Jehovah’s Witnesses spent 1,945,487,604 hours in the ministry during the 2014 service year​—clear evidence that we are resolved to stay busy in Jehovah’s service! (Ps. 110:3; 1 Cor. 15:58) Since “the time left is reduced,” is it possible to use our precious hours in the ministry to contact even more people?​—1 Cor. 7:29.

Making the best use of our time in the ministry requires flexibility. For instance, if you regularly spend an hour or more in a particular aspect of the ministry without speaking to anyone, could you make adjustments in order to find and talk to more people? Circumstances vary from place to place. However, the following suggestions may help you to make better use of your time so that you can avoid “striking the air.”​—1 Cor. 9:26.

• House-to-House Witnessing: For many decades, publishers have customarily started their day in the ministry by preaching from house to house. However, since many individuals work during the day, why not try preaching from house to house in the late afternoon or early evening, when more people are at home and relaxed? During the day, street or business witnessing may yield better results.

• Public Witnessing: Tables and mobile displays should be set up in high-traffic areas within the congregation’s territory boundary. (See the July 2013 Our Kingdom Ministry, p. 5.) If pedestrian traffic diminishes in an area designated for public witnessing, the Congregation Service Committee may decide that the mobile display or table should be relocated to an area with higher pedestrian traffic.

• Return Visits and Bible Studies: Is it possible to schedule your return visits and Bible studies during times when other features of the ministry are less productive? For instance, if the house-to-house ministry is productive on Saturday mornings, could you have your Bible study in the afternoon or in the evening? When making return visits, could publishers split into smaller car groups so as to accomplish more in the ministry?

While it is true that we can count our time whenever we engage in the ministry, our joy increases when we are productive. If you find that participating in one feature of the ministry is not effective at a specific time, try another feature. Pray to Jehovah, “the Master of the harvest,” for his direction so that you can make the best use of your time in the ministry!​—Matt. 9:38.

Witnessing with a mobile cart or a table display is proving to be very effective in drawing honesthearted ones to the truth. (John 6:44) Therefore, elders have been encouraged to organize public witnessing in areas of the congregation’s territory where there is high pedestrian traffic. Since mobile displays are not stationary, generally there is no need to ask permission from the authorities. Who are qualified to participate? Publishers who demonstrate good judgment, present themselves in a dignified way, and have good conversation skills. The following are some dos and don’ts that will help publishers have more success.

1. What kind of love is loyal love, and in what areas of life is it especially needed? (Ruth 1:16, 17) [Mar. 2, w12 7/1 p. 26 par. 6]

2. How did Ruth acquire the reputation of being “an excellent woman”? (Ruth 3:11) [Mar. 2, w12 10/1 p. 23 par. 1]

3. When we are confronted with problems, in what way can we benefit from Hannah’s example? (1 Sam. 1:16-18) [Mar. 9, w07 3/15 p. 16 pars. 4-5]

4. When Samuel was a boy “growing up before Jehovah,” what was it that protected him from the bad example of Eli’s sons? (1 Sam. 2:21) [Mar. 9, w10 10/1 p. 16 pars. 2-3]

5. In what way can we benefit from Saul’s refusal to act rashly when “worthless men” rejected his kingship? (1 Sam. 10:22, 27) [Mar. 23, w05 3/15 p. 23 par. 1]

6. What vital lesson do we learn from Saul’s mistaken view that a sacrifice could be substituted for obedience to Jehovah? (1 Sam. 15:22, 23) [Mar. 30, w07 6/15 p. 26 pars. 3-4]

7. Why is it reassuring to know that Jehovah “sees into the heart” of a person? (1 Sam. 16:7) [Apr. 6, w10 3/1 p. 23 par. 7]

8. According to Proverbs 1:4, what do we possess that Jehovah expects us to use when facing difficult situations? (1 Sam. 21:12, 13) [Apr. 13, w05 3/15 p. 24 par. 4]

9. Why can it be said that Abigail was not rebelling against her husband’s headship when she gave provisions to David and his men? (1 Sam. 25:10, 11, 18, 19) [Apr. 20, w09 7/1 p. 20 par. 3]

10. Abigail apologized for something she did not do. How can we benefit from her example? (1 Sam. 25:24) [Apr. 20, w02 11/1 p. 5 pars. 1, 4]

1. When will the invitation campaign for the convention begin?

¹ If you were planning a special meal for family or friends, one that required much effort and expense to prepare, you would likely be enthusiastic when extending invitations. Similarly, much work has gone into preparing the spiritual feast that will be presented at our upcoming convention. Beginning three weeks before the start of our convention, Jehovah is allowing us the privilege of inviting others to attend. What will help us to extend the invitations with enthusiasm?

2. What will move us to have a full share in the campaign?

² We will be moved to have a full share in the campaign if we reflect appreciatively on how much we personally benefit from the refreshing instruction that Jehovah provides at our conventions. (Isa. 65:13, 14) We should remember, too, that our annual campaign yields results. (See the box “It Gets Results.”) Some people we invite will attend the convention with us, while others will not. Regardless of how many respond, however, our diligent efforts during the campaign bring praise to Jehovah and reflect his generosity.​—Ps. 145:3, 7; Rev. 22:17.

3. How will the invitations be distributed?

³ Each body of elders should determine how they can give the invitations wide distribution, including whether to leave them at not-at-homes or offer them in public witnessing within their territory. On weekends the magazines should be offered along with the invitation when appropriate. After the campaign concludes, how happy we will be to know that we participated enthusiastically and that as many people as possible joined us at the spiritual banquet that Jehovah provided!

• Program Times: The doors to the convention site will open at 8:00 a.m. The introductory music will begin at 9:20 a.m. all three days. At that time, all of us should go to our seats so that the program can begin in a dignified manner. The program will conclude at about 5:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at about 4:00 p.m. on Sunday.

• ‘Praise Jehovah With Song’: God’s people in ancient times praised Jehovah in song, and music continues to be an important part of true worship today. (Ps. 28:7) Each session of our regional convention begins with a musical interlude. This is not merely background music but is prepared so that we may learn about and worship Jehovah. Thus, when the chairman announces that the musical interlude is about to begin, that is the time to be seated and listen with appreciation to the music, rather than to converse. Our doing so shows that we value the efforts of the members of the Watchtower orchestra. Twice a year these brothers and sisters travel at their own expense to Patterson, New York, in order to produce beautiful music for our enjoyment. After listening intently to the musical interlude, everyone should join in praising Jehovah by singing our Kingdom songs.

• Parking: At all convention sites where we control the parking, the spaces will be available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking is usually limited, so carpooling should be done to the extent possible. Only those with a license plate or placard for the disabled will be allowed to park in the area reserved for such ones.

• Seat Saving: When the doors to the facility are opened each morning, please do not rush to the seating area, as if competing with fellow attenders. Please be considerate of others, even sacrificing our preferences for the sake of our brothers. A self-sacrificing spirit identifies us as true Christians and moves onlookers to praise God. (John 13:34, 35; 1 Cor. 13:5; 1 Pet. 2:12) Seats may be saved only for those traveling with you in the same vehicle, living with you in the same home, or currently studying the Bible with you. Please do not store things on seats that you are not saving. Your cooperation in this regard will allow others to see that those seats are available. Special seating has been provided for the elderly and the infirm. Since this seating is limited, only one or two persons who are directly assisting the elderly or infirm individual may sit with him or her.

• Modest Dress: Our dress during the convention should be appropriate and modest, not reflecting the extreme styles common in the world. (1 Tim. 2:9) Even when checking in and out of the hotel and during times of leisure before and after the sessions, we want to avoid an overly casual or slovenly appearance. Thus we will be proud to wear our convention badge and not be embarrassed to give a witness when we have an opportunity. Our appearance and fine conduct while attending the upcoming conventions will not only attract honesthearted people to the Bible’s lifesaving message but it will also bring joy to Jehovah.​—Zeph. 3:17.

• Good Manners With Electronic Devices: We show good manners during the program by adjusting our cell phones or other electronic devices to a setting that will not disturb others. If using a camera, video recorder, electronic tablet, or other such device, we want to be considerate by not disturbing others or blocking their view. We also display good manners by not texting or e-mailing needlessly during the program.

• Noon Meal: Please bring a lunch rather than leave the convention site to obtain a meal during the noon break. A small cooler that can be placed under a seat may be used. Large family-size picnic coolers and glass containers are not permitted in the convention facility.

• Donations: We can show our appreciation for the convention arrangements by making voluntary contributions to the worldwide work at the convention. Any checks should be made payable to “Christian Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.” Donations can also be made by means of a debit or credit card.

• Medication: If you require prescription medication, please be sure to bring an adequate supply with you, since none will be available at the convention. Diabetic syringes and needles must be disposed of properly as hazardous waste and not in trash receptacles at the convention facility or hotel.

• Safety Precautions: Please be especially mindful of preventing injuries that can be caused by slipping and tripping. Each year injuries occur that are related to footwear, especially high-heeled shoes. It is best to choose modest, well-fitting shoes that will allow one to walk safely on ramps, stairs, gratings, and so forth.

• Hearing Impaired: The program will be broadcast in the auditorium on an FM radio frequency. To hear the program, you will need to bring a small battery-operated FM receiver with earphones.

• Baby Strollers and Lawn Chairs: Baby strollers and lawn chairs should not be brought to the convention site. However, child-safety seats are acceptable if they can be secured in a seat next to the parents.

• Fragrances: Most conventions take place in enclosed areas with mechanical ventilation. Therefore, it would be loving on our part to limit the use of strong fragrances, colognes, and perfumes that may cause reactions in people with respiratory or related problems.​—1 Cor. 10:24.

• Please Follow Up (S-43) Forms: A Please Follow Up form should be used to provide information regarding any interest found through informal witnessing during the convention. Completed forms may be submitted to the Book Room or given to your congregation secretary on your return home.

• Restaurants: Honor Jehovah’s name by your fine conduct at restaurants. Dress in a way that befits a Christian minister. Leave a tip if this is customary.

• Hotels:

  1. Please do not reserve more rooms than you will actually use, and do not have more people stay in your room than what is allowed.

  2. Do not cancel your reservation except for an emergency situation, and notify the hotel as soon as it occurs so that others needing accommodations can use the room. (Matt. 5:37) If you do have to cancel, be sure to get a cancellation number. If you cancel a room less than 48 hours ahead of time, your deposit will not be refunded.

  3. Please note that if you use a debit or credit card when registering at a hotel, it is standard practice for the hotel to place a hold on funds in your account to cover your total room cost, plus any possible damages or incidentals during your stay. You will not be able to use any of those funds until your account is settled within a few days after you depart.

  4. Take a luggage cart only when you are ready to use it, and return it immediately so that others may use it.

  5. If it is the custom in your country, tip hotel workers when they carry your luggage and leave a tip for the housekeeper.

  6. Cook only in rooms where cooking is permitted.

  7. Do not abuse any complimentary breakfast, coffee, or ice provisions that are made available for guests to consume while they are at the hotel.

  8. At all times, display the fruitage of the spirit when dealing with the hotel staff. They are caring for a large number of guests and appreciate our kindness, patience, and reasonableness.

  9. Parents should supervise their children at all times around the hotel, including the elevators, swimming pool, lobby area, exercise room, and so forth.

  10. The room rate shown on the Recommended Lodging List is the full price per day, excluding tax. If you are overcharged, refuse these charges and inform the Rooming Department at the convention as soon as possible.

  11. If a problem arises with your hotel room, inform the Rooming Department while at the convention so that they can assist you.

• Volunteer Service: Any who wish to volunteer should report to the Volunteer Service Department at the convention. Children under 16 years of age can also make a fine contribution by working under the direction of a parent, guardian, or other adult approved by a parent or guardian.

When a person allows us time to share the good news with him, we make good use of the opportunity and unleash the power of God’s Word by reading scriptures directly from the Bible. This was emphasized at last year’s special assembly day. The circuit overseer gave a talk entitled “Unleash the Power of God’s Word in Your Ministry.” Do you remember the main points?

• Why is Jehovah’s word more powerful than ours?​—2 Tim. 3:16, 17.

• How does the Bible stir emotions, shape thinking, refine motives, and drive behavior?​—See The Watchtower, June 15, 2012, p. 27, par. 7.

• When we read a scripture to someone in the ministry, how can we draw attention to God’s Word in a way that engenders respect for it?​—See the Ministry School book, p. 148, pars. 3-4 and the March 2013 Our Kingdom Ministry, p. 6, par. 8.

• Why is it important that we explain and reason on the scriptures that we read, and how can we do so?​—Acts 17:2, 3; see the Ministry School book, p. 154, par. 4 to p. 156, par. 5.

◼ Literature offer for April: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. May and June: What Does the Bible Really Teach? or Would You Like to Know the Truth? July: Good News From God!, Listen to God, or Listen to God and Live Forever.

◼ The meeting schedule for the week preceding your regional convention should be adjusted in order to review counsel and reminders from the insert in this issue of Our Kingdom Ministry and the letter to all congregations dated August 3, 2013, regarding safety precautions when attending spiritual programs. A month or two following your convention, a local needs part may be used to review specific convention points that the publishers have found to be helpful in the ministry.

◼ Since May has five full weekends, it would be an excellent month to auxiliary pioneer.

The Watchtower May 1

“If you could end one problem in the world, what would it be? [Allow for response.] According to the Bible, God will soon bring an end to that problem and many more. [Choose a scripture to read that applies, such as Daniel 2:44; Proverbs 2:21, 22; Matthew 7:21-23; or 2 Peter 3:7.] This issue of The Watchtower discusses when and how God is going to make such welcome changes to the earth.”

Awake! May

“Do you think we will ever live in a world where people will have comfortable housing and not suffer from poverty? [Allow for response.] Please note the promise God has made to mankind concerning this. [Read Isaiah 65:21, 22.] This issue of Awake! discusses how God will fulfill his promises to mankind and how we can be a part of it.”

Some exciting features of the United States report for October 2014 include the following: A total of 785,888 Bible studies were conducted, an increase of 5,894 compared with the same month last year. It was also thrilling to see 2,911 baptized, an average of about 728 each week. If we make ourselves available, Jehovah can use us to help make disciples before the end comes.​—Matt. 28:19, 20.