The Watchtower — June 1, 1982

What Has Happened to Our Young Folk?

They have been called the “lost generation,” the “dispossessed generation,” the “possessive generation,” the “postponing generation” and the “dead-end kids.” Who are they? Today’s teenagers. What are they doing to deserve such names, and why?

IT IS not unusual for young folk to act in a way that their elders do not understand. Down through history that has often been so. But today’s youth seem different from the youth of the past. Adults complain that idealism, high principles, optimism and hope​—qualities usually associated with young people—​have died in many of the teenagers. They seem to have lost faith in the future.

Yet is this surprising? How many adults have faith in the future? Who could be confident, in view of the uncertainties caused by inflation, the nuclear arms race, the corrosive spread of pollution, the increasing visibility of fanaticism in world politics and the explosive growth of world hunger, crime and general amorality? Perhaps trust in this system of things has died in most of us, so can we blame the young folk?

Sir Mark Oliphant, a nuclear physicist, observed: “The young are not fools. They sense the evil in the air even though they do not understand it. They resent their uncertain economic future and the problems which the present generation is bequeathing them. They feel that their education is not related to their needs, for it guarantees them nothing, neither a job nor a satisfying culture.” Then, betraying his own lack of faith in the future, he warned: “It is becoming clear that unless human values replace those of the market place, civilisation, as we know it, could collapse under the weight of the very knowledge which has created it.”

Yes, if today’s teenagers have to live with the future that adults are creating for them, they are not in an enviable situation. How are they reacting?

Young People React

Some react in extreme ways, dropping out of the system. They get involved in eccentric religious sects, or become hippies. Or they retreat into drug abuse and alcoholism. Recent destructive riots by youths in Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and England gave further evidence of their dissatisfaction. Most tragic are those who commit suicide to escape the pressures of the present or the uncertainty of the future. In the United States some reports make suicide the second most widespread cause of death among teenagers.

Others develop a “get it now” philosophy. “Youths in our school,” said a 15-year-old in Australia, “can’t see the system going more than another 10 years . . . Whatever you want to do in life, you’d better do quickly.” This leads some to postpone commitments, refuse to have children or even to get married and thus avoid being “trapped” economically and “losing their freedom.” They demand time for ‘personal growth,’ more leisure, and shun any life-style that would involve setting long-term goals and achieving them.

Then there is the approach of the students who were interviewed at Oxford University in England. They confessed to having no strong idealism. They see corruption in all systems​—capitalist, Communist and socialist. Having no alternative, they cynically decide to make the most of the system in which they live. ‘Since you can’t change the world, you might as well use it,’ is their attitude.

“In 1950,” says columnist Graham Turner, “when I went up to Oxford, there was plenty of Belief . . . now . . . Oxford is a graveyard of shattered dreams and fallen gods. Where, only five years ago, anything seemed possible, now even the optimists anticipate decline.”

Can Anything Be Done?

Can you understand why so many young folk are acting like a “lost generation”? If you are a parent with teenage children, do you know how to help them in these difficult times? Perhaps you are a teenager yourself. If so, have you found a way to live in a crumbling system of things without giving way to cynicism and disillusionment? Is there any place left for idealism and hope? The next article may help you to answer these questions.

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Common Attitudes and Values Today

Columnist William Shannon wrote about the attitudes and values that the world encourages young people to hold, and the consequences:

“The New Sophistication involved introducing children at ever younger ages to marijuana, hard drugs, alcohol and sexual experience. . . . Girls of 13 and 14 who refuse to engage in sexual intercourse are accused of being ‘frigid.’ Boys of the same age who refuse to try marijuana or alcohol are ridiculed as cowards. . . .

“Its evil effects can be seen today in the grim statistics on suicide, now the second leading cause of death among persons aged 13 to 24 and occurring at a rate twice what it was a decade ago. It can be seen, too, in the skyrocketing rates of venereal disease, drug addiction, and alcoholism among the young.”​—The Detroit Free Press.

A Future for Today’s Youth

GEORGE, after working with an insurance company for some time, had to leave for personal reasons. He was 20 years old at the time, which means he was about the same age as the “lost generation.” Yet when he left, a 40-year-old woman he had worked with wrote him the following letter:

“I would like to take this opportunity to wish you good luck, good health, happiness and success for your future. It has been a pleasure to know you and to work with you. You are a fine young man, and a credit to your family. In this day and age when the world is so topsy-turvy, and the youth of today seem to be so lost, it is like a breath of fresh air to meet a polite and respectful person like yourself. May God bless you always.”

Evidently George is different from many of today’s youths. He does not “seem to be so lost.” Why not? In a letter, he explained: “My parents, with the aid of the Bible, have steered me through life to become what I am now.”

Yes, George’s parents saw the need to “steer” him through the pitfalls of growing up. But why were they successful when so many other parents have failed? Because, as George said, they relied on “the aid of the Bible.” True, it is not fashionable to go to the Bible for guidance today. Yet here is a case where applying Bible counsel worked.

If you are a parent, would you like to know some of the things that George’s parents taught him as he grew up, that had such a good effect on him in his young manhood? Or if you are a teenager, why not consider some of these things yourself. They helped George to avoid the aimlessness and discontent that are common in the world today. They can help you in the same way.

The Best Start

For a start, George’s parents obviously recognized that bringing him up was their responsibility, not someone else’s. They knew that the following words in the Bible are addressed to no one else but parents: “Train up a boy according to the way for him; even when he grows old he will not turn aside from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) And, of course, George was willing to accept the training his parents endeavored to provide.

The Bible likens young children to “arrows in the hand of a mighty man.” (Psalm 127:4) If an arrow is to be useful and effective in time of need, it must be skillfully prepared. To keep an arrow on target, feathers are placed at the opposite end from the point, and at a slight angle, so that the arrow will spin while in flight. Otherwise it will easily be deflected from flying straight to the target.

Similarly, unless young people are given a strong sense of direction, they will be easily deflected from a right course. This is seen in a survey of nearly 5,000 youths between the ages of 10 and 18 in 160 schools throughout England. Of the 10-year-olds, 71 percent thought that everyone should pray to God, while only 34 percent of the 18-year-olds did.

Why the difference between the younger and the older children? Evidently, as they grew up, the teenagers had been affected by the cynicism and skepticism of the world around them. Or perhaps they had asked questions that no one had been able to answer.

Something to Live For

Why had George not been adversely affected by that skepticism? He says that he learned from his parents the “wonderful ways and loving attributes” of Jehovah God. Hence, he felt a relationship with God, a sense of knowing him and being known by him. This gave George a sense of direction, a goal in life. And it helped him to maintain high moral standards.

But how does it help to have high moral standards and goals when the future is so uncertain and this whole system of things seems to be crumbling?

The deterioration of this system of things is no surprise to serious students of the Bible. They know that the Bible warns that in our days men would become “lovers of themselves, lovers of money, self-assuming, haughty, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, having no natural affection . . . ,” and so forth. And, of course, these are the very things that have made the world so unstable.​—2 Timothy 3:1-5.

However, the Bible assures us that God has noted man’s wrong conduct and will not let it continue indefinitely. Rather, he will “bring to ruin those ruining the earth.” (Revelation 11:18) But that will not be the end of everything. The Bible also promises a “new heavens and a new earth that we are awaiting according to his promise, and in these righteousness is to dwell.”​—2 Peter 3:13.

The ones governing in this new system will not be devious politicians or ruthless industrialists. Rather, we are promised: “Evildoers themselves will be cut off, but those hoping in Jehovah are the ones that will possess the earth. . . . The meek ones themselves will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.”​—Psalm 37:9, 11.

Perhaps, on reading this, some might say: ‘It can never happen!’ Yet George believes it can. So do thousand like him. They are not credulous or gullible. No, like modern youths everywhere, they wanted proof before they believed things. And when they considered the proof that these promises are reliable, it seemed good enough for them.

We recommend that you do not reject these promises without checking into them for yourself. After all, what other hope is there for the future?

A Successful Life Now

Perhaps you can see why young people like George are so different from many others of today’s youth. They are normal young people, in the sense that they have to face the same pressures and difficulties that all other young people have to face as they grow up. But they have set before them a good future. They have a sense of direction, and, hence, they are not “lost.” In addition, because they believe in the Bible they have access to a remarkable source of guidance that helps them to avoid pitfalls and make their lives successful now.

For example, it often happens that young people, disgusted with this world, try to be different. Yet, when they do this, do they have anything better to offer? Is it not true that many young rebels are more immoral, more unbalanced, more violent or more selfish than the system they condemn?

True, the Bible encourages us to be different. It says: “Quit being fashioned after this system of things.” But then it shows us how we can do this successfully. “Be transformed by making your mind over, that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) Hence, a real Christian becomes different by trying to maintain higher standards than is usual in this world. He tries to live life as God says it should be lived, and in this way he is not corrupted by the world.

Again, Jesus said: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” (Acts 20:35) This is not the common attitude. Today people feel they should “look after number one.” But has that attitude brought happiness? Of course not. Hence, a Christian who follows the Bible’s counsel and acts unselfishly is showing the right way to act. Have you not noticed how ‘generosity begets generosity’? A generous person creates an atmosphere around himself that is pleasant to live in. He is also happy because he is cultivating qualities that God originally put in man.​—Luke 6:38.

The Bible also counsels us to work hard, not to be lazy or to rely on others to feed us. (Ephesians 4:28; 2 Thessalonians 3:12) This is good for us. We were made to work, and there is satisfaction and joy in accomplishing things. (Ecclesiastes 2:24) Those who avoid work deteriorate morally and physically.

Similarly, we are warned not to make money our god. We have to make a living, but to make the gaining of money our first goal in life can have sad results. The Bible says: “Those who are determined to be rich fall into temptation and a snare and many senseless and hurtful desires, which plunge men into destruction and ruin. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things.” (1 Timothy 6:9, 10) Probably you have read of people who worked very hard in order to get very rich. Were they happy in doing so? Often, they sacrificed health, happiness, family and friends in pursuit of their goal.

No, God gives us more valuable things to work for. Wise people follow the counsel: “To work at good, to be rich in fine works, to be liberal, ready to share, safely treasuring up for themselves a fine foundation for the future, in order that they may get a firm hold on the real life.”​—1 Timothy 6:18, 19.

Does this make sense to you? Surely, the unprincipled way that things are done in this world does not make sense. But millions today are finding that a way of life based on serving God and our fellowman, and also based on a confident expectation of enjoying the good future God has set before us, is both successful and reasonable. It works.

At this point, if you are a parent, you may be feeling: ‘I am not qualified to give my children such a strong confidence in the future, and such a powerful set of principles to live with. I just do not know enough.’ Or teenagers may be wondering: ‘Where could I get that kind of information?’ Well, the basic information is in the Bible. But George’s parents were helped to get at that information by Jehovah’s Witnesses. These students of the Bible are willing to help all​—young and old—​to get the same knowledge and to see the practicalness of it for themselves.

Why not accept their help? Life does not have to be frustrating and without purpose. If you are young​—or even not so young—​why not follow the example of the thousands, who, like George, have given their lives a sense of direction. Enjoy a satisfying life now, and have confidence in a future that will work.

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Do not reject these promises before looking into them. After all, what other hope is there for the future?

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Unless young people have a strong sense of direction, they will be easily deflected from a right course

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Unfortunately, many young rebels today are more violent or more selfish than the system of things they condemn

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When they considered the proof that these promises are reliable, it seemed good enough for them

An Educated Tongue​—“To Encourage the Weary”

“I WILL give you shepherds in agreement with my heart, and they will certainly feed you with knowledge and insight,” promised Jehovah God. Is it not refreshing to be cared for by spiritual shepherds who possess both knowledge and insight?​—Jeremiah 3:15.

Insight involves more than surface treatment. It requires looking beneath the surface. At Isaiah 44:18, insight is connected with the heart as distinct from the eye. This heartfelt insight is especially needed as shepherds deal with “depressed souls.” Isaiah stated what else is needed: “The Lord GOD gives Me the speech of the learned, so that I know how to talk to encourage the weary.”​—Isaiah 50:4, Beck’s translation.

One must be taught, educated by Jehovah, so as to know “how to talk to encourage the weary.” By becoming well acquainted with the Bible, using it and displaying heartfelt insight, elders can successfully help many depressed persons. Most elders appreciate helpful suggestions about their shepherding. They may realize, perhaps by a regretful experience, that, though well meaning, some efforts can prove disappointing. What follows deals with how to help persons who have become depressed. Obviously, elders would deal somewhat differently with someone who was “unruly” or a ‘profitless talker’ in the congregation.​—1 Thessalonians 5:14; Titus 1:10-13.

Often, a contrast in examples can help one to see proper and improper methods.

“Troublesome Comforters”

When Job was in a depressed state, three of his companions heard of his plight and came to “sympathize with him and comfort him.” (Job 2:11) Because of having the wrong viewpoint of matters, they were poorly equipped. They came with a preset theory in mind​—if a person is suffering it is because he has done something bad. As a result, they failed to understand what Job’s problems were all about. The Interpreter’s Bible evaluates their “comfort”:

“It becomes an irritant. . . . It is a comment from the side lines, with a bit of good advice thrown in. . . . like someone safely up on the beach throwing a cheery word or two to poor souls wrestling in the great dark deeps, with the huge billows knocking the breath out of them. What Job needs is the compassion of a human heart. What he gets is a series of absolutely ‘true’ and absolutely beautiful religious clichés and moral platitudes.”

What were some of the approaches that irritated? Eliphaz coldly reasoned: ‘Look, you strengthened others. Now when you have troubles you get disturbed. Should you not have confidence in your own integrity?’ Bildad added: ‘If you would only look to God more, he would restore you.’ How insensitive! Especially since Job was already trusting in God. How would you have felt? Rather than comfort, those seemingly well-intentioned words were “crushing” to Job. No wonder he cried out, ‘If only you were in my place!’​—Job 4:3-6; 8:5, 6; 16:2, 4, 5; 19:2.

Of course, no Christian congregation elder would want to reflect the attitude or demon-inspired philosophy of those “friends.” (Job 4:15, 16) Yet, at times, comforting shepherds have to remind themselves not to make similar mistakes. In trying to help a “depressed soul,” elders will likely inquire why the person feels so bad. Perhaps the depressed one thinks that he has lost God’s spirit. Elders know from Scriptural examples, such as that of David, that sinful conduct can cause depression. (Ps. 38:1-6) They may read with the person portions of the Bible that deal with a Christian’s conduct and then perhaps ask, ‘In view of what the Bible says, do you have any real reason to feel that God has taken his spirit away from you?’ Rather than telling the person that he has done nothing wrong or perhaps implying that he has, it may be beneficial to let the person reach his own conclusion. He may realize that there is nothing to his feelings of guilt. Or, if he has become involved in wrongdoing, the elders can help him make “straight paths for [his] feet” and once again enjoy Jehovah’s smile of approval.​—Hebrews 12:12, 13.

Depressed persons often feel overwhelmed with guilt for no legitimate reason. Insight will help elders to recognize such situations. One depressed Christian who deeply appreciated the visits of her loving shepherds to help her was convinced that she had lost God’s spirit. “Really, try to think hard and see if there is something bad you’ve done,” said an elder at one point. The woman just sat there and cried. “But I can’t think of anything. Do you want me to make something up? Will that help?” she sobbed. The elders got the point and tried other ways to help.

Job’s counselors had already made up their minds that Job had done something wrong. Elders who know “how to encourage the weary” will handle each situation “without prejudgment, doing nothing according to a biased leaning.” (1 Timothy 5:21) When using probing questions they do not accuse, but do so in an empathetic way, really putting themselves in the other’s place.

Counselors with Insight

Elihu, though direct at times in his counsel, showed insight. He was a good listener. He did not ‘answer before he listened,’ which the Bible bluntly calls “stupid and insulting.” (Proverbs 18:13, Beck) He commended Job because of his faithfulness and encouraged him to express himself. Such insight added “persuasiveness” to Elihu’s words.​—Job 32:4, 11; 33:5-7, 32; Proverbs 16:23.

Jehovah is the supreme example of a counselor with insight. How he dealt with the prophet Jonah shows discerning empathy and compassion. Jonah became angry when Jehovah decided not to destroy the Ninevites and thereby fulfill the prophet’s message of doom. Jonah became so depressed he wanted to die. Now how did Jehovah deal with him? Did he say: ‘Why, Jonah, you are just being self-centered. Do you not have any love in your heart? All you are thinking about is how you look in the eyes of others!’ Such a statement might have been truthful. But probably it would only have made him feel more guilty and depressed. What did Jehovah do?

“Have you rightly become hot with anger?” asked Jehovah. Yes, a simple question designed to get him thinking. No accusation. No condemnation. Even though Jonah did not respond immediately, Jehovah did not give up on him, but provided a large plant to shelter him from the blazing sun. Then Jehovah used an illustration that apparently touched Jonah’s heart. He caused the large plant to die. When Jonah was angered over the death of the plant, Jehovah helped him to see how much more precious were the lives of the Ninevites than the life of that plant. Should he not feel even more pity for them than for the death of a mere plant? Simple, yet effective!​—Jonah 4:1-11.

When elders endeavor to encourage depressed souls they need to imitate Jehovah and Elihu. Be generous in genuine commendation. Use simple, direct statements and questions. Use easy-to-understand language. Be specific, yet avoid intimidating questions. Illustrations that may get the person to think or become emotionally involved in a somewhat different matter (for example, Jonah’s becoming angry over the death of the plant) may be used to help an individual to see the error of his own thinking. But remember: “As apples of gold in silver carvings is a word spoken at the right time for it.” (Proverbs 25:11) If the person has faulty thinking, help him to overcome it gradually. Work to build up his low self-esteem. “A heart bowed down with anxiety, how a kind word can refresh it!”​—Proverbs 12:25, Knox.

But what kind of suggestions can an elder try to get across to a depressed one?

Help from Meaningful Prayers

“Even though I felt that Jehovah did understand completely, there were times when the depression or panic was so severe I thought it was hopeless to pray,” reports one depressed soul. However, elders, while acknowledging that such feelings are common to many depressed persons, can encourage these to persist in prayer. But pray about what?

“I prayed that Jehovah would either help me to endure or direct me to where I could find help,” reported one depressed young woman. A 33-year-old mother with an unbelieving abusive husband became depressed. She stated: “When I became overly anxious, tense or had fears, I would go to Jehovah right then and there, on hands and knees sometimes, weeping, begging him to help me overcome this. It was very important to be specific in the prayer. Many times I would get instant relief.” One 41-year-old wife said: “When I was depressed I found it hard to form a prayer. But Romans 8:26 was a real source of comfort. So I could just ask Jehovah, ‘Please help!’”

Elders can pray with and for the person. Of course, they should avoid statements that would make the person feel all the more guilty. Asking Jehovah, with the depressed one listening, to help that one to understand how much he or she is loved by others and even by Jehovah would surely be upbuilding. Also, the sufferer may be shown the relief that earnest prayer, coupled with reliance on Jehovah, can bring.​—1 Samuel 1:9-18.

Help Weary Gain Insight

“Sometimes people feel they have lost their faith and often feel very guilty about it,” explains Dr. Nathan Kline, director of Rockland Research Institute Department of Mental Hygiene of New York State. “Though there are cases of spiritual failure, I think that in many cases it is probably not a failure of religious faith, but an early sign of depression.” He made this statement after noticing these symptoms in a number of his patients who were deeply religious. So, often helping a person with a serious depression to realize this can relieve much needless guilt.

One Witness who has aided a number of “depressed souls” back to health states: “The needless guilt that some put themselves under is unbelievable. I feel guilty about wrongs I’ve done, but I also believe that if Jehovah provided the ransom to undo these things then I cannot beat myself forever about it. This is one of the points I try very hard to get through to those I’m helping.” The person needs to realize that if he is truly repentant over some bad act, has the desire never to repeat it and is really trying to ‘right the wrong,’ then he can be confident that the ransom will cleanse his conscience. Helping persons who have ‘godly sorrow’ to see the mercy and forgiveness of Jehovah does often relieve their depression.​—Psalm 32:1-5, 11; 103:8-14; 2 Corinthians 7:9-11.

Even if wrong thoughts plague the mind of a depressed soul, there is no need to feel worthless and “condemned by God.” It is the cultivating and the ‘carrying out’ of such thoughts that the Bible warns against. (James 1:14, 15; Galatians 5:16) So as long as one is putting forth effort to dismiss such thoughts he should not feel overwhelmed with guilt.

For instance, anger or resentment may flood into a depressed person’s mind. Not much is accomplished by an elder’s telling the person, ‘You must not feel that way,’ or ‘You should not feel like that.’ The point is, the person does feel it! While realistically acknowledging that a person will feel angry at times, the Bible warns against carrying out such a rage. (Psalm 4:4; 37:8) It encourages us not to keep in a provoked state. (Ephesians 4:26, 27) So the discerning elder may, with a few simple questions, find out why the sufferer feels angry. After the person is helped to analyze the situation (as Jonah was), he may see that there is no sound basis for his anger. Also, if someone has offended him, he may be helped to follow certain Scriptural steps and thereby overcome the resentment.​—Colossians 3:13; Matthew 5:23, 24; Luke 17:3, 4.

If an elder can be alert to negative attitudes in weary ones, when the depression is at its earlier stages, then oftentimes a person can be readjusted and be saved from plunging into major depression​—a disorder that may require medical help. Here, too, the elder may aid the depressed person or his family to realize when the disorder has reached that point where medical attention is needed. This does not mean that elders would ‘play doctor,’ nor dictate what form of treatment to follow. They may wish to refer those involved to the article “Attacking Major Depression​—Professional Treatments” in the October 22, 1981, Awake!, which outlines several therapies and yet does not promote any.

Help Regain Balance

“Hanging on for dear life every minute of every day,” is how one 40-year-old Christian mother described her bout with major depression. After her recovery she analyzed one of the causes: “Trying not to let anyone down or let any area of my family life or service slacken even a tiny bit, I held to a schedule that left me exhausted. I did this for eight years; and, finally, the doctor said I had ‘burned out.’ Looking back, I feel that even though my reasons for keeping such a schedule were not frivolous, I should have been more reasonable.”

Because of the danger of a person’s becoming unreasonable, elders must at times help a depressed person to regain balance in his activities. Certainly they would encourage whole-souled service to God. In fact, at times when some who were suffering severe major depression were not able to engage in door-to-door preaching, arrangements were made whereby the ailing one, his condition permitting, sat in on a Bible discussion conducted by another Witness. The depressed one contributed as he was able.

Remember the apostle Paul commanded Christians to “present [their] bodies a sacrifice living, holy, acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason.” (Romans 12:1) Yes, a person’s reasoning faculties were to be involved. The Greek word translated “power of reason” (logikos) literally means being “logical.” So God expects us to do what is reasonable, logical. Each person’s abilities, physical stamina and circumstances are different. Whole-souled service means to do all that your soul and strength are capable of doing, not someone else’s.​—Mark 12:30; Colossians 3:23.

When a person is sick his strength is less, even though his heart and mind may wish to do as much in God’s service as before. True, all those who will gain everlasting life must ‘exert themselves vigorously,’ but such exertion is not always strictly measured in the amount of work one does. The amount of vigorous activity possible for Epaphroditus in the “Lord’s work” when he was sick would not have compared with what he did when he was well. Yet, as a whole, he was commended by Paul for his exertion.​—Luke 13:24; Philippians 2:25-30.

Changed circumstances, such as illness, may hinder us from fully accomplishing what our heart desires. For instance, the wife of a traveling overseer fell into a major depression. She reported: “All my life I’ve been extremely active and I thoroughly enjoyed my service to God. But then for about nine months, without relief, I had the horrible feeling of being in the ‘pits’ of the earth.” She and her husband had to take a leave from the work of visiting congregations and she was treated by a doctor for her illness. After more than a year she regained her health to the point that they could once again take up this vigorous assignment of service. Presently just as whole-souled as before, she writes: “I’m happy again in my service. But now when I feel overly tired and exhausted, I stay home and rest and try to heed the body’s signals. Now I recognize the symptoms and I’m so thankful to Jehovah that I’m on the road to recovery.”

Yes, how thankful we all can be that we have as our God one who accepts our gifts and sacrifices, ‘according to what we have, not according to what we do not have.’ This is true whether such sacrifices are spiritual, material or of our physical strength.​—2 Corinthians 8:12.

Yet at times a depressed person may have to be helped to be more discerning in how he uses his strength. One sister who suffered major depression commented: “I was unbalanced. I didn’t know how to say, ‘No.’ Anytime someone would ask me to do something it was always, ‘Yes, fine.’ I had to learn to say, ‘No, I’m sorry. I really cannot. Maybe I can help you another time.’ I had to learn this or else I would have been in a frenzy.” A person who constantly tries to go beyond his strength could end up with severe depression. The wise man advised: “Do not become righteous overmuch, nor show yourself excessively wise. Why should you cause desolation to yourself? Do not be wicked overmuch, nor become foolish. Why should you die when it is not your time?”​—Ecclesiastes 7:16, 17.

To speak consolingly to depressed souls takes genuine effort. One must learn by heeding the counsel of God’s Word. Insight must also be learned. But the results are worth it.

Imagine the joy of seeing someone that is heartbroken​—tearfully expressing his or her feelings—​begin to change. Gradually a sparkle replaces the tears. A smile now warms the face. How grateful such a person is to a loving, understanding shepherd! And, above all, how pleased is our compassionate heavenly Father, who “comforts the depressed.”​—2 Corinthians 7:6, New American Standard Bible.

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We should avoid being like Job’s companions​—troublesome comforters

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Do you add to the problems of depressed ones, or do you really comfort them?

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Elders can pray with and for the person, avoiding statements that would make that one feel all the more guilty

Insight on the News

‘Not Creating Life’

In recent years it has often been reported that scientists were close to creating life in their laboratories. However, Dr. James Freisen, a professor of genetics at the University of Toronto, said: “We can’t make the simplest organism. It’s like a collection of watch parts. We have the springs and gears but can’t put them together. You can put them in a box and shake the parts around and some might even fit into one another but it won’t make a watch that will tick.” A colleague, Arthur Zimmerman, also stated: “We haven’t even come close to creating life. We manipulate cells but we can’t create them and won’t in my lifetime or I suspect, my children’s.”

New discoveries regarding the complexity of cell structure have stunned scientists, and have also frustrated them. As Freisen notes: “It’s a case of the more we know, the more we realize we don’t know. We’re asking questions at a much deeper level. We don’t understand it still but now we don’t understand it at a deeper level.” He also said of all the complex cell parts: “We have no idea how it all comes together and makes a self-sustaining unit like a cell. . . . How they interact in a self-regulating, self-reproducing life machine is the mystery.” He observed that even the simplest organism, a virus, baffles scientists: “It only has about 50 genes but the people who study it couldn’t put it together and make it work.”

Such superbly organized living matter requires a designer of infinite wisdom. Thus the Bible acknowledges of God: “With you is the source of life.”​—Psalm 36:9.

Condoning Immorality

When individuals or organizations call themselves Christian, others have the right to assume that these are promoting Biblical Christianity. But Jesus warned: “Be on the watch for the false prophets that come to you in sheep’s covering, but inside they are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:15, 16) In the magazine entitled The Christian Century one would expect to find counsel for Christian living. However, this publication carried an article by retired Church of Christ clergyman Porter French of Iowa that apparently condones that young men and women live together without marriage. He said: “We need to develop a more sound and secure view of sexuality in this country.” What did this include? He declared: “We can let our young men and women know that they are not going to experience condemnation and isolation if they try living together. . . . And those of us who were brought up in an age when living together was never considered a possibility may recognize that these who have taken greater risks than we did may, in the end, turn out to be wiser at an earlier age.”

But would not the Creator’s view be the really “sound and secure” one? God’s Word counsels persons to “shun fornication.” While mercifully allowing persons time to remake their personalities to conform to his righteous requirements, yet, concerning those who reject his high moral laws, the Bible says: “Make no mistake: no fornicator . . . will possess the kingdom of God.”​—1 Corinthians 6:18, 9, 10, The New English Bible.

Churches Fail in Africa

In the Paris weekly Jeune Afrique history professor Ibrahima Baba Kaké of Guinea tells why so many Africans turn away from the churches of Christendom. For one thing, he noted the resentment that built up in Africa during the nineteenth century when church missionaries followed in the footsteps of conquering colonial armies. He added: “The collusion of the Church with the colonizers was not the only obstacle to Christianity, but primarily their missionaries’ contempt for precolonial beliefs. Under the cover of Christ’s tunic, they wanted to make a clean sweep of existing African cultures. This attitude made many communities close their minds to Christianity.” Foreseeing a return to animism on the part of many Africans, the professor observed: “Imported religions have not met up to expectations and people have gone back to their ancient gods.”

Loyally Submitting to Theocratic Order

“Look! How good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity! It is like the dew of Hermon that is descending upon the mountains of Zion.”​—Psalm 133:1, 3.

1. How does Jehovah’s Word describe his earthly household of dedicated servants?

WHAT a fine description this is of the household of those who, though widely spread around the earth, have dedicated their lives to their common Parent, Jehovah God! And He surely presides over this global household in a grand manner. Lovingly he provides for all our needs.​—Psalm 145:16.

2. What does submitting to theocratic order mean?

² Yet, firmly Jehovah insists on peace and unity on the part of all his devoted children. (1 Corinthians 1:10) And these good results come by God’s servants loyally submitting to theocratic order. What does that mean? Since God’s rulership is called a theocracy (God rule), submitting to theocratic order means being obedient to the laws, rules and principles issuing from God.​—Isaiah 33:22.

3. How did Jesus express his feelings about submitting to God’s rule?

³ The finest example of loyally submitting to theocratic order is that of Jesus Christ. In heaven he was “the firstborn of all creation.” (Colossians 1:15) “Jehovah himself produced me as the beginning of his way, the earliest of his achievements of long ago. From time indefinite I was installed, from the start, from times earlier than the earth. . . . I came to be beside [God] as a master worker, and I came to be the one he was specially fond of day by day, I being glad before him all the time.” (Proverbs 8:22, 23, 30) His delight in submitting to God’s rule was evident when he was on earth, for Jesus explained: “I have come down from heaven to do, not my will, but the will of him that sent me.” (John 6:38) As part of doing God’s will, he was very careful to teach God’s thoughts, not his own. “What I teach is not mine, but belongs to him that sent me,” Jesus said. (John 7:16) What a fine attitude for all of God’s servants to imitate!

4. Describe the theocratic arrangement in our day.

⁴ Because of his loyal submission to theocratic rule, even to the death, Jesus was rewarded with immortal heavenly life. Additionally, he was given “all authority . . . in heaven and on the earth.” (Matthew 28:18) In turn, he entrusted “all his belongings” on earth (earthly interests of his Kingdom) to faithful anointed Christians. These ones Jesus called a “faithful and discreet slave.” (Matthew 24:45-47) Their reward is someday to share heavenly rule with Christ as “priests” and “kings” in his kingdom. (Revelation 14:1, 4; 20:6) Today, a remnant of this ‘faithful slave’ is still alive on earth. Their duties include receiving and passing on to all of Jehovah’s earthly servants spiritual food at the proper time. They occupy a position similar to that of Paul and his colaborers when that apostle said of the wonderful truths God gives to his people: “It is to us God has revealed them through his spirit.” (1 Corinthians 2:9, 10) They also take the lead in the Kingdom preaching service that must be accomplished “in all the inhabited earth” before the end of this doomed system of things.​—Matthew 24:14.

Results of Wrong Course

5, 6. (a) What consequences came to Eve and Adam for wanting independence from Jehovah? (b) How does Jehovah deal with ‘wolves in sheep’s clothing’?

⁵ How vital it is for everyone in God’s family to submit loyally to the teachings and arrangements of the Great Theocrat, Jehovah, and his King-Son, Christ Jesus, as transmitted through the ‘faithful slave’ on earth! Since theocratic order begins with Jehovah himself and extends downward, never would we want to imitate Satan the Devil by becoming independent of theocratic rule. Recall the sorry results that came to Eve when she listened to Satan’s deceptive urging for her not to submit to theocratic order. In effect, he said to her: ‘Be independent of God. Do your own thinking. Decide for yourself what is right and wrong. Then you’ll be like God. You positively will not die.’ (Genesis 3:1-5) That may have sounded appealing, but it was a lie. (John 8:44) When her husband joined her in abandoning submission to theocratic order, they were expelled from the garden of Eden and from God’s family of loyal ones. In time, just as Jehovah had warned, the death sentence was executed on both of them.​—Genesis 2:17.

⁶ Likewise today, any among Jehovah’s people who indulge in independent and contrary teaching imitate, not God, but Satan the Devil. However, Jehovah sees what is happening among his family and takes account. (Proverbs 15:3) He will not tolerate wolflike persons who would devour his sheeplike ones, but at the proper time he takes decisive action. (Matthew 7:15-23) Like a loving father, he protects the spiritual well-being of his family.​—Ezekiel 34:11-16.

7. (a) What did Aaron and Miriam fail to take to heart? (b) With what consequences?

⁷ Other Bible examples also highlight the danger of not loyally submitting to theocratic order. For example, Miriam and Aaron presumed on their family relationship with Moses and challenged his position in the congregation of ancient Israel. (Numbers 12:1, 2) They failed to take to heart the fact that Jehovah himself had assigned to Moses special authority, attested to by miraculous events. Jehovah reminded them: “My servant Moses . . . is being entrusted with all my house. Mouth to mouth I speak to him. . . . Why, then, did you not fear to speak against my servant, against Moses?” Then “Jehovah’s anger got to be hot against them.” Aaron was severely rebuked, and, for her part, Miriam was struck with leprosy and expelled from the camp of Israel for seven days.​—Numbers 12:7-15.

8. What does the case of King Saul illustrate?

⁸ Then there was King Saul of ancient Israel who refused to wait on Jehovah. Instead, he presumptuously offered up sacrifices even though he was not a priest. His feeble excuse was that he was in danger of losing his army through desertions. Yet, whose army was it? Saul’s or Jehovah’s? The prophet Samuel told him: “You have acted foolishly. You have not kept the commandment of Jehovah your God . . . And now your kingdom will not last.” (1 Samuel 13:13, 14) The kingship was taken from Saul and given to ‘a man agreeable to Jehovah’s heart.’ Thus, Saul paid a heavy price for his lack of submission and also for his lack of genuine repentance when the matter was called to his attention. This illustrates that Jehovah does take note of presumptuous, independent, nontheocratic activity among his people.​—Proverbs 11:2.

9. Why was King Uzziah made an outcast?

⁹ The case of King Uzziah of Judah is similar. Although he was king over Jehovah’s people, he was not authorized to serve in any priestly capacity. Yet he insisted on exercising the function of a priest. The priests protested vigorously and declared: “It is not your business, O Uzziah, to burn incense to Jehovah, but it is the business of the priests the sons of Aaron, the ones sanctified, to burn incense. Go out from the sanctuary; for you have acted unfaithfully.” Then, showing his lack of repentance, Uzziah raged against the priests, adding to his sin of presumptuousness. “During his rage against the priests, leprosy itself flashed up in his forehead . . . because Jehovah had smitten him.” He continued to be a leper to his dying day, an outcast, “severed from the house of Jehovah.”​—2 Chronicles 26:16-21.

10. How did Paul describe those who challenged his appointment by Jesus?

¹⁰ The apostle Paul spoke of certain ones who challenged the special appointment he had from the Head of the Christian congregation, Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 11:12) But Paul said that such men were “false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself keeps transforming himself into an angel of light.” (2 Corinthians 11:13, 14) Those men had their own selfish purposes to advance. Paul had warned of this kind of person, stating: “From among you yourselves men will rise and speak twisted things to draw away the disciples after themselves. Therefore keep awake.” (Acts 20:30, 31) Paul pleaded with the brothers, including those would-be apostles, not to allow strife and disorder to mar the unity and fruitfulness of the Christian congregation. If any failed to heed the spirit-inspired counsel, then they were headed for certain disaster.​—Galatians 1:7-9.

11. How does Jehovah protect the harmony of his earthly household?

¹¹ The inspired Bible writer John declared: “Everyone that pushes ahead and does not remain in the teaching of the Christ does not have God. . . . If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, never receive him into your homes or say a greeting to him. For he that says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works.” (2 John 9-11) Yes, Jehovah will protect the good spirit and harmony of his household.

Being on Guard Today

12. To what is Jehovah gathering all those who love him?

¹² In this “final part of the days” Jehovah is gathering all those who love him into one unified, harmonious organization. People of all nations are heeding the call, “Come, you people, and let us go up to the mountain of Jehovah, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will instruct us about his ways, and we will walk in his paths.” (Isaiah 2:2, 3) Note that Jehovah instructs people in his ways so that they can walk in his paths, not their own ways and their own paths.​—Jeremiah 10:23, 24.

13. (a) Why must we be especially on guard now? (b) What do we need to offset Satan’s designs?

¹³ However, Satan now has “great anger.” He knows that he has only “a short period of time” left before he is put out of action. So he “walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone.” (Revelation 12:12; 1 Peter 5:8) Therefore, we need to be on guard against any efforts of the god of this world, Satan the Devil, to introduce contention and division among the members of Jehovah’s family. “So keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons, buying out the opportune time for yourselves, because the days are wicked. On this account cease becoming unreasonable, but go on perceiving what the will of Jehovah is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17) By taking advantage of Jehovah’s provisions for our spiritual welfare, we will be built up, refined, properly armed. In this way we will be able to offset Satan’s wicked schemes and defeat his purpose.​—Ephesians 6:10-13.

14. Why is there great danger in thinking more highly of ourselves than we ought to?

¹⁴ A mental attitude that must be guarded against is thinking more highly of ourselves than we ought to think. (Romans 12:3) That could lead a Christian into believing that he has a special mission from God apart from the channel through which Jehovah dispenses his truths and directs his household. It would, in effect, place him in a supposed special relationship with Jehovah not enjoyed by any other brother or sister in the household. But that sort of isolation can lead only to folly: “One isolating himself will seek his own selfish longing; against all practical wisdom he will break forth.”​—Proverbs 18:1.

Waiting on Jehovah

15. (a) Is it proper to make suggestions to Jehovah’s “slave” class? (b) Illustrate the application of theocratic submission in the first century.

¹⁵ At times, some bring to the attention of the “slave” class various doctrinal or organizational matters that they feel ought to be revised. Certainly, suggestions for improvement are proper, as are inquiries for clarification. An example of this was when Paul, Barnabas and others were sent “to go up to the apostles and older men in Jerusalem” regarding circumcision. When those elders at Jerusalem decided the matter, under the direction of holy spirit, they then sent brothers to various cities to “deliver to those there for observance the decrees that had been decided upon by the apostles and older men who were in Jerusalem.” Loyal submission to those decrees brought Jehovah’s blessing. Thus, “the congregations continued to be made firm in the faith and to increase in number from day to day.”​—Acts 15:1–16:5.

16. (a) What is the proper spirit to show after offering suggestions? (b) How does Paul counsel handling those who show the wrong spirit?

¹⁶ The proper spirit after offering suggestions is to be content to leave the matter to the prayerful consideration of the mature brothers directing the work in Jehovah’s organization. But if those making the suggestions are not content with that and continue to dispute the subject in the congregations with a view to getting others to support them, what then? That would create divisions, and could subvert the faith of some. So Paul counsels: “Keep your eye on those who cause divisions and occasions for stumbling contrary to the teaching that you have learned, and avoid them.” Paul also counseled Titus to “reprove those who contradict,” adding: “It is necessary to shut the mouths of these, as these very men keep on subverting entire households by teaching things they ought not . . . For this very cause keep on reproving them with severity.”​—Romans 16:17, 18; Titus 1:9-13.

17. How can we today imitate David’s fine attitude?

¹⁷ God’s Word states: “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” (1 Corinthians 8:1) So how much better to keep busy in the primary work of proclaiming God’s wonderful kingdom, speaking upbuilding things, strengthening the faith of others and ourselves, while patiently waiting for Jehovah to work out his will through his appointed channel! (Romans 14:19; Philippians 4:8, 9) Imitate David when he said: “For on you, O Jehovah, I waited; you yourself proceeded to answer, O Jehovah my God.” (Psalm 38:15) Always keep in mind the important consideration as stated by Paul, namely, “that you should all speak in agreement, and that there should not be divisions among you, but that you may be fitly united in the same mind and in the same line of thought.” (1 Corinthians 1:10) Because this principle is being applied in Jehovah’s family throughout the world, we see marvelous results. Indeed, “how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together in unity”!​—Psalm 133:1.

Can You Answer These Questions:

□ How did Jesus set a fine example in submitting to theocratic order?

□ What can result from a lack of submission to theocratic order?

□ Why must we be especially on guard against Satan today?

□ In making suggestions, what attitude should we have?

[Picture on page 18]

Because of not submitting to theocratic order, King Uzziah was struck with leprosy

“Each One in His Place”

“All the while they kept standing each one in his place all around the camp.”​—Judges 7:21.

1, 2. Contrast God’s works with man’s works.

WHAT comes to your mind when you contrast the harmony of God’s handiwork with the disorder in human society? Do you not agree with the inspired Bible writer who said: “For God is a God, not of disorder, but of peace”? (1 Corinthians 14:33) Those words of the apostle Paul show that God could not be responsible for the world’s confused state of affairs. Jehovah knows how to arrange matters so that everything governed by his laws has its place. His creations around us testify to this fact. Man’s expanding knowledge of the universe bears witness over and over again to the prevailing order and control exhibited there. Wherever he points his telescopes, man notes that every star and planet is in its place, moving orderly in its orbit.

² What a different scene it is when we turn our attention to the affairs of wayward men on earth! There is so much confusion, disorder and murderous rivalry! Humankind is politically, religiously, socially and racially divided, and overwhelmed by unsolvable problems. Crime has become so rampant that it is impossible to discover and bring to justice every lawbreaker. Even soldiers in national armies who are supposed to serve under strict discipline frequently break the rules.

3. What are Christians likened to, but what is their fight?

³ It is little wonder then that, just as Jehovah concerns himself with the physical universe, he is concerned also with peace and order among his representatives on earth. As his servants, individual Christians are likened to disciplined soldiers in an army. The apostle Paul wrote that each should be like “a loyal soldier of Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 2:3, Today’s English Version) Each one of us should want to “go on waging the fine warfare.” (1 Timothy 1:18) But our fight, it must always be remembered, is not a physical one. It is spiritual. It is against the invisible “world rulers of this darkness, against the wicked spirit forces in the heavenly places.”​—Ephesians 6:12.

4. Why will Satan’s assaults against God’s servants not be successful?

⁴ However, the forces under “the god of this system of things” want to intimidate God’s servants so that they will lose courage and flee before the enemy. (2 Corinthians 4:4) But this strategy of opposers will fail miserably because it is Jehovah who is directing matters and it is he who is ‘teaching our hands for warfare.’ (Psalm 18:34) We are encouraged by the assurance that “the battle is not yours, but God’s.” (2 Chronicles 20:15) Through his mighty Field Marshal, Christ Jesus, Jehovah will direct the fight to its victorious finish. Hence, he assures his loyal ones that they will never be put to shame. Never will they need to retreat before the onslaughts of opposers.​—Psalm 18:25.

5. Why did Jehovah instruct Gideon contrary to human ideas on war strategy?

⁵ By means of the thrilling, inspired account of a battle fought in the days of the judges in Israel, centuries before our Common Era, Jehovah calls our attention to some principles of warfare that the ‘soldiers of Christ’ do well to heed. It was in Judge Gideon’s time, when a host of demon worshipers “as numerous as the locusts” invaded the land of Israel. (Judges 6:5) Jehovah instructed Gideon as to how the army of Israel should meet this seemingly overwhelming threat. Contrary to all human ideas on war strategy, Gideon was directed to reduce his army from 32,000 to 10,000, and then from 10,000 to only 300. By these few, Jehovah promised, “I shall save you people.”​—Judges 7:2-7.

6. Describe the attack of Gideon and the 300 on the Midianite camp.

⁶ The 300 were equipped with horns and large empty jars, with torches inside the jars. In the dead of night Gideon deployed them around the camp of Midian and their allies. They were instructed to listen for the signal to be given by Gideon, and then to go into action. Loyal obedience and strict compliance with the battle orders of Gideon were vital. When all were in place, Gideon gave the signal. At that, the 300 “blew the horns and shattered the large jars [covering their torches] and took fresh hold on the torches with their left hand and with their right hand on the horns to blow them, and they began calling out: ‘Jehovah’s sword and Gideon’s!’ All the while they kept standing each one in his place all around the camp, and the whole camp got on the run and broke out into shouting and went fleeing.” The enemy was crushed.​—Judges 7:19-22.

7. What questions arise regarding this Bible event?

⁷ Some pertinent questions arise here. For example, would Jehovah have granted such a tremendous triumph if the 300 had treated lightly his battle orders? What if they had failed to wait for Gideon’s signal? Had they neglected any of the battle equipment with which Gideon had provided them, what then? Would they have been successful if each one had decided for himself that there were other vantage points at the edge of the enemy camp that were preferable to those assigned? In all of this, there are vital principles by which we should be guided today, since ‘these things were befalling them for us to note the example and benefit ourselves.’​—1 Corinthians 10:11.

8. To whom must we look for victory in our warfare?

⁸ In our Christian warfare we must acknowledge Jehovah in all our ways. We must look to and trust in him as the Giver of victory. On the other hand, clever human strategy, the deepest thinking of mere men, cannot guarantee success. “Not by a military force, nor by power, but by my spirit,” Jehovah says. (Zechariah 4:6) So in conducting our day-to-day fight in support of truth and righteousness, we Christians will avoid worldly ideas and methods that are in opposition to the principles God provides to guide his people. A leaning toward the counsel of worldlings bespeaks a weakening of faith in our God’s ability to come to our aid in times of need. Our conviction should be as strong as that of Bible writer James (1:5): “So, if any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching; and it will be given him.”

“Learn from Watching Me”

9, 10. (a) Who is our Commander and Leader today? (b) How can we ‘watch’ him, since he is invisible?

⁹ Christ Jesus, the Greater Gideon, now is in full command of his visible and invisible forces. Through him Jehovah progressively reveals his purposes and his timing of events for his people. How thrilling it is to realize that Christ Jesus is actively engaged in directing his “soldiers” on earth, thus ensuring them a share in ultimate victory! True to his promise, he is with them “all the days until the conclusion of the system of things.”​—Matthew 28:20.

¹⁰ Since Christ Jesus is now the enthroned Leader and Commander of all fighters for truth and righteousness, we can unitedly ‘learn from watching him’ as the 300 learned from watching Gideon. (Judges 7:17) But how can we today ‘watch’ Christ, since he is invisible? We ‘watch’ him in the sense that we discern his signals as given through his visible “slave” appointee over all the earthly interests of his kingdom. (Matthew 24:45-47) Through this spirit-appointed channel his direction and strategy are communicated to all who are his “soldiers.” These latter cannot afford to move ahead on their own or become impatient because their view of things is not coming to pass. The timing of matters is provided by our invisible Commander. His view is the important consideration, not our own personal views.

Divinely Provided Equipment

11. What type of equipment do God’s servants use today?

¹¹ The Greater Gideon knows what equipment his soldiers on earth require. It is not literal arms and armor that we need, for we are not fighting against fellow humans. Ours is a spiritual warfare. So our weapons are “powerful by God for overturning strongly entrenched things . . . overturning reasonings and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God . . . bringing every thought into captivity to make it obedient to the Christ.” (2 Corinthians 10:4, 5) Regardless of the opposition that may come upon them, faithful Christian warriors must become skilled at using the divinely provided equipment so as to be able to do as the apostle Paul did, namely, ‘be telling people all the counsel of God.’​—Acts 20:27.

12. (a) Why was Gideon’s small band so effective? (b) Why are Jehovah’s servants so effective today?

¹² Gideon’s soldiers had to act as one man and use their equipment in order to achieve the desired result. The crashing of 300 earthenware jars, the holding aloft of 300 torches, the alarm sounded by 300 horn blasts, and the shouts from 300 voices borne in upon them from all sides on the still night air surely had a devastating effect on the Midianites! Similarly, is it not true that even now the united proclamation of God’s kingdom and his vengeance causes the enemy to exaggerate the scope and danger of the proclaimed message to them? Why is this so? Because the entire organization of Jehovah’s people gladly conform to the timing of their specific messages to the world as directed by the Greater Gideon through his appointed “slave.” On the other hand, if each one of Jehovah’s Witnesses did as he pleased about when and how to declare God’s message, how could the worldwide witness ever be given? Surely it is clear that Jehovah’s will is that we “have among [ourselves] the same mental attitude that Christ Jesus [the Greater Gideon] had, that with one accord [we] may with one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”​—Romans 15:5, 6.

13, 14. What is it that gives force to the message of Jehovah’s servants today?

¹³ The unifying force is Jehovah’s spirit and his Word, the Bible. Happily, we are not going out each one teaching his own impression of the Bible’s message. Jehovah has provided a goodly quantity of aids to Bible understanding in the form of publications, so that our thinking and our teaching may be harmonious. We thus avoid the deadly lack of unity and the multitudinous conflicting doctrines of Christendom and heathendom. Nor do we pussyfoot and tone down the message of God to the nations, a message of great hope, true, but also one of vengeance and retribution. We are well aware that the trumpet sound must be loud and clear.​—1 Corinthians 14:8.

¹⁴ How appropriate, then, for all of us to appreciate the value of the equipment Jehovah provides for our Christian warfare! Also, he instructs us well in its use, so that a most effective witness may be given to individuals and to nations. It is not the voice of a lone person crying out in the wilderness, but is the loud, penetrating warning that is sounded throughout the world. Thus, ‘Jehovah is certainly giving forth his mighty voice before his military force.’​—Joel 2:9, 11.

“Each One in His Place”

15. What actions would have been unthinkable for one of Gideon’s men?

¹⁵ With Gideon’s three hundred, it was unthinkable for one of them, after he had been assigned his post, to balk and wish to change his post with someone else, or even to choose his own vantage point. That would be putting his own judgment ahead of the one Jehovah was using to direct the attack, Gideon. It would display a lack of humility and a lack of waiting upon Jehovah’s time and determination to make a change. How could such an attitude harmonize with a sincere participation in the shout: “Jehovah’s sword and Gideon’s!”?

16. How will humility help us in discharging our obligations?

¹⁶ In Jehovah’s arrangement of things today each one of us must have foremost in mind Jehovah’s purpose and the overall interests of his kingdom. We must discharge our assigned duty faithfully, whatever place in the organization is involved. (1 Corinthians 4:2) Also, we must display humility, which does not countenance self-promotion. The principle taught by Christ Jesus applies in all situations: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12) And James urges: “Humble yourselves [not merely in the eyes of men but] in the eyes of Jehovah, and he will exalt you.”​—James 4:10.

17. Does Jehovah take a personal interest in each one of us?

¹⁷ Hence, we can see the full significance of the words at Judges 7:21, “each one in his place.” As we serve in Jehovah’s organization let us be content to serve wherever he assigns us, and do the job as faithfully as we can. Let us be convinced that the One who takes note of the fall of a small sparrow has much more interest in us as we loyally work at whatever we are assigned to do. (Matthew 10:29-31) He knows what training we need, and what job we are fitted for, and so he deals with us accordingly. We may be sure that we are not being overlooked.​—1 Peter 5:10.

18. Why do we have such great confidence in Jehovah today?

¹⁸ Today, all of God’s servants are under the command of the Greater Gideon, Christ Jesus. Unitedly we want to serve for the vindication of Jehovah’s name, humbly remaining subject to his battle rules, “each one in his place.” We are confident that the overall strategy of Jehovah will ensure ultimate victory. And we are confident also that Jehovah sees our loyal obedience and will reward us with the “real life” in his new order, for his Word states: “Become steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord.”​—1 Timothy 6:19; 1 Corinthians 15:58.

Do You Remember These Points?

□ Why was Gideon’s strategy so different from worldly ideas on warfare?

□ What enabled Gideon to win such a complete victory?

□ How does Jehovah communicate with his servants today?

□ What is the right attitude of ‘soldiers of Christ’ today regarding their assignments?

[Blurb on page 23]

Loyal obedience and strict compliance with Jehovah’s orders gave Gideon and his men a tremendous victory

[Picture on page 25]

Jehovah has provided us with the vital equipment we need in our warfare today

Einstein’s Appraisal of Man’s Knowledge

“The greatest single achievement of science,” asserts noted science writer Lewis Thomas in an essay appearing in The New York Times, “is the discovery that we are profoundly ignorant.” Is this statement an exaggeration? To the contrary, in a letter to the Times, Ely E. Pilchik wrote: “Let me submit some support [for Thomas’ statement] from a fairly weighty source.” He explained that on May 20, 1954, he had addressed the following inquiry to Professor Albert Einstein:

“It has been reported to me that in the last month or so you had conversations with a visitor in which the subject of our knowledge of the laws of the universe was discussed. You indicated that despite all our recent advancements our knowledge remains rather meager. You illustrated this by two examples: First, our increase in knowledge is comparable to that which a man, interested in learning more about the moon, gets when he climbs upon the roof of his house to catch a closer look at that luminary.

“According to the report, your second illustration of our minimal knowledge of the universe focused on the moment you completed your formula of the general theory of relativity. [At] that moment an ordinary house-fly landed on your paper. You reflected that here you had set down all the major universal physical laws, as though to say, here is the key to all the secrets of the universe, yet you really do not know very much about the nature of that little fly.

“So have these words been conveyed to me. I should like, with your permission, to cite them if they be correct. If not, I would most deeply appreciate your correcting me.”

The inquirer received a reply dated May 21, 1954, which said: “The description of my conversation with your informant is substantially correct and you may use it in this form. With kind regards, Sincerely yours, (signed) A. Einstein.”​—New York Times, September 1, 1981.

Though man continues to increase his knowledge of the universe, it is still relatively meager, bringing to mind Job’s words concerning God and his creation: “Look! These are the fringes of his ways, and what a whisper of a matter has been heard of him! But of his mighty thunder who can show an understanding?”​—Job 26:14.

Solving Problems of Teenagers

Following is an excerpt from a letter received in the São Paulo, Brazil, branch office of Jehovah’s Witnesses. It was written by a mother who has four children and an unbelieving husband. Regarding her 13-year-old daughter, she wrote:

“I must confess that I have not given her enough attention . . .

“I began to notice that my daughter was cooling off in regards to attending meetings, family Bible discussions and field service. When I asked her what was wrong, the answer was, ‘Oh, nothing.’ Then one day she told me that she was sharing in these Christian activities because she was obliged to, not because she wanted to. She said she did not want to be like her sister, have one of Jehovah’s Witnesses as a boyfriend and marry ‘in the truth.’ She wanted the kind of life everyone else has. I could hardly believe my ears, since we do have good times together as a family.

“Upon my pressing her further, she said that in her chats with her school chums she could see what the world had to offer. And, according to them, I was mean and too strict a mother. So she asked me for five months without any Christian activity so she could figure out what she wanted in life.

“After thinking about this for some time, I suggested the following: That instead of my giving her five months without any Christian activity, she should give me five months to get closer to her. I would walk to and from school with her and she would go with me on my Bible studies and return visits. In other words, she would share more fully with me in my Christian activities.

“She agreed, and now two months have gone by and the results have been excellent. She herself admits that her attitude was just one of childish futility. Once again I see Jehovah’s hand over all my four children. I am really the privileged one. In my prayers I have offered my children to Jehovah, but I am the one receiving the gift.”

Four months later the young girl was again sharing fully and voluntarily in all Christian activity, and the mother was wiser and more appreciative. It may be that her suggestion would help to solve problems that others have in raising their children.

Prospecting for Alaska’s Most Desirable Treasure

ALASKA is the largest state in the United States, but with the fewest inhabitants. Its name means “the mainland” or “The Great Land.” The very mention of the name fires the imagination. It is a land of superlatives. With its 586,000 square miles (1,517,733 km²) of land it consists of several geographic areas.

It has the vast northern area with its sparse plant life of shrubs, berries, moss and lichens. There are high mountain ranges with hundreds of active volcanoes and 20,000 square miles (51,800 km²) of glaciers. And finally there is the southern panhandle with the mammoth rain forests. All together, it boasts 3,000,000 lakes. It is inhabited by three ethnic groups​—Eskimos, Indians and European stock.

This great country is a literal treasure-house of wealth. First, early traders sought out valuable furs. Then men and industries came seeking the wealth of gold, fish and timber. And most recently oil has been the sought-out treasure.

But there is yet another treasure being sought out in Alaska. This treasure is described in the Bible as the “desirable things of all the nations.” (Haggai 2:7) These “desirable things” are people who are gathered to the true worship of God. The hunting or prospecting for this treasure is done by preaching the good news of the Kingdom.

Early Prospecting

About 1910 a whaling skipper, Captain Beams, began to bring the message of God’s kingdom to Alaska. He spoke with persons whom he met and placed Bible-based literature published by the Watchtower Society.

Then in the late 1920’s and the 1930’s, Frank Day, a resident of Seattle, Washington, made a number of missionary trips to far-flung towns and villages of Alaska. He earned his way by selling eyeglasses. Even though Day had an artificial leg, he practically covered Alaska, planting seeds of Bible truth and leaving Bible literature. Communities from Ketchikan to Nome, a distance of 1,270 air miles (2,044 km), were visited.

During the late 1930’s, Karl Liebau brought the Kingdom message to those living between Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, and the coastal port of Seward. Anchorage was founded in 1915 as a base camp for the laying of the Alaska Railroad, which stretches from Seward on the Gulf of Alaska 487 miles (785 km) northward to the interior city of Fairbanks. Liebau walked 180 miles (290 km) from Anchorage to Seward and back, speaking God’s Word with persons living in the “section houses” located every 26 miles (42 km) along the track.

With the strenuous efforts of such brothers, a good groundwork was laid for graduates of the missionary school of Gilead who were to come. In 1944 eight missionaries, consisting of six single brothers and one married couple, arrived in Alaska to take up work in Anchorage, Juneau and Ketchikan.

As time passed they spread out to other inhabited areas inland, along the coast and to the many coastal islands. They really roughed it, sometimes traveling by train, but often by coastal ships, earning their fare by working as stevedores. They also sailed smaller boats that they borrowed or bought, often experiencing dangers at sea.

They put their sleeping bags down anywhere they could find shelter. They took on all types of part-time work to help cover their travel expenses in this scattered territory. They really won the respect of the people who were not used to seeing ministers of religion take on hard manual work. Truly, these full-time missionaries did much to expand the preaching of the “good news” throughout Alaska, thus helping to establish many of the congregations in that state.

Preaching Despite Severe Weather

Not only can Alaska’s terrain present difficult working conditions, but weather conditions can also be severe. One housewife, who has been living in southeastern Alaska since 1948, describes her first winter in Juneau: “The winter seemed cold to me, with lots of snow. Most of the time the wind, known as ‘The Taku,’ would be blowing. It seems to blow in all directions at once. I can remember seeing it blow out windows and another time knocking over an elderly woman on the street. Once it blew a cannery building off its piling into the Gastineau Channel. It even caught a small airplane and sent it crashing into the channel in front of our home.”

At Fairbanks, in the interior, temperatures can span the range from 100-plus degrees Fahrenheit (38 C) in the summer to minus 70 degrees F (–57 C) in winter’s icy grip. It was into this environment that a group of five Christian couples from the lower part of the United States moved to help out in the preaching work. At that time, in 1959, there were only two Kingdom Halls in Alaska. One was in Anchorage and the other, a small surplus military structure, in Fairbanks. It so happened that one of the newly arrived Witnesses, then serving as the presiding overseer, was skilled in the building trades. He took the initiative in organizing the building of a new Kingdom Hall in Fairbanks, with a seating capacity of 200. This structure was dedicated in September 1961, just nine weeks after construction began, and to this day it serves the needs of two congregations.

This overseer has had a part in the building or remodeling of at least 11 Kingdom Halls and other theocratic building projects throughout Alaska. Today, within the Alaska territory, there are 14 modern Kingdom Halls. Also, there is a building to provide housing for some full-time ministers and a branch office that provides supervision for the congregations and preaching activity in Alaska.

Overcoming Problems of Isolation

What would you do if you were separated from a congregation of Jehovah’s people for 14 years? That was the case of a Christian wife and mother who accompanied her husband to an isolated floating logging camp in 1954. It was situated on the Inside Passage at the south end of Admiralty Island. During all these years this faithful Witness and her three young daughters conducted all the Christian meetings that are normally held in the congregation. They continued their “prospecting” by sharing the “good news” through correspondence and witnessing to the occasional visitor to their “floating” home. Many persons living in remote towns all over Alaska received letters from these devoted servants of God, and a number responded to the letters received, reaching out to make the treasure of God’s Word their own.

Today the mother lives in Alaska’s southernmost city, Ketchikan, and has been able to enjoy the full-time preaching service these past 12 years. All three daughters are continuing the faithful course of their mother. One is married to an elder in Anchorage and the youngest is serving as a member of the Bethel family in Germany.

Preaching in the Remote North

Determined to bring the preaching work to every remote village in their territory, the three congregations in the Fairbanks/​North Pole area arranged for the use of four aircraft owned by Witnesses. In a two-year period these congregations contributed more than $14,000 to cover the operating expenses of these aircraft as they traversed the vast areas north of the Alaska mountain range. As many as 14 men per trip shared in the effort to fly into each community in the area, covering approximately 326,000 square miles (844,340 km²). Over 200 villages and towns were visited during the two brief summers.

Along the west coast, the Eskimo population for the most part welcomed the Witnesses, eager to hear the Kingdom message. In the village of Shaktoolik, an older Eskimo couple, upon hearing of the Bible’s promise of a “new system,” pleaded with tears in their eyes, “Please, pray to Jehovah and ask him to let us be in that new order.”

Results of Prospecting

Could you number the gold prospectors that have combed Alaska’s vast reaches, or count the spades of dirt that have been turned, or measure the water used to sluice the gold-bearing gravel? No, one can only guess at the effort put forth to acquire the material wealth that only a surprising few ever found. Likewise, a tremendous amount of “prospecting” has been done by publishers of the “good news” in order to find the “desirable things of all the nations.” And it has “panned out,” sometimes in unexpected places and with surprisingly little effort. Note the following experience:

“My husband and I owned a mining claim about 400 miles (645 km) west of Mt. Susitna. In early April we started for Wisconsin to visit my sister and her husband. Since we had a two-hour wait in Anchorage, we went to see my other sister living there. While there, two of Jehovah’s Witnesses came to the door in what they said was a ‘Christian preaching work.’ I had never heard of Jehovah’s Witnesses so I listened to what they had to say. We actually had only a few minutes to talk, but I liked what I heard and ended up taking the Watchtower and Awake! magazines and also the book The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life. It was the most wonderful book I had ever read! My husband has now read it and feels the way I do about it.” They were baptized in October 1980.

The searching for those who are desirable in God’s eyes in Alaska has been a rewarding work. The 1940 Yearbook of Jehovah’s Witnesses does not indicate any witnesses of Jehovah in Alaska. By 1970 there were 814 sharing in the preaching work. During the past 11 years the number grew 57 percent to 1,290 sharing in the preaching work. In April of 1981 there were 3,282 attending the Memorial celebration of Christ’s death. Truly, there are good prospects for a continued ingathering here as well as in many other parts of the world.

Seven Decades of Faithfulness

George R. Phillips, known to thousands of Jehovah’s Witnesses, especially in Africa, recently completed his Christian service on earth. Born in Scotland in 1898, he was baptized in 1912 and two years later took up the full-time ministry. He was imprisoned during World War I because of maintaining Christian neutrality. In 1924 Brother Phillips was sent to Africa, where his ministerial field extended from the Cape of Good Hope up to Kenya. He was for years the overseer of the Watch Tower Society’s branch in South Africa. After some seven decades of service to God, Brother Phillips died on March 24, 1982, at the age of eighty-four.

Questions From Readers

◼ What did Jesus mean when he said about a demon: “This kind cannot get out by anything except by prayer”?

A man whose son was seized by “a speechless spirit” asked Jesus to expel the wicked spirit, for the disciples were unable to do so. Jesus, with God’s powerful backing, expelled the demon. Afterward the disciples asked: “Why could we not expel it?” According to Mark’s account, Christ replied: “This kind cannot get out by anything except by prayer.” (Mark 9:14-29) In his parallel account, Matthew presents Jesus’ reply this way: “Because of your little faith.”​—Matthew 17:14-20.

Why did he stress faith and prayer? Experience shows that the demons do not all necessarily have the same interests or abilities. For example, some seem to concentrate on haunting houses, whereas other wicked spirits focus on harassing or possessing humans. And we may conclude from Jesus’ reply that some demons are especially powerful.​—Ephesians 6:12.

While Jesus was on earth, God enabled some of his servants to cast out wicked spirits who possessed unfortunate individuals. The twelve apostles and seventy disciples were enabled to do so. (Matthew 10:8; Luke 10:17) But those of the apostles involved in the instance related in Matthew 17:14-20 and Mark 9:14-29 were unable to expel the demon. Why? What was lacking? Evidently it was the preparation called for in order to confront the sort of demon involved in this case. Strong faith was needed, along with prayer ahead of time requesting God’s empowering help. Though the accounts do not mention that Jesus offered a specific prayer in that case, he may have done so. Then he succeeded in casting out the powerful demon.

Why You Should Attend the “Kingdom Truth” District Convention

A thrilling four-day program of Bible instruction awaits you at the “Kingdom Truth” District Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses. By means of practical demonstrations, dramatic presentations and instructive discourses vital Bible guidance will be provided. Also, you will receive something that will have considerable influence on the work Christians will be doing in the days ahead.

Be present Thursday afternoon at 1:20 p.m., when the convention program begins. It is necessary that you squarely face the question of the keynote address: “Where Do You Stand on the Kingdom Issue?” No doubt on Friday you will appreciate so much what you receive that you will be moved to share it with others in the community.

Saturday’s program is filled with practical and needed instruction for living in today’s selfish, immoral world. You will hear such talks as “Counteracting Permissiveness with Bible Principles” and “Beware of Music That Debases.” By all means, do not miss the presentation with which Saturday’s program concludes​—it will feature information that will have long-lasting effects on the Kingdom-preaching work worldwide.

Sunday the full-costume dramatic presentation “Fearless Proclaimer of an Unpopular Message” will stir you to be like God’s prophet Jeremiah. Then you will not want to miss the public talk “The Truth That Can Set You Free.”

Since over 100 conventions are scheduled in the United States alone, there will be a convention not far from your home. Check with Jehovah’s Witnesses locally for the time and place of the one nearest to you.