The Watchtower — November 1, 1982

What Kind of World Tomorrow?

WHAT is on the horizon? A different world.

That is the substance of projections made by United States government agencies as found in “The Global 2000 Report to the President.” Volume One, prepared by the Council on Environmental Quality and the Department of State, says: “The world in 2000 will be different from the world today in important ways.” In what ways?

Among other things, the report foretells:

● “There will be more people. For every two persons on the earth in 1975 there will be three in 2000.”

● “The gap between the richest and the poorest will have increased.”

● “There will be fewer resources to go around.”

● “The environment will have lost important life-supporting capabilities.”

● “Prices will be higher.”

● “The world will be more vulnerable both to natural disaster and to disruptions from human causes.”

● “Finally, it must be emphasized that if public policy continues generally unchanged the world will be different as a result of lost opportunities.”

Doubtless you will agree that these prospects are not pleasant. They certainly do not provide a basis for great happiness.

Yet the Scriptures encourage gladness, saying: “Be glad, you nations, with his people.” (Romans 15:10; compare Deuteronomy 32:43.) The reference here is to people who worship God in a way acceptable to him. They do so “with spirit and truth.” (John 4:23, 24) But since we now face so many problems, is there really any reason to think you will ever live in a happy world?

Will You Ever Live in a Happy World?

THOSE who prove to be lovers of God​—“his people”—​have sound reasons to plan on living in a happy world. (Romans 15:10) Though the immediate future seems so bleak for the world of mankind, the God of heaven is having his “glorious good news” declared earth wide, and it is a heartening message indeed. (1 Timothy 1:11) Soon now, the long-promised heavenly kingdom of the Messianic King Jesus Christ will reverse the foreboding trends so evident on earth today and will eliminate the problems that now plague humanity. That kingdom is about to usher in a happy world.

What the Kingdom Will Do

Is there concern about the overpopulating of the earth? That will not get out of hand for either Jehovah God or the King Jesus Christ. God originally purposed that humans should “fill the earth,” not overfill it. By whatever means accomplished, we can be sure that the divine will in this matter will take place on earth.​—Genesis 1:27, 28; Isaiah 45:18.

Under the rule of God’s kingdom, will there be a distressing gap between the rich and the poor? No, indeed! Rather, it was reliably foretold in the Scriptures that God’s benevolent King “will deliver the poor one crying for help.”​—Psalm 72:1, 12, 13.

Are there grounds for despair over dwindling resources and the environment’s loss of “life-supporting capabilities”? Need we despair because prices are rising clear out of range for the average person? While the immediate future bodes little good along these lines, God’s Word, the Bible, promises: “There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow.” (Psalm 72:16) Does that sound like an earth bereft of resources, with an environment lacking essential “life-supporting capabilities”? Or does that Scriptural promise indicate such a lack of necessities that a satisfying life would be impossible on earth? Of course it does not.

Under kingdom rule, will the world be “more vulnerable both to natural disaster and to disruptions from human causes”? No, for soon God will ‘make wars to cease’ forever. Moreover, under kingdom administration the deserts will blossom, and harmful things no longer will threaten health and life. Unbounded happiness will replace hardship and grief.​—Compare Psalm 46:1, 9; Isaiah 35:1-10; 65:25.

Something New on the Horizon

Among the many heartening prophecies foretelling marvelous blessings for humankind is the one recorded by the Christian apostle John in these words:

“I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea is no more. I saw also the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God and prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: ‘Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.’”​—Revelation 21:1-4.

Here some of the language is highly symbolic, but the idea of great blessings is unmistakable. The “new heaven” is the heavenly kingdom of Jesus Christ and his 144,000 associate kings and priests. (Romans 8:16, 17; Revelation 14:1-4; 20:4) Instead of a new earthly globe, the “new earth” is a new society of people on this very earth, all of them fully subject to Christ’s kingdom without racial, national or language divisions. (Compare Psalm 96:1.) This will follow the destruction of the present symbolic “heaven” and “earth.” The promised new earthly society will be righteous because, whereas the literal seas will remain, the figurative “sea” of restless, rebellious, ungodly people will exist no longer. Christ’s associate heavenly rulers constitute the “New Jerusalem,” a capital organization for righteous human society. God will tent with these people on earth representatively until they are fully reconciled with him through Christ, “the Lamb of God,” after a thousand year judgment day.​—John 1:29, 36; Revelation 20:6.

Under kingdom rule, many will be the reasons for happiness. Mourning, outcry and pain due to various causes will be taken away. Death that spread from sinful Adam, the first man, will be no more. (Romans 5:12) What a monumental worldwide cause for tears will thus have vanished! And what reasons for gladness will exist when resurrections occur instead of deaths due to Adam, when his offspring have been rescued from the effects of his sin, and when perfect human health has replaced the many ills now plaguing mankind! Then, indeed, will “the former things have passed away.”

‘Mere wishful thinking!’ someone might exclaim. Not so, for after the apostle John beheld the “new heaven” and the “new earth” that will result in great blessings for mankind, he added: “And the One seated on the throne [Jehovah God] said: ‘Look! I am making all things new.’ Also, he says: ‘Write, because these words are faithful and true.’” (Revelation 21:5) Yes, we can believe them.

Truly, a different world is on the horizon. Its existence will not depend on human changes in “public policy” designed to rescue mankind from the dire consequences of “lost opportunities.” No, but all the good things promised in the Scriptures depend on the carrying out of the irresistible, ever-successful divine will.

Happiness That Can Be Yours

Who will enjoy all these blessings from God? For whom will there be unending reason for happiness? Why, for all who avail themselves of God’s provision for eternal life! This marvelous blessing has been made possible by Jehovah, the ‘God of love,’ through his Son, Jesus Christ.​—1 John 4:8, 9; John 3:16.

It is “good news” of such grand things that Jehovah’s Witnesses endeavor to share with all honest-hearted persons. That is why they witness from house to house in the manner of Jesus’ apostles and his other disciples. (Acts 5:42; 20:20) Doubtless you can see why the Witnesses are moved to declare the joyous kingdom message with zeal and gladness of heart. It is such marvelously good news! But what will you do about such heartening news? It is possible for you to enjoy endless life in happiness on a paradise earth under kingdom rule. However, this requires accurate knowledge of the Bible. So, if you have not yet done so, why not take advantage of your opportunities to discuss the Scriptures with Jehovah’s Witnesses? Jesus said that taking in accurate knowledge of his heavenly Father and himself “means everlasting life.”​—John 17:3.

A happy world is just ahead. But right now you can have sound reasons to be glad. Not all blessings from God or causes for gladness are to be realized only in the future. At the present time it is possible to ‘serve Jehovah with a joyful heart,’ and if we please God there is no doubt that ‘we can rejoice during all our days.’ Learn why by reading the articles on pages eight through nineteen.

“Their World Came to an End”

For Scriptural reasons Jehovah’s Witnesses are convinced that we have been living in the “last days” since the climactic year 1914. (2 Timothy 3:1-5; Matthew 24:3-14)a But many historians and analysts have also declared that 1914 was a turning point in human history. For instance, writing on “The Great War,” columnist Joe Chapman said in The Spectator of Hamilton, Ontario:

“How innocent, how mercifully ignorant, was the world of August, 1914!

“And yet, in many ways, the First World War, in a macabre sense at least, may well deserve the title ‘great’.

“It was the first war which could, with justification, be called a world conflict, involving nearly every important nation, with campaigns fought on many fronts, from Arctic wastes to steaming jungles.

“It was the first ‘total’ war, in which the whole nation became deeply involved, with the entire apparatus of civilian life becoming an integral part of the war effort.

“It was the first war in which technology played such an important part. No other war saw the introduction of so many new weapons used on a large scale: The machine-gun, the tank, the airplane, the submarine, poison gas, motor transport, telephones and other items, and artillery used on a truly grand scale. In short, it was the first of our modern wars.”

Columnist Chapman also remarked that “the war was a turning point in more than a military and technological sense. It was a social and cultural revolution and the old way of life was shattered utterly.” After reflecting on “the pre-1914 world” and the changes since then, he said regarding the impact of World War I on society:

“Not even the Second World War, to which the Nazis added new dimensions of brutality, and the atomic bomb slaughter seems to have had such an effect upon us as did the First World War.

“Somehow, we had become conditioned to the idea of total war and numbed by history, and not even Hiroshima or Dresden had the same impact as the awful carnage of the Western Front.

“Perhaps that is why the veterans of the earlier struggle seemed men set apart, much less able to adjust to the new world than those from 1945. Nothing in their lives had prepared them for the reality of the trenches and nothing since has equalled their experiences.”

Then, describing the innocence of those who went off to the war in 1914, Chapman commented:

“It was all a kind of a lark but the awakening would come soon enough and they and their world would never be the same again. Indeed, in more than one sense, their world came to an end sixty-five years ago; it took the rest of us a little longer to begin to understand.”

[Footnotes]

Serve Jehovah With a Joyful Heart

“Serve Jehovah with rejoicing. Come in before him with a joyful cry.”​—Psalm 100:2.

1, 2. What contrasting views of life are here cited?

“I HAVE messed up my life, and it’s too late to change it . . . When I go walking alone, I think back over my life, and I’m not happy with the way I made it.” So said an older woman who had gained fame as an actress and seemingly had good cause for happiness. But those words evidently did not originate in a truly joyful heart.

² By contrast, consider a certain man who has been waging a battle against paralysis for over thirty-seven years. Seemingly, such a person has little reason for joy. Yet he speaks of happiness and says that he has found something that “makes life genuinely rewarding and meaningful.”

3. (a) What personal experiences may cause us to wonder whether any human can have true joy? (b) How can joy be defined?

³ Most of us have not had to endure a long, painful struggle against infirmity. Nor have we become world famous as entertainers. Likely, we are common folk who must face the daily anxieties and hardships of life. Our experiences prove that “man, born of woman, is short-lived and glutted with agitation,” and doubtless we agree that “all creation keeps on groaning together and being in pain together.” (Job 14:1; Romans 8:22) For that matter, we may well wonder whether anyone on earth can have true joy​—that “emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something good or satisfying.” What is your thought? Is joy really attainable?

Can You Find It?

4. Who are among the millions experiencing true joy?

⁴ Millions do experience joy. The righteous heavenly angels joyfully ‘carry out God’s word.’ (Psalm 103:20) They have always served Jehovah God with true joy. Why, at earth’s founding, these “morning stars joyfully cried out together”! (Job 38:4-7) Surely the faithful angel that announced Jesus’ birth had a delightful mission, for he was declaring “good news of a great joy.”​—Luke 2:8-14.

5. As regards joy, what has been the experience of God’s only-begotten Son?

⁵ But what about “the only-begotten Son of God”? (John 3:18) Before becoming the man Jesus Christ he was Jehovah’s “master worker” in heaven. Was that service joyful? Indeed it was, for we are told: “I came to be the one he [Jehovah] was specially fond of day by day, I being glad before him all the time.” (Proverbs 8:22-31) While on earth as a man Jesus found delight in doing God’s will. (Psalm 40:6-8; Hebrews 10:5-10) Moreover, “for the joy that was set before him he endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2) Now, as “the happy and only Potentate” who soon will make divine judgments felt on earth, Jesus Christ truly serves Jehovah with a joyful heart.​—1 Timothy 6:13-16; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10.

6. Where can you find joy today?

⁶ Well, then, can you find joy today? Yes, and the afflicted man mentioned earlier indicates how in saying: “I have found it true that the greatest happiness is in serving God. This makes life genuinely rewarding and meaningful. Being a paralytic has not robbed me of the privileges and blessings of serving the Creator.” Genuine joy is found among those wholeheartedly devoted to Jehovah God. And why not? They declare “good news” from “the happy God”​—a heartening message about endless life amid grand blessings under the rule of the “kingdom of the heavens.” (Matthew 24:14; 1 Timothy 1:11; Matthew 5:3) So they have reason to “serve Jehovah with rejoicing,” to “come in before him with a joyful cry.”​—Psalm 100:2.

7, 8. (a) Despite their joy, why are persons devoted to Jehovah not always lighthearted? (b) Why is it that life’s hardships do not overwhelm Jehovah’s people?

⁷ This does not mean that a person devoted to God will always be lighthearted. In imperfect human society, Jehovah’s people do experience some sadness at times. (Romans 5:12) For instance, when Esau took Hittite women as wives, “they were a source of bitterness of spirit to [his God-fearing parents] Isaac and Rebekah.” (Genesis 26:34, 35) Moreover, by outright persecution and indirect “crafty acts,” Satan the Devil endeavors to destroy the Christian’s precious relationship with Jehovah. (Ephesians 6:11, The Kingdom Interlinear Translation of the Greek Scriptures) Hence, lovers of God can expect some hardships along life’s pathway. Yet these difficulties do not overwhelm Jehovah’s people. They draw “comfort from the Scriptures” and confidently pray for God’s spirit and aid in cultivating its fruit of joy. (Romans 15:4; Luke 11:13; Galatians 5:22, 23) Despite life’s trials, Christians can have “joy of holy spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 1:6) Especially do blessings from Jehovah contribute to that joy.

⁸ The blessing of Jehovah truly is enriching. (Proverbs 10:22) But, if you are a Christian, have you counted your blessings? They should make you “rejoice in Jehovah.” (Psalm 32:11) Consider but a few of your blessings and you will find ample reason to serve Jehovah with a joyful heart.

Joyous Privileges Without Equal

9. What does it mean to know Jehovah, and what bearing does this have on joy?

⁹ Knowing and serving Jehovah are blessings beyond compare. Through the prophet Jeremiah, God said: “Let the one bragging about himself brag about himself because of this very thing, the having of insight and the having of knowledge of me, that I am Jehovah, the One exercising loving-kindness, justice and righteousness in the earth.” (Jeremiah 9:24) Naturally, just possessing knowledge of the divine name is not enough. Knowing Jehovah means being aware of his qualities, dealings, attitudes and purposes. It means obeying him, recognizing and submitting to his authority. (1 John 5:3) Earnest study of the Scriptures and meditation on the words and actions of God’s Son, who is in absolute harmony with his Father, make it possible to have a close personal relationship with God. (John 1:18; 14:9-11) Those who thus know Jehovah are joyful indeed. In fact, “to the man that is good before him he [Jehovah] has given wisdom and knowledge and rejoicing.”​—Ecclesiastes 2:26.

10. What is the most important and satisfying way in which human life can be used?

¹⁰ The inestimable privilege of rendering “sacred service” to the true God is another blessing enjoyed by Jehovah’s Witnesses. No human could use life in a more important or satisfying way. Surely, Zechariah (who was the father of John the Baptizer) expressed matters well in blessing Jehovah for granting His people “the privilege of fearlessly rendering sacred service to him with loyalty and righteousness” all their days.​—Luke 1:67-79; compare Romans 12:1; Revelation 7:9, 13-15.

11. What joy-producing privilege is associated with rendering God “sacred service”?

¹¹ The privilege of bearing Jehovah’s name as his witnesses is associated with that of rendering God “sacred service.” (Isaiah 43:10-12) That certainly should promote joy, even as Jeremiah said: “Your word becomes to me the exultation and the rejoicing of my heart; for your name has been called upon me, O Jehovah God of armies.”​—Jeremiah 15:16.

12. If we are discouraged, reflecting on what contrasts may lift our spirits?

¹² If you are serving God but occasionally experience discouragement, brief reflection on some contrasts may lift your spirits. For instance, when we consider that the wicked angels are “reserved with eternal bonds under dense darkness” for God’s adverse judgment, the lot of the righteous angels in Jehovah’s service stands out as being all the more joyous. (Jude 6) And what a contrast exists between Jesus’ joyful position and that of Satan the Devil, who faces eternal destruction! (Revelation 20:10, 14) Then, too, Jehovah’s compassionate care and blessings surely make it easy to see “the distinction between a righteous one and a wicked one, between one serving God and one who has not served him.” (Malachi 3:17, 18) However, consider yet other blessings that provide sound reasons for serving Jehovah with a joyful heart.

True Freedom and Spiritual Light

13, 14. Religiously speaking, what true freedom and spiritual light do Jehovah’s servants enjoy?

¹³ Liberation from “Babylon the Great,” the world empire of false religion, surely is another blessing that promotes joy. True Christians are happy that they will not ‘share in her sins and receive part of her plagues.’ (Revelation 18:2, 4) Additionally, Jehovah’s servants enjoy freedom from the fears and fables of false religion. “You will know the truth,” said Jesus, “and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32) That true freedom seems all the more precious when we reflect on the slavery of those in spiritual darkness.

¹⁴ For instance, unlike so many adherents of false religion, worshipers of Jehovah do not bow and pray before images that can neither speak, see, hear, smell, feel nor walk. (Psalm 115:4-8) Nor do spiritually free and enlightened Christians fear the dead, as do so many of earth’s inhabitants. The false religious teaching that man has an immortal soul fosters this dread that the deceased may return to haunt or plague the living. But spiritual light from God has dispelled such fears, for true Christians know that the dead “are conscious of nothing at all.” (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) How much more wholesome it is to realize that dead loved ones in God’s memory will experience a resurrection! (John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15) Surely, Jehovah’s devoted witnesses can rejoice that the heavenly Father whom they serve in unison has, by his holy spirit, revealed to them “the deep things of God.” (1 Corinthians 2:10) Yes, he has granted his people joy-producing spiritual light and truth.​—Psalm 43:3.

The Joy of Aiding Others

15, 16. (a) What happened when Jesus’ early disciples ‘let their light shine’? (b) Christians today experience what in disciple making?

¹⁵ Reflecting spiritual light is also a blessing. Jesus told his followers: “You are the light of the world. . . . Let your light shine before men, that they may see your fine works and give glory to your Father who is in the heavens.” (Matthew 5:14-16) What happened as those early disciples ‘let their light shine’ by word and deed? Others benefited, but such activity also brought joy to Christ’s followers themselves. (Luke 10:1, 17-20; Acts 8:4-8) Certainly, those disciple makers were serving Jehovah with a joyful heart.​—Matthew 28:19, 20.

¹⁶ Christians experience similar joy today in the work of proclaiming the kingdom message. Especially is this true with regard to persons they aid in gaining a knowledge of God’s truth. The apostle Paul had such joy, for he said that the Philippians he had helped were his “joy and crown.” (Philippians 4:1) Respecting those he had aided at Thessalonica, the apostle wrote: “What is our hope or joy or crown of exultation​—why, is it not in fact you?​—before our Lord Jesus at his presence? You certainly are our glory and joy.” (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20) Yes, Paul​—just like Christians today—​found joy in those he had assisted spiritually. Are you exerting yourself in Jehovah’s service and experiencing such joy?

17. Why, despite limited results in some areas, do Jehovah’s Witnesses find joy in their disciple-making work?

¹⁷ Despite limited results when witnessing in some areas today, Jehovah’s Witnesses find joy in knowing that they are pleasing and praising their God. That is true even if certain householders are not happy to see the Witnesses at their doors. Jehovah’s servants are not discouraged by this, for they realize that serving God is the finest privilege anyone on earth can enjoy.

Even Persecution Brings Joy

18. Why can Christians be joyful even though suffering persecution?

¹⁸ Christians serve Jehovah with a joyful heart even though they often suffer persecution. Jesus pronounced happy those persecuted for his sake, and the apostle Peter stated: “Go on rejoicing forasmuch as you are sharers in the sufferings of the Christ, that you may rejoice and be overjoyed also during the revelation of his glory. If you are being reproached for the name of Christ, you are happy.” Why? “Because,” says Peter, “the spirit of glory, even the spirit of God, is resting upon you.” (1 Peter 4:13, 14; Matthew 5:11, 12) Experiencing persecution for being a Christian may not seem to be a blessing. But if you are enduring such suffering you have evidence of God’s spirit and approval​—and, surely, that promotes joy.

19. How did one victim of Nazi persecution express himself?

¹⁹ Because of having God’s holy spirit and the strength that Jehovah imparts, persecuted Christians can maintain their joy under extreme circumstances. (Philippians 4:13) Some years ago, from a Nazi concentration camp, a young Witness unjustly sentenced to death wrote his parents: “It is already past midnight. I still have time to change my mind. Ah! could I be happy again in this world after I had denied our Lord? Surely not! But now you have the assurance that I leave this world in happiness and peace.” Yes, persecuted Christians do serve Jehovah with a joyful heart.

Other Reasons for Joy

20. How is joy affected by associating with fellow believers?

²⁰ In spite of the persecution endured by Jehovah’s Witnesses, they experience true joy in association with their fellow believers. What a blessing! In a world filled with dishonesty, lies and wrongdoing, how good it is to have honest, truthful, upright associates who have put on the “new personality”! (Colossians 3:8-11) Then, too, there is deep satisfaction in knowing that one’s own conduct makes Jehovah’s heart rejoice.​—Proverbs 27:11.

21. What are some ways to promote the interests of true worship joyfully?

²¹ It is also a blessing to promote the interests of true worship joyfully, perhaps by sharing in the construction, maintenance and support of a Christian meeting place. (Exodus 36:1-7; 2 Kings 12:4-15) Certainly, such efforts bring a person joy of heart. And how can anyone fully evaluate the blessings and joys of regularly meeting with Jehovah’s people, as well as cooperating with them in God-given witnessing work?​—Psalm 122:1; 1 Corinthians 3:5-9.

22. Faithfulness in performing godly deeds results in what?

²² Faithfulness in performing godly deeds also results in a rich blessing​—the prospect of salvation and a joyous future in God’s promised new system of things. (2 Peter 3:11-13) What a difference there is between the hope-filled servants of Jehovah and persons ‘who have no hope and are without God in the world’! (Ephesians 2:11, 12) Surely, with David, Jehovah’s people today can say to God: “As for me, in your loving-kindness I have trusted; let my heart be joyful in your salvation.” (Psalm 13:5) Indeed, when Christians count their blessings, they find many reasons to serve Jehovah with a joyful heart.

Continue to “Serve Jehovah With Rejoicing”

23. Rather than allowing growing pressures to dominate our thinking, what should we do?

²³ Although witnesses of Jehovah now enjoy many blessings, they cannot escape the growing pressures from this old system of things. These must be met courageously at work, in school and elsewhere, and such factors can be discouraging. But, rather than letting these disagreeable things dominate our thinking and disturb us constantly, we are wise to shift our thoughts to positive, upbuilding matters. Yes, instead of being discouraged or sorrowful, let us be “zealous for fine works” and reflect on our blessings as Jehovah’s servants. (Titus 2:14) Then we will be cheerful, as though we were enjoying a continual feast. As Proverbs 15:15 puts it: “All the days of the afflicted one are bad; but the one that is good at heart has a feast constantly.”

24. (a) How can your life have a rewarding purpose? (b) What question appropriately is raised?

²⁴ Admittedly, many people are not happy with their lot in life. But if you love and obey God, zealously persevering in his service, your life has a rewarding purpose. Moreover, with Jehovah’s help, life’s problems and pressures can be endured successfully. So be of good courage and continue to cherish the blessings God bestows upon you as you serve Jehovah with a joyful heart. (Psalm 100:2) But what is required to continue rejoicing in the worship of Jehovah?

Do you recall these points?

□ Why are Jehovah’s people not overwhelmed by life’s hardships?

□ What does it mean to know Jehovah, and what bearing does this have on joy?

□ Disciple making has what relationship to joy?

□ How can we joyfully promote true worship?

[Blurb on page 11]

Those enjoying spiritual light from Jehovah do not fear the dead. Instead, they look forward to the resurrection of persons who are in God’s memory

We Can “Rejoice During All Our Days”

“Satisfy us in the morning with your loving-kindness, that we may cry out joyfully and may rejoice during all our days.”​—Psalm 90:14.

1. How does Jehovah show that he wants his people to be happy?

JEHOVAH GOD wants his people to be happy. He knows that heartfelt joy is vital for contented, healthy existence. (Proverbs 17:22) Accordingly, as a God of loving-kindness, Jehovah provides guidance that will foster joyous feelings if it is applied in life.

2. Why can genuine Christians be confident about praying for joy?

² Faced with the stresses of living in an ungodly system of things, Jehovah’s Witnesses, as genuine Christians, can pray for joy. It is a fruit of God’s holy spirit, and he grants that spirit to his faithful dedicated people who ask for it. (Luke 11:13; Galatians 5:22, 23) They can also well express sentiments similar to these, prayerfully uttered by God’s prophet Moses: “Satisfy us in the morning with your loving-kindness, that we may cry out joyfully and may rejoice during all our days.” (Psalm 90:14) Those trusting in Jehovah can be confident that he will answer such earnest petitions.​—1 John 5:13-15.

3. If we are to “rejoice during all our days,” what two basic factors must be observed?

³ Yet, in addition to prayer two basic factors must be remembered if we are to “rejoice during all our days.” These were highlighted when God’s people of ancient times were told that maledictions would befall them if they did not “listen to the voice of Jehovah . . . by keeping his commandments,” and if they did not “serve Jehovah . . . with rejoicing and joy of heart.” (Deuteronomy 28:45-47) Hence, if we are to be happy all our life, we must (1) obey Jehovah and (2) serve him joyfully.

4. (a) What does Jehovah provide so that his people may serve him with a joyful heart? (b) What wise sayings may we consider, resulting in what?

⁴ Jehovah provides both the incentive and the help his people need to serve him with a joyful heart. Moreover, he graciously provides reliable guidelines that promote joy. By way of example, observe how wise sayings embodied in certain portions of the Bible book of Proverbs can produce deep joy. Indeed, if applied in life such counsel can cause us to “rejoice during all our days.”

Joy Within the Family

5. (a) What does Jehovah expect of parents? (b) As regards obedience, what effect can children have within a family?

⁵ To achieve and maintain family happiness, it is necessary to obey God, to be sensitive to counsel found in his Word. For instance, Jehovah expects parents to do their best in training their children. In this the father is to take the lead, but the mother should share in it actively. (Proverbs 22:6; 31:1) And what of the children? Well, a child “that holds a father in derision and that despises obedience to a mother” certainly will not fare well and will bring grief, not joy, to his or her parents. (Proverbs 30:17; 17:21) On the other hand, wise sons and daughters who obediently accept the discipline given by godly parents and live in harmony with Scriptural principles bring joy and honor to a family.​—Proverbs 10:1; 15:20; 23:15, 16.

6, 7. (a) What counsel is given at Proverbs 23:22-25, and what results when it is followed? (b) The counsel to ‘buy truth and not sell it’ means what?

⁶ Godly parents who raise their children in a way that moves them to pursue a righteous course have reason for real joy. Concerning this we are told in the Scriptures: “Listen to your father who caused your birth, and do not despise your mother just because she has grown old. Buy truth itself and do not sell it​—wisdom and discipline and understanding. The father of a righteous one will without fail be joyful; the one becoming father to a wise one will also rejoice in him. Your father and your mother will rejoice, and she that gave birth to you will be joyful.”​—Proverbs 23:22-25.

⁷ A wise child will heed his Christian father’s spiritual instruction and will not ignore what his godly mother says, even though she may have grown old. After all, a responsible adult can still learn something from his or her aged parents. The counsel to ‘buy truth and not sell it’ clearly means sticking to true principles as a guide in life. A righteously disposed child will not give up truth for pleasures, riches or honor. And surely a family in which all members cling to Jehovah will have abiding joy.​—Deuteronomy 10:20, 21.

Maintaining Joy Despite Wrongdoers

8, 9. As shown at Proverbs 2:10-14, how can using godly wisdom protect us from wrongdoers?

⁸ Obedience to Jehovah’s counsel helps us to maintain joy under various circumstances. For example, by using godly wisdom, we can find protection from wrongdoers. The Scriptures state: “When wisdom enters into your heart and knowledge itself becomes pleasant to your very soul, thinking ability itself will keep guard over you, discernment itself will safeguard you, to deliver you from the bad way, from the man speaking perverse things, from those leaving the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness, from those who are rejoicing in doing bad, who are joyful in the perverse things of badness.”​—Proverbs 2:10-14.

⁹ Jehovah’s approval rests upon those who cherish true wisdom and let their hearts be influenced by it. They wisely avoid associating with anyone “speaking perverse things,” that is, things contrary to what is true and right. Proper thinking ability and true discernment furnish protection against those who reject godly wisdom, find pleasure in evil deeds and seek to corrupt others.​—Compare Proverbs 4:16.

10. How does a bad man’s transgression ensnare him?

¹⁰ The wrongdoer may ‘rejoice in doing bad,’ but who has real joy? Another proverb answers: “In the transgression of a bad man there is a snare, but he that is righteous cries out joyfully and is glad.” (Proverbs 29:6) Yes, a bad man’s transgression ensnares him. One sin may lead to another, and woes may come upon him unexpectedly. For example, he may plot the undoing of another, only to have his scheme boomerang on him. In ancient Israel, a false witness might seek the death of an innocent person by testifying against him falsely. But the schemer himself would be put to death if his plot was uncovered.​—Deuteronomy 19:16-21.

11. Why can the righteously inclined person ‘cry out joyfully’?

¹¹ How much better the lot of the righteous one! He neither schemes against his neighbor nor practices sin. Hence, he avoids being ensnared by transgression and does not suffer the troubles that attend wrongdoing or the penalty that results from being discovered as a scheming wrongdoer. So the righteously inclined person “cries out joyfully and is glad.” For one thing, he is not plagued by a guilty conscience. Moreover, he enjoys God’s favor, “for the devious person is a detestable thing to Jehovah, but His intimacy is with the upright ones.”​—Proverbs 3:32.

Rejoice When a Foe Fares Badly?

12. How should a Christian react if a foe fares badly? Why?

¹² Yet, how should a Christian react if a foe happens to fare badly? “When your enemy falls,” says another proverb, “do not rejoice; and when he is caused to stumble, may your heart not be joyful.” Why? “That Jehovah may not see and it be bad in his eyes and he certainly turn back his anger from against him.” (Proverbs 24:17, 18) This rules out what might be termed malicious joy when an enemy meets with some disaster. Since it would be wrong to wish calamity upon an enemy merely for personal satisfaction, an individual who did thus rejoice would have to account to Jehovah for his sin. For that matter, God can read the heart and therefore knows if we are secretly rejoicing over another person’s calamity. So, that wrong spirit, though concealed from fellow humans, is evident to Jehovah, who says: “Vengeance is mine, and retribution.” (Deuteronomy 32:35; Hebrews 10:30) Accordingly, God may punish the gloating one in some way.​—Compare Proverbs 17:5.

13. What is the meaning of Proverbs 11:10?

¹³ On the other hand, we are told: “Because of the goodness of the righteous ones a town is elated, but when the wicked ones perish there is a joyful cry.” (Proverbs 11:10) How is this to be understood? Well, righteous people generally are beloved and they make their neighbors happy. But no one is fond of “wicked ones.” A cruel person brings ostracism upon himself. (Proverbs 11:17) Additionally, when the wicked die they are not mourned by people in general, and certainly there would be no sorrow when Jehovah destroys these wrongdoers. Rather, there would be joy because they had been removed from the scene. Are we conducting ourselves in a way that contributes to the joy or ‘elation’ of others?

The Joyful Heart a Blessing

14. As discussed so far, how does obeying Jehovah enable us to “rejoice during all our days”?

¹⁴ Obeying Jehovah enables us to “rejoice during all our days.” As already noted, when divine counsel is applied in life the parent-child relationship is a happy one. Accepting God’s guidance protects us from the bad influence of wrongdoers and makes us joyful. Furthermore, adhering to Jehovah’s instructions keeps us from developing a wrong attitude toward any misfortunes of the wicked, and thus we are able to maintain joy. Yes, by obeying Jehovah God we will have a joyful heart. This in itself is a blessing.

15. Rather than allowing “anxious care” to cause our heart to “bow down” with sadness, what should we do, and why?

¹⁵ Wise King Solomon said: “A joyful heart has a good effect on the countenance, but because of the pain of the heart there is a stricken spirit.” (Proverbs 15:13) Indeed, the emotions of joy and sorrow are reflected in a person’s countenance. Of course, there are many anxieties in life and these could make us very sad. “Anxious care in the heart of a man is what will cause it to bow down,” says another proverb, “but the good word is what makes it rejoice.” (Proverbs 12:25) So rather than permitting “anxious care” to cause our hearts to “bow down” with sadness, how wise it is to draw close to Jehovah by meditating on that storehouse of good things, his inspired Word! Surely, this can bring joy back into a sad but righteous heart.

16. (a) How does a good report ‘make the bones fat’? (b) Although ‘a joyful heart is good medicine,’ how should we view constant mirth?

¹⁶ Solomon also said: “The brightness of the eyes makes the heart rejoice; a report that is good makes the bones fat.” (Proverbs 15:30) Good news “makes the bones fat,” that is, fills them with marrow. Thus the whole body is invigorated, and a joy-filled heart is reflected when the eyes shine brightly. Whereas mental depression, or a ‘stricken spirit,’ has a bad effect physically, ‘a joyful heart is good medicine.’ (Proverbs 17:22; compare The Amplified Bible.) Obviously, though, a heart should not constantly be given over to senseless mirth, for Solomon “said to laughter: ‘Insanity!’ and to rejoicing: ‘What is this doing?’” (Ecclesiastes 2:2) However, a person certainly is benefited by a heart that rejoices in doing God’s will.

17, 18. (a) Why can a loyal friend be likened to ‘oil and incense that make the heart rejoice’? (b) How has Jesus Christ been a straight-talking heavenly Friend? (c) What personal question is raised?

¹⁷ Pointing to something else that results in joy, another proverb says: “Oil and incense are what make the heart rejoice, also the sweetness of one’s companion due to the counsel of the soul.” (Proverbs 27:9) Just as oil is soothing and incense gives pleasure because of its sweet scent, a loyal friend who provides counsel with the aim of being helpful makes the recipient’s heart rejoice. There is sweetness in such friendship, for those who talk in a frank way can help each other to improve, to make corrections and to strengthen themselves in areas of life wherein they are weak. Indeed, having a good friend who thinks and talks straight can be a cause of joy.

¹⁸ The glorified Jesus Christ is a straight-talking heavenly Friend who directed messages to the seven congregations mentioned in Revelation, chapters two and three. Commendation was offered when appropriate, but so was admonition. For instance, the congregation at Ephesus no longer had the fervor of Christian love for Jehovah that it had at its beginning. But Jesus sought to rekindle that love. (Revelation 2:1-7) Any Ephesian Christian who prayerfully considered the counsel of this heavenly Friend and took corrective measures could continue serving Jehovah with a joyful heart. Do you personally see where you need to take some remedial steps so as to prove your love for God by improved service to Jehovah?

Rejoicing in “the Holy Work”

19. Why should every person dedicated to Jehovah regularly share the “good news” with others?

¹⁹ Another question: Are you wholeheartedly, regularly and joyfully “engaging in the holy work of the good news of God”? (Romans 15:16) No other present-day activity on earth eclipses it. Why, it is a chief reason for the very existence of the Christian congregation! (Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20) So every person dedicated to Jehovah should be sharing the “good news” with others on a regular basis. And active kingdom proclaimers often have such rewarding experiences and blessings in Jehovah’s service that they are moved to “cry out joyfully.”​—Psalm 90:14; Malachi 3:10.

20. Frequently, how have zealous congregation publishers having weighty Scriptural responsibilities increased their joy in Jehovah’s service?

²⁰ Zealous congregation publishers having weighty Scriptural responsibilities frequently increase their joy by improving the quality of their service to Jehovah. Moreover, some Christian families have found real satisfaction in serving where the need for kingdom proclaimers is great. Others have enjoyed full-time witnessing work during certain months of the year, while still others have been able to share regularly in the full-time ministry. With such earnest, wholehearted efforts Jehovah is well pleased.​—Mark 12:29, 30.

21. Graduates of the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead have what cause for rejoicing?

²¹ Many Christian men and women have graduated from the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead, and they rejoice in expending their energies serving Jehovah in various parts of the earth. They are delighted to be full-time ministers who can help many to learn about Jehovah God and his wonderful purposes. For instance, after spending over two decades as a missionary in tropical West Africa, one of them wrote: “Do I feel that it is time to quit and let the younger ones take over? No, seeing the blessings and the growth of Jehovah’s organization makes me feel as did Caleb, after being preserved for more than forty-five years, through the wilderness sojourn and into the Promised Land. He said: ‘Yet I am today as strong as on the day of Moses’ sending me out. As my power was then, so my power is now.’ (Joshua 14:11) Despite the inconveniences and hardships, these past years have been excellent training and preparation for the future.”

22. What is Bethel service, and how did one privileged woman express herself?

²² Another joyous privilege, open to those who qualify, is serving at Bethel. This involves work directly associated with the publishing of Bible literature and the advancement of kingdom interests. Those thus privileged serve either as part of the Watch Tower Society’s Bethel staffs in New York State, or with such families at branch office locations worldwide. One woman, who began her full-time service in Switzerland in January 1924 and now serves as a member of the Bethel family in the Federal Republic of Germany, wrote: “I wish to thank Jehovah for all his goodness toward me, letting me spend a happy and rich life filled with wonderful opportunities in his service.” Yes, she rejoices in Jehovah’s service.

23. How can you prove Scripturally that those putting God’s service first in life have reason to rejoice?

²³ Indeed, those who have put God’s service first in life always have had reason to rejoice. True, their lives have not been totally free of the problems common to humans. But Jehovah has supported them during their trials. (1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Corinthians 4:8, 9) They have fared well because ‘the joy of Jehovah is their stronghold.’ (Nehemiah 8:10) Consider: Moses ‘chose to be ill-treated with the people of God’ and was blessed with grand privileges. (Hebrews 11:23-29) The Moabitess Ruth abandoned her people and her gods, choosing to serve Jehovah, and was rewarded by becoming an ancestress of Jesus Christ. (Ruth 1:14-17; 4:13-17; Matthew 1:1, 5) Because of their concern with true worship and their regularity at the temple, both reverent elderly Simeon and faithful aged Anna had the joy of seeing the infant Jesus there.​—Luke 2:25-38.

24. On what basis can we “rejoice during all our days”?

²⁴ So we can be confident that grand privileges and blessings will be our lot if we put Jehovah’s worship and service first in life. (Matthew 6:33) And even if hardships are encountered while doing this, we know that Jehovah “makes all his works cooperate together for the good of those who love God.” (Romans 8:28) May we, therefore, be resolved to obey our heavenly Father and serve him with a joyful heart. Surely, if we have complete love for Jehovah, we have sound reasons to ‘cry out joyfully and rejoice during all our days.’​—Psalm 90:14.

Can You Remember?

□ If we are to “rejoice during all our days,” what two basic factors must be remembered?

□ What must parents and children do if there is to be joy within the family?

□ How can Christians maintain joy despite the actions of wrongdoers?

□ How is a joyful heart a blessing?

□ What are some of the joyous privileges in Jehovah’s service, and so what should we be resolved to do?

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For lasting family happiness, parents and children must follow the counsel found in God’s Word

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Unhappiness can be replaced by joy if we faithfully do Jehovah’s will

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Jehovah’s faithful servants of the past and present have had reason to ‘rejoice during all their days’

Champions of Kingdom Truth Assemble

JEHOVAH’S people are champions of kingdom truth. In it they take great delight. Moreover, they always rejoice when they are invited to some special gathering sponsored by the Watch Tower Society, for they know that it will be a season of fellowship, encouragement and sound counsel. The “Kingdom Truth” District Conventions of 1982 are surely bearing this out.

Kingdom Truth Emphasized

While assembling and getting settled for the Thursday afternoon opening session, expectation grew as the delegates looked over the printed program and observed the many vital topics that would be discussed. In fact, that entire afternoon “Truth” was to be highlighted​—not just truth in general but, rather, “Kingdom Truth,” embodying the purposes of Jehovah God with respect to man, the earth, the entire universe and His own grand Name.

So emphasis was laid on knowing the truth and acting in full harmony with that knowledge. True, it is necessary to gain an accurate knowledge of the elementary teachings of the Bible, but the aim is to enable Jehovah’s worshipers to teach these effectively to people encountered in the house-to-house preaching work. How important, too, to appreciate that Jehovah is the one God of truth, the very source of all truth, and that he is opposed by wicked invisible enemies who use many subtle tactics to turn men away from God and righteousness! The audience particularly appreciated learning about the stealthy, gradual methods employed by the Devil and his agents as they seek to erode our faith.

How to fight against those wicked spirits and win received due attention on the program. We must all realize that the enemy seeks to promote the spirit of selfish independence, me-ism, and also to entrap us in sexual immorality. We need to know and love God and have hatred for things he hates. If we bear his name, then we certainly will not want to bring reproach upon him or upon his congregation of loyal witnesses. Above all, we need to draw upon his strength through earnest prayer, and we need to keep close to his protective visible organization.

The keynote address of the convention pointed up the vital issue upon which each person must sooner or later take his stand. The choice is either Satan, his demon hosts and all his worldly organizations with their propaganda or Jehovah the Almighty Sovereign and his grand promises that will be fulfilled by his kingdom. The settlement of that issue is due shortly. There is no middle ground. Immediate and positive action can assure us of protection and blessings from Jehovah.

Ministers of Kingdom Truth

That was the theme of the program for Friday, and it surely helped each one to realize that Jehovah’s will is for us to be ministers of his kingdom, declaring that kingdom from house to house and thus qualifying still others to join us in such a privileged ministry. In view of the urgency of the time in which we live, it behooves all of us to seek ways and means of increasing our share in this God-given service, whether as part-time or as full-time publishers. Some demonstrations showed how earnest consideration can be given to the need for enlarging our “sacred service” as individuals and family groups.​—Romans 12:1.

During this afternoon all of Jehovah’s ministers were warned that the enemies to be on guard against are not only those obvious ones ‘on the outside’ but those who profess to be of us yet who craftily seek to weaken our faith and service. Said the speaker: “These convey the thought that, since Jehovah is such a loving God, all that he wants us to do is to be good persons, care for others in a physical way and love our neighbors.” Viewpoints like these can be dangerous, for they do not take into account the command laid upon each one of Christ’s followers, namely: “Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations.”​—Matthew 28:19.

Some question the need for an organization and claim that all a person needs to do is read the Bible for himself. The rank inconsistency of this position is to be observed when such ones proceed to set up their own organization and follow their own prescribed course of study, based on human wisdom.

When we are faced with such negative and opposing arguments, the counsel of the Holy Scriptures is clear: Let them be. Avoid them. Move ahead with your precious ministry. (Matthew 15:14; Romans 16:17, 18) To dispute publicly with those causing divisions would be displaying a lack of good judgment. Each of us should do his part in helping the household of faith to keep the right attitude toward those who would defame Jehovah, his organization and his organized people. The kingdom proclamation will be completed successfully, for Christ Jesus promised to be with his servants “all the days until the conclusion of the system of things.”​—Matthew 28:20.

The drama presented on Friday left few persons dry-eyed. How they were moved by observing the role that well-instructed children can have in helping uninterested ones to revise their thinking and recognize the value of accepting and following God’s counsel!

It was most appropriate that after all this fine coverage of “Ministers of Kingdom Truth” we had the opportunity to spend some time in house-to-house preaching early that evening. Many publishers later reported with joy on the good reception that was accorded them by householders. As one publisher said: “It was a satisfying conclusion of a day spent in considering our glorious ministry.”

Living by Principles of Truth

That was the theme of Saturday’s program, a theme that stressed the practical application of the things we were learning at this convention. As champions of kingdom truth, we must live by the principles of that truth.

Following the consideration of the text for the day, we enjoyed a symposium by three speakers setting forth God’s requirements for young and old, children and parents. Conducting the affairs of the family in harmony with Jehovah’s principles was seen to be the way of success. Love, a cardinal attribute of true Christians, makes it possible for children and parents to cooperate harmoniously.​—John 13:34, 35.

By discourses and demonstrations we received timely reminders of the danger of permissiveness. It has opened the door to many problems and difficulties and must be met with firm adherence to Bible principles. Hence, there has to be a tightening up on many aspects of our Christian lives. While this places restrictions on us, it was seen that in this way many very trying situations were either avoided or handled successfully.

One subject that received special attention was that of music. We learned that music can exalt the spirits or it can debase. It has been used to inculcate Satanism and immorality. The Christian, therefore, must be just as careful about what he listens to as he is regarding what he watches on the TV screen.

Saturday’s sessions were concluded by the exciting talk “The Truth That Leads to an Earthly Paradise.” The speaker reminded us of the fact that Christ Jesus pointed to the kingdom and an earthly paradise. For instance, Christ testified before Pilate that He was indeed a king and was sent forth to bear witness to that truth. Then, after the wrongdoer hanging on a stake alongside him said, “Jesus, remember me when you get into your kingdom,” Jesus replied: “Truly I tell you today, You will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:42, 43; John 18:36, 37) And to those who love God and righteousness today, how real is the hope of living forever in the earthly paradise!

Holding Fast to Prophetic Truth

An early speaker on the program Sunday morning pointed out that today we are faced with a condition similar to that which faced Christians in the first century. There were those who wanted to go back to beggarly, elementary things involving philosophy of men and arguments over words​—things not upbuilding nor having to do with the gaining of salvation. (Galatians 4:9) The present-day dangers include allowing a desire for more than the necessities of life to take hold and absorb our thoughts and our time; seeking worldly entertainment, often unclean and also time-consuming; toying with sexual immorality with its many perils. Everlasting life depends on our holding fast to the truth and the way of the truth. Some long-time active champions of kingdom truth were interviewed for the benefit of all present. Their experiences showed that it is possible to remain loyal to Jehovah and his principles even in the face of trials and difficulties.

Next came the discourse entitled “Flocking Together in Battle Line,” drawing upon the scripture at 1 Chronicles 12:38. As the speaker dwelt on the fact that Christians are in a warfare and are expected to prove faithful as soldiers of Jesus Christ, enduring hardship and maintaining unity in the ranks, a clear battle call was sounded out. Since our enrollment in the Lord’s army, particularly from the time of our dedication and baptism, every other activity of life should be subordinated to our service of Jehovah’s great Field Commander, Jesus Christ. Like our Leader and Commander we must keep ever in mind that the sacred name of our God and Maker is involved in this war.

Since ours is a spiritual warfare, our weapons also are spiritual but “powerful by God for overturning strongly entrenched things,” such as vain human philosophies, things contrary to the Word of truth, crafty teachings of demons and appeals to put our personal comfort and well-being ahead of the service of Jehovah. (2 Corinthians 10:4) As the speaker wisely observed: “Surely we cannot doubt that Jehovah’s Field Marshal is fully equal to the job of caring for those he has enrolled in his army! If we are burdened and anxious about material needs, is it not an urgent reminder to cast our burdens upon Jehovah and Christ?” Our flocking together in battle line means that we are closely cooperating with the one visible organization that Jehovah is using today. Each one of us must be well equipped and active in supporting the spiritual campaign as directed by the Leader, Christ.

The morning program was then concluded with another striking drama. It portrayed the fearless service of the prophet Jeremiah as he proclaimed over many years a message that was unpopular with the vast majority of his contemporaries, including the king, the princes and the false prophets. As we witnessed Jeremiah unflinchingly facing threats and violence while encouraging others to remain loyal to Jehovah, was it not a powerful reminder that Jehovah’s people today are called upon to persist faithfully in proclaiming to this whole world under Satan the message of Jehovah’s fast-approaching judgments, a message that is truly unpopular? However, we have the joy of knowing that, as a result of our loyal service, multitudes will be saved from a doomed generation and will experience safety and survival into God’s new system of things.

The public lecture on the subject “The Truth That Can Set You Free” was scheduled early in the afternoon. A large, expectant audience was on hand as the speaker marshaled fact after fact to demonstrate that this world’s rulers and prominent men can abolish neither poverty, violence nor insecurity. He went on to point out from the Holy Scriptures that Jehovah, the Omnipotent God, has promised, and is well able to do, all of this and much more. Jehovah will remove all causes for mourning and tears, also abolishing the sickness, pain and death resulting from our inheritance from sinner Adam. More than that, He will cause the return from death of multitudes who will be given opportunity for life everlasting on a paradisaic earth.

Next, there was a brief review of the satisfying spiritual banquet that Jehovah had spread for us at this “Kingdom Truth” District Convention. Surely, our cup of blessing from Jehovah was overflowing! And with what result? We were ready then for the concluding talk that urged all of us to continue on with the proclamation of kingdom truth as long as Jehovah keeps the way open. We know we are on the right track. Our ranks are cleansed of faultfinders, complainers and independent ones. Now Jehovah is blessing us with increase, as we can observe from the reports coming in from around the world. More publishers are devoting more hours to the field ministry. Many more are engaging in auxiliary and full-time pioneer activity. Bible studies conducted in the homes of newly interested ones have increased dramatically. There is no doubt about the clear direction given us by Jehovah’s spirit and his organization.

As we departed from the convention sites and set out for our home congregations, were we not overwhelmed with the conviction that Jehovah and his King, Christ Jesus, have been with us? Are we not convinced that they have supplied us generously so that we are well equipped to move forward unitedly with the proclamation of the good news as champions of kingdom truth? All praise and glory to the God who is abundant in righteousness and truth!

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Christian children can persuade!

True! God’s name is Jehovah

A former opposer points out the Name

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Jeremiah beaten by opposers

. . . in the stocks

. . . rescued from the miry pit

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Ordination of ministers by baptism

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Special seating arrangements for older ones

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Convenient food service

Insight on the News

Serving Two Masters

“Chaplains are at the corner between God and the Army,” said a civilian employee during the 207th anniversary of the US Army Chaplain Corps, as reported in The New York Times. The problem, of course, is which way to turn. Or, in the words of one army chaplain: “What we’re dealing with is a situation in which we have two professions and we have to remind ourselves to pay attention to both.”

In Vietnam, says the report, there were chaplains who “supported the war and at least one who crossed the line between man of peace and combatant.” A chaplain who took part in combat said privately: “I didn’t take an oath to God that I would never shoot anybody.” Then he added: “It was the only way I could be with my troops. I make choices and pray to God it’s the right thing.”

Another chaplain who served in Vietnam said: “I’ve never found the chaplaincy corps having the guts to speak out. We should be asking ourselves, ‘Are we willing to risk telling the U.S. Government and the Army that the chaplaincy corps should be about things ethical and things pastoral?’” Many of them seriously question whether they can live up to their motto, Pro Deo et patria (For God and country).

Thus, the chaplains have put themselves in a position that one chaplain describes as “sheep in wolves’ clothing.” And the dilemma facing them may remind some Bible readers of Jesus Christ’s words: “No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other.”​—Matthew 6:24.

Miracle or Fraud?

When a priest unlocked the doors of the Basilica of Saint John of God in Granada, Spain, one morning, he found four lines of blood-red tears on the face of the statue of the Virgin of the Tears and a stained handkerchief in her hand. The news got around quickly, and 130,000 of the city’s deeply religious Catholics flocked to the church, snarling the city’s traffic.

After one week of tumult, the statue was taken away to Madrid for scientific study. The result? Nearly complete silence​—except for one brief statement by the archbishop of Granada: “There was no indication of anything supernatural.”

That, however, seems to have made little difference to many in Granada. Miracle or not, they still come to the empty display case of the statue in order to offer their prayers and flowers. But does God’s Word support this kind of blind reverence? No; rather, the Bible counsels, “Flee from idolatry.”​—1 Corinthians 10:14.

“A Very Happy Afternoon” in Abidjan

“THIS is a very happy afternoon for the Ivory Coast,” said A. D. Schroeder, a member of the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses, as he opened the dedication program for the new branch building in Abidjan. The 500 guests present on February 27, 1982, had every reason to feel that way. Not only was the beautiful new building itself a cause for rejoicing but it was also a clear evidence that Jehovah has blessed their efforts in the missionary field in Ivory Coast and Upper Volta.

In 1971 the Watch Tower Society established a branch in Abidjan to supervise the preaching work in those two countries. It consisted of an office and living quarters for four in a small, third-floor apartment. The work moved ahead so rapidly that soon this small office could no longer handle the load. So, in 1978, a site in Deux Plateaux, a developing suburb eight miles from the center of town, was acquired for a new branch.

Construction began on June 1, 1980. Volunteers from the sixteen congregations in Abidjan did nearly all the work. Every Sunday four congregations would send twenty-five volunteers each, including mothers with babies on their backs, to work on the project. Eventually, this amounted to 30,000 man-hours, or the equivalent of fourteen persons working forty hours a week for a full year. Two Witnesses with construction experience moved in from France and helped on the project for one year. This, along with materials furnished either free or at cost by brothers and interested persons, made it possible to put up the building at half the cost of even the lowest estimate by private contractors.

Now for a quick tour of the building. (Refer to the drawing above.) Just inside the main entrance, we walk up two flights of stairs, past two large planters filled with tropical plants and flowers, and enter directly into the marble-floored lobby. Off to the right is a large Kingdom Hall with seating for two hundred persons. To the left are three offices and three bedrooms. Upstairs are five more bedrooms, laundry, kitchen, dining room and a library leading out to a terrace atop the Kingdom Hall. On the basement level are the shipping department, the carpenter shop and a garage.

The guests for the dedication program, many in colorful native costumes, were obviously impressed. They were filled with excitement and appreciation, not just for this fine new facility but, more so, for the praise and honor it brings to the happy God, Jehovah, who gave the increase. It was, indeed, “a very happy afternoon.”

Do You Have Affection for Jehovah?

LOVE has many “faces.” An ardent young man may be in love with a beautiful girl. There is the love of a mother for her child. And there is the love that binds Christians together in a globe-encircling brotherhood.

All of this is “love,” but the Greeks have separate words for the different kinds of love. Éros is the love associated with sex attraction. Storgé denotes love based on blood relationship. And agápe​—unselfish love based on principle—​is the love that genuine Christians earth wide have among themselves.​—John 13:34, 35.

Tender Affection

However, when wishing to stress love in an especially warm and affectionate way, writers of the Christian Greek Scriptures used the word philía. It denotes a strong, warm, personal attachment, such as that existing between genuine friends. Jehovah has such a special affection for his only-begotten Son. Thus Jesus said of himself: “The Son cannot do a single thing of his own initiative, but only what he beholds the Father doing. For whatever things that One does, these things the Son also does in like manner. For the Father has affection for the Son and shows him all the things he himself does.” And, similarly, regarding his genuine followers, Jesus said: “The Father himself has affection for you, because you have had affection for me and have believed that I came out as the Father’s representative.”​—John 5:19, 20; 16:27.

In the Christian Greek Scriptures, “affection” refers to a warm, personal kind of love. This is apparent from the fact that often in translation it is coupled with the word “tender.” For instance, the apostle Paul admonishes Christians: “In brotherly love have tender affection for one another.” (Romans 12:10) Moreover, the disciple James cites the endurance of Job and the outcome Jehovah gave as proving “that Jehovah is very tender in affection and merciful.”​—James 5:11.

Is Affection for Jehovah Possible?

So Jehovah can have tender affection for integrity-keeping​—though imperfect—​humans. But since affection means having a close, warm fondness for someone, is it possible for imperfect humans to have affection for the Universal Sovereign, Jehovah?

Yes, this is possible. An outstanding example of a person who did have warm affection for Jehovah was David. This can be seen from his many psalms. He greatly appreciated Jehovah’s loving care as a Shepherd.​—Psalm 18:1; 23:1-6.

Jehovah can be so close, so real, to us that we can have a personal affection, or fondness, for him. In fact, that we should have this close, warm affection for our Maker is clear from the first and greatest commandment. According to it, we are to ‘love Jehovah with our whole heart, our whole soul, our whole mind and our whole strength.’​—Mark 12:29, 30.

Cultivating Warm Affection for Jehovah

How, then, can we cultivate this warm affection for Jehovah? By developing ever-deepening appreciation of what a loving, affectionate heavenly Father he is. This we can do by taking time to read his Word, the Bible, regularly. Especially may we find it beneficial to read such portions as the Psalms, the Gospels and the apostolic letters.

Another great aid in cultivating warm affection for Jehovah is the developing of the spirit of appreciation and thanksgiving for his many blessings. Consider all good things as coming from him, for, in fact, “every good gift and every perfect present . . . comes down from the Father of the celestial lights.” Indeed, Scriptural admonitions to give thanks to God are numerous, particularly in the book of Psalms and in the letters of Paul. Typical are the apostle’s words: “In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ [give] thanks always for all things to our God and Father.”​—James 1:17; Ephesians 5:20.

Also helping us to grow in affection for Jehovah God is prayer​—heartfelt, sincere and humble petitions and supplications addressed to our loving heavenly Father. In prayer we dwell on Jehovah’s fine qualities, his goodness toward us and our need for him. And in prayer we also plead with him to forgive our sins, as did David in Psalm 51. Understandably, all of this draws us closer to Jehovah and strengthens our affection for him.

How Affection for Jehovah Helps Us

If we cultivate this warm, personal affection for Jehovah God, truly loving him with our whole heart, soul, mind and strength, then what? This will help us to walk in the way that is pleasing to God and will also spare us many pains and heartaches. Those Christians who get themselves in trouble by seriously transgressing God’s righteous laws very likely have failed to cultivate this warm relationship with the heavenly Father.

For example, there was a young Christian, hardly out of his teens, who had the privilege of full-time service. But he grew careless as to the “works of the flesh” and had to be disciplined. (Galatians 5:19-21) When the seriousness of his wrongdoing was impressed upon him, he sincerely repented. Yet he had overlooked what should have been uppermost in his mind, namely, the reproach that his wayward course brought upon Jehovah’s name. Had this young man had a warm, personal relationship with his heavenly Father, very likely that would have served as a deterrent.

Jesus asked Peter whether he had not only love but also affection for his Master. When Peter replied that he did, Jesus said, “Feed my little sheep.” (John 21:15-17) It is similar with our having affection for Jehovah. Such affection will help us to be concerned with pleasing God by keeping his commandments. It will make us concerned that we do not displease him, that we do not hurt his feelings. As the apostle Paul reminds us, if we shrink back from doing Jehovah’s will, He will have no pleasure in us. We surely do not want that to happen to us, do we? (Hebrews 10:38, 39) How much better to have faith and true warm affection for our loving God!

Therefore, let us cultivate a warm affection for Jehovah God. We can do so by reading his Word, by reflecting on his goodness in the spirit of thanksgiving, by persevering in prayer and by seeking to please him by our conduct and our zealous ministry in proclaiming his name and kingdom.

Questions From Readers

◼ What was “the sign of Jonah” mentioned in Matthew 16:4?

In response to a request from the Pharisees and Sadducees for a sign, Jesus said: “A wicked and adulterous generation keeps on seeking for a sign, but no sign will be given it except the sign of Jonah.”​—Matthew 16:1-4.

These religious leaders evidently were looking for a visible sign from heaven before accepting Jesus as the Messiah, basing their expectation on a wrong understanding of Daniel 7:13, 14. They demanded that the Messiah meet their predetermined views, overlooking the marvelous things that Jesus was doing and teaching. (John 4:25-29, 42; 7:31; 9:30-33) So Jesus told the Pharisees and Sadducees that the only additional “sign” that would be provided would be “the sign of Jonah.”

Many months earlier Jesus had mentioned “the sign of Jonah.” What he then added can help us to perceive his point: “For just as Jonah was in the belly of the huge fish three days and three nights, so the Son of man will be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights.”​—Matthew 12:38-40.

Jonah was, in a sense, in Sheol, or the grave, when he was in the belly of the huge fish that swallowed him. (Jonah 2:1, 2) Then he came out, as if resurrected, to perform his prophetic assignment in Nineveh. It would be similar with Jesus but even more miraculous.

Jesus foretold that he would die and on the third day be raised from the dead. (Matthew 16:21; 20:17-19; John 2:19-21) When Jesus actually did rise from the dead on the third day, his disciples called to mind what he had said, and this strengthened their faith in him. (John 2:22; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8) Even some of the Jewish priests who learned of “the sign of Jonah” and the Christian message “began to be obedient to the faith.” (Acts 6:7) But they certainly were in the minority. Most of the Jewish leaders who had refused to be impressed by Jesus’ marvelous works and teachings when he walked among them continued to be of the same mind. They rejected “the sign of Jonah,” Jesus’ resurrection from the dead on the third day.

◼ Why is the audience sometimes invited to stand for song and prayer at Christian meetings and conventions?

Song and prayer have long been part of true worship. (1 Chronicles 16:7-9; Matthew 26:26-30; James 5:13, 14) Thus, these are a normal and important part of worship at congregational meetings or assemblies of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Many songs are in the form of prayers or praises to God. When a large group unitedly stands for song and prayer it can be viewed as showing respect as they come before God with thanksgiving.​—1 Kings 8:14, 22, 23.

It should be appreciated, though, that the Bible shows that praying or singing praises to God may be done in any posture. (Compare Luke 22:39-41; Acts 16:24, 25.) So there are no rules in this regard. If a person’s health or circumstances make it preferable for him to be seated during a congregation’s song and prayer, that is not wrong. Often Christians are seated when praying at smaller Congregation Book Studies, home Bible studies and at mealtimes.

More Valuable Than Church Attendance

What is that? According to a man living in Italy, reading the Watchtower magazine is. He wrote:

“I received the gift of a subscription to your magazine The Watchtower from one of your people and read the copies as soon as they arrived.

“I really must thank you for the marvelous articles contained in this magazine. Though deep, the information is clearly explained and, above all, the writers undeniably adhere to the Bible text.

“Although at one time I used to just recite a prayer to my Creator as soon as I woke up in the morning, I now read one of the articles in your magazine and then meditate on its contents.

“I am a peasant farmer living alone, but since I got to know Jehovah’s Witnesses I seem to have so many friends. When they come from Asti to visit me it is just like receiving a visit from the apostles. I must admit I have learned more about the Bible in the past few months than in fifty years of church attendance.”

If you would like to learn more about the teachings of the Bible, we feel sure that you too will appreciate The Watchtower. For only $3.50, you can have twenty-four copies mailed to your home during the next year.

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