob’s beloved wife, Rachel, who had died. (Gen. 35:19, 22) Reuben was the son of Jacob’s other wife, Leah. Perhaps Reuben was driven by lust. Or possibly he violated Bilhah to prevent her from taking his mother’s place in Jacob’s affections. In any event, what he did was very displeasing to Jehovah and to his father.​—Read Genesis 49:3, 4. w25.06 3-4 ¶5-6

Read Jeremiah 12:1. At one point in his life, the prophet Jeremiah was troubled to see the wicked succeed. He was also affected by the way fellow Israelites treated him. (Jer. 20:7, 8) We can relate to him when we see dishonest people prosper or when we are ridiculed. Although Jeremiah expressed his frustration, he did not question God’s justice. As he saw how Jehovah disciplined His rebellious people, his confidence in God’s justice must have increased. (Jer. 32:19) We too can openly express our frustrations in prayer, trusting that Jehovah will in his due time correct any injustices we now face. w25.10 21 ¶15

Imagine that a brother has received an attractive job offer. Before he accepts it, he asks an elder for advice. The brother mentions that the job would require him to be away from his family for extended periods of time. The elder reminds the brother of the Bible principle that his primary responsibility is to provide for his family’s spiritual needs. (Eph. 6:4; 1 Tim. 5:8) Suppose that the brother immediately finds fault with the elder’s words and asks other brothers about the matter until he is told what he wants to hear. Is the brother really seeking advice, or has he already made up his mind and is just looking for someone to agree with him? We must remember that our heart is treacherous. (Jer. 17:9) Sometimes, the advice we need the most is the advice we want to hear the least. w25.07 5-6 ¶14

Of course, those who have committed a serious sin, one that could lead to a person’s being removed from the congregation, should approach an elder. (1 Cor. 5:11-13) Any who have succumbed to serious sin need help to repair their relationship with Jehovah. To gain Jehovah’s forgiveness through the ransom, we must display “works that befit repentance.” (Acts 26:20) Those works include approaching the elders if we have committed a serious sin. w25.09 4 ¶6

What can help us recover our joy? We can recover our joy by being realistic and grateful. The world promotes the idea that our life has to be picture-perfect for us to be happy. But this is not true. For example, Jehovah instructed the Jewish exiles in Babylon to accept their new reality as captives in a foreign land and to do their best under those difficult circumstances. (Read Jeremiah 29:4-7, 10.) The lesson? Try to accept your circumstances, and be grateful for the good things in your life. Remember, Jehovah will help you along the way. (Ps. 63:7; 146:5) Effie, who was in an accident that left her paralyzed, says: “I received a lot of help and support from Jehovah, my family, and the congregation. So I felt that it would be ungrateful of me if I just gave up. I want to show my gratitude to Jehovah and to the friends for their immense help.” w25.10 8-9 ¶9

No matter our age, when we are not feeling well, we are more likely to say or do things that we regret. (Eccl. 7:7; Jas. 3:2) For example, when the faithful man Job was suffering, his words became “wild talk.” (Job 6:1-3) Additionally, a medical condition may cause older ones to do or say things that are out of character for them. Of course, none of us would intentionally use our age or our health as an excuse to be unkind or demanding. And if we realize that we have said something unloving to someone, we should not hesitate to apologize.​—Matt. 5:23, 24. w25.11 4-5 ¶8

We live in urgent times. The apostle Paul wrote: “For yet ‘a very little while,’ and ‘the one who is coming will arrive and will not delay.’” (Heb. 10:37) How does this affect us? For one thing, the time left for people to choose to serve Jehovah is reduced. (1 Cor. 7:29) And if we have already made the choice to serve God, we know that although we will have to endure trials, it will be only for “a very little while.”

Jesus encouraged his disciples not merely to start following him but also to keep following him. (Matt. 16:24) So if we have been serving Jehovah for years, may we be resolved not to give up. We have to work hard to keep living up to our decision to serve him. It may not be easy, but what blessings and satisfaction we can enjoy, even now!​—Ps. 35:27. w25.04 6-7 ¶17-18

During the time that the Israelites were suffering as slaves in Egypt, a man named Job was living in the land of Uz, possibly located east of the Promised Land and somewhere in the north of Arabia. In stark contrast to the Israelites who had begun worshipping idols in Egypt, Job served Jehovah faithfully. (Josh. 24:14; Ezek. 20:8) Jehovah said of Job: “There is no one like him on the earth.” (Job 1:8) Job was extremely wealthy and enjoyed great prestige​—greater than that of any other person of the East. (Job 1:3) How infuriated Satan must have been to see this prominent and influential man serving God with integrity! w25.12 3 ¶4

To please God, we must take advantage of another of Jehovah’s provisions: spiritual clothing. What do we mean by that? The apostle Paul wrote that we must “strip off the old personality” and clothe ourselves with “the new personality.” (Read Colossians 3:8-10.) Clothing ourselves in such a way can be an ongoing challenge. Consider Paul’s own example. From a young age, he worked hard to gain God’s favor. (Gal. 1:14; Phil. 3:4, 5) But he lacked accurate knowledge of God’s purpose and was thus in a poor spiritual condition. His ignorance of Christ’s teachings, coupled with pride, made him “an insolent man” who was clothed in negative personality traits.​—1 Tim. 1:13. w26.01 5 ¶10

How can we imitate Jehovah? We must humbly work to cultivate Jehovah’s reasonable way of thinking and acting. (Jas. 3:17) For example, reasonable parents, while not permissive, do not expect more from their children than the young ones can give. That is well-illustrated by Jacob, as seen in the account found at Genesis 33:12-14. Humble and reasonable parents should also try to avoid unfairly comparing one child with another. Christian elders too must be reasonable. One way they can do this is by yielding to the decision of the majority on the body when doing so does not violate Bible principles. (1 Tim. 3:2, 3) And all of us can try to understand the viewpoint of others even if we see things differently. (Rom. 14:1) Yes, everyone in the congregation should strive to let his “reasonableness become known to all men.”​—Phil. 4:5. w25.12 16-17 ¶9

If you previously got baptized as an adherent of another religion, you still need to get baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Why? Because you did not then sufficiently understand the truth about Jehovah God and Jesus. And even if you dedicated yourself to God in prayer, your promise would not have been based on a correct understanding of his will. When the apostle Paul met men in Ephesus who previously got baptized without having the needed understanding of Christian teaching, he arranged for them to get rebaptized. (Acts 19:1-5) Likewise today, baptism is valid only if it is based on an accurate knowledge of God’s will. w26.02 11 ¶10

In his second inspired letter, Peter explained how we should view the timing of Jehovah’s coming day of judgment. For Christians living in the first century, that day was still in the far distant future; yet, Peter told them to “keep close in mind,” or “eagerly desire,” that day. (Read 2 Peter 3:10-13; ftn.) We can keep that day close in mind by being ready and eager for it to come. We show our eagerness by performing “holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion.” Think of how it would please Jehovah to see you performing “deeds of godly devotion”! He would surely be delighted to see you dedicate yourself to him and get baptized. w26.02 18-19 ¶15

Discontentment can lead to serious consequences. Those who are never satisfied with what they have may work extremely long hours to obtain material things that are not really needed. Sadly, a few Christians have even stolen money and other things they desired. They may have told themselves, ‘I deserve it,’ ‘I have waited long enough,’ or ‘I will pay the money back later.’ Yet, stealing of any kind displeases and dishonors Jehovah. (Prov. 30:9) Others have become so disappointed at not receiving a privilege of service that they have given up serving Jehovah altogether. (Gal. 6:9) How could a dedicated worshipper of Jehovah even think of doing that? The problem may be that the person has stopped cultivating contentment. w25.07 20 ¶2

Lesson for us: Love motivates us to support fellow worshippers when they need our help. Many of God’s people have been willing to care for the spiritual and material needs of their brothers and sisters who have become refugees because of recent wars and natural disasters. A Ukrainian sister who left her home because of war said: “We have felt Jehovah’s hand guiding us and helping us by means of our brothers. They have welcomed us and helped us so well in Ukraine, in Hungary, and now here in Germany.” Those who show hospitality to their brothers and sisters and care for their needs are tools in Jehovah’s hands.​—Prov. 19:17; 2 Cor. 1:3, 4.

No doubt the need for such assistance will be far greater in the future than it is today. (Hab. 3:16-18) Jehovah is training us now to cultivate brotherly love and hospitality, qualities that will be absolutely vital at that time. w25.05 18-19 ¶16-17

KING David knew what it is like to feel guilty for past sins. (Ps. 40:12; 51:3; superscription) He made some serious mistakes in his life. Yet, he showed sincere repentance, and Jehovah forgave him. (2 Sam. 12:13) As a result, David also understood the relief that comes from receiving Jehovah’s forgiveness.​—Ps. 32:1.

Like David, we can experience the relief that comes from receiving Jehovah’s mercy. What a comfort it is to know that Jehovah is willing to forgive our sins​—even serious ones—​if we sincerely repent, confess our sins, and do our best not to repeat our mistakes! (Prov. 28:13; Acts 26:20; 1 John 1:9) And how reassuring to know that he forgives so completely that it is as if the sin had never even happened!​—Ezek. 33:16. w25.08 14 ¶1-2

Like Jehovah, Jesus loves justice and hates injustice. On one occasion during his earthly ministry, he saw a man with a disability​—a withered hand. Jesus was moved to help him, but the coldhearted religious leaders felt very differently. They were more concerned with enforcing their rigid interpretation of the Sabbath law than with helping the disadvantaged man. How did Jesus feel about their reaction? He was “thoroughly grieved at the insensibility of their hearts.”​—Mark 3:1-6.

Given that both Jehovah and Jesus are angered by injustice, it is not wrong for us to feel that way too. (Eph. 4:26 and study note “Be wrathful”) Yet, we must remember that any anger we feel​—even if it is justified—​will not fix injustice. In fact, prolonged or uncontrolled anger may harm us emotionally and physically. (Ps. 37:1, 8; Jas. 1:20) So how should we deal with injustice? We can learn from Jesus’ example. w25.09 9 ¶4-5

Jesus did not rely on his own knowledge. His teaching was based on God’s Word, which he applied in ways that his audience could easily grasp and remember. The Bible tells us that Jesus taught “as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” The people “were astounded” by that. (Mark 1:22; see study note on “not as the scribes.”) To support their teachings, the scribes in Jesus’ day would quote highly respected rabbis. In contrast, Jesus freely quoted from the inspired Scriptures. As the Son of God who previously lived in heaven, he could have used his vast wisdom to impress his listeners and even overwhelm them. But he did not. Instead, he centered his teaching on God’s will and Word. (Read John 7:14-16.) Jesus set an outstanding example for his followers. w26.03 5 ¶7

Think about what to say. Before praying, you might ask yourself a number of questions. For example: ‘What specific problems am I dealing with right now? Is there anyone I need to forgive? Am I facing a new challenge that I need Jehovah’s help to overcome?’ (2 Ki. 19:15-19) We can also follow the pattern that Jesus set by thinking about what we can ask Jehovah regarding His name, His Kingdom, and His will.​—Matt. 6:9, 10. w25.10 19 ¶8

While on earth, Jesus saw suffering all around him. He undoubtedly experienced the loss of loved ones, apparently including his adoptive father, Joseph. During his ministry, Jesus came in contact with lepers, blind people, paralytics, and bereaved parents, and he felt compassion for them. (Matt. 9:2, 6; 15:30; 20:34; Mark 1:40, 41; Luke 7:13) True, he had seen suffering from his exalted heavenly position. But now, as a man on earth, he observed mankind’s pain from a new perspective. (Isa. 53:4) Jesus’ experiences on earth helped him to understand the feelings, frustrations, and pains of mankind. He personally experienced feelings and emotions common to humans, including anguish, weariness, and grief. w25.11 17-18 ¶5

Adapt your personal Bible study to your needs. From time to time, you may find it beneficial to study some aspects of Jehovah’s personality. For example, the apostle Paul greatly benefited from reflecting on the ransom and on Jehovah’s forgiveness. You can do the same. Use the Research Guide for Jehovah’s Witnesses, Watch Tower Publications Index, or other Bible study aids available in your language to explore such topics as God’s mercy, forgiveness, and loyal love. Once you have found articles that would benefit you, make a list of them. Post the list where you can see it, and study the articles from your list when you start to feel down. Try to apply what you read to your own circumstances.​—Phil. 4:8. w26.01 12 ¶17

Consider what we can learn from the example of King David. His achievements could have made him become proud. Long before he ascended to the throne, he was famous for his ability as a musician. He was even asked to perform for the king. (1 Sam. 16:18, 19) After anointing David as the next king, Jehovah empowered him with His holy spirit. (1 Sam. 16:11-13) He was popular among his people for striking down their enemies, including the Philistine giant Goliath. (1 Sam. 17:37, 50; 18:7) A proud man who had achieved such great things could have thought that he had no need to listen to advice from others. But not David. w25.07 3 ¶5

WHEN was the last time you fought a distraction? Perhaps something drew your attention away from what you were doing and you needed to decide which was more important. For example, imagine that your cell phone rings while you are driving. The call may be important, but you recognize that at that moment it is a distraction. Concentrating on your driving is more important.

Our lives are filled with activities that are important. We know that concentrating on our spiritual activities and routine is most important. (Matt. 6:33) Jehovah’s people, like careful drivers, try to identify what could distract them from concentrating on the road ahead.​—Prov. 4:25; Matt. 6:22. w26.03 14 ¶1-2

“Train yourself with godly devotion as your aim.” (1 Tim. 4:7b) What is godly devotion? It is a personal attachment to Jehovah along with a desire to do what pleases him. Since we are not born with this quality, we need to cultivate it. How? The Greek word rendered “train yourself” was often used to describe the rigorous training of athletes who prepared for a contest. These athletes needed self-discipline. We too need self-discipline in order to develop habits that will draw us closer to Jehovah. w25.04 30 ¶13

Jesus urged his disciples to proclaim the good news publicly. (Read Matthew 10:27.) The sooner a student begins to share his faith, the sooner he will learn to rely on Jehovah. How can you help a student to make this his goal? When a preaching campaign is announced for the congregation, encourage your student to think about how he could qualify as a publisher. Explain why many have found it easier to begin preaching during such campaigns. He might also benefit from the public-speaking training given during mid-week meetings. As he pursues this goal, he will learn to express his beliefs with conviction. w25.06 24 ¶18

Follow Jesus’ way of teaching by showing patience and understanding. Avoid asking questions that make the person uncomfortable. If necessary, move past points that he struggles with and return to these later. Rather than try to force him to accept a teaching before he is ready, allow time for the truth to take root in his heart. (John 16:12; Col. 2:6, 7) The Bible compares the false teachings we are trying to overcome to a fortress. (Read 2 Corinthians 10:4, 5; see study note on “overturning strongly entrenched things.”) Instead of pulling down your student’s fortress on top of him, help him make Jehovah his Refuge.​—Ps. 91:9. w25.09 24 ¶13

The global unity we enjoy is a miracle. Jehovah makes it possible despite our imperfections. (1 Cor. 12:25) The Bible says that we are “taught by God to love one another.” (1 Thess. 4:9) In other words, through the Scriptures, Jehovah tells us exactly what we need to do in order to draw closer to one another. We can be “taught by God” by carefully examining his teachings and applying them. (Heb. 4:12; Jas. 1:25) And that is exactly what Jehovah’s Witnesses strive to do. w25.04 16 ¶8

Jehovah also prepared his people for what lay ahead. In an earlier part of the book of Isaiah, God told the nation: “Enter your inner rooms, and shut your doors behind you. Hide yourself for a brief moment until the wrath has passed by.” (Isa. 26:20) This passage may have had an initial fulfillment when Babylon was conquered by King Cyrus. An ancient Greek historian says that when Cyrus entered Babylon, he “gave [his soldiers] orders to cut down all whom they found out of doors.” Imagine how scared the inhabitants of Babylon would have felt! But the Jewish exiles may well have been spared because they obeyed Jehovah’s instructions. w25.05 12-13 ¶15

JEHOVAH’S sheep are precious to him. He purchased them with the blood of Jesus and assigned the congregation elders to care for His flock. (Acts 20:28) God wants his sheep to be treated tenderly. Under Christ’s leadership, the elders refresh the sheep and protect them from spiritual danger.​—Isa. 32:1, 2.

Jehovah has deep concern for all his sheep, but he gives special care to those who are suffering. Through the elders, he helps those who are suffering in a spiritual sense. (Read Ezekiel 34:15, 16.) However, he wants us to seek help when we need it. At such times, in addition to our earnest prayers to God for support, we request the assistance of the “shepherds and teachers” in the congregation.​—Eph. 4:11, 12. w25.09 2 ¶1-2

We do not always know “the work of the true God.” (Read Ecclesiastes 11:5.) That expression refers to what Jehovah causes to happen or what he allows to happen in order to accomplish his will. We cannot know for certain why Jehovah might permit something to occur or exactly how he will act in our behalf. (Ps. 37:5) Such knowledge is as unfathomable to us as is the development of a child in a pregnant woman’s womb, something that scientists still do not fully understand.

Our not knowing how Jehovah will act in our behalf could cause us to become indecisive. We might hesitate to make sacrifices to expand our ministry, such as simplifying our life or moving to where there is a greater need for Kingdom publishers. Or we may wonder whether we have God’s approval if we do not reach our theocratic goals, if we do not see outstanding results for our hard work in the ministry, or if we face obstacles in a theocratic project. w25.06 16 ¶8-9

A grateful spirit nurtures contentment. (Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18.) For example, when we are truly thankful for the necessities of life, we are less likely to be overly concerned about the things we want but do not have. When we reflect appreciatively on the privileges of service we enjoy now, we will focus on doing our best in those assignments instead of becoming obsessed with receiving a new privilege. No wonder the Scriptures urge us to include expressions of thanks to Jehovah in our prayers! Having a grateful spirit helps us to feel “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding.”​—Phil. 4:6, 7. w25.07 21-22 ¶4

Paul did not end his comments about sin on a negative note. After asking: “Who will rescue me from the body undergoing this death?” he answered his own question emphatically: “Thanks to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Rom. 7:25) Paul was referring to Jesus’ ransom sacrifice. That ransom can rescue us by providing (1) forgiveness of our sins, (2) healing from our sinful condition, and (3) reconciliation with our Creator. As we consider these points, we will grow in our love for Jehovah, “the God who gives hope.” (Rom. 15:13) We will also grow in our appreciation for Jesus​—“by means of whom we have our release by ransom.”​—Col. 1:14. w26.01 14-15 ¶3

Apart from the requirement for total immersion, the Bible does not provide many details about baptism. Still, the Scriptures do help us to know what is appropriate. For example, Bible principles help baptism candidates know how to dress and also help observers know how to behave. (1 Cor. 14:40; 1 Tim. 2:9) Today, immersion is usually performed by an elder, and we avoid giving prominence to those who have this privilege. (1 Cor. 1:14, 15) A baptism is valid whether it is witnessed by a large audience or not.​—Acts 8:36. w26.02 10 ¶7

To strengthen your confidence in Jehovah’s love, keep praying for his help to see yourself as he does. Ponder how inspired Bible writers described his tender love. Reflect on the way that he responds to love; he would never receive it and then fail to show it in return. Meditate on why you can view the ransom as a personal gift to you. And trust Jesus’ assurance that Jehovah is your heavenly Father. Then if anyone should ask: “Are you sure that Jehovah loves you?” you will confidently respond: “Yes, he does! And I do my best every day to show my love for him!” w25.08 13 ¶18

Jesus saw great injustice when he was on earth. He witnessed how the common people were oppressed by the religious leaders. (Matt. 23:2-4) He was aware of how harshly the Roman authorities treated the people. Many Jews longed for independence from Rome. Some, such as the Zealots, were willing to fight for it. Yet, Jesus did not initiate or support movements for social change. When he learned that people were planning to make him king, Jesus separated himself from them.​—John 6:15.

When he was on earth, Jesus did not try to work with the political systems of the day in order to eliminate injustice. Why not? He knew that humans have neither the right nor the ability to govern themselves. (Ps. 146:3; Jer. 10:23) They are also incapable of addressing the root causes of injustice. The world is ruled by Satan the Devil, a murderous spirit creature who uses his authority to incite injustice. (John 8:44; Eph. 2:2) And imperfection makes it impossible for even the most well-meaning humans to act fairly at all times.​—Eccl. 7:20. w25.09 9-10 ¶6-7

The closer we draw to Jehovah, the happier we will be. (Ps. 65:4) This is true for many reasons. For one thing, we benefit from applying the practical wisdom found in his Word, the Bible. Such wisdom protects us from bad influences and from making serious mistakes. (Read Proverbs 2:6-16.) Appropriately, the Bible states: “Happy is the man who finds wisdom and the man who acquires discernment.”​—Prov. 3:13. w25.04 9 ¶5

Read 1 Samuel 1:10, 11. When Hannah said this prayer, she was facing two major problems. She was barren, and her husband’s other wife was making her life miserable. (1 Sam. 1:4-7) If you are facing a persistent problem, what can you learn from Hannah’s prayer? She found relief by lingering in prayer and by unburdening her heart to God. (1 Sam. 1:12, 18) We too can find relief when we “throw [our] burden on Jehovah” by describing to him how we feel about our specific difficulties.​—Ps. 55:22. w25.10 20-21 ¶13

Throughout his ministry, Jesus showed great empathy toward the weak and disadvantaged. In doing so, he fulfilled prophecy. In the Hebrew Scriptures, prosperous and strong people are sometimes likened to a fertile garden or to large, stately trees. (Ps. 92:12; Isa. 61:3; Jer. 31:12) But the poor and downtrodden are compared to a crushed reed and to the smoldering wick of a lamp, both of which are of little use to anyone. (Read Isaiah 42:3; Matt. 12:20) Under inspiration, the prophet Isaiah used these word pictures to foretell the love and compassion that Jesus would show to the common people who were viewed as worthless by others. w25.11 18 ¶6

If you are studying the Bible, consider this: Your response to the good news indicates that you are among those whom Jehovah is drawing into a relationship with him. (John 6:44; Acts 13:48) “Jehovah is the examiner of hearts.” This means that he notices your efforts to learn about him, and he rejoices to see your progress as you make changes to conform to his standards. (Prov. 17:3; 27:11) The ransom makes it possible for you to have a close friendship with Jehovah. (Rom. 5:10, 11) Never take that for granted. w26.01 21 ¶4

What about you young ones who are being raised in the truth? You too are Bible students. In fact, you are your parents’ most important Bible students. The Bible says: “Draw close to God, and he will draw close to you.” (Jas. 4:8; 1 Chron. 28:9) When you take the initiative to draw close to Jehovah, he responds by drawing close to you. Jehovah does not view you as just being part of a group. He draws each individual​—including each individual who is being raised in the truth. What has made it possible for you to have a personal friendship with Jehovah? The ransom​—something that you should never take for granted. (Rom. 5:1, 2) So before you attend this year’s Memorial, why not reflect on what Jesus’ death means for you? Let that thought compel you to work toward your next spiritual goal​—whatever it might be—​to show that you appreciate the ransom that Jehovah provided through his Son. w26.01 22 ¶7

You have probably noted that proud people do not like to be kept waiting. Pride makes them impatient. What a contrast that is to Jehovah, who is the very epitome of patience! For instance, in the days of Noah, Jehovah stated that He would wait 120 years before destroying the wicked. (Gen. 6:3) Noah had time to raise his children and build the ark with the help of his family. Later, Jehovah’s angelic representative listened patiently as Abraham questioned him about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. A proud person might have responded, ‘How dare you question me!’ But in imitation of Jehovah, that angel was patient with Abraham.​—Gen. 18:20-33. w25.12 17 ¶10

Even if we have a good spiritual routine and a good study program tailored to our needs, we cannot expect negative thoughts and feelings to disappear completely. We may still have days when we feel miserable! However, with Jehovah’s help, we can lessen negative feelings when they arise. We can be confident that on most days we will enjoy a clean conscience and have every reason to rejoice in our life and in our service to Jehovah.

Let us be determined not to be controlled by negative feelings about our past, our troubles, or our imperfections. With Jehovah’s help, we can keep negative feelings in check. (Ps. 143:10) We can look forward to the day when positive thinking will no longer be a struggle. Rather, we will be able to wake up each morning without having any anxious thoughts, happy to serve our loving God, Jehovah! w26.01 13 ¶19-20

If you are a baptized Christian, you have already demonstrated faith in the ransom in a number of ways. For example, you took steps to be close to Jehovah and to conform to his standards. You obeyed Jesus’ command to make disciples by sharing your faith with others. You dedicated yourself to Jehovah and got baptized. Have you faced opposition as a result of your stand for true worship? (2 Tim. 3:12) Your faithful endurance demonstrates your love for Jehovah and your appreciation for the ransom that he provided through his Son.​—Heb. 12:2, 3. w26.01 22 ¶8

Think about what being rescued from a sinful condition will mean for you. Imagine what it will be like to wake up each morning feeling well, to live each day without being afraid that you or your loved ones will go hungry, get sick, or die. Even now, you can find a measure of peace as you “take firm hold of the hope . . . as an anchor for the soul, both sure and firm.” (Heb. 6:18, 19) Just as an anchor can stabilize a boat, your Christian hope can stabilize your faith and help you to endure any trials you face now. Indeed, you can have confidence that Jehovah will become “the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” (Heb. 11:6) The comfort that you receive now and the hope you have for the future are possible only because of the ransom. w26.01 17-18 ¶13

Jesus said that the ransom was provided “so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) The ransom is Jehovah’s means of rescuing us from the effects of sin and death. None of us should take it for granted. (Rom. 3:23, 24; 2 Cor. 6:1) The days before the Memorial give us an opportunity to reflect on the love that Jehovah and Jesus showed, and this love should compel us to respond appreciatively. w26.01 25 ¶17

As you prepare to attend this year’s Memorial, take time to think about what Jehovah’s forgiveness means for you. For example, because of the ransom, you do not need to be consumed with guilt over past sins for which you have repented. What if you find that difficult to accept? Perhaps you have said to yourself, ‘I understand that Jehovah can forgive, but I can’t forgive myself.’ If you feel that way, remember this: Jehovah is the one who forgives, and he has given his Son authority to judge. Jehovah has not given you or any other human the task of deciding who will or will not receive his mercy. The Bible says: “If we are walking in the light as [Jehovah] is in the light, . . . the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:6, 7) We can be as confident of that as we are of any other Bible teaching. The ransom has given Jehovah the legal basis to extend mercy to us, and his Word says that he is “ready to forgive.”​—Ps. 86:5. w26.01 16 ¶8

Ever since Adam and Eve sinned, humans have been alienated, or separated, from God. The Bible even says that mankind as a whole has been cut off from the Creator. (Rom. 8:7, 8; Col. 1:21) Why? Because Jehovah’s perfect standards do not allow him to condone sin. The Bible says about Jehovah: “Your eyes are too pure to look on what is evil, and you cannot tolerate wickedness.” (Hab. 1:13) Sin has thus created a breach between God and man. None of us can have a relationship with Jehovah unless that breach is healed and we are reconciled with him. The ransom makes that reconciliation possible. w26.01 18 ¶14

The Bible states that Jesus is “a propitiatory sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 2:2) The Greek word rendered “propitiatory sacrifice” can refer to “a means of appeasement.” In what way was Jehovah appeased by the ransom? We are not to think that the death of His Son brought Him some kind of comfort. Rather, the ransom appeased, or satisfied, Jehovah’s standard of justice. He now had a basis to restore the relationship between himself and man. (Rom. 3:23-26) He could even ‘credit’ righteousness to those who worshipped him faithfully before Christ’s death. (Gen. 15:1, 6, ftn.) How? On the basis of the future ransom. Jehovah was absolutely certain that his Son, Jesus, would provide it. (Isa. 46:10) The ransom opened the way for man to be reconciled to God. w26.01 18 ¶15

Think about what reconciliation with God means for you. For example, perhaps you refer to Jehovah as your “Father,” as Jesus instructed. (Matt. 6:9) At times, you might even refer to Jehovah as your “Friend.” When we use terms like “Father” or “Friend,” we should do so with reverence and humility. Why? Because in our sinful state, any closeness we feel to Jehovah is not due to our own merit. It is only because of the ransom that we can even have a relationship with Jehovah. Through Jesus, Jehovah made it possible to “reconcile to himself all other things by making peace through the blood [Jesus] shed on the torture stake.” (Col. 1:19, 20) That is why we can enjoy a relationship with Jehovah​—even now in our imperfect condition. w26.01 18-19 ¶16

Meditate on the ransom. The ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ is Jehovah’s greatest gift to humankind. (John 3:16) But is it a gift to you personally? Yes! Consider the experience of the apostle Paul. Recall that he had committed some serious sins before becoming a Christian and needed to continue battling his own imperfections. (Rom. 7:24, 25; 1 Tim. 1:12-14) Yet, he came to view the ransom as a personal gift from Jehovah. (Read Galatians 2:20.) Remember that Jehovah inspired Paul to record those words. And everything in the Bible is there for our instruction. (Rom. 15:4) Paul’s words reflect how Jehovah wants you to view the ransom​—that is, as a personal gift from Him to you. When you come to view the ransom this way, you strengthen your conviction that Jehovah loves you as an individual. w25.08 11 ¶10

The ransom highlights the fact that Jehovah is “rich in mercy.” He “made us alive . . . when we were dead in trespasses.” (Read Ephesians 2:4, 5.) Those who are “rightly disposed for everlasting life” cry out for help, realizing that they are trapped by the rubble of inherited sin and need to be rescued. (Acts 13:48) Jehovah responds to their calls for help by means of the Kingdom message, so that they might come to know him and his Son, Jesus. (John 17:3) If Satan thought that the fall of Adam and Eve had thwarted God’s purpose, he was mistaken. w26.01 19 ¶17

As you develop the habit of reading the Bible, keep in mind your goal of drawing closer to Jehovah. For example, what can you learn from Jesus’ encounter with a rich young ruler? (Mark 10:17-22) The young man believed that Jesus was the Messiah but lacked faith to follow him. Even so, Jesus “felt love for him.” Are you not touched by the way Jesus spoke to this young man? Obviously, Jesus wanted him to make a wise decision. Jesus was also reflecting Jehovah’s love for the young man. (John 14:9) As you think about this account and your circumstances, ask yourself, ‘What do I need to do to draw closer to Jehovah and to serve others more fully?’ w25.04 30 ¶14

Some individuals may simply come to our meetings out of curiosity or may have been urged to attend by someone living in another area. So we should not hesitate to approach such ones who come to our meeting place. Welcome them without overwhelming them. Invite them to sit with you. Share your Bible and study materials, or provide them with their own copies. In addition, consider their feelings. One man who visited a Kingdom Hall told the brother who welcomed him that he was nervous about being in casual clothes. The brother made him feel at ease and explained that Jehovah’s Witnesses are just normal people. The man, who eventually progressed to baptism, never forgot the brother’s response. A word of caution, though: When you speak with visitors before or after the meeting, show personal interest without prying into their personal matters.​—1 Pet. 4:15. w25.09 24-25 ¶15

We all have many things in our personal lives that demand our attention. For example, we may have health concerns or necessary family or personal matters to care for. Of course, these things are important, and they need our attention. But could they become distractions? They could, if they start to dominate our thoughts and consume all our time and mental energy.

In addition, many of us are personally affected by the political unrest, economic downturns, disease outbreaks, and incessant conflicts that mark this system. (2 Tim. 3:1) When we experience such things, we may become so anxious that we find ourselves thinking about them constantly. w26.03 14-15 ¶4-5

Despite what some people say, it is not hard to find Jehovah, “the God of truth.” Evidence of his existence is all around us. (Rom. 1:20) When speaking to a group of Greek intellectuals in Athens, the apostle Paul said that God wants us to “find him” and that “he is not far off from each one of us.” (Read Acts 17:27.) In fact, Jehovah draws to himself humble people who are searching for the truth.​—John 6:44. w26.01 27 ¶5

We want to help clear Jehovah’s name of all reproach. Consider this scenario: You have a close friend who is kind, generous, and forgiving. One day, you hear someone accuse your friend of being cruel and dishonest. How do you react? You defend him. Similarly, when Satan and those under his influence try to ruin Jehovah’s reputation by spreading lies about Him, we respond by telling the truth about Jehovah, vigorously defending His name. (Ps. 34:1; Isa. 43:10) We show that we want to serve Jehovah whole-souled by our words and actions. w25.04 5 ¶14

In 49 C.E., the apostles and older men in Jerusalem met together to discuss what uncircumcised Gentiles needed to do in order to be accepted as Christians. At the conclusion of the discussion, James, the half brother of Jesus, made this statement: “[Peter] has related thoroughly how God for the first time turned his attention to the nations to take out of them a people for his name.” Whose name was James referring to? Quoting the prophet Amos, he added: “So that the men who remain may earnestly seek Jehovah, together with people of all the nations, people who are called by my name, says Jehovah.” (Acts 15:14-18) Not only would these new disciples learn about Jehovah but they would also be ‘called by his name.’ This meant that they would bear God’s name and that they would also be identified by it. w25.05 27 ¶5

To win the fight against wrong desires, you will need to be honest with yourself about your weaknesses. Be careful not to deceive yourself with “false reasoning.” (Jas. 1:22) Minimizing the problem​—such as by reasoning, ‘Others drink more than I do,’ or by blaming others for it, ‘I wouldn’t be tempted to look at pornography if my wife were more affectionate’—​will only make it easier for you to give in to temptation. So do not try to justify a wrong course, even in your thinking. Take responsibility for your actions.​—Gal. 6:7. w25.08 23-24 ¶15

What if we start to wonder whether our problems are proof that we have lost Jehovah’s approval? It may help to think of other faithful servants of Jehovah who faced very difficult situations. Consider the example of the apostle Paul. He was chosen by Jesus himself to bring the truth “to the nations as well as to kings and the sons of Israel.” (Acts 9:15) What a privilege! Yet, Paul’s life was far from trouble free. (2 Cor. 11:23-27) Did the seemingly endless troubles Paul faced mean that he had lost Jehovah’s approval? Of course not! On the contrary, his endurance showed that he had Jehovah’s blessing. (Rom. 5:3-5) Now think about your situation. You are enduring faithfully despite all the trials you are facing. So you too can be sure that you have Jehovah’s approval. w25.10 9 ¶11

Any who delay taking steps toward spiritual progress might discover that making last-minute changes to please God is too difficult. Jesus knew this and warned his disciples: “Remember the wife of Lot.” (Luke 17:31-35) She was well-aware that God’s judgment on Sodom and Gomorrah was imminent; yet, it seems that she still could not break her attachment to the things she left behind. (Gen. 19:23-26) Her experience also reminds us that the door of salvation will not remain open indefinitely. At God’s due time, that door will be closed and permanently locked.​—Luke 13:24, 25. w26.02 17-18 ¶13

Jesus’ disciples too relied on God’s Word when teaching. For example, consider the speech the apostle Peter gave on the day of Pentecost 33 C.E. Peter was not a highly educated man. Yet, he touched the hearts of his listeners with his Scriptural explanation of the prophecies that Jesus fulfilled. (Acts 2:14-37) The result? “Those who gladly accepted his word were baptized, and on that day about 3,000 people were added.”​—Acts 2:41. w26.03 5 ¶8

Strive to help others. When you focus your time and energy on others, you will be less likely to focus on your own problems. An African proverb likens older ones to a library filled with books containing a wealth of wisdom. But books that are left on the shelf do not teach or tell stories. So as a “living library,” take the initiative to share your knowledge and experience with younger ones. Ask them questions, and then listen. Teach them why living by Jehovah’s standards is always best and will make them happy. No doubt you will feel joyful when you comfort and strengthen your younger friends.​—Ps. 71:18. w25.11 5 ¶11

Job expressed his emotions to Jehovah. (Job 10:1, 2; 16:20) For example, chapter 3 tells us that Job complained bitterly about the tragedies that had befallen him, which he mistakenly assumed Jehovah had caused. Then in a series of debates with his three companions, Job strongly defended his integrity, often directing his responses to Jehovah. Job’s words suggest that for a time he considered himself to be more righteous than God. (Job 10:1-3; 32:1, 2; 35:1, 2) In reality, though, he admitted that his efforts to defend his integrity sometimes amounted to “wild talk.” (Job 6:3, 26) In chapter 31, we read that Job spoke of wanting to be exonerated by God. (Job 31:35) Of course, Job was wrong to demand a direct answer from God as to what was behind his suffering. w25.12 4-5 ¶10

After being installed as king, David kept close company with men who gave him advice. (1 Chron. 27:32-34) This is not surprising, for David had a record of listening to good advice. He accepted it not only from men but also from a woman named Abigail. She was the wife of the disrespectful, ungrateful, and egotistical man Nabal. David humbly applied her good advice and, as a result, avoided making a terrible mistake.​—1 Sam. 25:2, 3, 21-25, 32-34.

From David, we can learn some lessons. For instance, we may be talented or have a measure of authority. Even so, we should never think that we know it all and do not need advice. And like David, we should be willing to listen to good advice, no matter who gives it. (Read Ecclesiastes 4:13.) If we do, we will likely avoid making big mistakes that can bring grief to us and to others. w25.07 3-4 ¶6-7

Before becoming a Christian, Paul had a hot temper. An account in Acts states that Paul was so angry with the disciples of Jesus that he was “breathing threat and murder” against them. (Acts 9:1) After becoming a Christian, Paul no doubt worked hard to strip off this aspect of his old personality. (Eph. 4:22, 31) Even so, when Paul and Barnabas had an argument, it erupted into “a sharp burst of anger.” (Acts 15:37-39) That was a setback for Paul, but he did not give up. He kept ‘pummeling his body’​—fighting his imperfections—​so as to retain Jehovah’s approval.​—1 Cor. 9:27. w26.01 5 ¶11

The faithful angels are outstanding examples of endurance. They have put up with injustice and wickedness for thousands of years. They saw Satan and many other spirit creatures who once served alongside them rebel against Jehovah. (Gen. 3:1; 6:1, 2; Jude 6) The Bible tells of one faithful angel who experienced direct opposition from a powerful demon. (Dan. 10:13) Furthermore, throughout human history, the angels have seen only a small minority of people pursue true worship. Despite all that, these loyal angels continue serving Jehovah with joy and zeal. They know that at the right time, God will remove all injustice. w25.05 6 ¶11

Read 1 Peter 3:18-21. In a sense, we can compare the work that you do to get ready for baptism to the work Noah did to build the ark. If you are just starting to learn about Jehovah, the work ahead might seem overwhelming, perhaps even as massive a job as building Noah’s ark. Is all that effort really necessary? It certainly was for Noah. God himself designed the ark, and Noah had to follow that design closely to preserve life through the Flood. With faith and God’s support, Noah obeyed and built the ark. Like Noah, you can successfully do according to “all that God [has] commanded.”​—Gen. 6:22. w26.02 9 ¶5

“Flee from youthful desires, but pursue righteousness.” (Read 2 Timothy 2:22.) Paul urged Timothy to fight desires that could distract him from his spiritual goals and damage his relationship with Jehovah. You may also realize that certain activities, though not wrong in themselves, may leave you little time for spiritual pursuits. For example, think of how much time you spend participating in sports, browsing the Internet, or playing video games. Could you use some of that time for theocratic activities? Perhaps you can offer to help maintain the local Kingdom Hall or to support the local cart witnessing program. If you participate in such activities, you will likely make new friends who will help you to set and reach spiritual goals. w25.04 30-31 ¶17

How might a similar situation arise today? Consider the matter of blood fractions. Each Christian must make up his or her own mind about whether to accept or to reject these fractions. We may find it a challenge to understand this matter fully, but making decisions like this is part of the load that each of us must carry. (Rom. 14:4) If we were to copy what somebody else decided to do, we could weaken our own conscience. We can train and improve our conscience only by using it. (Heb. 5:14) So when should we ask a mature Christian for advice? After we have done our own research but still need help in understanding how Bible principles relate to our situation. w25.07 7 ¶17

How does God’s Word teach us to draw closer to one another? Consider what Paul had to say on this matter, as indicated at Romans 12:9-13. (Read.) Of special note are the words “in showing honor to one another, take the lead.” What does that mean? We should take the initiative to show “tender affection” to others by extending forgiveness, showing hospitality, and practicing generosity, among other things. (Eph. 4:32) There is no need to wait for your brother or sister to draw closer to you. You can “take the lead” in doing so. Jesus aptly said: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”​—Acts 20:35. w25.04 16 ¶9

The elders are instructed to support those who are spiritually weak. (1 Thess. 5:14) If you have erred, they may ask you discerning questions to ‘draw out’ your inner thoughts and feelings. (Prov. 20:5) You can help them by expressing yourself openly, even if you find this difficult to do because of your culture, your personality, or your embarrassment over the challenge you are facing. Do not be afraid that your words may seem like “wild talk.” (Job 6:3) Instead of quickly drawing a conclusion, the elders will strive to listen carefully and get the whole picture before offering you counsel. (Prov. 18:13) They realize that shepherding the flock takes time, so they do not expect to resolve challenging issues with one discussion. w25.09 5 ¶12

Just a few years before the Roman armies surrounded Jerusalem, the apostle Paul wrote the powerful letter now known as the book of Hebrews. In that letter, Paul gave Christians in Judea and Jerusalem vital counsel that would help them prepare for what lay ahead. And what exactly lay ahead? Jerusalem was going to be destroyed. If those Christians hoped to survive, they would have to be ready to abandon their homes and businesses. So regarding the city of Jerusalem, Paul wrote: “We do not have here a city that remains.” Then he added: “But we are earnestly seeking the one to come.”​—Heb. 13:14. w25.05 14 ¶2

Our not knowing how Jehovah will act actually helps us to develop such essential qualities as humility and modesty. We come to recognize that Jehovah’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours. (Isa. 55:8, 9) We also learn to trust in Jehovah more fully, relying on him for success. When we have good results in the ministry or in a theocratic project, we rightly give Jehovah the praise. (Ps. 127:1; 1 Cor. 3:7) If matters do not turn out as we expected, we need to remember that Jehovah is still in full control. (Isa. 26:12) We do our part, and we continue to trust that Jehovah will do his part. We are confident that he will provide us with the direction we need, even if not in the same miraculous way that he sometimes did in the past.​—Acts 16:6-10.

Reflect on the fact that we know that Jehovah is always loving, just, and wise. We know that he highly values what we do for him and for our fellow worshippers. And we know that Jehovah always rewards those who are loyal to him.​—Heb. 11:6. w25.06 16 ¶10-11

Let your conduct speak for you. Our kind words and actions can move our relatives to change the way they feel about us. (Read 1 Peter 3:1, 2.) An unbelieving husband could easily feel left out or upset when his wife attends congregation meetings or goes out in the ministry. Because she does not want him to feel that way, she might adjust her schedule of spiritual activities in order to spend more time with him. For example, she could share in the ministry when her husband is busy or not at home. By being flexible and reasonable, a Christian wife might help her husband to reconsider his opinion of the Witnesses. w26.02 3-4 ¶9

Jacob told Reuben: “You will not excel.” Those words came true. There is no record of any of Reuben’s descendants becoming a king, a priest, or a prophet. Yet, Jacob did not disown his son, and Reuben’s descendants did become a full tribe in Israel. (Josh. 12:6) Reuben had demonstrated fine qualities in other situations, and there is no record that he ever committed immorality again.​—Gen. 37:20-22; 42:37.

What can we learn? We need to work hard to cultivate self-control and to reject sexual misconduct. If we are ever tempted to commit a sin, we should stop and think about how our actions would hurt Jehovah, our family, and others. We should also remember that “whatever a person is sowing, this he will also reap.” (Gal. 6:7) On the other hand, what happened to Reuben reminds us of Jehovah’s mercy. Although Jehovah will not shield us from the consequences of our mistakes, he will bless our efforts when we do what is right. w25.06 4 ¶7-8

Reflect on how Jehovah responds to love. Consider what Jehovah said to Moses and to the Israelites. (Read Exodus 20:5, 6.) Jehovah promises that he will continue to show loyal love to those who love him. Those words assure us that our loyal God would never receive love from his worshippers and not love them in return. (Neh. 1:5) So if at times you need reassurance that Jehovah loves you, stop and ask yourself, ‘Do I love Jehovah?’ Then think about this: If you love him and are trying your best to please him, you have his assurance that he loves you dearly. (Dan. 9:4; 1 Cor. 8:3) In other words, if you do not doubt your love for Jehovah, why doubt his love for you? His love and loyalty are beyond all doubt. w25.08 10-11 ¶9

A few years after the birth of her son Samuel, Hannah presented him to High Priest Eli. (1 Sam. 1:24-28) In a heartfelt prayer, she expressed her conviction that Jehovah protects and cares for his loyal servants. (1 Sam. 2:1, 8, 9) Her problems at home may not have disappeared, but Hannah focused on how Jehovah had blessed her. What is the lesson for us? We will be better able to cope with ongoing challenges if we focus on how Jehovah has supported us until now. w25.10 21 ¶14

Consider what happened to the Israelites. On a number of occasions, they complained to Jehovah that they lacked the food they used to enjoy in Egypt. (Num. 11:4-6) Granted, life in the wilderness was not easy. What would have helped them to be content? They should have reflected gratefully on what Jehovah had already done for them. In Egypt, where they were brutally treated as slaves, Jehovah brought ten plagues on their captors. After the Israelites were set free, they “plundered the Egyptians” of silver, gold, and clothing. (Ex. 12:35, 36) When the Israelites were chased to the edge of the Red Sea, Jehovah miraculously parted the waters. And as they traveled through the wilderness, he fed them daily with manna. What, then, was the problem? The Israelites were discontent, not because they lacked the food they needed, but because they were not grateful for what they already had. w25.07 22 ¶5

How can we imitate Jehovah? When we develop “the mind of Christ,” we put ourselves in the best position to think and act like Jehovah. (1 Cor. 2:16) How can we better understand Christ’s mind? There is no shortcut. We must read the Gospels. Then we need to take time to reflect on how the accounts we read reveal Jesus’ thinking on matters. And without a doubt, we must ask Jehovah to help us reflect Jesus’ humble way of thinking. As we develop the mind of Christ, we will become more like God by showing greater patience both with ourselves and with our fellow believers.​—Matt. 18:26-30, 35. w25.12 17-18 ¶14

IMAGINE the scene. A building collapses, trapping a man in the rubble. He is alive, but he cannot remove himself from the wreckage. All he can do is cry out for help and hope that he can be rescued.

Each one of us is in a comparable situation. In what way? When Adam rebelled against his Creator, he became a sinner. Later, he passed on his sinful condition to his children. As a result, the entire human race became trapped in the rubble of inherited sin, and we cannot remove ourselves from its effects. The apostle Paul well described our sinful condition in his letter to the Romans. (Read Romans 7:22-24.) He begged to be rescued “from the body undergoing this death.” Paul was trapped by inherited sin, which unavoidably leads to death. (Rom. 6:23) We are in that same predicament. We need to be rescued! w26.01 14 ¶1-2

As Jesus’ faithful followers, we strive to imitate him in showing love, fellow feeling, and compassion to others. (1 Pet. 2:21; 3:8) While we cannot heal the deaf or the blind, we can certainly help such ones spiritually. For example, Bible publications are now available in over 100 sign languages. And to benefit the visually impaired, braille publications are available in over 60 languages and audio descriptions for our videos are produced in over 100 languages. These provisions help the deaf and the blind to draw close to Jehovah and his Son. w25.11 19-20 ¶10

Jesus always spoke the truth. His enemies acknowledged that he would speak honestly even when what he had to say was unpopular. (Matt. 22:16) Regarding the effect of the truths he taught, Jesus said: “I came to cause division, with a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.” (Matt. 10:35) Jesus did not want people to react negatively to the message that he and his followers preached, but he was realistic. (Matt. 23:37) He knew that his message would divide the world into two groups​—those who love Bible truth and those who do not.​—2 Thess. 2:9-11. w26.01 26 ¶2

Jesus could have been distracted by many things, such as social and political issues. In his day, many people were poor and sick. (Matt. 14:14; Mark 14:7) They suffered injustices at the hands of the Romans and fellow Jews. When people saw that Jesus had the power and the ability to perform miracles, they wanted to make him their king. (John 6:14, 15) In addition, Jesus was targeted by Satan, who tried to tempt him with a shortcut to becoming a world ruler. (Matt. 4:8, 9) And the apostle Peter, one of Jesus’ closest friends, once encouraged him to pursue an easier course, saying: “Be kind to yourself, Lord.”​—Matt. 16:21, 22. w26.03 15 ¶7

When we support Jehovah’s name, or reputation, we are imitating Jesus Christ. Isaiah also foretold that a forerunner would “clear up [or, “prepare,” ftn.] the way of Jehovah.” (Isa. 40:3) How was that fulfilled? John the Baptizer prepared the way for Jesus, who came in the name of Jehovah and spoke in the name of Jehovah. (Matt. 3:3; Mark 1:2-4; Luke 3:3-6) The same prophecy said: “The glory of Jehovah will be revealed.” (Isa. 40:5) How was that the case? When Jesus came to the earth, he represented Jehovah so perfectly that it was as if Jehovah himself had come to the earth.​—John 12:45. w25.05 29-30 ¶12

Jehovah is kind to both the righteous and the unrighteous. (Matt. 5:45) He expects us to show similar consideration for others. For example, we are “to speak injuriously of no one, not to be quarrelsome, . . . displaying all mildness toward all men.” (Titus 3:2) With this in mind, we do not look down on others simply because they do not share our beliefs. (2 Tim. 2:23-25) We draw closer to Jehovah by always being kind and considerate in our dealings with all. w25.04 12 ¶15

See Jehovah as a Father who loves you. He wants to help you, not find fault with you. (Ps. 130:3; Matt. 7:11; Luke 12:6, 7) Meditating on that has helped many with feelings of low self-worth. For example, consider Eliana, a sister from Spain who felt rejected and useless after years of verbal abuse from her husband. She says, “Whenever I feel useless, I try to imagine Jehovah carrying me in his arms and giving me love and protection.” (Ps. 28:9) Lauren, a sister from South Africa, reminds herself, “If Jehovah kindly drew me to him with the cords of love, has kept me close to him all these years, and has even used me to teach others, then he surely considers me to be valuable and useful.”​—Hos. 11:4. w25.11 26 ¶16

We willingly adjust our goals in life so that we can serve Jehovah acceptably or more fully. For example, the apostle Paul chose to give up prominence in his community in order to follow Christ and serve Jehovah. (Gal. 1:14) As a result, he led a rewarding life and received the opportunity to rule with Christ in heaven. He never regretted his decision to serve Jehovah, and neither will we.​—Read Philippians 3:7, 8. w25.04 5 ¶15

Our dedication to Jehovah must be motivated by love. The more we come to know our loving God, the more we are moved to love his commands and to follow them as soon as they are brought to our attention. (Read Psalm 119:60.) The disciple James highlighted another vital reason to obey Jehovah’s commands promptly: None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. We may not even have one more day “to do what is right,” so we should act now on what we know.​—Jas. 4:13-17. w26.02 17 ¶11

The elders not only assist those who have committed a serious sin but also help those who are spiritually weak. (Acts 20:35) For example, you might fear that you are losing your fight against wrong desires. Your struggle might be especially challenging if before you learned the truth you were addicted to drugs, were exposed to pornography, or led an immoral life. You need not face these challenges alone. You can choose to speak to an elder who will listen to your concerns, offer practical counsel, and assure you that you can please Jehovah by refusing to act on wrong desires. (Eccl. 4:12) If you have become discouraged in your struggle, the elders can remind you that this likely shows that you are taking your relationship with Jehovah seriously and are avoiding overconfidence.​—1 Cor. 10:12. w25.09 4 ¶7

How can we imitate the angels’ endurance? Like the angels, we may witness injustices or face opposition. But we share their conviction that at the right time, God will remove all wickedness. So like the faithful angels, we do “not give up in doing what is fine.” (Gal. 6:9) And God promises to help us to endure. (1 Cor. 10:13) We can pray to Jehovah for his spirit, which produces patience and joy. (Gal. 5:22; Col. 1:11) What if you face opposition? Trust fully in Jehovah, and do not be alarmed. Jehovah will always support and strengthen you.​—Heb. 13:6. w25.05 6 ¶12

Read Genesis 49:5-7. Next, using strong words of disapproval, Jacob addresses Simeon and Levi. Years earlier, Jacob’s daughter, Dinah, had been raped by a Canaanite man named Shechem. Understandably, all of Jacob’s sons were very upset about what had happened to their sister, but Simeon and Levi became violent. They deceitfully promised to make peace with the men of Shechem if they all agreed to get circumcised. The men complied. While they were still in pain from the circumcision, Simeon and Levi “each took his sword and went into the unsuspecting city and killed every male.”​—Gen. 34:25-29.

Jacob was deeply troubled by the violent actions of his two sons. He foretold that they would be dispersed and scattered throughout Israel. Those prophetic words came true over 200 years later when the nation of Israel entered the Promised Land. The tribe of Simeon received as its inheritance isolated portions of land inside Judah’s tribal territory. (Josh. 19:1) Levi’s inheritance consisted of 48 cities scattered throughout Israel.​—Josh. 21:41. w25.06 4-5 ¶9-10

HOW do you feel about giving advice? Some are happy to provide it. Others are reluctant to offer counsel, or advice, and feel awkward when delivering it. Either way, all of us are obliged to provide advice from time to time. Why? Because Jesus said that his true followers are identified by the love that they show for one another. (John 13:35) And one way that we prove our love is by giving our brothers and sisters counsel when it is needed. God’s Word says that “sweet friendship” springs from, or grows because of, “sincere counsel.”​—Prov. 27:9. w25.07 8 ¶1

The Bible distinguishes between the practice of what is wrong (which we can control) and the desire for what is wrong (which may arise involuntarily). For example, some among the first-century Christians in Corinth formerly practiced homosexuality. Paul wrote: “That is what some of you were.” Did this mean that they never again had any desire to commit homosexual acts? It would not be realistic to believe so, since such cravings are often deeply ingrained. But Christians who exercised self-control and avoided acting on their desires were acceptable to Jehovah. He considered them “washed clean.” (1 Cor. 6:9-11) The same can be true of you. w25.08 23 ¶13

We do not need to go to the elders for every concern we may have about our spiritual health. For instance, suppose you say something hurtful to a brother or a sister, perhaps even lose your temper. Rather than approach an elder, you could apply Jesus’ counsel about making peace between you and your brother or sister. (Matt. 5:23, 24) You could research the subjects of mildness, patience, and self-control so that you can display those fine qualities more fully in the future. Of course, if you are still unable to solve your problem, you could ask an elder for assistance. In his letter to the Philippians, the apostle Paul asked an unnamed brother to help Euodia and Syntyche to resolve their differences, and an elder in your congregation may be able to aid you in the same way.​—Phil. 4:2, 3. w25.09 4 ¶8

There is no better tool to reach our listeners’ hearts than the Word of God. (Heb. 4:12) Therefore, we need to focus on the Bible when teaching. We want to “preach the word,” not our own ideas. (2 Tim. 4:2) Proverbs 2:6 says: “Jehovah himself gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and discernment.” So when we teach from the Scriptures, we are, in a sense, letting Jehovah speak. (Mal. 2:7) We want people to know that the Bible contains something far superior to human wisdom. It is inspired of God and imparts knowledge that we need to acquire in order to please our Creator and live a happy, fulfilling life.​—2 Tim. 3:16, 17. w26.03 5 ¶9

Getting baptized shows publicly that you have accepted the truth about Jehovah God and Christ Jesus, repented of your sins, adjusted your life course to serve Jehovah, recognized Jesus as God’s way of salvation, and expressed to God in prayer your sincere desire to do His will in association with His organization. Once you make that promise, or dedication, and get baptized, you begin a course that leads to everlasting life. w26.02 8-9 ¶3

We can learn from King Solomon’s experience with regard to the sad outcome of self-indulgence. He tried to find happiness by satisfying his personal desires, such as enjoying good food, beautiful music, and all the fine things money could buy in his day. But he was left feeling dissatisfied. He said: “The eye is not satisfied at seeing; nor is the ear filled from hearing.” (Eccl. 1:8; 2:1-11) The world’s ideas about what brings real joy are like counterfeit money. They appear to be valuable; yet, they cannot deliver on what they promise. w25.10 10-11 ¶15

Accompany them to medical appointments. In addition to providing transportation for older ones, you may be able to ensure that the medical staff are treating them well and giving them the attention that they need. (Isa. 1:17) You may be able to help the older one by taking notes about what the doctor says. An older sister named Ruth says: “Often, when I go alone to a medical appointment, the doctor does not take me seriously. Doctors may say such things as, ‘Your problem is psychological; it’s in your head.’ But when I am accompanied by someone, it makes all the difference in how the doctor deals with me. I thank my brothers and sisters who take the time to accompany me.” w25.11 7 ¶16

We are proud of Jehovah’s name. (Read Psalm 105:3.) Jehovah takes great delight in our boasting about his name. (Jer. 9:23, 24; 1 Cor. 1:31; 2 Cor. 10:17) To “boast in Jehovah” means to take pride in Jehovah as our God. We view it as a privilege to honor his name and support his reputation. We must never be ashamed to tell our workmates, classmates, neighbors, and others that we are Jehovah’s Witnesses! The Devil wants us to stop talking about Jehovah’s name to others. (Jer. 11:21; Rev. 12:17) In fact, Satan and his false prophets want to make people forget the name of Jehovah. (Jer. 23:26, 27) But our love for Jehovah’s name keeps us rejoicing in it “all day long.”​—Ps. 5:11; 89:16. w25.05 30 ¶14

Imagine the scene. In a sense, everything that Job possessed has been taken from him. His vast herds of sheep, cattle, camels, and donkeys are gone. His children have been killed and most of his servants have been slaughtered. And the house where Job’s children were killed lies in ruins. As if that were not bad enough, Job is personally affected. His body is now covered with painful boils. From a distance, the three men see Job dejected and sitting in ashes. How do they react? For some seven days, they do not say a word to this man who is in great pain. (Job 2:12, 13) At one point, a younger man named Elihu arrives and sits down nearby. Job finally breaks the silence by cursing the day he was born and wishing for death. (Job 3:1-3, 11) Clearly, Job needs help! What these men say and how they say it will prove whether they are really Job’s friends and whether they are truly interested in his welfare. w25.12 8-9 ¶2

Paul was able to succeed in stripping off his negative traits and then in clothing himself with the new personality because he did not rely on his own strength. (Phil. 4:13) Like Peter, Paul depended on “the strength that God supplies.” (1 Pet. 4:11) Still, Paul at times felt like a failure. But when he was discouraged, he thought of the good things his heavenly Father had done for him, and that strengthened his resolve to keep on trying.​—Rom. 7:21-25. w26.01 5 ¶12

Consider the motives behind their words and actions. Jesus’ brothers may have been among the relatives who once said that he had “gone out of his mind.” (Mark 3:21) Why might they have come to that conclusion? The context shows that Jesus was so much in demand that he did not even have time to eat a meal. (Mark 3:20) Did his relatives think that he was being fanatical? It is possible. Our relatives may think that we take our religion far too seriously. If they feel that way, we do well to show by our actions how reasonable we truly are. w26.02 3 ¶8

Jesus knew that only God’s Kingdom will fully address the root causes of injustice. For that reason, he spent his time and energy on “preaching and declaring the good news of the Kingdom of God.” (Luke 8:1) He assured “those hungering and thirsting for righteousness” that the end of corruption and injustice would come. (Matt. 5:6 and study note; Luke 18:7, 8) However, this will be achieved, not through social reform, but through the rulership of God’s heavenly government, which is “no part of this world.”​—Read John 18:36. w25.09 10 ¶8

Another way we can promote unity is by means of our speech. Job 12:11 states: “Does not the ear test out words as the tongue tastes food?” Just as a good cook will always sample his food to make sure it is tasty before serving it to others, we do well to think carefully about what we will say before we say it. (Ps. 141:3) Our goal should always be to ensure that what we are about to say will be upbuilding, refreshing, and “beneficial to the hearers.”​—Eph. 4:29.

Husbands and parents especially should be conscious of being upbuilding in their speech. (Col. 3:19, 21; Titus 2:4) Elders too should be a source of refreshment and comfort as shepherds of Jehovah’s flock. (Isa. 32:1, 2; Gal. 6:1) A Bible proverb reminds us: “A word spoken at the right time​—how good it is!”​—Prov. 15:23. w25.04 18-19 ¶15-16

Jerusalem was important to Christians. The first-century Christian congregation was established there in 33 C.E., and its governing body was based in that city. Moreover, many Christians owned homes and had accumulated material possessions in the city. Yet, Jesus warned his followers that they would have to get out of Jerusalem and even out of Judea.​—Matt. 24:16.

To prepare the Christians for what was coming, Paul helped them to focus on how Jehovah viewed the city of Jerusalem. Paul reminded them that from Jehovah’s perspective, the temple, the priesthood, and the sacrifices being offered in Jerusalem were no longer sacred. (Heb. 8:13) Most of the city’s inhabitants had rejected the Messiah. Jerusalem’s temple was no longer the center of pure worship of Jehovah, and it would be destroyed.​—Luke 13:34, 35. w25.05 15 ¶4-5

When we need advice, we do well to consult someone who has a good relationship with Jehovah and experience in the matter we need help with. (Read Proverbs 13:20.) For instance, suppose that a young brother is interested in finding a suitable marriage mate. Who could give him good advice? An unmarried friend might be helpful if he bases his advice on Bible principles. But the young brother is likely to receive advice that is more specific and practical if he consults a spiritually mature couple who know him well and who have been happily married for some time. w25.07 4 ¶9

Read James 4:13, 14. A fundamental truth is that we do not know what our life will be like tomorrow. In this system of things, we are subject to “time and unexpected events.” (Eccl. 9:11) As a result, we cannot know whether our plans will succeed or even if we will be alive to see our plans through to completion.

The uncertainties of life can be difficult to bear, a challenge. How so? We may worry about what might happen, and that could rob us of joy. Sudden tragedies and unforeseen occurrences can cause us grief and frustration. And when our expectations go unfulfilled, we can become disappointed and discouraged.​—Prov. 13:12. w25.06 16-17 ¶12-13

How, then, can you cultivate gratitude? First, make time each day to think about the good things you enjoy. You might even write down two or three things you are grateful for. (Lam. 3:22, 23) Second, express your gratitude. Take the initiative to thank others for what they do for you. Above all, thank Jehovah regularly. (Ps. 75:1) Third, choose as close friends those who are thankful. Gratitude is contagious; so is discontentment. (Deut. 1:26-28; 2 Tim. 3:1, 2, 5) When we are focused on expressing gratitude, we are less likely to be consumed by feelings of discontent. w25.07 22 ¶6

Many today do not serve Jehovah because they have not yet come to know about his appealing qualities and they are unaware of all that he has done for them. That was true of those whom the apostle Paul preached to in Athens.​—Acts 17:19, 20, 30, 34.

Paul explained to his listeners that the true God “gives to all people life and breath and all things.” He added: “By him we have life and move and exist.” God is the Creator, who “made out of one man every nation of men,” so he has the right to our worship.​—Acts 17:25, 26, 28. w25.04 3 ¶6-7

Besides being honest with yourself about your weaknesses, you will need to strengthen your resolve not to give in to them. (1 Cor. 9:26, 27; 1 Thess. 4:4; 1 Pet. 1:15, 16) Take note of what makes you most vulnerable and when. It might be a certain type of temptation or a certain time of day when you are more likely to be tempted. For example, are you more vulnerable when you are tired or when it is late at night? Anticipate the temptation, and mentally rehearse how you will respond to it. The best time to do this is before the temptation occurs.​—Prov. 22:3. w25.08 24 ¶16

Jehovah’s organization endeavors to help people of all backgrounds. Recall that after his resurrection, Jesus poured out holy spirit so that all those assembled for the festival of Pentecost could hear the good news, each in “his own language.” (Read Acts 2:5-7, 33.) Following his lead, the organization provides Bible-based publications in well over 1,000 languages, some of which are spoken by small numbers of people. For example, some Amerindian languages are spoken by relatively few people living in North and South America. Yet, publications have been made available in more than 160 of those languages to ensure that as many as possible can have access to the good news. Our publications are also available in over 20 Romany languages. Many thousands who speak such languages have responded to the truth. w25.11 20 ¶11

Jesus imitates his Father. Like his Father, Jesus dignified humble people. He taught “uneducated and ordinary” people truths about the Kingdom of God. (Acts 4:13; Matt. 11:25) Jesus also healed the sick and treated them in ways that restored not only their health but also their dignity. (Luke 5:13) On the final night before his death, Jesus took on the role of a servant by washing his apostles’ feet. (John 13:5) And prior to ascending to heaven, he dignified all his humble followers, present and future, by giving them the most important work any human can have​—helping others to gain everlasting life.​—Matt. 28:19, 20. w25.12 19 ¶16

Read Galatians 6:1. A Christian who takes “a false step” is not walking in harmony with God’s righteous standards. The false step could refer to a mistake in judgment or a serious transgression of God’s law. Christian elders, moved by love, “try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness.” The Greek word translated “readjust” can also describe setting a dislocated bone back in place to prevent a permanent disability. Just as a skillful doctor endeavors to set a broken bone with as little pain as possible, the elders focus on healing our spiritual illness without adding to our pain. They are also instructed to “keep an eye on [themselves].” As they help us to straighten our path, elders recognize that they too are imperfect and prone to false steps. Far from showing a superior, self-righteous, or judgmental attitude, they strive to be empathetic.​—1 Pet. 3:8. w25.09 6 ¶14

The Mosaic Law required that the Israelites offer animal sacrifices to atone for their sins. (Lev. 4:27-31; 17:11) Those sacrifices foreshadowed the greater sacrifice of Jesus and the resulting blessings. His sacrifice would provide a legal basis for Jehovah to forgive our sins. Paul understood the value of Jesus’ sacrificial death, as shown by what he wrote to the Christians in Corinth. After listing their former bad practices, he told them: “You have been washed clean; you have been sanctified; you have been declared righteous in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and with the spirit of our God.”​—1 Cor. 6:9-11. w26.01 15-16 ¶7

How did Jesus fight potential distractions? In three ways. First, he adopted Jehovah’s thinking. (John 8:28; 14:9) Second, he kept busy in spiritual activities. (Matt. 9:35) And third, he had a clear view of what was truly important. (John 4:34) He firmly rejected Satan’s temptations and was not swayed by Peter’s well-intentioned but misplaced kindness. (Matt. 4:10; 16:23) Jesus refused to allow what people thought, said, or did to distract him from accomplishing God’s purpose. True, we may face different distractions than Jesus did. But by learning more, we can fight our distractions in imitation of Jesus. w26.03 15 ¶8

Mark and Timothy made sacrifices to serve others more completely, and they led full and satisfying lives. (Acts 20:35) To serve his fellow believers, Mark traveled to different parts of the world. He also wrote a dynamic account of Jesus’ life and ministry. Timothy helped Paul to establish congregations and to build up the brothers and sisters. Obviously, Jehovah was pleased with the self-sacrificing spirit shown by Mark and Timothy.

The affection Paul had for Timothy can be clearly seen in the letters he wrote to his young friend. These inspired letters also reveal that Jehovah loves you young men very much. He wants you to succeed. So take to heart Paul’s fatherly advice, and develop your desire to serve others more fully. If you do, you will enjoy an enriching life now and you will “get a firm hold on the real life” to come.​—1 Tim. 6:18, 19. w25.04 31 ¶18-19

We continue to call on Jehovah’s name. (Joel 2:32; Rom. 10:13, 14) Calling on Jehovah’s name involves more than just knowing and using God’s personal name. We come to know God as a Person, to trust in him, and to look to him for help and guidance. (Ps. 20:7; 99:6; 116:4; 145:18) We also declare his name and qualities to others, exhorting them to repent and take action so that they can gain Jehovah’s approval.​—Isa. 12:4; Acts 2:21, 38. w25.05 30 ¶15

We are hated because we reject Satan’s world. Jesus explained that his followers would be hated because they “are no part of the world.” (Read John 15:18-20.) Like the early Christians, we reject the world’s ungodly attitudes, conduct, and speech. Because of this, many brothers and sisters have become targets of ridicule at work or at school. (1 Pet. 4:3, 4) We are pleased, however, that some opposers eventually have a change of heart and come to admire us for our stand. w26.03 28 ¶7

No doubt you agree that drawing close to Jehovah is good. But meditating on exactly how good it is can motivate us to continue drawing closer to him. (Ps. 63:6-8) For example, we know that following a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, getting sufficient rest, and drinking enough water are all good for us. Still, many do not give much thought to these things, and they neglect their health. Yet, the more often we think about how healthy habits benefit us, the more likely we will be to maintain them. Similarly, we may know that drawing near to Jehovah is good for us, but meditating on the benefits of doing so can motivate us to continue drawing closer to our Friend.​—Ps. 119:27-30. w25.04 8-9 ¶3

FEW things are more important to Jehovah than the way we treat fellow humans. Jesus taught that we must love our neighbor as we love ourselves. (Matt. 22:37-39) That includes being kind even toward those who do not share our beliefs. When we show this kindness, we imitate Jehovah God, who “makes his sun rise on both the wicked and the good and makes it rain on both the righteous and the unrighteous.”​—Matt. 5:45.

Although Jehovah loves all mankind, he is especially fond of those who practice what is right. (John 14:21) He wants us to imitate him. He urges us to have “intense love” for our brothers and sisters and to show them “tender affection.” (1 Pet. 4:8; Rom. 12:10) When we think of showing such love and affection to someone, we might have in mind the warm feeling of attachment we have toward a beloved relative or a dear friend. w25.04 14 ¶1-2

The descendants of Simeon and Levi did not repeat the mistakes of their forefathers. The tribe of Levi showed great loyalty for pure worship. When Moses received the Law from Jehovah at Mount Sinai, many Israelites got involved with idolatrous calf worship but the Levites rallied to Moses’ side and helped him to clear out that badness. (Ex. 32:26-29) Jehovah chose to set the tribe of Levi apart, giving it the precious privilege of the priesthood. (Ex. 40:12-15; Num. 3:11, 12) Later, during the conquest of the Promised Land, the Simeonites valiantly fought alongside the Judeans, in line with Jehovah’s purpose.​—Judg. 1:3, 17. w25.06 5 ¶11

When someone asks us for advice, what should be our first reaction? We may be flattered and want to help immediately. But we should first ask ourselves, ‘Am I qualified to give advice in this area?’ Sometimes, the best way we can help is by not giving advice but instead directing the person to someone who is qualified to provide guidance on that subject.

Consider this example. Suppose that a close friend develops a serious medical condition. He tells you that he has started researching the treatment options that are available to him, and then he asks you to give your opinion on which treatment you feel is better. You may have strong personal opinions on the matter, but you have no medical qualifications or training in dealing with the illness. In that case, the best way you can help your friend is to assist him in finding someone who is qualified to help him. w25.07 9 ¶4-5

As you prepare to conduct a Bible study, find ways to direct your student’s attention to what the Bible teaches. Your student should understand that while pictures and videos can enhance our learning, the Bible is the main textbook. So look up key texts and help your student reason on them. When referring to pictures and videos, make sure that the student understands the fundamental Bible principles that are being taught. You do not need to say very much or to read a great many scriptures to accomplish that. Instead, give the student time to absorb the meaning of each one that is read, even rereading a scripture if necessary. In that way, we will truly be conducting, not a book study or a picture study or a video study, but a Bible study.​—1 Cor. 2:13. w26.03 5 ¶10

During the last days, Jehovah has given the angels a special assignment. (Read Matthew 13:47-49.) The preaching work attracts millions of people of all kinds. Some of these people take steps to become genuine Christians, while others do not. The angels have been assigned to “separate the wicked from among the righteous.” This means that they are assigned to help protect the purity of the congregation. This does not mean that everyone who stops associating with us for whatever reason can never return; nor does it mean that there will never be problems in the congregation. Yet, we can be sure that the angels are working hard to help keep our congregations clean. w25.05 6 ¶13

When we feel powerless​—as if we could not successfully fight wrong desires—​we can view that as our sinful condition “talking,” and we should not listen to it. Why? Because the Bible teaches that we do not have to let sin continue to “rule as king” over us. (Read Romans 6:12.) This means that we can choose not to act on wrong desires. (Gal. 5:16) Jehovah is confident that we can resist temptation; otherwise, he would not require us to do so. (Deut. 30:11-14; Rom. 6:6; 1 Thess. 4:3) Clearly, we are not powerless in our fight against wrong desires. w25.08 23 ¶11

We need faith and courage to ask for help when we have committed a serious sin or when we feel that we are losing our fight against a personal weakness. We should not let shame hold us back from calling the elders. Why not? By following Jehovah’s arrangement, we show that we trust him and his instructions for keeping us healthy and strong in the faith. We acknowledge that we need his help if we are about to fall. (Ps. 94:18) And if we have sinned, we will receive God’s mercy if we confess and abandon our sins.​—Read Proverbs 28:13. w25.09 4-5 ¶9

We are willing to suffer for Jehovah’s name. (Jas. 5:10, 11) When we remain loyal to Jehovah in the face of suffering, we prove Satan to be a liar. In Job’s day, Satan made this accusation with regard to those who serve Jehovah: “A man will give everything that he has for his life.” (Job 2:4) Satan claimed that people would serve Jehovah only in good times and that they would abandon Jehovah if faced with hardships. Faithful Job proved that accusation false. We likewise have the privilege of proving that no matter what Satan throws at us, we will never turn our back on Jehovah. We can be absolutely confident that Jehovah will keep watch over us on account of his name.​—John 17:11. w25.05 30 ¶16

What can help us recover our joy? Jesus taught us that “there is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” (Acts 20:35) An elder named Alekos says: “I focus on doing simple things for others. The more I give, the more my attention shifts away from me, and I am joyful.” What can you do for others? If you see someone struggling, try to encourage him. You may not be able to solve his problems, but you can comfort him by listening with empathy, by being compassionate, and by reminding him to throw his burden on Jehovah. (Ps. 55:22; 68:19) You can also help him to appreciate that Jehovah has not abandoned him. (Ps. 37:28; Isa. 59:1) You might even offer to do something practical for him, such as prepare a meal or just go for a walk together. Invite him to join you in the ministry, which will lift his spirits. Allow yourself to be a tool in Jehovah’s hands. Focusing on others rather than on ourselves will give us genuine joy!​—Prov. 11:25. w25.10 11 ¶16

Are you a caregiver for someone you love, such as your parent, mate, child, or friend? If so, you likely appreciate the unique privilege of helping him or her in such a personal way. And by caring for your loved one, you show your devotion to Jehovah. (1 Tim. 5:4, 8; Jas. 1:27) Still, you face challenges that often go unnoticed by others. At times, you may even feel that you are the only one suffering. You may outwardly smile, but when you are by yourself, you cannot hold back your tears. (Ps. 6:6) While others may not be aware of your struggles, Jehovah always is. (Compare Exodus 3:7.) Your tears and sacrifices are precious to him. (Ps. 56:8; 126:5) He notices everything you do to help your loved one. He considers himself to be indebted to you and promises to repay you.​—Read Proverbs 19:17. w25.11 10 ¶2

How can we imitate Jehovah? We dignify people when we share the good news with all who listen, regardless of their background, skin color, or level of education. And we dignify our brothers and sisters when we consider them superior to us, regardless of any abilities or privileges we may have. (Phil. 2:3) Jehovah is pleased when we humbly “take the lead” in showing honor to one another in these and in other ways.​—Rom. 12:10; Zeph. 3:12. w25.12 19 ¶17

The apostle John encourages us to “love, not in word or with the tongue, but in deed and truth.” (1 John 3:18) We want our love for our brothers and sisters to come from the heart. How can we accomplish that? The more time we spend with our brothers and sisters, the closer we will draw to one another and the stronger our love for one another will be. So create opportunities to spend time with others​—at the meetings and in the ministry. Take time to visit others. When we do, we show that we are being “taught by God to love one another.” (1 Thess. 4:9) And we will continue to experience firsthand “how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity!”​—Ps. 133:1. w25.04 19 ¶17

How the Israelites could have benefited. After forming the nation of Israel, Jehovah appointed qualified men, elders, to judge the nation according to his righteous standards. (Deut. 1:15-18; 27:1) Such men needed to listen carefully before giving advice or rendering judgment. (2 Chron. 19:6) They also needed to ask questions rather than assume that they knew all the facts. (Deut. 19:18) Those counselors in Israel needed to avoid speaking harshly to those who came to them for help. Why? Because displaying irritation could discourage a person from opening his or her heart. (Ex. 22:22-24) The elders in Israel who considered the account of Job could have indeed gleaned lessons from it. w25.12 10 ¶6

We can imitate Paul by recognizing that no matter how long we have been serving Jehovah, we need to keep working at stripping off the old personality and putting on the new personality​—the spiritual clothing that God supplies. If we have a setback​—such as losing our temper or speaking unkindly to someone—​we do not need to view ourselves as a failure. Instead, we should keep pursuing our goal of transforming the way we think and act. (Rom. 12:1, 2; Eph. 4:24) As we do so, however, we must remember a key fact: Unlike literal clothes that are adjusted to fit us, we must adjust ourselves to fit the spiritual clothing that Jehovah supplies. It is only reasonable that we change who we are in order to measure up to God’s requirements. w26.01 5-6 ¶13

Note the situation that developed among the first-century congregation in Corinth regarding meat that may have been sacrificed to idols. To those Christians, Paul wrote: “We know that an idol is nothing in the world and that there is no God but one.” (1 Cor. 8:4) With this fact in mind, some in the congregation decided that they could eat meat that may have been offered to an idol and later sold in a meat market. Others decided that they could not eat such meat without disturbing their conscience. (Read 1 Corinthians 8:7; 10:25, 26.) This was a personal decision. Paul never advised the Corinthians to make decisions for others nor to copy what others did. Each of them was to “render an account for himself to God.”​—Rom. 14:10-12. w25.07 6-7 ¶16

When Paul wrote to the Hebrews, Jerusalem was a thriving city. A Roman author of that era called Jerusalem “by far the most famous city of the East.” Jews from many lands traveled there yearly to observe the festivals, which contributed to a thriving economy. No doubt some Christians also benefited from this favorable economic situation. Perhaps that is why Paul told them: “Let your way of life be free of the love of money, while you are content with the present things.” He then quoted a powerful assurance found in the Scriptures, expressing Jehovah’s personal guarantee: “I will never leave you, and I will never abandon you.” (Read Hebrews 13:5, 6; Deut. 31:6; Ps. 118:6) Christians living in Jerusalem and Judea would need this assurance. Why? Because shortly after receiving this letter, they would be obliged to leave behind their homes, their businesses, and most of their belongings. Then they would have to face what lay ahead of them. w25.05 15 ¶6

When we endure difficulties, we are able to prove that no matter what happens, we serve our heavenly Father out of love, not out of selfishness. Bible accounts show that we should not expect Jehovah to protect us from all hardship and that he does not predestine the events of our life. He knows that our happiness does not depend on our knowing what the future holds for us. Rather, it depends on seeking his guidance and obeying him. (Jer. 10:23) By looking to him when we make decisions, we are, in effect, saying: “If Jehovah wills, we will live and do this or that.”​—Jas. 4:15. w25.06 17 ¶14

Some who qualify to get baptized might delay taking this step because of peer pressure, perhaps even waiting for a particular person to take the same step. For instance, they might hope one day to get baptized on the same day as a friend or a loved one. Of course, you can get baptized at the same time as others you care about. Really, though, should such factors hold you back now? Remember, your dedication to God is a personal promise. Your baptism should not depend on what someone else does.​—Rom. 14:12. w26.02 16 ¶9

Learn to think like Jehovah. Doing so can help you to “keep perceiving what the will of Jehovah is.” (Read Ephesians 5:17.) We can learn what pleases Jehovah by reading his Word and meditating on it. We can do this even when the Bible does not discuss our specific circumstances. How? By becoming familiar with Jehovah’s way of thinking and by being willing to be guided by it. w26.03 15-16 ¶9

The prophet Jeremiah’s secretary, Baruch, temporarily fell into a trap. Baruch had a difficult assignment, namely, to support Jeremiah as he delivered a strong message to an ungrateful nation. At one point, Baruch lost his focus. Instead of concentrating on what Jehovah wanted him to do, he apparently began thinking too much about himself and what he wanted to do. Through Jeremiah, Jehovah told Baruch: “You are seeking great things for yourself. Stop seeking such things.” (Jer. 45:3-5) In other words, he was saying: “Be content with your present circumstances.” Baruch accepted the correction and continued to enjoy Jehovah’s approval. w25.07 22-23 ¶8

Take Jehovah at his word. He inspired Bible writers to describe him as he truly is. Consider the tender way in which the psalmist David described Jehovah. “Jehovah is close to the brokenhearted; he saves those who are discouraged.” (Ps. 34:18, ftn.) When you are downhearted, you may feel that you are all alone. But Jehovah promises that at such times, he is close to you because he sees that you need him more than ever. In another psalm, David wrote: “Do collect my tears in your skin bottle.” (Ps. 56:8) Jehovah sees when you struggle. He cares deeply about you and what you are going through. He, in a sense, collects your tears and treasures them, as though they were the precious water in a traveler’s skin bottle. At Psalm 139:3, we read: “You [Jehovah] are familiar with all my ways.” Jehovah sees all your ways, but he focuses on the good you do. (Heb. 6:10) Why? Because he cherishes every effort you make to please him. w25.08 10 ¶7

DO YOU appreciate it when people show you respect? No doubt you do. Respect is a basic human need. We thrive when we receive it. No wonder the Bible says that “to be respected is better than silver and gold”!​—Read Proverbs 22:1.

We may not always find it easy to show respect for others. For one thing, we cannot help but see the flaws of those around us. Also, we live at a time when it is common for people to be disrespectful. But we must be different. Why? Because Jehovah wants us to honor, or show respect for, “men of all sorts.”​—1 Pet. 2:17. w25.09 14 ¶1-2

In the Bible, the word “sin” refers not just to an action but also to a condition, one that we inherited the moment we were conceived. (Read Psalm 51:5 and footnote.) This condition not only inclines us to do wrong but also causes weaknesses that make us susceptible to disease, aging, and death. That helps explain why infants​—who have not committed any sinful acts—​can get sick and even die. It also helps explain why both bad people and good people suffer and succumb to death. Every imperfect descendant of Adam has inherited a sinful condition. w26.01 16-17 ¶9

James missed the opportunity to accompany Jesus in his ministry, but he eventually became a disciple. (Gal. 1:18, 19; 2:9) Though not an early disciple, James obviously took to heart Jesus’ teachings. For example, under inspiration he wrote a letter that alludes to the Sermon on the Mount.

Despite our best efforts, our unbelieving relatives may not show interest in the truth or respond favorably when we show personal interest in them. Why should we not give up on them? Because we will be imitating our merciful God, Jehovah, and his Son, Jesus, each time we show our relatives kindness. (Luke 6:33, 36) Over time, our loving conduct may move them to change how they feel about us. They may even remember the beliefs we shared with them in the past. If we do not give up on them, we may have the joy of seeing some of our dear relatives join us in true worship! w26.02 7 ¶20-21

Read Psalm 42:1-4. This song was written by an exiled Levite who could not associate with fellow believers. His psalm reveals how he was feeling. We may be able to relate to him if we are confined to our home or imprisoned for our faith. Our emotions may fluctuate, but we do well to express them in prayer. This may help us to examine our thoughts and put things in perspective. For example, the Levite realized that he would have new opportunities to praise Jehovah. (Ps. 42:5) He also reflected on how Jehovah was taking care of him. (Ps. 42:8) Praying earnestly to God can help us analyze our feelings, restore our balance, and find the strength to endure. w25.10 22 ¶16

In his role as the Word, Jesus has served as Jehovah’s Spokesman by conveying information and instructions to other spirit sons of God as well as to humans. (John 1:1-3) Jesus was likely the angel whom Jehovah sent to care for the Israelites during the time of the Exodus. When telling the Israelites to obey that angel, Jehovah said: “Because my name is in him.” (Read Exodus 23:20, 21.) Jehovah’s name was “in” Jesus in that he represents Jehovah and he is the principal one who upholds and sanctifies his Father’s name. w25.05 21-22 ¶8

We show respect for Jehovah’s name. (Prov. 30:9; Jer. 7:8-11) Because we represent Jehovah and bear his name, we can either praise his name or dishonor it. (Read 1 Peter 2:12.) Therefore, we want to do everything we can to praise Jehovah by means of our speech and conduct. In this way, we will bring glory to his name to the best of our imperfect abilities.

We are more concerned with Jehovah’s name than with our own reputation. (Ps. 138:2) Why is this so important? Because our love for Jehovah’s name may damage our reputation with those around us. Jesus was willing to die a shameful death as a convicted criminal in order to honor Jehovah’s name. He ‘despised shame’ in that he was not troubled or overly concerned about what others thought of him. (Heb. 12:2-4) His focus was on doing God’s will.​—Matt. 26:39. w25.05 30-31 ¶17-18

Although we expect to be persecuted, we may still find it a challenge to endure. One brother wrote regarding his time in prison: “At times, I felt depressed or worried, and I would just cry.” What helped this brother to cope? “I always prayed,” he said. “I started each morning with prayer. During the day, I prayed whenever difficult situations arose. And when injustices made me angry, I would lock myself in the bathroom and pray.” Our brother also meditated on ancient and modern-day examples of integrity. That helped him to endure the persecution and to gain the peace that Jesus promised his followers.​—John 14:27; 16:33. w26.03 30 ¶12

Read Psalm 133:1. We agree with the psalmist who wrote that true friendship with those who love Jehovah is “good” and “pleasant.” But just as a person could take for granted a majestic tree that he sees every day, we could take for granted the beauty of our Christian unity. We see our brothers and sisters often, perhaps several times a week. How can we maintain appreciation for them? Our love for our brothers and sisters will grow if we take time to think about how valuable each one is to the congregation and to us. w25.04 15 ¶4

The psalmist did not allow sadness to paralyze him. He took action. He “entered the grand sanctuary of God,” where Jehovah corrected his thinking. (Ps. 73:17-19) When we are sad, Jehovah, our best Friend, knows about it. If we pray to him for guidance and accept the help he provides through his Word and the congregation, we will receive the inner strength to endure sadness. Even when we feel overwhelmed with anxieties, Jehovah will comfort and soothe us.​—Ps. 94:19. w25.04 9 ¶7

Jehovah is “the Father of tender mercies.” (2 Cor. 1:3) He showed that quality when he promised to forgive repentant exiles. (Read Isaiah 55:7.) He said: “With everlasting loyal love I will have mercy on you.” (Isa. 54:8) How would Jehovah show his mercy? Although the Jews as a people would still have to suffer the consequences of their actions, Jehovah promised that they would not remain in Babylon forever. They would remain in exile only for a limited period of time. (Isa. 40:2) How these words must have comforted and reassured repentant ones among them! w25.05 9 ¶4

Reports indicate that some Witness parents hold their children back from baptism. The parents focus excessively on their children’s education and career, or the parents simply fail to help their children set spiritual goals. What if you feel that your parents could be more supportive of your spiritual progress? Why not discuss the matter with them? Be assured that your age does not need to prevent you from building a close friendship with Jehovah.​—Prov. 20:11. w26.02 16 ¶8

Judah was the next son to be addressed by his father. After hearing Jacob’s words to his older brothers, Judah may have felt anxious. After all, he had made some serious mistakes too. He evidently shared in plundering the city of Shechem. (Gen. 34:27) He joined his brothers in selling Joseph as a slave and in deceiving their father about it. (Gen. 37:31-33) Later, he had sexual relations with his daughter-in-law Tamar, thinking that she was a prostitute.​—Gen. 38:15-18.

Yet, under inspiration, Jacob offered Judah only blessing and commendation. (Read Genesis 49:8, 9.) Judah had shown great concern for the feelings of his elderly father. And he had also shown compassion for his youngest brother, Benjamin.​—Gen. 44:18, 30-34. w25.06 5 ¶13-14

The Bible also says: “Each one is tried by being drawn out and enticed by his own desire.” (Jas. 1:14) What entices one person may differ from what entices another. For example, some Christians might be tempted to engage in immoral behavior with someone of the opposite sex; others, with someone of the same sex. Those who have quit viewing pornography might feel a strong urge to return to the habit. Many who have stopped abusing drugs or alcohol face a similar challenge. Those are a few desires that some Christians and Bible students struggle with. At some point, all of us have likely felt the way the apostle Paul did, who wrote: “When I wish to do what is right, what is bad is present with me.”​—Rom. 7:21. w25.08 20 ¶2

During the discussion, the elder can continue to soften the ground by acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and needs counsel from time to time. (Rom. 3:23) In a calm voice and with deep respect, the elder clearly shows him from the Scriptures how he has taken a false step. Once the brother acknowledges that he has made a mistake, the elder “plants the seed” by explaining to him, in simple terms, what he needs to do to try to correct the situation. Finally, the elder “waters” the seed by sincerely commending the brother and by praying with him.​—Jas. 5:15. w25.07 12 ¶12

Read Genesis 49:13. Jacob indicates that Zebulun’s descendants would live by the seashore, toward the north of the Promised Land. Over 200 years later, the Zebulunites did receive a territorial inheritance that was located between the Sea of Galilee and the Mediterranean. Moses prophesied: “Rejoice, O Zebulun, in your going out.” (Deut. 33:18) This may have been a reference to the fact that Zebulun would have easy access to commercial trade because of being located between the two seas. Whatever the case, the descendants of Zebulun had reason to be happy.

What can we learn? We have reason to be happy, no matter where we live or what our circumstances may be. To remain happy, we must be content with what we have. (Ps. 16:6; 24:5) Sometimes it can be easier to focus on what we do not have rather than on the good things that we do enjoy. So try to see the positive in your circumstances.​—Gal. 6:4. w25.06 8-9 ¶2-3

The Bible contains many accounts of men and women who were caregivers. Consider the example of Abraham and Sarah. When they left Ur, their father, Terah, was about 200 years old. Yet, he went along with them. They traveled some 960 kilometers (600 mi) to Haran. (Gen. 11:31, 32) No doubt Abraham and Sarah loved Terah, but imagine how challenging it might have been to care for him, especially while traveling. They likely traveled on camels or donkeys, which may have been extremely difficult for aged Terah. It would have been only natural for them to feel very tired at times, perhaps even exhausted. Whatever the case, Jehovah surely gave them the strength that they needed. Just as Jehovah sustained Abraham and Sarah, he will sustain and strengthen you.​—Ps. 55:22. w25.11 11 ¶3

One way you can be anchored during a trial is to remember Jehovah’s loyal love. (Read Psalm 31:7; 136:1.) The term “loyal love” conveys the idea of a deep and lasting attachment that one person has for another. Jehovah is the supreme example of loyal love. In fact, the Bible describes him as being “abundant in loyal love.” (Ex. 34:6, 7) The Bible also says of Jehovah: “You abound in loyal love for all those who call on you.” (Ps. 86:5) Think what that means: Jehovah never abandons his faithful servants! Remembering that Jehovah is loyal can anchor you as you face a turbulent trial.​—Ps. 23:4. w25.10 12-13 ¶3

Introduce them to fellow believers. When the disciple Andrew identified Jesus as the Messiah, Andrew eagerly introduced his brother Peter to Jesus. (John 1:40-42) Can we do something similar? For example, could we occasionally invite a relative to a meeting or to a meal with our friends? As we introduce him to fellow believers, he will see that Witnesses are normal, decent people. w26.02 6 ¶18

If your student finds a point difficult to accept, remember to “preach the word . . . with all patience.” Not everyone progresses at the same rate. Some students may need extra time to grasp truths that we take for granted. Paul had to witness to the Jews in Thessalonica on several occasions, reasoning with them from the Scriptures, before some of them understood the point.​—Read Acts 17:1-4. w26.03 6 ¶11

In contrast to the blessings we gain by speaking to an elder when we need help, we can make our situation worse if we try to hide our sins. When King David tried to cover up his sins, he suffered spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. (Ps. 32:3-5) Like a physical illness or injury, a spiritual problem often gets worse if we fail to take care of it. Jehovah understands this, so he invites us to “set matters straight” with him through the means he has set up for our spiritual healing.​—Isa. 1:5, 6, 18. w25.09 5 ¶10

Of course, mature men were not the only ones who could give counsel in Israel. Really, any Israelite​—young or old, male or female—​could offer advice to a companion who needed help to improve in his worship or to correct his conduct. (Ps. 141:5) Such sincere counsel is the mark of a true friend. (Read Proverbs 27:9.) The bad example of Job’s three companions had the potential to provide the Israelites with a living pattern of what not to say and what not to do when giving counsel. w25.12 10 ¶7

Jehovah has shown great trust in us by allowing us to make our own decisions. He provides us with his Word, the Bible. And he gives us wise friends, who can help us to reason on Bible principles. He has fulfilled his responsibility as our Father. (Prov. 3:21-23) What can we do to show him our gratitude?

Consider this fact: Parents love to see their children mature and develop into thoughtful, wise, and helpful servants of Jehovah. Similarly, Jehovah is happy when he sees us continue to mature spiritually, to seek advice, and to make decisions that honor him. w25.07 7 ¶18-19

King David spoke about the spiritual shelter that Jehovah provides. (Read Psalm 27:5.) Jehovah protects his people from anyone and anything that could permanently harm their faith in Him. How does Jehovah shelter his servants from external threats? He promises that no weapon formed against them will have any success. (Ps. 34:7; Isa. 54:17) Although Satan and his agents are powerful, they are not able to cause us any lasting harm. Even if they take our life, Jehovah will give it back to us in the resurrection. (1 Cor. 15:55-57; Rev. 21:3, 4) Jehovah also helps us to cope with internal anxieties that have the potential to cause us lasting harm. (Prov. 12:25; Matt. 6:27-29) And our loving Father provides us with a spiritual family of brothers and sisters who support us and with elders who shepherd us. (Isa. 32:1, 2) When we meet together, we are often reminded of specific ways we can take advantage of Jehovah’s protection.​—Heb. 10:24, 25. w26.01 6-7 ¶15

Read Psalm 48:14. Jehovah does not expect us to guide ourselves. How does he lead his loyal worshippers today? One way he does so is through the pages of the Bible. (Ps. 119:105) By means of his inspired Word, Jehovah helps us to make decisions and cultivate qualities that lead to greater happiness now and eternal life in the future. For example, he teaches us to let go of resentment, to be honest in all we do, and to love others intensely from the heart. (Ps. 37:8; Heb. 13:18; 1 Pet. 1:22) When we display such godly qualities, we become better parents, marriage mates, and friends. w25.04 20-21 ¶3

Consider some of the mountains to which Christians could have fled: the mountains of Samaria, the mountains in Galilee, Mount Hermon and the mountains of Lebanon, and the mountains across the Jordan. (See map.) Some of the cities in those mountainous areas may have appeared to be safe havens. The city of Gamla, for example, was situated on the rough ridge of a high mountain and was extremely difficult to reach. Some Jews viewed that city as an ideal place of refuge. However, Gamla became the site of a vicious battle between the Jews and the Romans, and many of its inhabitants died. w25.05 16 ¶9

While we do not know what each new day will bring, we do know that Jehovah has promised us everlasting life​—whether in heaven or on earth. We know that he cannot lie and that nothing can prevent him from fulfilling all his promises. (Titus 1:2) He alone can “foretell the outcome, and from long ago the things that have not yet been done.” That was true of events in the past, and it will be true of future events. (Isa. 46:10) We know for a certainty that nothing can prevent Jehovah from loving us. (Rom. 8:35-39) He will give us the wisdom, comfort, and power we need to endure whatever comes our way. We can be sure that Jehovah will help and bless us.​—Jer. 17:7, 8. w25.06 17-18 ¶15

We can cultivate humility by thinking deeply about the example that Jesus set for us. Consider what happened on the night that Jesus washed his apostles’ feet. The apostle John wrote: “Jesus, knowing [1] that the Father had given all things into his hands and [2] that he came from God and [3] was going to God, . . . started to wash the feet of the disciples.” (John 13:3-5) Jesus could have felt entitled to have his own feet washed. But during his life on earth, he never felt that he deserved a more prosperous and comfortable life. (Luke 9:58) Jesus was humble; he was content. He set a perfect pattern for us.​—John 13:15. w25.07 23 ¶10

CAN you recall when you dedicated yourself to Jehovah? You made that decision because you came to know and love him. You promised him that you would put his will first in your life and that you would continue to love him with your whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Mark 12:30) Since that time, your love for him has grown stronger and stronger. How, then, would you answer if someone asked, “Are you sure that you love Jehovah?” Without hesitation, you would say, “I love him more than anyone or anything else!” w25.08 8 ¶1

Even when our life is far from ideal or when terrible things happen to us or to our family, we can still be joyful. (Ps. 126:5) Why? Because our joy does not depend on our circumstances. Maria, a pioneer, says: “When you are faced with problems, staying joyful does not mean that you are suppressing your feelings. Rather, it means that you have not forgotten Jehovah’s promises. Our Father will help us to protect our joy.” Remember, no matter how hard things are now, all our problems are temporary​—like footprints on a beach. Very soon they will be washed away, leaving no trace behind. w25.10 9 ¶10

Today we see even more injustice than Jesus saw when he was on earth. But the source of injustice in these “last days” continues to be Satan and the imperfect people under his influence. (2 Tim. 3:1-5, 13; Rev. 12:12) Like Jesus, we know that only God’s Kingdom will eliminate the root causes of injustice. Because we fully support that Kingdom, we refuse to get involved with this world’s marches, protests, and other efforts to curb injustice. Consider the experience of a sister named Stacy. Before she learned the truth, Stacy regularly joined in efforts to promote social reform. But she began to have doubts about what she was doing. She says: “When I was at protests, I would question whether I was on the correct side. Now that I support God’s Kingdom, I know that I’m on the right side. I know that Jehovah will fight for every victim of oppression better than I ever could.”​—Ps. 72:1, 4. w25.09 10-11 ¶9

During his life on earth, Jesus gave help at the right time to countless people. Today, we can have complete confidence that he will help us whenever we need it. And in the new world soon to come, he will assist obedient humans in becoming completely free of all the effects of sin and imperfection. How grateful we are to our God, Jehovah, who was moved by great love and mercy to appoint his Son as our sympathetic High Priest! w25.11 21 ¶16

Think about how that sinful condition affected the first human couple. It produced an internal upheaval within them. After they rebelled, Adam and Eve immediately experienced the consequences of their violating God’s law​—a law that was “written in their hearts.” (Rom. 2:15) They could sense a change in themselves​—and not for the better. They felt compelled to cover portions of their body and hide like criminals from their Creator. (Gen. 3:7, 8) For the first time, Adam and Eve were subject to feelings of guilt, anxiety, insecurity, pain, and shame. To one degree or another, those feelings would plague them until their death.​—Gen. 3:16-19. w26.01 17 ¶10

Read Jonah 2:1, 2. The prophet Jonah offered this prayer while in the belly of a big fish. Even though he had disobeyed Jehovah, Jonah was confident that God would hear his voice. In his petition, Jonah used many expressions that are found in the Psalms. He was likely familiar with these passages. By reflecting on them, he felt assured that Jehovah would help him. Similarly, if we try to memorize some Bible verses, they may come to mind and give us comfort when we pray to Jehovah in difficult times. w25.10 22 ¶17

Couples who are planning a Christian wedding should do so in harmony with the principles that Jehovah has outlined in his Word. Why? Because Jehovah is the Originator of marriage. He arranged for the very first wedding​—the one that joined Adam and Eve in matrimony. (Gen. 1:28; 2:24) So God’s thinking should be foremost on the minds of those who are planning a wedding.

You have a significant reason to consider Jehovah’s thinking on your wedding day: He is your heavenly Father and your best Friend. (Heb. 12:9) You undoubtedly want that to continue to be true. You would never want anything to happen on that day or any other day that would hurt your Friend. (Ps. 25:14) When you consider everything that Jehovah has done and will do for you, would you not agree that he deserves honor at your wedding?​—Ps. 116:12. w25.12 20-21 ¶3-4

We can learn about Jehovah’s way of thinking by studying the Bible and considering his dealings with humans. (Jer. 45:5) As we read the accounts, we can ask ourselves such questions as: ‘What does this teach me about Jehovah? How can I use it to shape the way I think?’ Of course, his way of thinking is higher than ours. (Isa. 55:9) So we rightly look to him to teach us how to do his will. (Ps. 143:10) And we pray confidently for help to understand his way of thinking and to adopt it as our own.​—1 John 5:14. w26.03 16 ¶10

Interestingly, immediately after telling us to take the lead in showing honor to one another, Paul exhorts us to “be industrious, not lazy.” Someone who is industrious is zealous and hardworking. When he is given a task, he carries it out diligently. Proverbs 3:27, 28 urges us: “Do not withhold good from those to whom you should give it if it is within your power to help.” Accordingly, when we see that someone is in need, we do what we can to come to his aid. We do not procrastinate; nor do we assume that someone else will care for the matter.​—1 John 3:17, 18. w25.04 16-17 ¶10

Why does Jehovah’s name need to be sanctified and vindicated? Because back in the garden of Eden, Satan the Devil dishonored and slandered Jehovah God. Satan claimed that Jehovah was a liar and that He was withholding something good from Adam and Eve. (Gen. 3:1-5) Satan also implied that Jehovah’s way of doing things was not right. Satan’s false charges directly attacked Jehovah’s reputation, or name. Later, in the days of Job, Satan claimed that those who serve Jehovah do so only because of what they can get from Him. That slanderer further charged that no human truly loves Jehovah enough to keep serving Him while under trial. (Job 1:9-11; 2:4) Time was needed in order to prove who was the liar, Jehovah or Satan. w25.05 23 ¶11

We have love that is stronger than hatred. Down to his dying breath, Jesus loved his Father with all his heart. Jesus also loved his friends. (John 13:1; 15:13) When we develop such love, both for Jehovah and for our brothers and sisters, we too will be able to conquer hatred. How so? In answer, consider the example of the apostle Paul.

Not long before he was executed, Paul wrote to his dear friend Timothy: “God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but one of power and of love.” (2 Tim. 1:7) What did Paul mean? Paul was saying that strong love for Jehovah can move a Christian to be willing to face intense trials. (2 Tim. 1:8) No doubt the love Paul had for Jehovah helped him to face death courageously, without abandoning true worship.​—Acts 20:22-24. w26.03 30 ¶13-14

Jehovah wants us to show respect for others; in fact, he requires it in connection with “the superior authorities.” (Rom. 13:1, 7) But some may say, “I am happy to show people respect, as long as they have earned it.” Is that reasoning sound? As servants of Jehovah, we realize that any respect we have for humans is not based solely on their actions. It is based on something deeper​—our love for Jehovah and our desire to please him.​—Josh. 4:14; 1 Pet. 3:15. w25.09 15 ¶5

Drawing close to Jehovah gives our life purpose. Many today who deny God’s existence think that life has no meaning and that eventually the human race will cease to exist. However, from our study of God’s Word, we have become convinced that God “is and that he becomes the rewarder of those earnestly seeking him.” (Heb. 11:6) Even today, we live happier lives because we are doing what we were designed to do​—serve our heavenly Father, Jehovah.​—Deut. 10:12, 13.

For many, their hope is limited to this life​—going to work, raising a family, and saving for retirement. God is not in the picture. On the other hand, Jehovah’s servants place their hope on him. (Ps. 25:3-5; 1 Tim. 6:17) We trust the God to whom we have drawn near, and we trust what he has promised us. Our future includes the prospect of worshipping him forever in Paradise.​—Read Psalm 37:29. w25.04 9-10 ¶9-10

Jehovah’s inspired words found at Isaiah 55:7 can comfort us if we are consumed by feelings of guilt. Some of us may continue to feel guilty for a past mistake even after we have repented. That may especially be the case if we are still suffering the consequences of our mistake. Yet, if we have confessed our sins and corrected our course, we can be sure that Jehovah has forgiven us. And when Jehovah forgives, he chooses not to remember our sin. (Compare Jeremiah 31:34.) So if Jehovah does not dwell on our past sins, neither should we. What counts with Jehovah is what we are doing now, not what mistakes we made in the past. (Ezek. 33:14-16) And soon, our Father of tender mercies will permanently free us from the consequences of our mistakes. w25.05 9-10 ¶6

Jacob foretold that Judah would have a leading role among his brothers. However, the fulfillment of that prophecy was a long time in coming. Judah is first mentioned as taking the lead some 200 years later when, after the Exodus, the tribe led the nation of Israel through the wilderness into the Promised Land. (Num. 10:14) Decades later, Judah took the lead in the conquest of the Promised Land. (Judg. 1:1, 2) And David, one of Judah’s descendants, was the first of a long line of kings coming from that tribe. But there is more.

Jacob revealed that the permanent Ruler of mankind would be a descendant of Judah. (Read Genesis 49:10 and footnote.) That Ruler is Jesus Christ, the one whom Jacob called Shiloh. Of Jesus, an angel said: “Jehovah God will give him the throne of David his father.” (Luke 1:32, 33) Jesus is also called “the Lion of the tribe of Judah.”​—Rev. 5:5. w25.06 5-6 ¶15-16

Read Romans 8:26, 27. We may at times feel so overwhelmed with anxiety that we cannot put our feelings into words. But we are not without help. At such times, God’s holy spirit “pleads” for us. How so? Through his spirit, Jehovah caused many prayers to be preserved in his Word. When we cannot clearly express our thoughts, Jehovah may accept certain expressions found in those prayers as requests that we wish to make, and he may answer them. w25.10 22-23 ¶18

Elihu spent days listening to Job defend himself from the accusations of his false comforters. Elihu felt compassion for Job. But Elihu also became hot with anger because Job had misrepresented Jehovah and had focused too much on himself. Even so, Elihu waited for his turn and then spoke in a mild and deeply respectful manner when counseling Job. (Job 32:2; 33:1-7) Elihu’s example teaches us an important truth: Advice is best given at the right time and in the right way​—with respect and love.​—Eccl. 3:1, 7. w25.07 13 ¶15

Consider an illustration. Holding on to guilt for past sins is like trying to drive a car forward while continuously looking in the rearview mirror. It is good to glance occasionally in the mirror; you can respond to potential dangers behind you. But to move forward safely, you must focus on the road ahead. Similarly, it can be helpful if we occasionally look back at our past mistakes; we can learn from them and strengthen our resolve not to repeat them. But if we keep focusing on past mistakes, the guilt we carry may limit what we can do now in serving God. Instead, may we keep focused on the road ahead of us. We are on the road that leads to life in God’s promised new world, where bad memories “will not be called to mind.”​—Isa. 65:17; Prov. 4:25. w25.08 18-19 ¶16

Some young people who love Jehovah fail to progress to baptism because of the influence of others. For example, some school counselors might advise students to “keep an open mind” about moral standards, even those that violate God’s standards. But such advice can lead to disaster. (Ps. 1:1, 2; Prov. 7:1-5) You can avoid this danger by following the example of the psalmist who told Jehovah: “I have more insight than all my teachers, because I ponder over your reminders.”​—Ps. 119:99. w26.02 16 ¶7

Our goal is to help our listeners to get to know Jehovah and to draw close to him. (Jas. 4:8) In that regard, we can compare our work to that of a lighting technician in a theater. During the show, he does not shine the light on himself. Rather, he directs it toward the main characters, ensuring that they are in the spotlight. When we teach, we should do the same​—focus attention on Jehovah, not on ourselves. w26.03 6 ¶13

If we were to hide our serious sin, we could affect others. We could hinder the flow of God’s spirit to the entire congregation and threaten the peace of our brothers and sisters. (Eph. 4:30) Likewise, if we learn that someone else in the congregation has committed a serious sin, we should urge that one to speak to the elders about the matter. Hiding the serious sin of another person would make us guilty as well. (Lev. 5:1) Our love for Jehovah should move us to come forward and to speak the truth. We thus help to keep the congregation clean and to restore such erring ones to a good relationship with Jehovah. w25.09 5 ¶11

When you first studied the Bible, what helped you to reject false teachings? Likely, you were helped by comparing what you were taught by your religion with what the Scriptures teach. Consider one example: Suppose you once believed that Jesus is Almighty God. As you studied the Bible, though, you asked yourself, ‘Is that teaching really true?’ After examining the Scriptural evidence, you were able to answer no. Then you replaced the false teaching with this Scriptural truth: Jesus is “the firstborn of all creation,” “the only-begotten Son of God.” (Col. 1:15; John 3:18) Of course, false teachings can be “strongly entrenched” and difficult to overturn. (2 Cor. 10:4, 5) But once you were able to do so, you did not return to the doctrines that you left behind.​—Phil. 3:13. w25.10 13-14 ¶5

Granted, we might find it difficult to forgive those who have hurt us. But we can succeed with the help of God’s spirit. After exhorting us to “have tender affection for one another” and to “be industrious,” the Scriptures admonish: “Be aglow with the spirit.” A person who is “aglow” is “overflowing with or radiating zeal and enthusiasm as a result of the influence” of holy spirit. (See study note on Romans 12:11.) So God’s spirit can help us to show tender affection and to forgive one another freely. Hence, we earnestly beg Jehovah to help us.​—Luke 11:13. w25.04 17 ¶12

When David obeyed Jehovah, he was protected from the harm that comes to those who sin willfully. (Compare Proverbs 5:1, 2.) By contrast, when David ignored God’s standards, Jehovah did not shelter him from the consequences of his actions. (2 Sam. 12:9, 10) What about the times when David suffered through no fault of his own? David poured out his heart to Jehovah in prayer, and Jehovah eased David’s anxiety by reassuring him that He loved him dearly and would care for him.​—Ps. 23:1-6. w26.01 7 ¶16

Be modest. (Prov. 11:2) We all have limited time and energy. So you will have to set boundaries as to what you can and cannot do and occasionally say no. And that is OK! You are being modest. If others offer to assist you, gladly accept their help. A brother named Jay says: “We can only do so much at one time. Understanding your limits and not going beyond them will help you maintain your joy.” w25.11 12 ¶9

Jehovah has also arranged for fellow believers to guide us. For instance, circuit overseers regularly visit congregations to encourage us. Their talks strengthen our faith and help us to maintain our precious unity. (Acts 15:40–16:5) Congregation elders too take a sincere interest in each publisher’s welfare. (1 Pet. 5:2, 3) Parents guide their children spiritually, helping them to develop clear thinking ability and wholesome personal habits. (Prov. 22:6) And mature Christian women help younger sisters by setting a good example, giving practical advice, and providing warm encouragement.​—Titus 2:3-5. w25.04 21 ¶5

When the great tribulation strikes, we will need to show love to one another as never before. In this regard, we will need to follow the example of those Christians living in Jerusalem and Judea. They had always shown love to one another. (Heb. 10:32-34) But in the years leading up to the end of the Jewish system of things, Christians had to show “brotherly love” and “hospitality” to an even greater degree. (Read Hebrews 13:1-3.) The same will be true for us as this system of things comes to an end.

When the Roman armies surrounded Jerusalem and then suddenly withdrew, Christians fled with relatively few belongings. (Matt. 24:17, 18) They had to depend on one another as they traveled to the mountains and as they settled in their new home. There were doubtless many “cases of urgent need,” and these would give Christians the opportunity to show genuine brotherly love and hospitality by supporting one another and sharing what they had.​—Titus 3:14. w25.05 18 ¶14-15

Perhaps because of our family background, our culture, or our previous beliefs, it may be difficult for us to see Jehovah as a loving Father who is interested in us. Or we might feel that our past mistakes are so bad that Jehovah would never want to know us and that he is far away from us. Even David at times had similar feelings. (Ps. 38:18, 21) Or a person who is sincerely trying to change his lifestyle and live by God’s righteous standards might wonder, ‘If God really understood me, why would he expect me to reject a way of life that feels so natural to me?’

We can learn to accept that Jehovah knows us better than we know ourselves and that he can see the good in us that we cannot see. Yet, though he sees flaws in us and understands why we feel and act the way we do, he loves us. (Rom. 7:15) When we come to appreciate deeply that Jehovah sees the potential in us, we can increase the confidence we need to serve him faithfully and to do so with joy. w25.06 18-19 ¶17-18

We feel more content when we meditate on the wonderful hope ahead of us. Jehovah’s own words recorded by the prophet Isaiah acknowledge how frustrating life can be today and assure us that Jehovah will relieve those frustrations. (Read Isaiah 65:21-25.) We will live in safe and comfortable housing. We will have meaningful work, and we will eat healthful and delicious food. We will never again worry about dangers to ourselves or to our children. (Isa. 32:17, 18; Ezek. 34:25) Our future is wonderful, and it is secure. w25.07 24 ¶12

Read Genesis 49:21. The “words of elegance” that Jacob mentioned may well refer to the way Jesus spoke during his ministry. Jesus, who was known for his effective teaching, made Capernaum in the territory of Naphtali “his own city.” (Matt. 4:13; 9:1; John 7:46) Of Jesus, Isaiah prophesied that the people of Zebulun and Naphtali would see “a great light.” (Isa. 9:1, 2) Jesus was “the true light that gives light to every sort of man” by means of his teaching.​—John 1:9.

What can we learn? What we say and how we say it matters to Jehovah. How can we speak with “words of elegance” that please Jehovah? We can speak truthfully. (Ps. 15:1, 2) We can build others up with what we say by being quick to commend but slow to criticize or complain. (Eph. 4:29) And we can set the goal of becoming more skillful at starting conversations that could lead to giving a witness. w25.06 12 ¶12-13

Jehovah has given us a firm hope to help us endure. (Rom. 15:13) Recall how hope helped Jesus to endure the most difficult day of his earthly life. (Read Hebrews 12:2.) Jesus knew that his faithfulness would contribute to the vindication of Jehovah’s name. Jesus also looked forward to rejoining his Father and in time serving with his brothers in the heavenly Kingdom. Similarly, our hope of living forever in God’s new world helps us to endure any hardship that Satan’s world inflicts on us. w25.08 6 ¶15

The social reform movements of this world are often marked by an independent and bitter spirit that is at odds with Jesus’ example and teachings. (Eph. 4:31) A brother named Jeffrey observes: “I know that seemingly peaceful protests can in a matter of seconds turn into violence and looting.” However, Jesus teaches us to treat all people with love, even those who disagree with us or persecute us. (Read Matthew 5:43-48.) As Christians, we do our best to avoid anything that is out of harmony with the pattern that Jesus set for us. w25.09 11 ¶10

Read Romans 13:13. If you choose to have a wedding reception, how can you prevent it from reflecting the spirit of the world? The Greek word rendered “wild parties” referred to gatherings that included overdrinking and music that went late into the night. (See “wild parties” study note on Romans 13:13.) If you choose to serve alcoholic beverages, take precautions to ensure that no one drinks too much. If there is music, keep the volume at a level that will allow your guests to enjoy conversation. Carefully review the genre of music as well as the lyrics so that no one will be stumbled. w25.12 21-22 ¶8

PRAYER is a marvelous provision. Think about it: Jehovah has delegated certain tasks to the angels. (Ps. 91:11) He has also given his Son weighty responsibilities. (Matt. 28:18) However, what about listening to prayers? That is something Jehovah has reserved for himself alone. Jehovah, the “Hearer of prayer,” personally listens to us.​—Ps. 65:2.

Although we can freely approach Jehovah about our own concerns, we should also pray for others. The apostle Paul did that. For example, he wrote to the congregation in Ephesus: “I continue mentioning you in my prayers.” (Eph. 1:16) Paul prayed for individuals too. For example, he told Timothy: “I am grateful to God, . . . never ceasing to remember you in my supplications night and day.” (2 Tim. 1:3) Paul had anxieties of his own to pray about. (2 Cor. 11:23; 12:7, 8) Still, he took the time to pray for others. w25.10 24 ¶1-2

During Jesus’ third preaching tour in Galilee, people in one area after another flocked to him, listening and being cured of their infirmities. Jesus noted that “they were skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matt. 9:36; see study notes.) Their religious leaders had considered them as too ignorant to matter, even calling them “accursed people.” (John 7:47-49; study note) But Jesus dignified them by taking the time to teach them and to cure them of their diseases. (Matt. 9:35) Furthermore, in order to help more individuals, he trained his apostles to share in the preaching work and gave them the authority to cure diseases and infirmities.​—Matt. 10:5-8. w25.11 22-23 ¶3

The ransom provides hope that “the creation itself will . . . be set free from enslavement to corruption.” (Rom. 8:21) When the benefits of the ransom are fully applied in God’s new world, we will no longer be tormented by physical, mental, or emotional illness; nor will we be plagued by crippling feelings of guilt, anxiety, insecurity, pain, or shame. Furthermore, our efforts to manage the earth and to live in peace will no longer be futile but will succeed under the rule of the one who ransomed us, the “Prince of Peace,” Jesus Christ.​—Isa. 9:6, 7. w26.01 17 ¶12

The truth that Jehovah is the Creator can teach us a lesson in humility. After Job became too focused on himself and on other humans, Jehovah reminded him that He is the almighty Creator. (Job 38:1-4) This reminder helped Job to see that God’s ways are superior to man’s ways. In line with this, the prophet Isaiah later wrote: “Should the clay say to the Potter: ‘What are you making?’”​—Read Isaiah 45:9-12.

As a Christian gains experience, he could begin to put too much trust in his own opinions rather than look to Jehovah and His Word for guidance. (Job 37:23, 24) But what if a person thinks deeply about the incomparable wisdom and greatness of his Creator? (Isa. 40:22; 55:8, 9) This fundamental truth will help him to remain humble and to put his own ideas in perspective. w25.07 15-16 ¶5-6

Read Romans 12:15. If we show interest in our loved ones when they need it most​—both in good times and in bad times—​we may help them to change their attitude toward us. For example, we could congratulate them on the birth of a child and give them a gift to show that we share in their happiness. When family members lose a loved one in death, we could speak consolingly to them, offer some practical help, or send them a comforting card. And of course, we could check on them regularly, especially when they are facing hard times. w26.02 6 ¶17

Stay busy in spiritual activities. We all feel some degree of anxiety about world events, which are beyond our control. Thus, to avoid being distracted by what we cannot control, we focus on our spiritual activities. We can be happy when we work on satisfying our spiritual need​—a need that Jehovah created us with. (Read Matthew 5:3.) We can satisfy this need by getting to know Jehovah through a study of his Word, the Bible, and by putting forth earnest effort to worship him in whatever facets of sacred service are available to us. In doing so, we will also be pleasing Jehovah because we are using our time wisely.​—Prov. 23:15. w26.03 16 ¶12

Even though Jehovah is the one “who makes it grow,” we have a role in helping a Bible student to make progress. (1 Cor. 3:7) We do more than teach him what God wants him to do. We help him to develop a deep love for Jehovah. We also encourage him to show his love by adjusting his priorities. And we teach him how to rely on Jehovah in the face of challenges. By expressing confidence in him, we strengthen his conviction that he too can live up to Jehovah’s standards and take a firm stand for the truth. w25.06 25 ¶21

Why show respect? (Read 1 Timothy 5:4, 8.) In his first letter to Timothy, Paul discussed how family members should care for one another’s needs. He explained that our primary motive for honoring those of our household in this way should be, not out of mere duty, but out of “godly devotion.” This term refers to loyal worship and service to God. Jehovah established the family arrangement. (Eph. 3:14, 15) So when we honor a family member, we actually honor Jehovah, the Originator of the family. (See study notes on 1 Timothy 5:4.) What a powerful reason to show respect for family members! w25.09 15-16 ¶8

Because of his love for Jehovah, Jesus wanted to do all he could to sanctify and vindicate Jehovah’s name. “I surrender my life,” Jesus said. (John 10:17, 18) Yes, he was even willing to die for Jehovah’s name. The first two perfect humans, Adam and Eve, turned their back on Jehovah and sided with Satan. In contrast, Jesus was willing to come to the earth and prove his love for Jehovah. Jesus did this by living a life of perfect integrity. (Heb. 4:15; 5:7-10) He maintained his integrity during his life, right down to his death on a torture stake. (Heb. 12:2) In this way, he proved his love for Jehovah and His name. w25.05 23 ¶12

We certainly love our fellow believers who remain firm in the face of persecution. Some today willingly put themselves at risk for their brothers and sisters, as Aquila and Priscilla did when they risked their lives for Paul. (Rom. 16:3, 4) In Russia, for example, many have gone to courthouses to encourage those who have been arrested. When one sister who had been arrested saw dozens of her spiritual brothers and sisters at the courthouse, she was so overcome with emotion that she could not speak for a while. The unselfish love of her fellow believers strengthened her when she really needed it. How happy we can be that we have love that is stronger than hatred! w26.03 30-31 ¶15

At times, a Christian may feel that he is entitled to a certain privilege of service. He might be very talented, hardworking, or experienced​—or perhaps all three. However, others may receive the very privilege he would like to have. How could he reason on the matter? He could reflect on what the apostle Paul wrote, as found at 1 Corinthians 4:6, 7. (Read.) Every privilege we receive and every talent we have comes from Jehovah. We do not earn or deserve these gifts. They are all expressions of Jehovah’s undeserved kindness.​—Rom. 12:3, 6; Eph. 2:8, 9. w25.07 23 ¶9

From a human standpoint, the Jewish captives were in a hopeless situation. The Babylonian World Power was known for refusing to release its captives. (Isa. 14:17) However, Jehovah provided his people with hope. He promised to set his people free, and nothing could stop him. (Isa. 44:26; 55:12) In Jehovah’s eyes, Babylon was like a film of dust. (Isa. 40:15) With a puff of air, the dust is gone. What effect could hope have on the exiles? It would comfort them. But it could do more. Isaiah wrote: “Those hoping in Jehovah will regain power.” (Read Isaiah 40:29-31.) Yes, hope would invigorate them; they would “soar on wings like eagles.” w25.05 10 ¶8

If you are a baptized Christian, you have to a great extent already drawn close to Jehovah. You have learned many truths about Jehovah God and Christ Jesus, repented of your past sins, exercised strong faith in God, and endeavored to act in harmony with his will. To draw closer to God, however, we must continue doing these things.​—Col. 2:6.

What will help us to keep drawing closer to Jehovah? (1) We must continue reading and studying the Bible. As we do so, our goal should be more than merely learning basic facts about God. Rather, we should try to perceive what God’s will is for us and to be governed by the principles that he has set out in his Word. (Eph. 5:15-17) (2) We must strengthen our faith by meditating on the abundant evidence of his love for us. (3) We must continue to hate the things that offend Jehovah and to avoid friendship with people who practice such things.​—Ps. 1:1; 101:3. w25.04 10 ¶12-13

Read Genesis 49:19. Jacob foretold that a marauder band would raid Gad. More than two centuries later, the tribe of Gad came to occupy a land east of the Jordan River​—a land that bordered enemy nations. This location made the tribe vulnerable to attack. Yet, the Gadites wanted to dwell there because it provided suitable pasturage for their livestock. (Num. 32:1, 5) The Gadites were evidently courageous people. More than that, they trusted that Jehovah would help them to defend their God-given land against any marauder band. They even sent their military forces away for years to help the other tribes conquer the rest of the Promised Land west of the Jordan. (Num. 32:16-19) They trusted that Jehovah would protect their wives and children while the men were away. Jehovah blessed them for their courage and self-sacrifice.​—Josh. 22:1-4. w25.06 10 ¶8

WHAT comes to your mind when you think of the apostle Paul? Do you think of a courageous missionary, a skilled teacher, or a prolific Bible writer? Those descriptions are certainly accurate. Yet, Paul was also a man of deep emotions. Like many of us, he at times battled with negative feelings.

Read Romans 7:21-24. In his letter to the Romans, Paul expressed feelings that many of us can relate to. Even though he was a faithful Christian, he had an inner struggle​—a battle between his earnest desire to do God’s will and his inclination to act on wrong desires. In addition to this inner conflict, Paul at times struggled with negative feelings about his past and about a persistent problem he was facing. w26.01 8 ¶1-2

We must never take for granted the basic teachings of the Bible. In his second letter, the apostle Peter wrote to Christians who were “well-established in the truth.” (Read 2 Peter 1:12, 13.) Now, however, they faced spiritual dangers within the congregation, including false teachers and ungodly men. (2 Pet. 2:1-3) Peter wanted to strengthen his brothers and sisters in order to help them resist these threats. To do so, he reminded them of some of the teachings they had already learned. These teachings would help them to keep their integrity until the end. w25.07 14-15 ¶2

How can David’s words found in Psalm 103 help us to accept Jehovah’s forgiveness? If we carry persistent guilt for past sins, we can ask ourselves: ‘Am I forgetting what Jehovah remembers​—that is, am I forgetting that he is mindful of my sinful nature and will forgive a repentant sinner like me? Am I also remembering what Jehovah chooses to forget​—that is, am I remembering the sins that he has forgiven and would never hold against me?’ Jehovah does not focus on our past sins. Neither should we. (Ps. 130:3) When we accept Jehovah’s forgiveness, we will be able to forgive ourselves for past mistakes and move on. w25.08 18 ¶15

Praying for others helps us to put our own problems in the proper perspective. (Read Philippians 2:3, 4.) Each of us contends with some hardship that comes from living in a world that is under the Devil’s control. (1 John 5:19; Rev. 12:12) When we make it a habit to pray for others, we are reminded that “the same kind of sufferings are being experienced by the entire association of [our] brothers.” (1 Pet. 5:9) A pioneer named Katherine says: “Praying for others reminds me that others too are facing challenges. That fact keeps me from becoming overly focused on my own problems.” w25.10 25 ¶7

When you call the elders, they will strive not to add to your sense of guilt. Rather, they will pray in your behalf. You might be pleasantly surprised at the “powerful effect” that their prayers can have. Their assistance also includes “applying oil to [you] in the name of Jehovah.” (Jas. 5:14-16) This “oil” refers to the truth of God’s Word. Through their skillful use of the Bible, the elders can soothe and comfort you, helping you to restore your relationship with Jehovah. (Isa. 57:18) The Scriptural guidance they share can strengthen your resolve to keep doing what is right. Through them, you can hear Jehovah’s voice telling you: “This is the way. Walk in it.”​—Isa. 30:21. w25.09 5-6 ¶13

The Bible contains many other assurances of Jehovah’s love. For example, Jesus said to his followers: “You are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matt. 10:31) Jehovah himself said to his people: “I will fortify you, yes, I will help you, I will really hold on to you with my right hand of righteousness.” (Isa. 41:10) Note how firm those statements are. Jesus does not say ‘You might be worth more,’ and Jehovah does not say ‘I might help you.’ Rather, they say: “You are worth more” and “I will help you.” If you ever doubt Jehovah’s love as you face a trial, such scriptures can do more than just help you feel better; they can help you know better. They are rooted in facts. Prayerfully meditating on that will move you to echo the words of 1 John 4:16: “We have come to know and believe the love that God has for us.” w25.10 14 ¶7

When conducting a Bible study, help your student develop the desire to please Jehovah. (Prov. 27:11) You are not merely trying to get your student to conform to a code of conduct, as if he or she were joining a club. You want your student to make changes in order to please Jehovah. For example, if your student is struggling to overcome a bad habit, ask him such questions as: “Why does Jehovah hate this practice? Why would Jehovah require that you give up something you enjoy? How does this requirement show that Jehovah loves you?” The more you motivate your student to think about Jehovah, the more he will see what a wonderful Father we have. That, in turn, will help your student want to please Jehovah. w26.03 6-7 ¶14

What if you find it difficult to accept a Bible teaching that you recently learned? Do research on that teaching, and pray to Jehovah for a clearer understanding of it. (Ps. 86:11) If you still find it difficult to understand the teaching, set the matter aside for now​—but do not stop studying the Bible. What if you find it difficult to abandon a practice that the Bible condemns? Remember that Jehovah never asks the impossible of imperfect humans. You can live by his standards. (Read Deuteronomy 30:11-14.) And Jehovah promises to help you. (Isa. 41:10, 13; 1 Cor. 10:13) So do not give up. Rather than dwell on the challenge that you are facing, focus on your appreciation for all that Jehovah has provided​—including the ransom arrangement. As your love for Jehovah grows, you will find that “his commandments are not burdensome.”​—1 John 5:3. w26.01 21-22 ¶6

Be discerning. (Read Proverbs 19:11.) When you are discerning, you are more likely to remain calm when provoked. A discerning person tries to understand why someone is acting a certain way. Understandably, some chronic diseases can cause a person to behave irrationally. (Eccl. 7:7) For example, a person who is normally kind and thoughtful might become argumentative or combative. Or he might become demanding, critical, or hard to please. If you assist someone who has a serious illness, you may find it helpful to learn about his disease. The more you understand his illness, the more likely you are to discern that his behavior is because of his condition, not because of who he is as a person.​—Prov. 14:29. w25.11 13 ¶10

How the Israelites could have benefited. Throughout Israel’s history, Jehovah appointed prophets to make his purpose known to the Israelites. For example, during the period of the Judges, Deborah provided motherly spiritual guidance to the nation and Samuel tirelessly served as Jehovah’s spokesman from his youth. (Judg. 4:4-7; 5:7; 1 Sam. 3:19, 20) Then during the time of the kings, Jehovah provided an almost continuous line of prophets to strengthen his people spiritually and to give advice to those who strayed from pure worship. (2 Sam. 12:1-4; Acts 3:24) Elihu’s example recorded in the book of Job had the potential to help faithful men and women to understand what to say and how to say it when giving counsel. w25.12 12 ¶12

Meditate on what Jehovah inspired Bible writers to say about his forgiveness. Consider, for example, how the Bible writer David described Jehovah’s forgiveness. (Read Psalm 32:5.) “You pardoned the error of my sins,” said David. The Hebrew word rendered “pardon” can mean “lift up,” “take away,” or “carry.” When forgiving David, Jehovah, in a sense, lifted up his sins and carried them away. David then found relief from the heavy guilt that he had been carrying. (Ps. 32:2-4) We can experience similar relief. When we sincerely repent of our transgressions, we need not continue to carry the burden of guilt for sins that Jehovah has lifted up and carried away from us. w25.08 16 ¶9

Jehovah also provides for his people during times of disaster. For instance, when a famine arose in the first century, Christians from various lands sent provisions to their brothers and sisters who were in need. (Acts 11:27-30; Rom. 15:25, 26) God’s people today show the same spirit of generosity. When disaster strikes, Jehovah lovingly moves his people to provide such necessities as food, water, clothing, and medicine to those living in the affected areas. Construction teams repair damaged homes and Kingdom Halls. And Jehovah’s servants are quick to provide emotional and spiritual support to those who have suffered loss. w25.04 22 ¶9

As history confirms, the Christians who fled to the mountains were able to avoid the disaster that came upon Jerusalem. They abandoned the city, but Jehovah never abandoned them. What about our day? We do not know exactly how future events will unfold. We do have Jesus’ warning to be ready to act. (Luke 12:40) We also have the admonition that Paul provided in his letter to the Hebrews, counsel that is just as applicable in our day as it was in the first century. And we have Jehovah’s personal guarantee that he will never leave us or abandon us. (Heb. 13:5, 6) May we earnestly seek the city that will remain​—God’s Kingdom—​and enjoy the everlasting blessings that it will bring.​—Matt. 25:34. w25.05 19 ¶18

In his illustration of the sower, Jesus described heart conditions that could prevent a person from making spiritual progress. Yet, Jesus also showed that some would hear “with a fine and good heart” and respond to the Kingdom message. (Luke 8:5-15) If you are concerned that your heart is divided, do not give up. With God’s help, you can “acquire a new heart,” one that will respond to his guidance. Ask Jehovah in prayer to help you soften your heart so that Kingdom truth can flourish.​—Ezek. 18:31; 36:26. w26.02 16 ¶6

We know that Jehovah is love. There is absolutely no doubt about that. (1 John 4:8) We know that his righteous standards reflect his love for us and that he always has our best interests at heart. We know that Jehovah wants us to gain everlasting life. He provided the ransom to make that possible. The gift of the ransom assures us that we can succeed despite our imperfections. (Rom. 7:24, 25) And we know that “God is greater than our hearts and knows all things.” (1 John 3:19, 20) Jehovah sees everything about us, and he has confidence that we can succeed in doing his will.

Jehovah has not deprived us of any information that we really need to have. When we modestly accept that fact, we avoid undue anxiety over what we cannot control and we can focus on what really matters. In doing so, we demonstrate that our full trust is in Jehovah, “the One perfect in knowledge.” (Job 36:4) While our understanding of some matters is limited now, we look forward to an eternity of learning new things from and about our Grand God.​—Eccl. 3:11. w25.06 19 ¶19-20

Since hope is vital to our contentment, how can we strengthen it? Just as a person may need to put on eyeglasses to see distant objects more clearly, we might need to take appropriate steps to strengthen our hope so that we can see the future Paradise more clearly. When we are consumed by worry about our finances, we can picture what our life will be like when money, debt, and economic inequality are gone. If we are anxious about privileges of service that we have not yet received, we can think about how insignificant such anxieties will be after we reach perfection and have served Jehovah for thousands of years. (1 Tim. 6:19) We may at first find it challenging to meditate on the future instead of worrying about the present. Over time, however, looking to the future that Jehovah has promised can become natural to us. w25.07 24-25 ¶14

Jehovah provides us with a Christian brotherhood to help us endure. Just knowing that “the same kind of sufferings are being experienced by the entire association of [our] brothers” assures us that we are not alone. (1 Pet. 5:9) Indeed, we can be certain that whatever situation we face, others have faced something similar, and they have endured. That means we too can endure!​—Acts 14:22.

As we endure, fellow believers can encourage us. The apostle Paul found that to be true. He often expressed appreciation for those who helped him while he was under house arrest, referring to them by name. They provided Paul with comfort, encouragement, and practical assistance. (Phil. 2:25, 29, 30; Col. 4:10, 11) Today we may experience something similar. When we need help to endure, our brothers and sisters are there for us; and when they need support, we are there for them.​—Read 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4. w25.08 5 ¶11-12

Consider the apostle Peter’s example. He was one of the first Jews to recognize that Jesus was the Messiah​—the one whom Jehovah was using to feed His people “sayings of everlasting life.” (John 6:66-68) Before the resurrected Jesus ascended to heaven, he gave Peter this commission: “Feed my little sheep.” (John 21:17) Peter fulfilled that commission faithfully, and Jehovah even used him to write two letters that became part of the Bible. But Peter also needed to nourish himself with spiritual food. For example, he studied the inspired letters that the apostle Paul wrote previously. Peter acknowledged that some of the things Paul wrote about were “hard to understand.” (2 Pet. 3:15, 16) But Peter obviously persisted, having faith that Jehovah would help him to digest, or understand and apply, the “solid food” that Paul had been inspired to serve in his letters.​—Read Hebrews 5:14–6:1. w26.01 4 ¶7

Praying for others “has a powerful effect.” (Read James 5:16.) Can praying for others really affect the outcome of a situation? Yes, it can. Jesus, knowing that the apostle Peter would soon deny him, said: “I have made supplication for you that your faith may not give out.” (Luke 22:32) Paul also knew that prayer can make a difference. When he was unjustly imprisoned in Rome, he wrote to Philemon: “I am hoping that through your prayers I will be given back to you.” (Philem. 22; see study note “for I am hoping that through your prayers.”) As it turned out, Paul was soon freed and was able to resume his preaching. w25.10 25 ¶4

Take an interest in their lives. After being resurrected, Jesus showed interest in his brother James by appearing to him personally. (1 Cor. 15:7) Can you imagine how James must have felt when he realized that Jesus had not given up on him? This reunion likely convinced James that Jesus was the Messiah. After that meeting, James may have helped other members of his family to come to the right conclusion about Jesus’ identity.​—Acts 1:14. w26.02 5-6 ¶16

Is it customary where you live for guests to offer a gift to the married couple? The financial situation of some guests may affect the type of gift that they choose to give. Of course, Christians are encouraged to give, and it makes them happy to do so. (Prov. 11:25; Acts 20:35) However, we would not want to make our guests feel obligated to give; nor would we make them feel that a modest gift would not be appreciated. We imitate Jehovah, striving to have his view of gifts by letting others give according to their means and from the heart.​—2 Cor. 9:7. w25.12 22-23 ¶13

Jesus not only taught crowds of people but also gave attention to individuals. For example, during his Galilean ministry, Jesus met a woman who had suffered from an abnormal flow of blood for 12 years. (Mark 5:25) Because her medical condition made her ceremonially unclean, anyone touching her would become unclean. This must have greatly limited her contact with people. Furthermore, she could not join others in the observances and celebrations of public worship. (Lev. 15:19, 25) No doubt this woman suffered both physically and emotionally.​—Mark 5:26. w25.11 23 ¶5

When we stay busy in spiritual activities, we keep a balanced view of the times we live in. As we witness ongoing political unrest, economic downturns, and widespread diseases, we are not shaken. We see these things for what they are​—proof that Bible prophecy is being fulfilled. Rather than be unduly distracted by fear, we are confident about Jehovah’s purpose for our future. We can keep calm as we continue trusting in Jehovah to help us cope.​—Ps. 16:8; 112:1, 6-8. w26.03 16-17 ¶14

By his life course, Jesus proved beyond any doubt that Satan is the liar, not Jehovah! (John 8:44) Jesus knew Jehovah better than anyone else who had ever lived. If there was any truth to Satan’s accusations against Jehovah, Jesus would have known about it. But Jesus remained firm in defending Jehovah’s reputation, or name. Even when it appeared that Jehovah had abandoned him, Jesus was willing to die rather than turn his back on his loving Father.​—Matt. 27:46. w25.05 23 ¶13

The early disciples quickly recognized Jesus as the promised Messiah, but they needed help to make the ministry their priority. Peter and Andrew had already been disciples for some time when Jesus invited them to follow him full-time. (Matt. 4:18, 19) They were involved in a thriving fishing business, apparently associated with James and John. (Mark 1:16-20) When Peter and Andrew “abandoned their nets,” they likely made plans to provide for their family while they followed Jesus. What moved them to adjust their priorities? The account in Luke tells us that Jesus performed a miracle that strengthened their confidence in Jehovah’s ability to provide for them.​—Read Luke 5:5-11. w25.06 22-23 ¶10

How to show respect. Elders, endeavor to instruct others on the basis of love. (Philem. 8, 9) If you need to counsel someone, do so kindly and not when you are frustrated. Sisters, you can do much to create and to protect the atmosphere of respect in the congregation by refusing to engage in negative gossip or slander. (Titus 2:3-5) All of us can show that we respect congregation elders by cooperating with them and by expressing gratitude for the hard work they do to conduct meetings, to direct the preaching work, and to help those who have taken “a false step.”​—Gal. 6:1; 1 Tim. 5:17. w25.09 17 ¶13

Read 1 Corinthians 10:31. It is vital that we actively pursue the things that please Jehovah. This goes beyond what we do in the ministry and at congregation meetings. Good actions that please Jehovah include what we do in our daily life. For instance, when we are honest in all things and share what we have with others, we make Jehovah happy. (2 Cor. 8:21; 9:7) He also wants us to show high regard for the gift of life. We draw closer to the Giver of life by maintaining balanced habits in eating and drinking and by caring for our health in other reasonable ways. Every effort we make to please Jehovah, even in seemingly small things, will endear us to him.​—Luke 16:10. w25.04 10-12 ¶14

Some who love Jehovah put off getting baptized because they think that they lack sufficient knowledge. But how much do you really need to know? Consider a Scriptural example. After an earthquake shook the prison where the apostle Paul and Silas were being held, they witnessed to the jailer and his household. The man and his family likely understood that a miracle had taken place. Additionally, they learned a great deal that night. As a result, they were moved to get “baptized without delay.” (Acts 16:25-33) If you know Jehovah, love him with your whole heart, have gained a basic knowledge of Bible teachings, have repented of your sins, and are determined to keep living by his standards, you are ready for baptism.​—Mark 12:30. w26.02 15 ¶3

One of the ways we can find Jehovah is by studying the Bible. The men who wrote that book were inspired by God’s holy spirit. (2 Pet. 1:20, 21) So everything contained in the Bible is the truth and is worthy of our trust. For example, we can trust what it says about the origin of our universe and of life on earth. (Gen. 1:1, 26) We can believe what it says about why we all sin and why there is so much suffering and death. (Rom. 5:12; 6:23) We can trust it completely when it says that Jehovah, by means of his Son, will undo all the damage done by Satan, “the father of the lie.” (John 8:44; Rom. 16:20) And we can rely on the Bible’s promise that Jesus will destroy the wicked, raise the dead, restore the earth, and help us to become perfect. (John 11:25, 26; 1 John 3:8) What a privilege Jehovah has given us! He has taught us the truth, and he gives us the opportunity to teach it to others.​—Matt. 28:19, 20. w26.01 27 ¶6

Jehovah also gave the exiles reason to trust in his promises. How? Think about the prophecies that had already been fulfilled. They knew that Assyria had conquered the northern kingdom of Israel and taken the people into exile. (Isa. 8:4) They saw the Babylonians destroy Jerusalem and take its inhabitants into exile. (Isa. 39:5-7) They were alive when King Zedekiah was blinded and deported to Babylon. (Jer. 39:7; Ezek. 12:12, 13) Everything that Jehovah had foretold came true. (Isa. 42:9; 46:10) How all of this must have strengthened their faith that Jehovah’s promise of a liberation would also come true! w25.05 10-11 ¶9

What can we learn? We want to give Jehovah our best. To do so, we need to reject the world’s view of material comforts and possessions. (Prov. 18:11) We strive to maintain a balanced view of money. (Eccl. 7:12; Heb. 13:5) We do not allow the pursuit of unnecessary material things to hold us back in our service to God. Instead, we seek to give Jehovah the best of our time and energy now, knowing that a truly comfortable and secure life awaits us in the future.​—Ps. 4:8. w25.06 12 ¶11

PEOPLE around the world react differently to getting old. For example, imagine this scenario: Do you remember when you noticed your first gray hair? You may have been tempted to pull it out before anyone saw it. But you realized that pulling out gray hairs was not going to stop more of them from appearing. This example illustrates how hard many individuals resist getting older.

However, our heavenly Father has a different view of his servants who are aging. (Prov. 16:31) He likens them to thriving trees. (Read Psalm 92:12-14.) Why is that comparison fitting? Trees that are laden with leaves and fragrant flowers are often many decades old. One of the most striking trees is the Japanese flowering cherry. Some of the most beautiful ones are over a thousand years old. Much like these mature trees, faithful ones who are up in years are beautiful, especially in God’s eyes. Jehovah sees the person behind the gray hair. And He appreciates the beautiful qualities of older ones​—their endurance and loyalty—​as well as their many years of faithful service to Him. w25.11 2 ¶1-2

Why does God permit suffering? Some who have been unable to answer that question have become angry at God or have concluded that he does not exist at all! (Prov. 19:3) By contrast, you have learned that inherited sin and imperfection, not Jehovah, have caused suffering. You have also learned that Jehovah’s patience with humans has allowed millions to come to know him and to see for themselves how Jehovah will end suffering permanently. (2 Pet. 3:9, 15) These truths have reassured you and drawn you closer to him.

We understand the need to be patient while we wait for Jehovah to end suffering. Yet, when we or our loved ones experience distress, injustice, or loss, we may wonder why Jehovah is not acting more quickly. (Hab. 1:2, 3) At such times, we are wise to reflect on the reasons why Jehovah allows the righteous to suffer hardship. (Ps. 34:19) We can also reflect on his purpose to bring suffering to an end once and for all. w25.07 16 ¶8-9

We can trust our congregation elders. They have been trained to keep our confidential matters private, to base their counsel on the Bible rather than on their own opinions, and to follow through in helping us carry our burdens. (Prov. 11:13; Gal. 6:2) Their personalities and experience vary, but we can feel free to approach any elder to discuss a problem. Of course, we would not go from one elder to another, asking for advice, hoping to find one who will tell us what we want to hear. If we were to do that, we would be like those who would rather have “their ears tickled” than learn the “wholesome teaching” of God’s Word. (2 Tim. 4:3) When we approach an elder about a problem, he may ask us if we have talked with other elders about it and what counsel they gave. And modesty may move him to ask another elder for advice.​—Prov. 13:10. w25.09 6-7 ¶15

How far-reaching is Jehovah’s forgiveness? (Read Psalm 103:12.) David says that when Jehovah forgives, He puts our sins “as far off as the sunrise [east] is from the sunset [west].” In a sense, east is always at the utmost distance imaginable from west; the two points can never meet. What does this tell us about the sins that Jehovah forgives? One reference work illustrates it this way: “If sin be removed so far, then we may be sure that the scent, the trace, the very memory of it must be entirely gone.” Just think​—a scent can trigger a memory. But when Jehovah forgives, it is as if not even a trace of a scent remains that would call to mind the sin and cause him to hold it against us.​—Ezek. 18:21, 22; Acts 3:19. w25.08 18 ¶14

Many problems can be averted by your thinking ahead. (Prov. 22:3) For example, if you live in an area where it is common for uninvited guests to show up at a wedding reception, consider what you can do to prevent this from happening. Make sure that any relatives who are not in the truth know what they can expect, and explain your view of certain wedding customs. You could share with them the article “What Happens at a Wedding of Jehovah’s Witnesses?” found on jw.org. To help you stay in control of what takes place at your reception, consider having a mature brother serve as “the director of the feast.” (John 2:8) If you clearly communicate your wedding plans to him, he can help you to make sure that the wedding remains dignified and goes as planned. w25.12 25 ¶19

Jesus had just told his disciples that they should pray through him but not to him. (John 16:23, 24) It was important for them to know that. After his resurrection, the disciples might have been inclined to pray to Jesus. After all, they had come to know Jesus as a friend. They could have reasoned that his affection for them would move him to hear their entreaties and present their requests to the Father. However, Jesus said that they should not think this way. Why? Because, he told them: “The Father himself has affection for you.” That fact is part of the Bible’s basic teaching about prayer. Consider what that means for you: Through your study of the Bible, you have come to know and to love Jesus. (John 14:21) But like the first-century disciples, you can confidently pray to God, knowing that he “himself has affection for you.” You demonstrate your faith in those words each time you pray to Jehovah.​—1 John 5:14. w25.10 15 ¶10

Make time to strengthen your friendship with Jehovah. At times, you will need to put aside some activities to care for other matters that are “more important.” (Phil. 1:10) One of these more important matters is strengthening your relationship with Jehovah. King David made Jehovah’s worship a priority. (Read Psalm 132:4, 5.) Similarly, it is important for you to prioritize some time each day to read a portion of the Bible and to pray. A sister named Elisha says: “I am able to maintain my joy by praying and by meditating on comforting psalms. Prayer has been a lifeline for me. I find myself praying to Jehovah throughout the day to stay calm.” w25.11 13 ¶11

How can we imitate the angels’ concern for the cleanness of the congregation? By doing our part to keep our congregation morally and spiritually clean. To this end, we strive to safeguard our heart by choosing good associates and by rejecting any influence that seeks to corrupt us. (Ps. 101:3) We can also help our fellow worshippers to remain faithful to Jehovah. For example, what should we do if we learn that a fellow believer has committed a serious sin? Out of love for that person, we would urge our fellow believer to speak with the elders. If that person fails to do so, we would inform the elders about the matter. We want any spiritually weak fellow believer to get help quickly!​—Jas. 5:14, 15. w25.05 7 ¶14

Jesus imitates his Father. Like his Father, Jesus is humble. As a result, while he was on earth, people felt comfortable approaching him. They felt at ease with asking him questions. (Mark 4:10, 11) So when he invited their comments on a matter, they would tell him what they truly felt. (Matt. 16:13-16) And when they made mistakes, they did not cringe in fear; they knew that Jesus was kind, merciful, and patient. (Matt. 17:24-27) It is significant that because of how well Jesus imitated his Father, Jesus’ followers came to know Jehovah better. (John 14:9) They learned that Jehovah was nothing like the harsh, proud, and aloof religious leaders of the day. Rather, he was humble and approachable. w25.12 15 ¶4

After he became a Christian, the apostle Paul was at times troubled by his past. His previous actions as a relentless persecutor of Christians may have bothered him even more as the years went by. For example, when he wrote his first letter to the Corinthians in about 55 C.E., he said: “I am not worthy of being called an apostle, because I persecuted the congregation of God.” (1 Cor. 15:9) Some five years later, in his letter to the Ephesians, he described himself as being “less than the least of all holy ones.” (Eph. 3:8) When writing to Timothy, Paul referred to himself as being formerly “a blasphemer and a persecutor and an insolent man.” (1 Tim. 1:13) Can you imagine how Paul must have felt when he visited a congregation and met those he had persecuted or the family members of those he had persecuted? w26.01 9 ¶5

Read Galatians 6:9. Even if our relatives are not yet interested in our beliefs, we should be patient with them and not give up in “doing what is fine.” We know that it takes time for a person to overcome deep-seated prejudice and to build faith. At one time, were you like those who had “no hope and were without God in the world”? (Eph. 2:12) If so, no doubt someone came to your aid. Are you not also moved to help fill the spiritual needs of your family, if possible? w26.02 3 ¶6

You can ask Jehovah in prayer to help you analyze your art of teaching to see where you can improve. (1 John 5:14) Working in harmony with your prayers, you can take to heart the training that Jehovah gives at congregation meetings. You can invite capable teachers to go with you on your Bible study. Then ask for feedback. Remember, too, that although you are familiar with the material, your student is not. Try to look at the material through his eyes. Then help your student to realize that our message is truly good news. It can move him to have a close friendship with Jehovah and can bring him genuine happiness.​—Ps. 1:1-3. w26.03 7 ¶15

What protection does Jehovah provide for us as individuals? Through the Scriptures, Jehovah helps us discern right from wrong. (Heb. 5:14) When we live by the principles found in God’s Word, we shield ourselves from both spiritual and physical harm. (Ps. 91:4) Additionally, Jehovah provides protection through the congregation. (Isa. 32:1, 2) By surrounding ourselves with those who love Jehovah and who live by his principles, we receive encouragement and are strengthened to resist harmful influences.​—Prov. 13:20.

Jehovah at times protected his worshippers in the past from physical harm. However, he did not do so in every case. Sometimes we fall victim to “unexpected events.” (Eccl. 9:11) Also, Jehovah has allowed his servants throughout history to face persecution and even death in order to prove Satan a liar. (Job 2:4-6; Matt. 23:34) The same is true today. Although Jehovah may not remove our trials, we can be sure that he will never abandon those who love him.​—Ps. 9:10. w25.04 23 ¶13-14

In his prayer, Jesus said: “I have made your name known to them.” In fact, he twice mentioned that he had made Jehovah’s name known to his disciples. (Read John 17:6, 26.) What did he mean? Had he revealed to them a name that they did not know? Jesus’ disciples were Jews, so they already knew God’s name, Jehovah. That name appeared thousands of times in the Hebrew Scriptures. So Jesus was not referring to the personal name of God; rather, he was referring to what that name represented. Jesus had made known the Person behind Jehovah’s name, including His purposes, activities, and qualities, in a way that no one else ever could. w25.05 20-21 ¶3

Bible principles can help us endure. After all, they contain practical wisdom that can assist us in making sound decisions. (Prov. 2:6, 7) For example, the Bible encourages us to take one day at a time rather than become unduly worried about what tomorrow may or may not bring. (Matt. 6:34) If we have a habit of reading the Scriptures and meditating on them, we are more likely to recall the principles we need when we need them.

The Bible also contains true-life accounts of ordinary people who trusted in Jehovah and received his support. (Heb. 11:32-34; Jas. 5:17) When we reflect on such accounts, we build our confidence that Jehovah is “our refuge and strength, a help that is readily found in times of distress.” (Ps. 46:1) As we take note of the faithful course of Jehovah’s servants in the past, we are moved to imitate their faith and their endurance.​—Jas. 5:10, 11. w25.08 4 ¶8-9

Nicodemus, a prominent leader of the Jews, faced an obstacle to becoming one of Jesus’ disciples. Only about six months after Jesus began his ministry, Nicodemus recognized Jesus as God’s representative. (John 3:1, 2) However, Nicodemus chose to meet Jesus secretly for “fear of the Jews.” (John 7:13; 12:42) He may have thought that he had too much to lose by becoming a disciple of Jesus.

Nicodemus had knowledge of the Law, but he needed help in understanding what Jehovah expected of him. How did Jesus help him? Jesus was generous with his time, even meeting Nicodemus at night. And Jesus clearly stated what Nicodemus had to do in order to become a disciple: repent of his sins, get baptized in water, and exercise faith in the Son of God.​—John 3:5, 14-21. w25.06 20-21 ¶3-4

Jesus came to the earth in the name of his Father. (John 5:43; 12:13) He made known his Father’s name to his followers. (John 17:6, 26) He taught in Jehovah’s name and performed miracles in that name. (John 10:25) In fact, Jesus asked Jehovah to watch over his disciples “on account of [His] own name.” (John 17:11) So, then, if Jesus felt that strongly about Jehovah’s name, how can someone claim to be a genuine follower of Christ and not know or use the name of his Father? w25.05 26 ¶2

Keep a clear view of what is truly important. Much of today’s world is focused on recreation, not on the approaching end of this system. While recreation has its place, we need to be “sound in mind” to avoid being influenced by the world’s view. (Read 1 Peter 4:7.) What does this mean for us? Among other things, it means that we develop good judgment in order to keep a balanced view of recreation and make wise decisions. Such decisions will reflect Jehovah’s thinking and will show that we have grasped what is truly important.​—2 Tim. 1:7. w26.03 17 ¶15

What can help us to control our feelings of anger over an injustice? Many have found it helpful to be selective in what they read, listen to, and watch. Some forms of social media are full of posts that sensationalize injustices and that promote social reform movements. Often, news agencies report information in a biased way. Even if we hear a report about a valid injustice, will dwelling on it really help us? If we spend a lot of time consuming such information, we may become needlessly frustrated or discouraged. (Prov. 24:10) Even worse, we could lose sight of the ultimate solution to all injustice​—God’s Kingdom. w25.09 12 ¶12

Who can be included in our prayers? We can pray for groups of people​—for example, those who have health problems, young ones who face ridicule and peer pressure at school, or those who face the challenges of old age. Many of our fellow believers endure opposition, either from family members or from governments. (Matt. 10:18, 36; Acts 12:5) Some of our brothers have had to abandon their homes because of political unrest. Others are victims of natural disasters. We may not know these brothers and sisters personally. But when we pray for them, we show that we are following Jesus’ command to “love one another.”​—John 13:34. w25.10 25-26 ¶8

Jesus treated the woman with kindness and respect. He noticed that she was “frightened and trembling.” (Mark 5:33) Mindful of her feelings, he spoke reassuringly to her. He even called her “daughter”​—a term of endearment that was not merely polite but also kind and tender. (Read Mark 5:34.) The study note for this term states that this is “the only recorded instance in which Jesus directly addressed a woman as ‘daughter,’ perhaps because of her delicate situation and her ‘trembling.’” Imagine how relieved she must have felt! Had Jesus not spoken reassuringly, she might have walked away physically cured but emotionally burdened with feelings of guilt. Instead, Jesus helped her to see herself as she truly was​—a precious daughter of a loving heavenly Father. w25.11 23 ¶7

Jacob also mentioned archers who “shot at [Joseph] and kept harboring animosity against him.” (Gen. 49:23) These were his once envious brothers, who were responsible for many of the injustices that he had experienced. Yet, Joseph did not become bitter toward his brothers or toward Jehovah. As Jacob put it: “[Joseph’s] bow remained in place, and his hands stayed strong and agile.” (Gen. 49:24) Joseph relied on Jehovah during his trials, and he not only forgave his brothers but also treated them kindly. (Gen. 47:11, 12) Joseph allowed the trials he faced to refine him. (Ps. 105:17-19) As a result, Jehovah was able to use him in a mighty way.

What can we learn? May we never allow trials to distance us from Jehovah or from our fellow worshippers. Remember that Jehovah may permit tests of faith to be part of our training. (Heb. 12:7, ftn.) This training can help us to cultivate and refine Christian qualities, such as mercy and forgiveness. (Heb. 12:11) Jehovah will reward us for our endurance, as he did Joseph. w25.06 12-13 ¶15-16

The apostle Paul told Timothy to “ponder over” and “be absorbed in” his own Christian activities. (Read 1 Timothy 4:13, 15.) In harmony with that counsel, try to think of ways that you can make your worship more meaningful so that you can remain “aglow with the spirit.” (Rom. 12:11; see study note on “Be aglow with the spirit.”) For example, perhaps you could improve your attention at meetings by preparing for them more thoroughly. Or you may be able to make your personal study sessions more rewarding by creating periods of solitude that will allow you to meditate on what you studied. Just as you would stoke a fire to keep it burning, you can apply yourself in these areas in order to rekindle your appreciation for all that Jehovah has provided, including the ransom. Also, why not use the weeks leading up to the Memorial to meditate on the unique blessings we enjoy as Jehovah’s Witnesses? No doubt that will help you build appreciation for the ransom​—the basis for your relationship with Jehovah. w26.01 23 ¶10

Even though we are busy serving Jehovah, we do not want to give our relatives the impression that we have no time for them or that we no longer love them. (Matt. 7:12) How can we show that we care about them? Consider a few ways.

Keep in touch, and express your love for them. We show that we love our relatives by regularly letting them know how we are doing. For example, we could send them a text message along with a few pictures taken during a vacation, a trip, or a get-together with friends. A modest gift or a kind letter may be all that is needed to improve the relationship. By taking the initiative in such ways, we tell them that we love them. w26.02 5 ¶13-14

What you can do. As you endure a test of faith, “throw your burden on Jehovah” and pray for his peace. (Ps. 55:22) Pray also for the wisdom you need so that you can deal with your challenge. (Prov. 2:10, 11) Along with your supplications for endurance, do not forget to offer prayers of thanksgiving. (Phil. 4:6) Look for indications that Jehovah is sustaining you during your trial, and thank him for his support. Do not let your trial blind you to the blessings you have already received.​—Ps. 16:5, 6. w25.08 4 ¶6

In the prayer he offered the night before he died, Jesus could say: “I have . . . finished the work you have given me to do.” He trusted that Jehovah would reward him for his faithfulness. (John 17:4, 5) Jesus’ trust in his Father was not misplaced. Jehovah did not allow him to remain in the grave. (Acts 2:23, 24) He resurrected Jesus and gave him a superior position in heaven. (Phil. 2:8, 9) Eventually, Jesus began ruling as King of God’s Kingdom. What would that Kingdom accomplish? The second part of the model prayer tells us: “Let your Kingdom come. Let your [Jehovah’s] will take place, as in heaven, also on earth.”​—Matt. 6:10. w25.05 24 ¶14

If the psalmist felt rejected by Jehovah, the feeling must have been only momentary. It seems that at his lowest point, he recognized a need to draw closer to God, as indicated by his words: “But now I am continually with you [Jehovah]; you have taken hold of my right hand. You guide me with your advice, and afterward you will lead me to glory.” (Ps. 73:23, 24) We too should look to Jehovah as a stabilizing rock when we feel weak or discouraged. (Ps. 73:26; 94:18) Even if our feet do stray temporarily, we can return to Jehovah with the assurance that he is “ready to forgive.” (Ps. 86:5) Especially when we are at our lowest point, we should draw closer to our God.​—Ps. 103:13, 14. w25.04 13 ¶17

As he did with the exiles, Jehovah has also given us many reasons to trust in his promises. Think about the prophecies that we see being fulfilled. For example, we see a world power that is “partly strong and partly fragile.” (Dan. 2:42, 43) We also hear of “earthquakes in one place after another,” and we share in preaching to “all the nations.” (Matt. 24:7, 14) These prophecies and many others strengthen our faith in Jehovah’s comforting promises that are yet to be fulfilled. w25.05 11-12 ¶12

Even if our prayers do not seem to affect the outcome of a situation, they do reflect our love for our brothers and sisters, and Jehovah takes note of that. We can illustrate it this way: Imagine a family with two small children​—a boy and a girl. The boy is sick in bed. The girl begs her father: “Please do something for my brother. He’s really sick!” The father already has the situation under control; he loves his son and is taking good care of him. However, how happy the father must be to see his young daughter care so much about her brother that she begs her father to help him. w25.10 29 ¶17

Read Genesis 49:22, 26. Jacob must have been very proud of Joseph​—he was “singled out from his brothers.” Jacob called him “the offshoot of a fruitful tree.” Jacob himself was the tree, and Joseph was an offshoot of his. Joseph was the firstborn son of Jacob’s beloved wife, Rachel. Jacob indicated that Joseph would receive the double portion that Reuben​—Jacob’s firstborn from his wife Leah—​had forfeited. (Gen. 48:5, 6; 1 Chron. 5:1, 2) In the fulfillment of that prophecy, the descendants of Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, received an allotment of land as two separate tribes.​—Gen. 49:25; Josh. 14:4. w25.06 12 ¶14

David says that Jehovah “well knows how we are formed.” He formed Adam “out of dust from the ground” and well knows that perfect humans have natural limitations​—for example, the need to eat, sleep, and breathe. (Gen. 2:7) But when Adam and Eve sinned, being dust took on added meaning. As their offspring, we inherited a sinful nature that makes us prone to doing wrong things. Jehovah is not just aware of our sinful nature; David speaks of him as “remembering” it. The Hebrew word used here can mean to take positive action. We might sum up the meaning of David’s words this way: Jehovah understands that we will fall short at times; when we do, he is moved to respond to our heartfelt repentance by showing us mercy and forgiveness.​—Ps. 78:38, 39. w25.08 16-18 ¶13

Knowing the truth about why God permits suffering can motivate us to keep preaching. After explaining that Jehovah’s patience means salvation for those who repent, Peter wrote: “Consider what sort of people you ought to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion.” (2 Pet. 3:11) Among those “deeds of godly devotion” is our field ministry. Like our Father, we love people. We want them to live in God’s righteous new world. Jehovah is patiently giving the people in your community an opportunity to worship him. What a privilege you have to be God’s fellow worker and to help as many as possible to learn about him before the end comes!​—1 Cor. 3:9. w25.07 17 ¶11

Some hold back from getting baptized out of fear. For example, although they want to serve Jehovah, they are afraid that they will never be good enough to please him. If you feel this way, review Bible verses that can convince you that Jehovah does not expect perfection and that he is pleased with your worship when you give him your best. (Ps. 103:13, 14; Col. 3:23) If you fear opposition, ask Jehovah to give you the same confidence expressed by the psalmist who wrote: “Jehovah is on my side; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”​—Ps. 118:6. w26.02 14 ¶2

Although the elders keep watch over us as God’s sheep, they do not tell us what to do. We have a personal responsibility to live a life of godly devotion. We must answer to God for our own words and actions. With his support, we can meet the challenge of keeping our integrity. (Rom. 14:12) So rather than dictate a course of action to us, the elders direct attention to God’s thinking as found in his Word. By following their Bible-based counsel, we can train our own “powers of discernment” to make wise decisions.​—Heb. 5:14. w25.09 7 ¶16

Where do doubts about Jehovah’s love come from? You might answer that they originate with Satan, and there is some truth to that. The Devil is “seeking to devour” us, and he would be glad if we were to doubt Jehovah’s love. (1 Pet. 5:8) After all, Jehovah’s love moved Him to provide the ransom​—something that Satan would like us to feel unworthy of. (Heb. 2:9) But who benefits if we doubt Jehovah’s love? Satan does. And whose purpose is served if we give up under hardship? It is Satan’s. Consider the irony of Satan’s attempt to make us doubt Jehovah’s love. Satan is really the one who has lost Jehovah’s love. Yet, in one of his most “crafty acts,” he tries to make us feel that we are the ones who are unloved and condemned by Jehovah. (Eph. 6:11) When we realize what our enemy is trying to do, we can strengthen our resolve to “oppose the Devil.”​—Jas. 4:7. w25.10 15-16 ¶11

A contented servant of Jehovah will still face problems. King David suffered the loss of at least three of his children. He was wrongly accused, betrayed, and hunted as a fugitive for years. Still, while enduring a severe trial, he said of Jehovah: “Those who fear him lack nothing.” (Ps. 34:9, 10) Why could he say that? Because although we, as Jehovah’s people, do not expect a trouble free life, we are certain that we will never lack what we truly need. (Ps. 145:16) And we can count on Jehovah to sustain us through all our trials. We can be content.

Jehovah wants you to be content. (Ps. 131:1, 2) So endeavor to learn the secret of contentment. If you work hard to cultivate gratitude, to remain focused and humble, and to strengthen your hope, you will be able to say: “Yes, I am content.”​—Ps. 16:5, 6. w25.07 25 ¶16-17

Maintain a sense of humor. (Read Proverbs 17:22; Eccl. 3:1, 4) Laughter is good for your physical and mental health. When you are caring for someone, rarely, if ever, does everything go exactly as planned. But if you can find humor in frustrating situations, you will likely find them easier to bear. And laughing with the person you care for can strengthen your bond.

Talk to a trusted friend. Despite your best efforts, you will still feel overwhelmed occasionally. At such times, you may find it helpful to share your feelings with a good friend​—one who will not judge you or overreact. (Prov. 17:17) His or her listening ear and reassuring words may be just what you need to maintain your joy.​—Prov. 12:25. w25.11 13-14 ¶13-14

How can we imitate Jehovah? By cultivating humility, we will become more approachable. Humility will prevent us from being envious, prideful, and unforgiving​—traits that push others away. But humility will help us to be kind, patient, and forgiving​—traits that draw others to us. (Col. 3:12-14) Elders must especially strive to be approachable. Of course, in order to be approachable, they need to be visible. This means that they endeavor to attend congregation meetings in person, preferring that to attending via videoconferencing unnecessarily. And as their circumstances allow, they try to work along with the brothers and sisters in the house-to-house ministry. As these ones get better acquainted with the elders, they will feel comfortable confiding in them when the need arises. w25.12 15 ¶5

Even if a Bible student has a good grasp of the Scriptures, he may need help in identifying what is hindering his progress. Secular work or family opposition may distract him from spiritual goals. So make yourself available to your student. You might invite him to join you for a cup of coffee or a walk. In such an informal setting, you may be able to help him to open up about his challenges. Encourage your student to make any necessary adjustments, not to please you, but to show his love for Jehovah. w25.06 21 ¶5

JOB, an ancient man of faith, had lost almost everything: his children, his health, and his wealth. In addition, his good reputation was destroyed. As for his “friends,” much of what they said was discouraging. Even his beloved wife became so distraught that she urged him to “curse God and die.” (Job 2:9; 15:4, 5; 19:1-3) These tragic events could have eroded Job’s trust in the true God, making him doubt that Jehovah would protect those who love and serve Him.

At times, we too experience challenging situations that can severely test our trust in Jehovah. We are living in “critical times hard to deal with.” (2 Tim. 3:1) When we face trial after trial, we may feel overwhelmed and unable to endure. Such experiences have made some wonder whether Jehovah really cares about them. w26.03 8 ¶1-2

A thorn in the flesh. Paul compared something that was causing him much distress to “a thorn in the flesh.” (2 Cor. 12:7) The apostle did not mention the cause, but the word picture he used suggests something​—whether it was a physical problem, an emotional problem, or something else—​that pained him.

His imperfections. Paul struggled with his imperfections. (Read Romans 7:18, 19.) Although he wanted to do what was right, his imperfect flesh undermined his determination to do so. He admitted that there was a constant battle between his fleshly inclinations and the desire to do what is right. Yet, Paul worked very hard to improve. (1 Cor. 9:27) How frustrated he must have been whenever his bad traits resurfaced! w26.01 9 ¶6-7

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4. At times, we experience grief, anxiety, or distress. Perhaps you are going through a distressing situation right now that makes you feel alone. Does anyone understand what you are feeling? Jehovah does. He not only feels our pain but also “comforts us in all our trials.” How? When we supplicate Jehovah in prayer, he gives us “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding.” (Phil. 4:6, 7) We also find comfort when we read in the Bible Jehovah’s words to us. The inspired expressions of love, wisdom, and hope in that treasure can lift our spirits. And Christian meetings comfort us by providing warm fellowship and Bible-based encouragement. w25.04 23-24 ¶15

When we consider what daily life must be like for our brothers in prison, we can also find other ways to make our prayers specific. For example, we can pray that the prison guards will be kind and that those in positions of authority will allow our brothers to worship freely. (1 Tim. 2:1, 2) We can pray that the local congregation will be encouraged by the example of their faithful imprisoned brother or that unbelievers will observe the prisoner’s fine conduct and listen to our message. (1 Pet. 2:12) Of course, the same principles will help us in our prayers for our brothers and sisters who are enduring other trials. By being observant, praying for others by name, and making specific requests, we can show that we “abound in love for one another.”​—1 Thess. 3:12. w25.10 28 ¶15

Satan’s claims will finally be proved false once for all time. What will Jesus do when the time comes for him to finish ruling? Will he follow the example of Satan and rebel against Jehovah? No! (Read 1 Corinthians 15:24, 28.) Jesus will hand the Kingdom back to his Father. He will submit to Jehovah’s rule. Yes, unlike Satan, Jesus is willing to give up everything because of his love for Jehovah. w25.05 25 ¶18

All genuine followers of Jesus, therefore, need to be interested in the sanctification of Jehovah’s name. (Matt. 6:9, 10) They must consider Jehovah’s name to be above all others. This involves action on their part. But how can we have a part in sanctifying Jehovah’s name, or in clearing it of the slander that Satan heaped upon it?

The importance of our role in sanctifying Jehovah’s name is highlighted in chapters 42 to 44 of the book of Isaiah. Those chapters describe a figurative court case in which the issue of godship is on trial. Jehovah challenges all those who claim to be gods to prove that they really are gods. He also calls for witnesses to come forward and prove the claims of these gods. But no one can!​—Read Isaiah 43:9; 44:7-9. w25.05 28 ¶9-10

Jehovah has made a miraculous provision that can help us to endure. He has made it possible for us to communicate with him despite our sinful condition. (Heb. 4:16) Think of it: We can pray to Jehovah at any time and about any matter. He can hear us in any language and from any location, even if we are isolated or imprisoned. (Jonah 2:1, 2; Acts 16:25, 26) If we become so anxious that we cannot find the words to express our thoughts, Jehovah is still able to understand what we want to say. (Rom. 8:26, 27) Truly, prayer is a miracle of communication! w25.08 2-3 ¶3

The brochure Return to Jehovah contains these encouraging words: “Be assured that Jehovah will be there for you as you return to him. He will help you to deal with anxiety, to resolve hurt feelings, and to find the peace of mind and heart that comes from having a clean conscience. Then you may once again feel moved to serve Jehovah along with fellow worshippers.” Remember, too, that the elders are eager to help you. They can prove to be “like a hiding place from the wind, a place of concealment from the rainstorm.” (Isa. 32:2) In appreciation for the ransom, ask yourself, ‘What steps can I take now to “set matters straight” with Jehovah?’ (Isa. 1:18; 1 Pet. 2:25) For example, can you attend a meeting at the Kingdom Hall? Can you reach out to one of the elders and ask for spiritual assistance, which might include a regular Bible study for a time? You can be sure that Jehovah will bless your prayerful efforts to show appreciation for the ransom of his Son. w26.01 25 ¶16

We can also pray for those taking the lead in Jehovah’s organization. This includes the Governing Body and their helpers, Branch Committees, responsible overseers at the branch offices, circuit overseers, congregation elders, and ministerial servants. Many of these brothers deal with their own anxieties as they expend themselves in our behalf. (2 Cor. 12:15) For example, a circuit overseer named Mark says: “One of my greatest challenges is being far away from my aging parents. Both are in poor health. Although their needs are being cared for by my sister and her husband, it pains me to be so limited in what I can do for them personally.” Whether we are aware of the anxieties that these hardworking brothers are dealing with or not, we do well to keep them in our prayers. (1 Thess. 5:12, 13) We can also pray for the wives of these brothers, as their loyal support helps their husbands to continue in their assignments. w25.10 26-27 ¶9

Remember that Jehovah does not see you the way the world does. (Read 1 Samuel 16:7.) He does not assess your worth based on your personal appearance, social status, or secular education. (Isa. 55:8, 9) So instead of measuring your value according to the world’s standards, evaluate your worth based on Jehovah’s standards. You might read Bible accounts that show that Jehovah valued those who at times doubted their worth, such as Elijah, Naomi, and Hannah. You may also want to write down experiences you’ve had that confirm that Jehovah truly loves and values you. Additionally, you can review information on the subject of self-worth found in our publications. w25.11 25-26 ¶14

As indicated at 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul mentions five areas in which a young brother can serve as an example. As a personal study project, why not reflect on each of those areas? For instance, suppose you want to be a better example “in speaking.” Think about the ways you could use your speech to build up others. If you are still living at home with your parents, could you express appreciation more often for what they are doing for you? After the meetings, could you tell someone who had a share in the program what you appreciated about his presentation? You might also try to give comments in your own words at the meetings. Your efforts to become an example in speaking will show that you are making spiritual advancement.​—1 Tim. 4:15. w25.04 30 ¶16

We are hated because we worship Jehovah. Regarding those who would persecute and even kill some of his followers, Jesus said: “They have not come to know either the Father or me.” (Read John 16:2, 3.) Who is ultimately to blame for the opposition to God’s people? Satan is. He is “the god of this system of things.” (2 Cor. 4:3, 4) He blinds people to the truth about Jehovah and influences them to oppose those who do know and love God. (John 8:42-44) How might knowing this affect our view of opposers? For one thing, realizing that they have been deceived will help us to avoid hating them in return. w26.03 26 ¶2

Paul had tendencies that at times put a damper on his desire to preach. Yet, he was determined to persevere in his ministry despite how he felt at that moment. You can have a similar resolve. Be determined to do the right thing even if you lack motivation. So pray for “the desire and the power to act.” (Phil. 2:13) Stay active in your spiritual routine. Be confident that in time your actions will affect your feelings and you will rekindle the love that is still in your heart. w26.01 23-24 ¶12

Our clear understanding of Jehovah’s mercy can help us to remain hopeful. When false religion comes to an end, our relatives may recall that we had told them about this event. (Rev. 17:16) They may even join us in pure worship after the great tribulation starts. And if our relatives are facing hard times now, we will certainly do all we can to be there for them. Perhaps they will be more receptive to Bible truths as they see that our love and kindness are genuine. w26.02 4-5 ¶12

We benefit when we fight against being distracted from our spiritual activities and routine. (Isa. 48:17) With Jehovah’s help, we will be better able to face our challenges in life. We will not be shaken by world events. And we will avoid centering our lives solely on recreation. So let us continue to be resolved to think like Jehovah, to stay busy in spiritual activities, and to keep a clear view of what is truly important. By doing so, we will not only fight distractions but also “get a firm hold on the real life.”​—1 Tim. 6:19. w26.03 19 ¶20

In the near future, Jesus will wage war against God’s enemies and destroy the wicked at Armageddon. (Rev. 16:14, 16; 19:11-16) Shortly thereafter, he will throw Satan into “the abyss,” a state of deathlike inactivity. (Rev. 20:1-3) Jesus will restore peace and perfection to mankind during his Thousand Year Reign. He will resurrect the dead. He will make the whole earth a paradise. Jehovah’s purpose will be accomplished!​—Rev. 21:1-4.

What can we expect to happen by the end of the Thousand Year Reign? Human sin and imperfection will be gone. Mankind will no longer need to ask for forgiveness of their sins on the basis of the ransom; neither will they need a mediator or a priesthood. And “the last enemy, [Adamic] death, [will have been] brought to nothing.” The graves will be empty. The dead will have been brought back to life. Everyone on earth will be perfect.​—1 Cor. 15:25, 26. w25.05 24-25 ¶15-16

What is the lesson? If you start thinking about the things you gave up in order to become a Christian, be sure you also remember why you gave them up. (Eccl. 7:10) Compare what you left behind with the blessings you have gained by coming into the truth. You have a close friendship with the Sovereign of the universe. (Prov. 3:32) You are surrounded by a loving spiritual family. (Read Mark 10:29, 30.) And you have a wonderful future before you! (Isa. 65:21-23) If you regularly reflect on the blessings that come from serving Jehovah, you will be less likely to miss what you left behind. w26.02 23 ¶10

In his Word, Jehovah assures us that “no matter what we ask according to his will, he hears us.” (1 John 5:14) Can we ask Jehovah for help to endure? Yes! Doing so is in harmony with his will. Why can we say that? When we endure trials, we provide Jehovah with a reply to his taunter, Satan the Devil. (Prov. 27:11) Besides that, the Bible says that Jehovah is eager “to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him.” (2 Chron. 16:9) So we can be sure that Jehovah has both the power and the desire to help us endure.​—Isa. 30:18; 41:10; Luke 11:13. w25.08 3 ¶4

There is no limit to how closely we can draw to Jehovah and how well we can get to know him. The Bible says that Jehovah’s ways, his wisdom, and his knowledge are “beyond tracing out.”​—Rom. 11:33.

Psalm 79:13 states: “We, your people and the flock of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever; and we will declare your praise from generation to generation.” As you keep drawing near to God, you too can feel assured of receiving eternal blessings and confidently say: “God is the rock of my heart and my portion forever.”​—Ps. 73:26. w25.04 13 ¶18-19

Actually, by not revealing the date for the end, Jehovah gives us the opportunity to show that we serve him because we love him and trust in him. We are not serving Jehovah with a deadline in mind, as if our faith in him had an expiration date. Instead of focusing primarily on when “the day of Jehovah” will come, we do well to focus on what that day will accomplish. In doing so, we continue to deepen our devotion to God and do all we can to please him.​—2 Pet. 3:11, 12. w25.06 15 ¶6

We should not be discouraged when people initially reject the good news. People can change. Consider the example of Jesus’ half brother James. He watched Jesus grow up, become the Messiah, and teach as no other human had taught. Yet, for years, James did not follow Jesus. Only after Jesus was resurrected did his brother become a disciple​—and a zealous one at that! (John 7:5; Gal. 2:9) Do not underestimate the value of reaching out to relatives who have not yet shown interest or of calling again on those who have not accepted the Kingdom message. Remember that we are living in the last days, so our preaching work is urgent. What you say to them today may affect them later, perhaps even after the great tribulation starts. w25.07 18 ¶15

In the name of the holy spirit. We accept the truth about the holy spirit. It is, not a person or part of a Trinity, but God’s active force. We recognize that holy spirit guided the prophets and the Bible writers, so we regularly read the Bible and follow its teachings. (2 Pet. 1:20, 21) And we avoid committing serious sins, for such conduct could not only block God’s spirit from reaching us but also hinder the free flow of his spirit in the congregation.​—Eph. 4:30. w26.02 12-13 ¶14

Reflect on how Jehovah has described himself. Note, for example, what Jehovah said to Moses on Mount Sinai. (Read Exodus 34:6, 7.) Of all the things that Jehovah could have said about his qualities and ways, he saw fit to represent himself as being “a God merciful and compassionate.” Would such a God withhold forgiveness from a worshipper who has truly repented of his sin? Never! That would be merciless and hard-hearted​—attitudes that Jehovah is incapable of displaying.

We can be confident that Jehovah would never misrepresent himself, for he is a truthful God. (Ps. 31:5) So we can take him at his word. If you find it hard to let go of guilt for past sins, ask yourself: ‘Do I believe that Jehovah is truly merciful and compassionate and would never withhold forgiveness from any repentant sinner? Then shouldn’t I accept that he has forgiven me?’ w25.08 15 ¶7-8

What a precious privilege we have to be Jehovah’s sheep! Jehovah sent “the fine shepherd,” Jesus, to pay the ransom for us so that we could have the opportunity for everlasting life. (John 10:11) And by means of the elders in the Christian congregation, Jehovah has fulfilled his promise: “I will give you shepherds after my own heart, and they will feed you with knowledge and insight.” (Jer. 3:15) When we are spiritually weak or sick, we should not hesitate to call the elders for their help. May we be determined to benefit fully from Jehovah’s provision of the congregation elders. w25.09 7 ¶17

Read Genesis 49:17, 18. Jacob likens Dan to a snake that takes on adversaries much bigger than itself, such as a warhorse and its rider. Dan would prove dangerous to Israel’s enemies. During their trek to the Promised Land, the tribe of Dan protected the nation by “forming the rear guard.” (Num. 10:25) That was an important assignment, even though the Danites were not carrying it out in full view of the rest of the nation.

What can we learn? Have you ever cared for an assignment that appeared to go unnoticed by others? Perhaps you helped to clean and maintain the Kingdom Hall, volunteered to work at an assembly or a convention, or cared for another task. If so, you are to be commended! Always remember that Jehovah notices and values everything you do for him. He especially appreciates it when you serve him, not because you are looking to receive praise from others, but because you want to express your sincere love for him.​—Matt. 6:1-4. w25.06 9 ¶6-7

Jehovah invites even those who have committed serious mistakes to pray to him. (Isa. 55:6, 7) So we should not let negative feelings hold us back from praying. To illustrate, an airplane pilot knows that he can communicate with air traffic controllers if he needs help. Should he hesitate to contact them because of being embarrassed that he got lost or made a mistake? Surely not! Likewise, even if we at times feel lost or have sinned, we can confidently turn to Jehovah in prayer.​—Ps. 119:25, 176. w25.10 19 ¶5

Soon, Jehovah will wipe away the tears of pain from all faces. Sickness and death will be no more. (Rev. 21:3, 4) “The lame will leap like the deer.” (Isa. 35:5, 6) The sad effects of old age and the pain of caring for a loved one who is sick will be part of “the former things [that] will not be called to mind.” (Isa. 65:17) Even now, while we await the fulfillment of our wonderful hope, Jehovah will not abandon us. If we continue to rely on him for strength, he will help us to “endure fully with patience and joy.”​—Col. 1:11. w25.11 15 ¶19

Jesus knew that love for God would motivate his disciples to apply what they had learned. He often taught things that would help his disciples to grow in their love for their heavenly Father. For example, he compared Jehovah to a man who gives good things to his children. (Matt. 7:9-11) Some of Jesus’ listeners may not have had such an affectionate father. Imagine how they must have felt when Jesus gave the illustration of a compassionate father who welcomed the return of his son who had been on a wayward course. They could see Jehovah’s compassion for his earthly children.​—Luke 15:20-24.

You too can help a Bible student to deepen his love for Jehovah by emphasizing God’s qualities in your teaching. During each study session, help him to make a connection between what he is learning and Jehovah’s love. When discussing the ransom, emphasize how it applies to him. (Rom. 5:8; 1 John 4:10) A student is likely to be moved to love Jehovah when reflecting on Jehovah’s love for him personally.​—Gal. 2:20. w25.06 21-22 ¶7-8

IN THESE difficult last days, Jehovah’s people need endurance. Some are suffering from a chronic illness. Others are coping with the loss of a loved one. Still others are facing opposition, whether from family members or from government officials. (Matt. 10:18, 36, 37) Be assured that whatever difficulty you are dealing with, Jehovah can help you to endure.​—Read 1 Peter 5:10. w25.08 2 ¶1

Many proud people are unreasonable in their dealings with others. But because Jehovah is humble, he is reasonable, or yielding​—even though he is superior to everyone in every way. Consider how he dealt with Moses’ sister, Miriam. She, along with Aaron, murmured against Moses, who was Jehovah’s representative. So Miriam was, in essence, showing disrespect for Jehovah. As a result, Jehovah was furious with Miriam and struck her with leprosy. But when Aaron pleaded in her behalf and Moses begged Jehovah to heal his sister, how did God respond? God did not proudly hold to the judgment he had brought on her. Because Jehovah is humble, he yielded by healing Miriam.​—Num. 12:1-15. w25.12 15-16 ¶6

Maintain a good spiritual routine. When we develop a good spiritual routine, we are better able to focus on the positive. We can compare such a routine to maintaining healthy habits that contribute to our overall physical well-being. When we eat well, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep, we usually feel better. Similarly, we all have experienced how good we feel when we read God’s Word regularly; prepare for, attend, and participate in our meetings; and engage in the ministry. Such upbuilding activities help us deal with our negative thoughts.​—Rom. 12:11, 12. w26.01 10 ¶12

Read Matthew 24:36. We do not know when the end of this system of things will come. Even Jesus, while on earth, did not know the “day and hour.” He later told the apostles that Jehovah, who is the Great Timekeeper, keeps the timing of certain events “in his own jurisdiction,” or authority. (Acts 1:6, 7) Jehovah has scheduled the time for the end of this system, but we are not in a position to figure out precisely when that will be.

In view of what Jesus said, we do not know how long we will have to wait until the end comes. As a result, we might become impatient or discouraged, especially if we have already been waiting for some time for Jehovah’s day. Or we might find it hard to endure ridicule from family members or others. (2 Pet. 3:3, 4) It is possible to feel that if we knew the exact day that the end would come, we would be more patient and we would be able to endure ridicule more easily. w25.06 15 ¶4-5

One day, “the sons of the true God” gathered before Jehovah in heaven. The account adds: “Satan also entered among them.” (Job 1:6) This is the earliest reference in the Bible to the descriptive title of Jehovah’s chief opposer, “Satan,” or “the Resister.” By this time, Satan was no longer a faithful son of God. He had become an enemy of Jehovah and of the heavenly and the earthly parts of His family. Jehovah indicated that Satan was no longer part of His heavenly family when He spoke the words recorded at Genesis 3:15. Thus Satan is not part of “the woman”​—Jehovah’s family of spirit creatures—​who would produce the “offspring.” w26.03 9 ¶4

We have the privilege of imitating our God by comforting others. How can we do so? We can listen to them patiently, speak with them consolingly, and help them in practical ways. (Prov. 3:27) We endeavor to comfort all who suffer, including those not yet serving God. When our neighbors experience grief, illness, or anxiety, we visit them, listen to them, and share with them encouraging passages from the Bible. When we imitate Jehovah, “the God of all comfort,” we may not only help fellow believers to endure trials but also soften the hearts of unbelievers toward pure worship.​—Matt. 5:16. w25.04 25 ¶18

We know that we will face injustice as long as Satan remains “the ruler of this world.” But we are neither helpless nor hopeless as we await his being “cast out.” (John 12:31) Through the Scriptures, Jehovah reveals not only why there is so much injustice but also how he feels about the distress that it causes us. (Ps. 34:17-19) By means of his Son, Jehovah teaches us how we should respond to present injustice and how his Kingdom will soon eliminate injustice once and for all. (2 Pet. 3:13) May we continue to preach the good news of that Kingdom with zeal, eagerly looking forward to the time when the earth will be filled with “justice and righteousness.”​—Isa. 9:7. w25.09 13 ¶17

Do not feel pressured to respond to all criticism. When Jesus was falsely accused of eating and drinking too much, he did not become defensive. Instead, he encouraged people to look at the facts. (Matt. 11:19) He also showed by his example that he had a balanced view of life. (Compare John 2:2, 6-10.) Likewise, do not feel that you have to respond to every criticism. Rather, show your relatives through your actions that you are balanced and happy and let them draw their own conclusions. They may be moved to reject false information that they have heard about us. w26.02 4 ¶10

In his prayer, Jesus prayed for his disciples, saying: “Watch over them on account of your own name, which you have given me.” (Read John 17:11, 12.) Does this mean that Jesus would now be known as Jehovah? No. Notice that in his prayer Jesus refers to the name Jehovah as “your own name.” So Jehovah’s name did not become Jesus’ personal name. What, then, did Jesus mean when he said that God’s name had been given to him? First of all, Jesus was Jehovah’s representative and Spokesman. He came in his Father’s name and performed powerful works in that name. (John 5:43; 10:25) Additionally, the name Jesus means “Jehovah Is Salvation.” Yes, the divine name was closely associated with Jesus’ name. w25.05 21 ¶6

Read Isaiah 43:10-12. Jehovah says regarding his people: “You are my witnesses, . . . and I am God.” Jehovah is asking them to answer this question: “Is there any God but me?” (Isa. 44:8) We, therefore, have the privilege of answering that question. By our words and actions, we testify that Jehovah is the only true God. His name is above all other names. We prove by our life course that we truly love Jehovah and that we are loyal to him​—no matter what pressure Satan brings upon us. In this way, we have an opportunity to help sanctify His name. w25.05 28-29 ¶11

How can we imitate the angels’ love for people? When we hear an announcement that someone has been reinstated, we can rejoice, as the angels do. We can go out of our way to welcome the brother back and confirm our love for him. (Luke 15:4-7; 2 Cor. 2:6-8) We can also imitate the angels by doing all that we can in the preaching work. (Eccl. 11:6) And just as the angels support us as we share the good news, we can look for ways to support our brothers and sisters in their ministry. For example, could we make plans to work with a less experienced publisher? Could we support older or infirm brothers and sisters so that they can have a share in the ministry? w25.05 4 ¶9

Be observant. In addition to praying for groups of brothers and sisters, it is proper to pray for individuals by name. Is someone in your congregation battling a chronic illness? Is a young one downcast, perhaps because of pressures he faces at school? Is a single parent struggling to raise a child “in the discipline and admonition of Jehovah”? (Eph. 6:4) By being observant, you will deepen your fellow feeling for others, which will strengthen your desire to pray for them.​—Rom. 12:15. w25.10 28 ¶12

Recognize that your faithfulness makes you valuable in Jehovah’s eyes. At one point, possibly when he was in his late 90’s, the prophet Daniel felt “extremely weary” and disheartened. (Dan. 9:20, 21) How did Jehovah encourage him? God sent the angel Gabriel to remind Daniel that he was “someone very precious” and that his prayers had been heard. (Read Daniel 9:23.) What made Daniel so precious to God? Among many other qualities, it was his love of righteousness and his faithfulness. (Ezek. 14:14) Jehovah preserved that account in his Word for our comfort. (Rom. 15:4) Jehovah also listens to your prayers and values you for your love of what is right and your faithful service to him.​—Mic. 6:8, ftns.; Heb. 6:10. w25.11 26 ¶15

Do you remember how you felt the first time you attended a meeting and saw the love among Jehovah’s people? Were you convinced that you had found the truth? (John 13:35; Col. 3:12) That is how Blanca felt. However, she had an unexpected experience after she got baptized. She says: “A sister treated me harshly. I also noticed that she would speak negatively about others. I wasn’t expecting this; I had learned that Jehovah’s Witnesses strive to be peaceful and loving.” Of course, your brothers and sisters work hard at refining their Christian qualities, but Jehovah’s people are not perfect. (Eph. 4:23, 24; 1 John 1:8) So at some point, one of them is likely to say or do something that hurts you. (Jas. 3:8) Sadly, such challenges have caused some to stop serving Jehovah. w26.02 20-21 ¶3

We are hated because we respect Jesus. Jesus said that true Christians would be hated by all people “on account of [his] name.” (Read Mark 13:13.) What does Jesus’ “name” stand for? It stands for his reputation and his authority as the King of God’s Kingdom. We are hated by people who have put their trust in earthly leaders, not in the one whom Jehovah has chosen to rule the universe, Jesus Christ. Jesus has been ruling as King of the Kingdom since 1914. Soon, he will remove all rival rulerships that have rejected his authority. w26.03 28 ¶6

From time to time, we do well to examine ourselves in harmony with the direction found at 2 Corinthians 13:5: “Keep testing whether you are in the faith; keep proving what you yourselves are.” Periodically, we can ask ourselves such questions as: ‘Am I putting Kingdom interests first in my life?’ (Matt. 6:33) ‘Does my choice of entertainment show that I hate what is bad?’ (Ps. 97:10) ‘Do I promote peace and unity among fellow believers?’ (Eph. 4:2, 3) The Memorial​—the occasion when we especially reflect on Jehovah’s provision of the ransom—​gives us an opportunity to examine ourselves and make sure that we are living for Christ and not for ourselves. w26.01 24 ¶13

Jesus repeatedly told his followers that they would face opposition from others, even from relatives. (Matt. 5:11; 10:22, 36) As Jesus’ ministry drew to a close, he warned his disciples that they could face death. (Matt. 24:9; John 15:20; 16:2) He urged them to be cautious in their ministry. He advised them not to confront those who oppose them and to be discreet so that they could continue to preach.

We can help a student to prepare for opposition by explaining what he might expect to hear from coworkers, friends, and relatives. (Read 2 Timothy 3:12.) Some coworkers may make fun of the student’s new way of life. Others, even close relatives, may criticize his Bible-based beliefs. The sooner we prepare our students to deal with opposition, the better equipped they will be when it comes. w25.06 23 ¶13-14

Read Philippians 4:19. In addition to guiding us spiritually, Jehovah blesses our efforts to obtain the food, clothing, and shelter that we need. (Matt. 6:33; 2 Thess. 3:12) Though it is only natural to be concerned about our physical needs, Jehovah encourages us not to be overly anxious about such matters. (See study note on Matthew 6:25.) Why? Because our Father will never abandon his faithful worshippers in their time of need. (Matt. 6:8; Heb. 13:5) We can take him at his word when he says that he will provide for us. w25.04 21 ¶7

What good reasons we have to cultivate and show respect for others! We have seen that when we show respect for our family, we honor our family Head, Jehovah. Likewise, when we show respect for our spiritual brothers and sisters, we honor our heavenly Father. And when we show respect for those outside the congregation, we create the best possible circumstances for them to glorify, or honor, our great God. Even if we never receive respect in return from some humans, it will be worthwhile to cultivate and show respect for them. Why? Because Jehovah will bless us. He promises: “Those honoring me I will honor.”​—1 Sam. 2:30. w25.09 19 ¶18

We know that our endurance amid hatred brings God’s approval. (Read 1 Peter 4:14.) The apostle Peter said that those who endure mistreatment for serving God have reason to be happy. How so? Such mistreatment is proof that God’s spirit “is resting upon [us].” Peter knew what it felt like to have God’s approval and to endure persecution. Shortly after Pentecost 33 C.E., the Jewish temple police were dispatched to arrest Peter and other apostles for preaching. But Peter boldly defended his faith. (Acts 5:24-29) Even after being flogged, he and his fellow apostles did not stop preaching. Rather, they rejoiced because they had been “counted worthy to be dishonored in behalf of [Jesus’] name.” We too can rejoice when enduring trials.​—Acts 5:40-42. w26.03 31 ¶16