The Watchtower — October 15, 1982

Our Needs​—Can Governments Fill Them?

SUFFICIENT food to eat, pure water to drink, suitable clothing to wear and a house to live in​—these are basic necessities of life. Around the world, under every kind of economic system, people strive for these basic needs.

Do you spend most of your waking hours trying to get them? Does the government of the land you live in adequately provide the means to obtain them? What is the record, worldwide, of governments in this regard?

Food to Eat

“At least some 450 million people​—perhaps as many as a billion—​have less food than is necessary for basic survival.”​—Scientific American.

“Changes in the average U.S. diet during this century have amounted to a wave of malnutrition . . . that could damage health by being a causal factor in hypertension and chronic diseases.”​—Testimony by physicians, nutritionists and scientists to a US Senate Select Committee.

Water to Drink

“Over half the peoples of the Third World do not have safe water to drink.”​—Earthscan, as quoted in World Press Review.

“The river [Rhine, source of drinking water for 18 million Europeans] carries away the wastes of 60 million people . . . In 1973, some 55 per cent of the waste water was not treated or only partially treated before being discharged into the river.”​—World Health (magazine of the World Health Organization).

“The ground water in much of the [United States is] being threatened by widespread contamination from toxic organic chemicals.”​—The New York Times.

Clothing and Shelter

Around the world “800 million are without housing.”​—El Tiempo, Colombia.

In one relatively stable South American land “more than half [the population] . . . have no decent clothing, live in miserable homes and lack supplies of drinking water.”​—El Espectador, Colombia.

Why Do These Shortages Persist?

Governments give many reasons for these shortages. See if you think that they are valid.

1. Much malnutrition is blamed on ignorance. People just do not know the correct foods to eat.

2. Some say there is enough food in the world but that, as a news report shows, “lack of transport, and not of food, is one of the main reasons for famine and malnutrition in the Third World.”

3. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) claims that slow negotiations and protectionist policies restrict the access of developing countries to the markets of developed countries.

4. Many nations find themselves having to choose between buying armaments and providing needed food for the poor. The money spent annually on the world’s armaments “would be enough to satisfy the basic necessities of the Third World until the year 2000 . . . The smallest savings in defense costs would make it possible to supply drinking water​—an essential element for life—​to 1,200 million people. With the resources used to build and operate one modern submarine, 450,000 modest homes could be built.”​—El Tiempo.

A Basic Reason

You may agree that the above problems contribute to the difficulties in providing the necessities for mankind. But behind them lies something more basic: This system of things encourages everyone to be totally self-centered. Individuals ‘look after number one.’ Commercial interests pollute the environment in the pursuit of profit. Social groups jealously guard their privileges and are unwilling to make sacrifices to help those less fortunate. Nations fiercely defend their sovereignty and promote their own interests, no matter who else suffers.

It is evident that international cooperation of the highest quality is required if the basic necessities of all mankind are going to be supplied. In the present system of things no one but the most idealistic thinks that such cooperation will ever take place. Do you, honestly?

Is There a Solution?

Yes, there is. But it comes from a source that many do not recognize. It may even surprise you.

How Our Needs Will Be Filled

“AFTER 30 years of international cooperation, the number of hungry people keeps on increasing,” said the director general of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). He admitted that “the policy followed until now has been a failure.”

Given the present self-centered attitudes of the nations, no international efforts can ever be truly effective in solving the problem of providing basic necessities for all mankind. Something more is needed. What is that? Many thinking persons have concluded that what is needed is:

World Government

There has to be a world government with the authority and power to control the world’s resources and organize a proper distribution of goods, in order to make sure that no one suffers want. Is such a world government possible? Two attempts at world government, the League of Nations and the United Nations organization, have utterly failed to solve the problems caused by selfish nationalism.

So where can an effective world government be found? Evidently, it has to come from outside this world system of things. But is there such an authority with the capacity to organize a world government? Yes, there is one that has a record of deep concern for the welfare of humanity. That authority is God.

In this materialistic twentieth century, this may sound strange. Is it realistic to hope for world rulership by God? Is there any evidence that God is even interested in being a world ruler? And if so, would his rule be better than the man-rule that we have endured for so long?

A Realistic Hope

In the minds of many​—even of many who believe in God—​religious things are somehow separate from the “real world.” It is all right, for example, to speak of their going to heaven when they die. But they feel that it is not realistic to expect God to do something here on earth, such as actually ruling the world. Do you feel that way?

Have you ever considered how much we rely on God’s laws even now? The air we breathe, the rain, the sunshine, everything that makes life possible is governed by what is often called natural laws, actually God’s laws. Whether people profess to believe in God or not, they are completely dependent on God. (Matthew 5:45; Acts 14:17) Should it be surprising if God, whose laws control the wind, rain and sun, also set out laws to govern the affairs of mankind?

Besides, did you realize that, about 3,500 years ago, Jehovah God selected a people, organized them as a nation and provided them a government in which he was King? That nation was Israel, and one of their prophets later wrote: “Jehovah is our Judge, Jehovah is our Statute-giver, Jehovah is our King; he himself will save us.”​—Isaiah 33:22.

God’s Rule and Its Results

How did it work out for the Israelites? As long as they kept God’s law, they prospered in every way. After the first forty-five years of God-rule, one of their leaders reported: “Not a promise failed out of all the good promise that Jehovah had made to the house of Israel; it all came true.”​—Joshua 21:45.

The experience of the Israelites shows that it is quite reasonable to speak of rulership by God. Just as he ruled directly over that small Middle Eastern nation, he is able to rule the whole earth. Will he?

Two thousand years ago the Christian apostle John heard something that gives strong reason for us to be confident that God will act in behalf of humankind. John was granted a vision of things to come, and in the middle of that vision he heard the exultant cry: “The kingdom of the world did become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will rule as king forever and ever.” Then John heard the heartfelt expression: “We thank you, Jehovah God, the Almighty, . . . because you have taken your great power and begun ruling as king.”​—Revelation 11:15, 17.

This vision​—inspired by God himself—​foretold God’s taking over “the kingdom of the world.” Yes, he will be world ruler, and “his Christ,” Jesus, will be his appointed administrator. Thus we have a firm assurance that Jehovah God will have a world government.

This world government by God is the central theme of the Bible. Jesus taught us to pray for it in the Lord’s Prayer when he said: “Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth.” (Matthew 6:10) Through the mouths of many prophets Jehovah God pointed to this kingdom as the only means by which the deep-rooted problems of this world will ever be solved. Will it be more successful than man’s governments? Well, consider.

Water to Drink: Jehovah God is the Creator of the earth. He fully understands its ecology. To the prophet Amos he revealed that he “is calling for the waters of the sea, that he may pour them out upon the surface of the earth.” (Amos 9:6) He fully understands this planet’s water cycle and can exercise complete control over it.

While he was directly ruling the ancient Israelites, he promised: “Jehovah will open up to you his good storehouse, the heavens, to give the rain on your land in its season.” (Deuteronomy 28:12) As long as his people were faithful, he fulfilled that promise. And he is equally able to guarantee abundant water supplies for all under his world government.

Food to Eat: Experts say that one of the biggest obstacles to feeding the hungry is the barrier of nationalism. God’s world government has the power to tear down those barriers. The inspired prophet wrote: “[God] will certainly . . . set matters straight respecting mighty nations far away. And they will have to beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears. They will not lift up sword, nation against nation, neither will they learn war anymore.”​—Micah 4:3.

Is such a thing possible? It is indeed. In fact, it is happening right now! There is a society of people numbering millions around the world who have already subjected themselves to God’s kingdom. They no longer view things in a narrow, nationalistic or racial way, but they view one another as brothers, working together to do God’s will. The existence of this body of people is a proof of the reality of God’s world government. Who are they? We are speaking of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Jehovah God has promised that he will bless the earth and it will produce abundantly. Through the mouth of the psalmist, he said: “The earth itself will certainly give its produce.” “There will come to be plenty of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains there will be an overflow.” (Psalm 67:6; 72:16) Yes, under the world rule of God’s kingdom there will be no obstacle to this basic essential’s being richly supplied.

Clothing and Shelter: Jesus showed God’s loving concern for the physical welfare of his servants when he said: “Take a lesson from the lilies of the field, how they are growing; they do not toil, nor do they spin; but I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory was arrayed as one of these. If, now, God thus clothes the vegetation of the field, . . . will he not much rather clothe you?”​—Matthew 6:28-30.

Yes, God cares for his servants even now. Jehovah’s Witnesses can vouch for the truth of this. Certainly, then, when his world government rules this entire earth, there will be no lack of anything essential for our happiness.

Will You Be a Part?

Does this world government sound inviting? Surely, any reasonable person would like to live under such a system. First, though, we must study the government’s constitution. This has already been published in the Holy Bible. We must learn the laws that have to be obeyed if we are to live under God’s government.

This may involve changes in our life. The self-centeredness that is so much a part of this system of things has no place in God’s arrangement. Subjects of God’s kingdom must love him with their whole being, and also love their neighbor as themselves. Moreover, continuing in practices such as lying, stealing, immorality, cheating, drunkenness and drug addiction would make us ineligible for life under that government.​—Matthew 22:37-39; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10.

Is it worth the effort? Yes, indeed. Only Jehovah God knows how good life could be on this planet under the right kind of government. In the Bible he has given some indications. Those who now serve God sincerely already feel some of the happiness and peace of mind that will exist then.

According to all the evidence, very soon those who become subjects of God’s kingdom will get to see and enjoy the whole picture. Yes, events occurring in fulfillment of Bible prophecy today indicate that the kingdom of God is near and about to take over control from the divided, unsuccessful governments of this world. (Luke 21:25-28, 31; Daniel 2:44) Would you like to be a part of all of it? Why not now look into it further for yourself? Learn to have confidence in Jehovah God and his world government, the only solution to the problems of our day.

[Box on page 7]

Only God’s kingdom will provide all mankind with . . .

□ Plenty of good food

□ Ample pure water

□ Suitable clothing

□ Comfortable housing

Those Weaknesses Can Be Overcome

THREE problems, more than others, seem to trouble modern youths as well as many adults. What are they? Alcoholism, smoking and masturbation (also known as self-abuse or autoerotism).

These habits appeal to the weaknesses of the flesh, and the modern environment makes it especially difficult to overcome them. For instance, liquor and cigarettes are appealingly advertised far and wide. Erotic inclinations are abetted by an avalanche of pornographic literature, motion pictures and television programs. But this does not mean that these problems or weaknesses cannot be overcome.

Divinely Provided Aids

In this regard it is helpful to consider the example of the apostle Paul. Christian apostle though he was, he confessed that he failed to do the things he wanted to do and did the things he did not want to do. (Romans 7:14-25) However, he also said: “I pummel my body and lead it as a slave, that, after I have preached to others, I myself should not become disapproved somehow.” (1 Corinthians 9:27) In fact, he was able to say to his fellow Jews: “Men, brothers, I have behaved before God with a perfectly clear conscience down to this day.”​—Acts 23:1; 22:3.

What divinely provided aids are there to assist us in ‘pummeling our bodies’? How can we be helped to ‘behave with a perfectly clear conscience’ as regards such weaknesses as alcoholism, tobacco addiction and masturbation?

God’s Word, the Holy Bible, is one indispensable aid. Reading it regularly, yes, daily, and especially such portions as the Psalms, the book of Proverbs and the Christian Greek Scriptures, can be of great help. True it is that ‘man does not live on bread alone but on the truths coming from God’s mouth’ and found in His Word, the Sacred Scriptures.​—Matthew 4:4.

We gain spiritual strength from reading God’s Word and Christian publications that help us to understand and apply it. These give us a better view of what pleases our Creator, Jehovah God. Moreover, we get good motivation from the righteous precepts and warning examples recorded in God’s Word. We are thus helped to love​—and to do—​what is good and right, while hating, yes, abhorring, what is bad, or wicked.​—Psalm 97:10; Romans 12:9.

Prayer to God is another great aid. Time and again Christians have testified to prayer’s great help in combating their weaknesses. This was so with one Christian woman who was having a difficult time breaking the cigarette habit. Upon hearing a fine Bible lecture on the subject of prayer, she went home, prayed earnestly to Jehovah God to aid her in overcoming the habit, and from then on she had no further problem with it. (Philippians 4:6, 7) When we ask God, in all sincerity, to forgive us for having transgressed along a certain line, we get a sense of relief and are helped to make a fresh start in our struggle.

God’s holy spirit, or active force, also is an aid. It is available to us if we pray for it. Jesus said: “If you, although being wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking him.” That holy spirit is a powerful force. (Luke 11:13; Zechariah 4:6) If we yield to its influence, we will be helped, for the fruitage of the spirit includes self-control, essential in coping with plaguing problems.​—Galatians 5:22, 23.

Mature Christians also can be a source of help. Especially is this true of those who have spiritual qualifications, such as the congregational elders. By taking an elder into our confidence, we can be greatly aided in our struggle. But others can help also. The “aged women” may be able to help younger women. (Titus 2:3-5) For example, one retired nurse who had smoked heavily all her life was determined to stop smoking so that she could qualify for baptism. She set a certain date and told her close Christian associates about her determination. Well, every day one of these fellow believers either phoned her or visited her to give her moral support. The result was that by the end of the week she had completely overcome her craving for cigarettes.

So, then, we have noted four basic avenues of aid: (1) reading and studying God’s Word, together with Christian literature; (2) persevering in prayer; (3) yielding to the influence of God’s holy spirit; and (4) enlisting the aid of mature Christians. In these ways, many, many persons have been helped in their struggle to overcome weaknesses. Yet, some have a far more difficult time conquering weaknesses than do others. Are there yet other aids that they could effectively use?

Why More Difficulty?

Why do some have more difficulty than do others in overcoming certain weaknesses? Without doubt, there is the matter of spiritual immaturity. Anyone who fails to make use of the aids previously mentioned, or who uses them merely in a perfunctory way, is bound to have a more difficult time overcoming his weaknesses.

Ancestry is another factor. Some apparently have acquired certain weaknesses from their parents, or even their grandparents, in much the same way that one may have a predisposition to a disease, such as diabetes. So with respect to weaknesses it seems that ‘fathers have eaten unripe grapes and their sons’ teeth have been set on edge.’​—Ezekiel 18:2.

There is also the matter of how frequently or how avidly a person has pursued a questionable course. This has great bearing on how firmly he is addicted to it. To illustrate: An individual who is smoking only half a pack of cigarettes a day would likely have less trouble stopping the practice than would one smoking three packs a day, a chain smoker.

Environment also may have a bearing on the problem. For instance, a wife may want to stop smoking, but her husband and teenage children may all smoke. It would be far more difficult for her to break the habit than it would be for a woman whose family did not use tobacco. Likewise, if prior to gaining Scriptural knowledge a person had the habit of dwelling on unclean thoughts, it would be more difficult for him to obey the injunction at Philippians 4:8 to think noble thoughts, and especially so if he had to work secularly among those whose conversation was prurient.

Overcoming Alcohol Abuse

What other approach might be taken by a person who seems to have an almost insurmountable problem with his weakness? There is what is known as the somatic approach. It might be called the psychosomatic principle in reverse. The psychosomatic principle is that the body and mind are one and so the mind and the emotions (the psyche) affect the body (the soma). But the reverse is also true; the condition of the body affects the mind. Thus cancer patients often suffer from mental depression. Accordingly, certain nutritionists hold that by building up physical health through proper eating habits a person would be better equipped to overcome the craving for alcohol.

In one experiment, rats were supplied with plain water and with water containing alcohol. Some rats drank heavily of the water containing alcohol, others drank only comparatively little and one rat never drank of it. When the rats were fed a diet especially rich in vitamins and minerals, by and large they greatly decreased their drinking of the water with the alcohol. But when given a diet greatly deficient in essential nutrients, all the rats began drinking large quantities of the water containing alcohol. The experimenters, among whom were some foremost medical researchers, reached the conclusion that there is a definite relationship between the likelihood of alcohol addiction and faulty nutrition; also that genetic differences accounted for the varying amounts of water containing alcohol that the various rats drank.

These findings have been used with good results by some members of the medical profession in dealing with alcoholics. However, the physicians emphasize that for the nutritional approach to be effective a person must have a sincere desire to overcome addiction to alcohol, for it would be a mistake to ignore the moral aspect of alcoholism. They do not agree with those who would have us believe that alcoholism is a purely medical problem. Nor do they overlook the fact that most likely there was either culpability or negligence on the part of those who became addicted to alcohol, even though the genetic factor and faulty nutrition may have played decisive roles.

Those who desire to live godly lives are especially concerned with God’s view of alcohol abuse. His sacred Word leaves no doubt that immoderate indulgence in alcoholic beverages is to be shunned by those desiring divine favor. (Proverbs 23:29-35; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10) This supplies unequaled motivation in overcoming a weakness of this kind.

Giving Up the Tobacco Habit

A certain physician was addicted to tobacco and repeatedly tried to quit using it. But he did not succeed until he decided to become a Christian. It was not easy to stop smoking, but not too difficult. (2 Corinthians 7:1) However, another physician, this doctor’s fleshly brother, was faced with the same problem. In his case, overcoming the habit took a supreme effort, as he was a chain smoker. Though he eventually succeeded, he said that breaking off the habit nearly drove him to commit suicide.

Some nutritionists hold that proper nutrition will help a person to break the tobacco habit. They believe that often those addicted to tobacco have bad nerves, poor circulation or are overweight and that by remedying these problems there is a better chance of overcoming the addiction.

Another somatic approach (known as “One Step at a Time”) consists of smoking cigarettes with certain filters. First, the smoker uses a filter that removes 25 percent of the nicotine. Then for two weeks he uses one that filters out 50 percent; next, one that removes 75 percent; and, finally, one that filters out 90 percent. It is claimed that after that a person should have no difficulty in stopping altogether.

Combating Masturbation

Another problem that vexes many, especially young persons, is masturbation, self-abuse or autoerotism. True, the Bible does not refer to masturbation by name. However, since it is usually associated with sexual fantasies, it is certainly condemned by all the scriptures that speak against such thinking and action. For example, consider Romans 13:14; Galatians 5:19, 24; Ephesians 5:3-5; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5; 1 Peter 2:11.

It is not our purpose here to discuss the very controversial subject of just how harmful masturbation may be to the body. Still, it is indeed of interest that the late Alexis Carrel, noted biologist and Nobel prize winner, stated in his book Man, the Unknown: “It is well known that sexual excesses impede intellectual activity,” and that self-control is essential to the full use of one’s mental powers. As a help, what somatic approach might be tried?

Often those who indulge frequently in masturbation are of a highly nervous disposition and are troubled with insomnia. To the extent that they can improve their physical health, strengthen their nerves and improve their sleep, they will also be helped in controlling themselves in this matter.

Abstemiousness at the table is another great help. The Encyclopædia Britannica (1959 edition) under the heading “Anaphrodisiacs” says: “Avoidance of a diet rich in meats and spices, and especially of intoxicating beverages, is important.” It could well be that some will not agree with this statement. Regardless of arguments presented, however, one may be helped by trying this somatic approach.

Cling to Bible Standards

Today, more than ever before, members of the human race have difficulty in trying to live by the righteous standards found in the Bible. No doubt, among the factors accounting for this are heredity and also a person’s rearing and environment. And not to be overlooked is the fact that Satan the Devil and his demons are out to debauch the human race. (Revelation 12:12) But, with God’s help and by clinging to Bible standards, a person can successfully resist the Adversary.​—James 4:7.

The somatic approach has at times provided help in dealing with the problems of alcoholism, tobacco addiction and masturbation. Nevertheless, the chief remedies are spiritual aids, including the studying of God’s Word and Christian publications, persisting in prayer, yielding to the influence of Jehovah’s holy spirit and receiving the aid of mature Christians. With such help distressing weaknesses can indeed be overcome.

[Box on page 11]

Are You Struggling?

What should you do if you realize that you need to overcome the abuse of alcohol, the tobacco habit or masturbation? See if you can draw more heavily on one or more of these divinely provided aids:

1. Read God’s Word regularly, drawing strength from it.

2. Pray to God daily, seeking his comfort and aid.

3. Ask God for his holy spirit, or active force.

4. Draw upon help available from mature Christians.

From Atheism to a Purposeful Life

As told by Fred N. Severud

ALTHOUGH I was raised in a very religious family in Norway, I became an atheist. Why? An incident in my early life helps to explain.

In 1909, when I was about ten years old, my little sister died at birth. My grandmother was frantic to get a minister to baptize the baby so she would not go to hell and burn forever. When no minister was available, she grabbed the dirty water she had just bathed the baby in, sprinkled it over her head, said a prayer and “sent her to heaven.”

“Why couldn’t we all go to heaven that easily?” I wondered. Seeds of doubt were sown that eventually caused me to lose all faith in God. I just could not understand what kind of God would torture people in a burning hell.

I also could not accept the idea that life on earth is just preparing us for heaven. What purpose is there to life? Is it just to live seventy or eighty years and then die? Those were questions begging for answers. So when the time came for my confirmation, I refused to be confirmed into a Church that worshiped such a seemingly unreasonable God. I had been going to church just to make my parents happy, but I would clench my teeth at the minister and say about him to myself, “You hypocrite!” Everyone who got confirmed got a new suit. But no confirmation and no new suit for me!

A New Direction to My Life

At the university I attended, for some reason I was the teacher’s favorite student. One day the teacher asked me to give a lecture to the class on the subject of evolution, which I did. As an atheist, I believed in evolution. Yet after the lecture, I told the teacher that there was one thing I did not understand.

“What happened before the eye developed?” I asked. The teacher answered that the eye started with some soft spots in the skull; millions of years went by and finally the eye developed. “You mean to say they just stumbled around not knowing where they were going?” I just wanted to know. I did not mean to argue.

But the teacher got so angry and embarrassed that he gave me a low grade. And that may have changed my whole life. You see, that bad grade disqualified me from being the leader of the cadets at the prestigious military school I attended. Had that not happened I might have chosen a military career. So instead I took up engineering.

I graduated as a civil and structural engineer, and I married a girl I had met while at the university. In 1923 we left our native Norway and headed for the United States, where I hoped to fulfill my ambition “to become the greatest engineer in the world.”

Then, an unexpected turn of events gave my life a new direction. Before we left Norway, our relatives had warned us not to speak about religion with my uncle Chris, in the United States. Why not? Because he was a bit “funny in the head” when it came to religion, we were told. He was a “Bible Student,” as Jehovah’s Witnesses were then called.

Well, upon arrival, who should meet us at the dock but Uncle Chris! And, yes, he did speak to us about his “strange religion,” but we marveled at his answers. ‘A God of love certainly does not torture souls in hell,’ he explained. ‘The earth has an eternal future in God’s purpose. And man was promised eternal life in perfect health right here on a paradise earth.’​—Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10; Psalm 146:3, 4; 104:5; Luke 23:43; Revelation 21:3, 4.

I must admit that I felt drawn to this kind of God, but I was somewhat skeptical. My wife, however, accepted all of it right away. I wanted to search more deeply to see if there were any flaws. Whenever my King James Bible seemed to disagree with what my uncle had said, I would do research, using Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance. Everything came up in favor of what the Bible Students were saying.

Back in Norway we had had to study the Bible as part of our schooling. So I had the “pieces,” as with a jigsaw puzzle, but I did not have the “picture.” However, the more I studied with my uncle, the more I saw there was a place for every piece, with no pieces left over. Finally, in 1935, I too accepted what I was learning and soon was baptized.

I began to see a new direction to my life. I had to spend more time in pleasing God, while still supporting my growing family. Still interested in being a good engineer, I knew now that my life would be more satisfying by serving Jehovah God. Yet I also had to get my business on its feet. The more I studied the Bible, the more I saw that I had put the cart before the horse. First I must serve Jehovah, and then all else (life’s necessities) would be added. (Matthew 6:33) And this is how it has worked out.

Jehovah’s Work Comes First

I had got a good business going by the time of the Depression in 1929. Then I couldn’t pay the wages of my staff, so I was forced to let all of them go. Later, as the economy began to pick up, I put in a bid on a job that would supply me with all the work I would need to get going again. However, quite a number of other engineers were also being considered for the job.

It was a housing job and various government guidelines had been stipulated. One was that there be flat concrete roofs with parapet walls. I knew that without special precautions the parapets would crack at the corners (which, by the way, happened to thirty-nine other projects that I knew of) because of the conflict between the insulated concrete roof, which was heated in the winter, and the parapets, which were out in the cold. The architect saw the point and recommended me for the job. Little did I realize that my determination to put Jehovah’s work first was about to be tested.

At that time Jehovah’s Witnesses were the objects of intense opposition due to their neutral political stand and their public preaching of God’s Word. Arrests were rampant, especially in New Jersey, where I was living.

On a certain Wednesday I had an appointment in Washington, DC, to formulate the new contract. But the Friday before the appointment, at our meeting at the Kingdom Hall, a letter from the Watchtower Society was read in which all the surrounding congregations were asked to counteract the unlawful arrests of our brothers.

We were invited to make peaceful calls that Sunday (just three days before my appointment!) on the homes of the residents of some towns in New Jersey to explain the beliefs of Jehovah’s Witnesses. If many would support the divisional campaigns, as they were called, a good witness could be given. But we had to expect to spend 120 days in jail. If I were to go to jail I could be sure of not getting the job I so badly needed. After praying for Jehovah’s direction, I signed up. Jehovah’s work came first!

When working our assigned territory, we were approached by a policeman who called out brusquely: “What are you doing here?” Immediately a strange feeling came over me. “The job is gone!” I thought to myself. “But Jehovah will take care of me.” Quickly, a sister in the car asked the policeman to direct her to the nearest service station, as she had to use the rest room.

“You just passed one,” he retorted.

“I didn’t need it then,” she answered.

So off we went to the service station. When we returned, fully expecting to be arrested, strangely there was no policeman, no arrest. Consequently I got the job after all!

Full Time in the Preaching Work

It was my earnest desire to spend more time in the preaching and teaching work. To this end, when rehiring my former employees after the Depression, I asked them to be partners. Why? Well, in that way I could spend only three days in the office and four days in the Bible preaching and teaching work.

“You’ll be out preaching all the time,” they said. “We’ll never see you.” I assured them I would come to the office as promised. So they agreed​—they needed the work! Later, I took in more partners and reduced my office days to two.

I kept the goal of pioneering (full-time preaching work) before my children and all four of them have had a share in it, two daughters also serving for several years at the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses. When my youngest child was fifteen, I started pioneering.

Serving in Needy Areas

About the time I started pioneering, I asked the Watchtower Society where the need for kingdom preachers was greater. My family and I were directed to Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, near enough to my business that I could spend two days a week in New York and the rest of the week pioneering. There were only eight Witnesses in East Stroudsburg when we moved there. Twenty years later, there was a thriving congregation, consisting of many whom we had the privilege of helping to become Christians.

With such a strong group no longer needing our help, we felt it was time to seek out new fields where help was needed. The Society suggested an area near New York​—Hackettstown, New Jersey. It was not long before a congregation was formed, then a second one.

One man I called on there, when I introduced myself, asked, “Where are we going to sit, inside or out?” You can imagine the puzzled look on my face. As it turned out, a short time before, in California, he had spent several hours talking to a Witness, which was the first time he had ever heard of Jehovah’s Witnesses. The Witness, excited about the man’s interest, asked him, “When you get home, why don’t you listen to a Witness who comes around?”

“I thought she had sent you,” the man explained. But I just happened to be there in the regular house-to-house preaching work. This man is now an elder, and his wife and two daughters are in the full-time pioneer service.

Engineering Used to Jehovah’s Praise

In the late 1930’s, J. F. Rutherford, then president of the Watchtower Society, called on me to design a building to provide refuge for the Bethel family should intense persecution require their transfer to that location. Little did we know the future use of that building in Ithaca, New York​—Gilead, a school designed to train missionaries for ministerial activity in foreign countries.

To keep up with the ever-increasing flow of Bible literature, there was a continuous need to expand the Watchtower Society’s printing facilities. Thus, in 1950 a new addition to the Bethel home was opened, as well as a new factory for printing Bibles and Bible literature. I had the privilege of designing both these buildings. Yet expansion was not limited to the Society’s facilities in Brooklyn. Rather, it was decided that other properties of the Society be used, near its farm in upstate New York. And once again it was my privilege to work on the plans.

In 1972, after I had been a pioneer for some twenty years, my wife’s health deteriorated, with disability in walking and speech. This made it necessary for me to stop pioneering. Nonetheless, my purpose in life is the same​—to serve Jehovah God forever. I try to share in the preaching work every day. At eighty-two, I am still in fairly good health.

Worldly Prestige Versus Praising Jehovah

My career did not suffer from putting Jehovah’s interests first, as my business partners had feared. In fact, as an engineer I have had the privilege of helping to design many familiar structures, such as the Saint Louis, Missouri, Arch, “Gateway to the West”; the Toronto City Hall; Madison Square Garden and a number of others, both in the United States and in other parts of the world. However, rather than seeking glory in being an engineer, I have come to appreciate that the real glory is spiritual. (Philippians 3:7, 8) Any abilities we have are because of being made by our Grand Creator in his image.​—Genesis 1:26, 27.

How meaningless and empty my life would have been if I had continued as an atheist! As Psalm 14:1 says: “The senseless one has said in his heart: ‘There is no Jehovah.’” How glad I am that I was led to a really worthwhile goal that brings satisfaction and eternal life! And I have the prospect, upon finishing my earthly course faithfully, of seeing face to face the Creator whose very existence I once doubted.

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‘A God of love does not torture souls in hell,’ he explained. I must admit that I felt drawn to this kind of God

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My career did not suffer from putting Jehovah’s interests first, as my business partners had feared

God’s Word Is Alive

Where Are the Dead?

THE man here who is crying is Jacob. He is very sad because he believes his beloved son Joseph has been killed. That long garment covered with blood that Jacob is holding belongs to Joseph. “A vicious wild beast must have devoured him!” cries Jacob. “Joseph is surely torn to pieces!”​—Genesis 37:33.

The people gathered around Jacob are his other children. They are trying to comfort their father. However, as the Catholic Douay Version of the Bible explains: “He would not receive comfort, but said: I will go down to my son into hell, mourning.”​—Genesis 37:35.

Where did Jacob believe Joseph to be? Did he believe that Joseph went to a place of torment to spend eternity there, and did Jacob want to go there and meet him? Or, rather, was it that Jacob merely thought that his beloved son was dead and in the grave and that Jacob himself wanted to die?

Look at this man who is suffering great pain. He is faithful Job. In his distress he prays to God: “Who will grant me this, that thou mayst protect me in hell, and hide me till thy wrath pass, and appoint me a time when thou wilt remember me?”​—Job 14:13, Douay Version.

It is clear that Job wants to die to escape his suffering and pain. So what does he believe will be his condition when he dies? Where are the dead? Job does not believe that he will be alive in a place called hell when he dies, nor that he will be tormented there in fire. Job knows that when a person goes to what this Catholic Bible calls hell, he simply goes to his grave where there is no consciousness and hence no suffering. (Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10) The original Hebrew word for this place of the dead is Sheol, and it means the common grave of mankind. So, in the scriptures quoted here, some other Bibles, such as the Authorized Version, read “grave” instead of “hell.”

Is there any hope for those unconscious in the grave? Can they live again? Yes, the Bible says: “Death and hell [margin, “the grave”] delivered up the dead which were in them.” (Revelation 20:13, 14, Authorized Version) What good news this is! God will bring back to life persons who have died, fulfilling the hope of persons such as Job who believed in the resurrection.​—Job 14:14, 15.

[Picture on page 16]

When Jacob tells his family that his son is in hell, what does he mean?

[Picture on page 17]

Hell​—why would Job pray to go there?

Insight on the News

Evolution’s “Black Hole”

“That the serpent of creationism would be smitten by the righteous staff of science was really no surprise,” wrote D. P. Doyle, director of education policy studies at Washington’s American Enterprise Institute. His article in the Los Angeles Times went on to observe: “Indeed . . . science everywhere reigns supreme. Our material abundance, our war machines, our computer toys, the air waves trembling with phantom TV images, the poisoned atmosphere and polluted water all bear mute testimony to the role and place of science.”

Yet when it comes to scientific support of evolution, Doyle asked: “In what way is scientific evidence overwhelming?” His answer: “Of course, science simply beats creationism all hollow when it comes to describing dinosaurs, meteorites, fossils and big bangs. But at the center of the scientific enterprise is a nagging doubt, a sort of spiritual black hole.”

This “spiritual black hole” exists because “any thoughtful person must, in the face of physical reality, wonder if there is any larger purpose to life,” explained the researcher. Though “science can explain how the world works,” Doyle warned: “At issue is the more important question about man’s role in the universe, man’s sense of purpose, his vision of a moral order​—or, more important, the possibility of a moral order. The scientific evolutionists, who rail against creationism with the enthusiasm and finesse of Goliath, are in mortal danger of missing this critical point.”

Jesus’ “Mistake”?

A review of the recent book Christians and Politics by Haitian theologian Fritz Fontius appeared in the periodical Fraternité Matin of Abidjan, Ivory Coast. The review observed:

“The pastor recognizes that what is remembered about Jesus Christ himself is the image of one who ‘scrupulously kept separate from politics.’ . . . After him, his apostles, particularly Paul and Peter, preached the same attitude of the nonpolitical Christian. It could also be mentioned here that Jesus’ attitude originated from the mistake he made in believing in the imminence of the end of the world. All his efforts turned to heaven. Today Jehovah’s Witnesses perpetuate the same error.”

It is gratifying to know that Jehovah’s Witnesses are considered to be in such good company when making this so-called mistake, or error. Certainly it is true that belief in a coming end of the world’s political systems affected how Jesus and his disciples viewed politics. What apparently escapes the Fraternité Matin book reviewer is that Jesus “scrupulously kept separate from politics” primarily because his “kingdom is no part of this world,” whose ruler he identified as Satan.​—John 18:36; 14:30; Matthew 4:8-10.

The determining factor in the political neutrality of true Christians then and now is that they are also ‘no part of Satan’s world.’ Rather, their allegiance is to God’s kingdom as the only government that can truly solve human problems.​—John 17:16; Matthew 6:33.

Government “Trembling”

Under the headline “The ‘Rock’ of Government Is Trembling All Over the World,” a Washington Post column noted that recent military conflicts worldwide “reinforce the idea that events are out of control.” The newspaper then drew attention to a published political analysis by Horace W. Busby, a former presidential aide and political consultant. Busby observed that “since the 1960s, governments everywhere, West and East, have begun not to work.” Using problems in the United States to illustrate, he asserted that “the institutions within the system are tending to paralysis, unable to address or deal successfully with an increasing number of decisions critical to orderly governance.”

This explains why observers with knowledge of God’s purpose soon to replace such “trembling” governments with a global kingdom that really works do not continue to support futile efforts to prop them up.​—Daniel 2:44.

Do Children Want Rules?

“NO MATTER how superficially mature a child appears to be,” says Dr. Harry Mendelsohn, director of family therapy at New York’s Montefiore Hospital and Medical Center, “he is still a child.” And rules will still be needed. He explains: “A parent has to take charge. A family is not a democracy, although input from each child should be encouraged. But ultimately all decisions must rest with the parents. Rules should be made, they should be explicit and repeated over and over again. Children shouldn’t have the responsibility for making their own rules.”​—New York Daily News, September 13, 1981.

“Children are great con artists,” says a youth center administrator. “They deny they want rules, but if you break down the con, you find otherwise. The bedrock is that they think reasonable rules are a sign of love.”

Do children agree? From a set of “Rules for Parents by Boys in a Reform School,” here are some of the things they are saying:

“Bug us a little. Be strict and consistent in dishing out discipline. Show us who’s boss. It gives us a feeling of security to know we’ve got some strong support.

“Light a candle; show us the way. Tell us God is not dead, sleeping, or on vacation. We need to believe in something bigger and stronger than ourselves.

“If you catch us lying, stealing or being cruel, let us know why what we did was wrong. When we need punishment, dish it out, but let us know you still love us.

“Call our bluff. Don’t be wishy-washy and don’t be intimidated by our threats to drop out of school or leave home. Stand firm. Kids don’t really want everything they ask for.”

All of this is well expressed in a brief statement by the wisest of all parents, the greatest of child-welfare administrators, Jehovah God. In his inspired Word, the Bible, it is said: “You, fathers, do not be irritating your children, but go on bringing them up in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah.” (Ephesians 6:4) The Creator understands not only what children want but also what parents need. Whether you are a youth or a parent, give attention to the helpful points in the following two articles.

Sound Guidance for Today’s Youth

“Hear, my son, and accept my sayings. . . . I will instruct you even in the way of wisdom.”​—Proverbs 4:10, 11.

1, 2. (a) What questions are addressed to young people? (b) Where can reliable answers be found?

AS A young person, are you concerned about your future? Does the world sometimes seem frightening? Would you like to know how to deal with life’s problems and where to find reliable guidance and sound wisdom?

² You can find such help in an ancient book that offers to give “to a young man knowledge and thinking ability.” What is that book? It is the book of PROVERBS, in the Bible. If you are a young person, you should read that Bible book, for it can help you to be happy and successful. If you are an adult, especially a parent, that book can aid you in seeing how you can best help your children or young friends. The first nine chapters Pr 1-9 of Proverbs provide counsel as from a loving father to his son. He says: “Hear, my son, and accept my sayings. . . . I will instruct you even in the way of wisdom.”​—Proverbs 1:1-4; 4:10, 11.

3. What information, of value to youths, does the book of Proverbs provide?

³ Of course, not everyone wants such help. Some people prefer to do things their way. They do not want advice​—not even from God. But Proverbs says: “A wise person will listen and take in more instruction.” (Proverbs 1:5) This book shows how to have a happier life. It deals with moral law. It shows the happy results of right living. It can help you make wise decisions. It shows that wisdom and knowledge will give pleasure and that staying away from troublemakers can save your life. The book of Proverbs provides skillful direction, both for you young people and for your elders.

Wisdom and Knowledge

4, 5. (a) How available is wisdom? (b) Why will many persons not listen? (c) What do you think is the wise course? Why?

⁴ God who created all things is also the source of wisdom. He wants his wise way known. He has it proclaimed “in the very street” so everyone can hear. But most persons do not want to listen. Many do not like the source from which it comes. Proverbs says: “The fear of Jehovah is the start of wisdom.” And: “The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of knowledge. Wisdom and discipline are what mere fools have despised.”​—Proverbs 1:20; 9:10; 1:7.

⁵ Many persons do not want to obey God. They like things the way they are, whereas “the fear of Jehovah means the hating of bad.” (Proverbs 8:13) Fearing Jehovah would keep them from doing things that displease him. The wise course is to learn his ways and principles and obey him above all others. This will keep you from doing things that would cause you shame, injury, heartaches, or that could even cost you your life.

6. What do you have to do to gain wisdom?

⁶ While wisdom is available for all, you have to reach out to gain it. You have to want it, work for it and treasure it. This requires time and effort. It would be good to ask yourself: ‘What am I really doing with my life? What are my goals? Am I spending a great deal of time on useless things, or am I using the time I have available during my youth to dig for knowledge and wisdom?’ Wisdom is worth more than jewels, and “all other delights themselves cannot be made equal to it.” (Proverbs 8:1, 5, 6, 11) Do you dig for it as you would for silver, or for hidden treasure? Proverbs says: “If you keep seeking for it as for silver and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, in that case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge of God. For Jehovah himself gives wisdom; out of his mouth there are knowledge and discernment.” Do you put that kind of effort into learning about God’s Word?​—Proverbs 2:4-6.

7. (a) What can you do to make study and learning easier? (b) Why is this worth the effort?

⁷ You may be thinking: ‘But I don’t like to study​—reading is such a bore!’ Yet the more you read, the easier reading becomes. The more you learn, the easier learning is. You connect new information with things you already know, and you understand them better. As you make the effort, God blesses you. As your knowledge and understanding grow, you will find great joy in learning, and things you learn from God’s Word will protect you in today’s world. These are not just nice-sounding words or wishes. It is fact, truth, as Proverbs says: “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.”​—Proverbs 2:10-13.

Crime Does Not Pay

8, 9. What problems, common in today’s cities, does Proverbs discuss, and what important advice does it give in this regard?

⁸ This book (Proverbs) deals with problems and temptations common to youth not only in Bible times but also today. In today’s cities there are crime, violence, youth gangs and people who prey on the young. What warnings does this ancient book give that will help protect you from such problems?

⁹ It warns against becoming involved with the wrong kind of people. It says: “My son, if sinners try to seduce you, do not consent. If they keep saying: ‘Do go with us. . . . Let us find all sorts of precious valuables. Let us fill our houses with spoil. Your lot you ought to cast in among us. Let there come to be just one bag belonging to all of us’​—my son, do not go in the way with them. Hold back your foot from their roadway. For their feet are those that run to sheer badness, and they keep hastening to shed blood.”​—Proverbs 1:10-16.

10. What does Proverbs say about the path of the wicked ones, and why is this important?

¹⁰ Should you come in contact with people who commit crimes, you should flee. Solomon wrote: “Do not be envious of bad men, and do not show yourself craving to get in with them. For despoiling is what their heart keeps meditating, and trouble is what their own lips keep speaking.” (Proverbs 24:1, 2) Remember: Crime does not pay. Even if man does not catch you, God sees. How foolish to lose your everlasting life for a few ill-gotten gains! Proverbs advises youth, as well as older persons: “Into the path of the wicked ones do not enter, and do not walk straight on into the way of the bad ones. Shun it, do not pass along by it; turn aside from it, and pass along. . . . Remove your foot from what is bad.”​—Proverbs 4:14, 15, 27.

Put Jehovah First

11. What blessings will you receive by walking in integrity and doing things Jehovah’s way?

¹¹ The course of wickedness is in strong contrast with the course of wisdom. Proverbs says that Jehovah is a “shield” for those walking in integrity and that he will “guard the very way of his loyal ones.” (Proverbs 2:7, 8) He sets the prospect of everlasting life before those who do right. “For the upright are the ones that will reside in the earth, and the blameless are the ones that will be left over in it.” (Proverbs 2:21) By putting Jehovah first, you will be richly blessed. “Honor Jehovah with your valuable things and with the firstfruits of all your produce. Then your stores of supply will be filled with plenty; and with new wine your own press vats will overflow.”​—Proverbs 3:9, 10.

12. What examples do we have of young people who put Jehovah first, and what rewards do they enjoy?

¹² Many young persons today really do this. They put Jehovah first in their life. They spend their youth in full-time service, working as pioneer ministers or serving in Bethel homes where they produce Bibles and books that help others to learn about God. Ask them if Jehovah has blessed them. From their heart they will tell you that he has done so abundantly and that they have far more in the way of spiritual riches than do their young peers who have made material wealth their goal.​—Proverbs 10:9; 15:16.

Moral Temptations

13, 14. (a) What other desire has Satan used? (b) Is this problem serious in your community today?

¹³ Advertisers use sex to sell their products. Satan has used illicit sex to tempt God’s servants. For example, thousands of Israelites, who had spent long years in the wilderness and finally arrived near the Promised Land, fell into fornication and lost their lives.​—Numbers 25:1-9.

¹⁴ People who do not want youth warned about this danger close their eyes to the conditions of today’s world. Filthy magazines, dirty films, sex shops, pornography and prostitution are seen along our public streets. The first few chapters of Proverbs contain strong warning against such immoral temptations.

15. What warning does Proverbs give regarding immorality?

¹⁵ They tell of an immoral woman who tempts inexperienced youths. We read: “For as a honeycomb the lips of a strange woman keep dripping, and her palate is smoother than oil. But the aftereffect from her is as bitter as wormwood; it is as sharp as a two-edged sword. Her feet are descending to death. . . . Keep your way far off from alongside her, and do not get near to the entrance of her house, that you may not give to others your dignity, nor your years to what is cruel.”​—Proverbs 5:3-14; 2:16-19; 6:27-29, 32.

16. What can happen to a person who does not immediately flee from immoral suggestions?

¹⁶ They also tell of an “inexperienced” young man, “in want of heart,” who listens to cunning and suggestive ideas and shamelessly loses all control. “By the smoothness of her lips she seduces him. All of a sudden he is going after her, like a bull that comes even to the slaughter, . . . and he has not known that it involves his very soul.” He is not the only one led out of Jehovah’s favor and down to death, for “those being killed by her are numerous.”​—Proverbs 7:6-27.

17. As Jehovah views it, how serious is fornication?

¹⁷ While these warnings are addressed to young men, they apply equally to young women. Whatever humans think of the outcome of fornication, Jehovah’s view is clear. It is a way of death. It can keep you out of the earthly paradise that God will restore. “What! Do you not know that unrighteous persons will not inherit God’s kingdom? Do not be misled. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men kept for unnatural purposes, nor men who lie with men . . . will inherit God’s kingdom.”​—1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Ephesians 5:5.

18. (a) Is the Bible’s counsel regarding sexual immorality a burden? Why do you so answer? (b) What good advice does Proverbs give in this matter?

¹⁸ No one should feel that applying the Bible’s wise counsel about sexual morality is a burden. It means fewer divorces, fewer broken homes, fewer delinquent children, less prostitution, fewer fits of jealousy, happier families and more joyful lives. In beautiful poetic language Proverbs recommends this wise course. It says not to seek pleasure in the street, neither from an immoral person nor from various persons, thus scattering your springs out-of-doors. It recommends that, when you are married, you rejoice with your own mate, rather than immorally ensnaring yourself with others. Any weakling can give in to the sex urge, but the course of a true Christian is to refrain from sexual relations until marriage and then to enjoy them only with your own marriage mate.​—Proverbs 5:15-23.

Work and Pride

19. What advice does Proverbs give regarding work?

¹⁹ Proverbs helps in other ways too. It recommends something that does not enthuse many young people​—becoming a hard worker. This applies in school, on a job, or in full-time Christian service. “Go to the ant,” it advises. “See its ways and become wise.” Like a busy ant, the Christian will give an honest day’s work without a boss’ having to watch him.​—Proverbs 6:6-11; Ephesians 6:5; Titus 2:9, 10; Hebrews 6:10-12.

20. (a) What else does Jehovah hate? (b) How would you apply this counsel in your own life?

²⁰ Also, it is important to be neither haughty nor a troublemaker. “There are six things that Jehovah does hate; yes, seven are things detestable to his soul: lofty eyes, a false tongue, and hands that are shedding innocent blood, a heart fabricating hurtful schemes, feet that are in a hurry to run to badness, a false witness that launches forth lies, and anyone sending forth contentions among brothers.”​—Proverbs 6:16-19.

Your Family

21. What counsel does Proverbs give you regarding parents, and why is this important?

²¹ Do not overlook the help you get from your family. Proverbs says: “Observe, O my son, the commandment of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother. . . . When you walk about, it will lead you; when you lie down, it will stand guard over you; and when you have waked up, it itself will make you its concern.” (Proverbs 6:20-22) This is especially true if your parents are servants of God. But even if they are not believers they have seen many things you have not yet seen, and their guidance can keep you out of a great deal of trouble.

22. (a) What can be said about the importance of confiding in your parents during adolescence? (b) What can you learn from Hebrews 12:11 and Proverbs 4:10-13?

²² By all means do not let adolescence​—the period between being a child and becoming an adult—​cause you to pull away from your parents, as so many young people have done. You may think your parents are old-fashioned, or “not with it.” But they can help you keep your balance during this period of change. Talk with them. Try to get them to listen to your problems. They do not want to hobble or cramp you on life’s highway, but they want to help make your course easier. It is true that young people want to do things their way and often resent counsel; yet their being humble will take most of the sting out of it. The humble person knows he makes mistakes, and he appreciates others’ efforts to help. Proverbs says: “Give a reproof [correction] to a wise person and he will love you.”​—Proverbs 9:8, 9; Hebrews 12:11; Proverbs 4:10-13.

23. As far as you are concerned, what are the main points of this lesson?

²³ So, godly wisdom is available for young persons today. Even if you are inexperienced you can learn and understand. Wisdom calls out to you. It speaks about “the foremost things” and “all other delights themselves cannot be made equal to it.” (Proverbs 8:6, 11) To gain knowledge and develop wisdom, you must study and dig, as you would for an exceptional treasure. “The one finding [wisdom] will certainly find life, and gets goodwill from Jehovah.”​—Proverbs 8:35.

Having read this article, you may also wish to read Proverbs, chapters 1 through 9, on which it is based.

Do You Remember These Points?

□ What help does the book of Proverbs offer today’s youth?

□ Why do so many persons refuse that help?

□ What effect should the availability of wisdom have on your life?

□ Against what temptation, common in today’s cities, does Proverbs warn?

□ Why is the Bible’s counsel regarding sexual morality no burden?

□ What help can young people get from their families?

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KNOWLEDGE, WISDOM AND UNDERSTANDING

The book of Proverbs has much to say about these three words. How do they differ?

KNOWLEDGE is familiarity with facts, which you may have learned through study, observation or personal experience. The wise person ‘treasures up knowledge’ and has a fund of it to draw upon.​—Proverbs 10:14.

WISDOM combines knowledge with sound judgment. It is the ability to use knowledge in a successful way, to solve problems and avoid dangers. It implies a breadth of knowledge and a depth of understanding that give soundness and clarity of judgment. If you had knowledge but did not know how to use it, you would lack wisdom. “Wisdom is the prime thing,” for without it knowledge is of little value.​—Proverbs 4:7.

UNDERSTANDING You now have an understanding of the difference between knowledge and wisdom​—you can distinguish or judge between them. You may follow a course because God commanded it, but if you understand the reason for it, the good purpose it serves and the benefits it brings, your determination becomes far stronger. Proverbs has practical information to help you understand not only what course is right or wrong but also why this is true.

Rearing Your Children to Love Jehovah

“My son, if your heart has become wise, my heart will rejoice, even mine.”​—Proverbs 23:15.

1. What special joy can parents have, and what should you as a parent do about it?

WHAT a joy it is to watch little children grow up and become mature servants of God! Step-by-step they develop curiosity, absorb knowledge, gain ability, side with Christian truth, develop maturity, dedicate themselves to God and become his faithful servants. If you are a parent, how can you help your children along this fine road? Obviously this takes effort. The apostle Paul asked how persons could “put faith in him of whom they have not heard,” and how can they hear unless someone teaches them?​—Romans 10:14.

2. How can we help our children to appreciate Jehovah God?

² Small children are full of wonder. A butterfly, a bird, a flower, a blade of grass, the sky, a star​—all such things intrigue them. What wonderful opportunities this gives us to speak of the Creator and of our reasons for being thankful to him! The psalmist wrote: “It is good to give thanks to Jehovah.” (Psalm 92:1) You can thank him for natural wonders, for material necessities and for the truth of his Word. Your children will observe your thankfulness and will never forget it.​—Psalm 8:3, 4; 19:1; Romans 1:20; Deuteronomy 8:10; Proverbs 22:6.

3. What is one fine way to teach our children? Give examples.

³ Little ones love stories. God knew this. He had many true stories recorded in the Bible​—stories that can teach even very young children about God’s ways. These show, for example, that we should have faith as did Abraham, trust Him the way Joshua and Caleb did, obey Him in youth as did Samuel and Timothy, and stand firm for our faith like young Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.a

4. What examples do we have of children who learned God’s ways, both today and in Bible times?

⁴ Children learn rapidly. They learn advertising slogans and many things that you sometimes wish they had not heard. How much more important it is to help them learn about God and his ways! Many persons have remarked on how children can give fine comments in Christian meetings, and how they can participate in the Theocratic Ministry School at a young age. Such youngsters are living examples of the value of the Bible’s instructions about training children. Israelite parents were to teach their children constantly, and even the “little ones” were brought to hear God’s law read. Their sons were to listen and to “learn to fear Jehovah your God.”​—Deuteronomy 31:12, 13; 6:5-9.

5, 6. How can you help your children to learn God’s ways?

⁵ You may know a great deal about God’s Word, but that does not mean that your children do. They do not inherit knowledge. It is up to you as a parent to teach them the wonderful things of God and to make this appealing, so that they will want to learn.

⁶ Do your children understand the doctrines of the Bible? Have they learned its principles for daily living? Do you have a regular family Bible study with them? If they are still small, have you studied Listening to the Great Teacher, with its forty-six subjects written on their level? If you have done that, and your children are growing up, have you studied with them Your Youth​—Getting the Best out of It, which provides outstanding information to help young people face life? The Bible says that “from infancy” young Timothy was taught such things. Jacob’s concern about “the pace of the children” on their way to Seir shows the importance of pacing yourself to their ability. Your study together should be at a level they can understand, and of a reasonable length for their age.​—2 Timothy 3:15; Genesis 33:14.

The Power of Truth

7, 8. (a) Why is knowledge of the truth so important? (b) How can parents help their children to appreciate Christian meetings?

⁷ God’s truth is a powerful force. It can change the thinking and personality of grown men. The Bible says to “put away the old personality which conforms to your former course of conduct and . . . be made new in the force actuating your mind.” (Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9, 10) Being that powerful, Christian truth can provide great protection for your children. Over and over again young persons express appreciation for the regular efforts their parents made to take them to meetings where God’s Word is discussed, whether they originally wanted to go or not. A teenager said: “I didn’t really want to go at first. I didn’t understand very much. Then I would get really excited because I found out: Wow, I’m learning about the Bible!”

⁸ Many parents prepare in advance with their children, so the children will understand. Others encourage their children to remember a few points from the meeting and talk about these on the way home. We can imagine such excited discussions as Israelite families returned from their worship at Jerusalem.​—Deuteronomy 31:10-13; Luke 2:41, 42.

Godly Service

9, 10. What can you do to help your children to appreciate and enjoy Christian service?

⁹ As to sharing in the public preaching work, your youngsters may look at godly service somewhat the way Jeremiah did: “Alas, O Sovereign Lord Jehovah! Here I actually do not know how to speak, for I am but a boy.” So, it is important to train them, step by step. In accord with their age and advancement they can ring the doorbell, present an invitation, read a Scripture text, present Bible-based publications at homes in their neighborhood, perhaps even conduct Bible studies.​—Jeremiah 1:6, 7.

¹⁰ Your own attitude will greatly affect your children. A young Witness says: “My mom really takes joy in the service. Every time she comes back she has something nice to relate.” When young people do extra chores so their mother can spend a month as a pioneer (full-time preacher), they feel they are a part of her activity and look forward to having such privileges themselves. A twenty-one-year-old says: “My parents always made it known that they thought pioneering was the finest way of life.” Another youth explained: “I don’t even remember a time when pioneering was not set as a goal.” Young people can rejoice and have happy experiences serving Jehovah, for he is “the happy God,” and Christ Jesus is “the happy and only Potentate.”​—1 Timothy 1:11; 6:15.

Appreciation

11-13. What are some of the advantages your faith provides for your children regarding: (a) fear of the future? (b) fear of death?

¹¹ It is important to make sure that your children appreciate the things they have that other people may not have.

¹² One thing they have is security. Today’s youth in general discuss the world’s problems in school, and see them on television. They talk about pollution, atomic war and the possible destruction of the world. Unlike them, young Witnesses have confidence and a feeling of security. They know that God will not let things go that far, but that he will “bring to ruin those ruining the earth.”​—Revelation 11:18.

¹³ Many of their friends are frightened by death. A thirteen-year-old said: “Just growing up and having the hope of dying doesn’t seem right.” Your youngsters know that the Bible says the dead “are conscious of nothing at all,” and that their “thoughts do perish,” so the dead could not be in torment. They also know that the Scriptures promise life​—that many people in their tombs will “come out,” for there will be a “resurrection on the last day.” Your youngsters can read these comforting statements in the Bible at Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10; Psalm 146:4; John 5:28, 29 and John 11:11-25.

14. Why should having the truth be of importance to your children?

¹⁴ Further, do your children realize the importance of the truth they have? A young Witness said: “What drew me to the truth is that that is what it is​—the truth. I always had to have things explained, I always asked: Why? The Bible is clear as day, you can really hold onto it.” Jesus said: “The truth will set you free.” It has freed thousands, not only from religious bondage but also from drugs, immorality, the danger of venereal disease, superstitions, false doctrines and the worries and troubles that mark this wicked world.​—John 8:32.

15. How should both parents and children be motivated by the truths stated in: (a) 1 John 4:9, 10? (b) 2 Peter 3:13?

¹⁵ Have you taught your children the importance of God’s love and mercy? Do they appreciate what it meant for him to send his Son to earth as a ransom? (1 John 4:9, 10; Romans 8:38, 39) Do they cherish the prospect of everlasting life in the earthly paradise? (2 Peter 3:13) Your own appreciation of such blessings will encourage your children to grow in appreciation of them. The Scriptures say that parents should fear God and keep his commandments “in order that it might go well with them and their sons to time indefinite!”​—Deuteronomy 5:29.

16. What should children be helped to realize about the value of God’s Word in their family?

¹⁶ Do your children realize what knowledge of God’s Word may have done for your family? Your children probably have schoolmates who, as a result of divorces, have two or three mothers or fathers. If yours is a united family, in which the parents have made a lifelong commitment to each other, do your children appreciate that this is in accord with Bible principles? (Hebrews 13:4) Do they realize that principles found in the Bible help them to have a sense of security, companionship, belonging, purpose, direction, achievement and personal worth that many young persons have never had?

17, 18. How can children see that God’s Word is of value to them: (a) in religiously divided families? (b) in single-parent homes?

¹⁷ But you may be thinking: ‘My family is divided​—my husband (or wife) does not apply such principles.’ That does not keep you from applying them. The Bible says unbelieving husbands “may be won without a word through the conduct of their wives.” If your unbelieving mate could be impressed by your good example, think of the effect your faithful application of godly principles could have on your children!​—1 Peter 3:1, 2.

¹⁸ Or you may be a single parent, having to rear your children alone. If so, acknowledge this problem to your children. Support one another. Let them see the difference between their life and that of other single-parent families they know. What a blessing they have to live in a home where drunkenness, alcoholism, fornication and other works of the flesh do not enter!​—1 Corinthians 6:9, 10; Galatians 5:19-21.

Wholesome Activities

19, 20. (a) How can parents help fill their children’s needs for communication and association? (b) With what results?

¹⁹ Children need play. One of the happy conditions the Bible associates with the restoration of Jerusalem’s temple was “boys and girls playing in her public squares.” (Zechariah 8:5) Children also need your time. Only by spending time with them, letting them talk, and really listening to what they have to say, can you have communication, learn of their problems and be of help. While Christian children do not celebrate certain holidays that have pagan origins, their parents often plan good times for them​—outings, get-togethers or other wholesome family fun. They get gifts from time to time throughout the year. Some families have a celebration when grandparents visit. Parents encourage wholesome association with other young Christians. If the family is isolated, youngsters can have pen pals they meet at Christian assemblies.

²⁰ One father often asks his children: “Do you feel deprived in any way because of your faith?” The answer: “Definitely not!” A youth, comparing his life with that of his schoolmates, said: “The only thing I’ve missed out on is a lot of trouble.”

Outside Help

21. While realizing that the training of children is the parents’ responsibility, how can others help?

²¹ The responsibility of teaching our children is our own responsibility. The Bible shows that the father is to take the lead, and the mother is to help. It says: “Listen, my son, to the discipline of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother.” (Proverbs 1:8; Ephesians 6:4) But this does not mean that others cannot help. The congregation is a family, and over and over again mature older men tell of the special help someone in the congregation offered when they were young. Zealous Witnesses remember with affection persons who took them in Christian service long ago. Young persons really appreciate it when older ones take such interest in them and help them stay in the right way.​—Proverbs 13:20.

Your Own Example

22. Of what importance is the example you set?

²² It is important for your children to see that you look to God for guidance and have made his Word a part of you​—that you really believe it and apply it to your life. (Psalm 143:10) They see your attitude. If you consider meetings a chore, pick at the elders, criticize members of the congregation and begrudge time spent in Jehovah’s service, it is likely that your children will follow your bad example. But if you view these theocratic arrangements as splendid blessings from Jehovah, it is likely that your children will too. Rearing children is not primarily doing a few big things but a great number of little ones. If you do the little things right each day, you probably will be able to handle any big ones that arise.​—Luke 16:10; Matthew 25:21.

23. How can your expectations affect your children?

²³ It is very important for your children to know the special place they have in your heart. They should know that you really love them, and that you would be disappointed if they failed to follow godly principles. Solomon wrote: “My son, if your heart has become wise, my heart will rejoice, even mine.” Also: “The father of a righteous one will without fail be joyful.” (Proverbs 23:15, 24) But what if​—as your children are growing up and perhaps feeling an urge toward independence—​they do something that you have discussed with them and thus they know that it is wrong in God’s sight? Do not be quick to give up on them or quit trying to help. Remember that they too are imperfect and may be going through a very difficult transitional time. Despite your disappointment, continue to show in an understanding, yet firm and clear, way that following God’s principles will truly be best for them.​—James 3:2.

24. What reward can parents hope for if they have reared their children according to godly principles?

²⁴ It is gratifying to see our children grow into fine young men and women, to see them take on their own responsibilities and apply in life things we tried to teach them. As Paul urged young Timothy, so we say to our children: “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.” (2 Timothy 2:15) Then we can say of our physical children, who will also have become our spiritual ones: “No greater cause for thankfulness do I have than these things, that I should be hearing that my children go on walking in the truth.”​—3 John 4.

[Footnotes]

Do You Remember These Points?

□ Why should we be faithful in teaching our children about God and his truth?

□ How can you make Christian meetings interesting for your children?

□ As loving parents, how will we lead our children, step-by-step, in godly service?

□ We want to be sure they appreciate what blessings?

[Box on page 27]

Children need correction, guidance and limits. The Bible says: “Foolishness is tied up with the heart of a boy.” (Proverbs 22:15) But when parents are interested enough to set limits and to see that their children understand these and stay within them, children feel safe​—their parents won’t let them do things that might harm them.

[Pictures on page 28, 29]

As a young person matures physically . . . parents can assist his spiritual advancement

Missionaries Who Will Fulfill Christ’s Commission

SHORTLY before ascending to the heavens, Jesus gave a commission to his followers. He said: “Go therefore and make disciples of people of all the nations, baptizing them . . . , teaching them to observe all the things I have commanded you.”​—Matthew 28:19, 20.

Jehovah’s Witnesses are keenly aware of that commission. Hence, in 1943, they opened the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead so as to train missionaries to spearhead the disciple-making work around the world. This school has played a pivotal role in the fulfillment of Jesus’ words in our days.

Gilead School is located in the United States of America, and its courses are taught in English. Witnesses from other language backgrounds have had to learn English so as to attend the school and become missionaries, and they have been happy to do so. Nevertheless, in September 1981, German-speaking Christians were delighted to hear of the opening of a Gilead Extension School in Wiesbaden, Germany, which would teach the Gilead course in the German language.

Two classes have now graduated from this Extension School. Has it been successful? Yes, indeed, if we are to judge by the happiness and enthusiasm reported from the graduation exercises of the second class, which were held on April 25, 1982.

Enthusiastic New Missionaries

The twenty-three students of this second German class came from Luxembourg, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Germany. Their assignments are taking them to Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia, Paraguay, Suriname and Zaire. In a letter they expressed their appreciation for this extension school. “It allowed us to concentrate completely on the spiritual food presented,” they said, “rather than having to struggle with the problems of language.”

All the 1,140 in attendance, as well as the students themselves, were aware that Jesus’ great commission to make disciples still applies. And now the students wanted to play a fuller part in this. One married couple said: “We accept our assignment to Brazil with grateful hearts and hope to put into operation all that we have learned here.”

Before departing for their assignments the students heard some fine last-minute advice from speakers with long experience in the Christian ministry. One of these was Werner Rudtke who gave comments based on Paul’s words to the Colossians: “Continue putting up with one another.” (Colossians 3:13) Egon Peter, a student at Gilead School in 1952, mentioned the tests they had taken during the course and reminded them of the important test to which God himself was subjecting them.​—Psalm 7:9.

One of their instructors, Dietrich Forster, warned them that they might meet up with opposition in their foreign assignments. However, they should never stoop to the level of the opposers, but always “keep conquering the evil with the good.” (Romans 12:9-21) Lothar Kaemner, another instructor and one-time missionary in Venezuela, reminded the students not to lose sight of their mission. “No man serving as a soldier involves himself in the commercial businesses of life,” said the apostle Paul. (2 Timothy 2:4) Christian missionaries should have the same dedication.

Some of Christendom’s representatives have given the term “missionary” a bad name because of their political meddling or other wrong conduct. Others, busy working in schools and hospitals, are undoubtedly providing services. But they are not fulfilling Christ’s commission. Dedicated Christians are grateful that the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead trains and sends out missionaries exclusively to make disciples and teach the Bible. And the graduates of the second Gilead Extension School in Germany are glad to have enjoyed the provisions of that historic school in their own language. Now they will be real Christian missionaries.

The Bible Tapes Are Appreciated

The album of eighteen cassettes, containing the entire Christian Greek Scriptures, is helping people everywhere to gain pleasure and benefit from listening to the Bible

From Oregon a woman writes: “As a mother of four I find little time to sit and read the Bible. With the aid of these tapes I may learn and be upbuilt even as I care for my household duties. I can’t express my thanks deeply enough for this blessing.”

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A letter from Arizona reports: “I find it to be the easiest way to read the Word of God, by listening to the spoken word and following through by reading along.”

You, too, can gain pleasure and benefit from listening to these Bible tapes. The eighteen of them, which contain the entire Greek Scriptures (New Testament), come in an attractive brown vinyl album. They will be delivered to you for only $30 (US).

Please send me, postpaid, the brown vinyl album with the entire Greek Scriptures (18 cassettes). I enclose $30 (US).