The Watchtower — February 1, 2007

Truthfulness​—Expected Only of Others?

“I HATE lies, and I hate being lied to!” exclaimed a 16-year-old girl. Most of us feel the same way. We like to think that information given to us​—whether by word of mouth or in written form—​is truthful. But do we tell the truth when we pass information on to others?

In a survey carried out in Germany, the vast majority of the respondents felt that “lying on minor issues in order to protect oneself or to protect others from harm is permissible, yes, even necessary so that people get along with one another.” And one journalist wrote: “To tell the truth and only the truth at all times is a noble ideal but boring.”

Could it be that we prefer that other people speak the truth yet feel that we at times have good reason not to speak the truth ourselves? Does it matter whether we tell the truth or not? What are the consequences of speaking what is not true?

Damage Done by Untruth

Consider the damage that untruth can do. Falsehood breeds distrust between marriage mates and among family members. Unfounded gossip can damage a person’s reputation. Cheating by employees raises operating costs and results in more expensive products. False claims on tax returns rob governments of needed revenues to provide public services. Fabrications by researchers ruin promising careers and tarnish the reputation of respected institutions. Dishonest get-rich-quick schemes divest gullible investors of their life savings or worse. No wonder the Bible tells us that among the things that are detestable to Jehovah God are “a false tongue” and “a false witness that launches forth lies”!​—Proverbs 6:16-19.

Widespread lying can cause damage both to individuals and to society as a whole. Few would dispute that fact. Why, then, do people deliberately tell what is untrue? And is every untruth a lie? We will consider the answers to these and other questions in the next article.

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Falsehood breeds distrust between marriage mates

Why Be Truthful?

AT 18 years of age, Manfred was an office trainee.a The company he worked for arranged for him and several other trainees to attend a vocational college two days each week. One day the class was dismissed earlier than scheduled. According to company rules, the trainees were to go back to work for the rest of the day. Instead, they all went off to have a good time, except Manfred, who returned to the workplace. By coincidence, the company executive in charge of the trainees came by. When he saw Manfred, he asked: “Why are you not in class today? And where are the other trainees?” How should Manfred respond?

Manfred’s predicament is typical. Should he tell the truth, or should he cover up for his classmates? To give a truthful answer would mean trouble for the others and make him unpopular. Is it all right to tell a lie under those circumstances? What would you have done? We will return to Manfred later, but let us first consider what is involved when we are called upon to decide whether to speak the truth or not.

Truth and Untruth​—A Fundamental Rivalry

At the start of mankind’s history, everything was based on truth. There was no twisting of facts, no manipulation or misrepresentation of the truth. Jehovah, the Creator, is “the God of truth.” His word is truth; he cannot lie, and he condemns lying and liars.​—Psalm 31:5; John 17:17; Titus 1:2.

That being the case, how did untruth come to be? Jesus Christ provided the authoritative answer when he told his religious opposers, who were seeking to kill him: “You are from your father the Devil, and you wish to do the desires of your father. That one was a manslayer when he began, and he did not stand fast in the truth, because truth is not in him. When he speaks the lie, he speaks according to his own disposition, because he is a liar and the father of the lie.” (John 8:44) Jesus, of course, was referring to the event in the garden of Eden when Satan induced the first human pair to disobey God and thus fall victim to sin and death.​—Genesis 3:1-5; Romans 5:12.

Jesus’ words clearly identify Satan as “the father of the lie,” the originator of lying and untruth. Satan continues to be the chief proponent of untruth and, in fact, is “misleading the entire inhabited earth.” He bears a heavy responsibility for the damage that widespread lying has done to humans today.​—Revelation 12:9.

The fundamental rivalry between truth and untruth, started by Satan the Devil, still rages today. It permeates all levels of human society and affects every individual. The way a person lives puts him on one side of the issue or the other. Those on God’s side base their life course on the truth of God’s Word, the Bible. Anyone who does not follow the way of the truth falls, knowingly or unknowingly, into the hands of Satan because “the whole world is lying in the power of the wicked one.”​—1 John 5:19; Matthew 7:13, 14.

Why the Tendency to Lie?

The fact that “the whole world” lies in the power of Satan tells us why many people lie. But we might ask, ‘Why did Satan, “the father of the lie,” do so?’ Satan knew that Jehovah is the rightful Sovereign of all that He has created, including the first human pair. Yet, Satan desired for himself this lofty and unique position, something to which he was not entitled. Out of greed and selfish ambition, he schemed to usurp Jehovah’s place. To achieve this, Satan resorted to lies and deceit.​—1 Timothy 3:6.

What about today? Do you not agree that greed and selfish ambition are still very much the motives that impel many people to lie? Greedy business, corrupt politics, and false religion are rife with deception, falsehood, manipulation, and fraud. Why? Is it not because people are often motivated by greed and ambition to get ahead or to reach out for wealth, power, or position to which they are not entitled? A wise ruler, King Solomon of ancient Israel, warned: “He that is hastening to gain riches will not remain innocent.” (Proverbs 28:20) And the apostle Paul wrote: “The love of money is a root of all sorts of injurious things.” (1 Timothy 6:10) The same could surely be said of the inordinate desire for power or position.

Another factor behind lying is fear​—fear of the consequences or of what others may think if the truth is told. It is only natural that people wish to be liked or accepted by others. This desire, however, can move them to distort the truth, even if only a little, in order to cover up shortcomings, to hide unflattering details, or simply to leave a good impression. Appropriately, Solomon wrote: “Trembling at men is what lays a snare, but he that is trusting in Jehovah will be protected.”​—Proverbs 29:25.

Loyalty to the God of Truth

What did Manfred say when the company executive asked him for an explanation? Manfred told the truth. He said: “The teacher dismissed us early for the day, so I came to work. As for the others, I cannot speak for them. Perhaps you could ask them personally.”

Manfred could have given a clever, misleading answer, thus making himself popular with the other trainees. But he had good reasons for sticking loyally to the truth. Manfred is one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His honesty preserved his clean conscience. It also won him the trust of his employer. As part of his training, Manfred was assigned to the jewelry department, where trainees were not normally allowed to work. Some 15 years later when Manfred was promoted to a position of responsibility in the company, the same executive phoned to congratulate him and to recount this incident of integrity to the truth.

Since Jehovah is the God of truth, anyone wishing to have a close relationship with him must “put away falsehood” and “speak truth.” A servant of God ought to love truth. “A faithful witness is one that will not lie,” wrote the wise man. What, though, is a lie?​—Ephesians 4:25; Proverbs 14:5.

What Is a Lie?

Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth is a lie. Why not? A dictionary defines a lie as “an assertion of something known or believed by the speaker to be untrue with intent to deceive.” Yes, lying includes the intention to deceive someone. Hence, to speak an untruth unwittingly​—such as giving someone incorrect facts or figures by mistake—​is not the same as to tell a lie.

Moreover, we need to consider whether the person asking for information is entitled to a comprehensive answer. For instance, suppose Manfred had been asked the same questions by an executive of another company. Would Manfred have been obliged to tell him everything? Not really. Since that executive had no right to such information, Manfred would have had no obligation to provide it. Of course, even in this case, it would have been wrong for him to tell a lie.

What example did Jesus Christ set in this regard? On one occasion, Jesus was conversing with some unbelievers who showed interest in his travel plans. “Pass on over from here and go into Judea,” they advised him. What was Jesus’ reply? “You go up to the festival [in Jerusalem]; I am not yet going up to this festival, because my due time has not yet fully come.” Shortly thereafter, Jesus did travel to Jerusalem for the festival. Why did he answer that way? They were not entitled to know the exact details of his whereabouts. So while Jesus did not utter an untruth, he gave them an incomplete answer in order to limit the possible harm they could do to him or to his followers. This was not a lie, for the apostle Peter wrote about Christ: “He committed no sin, nor was deception found in his mouth.”​—John 7:1-13; 1 Peter 2:22.

What about Peter himself? On the night of Jesus’ arrest, did not Peter lie three times and deny knowing Jesus? Yes, Peter caved in to fear of man and lied. But he immediately “wept bitterly” and repented, and his sin was forgiven. Moreover, he learned from his mistake. Some days later, he spoke in public about Jesus and resolutely refused to stop when threatened by the Jewish authorities in Jerusalem. Surely Peter’s temporary setback and quick recovery should be an encouragement to all of us, who can easily be overwhelmed in a moment of weakness and stumble in word or deed.​—Matthew 26:69-75; Acts 4:18-20; 5:27-32; James 3:2.

Truth Will Be Established Forever

“It is the lip of truth that will be firmly established forever, but the tongue of falsehood will be only as long as a moment,” explains Proverbs 12:19. Yes, truthful speech is marked by durability and permanence. And human relationships are more stable and satisfying when people are committed to speaking the truth and acting in harmony with it. Indeed, truthfulness brings immediate rewards. These include a clean conscience, a good reputation, and strong relationships in marriage, in the family, among friends, and even in business.

Lies, on the other hand, cannot stand the test of time. A tongue that utters falsehood may deceive for a while, but untruth does not prevail in the long term. Furthermore, Jehovah, the God of truth, has set a time limit for the toleration of untruth and of those who promote lies. The Bible promises that Jehovah will wipe out the influence of Satan the Devil, the father of the lie, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth. Jehovah will soon put an end to all lies and liars.​—Revelation 21:8.

What a relief it will be when at last “the lip of truth” will be firmly established forever!

[Footnote]

[Blurb on page 5]

Greed and selfish ambition are the motives that impel many people to lie

[Blurb on page 6]

Every lie is an untruth, but not every untruth is a lie

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What do we learn from Peter’s denial of Christ?

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Speaking the truth makes for stable and satisfying relationships

What Can You Learn From Children?

“YOU’RE acting like a child!” If those words were directed at us, we would likely be offended. Adorable as they are, little children clearly lack the maturity, experience, and wisdom generally associated with age.​—Job 12:12.

Nevertheless, on one occasion Jesus told his disciples: “Truly I say to you, Unless you turn around and become as young children, you will by no means enter into the kingdom of the heavens.” (Matthew 18:3) What did Jesus mean? What qualities do young children possess that adults do well to imitate?

Cultivating Childlike Humility

Consider the situation that prompted Jesus’ remarks. Having arrived in Capernaum after a long journey, Jesus asked his disciples: “What were you arguing over on the road?” The embarrassed disciples remained silent, for they had argued among themselves about which one of them was greater. Finally, they mustered up the courage to ask Jesus: “Who really is greatest in the kingdom of the heavens?”​—Mark 9:33, 34; Matthew 18:1.

It may seem surprising that after being with Jesus for nearly three years, the disciples would argue about position or rank. However, they had been raised in the Jewish religion, which placed great importance on such matters. Evidently, this religious background, coupled with human imperfection, influenced the disciples’ thinking.

Jesus sat down, called the disciples to him, and said: “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last of all and minister of all.” (Mark 9:35) These words likely dumbfounded them. Jesus’ reasoning directly contradicted Jewish notions of greatness! Jesus then called a little child to his side. Warmly embracing the child, he drove home his point: “Truly I say to you, Unless you turn around and become as young children, you will by no means enter into the kingdom of the heavens. Therefore, whoever will humble himself like this young child is the one that is the greatest in the kingdom of the heavens.”​—Matthew 18:3, 4.

What a profound object lesson in humility! Picture the scene. A group of large, solemn adult men surrounding one small child, their eyes firmly fixed on the child. How timid and trusting the child was! How free of rivalry and malice! How submissive and unassuming! Yes, the little child beautifully epitomized the godly quality of humility.

Jesus’ point is clear. All of us must cultivate childlike humility if we are to inherit God’s Kingdom. In Jehovah’s family arrangement, there is no place for competitive strife or pride. (Galatians 5:26) In fact, these are the very traits that prompted Satan the Devil to rebel against God in the first place. No wonder Jehovah hates them!​—Proverbs 8:13.

True Christians seek to serve, not to exercise power. No matter how unpleasant the task or how lowly the recipient, true humility moves us to minister to others. Such humble service brings rich rewards. Says Jesus: “Whoever receives one of such young children on the basis of my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives, not me only, but also him that sent me forth.” (Mark 9:37) Cultivating a generous, humble, childlike spirit unites us with the highest Personage in the universe and his Son. (John 17:20, 21; 1 Peter 5:5) We will reap the happiness that comes from giving. (Acts 20:35) And we have the satisfaction of contributing to the peace and unity evident among God’s people.​—Ephesians 4:1-3.

Teachable and Trusting

Jesus next highlights another lesson that adults can learn from children: “Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a young child will by no means enter into it.” (Mark 10:15) Children are not only humble; they are teachable. “They soak up information like sponges,” says one mother.

Thus, to inherit God’s Kingdom, we must take in and obey the Kingdom message. (1 Thessalonians 2:13) Like newborn infants, we must “form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word, that through it [we] may grow to salvation.” (1 Peter 2:2) What, then, if a Bible teaching seems hard to understand? “Children keep on asking ‘Why?’ until they find satisfying answers to their questions,” observes one child-care worker. We do well to imitate their example. So keep studying. Talk to experienced Christians. Ask Jehovah for wisdom. (James 1:5) Doubtless, your prayerful persistence will in time be rewarded.​—Matthew 7:7-11.

Some, though, may wonder, ‘Could not teachable people be easily misled?’ Not if they have reliable guidance. For example, children instinctively turn to their parents for guidance. “Parents prove that they can be trusted by protecting and providing for their children on a daily basis,” says one father. Surely we have similar reasons to trust our heavenly Father, Jehovah. (James 1:17; 1 John 4:9, 10) Jehovah gives us unfailing guidance through his written Word. His holy spirit and organization comfort and support us. (Matthew 24:45-47; John 14:26) Drawing on these provisions will keep us safe from spiritual harm.​—Psalm 91:1-16.

Cultivating childlike trust in God also gives us peace of mind. One Bible scholar observes: “When we are children we set out on a journey with no means of paying the fare, and with no idea of how to get to our journey’s end, and yet it never enters our heads to doubt that our parents will bring us safely there.” Do we have similar trust in Jehovah as we journey through life?​—Isaiah 41:10.

Implicit trust in God helps us to avoid attitudes and actions that could endanger our spirituality. Instead, we have full confidence in Jesus’ words that our heavenly Father knows our deeds and that as long as we seek first the Kingdom and God’s righteousness, God will care for us. This will help us to resist the temptation to focus on material concerns at the expense of spiritual responsibilities.​—Matthew 6:19-34.

“Babes as to Badness”

Although born imperfect, little children are refreshingly pure in heart and mind. For this reason, the Bible urges Christians: “Be babes as to badness.”​—1 Corinthians 14:20.

Consider five-year-old Monique, who excitedly told her mother: “My new friend, Sarah, has curly hair just like mine!” Sarah’s different skin color and ethnicity were not mentioned. Says one parent: “Little children are color-blind. They have no idea of race or prejudice.” In this respect, how beautifully children reflect the viewpoint of our impartial God, who loves people of all nations.​—Acts 10:34, 35.

Children also possess a remarkable capacity to forgive. Says one parent: “When young Jack and Levi fight, we tell them to apologize, and soon they are again playing happily. They don’t brood, dredge up the past, or make demands before extending forgiveness. They just move on.” What a fine example for adults to imitate!​—Colossians 3:13.

In addition, little children readily acknowledge God’s existence. (Hebrews 11:6) Their natural candor often moves them to witness boldly to others. (2 Kings 5:2, 3) Their simple, heartfelt prayers can touch the hardest of hearts. And when under temptation, they can display remarkable moral strength. What precious gifts little children are!​—Psalm 127:3, 4.

Beauty Restored

You may wonder, ‘Is it possible for adults to recapture the beautiful qualities associated with childhood?’ The simple and reassuring answer is yes! Surely Jesus’ command to “become as young children” proves that it is possible.​—Matthew 18:3.

To illustrate: A team of art restorers may work to repair a priceless masterpiece. In the process, they remove layers of built-up grime and reverse previous crude restoration attempts. After much patient effort by the restorers, the original artwork’s rich colors and natural beauty are revealed for all to see. Similarly, with persistent effort, the help of Jehovah’s holy spirit, and the loving support of the Christian congregation, we can recapture the beautiful qualities that blossomed naturally when we were children.​—Ephesians 5:1.

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Children are humble by nature

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Young children are not prejudiced, and they quickly forgive and forget

Life Story

Why I Delight in Making Disciples

As told by Pamela Moseley

War was raging over England in 1941 when my mother took me to Leicester to a convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses. We heard Joseph Rutherford’s special talk about children. When Mother and I were baptized at that convention, I noticed that those who had helped us to progress spiritually were very happy. I did not realize then how much joy comes from making disciples of Jesus Christ.

OUR progress toward becoming disciples started the year before. I still remember that dreadful day in September 1939 when World War II broke out. I saw tears streaming down my mother’s cheeks as she kept asking, “Why can the world not find peace?” My parents had served in the military during World War I and had experienced its horrors. Mother took her question to the Anglican minister in Bristol. He merely said: “There have always been wars and always will be.”

Shortly afterward, however, an elderly lady visited our home. She was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. My mother asked her the same question: “Why can the world not find peace?” The Witness explained that wars are part of the sign that we are living in the conclusion of this violent system of things. (Matthew 24:3-14) Soon her daughter was studying the Bible with us. The two of them were among those happy observers at our baptism. Why does making disciples make people so happy? Later, I learned why. Let me tell you some of what I have learned in more than 65 years of making disciples.

Discovering the Joy of Teaching

I began sharing in Kingdom preaching in Bristol when I was 11 years old. A brother gave me a phonograph and a testimony card and said: “Now, you visit all the homes on that side of the street.” So off I went, all by myself. Of course, I was very nervous. I played a recorded Bible talk and then showed the householder the testimony card, which invited people to accept Bible literature.

Beginning in the 1950’s, greater emphasis was placed on reading from the Bible during our house-to-house visits. At first, my timid nature made conversing with strangers and explaining Bible texts difficult for me. But I eventually gained confidence. That was when I really started to enjoy the ministry. Some people had viewed us as mere booksellers, but when we read and explained Bible texts to them, they recognized us as teachers of God’s Word. I enjoyed doing this so much that I wanted to have a greater share. So in September 1955, I entered the full-time ministry as a pioneer.

Persistence Brings Rewards

One of the first lessons I learned was that kind persistence can bring rewards. On one occasion, I left a copy of the Watchtower magazine with a woman, Violet Morice. When I returned to see her, she opened the door wide, folded her arms, and listened intently as I explained the Scriptures to her. Each time I called, she seemed genuinely interested. However, when I offered her a regular Bible study, she said: “No. When the children are older, I’ll look into it.” How disappointed I was! The Bible speaks of “a time to seek and a time to give up as lost.” (Ecclesiastes 3:6) I decided not to give up.

A month later, I returned and considered some more scriptures with Violet. Before long, she was having a weekly Bible study on her doorstep. Finally she said: “I think you had better come in, don’t you?” What a wonderful fellow believer and personal friend Violet became! Yes, Violet was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

One day Violet was shocked to learn that her husband had sold their home without her knowledge and had abandoned her. Happily, with the help of a Witness friend, she obtained another home that very afternoon. Out of gratitude to Jehovah, she decided to spend the rest of her life as a pioneer. When I saw Jehovah’s spirit fill her with zeal for true worship, I realized why making disciples results in such happiness. Yes, this would be my lifework!

In 1957, Mary Robinson and I were assigned to pioneer in the industrial area of Rutherglen in Glasgow, Scotland. We preached in fog, wind, rain, and snow, but it was worth it. One day I met Jessie. I enjoyed studying the Bible with her. Her husband, Wally, was a Communist, and he avoided me at first. When he studied the Bible and realized that only God’s Kingdom will bring about ideal conditions among people, he was thrilled. In time, both became disciple makers.

First Reactions Can Be Deceptive

We later received a new assignment to Paisley, Scotland. One day while I was preaching there, a lady shut the door in my face. But soon she came looking for me in order to apologize. When I returned the next week, she said: “I felt as though I had shut the door in God’s face. I just had to go and look for you.” Her name was Pearl. She told me that she had been so disillusioned with friends and relatives that she had prayed to God for a true friend. “And then you came to the door,” she said. “Now I realize that you must be that true friend.”

To be Pearl’s friend wasn’t easy. She lived at the top of a steep hill, and I had to climb it on foot. When I went to her home to take her to her first meeting, wind and rain nearly swept me off my feet. I threw away my umbrella when it ripped apart. Just six months after shutting the door in my face, Pearl symbolized her dedication to God by water baptism.

Soon afterward, her husband decided to study the Bible, and within a short time, he accompanied me in the house-to-house ministry. As usual, it was raining. “Don’t worry,” he said. “I stand in weather like this for hours to watch football, so I can certainly stand in the rain for Jehovah.” I have always admired the tenacity of the Scots.

How rewarding it has been for me to return decades later and see that most of those with whom I studied are still enduring in the faith! That is the joy of making disciples. (1 Thessalonians 2:17-20) In 1966, after more than eight years of pioneering in Scotland, I was invited to the Watchtower Bible School of Gilead to be trained as a missionary.

In a Foreign Field

I was assigned to Bolivia, to the tropical town of Santa Cruz, where there was a congregation of about 50. The town reminded me of the Wild West as depicted in Hollywood films. Looking back, I think that I have been quite an ordinary missionary. I have never been attacked by crocodiles, surrounded by violent mobs, lost in the desert, or shipwrecked on the high seas. Yet, for me, making disciples has been more thrilling.

One of the first women with whom I studied the Bible in Santa Cruz was Antonia. Teaching in Spanish was a struggle for me. Once, Antonia’s little boy said: “Mummy, does she make mistakes on purpose to make us laugh?” Antonia eventually became a disciple, and so did Yolanda, her daughter. Yolanda had a friend, a law student nicknamed Dito, who also began studying the Bible and attending our meetings. Working with him, I learned something else about teaching Bible truth: Sometimes people need a gentle push.

When Dito began missing his studies, I said: “Dito, Jehovah does not obligate you to support his Kingdom. You have to choose.” When he replied that he wanted to serve God, I said: “You have pictures here of a revolutionary leader. Would a visitor who sees them conclude that you have chosen to support God’s Kingdom?” That was the gentle push he needed.

Two weeks later, a revolution broke out, and a gunfight started between the university students and the police. “Let’s get out of here!” Dito shouted to his friend. “No! This is our great day that we have waited for,” replied his companion, grabbing a rifle and making for the rooftop of the university. He was one of eight of Dito’s friends who died that day. Can you imagine how happy it makes me to see this man, Dito, who might have died if he had not decided to become a true Christian?

Seeing Jehovah’s Spirit in Action

One day I was passing by a door, believing that we had already visited that home, when the lady of the house called out to me. Her name was Ignacia. She knew about Jehovah’s Witnesses, but severe opposition from her husband​—a burly police officer named Adalberto—​prevented her from progressing spiritually. She was confused about many basic Bible teachings, so I began studying the Bible with her. Even though Adalberto was determined to stop these Bible studies, I was able to talk with him for quite a long time about other subjects. It was the first step to our becoming friends.

Imagine my joy at seeing Ignacia become a lovely member of the congregation, attending to the spiritual and physical well-being of many in need of consolation. In time, her husband and three of their children became Witnesses. In fact, when Adalberto finally grasped the meaning of the good news, he went back to the police station and spoke with such enthusiasm that he obtained 200 subscriptions to The Watchtower and Awake! from the policemen.

Jehovah Makes It Grow

After serving in Santa Cruz for six years, I was assigned to Bolivia’s principal city, La Paz, where I spent the next 25 years. In the early 1970’s, the branch home of Jehovah’s Witnesses in La Paz had a total of only 12 members. As the preaching work expanded, requiring larger facilities, a new branch building was constructed in the rapidly growing city of Santa Cruz. The branch was relocated there in 1998, and I was invited to become a member of the branch staff, now consisting of over 50 members.

The single congregation that existed in Santa Cruz back in 1966 had become more than 50 congregations. The 640 Witnesses that were in all of Bolivia then have become almost 18,000 today!

Happily, my assignment in Bolivia has been productive. However, I always feel encouraged by the faithfulness of fellow Christians everywhere. We all rejoice at seeing Jehovah’s blessing on the Kingdom-preaching activity. It surely is a delight to have a share in the work of making disciples.​—Matthew 28:19, 20.

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Pioneering in Scotland

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Serving at the branch office in Bolivia; (inset) at the graduation of the 42nd class of Gilead

Amos​—A Gatherer or a Nipper of Figs?

BACK in the ninth century B.C.E., the prophet Amos was commanded by wicked Amaziah, a calf-worshipping priest, to stop prophesying in Israel. Amos objected, stating: “I was a herdsman and a nipper of figs of sycamore trees. And Jehovah proceeded to take me from following the flock, and Jehovah went on to say to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.’” (Amos 7:14, 15) Yes, Jehovah sent Amos as a prophet; it was not his own idea. But what did Amos mean when he said that he was “a nipper” of figs of sycamore trees?

The Hebrew expression so translated appears just this one time in the New World Translation. Other Bible translations render the term “gatherer,” “cultivator,” “dresser,” or “grower,” rather than “nipper,” of sycamore figs. However, the journal Economic Botany says that an appropriate translation of the term would be “piercer” because this word indicates a special action of the cultivator of sycamore figs.

The practice of nipping, or piercing, that is, making small gashes in sycamore figs, has been well-known in Egypt and Cyprus since very early times. Piercing, or nipping, is no longer practiced in modern-day Israel because other varieties of figs are grown in that land. However, nipping was practiced by the Israelites in Amos’ day, since the sycamores that grew in Israel at that time descended from the Egyptian varieties.

Apparently, piercing figs makes them absorb water and become juicy. It also increases the production of ethylene gas, which accelerates the ripening process, resulting in larger and sweeter fruit. In addition, parasite wasps do not spoil the fruit because it ripens rapidly.

In spite of his lowly background as a shepherd and a nipper of figs, Amos was not intimidated by his enemies. Rather, he courageously declared Jehovah’s judgment message against Israel. What a fine example for God’s servants today, who must likewise declare an unpopular message!​—Matthew 5:11, 12; 10:22.

Jehovah Is an Appreciative God

“God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name.”​—HEBREWS 6:10.

1. How did Jehovah show his appreciation for the Moabitess Ruth?

JEHOVAH deeply appreciates the efforts of those who sincerely seek to do his will, and he richly rewards them. (Hebrews 11:6) The faithful man Boaz was acquainted with this beautiful facet of God’s personality, for he said to the Moabitess Ruth, who lovingly cared for her widowed mother-in-law: “May Jehovah reward the way you act, and may there come to be a perfect wage for you from Jehovah.” (Ruth 2:12) Was Ruth blessed by God? Absolutely! Why, her story is recorded in the Bible! Furthermore, she married Boaz and became an ancestress of both King David and Jesus Christ. (Ruth 4:13, 17; Matthew 1:5, 6, 16) That example is but one of many in the Bible showing Jehovah’s appreciation for his servants.

2, 3. (a) What makes Jehovah’s expressions of appreciation remarkable? (b) Why is Jehovah able to express true appreciation? Illustrate.

² Jehovah would consider it unrighteous on his part if he were to show a lack of appreciation. Says Hebrews 6:10: “God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name, in that you have ministered to the holy ones and continue ministering.” What makes this statement remarkable is that God shows appreciation for devoted people even though they are sinners and fall short of his glory.​—Romans 3:23.

³ Because of our imperfection, we may feel that our deeds of godly devotion are insignificant and unworthy of God’s blessing. Jehovah, though, fully understands our motives and circumstances, and he truly values our whole-souled service. (Matthew 22:37) To illustrate: A mother finds a gift​—an inexpensive necklace—​on her table. She could view the gift as of little value and toss it aside. However, the accompanying card reveals that the gift is from her little girl, who spent all her savings to buy it. The mother now sees the gift in a new light. Perhaps with tears in her eyes, she embraces her child and expresses her heartfelt appreciation.

4, 5. How did Jesus imitate Jehovah in showing appreciation?

⁴ Being fully aware of our motives and limitations, Jehovah appreciates it when we give him our best, whether that is a little or a lot. In this regard, Jesus was a perfect reflection of his Father. Recall the Bible account about the widow’s mite. “As [Jesus] looked up he saw the rich dropping their gifts into the treasury chests. Then he saw a certain needy widow drop two small coins of very little value there, and he said: ‘I tell you truthfully, This widow, although poor, dropped in more than they all did. For all these dropped in gifts out of their surplus, but this woman out of her want dropped in all the means of living she had.’”​—Luke 21:1-4.

⁵ Yes, knowing the woman’s circumstances​—that she was widowed and poor—​Jesus understood the true value of her gift, and he was moved with appreciation. The same can be said of Jehovah. (John 14:9) Is it not encouraging to know that whatever your circumstances, you can find favor in the eyes of our appreciative God and of his Son?

Jehovah Rewards a God-Fearing Ethiopian

6, 7. Why and how did Jehovah demonstrate his appreciation toward Ebed-melech?

⁶ That Jehovah shows his appreciation for those who do his will is repeatedly demonstrated in the Scriptures. Consider his dealings with the God-fearing Ethiopian Ebed-melech, a contemporary of Jeremiah and a servant in the household of unfaithful King Zedekiah of Judah. Ebed-melech learned that the princes of Judah had wrongly charged the prophet Jeremiah with sedition and had thrown him into a cistern, there to die without food. (Jeremiah 38:1-7) Knowing that Jeremiah was bitterly hated because of the message he preached, Ebed-melech risked his own life and appealed to the king. Courageously, the Ethiopian spoke: “O my lord the king, these men have done bad in all that they have done to Jeremiah the prophet, whom they have thrown into the cistern, so that he will die where he is because of the famine.” At the king’s command, Ebed-melech took 30 men and rescued God’s prophet.​—Jeremiah 38:8-13.

⁷ Jehovah saw that Ebed-melech acted in faith, which helped him overcome any fear he might have had. Thus, Jehovah showed his appreciation and said to Ebed-melech through Jeremiah: “Here I am bringing true my words upon this city for calamity and not for good . . . And I will deliver you in that day, . . . and you will not be given into the hand of the men of whom you yourself are scared. For I shall without fail furnish you an escape . . . ; and you will certainly come to have your soul as a spoil, because you have trusted in me.” (Jeremiah 39:16-18) Yes, Jehovah delivered Ebed-melech, as well as Jeremiah, from the wicked princes of Judah and later from the Babylonians, who razed Jerusalem. “[Jehovah] is guarding the souls of his loyal ones; out of the hand of the wicked ones he delivers them,” says Psalm 97:10.

“Your Father Who Looks On in Secret Will Repay You”

8, 9. As demonstrated by Jesus, what kind of prayers does Jehovah appreciate?

⁸ Another evidence that Jehovah appreciates and values our expressions of godly devotion can be seen in what the Bible says about prayer. “The prayer of the upright ones is a pleasure to [God],” noted the wise man. (Proverbs 15:8) In Jesus’ day many religious leaders prayed publicly, not out of genuine piety, but out of a desire to impress men. “They are having their reward in full,” said Jesus. “However, when you pray,” he instructed his followers, “go into your private room and, after shutting your door, pray to your Father who is in secret; then your Father who looks on in secret will repay you.”​—Matthew 6:5, 6.

⁹ Of course, Jesus was not condemning public prayer, for he himself prayed publicly on certain occasions. (Luke 9:16) Jehovah deeply appreciates it when we pray to him from a sincere heart, with no thought of impressing others. Our private prayers, in fact, are a good indicator of the depth of our love for God and our trust in him. Hence, it comes as no surprise that Jesus often sought out private places to pray. Once, he did this “early in the morning, while it was still dark.” At another time, “he went up into the mountain by himself to pray.” And before choosing his 12 apostles, Jesus spent the whole night alone in prayer.​—Mark 1:35; Matthew 14:23; Luke 6:12, 13.

10. When our prayers reflect sincerity and depth of feeling, of what may we be certain?

¹⁰ Imagine how closely Jehovah must have listened to his Son’s heartfelt expressions! Indeed, Jesus at times prayed “with strong outcries and tears, and he was favorably heard for his godly fear.” (Hebrews 5:7; Luke 22:41-44) When our prayers reflect such sincerity and depth of feeling, we may be certain that our heavenly Father listens closely and appreciatively. Yes, “Jehovah is near to all those . . . who call upon him in trueness.”​—Psalm 145:18.

11. How does Jehovah feel about what we do in private?

¹¹ If Jehovah appreciates it when we pray to him in secret, how he must appreciate it when we obey him in secret! Yes, Jehovah is aware of what we do in private. (1 Peter 3:12) Indeed, our being faithful and obedient when we are alone is a good indication that we have “a complete heart” toward Jehovah, one that is pure in motive and that is firm for what is right. (1 Chronicles 28:9) How such conduct makes Jehovah’s heart rejoice!​—Proverbs 27:11; 1 John 3:22.

12, 13. How can we guard our mind and heart and be like the faithful disciple Nathanael?

¹² Consequently, faithful Christians guard against secret sins that corrupt the mind and heart, such as the viewing of pornography and violence. While some sins can be hidden from humans, we realize that “all things are naked and openly exposed to the eyes of him with whom we have an accounting.” (Hebrews 4:13; Luke 8:17) By striving to avoid things that displease Jehovah, we hold a clean conscience and delight in knowing that we have God’s approval. Yes, there is no doubt that Jehovah truly appreciates the person “who is walking faultlessly and practicing righteousness and speaking the truth in his heart.”​—Psalm 15:1, 2.

¹³ How, though, can we guard our mind and heart in a world that is saturated with badness? (Proverbs 4:23; Ephesians 2:2) In addition to taking full advantage of all spiritual provisions, we must make every effort to reject what is bad and do what is good, acting quickly so that improper desires do not become fertile and give birth to sin. (James 1:14, 15) Think how happy you would be if Jesus said of you what he said of Nathanael: “See, [a man] in whom there is no deceit.” (John 1:47) Nathanael, also called Bartholomew, was later privileged to become one of Jesus’ 12 apostles.​—Mark 3:16-19.

“A Merciful and Faithful High Priest”

14. How did Jesus’ response to Mary’s gesture compare with that of others?

¹⁴ Being “the image of the invisible God,” Jehovah, Jesus always perfectly imitates his Father in showing appreciation for those who serve God out of a clean heart. (Colossians 1:15) For example, five days before surrendering his life, Jesus and some of his disciples were guests in the home of Simon of Bethany. During the evening, Mary, the sister of Lazarus and Martha, “took a pound of perfumed oil, genuine nard, very costly” (worth about a year’s wages), and poured it onto Jesus’ head and feet. (John 12:3) “Why this waste?” said some. Jesus, however, saw Mary’s gesture in a very different light. He viewed it as an act of great generosity and of deep significance in view of his imminent death and burial. Hence, rather than criticize Mary, Jesus honored her. “Wherever this good news is preached in all the world,” he said, “what this woman did shall also be told as a remembrance of her.”​—Matthew 26:6-13.

15, 16. How do we benefit by Jesus’ having lived and served God as a human?

¹⁵ How privileged we are to have such an appreciative person as Jesus as our Leader! In fact, Jesus’ life as a human prepared him for the work Jehovah had in store for him​—serving as High Priest and King, first of the congregation of anointed ones and then of the world.​—Colossians 1:13; Hebrews 7:26; Revelation 11:15.

¹⁶ Before coming to earth, Jesus already had a deep interest in and a special fondness for mankind. (Proverbs 8:31) By living as a human, he came to appreciate more fully the trials we experience in our service to God. “[Jesus] was obliged to become like his ‘brothers’ in all respects,” wrote the apostle Paul, “that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest . . . For in that he himself has suffered when being put to the test, he is able to come to the aid of those who are being put to the test.” Jesus can “sympathize with our weaknesses” because he “has been tested in all respects like ourselves, but without sin.”​—Hebrews 2:17, 18; 4:15, 16.

17, 18. (a) What do the letters to the seven congregations in Asia Minor reveal about Jesus’ depth of appreciation? (b) For what were those anointed Christians being prepared?

¹⁷ The heightened appreciation Jesus had for his followers’ trials became evident after he was resurrected. Consider his letters to the seven congregations in Asia Minor, as penned by the apostle John. To the congregation in Smyrna, Jesus said: “I know your tribulation and poverty.” Here, Jesus was saying, in effect, ‘I fully understand your problems; I really know what you are going through.’ Then, with both the compassion and the authority borne of his own suffering to the very death, Jesus added: “Prove yourself faithful even to death, and I will give you the crown of life.”​—Revelation 2:8-10.

¹⁸ The letters to the seven congregations are filled with expressions that reflect Jesus’ full awareness of his disciples’ challenges and his genuine appreciation for their life of integrity. (Revelation 2:1–3:22) Keep in mind that those whom Jesus addressed were anointed Christians with the hope of ruling alongside him in heaven. In the footsteps of their Lord, they were being prepared for their lofty role of helping to administer with the greatest compassion the benefits of Christ’s ransom sacrifice to ailing humankind.​—Revelation 5:9, 10; 22:1-5.

19, 20. How do those making up the “great crowd” show their appreciation to Jehovah and his Son?

¹⁹ Of course, Jesus’ love for his anointed followers is also extended toward his loyal “other sheep,” millions of whom now make up the prospective “great crowd . . . out of all nations,” who will survive the coming “great tribulation.” (John 10:16; Revelation 7:9, 14) These ones are flocking to Jesus’ side out of appreciation for his ransom sacrifice and for their hope of everlasting life. How do they show their appreciation? They do so by “rendering [God] sacred service day and night.”​—Revelation 7:15-17.

²⁰ The worldwide report for the 2006 service year, set out on pages 27 to 30, gives clear evidence that these faithful ministers are truly rendering Jehovah “sacred service day and night.” In fact, during that one year, they along with the relatively small remaining body of anointed Christians devoted a total of 1,333,966,199 hours to the public ministry​—equivalent to well over 150,000 years!

Continue to Show Appreciation!

21, 22. (a) In regard to showing appreciation, why must Christians be especially on guard today? (b) What will be considered in the following article?

²¹ In dealing with imperfect humans, Jehovah and his Son have shown a depth of appreciation that is truly overwhelming. Sadly, though, the majority of humans give little thought to God, focusing instead on their own concerns. Describing people living in “the last days,” Paul wrote: “Men will become utterly self-centred, greedy for money . . . They will be utterly lacking in gratitude.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5, Phillips) What a contrast such ones are to true Christians, who by means of heartfelt prayer, willing obedience, and whole-souled service demonstrate their appreciation for all that God has done for them!​—Psalm 62:8; Mark 12:30; 1 John 5:3.

²² In the following article, we will review some of the many spiritual provisions that Jehovah has lovingly extended to us. As we reflect on these ‘good gifts,’ may our appreciation grow even deeper.​—James 1:17.

How Would You Answer?

• How has Jehovah shown himself to be an appreciative God?

• When in private, how can we make Jehovah’s heart rejoice?

• In what ways did Jesus show appreciation?

• How did living as a human help Jesus to be a compassionate and appreciative ruler?

[Picture on page 17]

As a parent loves her child’s simple expression, Jehovah appreciates it when we give him our best

Never Cease Growing in Your Appreciation

“How precious your thoughts are! O God, how much does the grand sum of them amount to!”​—PSALM 139:17.

1, 2. Why should we appreciate God’s Word, and how did the psalmist voice his appreciation?

IT WAS a sensational find. While repairs were being made on Jehovah’s temple in Jerusalem, High Priest Hilkiah found “the book of Jehovah’s law by the hand of Moses,” doubtless the original copy completed some 800 years earlier! Can you imagine how God-fearing King Josiah must have felt when that book was placed before him? Indeed, he prized it and immediately had Shaphan, the secretary, read it aloud.​—2 Chronicles 34:14-18.

² Today, God’s Word, in whole or in part, can be read by billions. But does that make the Scriptures less valuable, less important? Of course not! After all, they contain the very thoughts of the Almighty, recorded for our benefit. (2 Timothy 3:16) Expressing his feelings about God’s Word, the psalmist David wrote: “To me how precious your thoughts are! O God, how much does the grand sum of them amount to!”​—Psalm 139:17.

3. What shows that David was a man of spiritual depth?

³ David’s appreciation for Jehovah, his Word, and his arrangement for true worship never faded. The many beautiful psalms David composed expressed how he felt. For example, at Psalm 27:4, he wrote: “One thing I have asked from Jehovah​—it is what I shall look for, that I may dwell in the house of Jehovah all the days of my life, to behold the pleasantness of Jehovah and to look with appreciation upon his temple.” In the original Hebrew, the expression “to look with appreciation” means to linger in contemplation, to scrutinize, to see with pleasure, delight, admiration. Clearly, David was a man of spiritual depth who truly appreciated Jehovah’s spiritual provisions and relished every morsel of spiritual truth that God revealed. His example of appreciation is worthy of imitation.​—Psalm 19:7-11.

Appreciate the Privilege of Knowing Bible Truth

4. What caused Jesus to become “overjoyed in the holy spirit”?

⁴ Gaining insight into God’s Word does not depend on intellect or worldly education, which tend to foster pride. Instead, it depends on Jehovah’s undeserved kindness, which he extends toward humble, honesthearted people who are conscious of their spiritual need. (Matthew 5:3; 1 John 5:20) When Jesus reflected on the fact that some imperfect humans were having their names inscribed in heaven, “he became overjoyed in the holy spirit and said: ‘I publicly praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have carefully hidden these things from wise and intellectual ones, and have revealed them to babes.’”​—Luke 10:17-21.

5. Why were Jesus’ disciples not to take for granted the Kingdom truths revealed to them?

⁵ After uttering that heartfelt prayer, Jesus turned to his disciples and said: “Happy are the eyes that behold the things you are beholding. For I say to you, Many prophets and kings desired to see the things you are beholding but did not see them, and to hear the things you are hearing but did not hear them.” Yes, Jesus encouraged his faithful followers not to take for granted the precious Kingdom truths being revealed to them. These truths had not been revealed to earlier generations of God’s servants, and they were certainly not disclosed to the “wise and intellectual ones” of Jesus’ day!​—Luke 10:23, 24.

6, 7. (a) What reasons do we have for being appreciative of divine truth? (b) What contrast is seen today between true religion and false?

⁶ In our day, we have even more reasons for being appreciative of divine truth, for Jehovah, by means of “the faithful and discreet slave,” has given his people still deeper insight into his Word. (Matthew 24:45; Daniel 12:10) Concerning the time of the end, the prophet Daniel wrote: “Many will rove about, and the true knowledge will become abundant.” (Daniel 12:4) Do you not agree that today the knowledge of God has “become abundant” and that Jehovah’s servants are well-fed spiritually?

⁷ What a contrast we see between the spiritual prosperity of God’s people and the religious confusion of Babylon the Great! As a result, many who are disillusioned or disgusted with false religion are turning to true worship. They are sheeplike ones who “do not want to share with [Babylon the Great] in her sins” or “receive part of her plagues.” Jehovah and his servants invite all such ones into the true Christian congregation.​—Revelation 18:2-4; 22:17.

Appreciative Ones Flock to God

8, 9. How are the words of Haggai 2:7 being fulfilled today?

⁸ Concerning his spiritual house of worship, Jehovah foretold: “I will rock all the nations, and the desirable things of all the nations must come in; and I will fill this house with glory.” (Haggai 2:7) This amazing prophecy had a fulfillment in the time of Haggai when a restored remnant of God’s people rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem. Today, Haggai’s words are having further fulfillment in regard to Jehovah’s great spiritual temple.

⁹ Millions have already flocked to the figurative temple in order to worship God “with spirit and truth,” and every year hundreds of thousands of “desirable things of all the nations” continue to stream in. (John 4:23, 24) For example, the worldwide report for the 2006 service year shows that 248,327 were baptized in symbol of their dedication to Jehovah. That represents an average of 680 new ones every day! Their love of the truth and their desire to serve Jehovah as Kingdom proclaimers give evidence that they truly were drawn by God.​—John 6:44, 65.

10, 11. Relate an experience that shows how people have come to appreciate Bible truth.

¹⁰ Many of these honesthearted ones were attracted to the truth because they discerned “the distinction between a righteous one and a wicked one, between one serving God and one who has not served him.” (Malachi 3:18) Consider the experience of Wayne and Virginia, a married couple who belonged to a Protestant church but who had many unanswered questions. They hated war and were confused and disturbed when they saw the clergy blessing soldiers and weapons. As the couple grew older, they felt ignored by others in the church, even though Virginia had taught Sunday school for a number of years. “No one called on us or expressed interest in our spiritual welfare,” they said. “All that the church wanted was our money. We felt lost.” They became even more disillusioned when their church adopted a permissive stance on homosexuality.

¹¹ In the meantime, Wayne and Virginia’s granddaughter and then their daughter became Jehovah’s Witnesses. Though Wayne and Virginia were upset about this at first, they later changed their mind and accepted a Bible study. “In just three months,” said Wayne, “we learned more about the Bible than we had learned over the previous 70 years! We never knew that God’s name is Jehovah, and we knew nothing about the Kingdom and the Paradise earth.” Before long, this sincere couple began to attend Christian meetings and to share in the ministry. “We want to tell everyone about the truth,” said Virginia. Both in their 80’s, they were baptized in 2005. “We have found a true Christian home,” they said.

Appreciate Being “Equipped for Every Good Work”

12. What does Jehovah always provide for his servants, and what must we do to benefit?

¹² Jehovah always helps his servants to do his will. Noah, for example, received clear, specific instructions on how to build the ark​—a project that had to be just right the first time! And it was. Why? Because Noah “proceeded to do according to all that God had commanded him. He did just so.” (Genesis 6:14-22) Today, too, Jehovah fully equips his servants to do his will. Of course, our primary work is to preach the good news of God’s established Kingdom and help deserving ones become disciples of Jesus Christ. And as was true of Noah, our success depends on obedience. We must obediently follow the direction Jehovah provides through his Word and his organization.​—Matthew 24:14; 28:19, 20.

13. By what means does Jehovah provide us with training?

¹³ In order to accomplish that work, we must learn to ‘handle aright’ our main tool​—God’s Word—​which is “beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17) As in the first century, Jehovah gives us valuable training through the Christian congregation. Today, in the 99,770 congregations worldwide, the Theocratic Ministry School and Service Meeting are held weekly to help us in the ministry. Do you show your appreciation for these important meetings by regularly attending and by applying the things you learn?​—Hebrews 10:24, 25.

14. How do Jehovah’s servants demonstrate their appreciation for the privilege of serving God? (Include comments on the chart on pages 27-30.)

¹⁴ Exerting themselves in the ministry, millions of God’s people around the world are demonstrating their appreciation for the training they receive. For example, during the 2006 service year, 6,741,444 Kingdom publishers spent a total of 1,333,966,199 hours in all facets of the work, which included the conducting of 6,286,618 home Bible studies. These are just some of the encouraging details listed in the worldwide report. We invite you to take a close look at this report and draw encouragement from it, just as our first-century brothers no doubt drew much encouragement from reports about the expansion of the preaching work in their time.​—Acts 1:15; 2:5-11, 41, 47; 4:4; 6:7.

15. Why should no one feel discouraged about his whole-souled service to Jehovah?

¹⁵ The tremendous shout of praise that ascends to God each year reflects the deep appreciation that Jehovah’s servants have for the privilege of knowing Jehovah and bearing witness to him. (Isaiah 43:10) True, the sacrifice of praise that some of our aged, sick, or infirm brothers and sisters offer can be compared to the widow’s mite. But let us not forget that Jehovah and his Son truly appreciate all who serve God whole-souled, as they do all that they are able to do.​—Luke 21:1-4; Galatians 6:4.

16. What teaching tools has God provided in recent times?

¹⁶ Besides training us for the ministry, Jehovah, through his organization, equips us with excellent teaching tools. In recent decades, these have included the books The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life, You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth, Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life and, currently, What Does the Bible Really Teach? Those who truly appreciate these provisions make good use of them in the ministry.

Make Good Use of the Bible Teach Book

17, 18. (a) Which parts of the Bible Teach book do you like to highlight in your ministry? (b) What did one circuit overseer observe about the Bible Teach book?

¹⁷ With its 19 chapters, in-depth appendix, and clear, simple language, the book What Does the Bible Really Teach? is proving to be a boon to the ministry. For example, chapter 12 discusses the subject “Living in a Way That Pleases God.” This material explains to the student how he can become a friend of God, something that many have never even considered or thought possible. (James 2:23) How is this Bible study aid being received?

¹⁸ A circuit overseer in Australia reports that the Bible Teach book has an “instant appeal that quickly draws householders into a conversation.” He adds that the book is so easy to use that it “has given many Kingdom publishers renewed confidence and joy in the ministry. No wonder some are calling the book the Gold Nugget!”

19-21. Relate some experiences that highlight the value of the Bible Teach book.

¹⁹ “God must have sent you,” said a woman in Guyana to the pioneer at her door. The woman’s partner had recently left her and their two small children. The pioneer opened the Bible Teach book to chapter 1 and read aloud paragraph 11, under the subhead “How Does God Feel About Injustices We Face?” “The points touched her deeply,” said the pioneer. “In fact, she had to get up, go to the back of her shop, and have a good cry.” This woman accepted the offer of a regular Bible study with a local sister and is continuing to make progress.

²⁰ José, who lives in Spain, lost his wife in a traffic accident. He sought solace in drugs, and he also obtained professional help. However, the psychologists could not answer the question that disturbed José most: “Why did God allow my wife to die?” One day José met Francesc, who worked for the same company. Francesc suggested that they discuss chapter 11 of the Bible Teach book, entitled “Why Does God Allow Suffering?” The Scriptural explanation and the illustration of a teacher and a pupil deeply impressed José. He began to study in earnest, attended a circuit assembly, and now attends meetings at the local Kingdom Hall.

²¹ Roman, a 40-year-old businessman in Poland, has always had respect for the Word of God. But because he was very involved in his work, he progressed only to a certain point in his Bible study. Nevertheless, he attended a district convention and received a copy of the Bible Teach book. Thereafter, he made marked improvement. “With this book,” he says, “all the basic teachings of the Bible seem to come together to form a complete picture, like a jigsaw puzzle.” Roman now studies the Bible regularly and is making fine progress.

Continue to Grow in Appreciation

22, 23. How can we continue to show our appreciation for the hope that is set before us?

²² As explained at the thrilling “Deliverance at Hand!” District Conventions, true Christians yearn for the “everlasting deliverance” promised by God and made possible by the shed blood of Jesus Christ. There is no better way to show our heartfelt appreciation for this precious hope than by continuing to be cleansed “from dead works that we may render sacred service to the living God.”​—Hebrews 9:12, 14.

²³ Yes, that over six million Kingdom proclaimers faithfully endure in God’s service when the pressure to serve self is at an all-time high is truly a miracle. It is also proof that Jehovah’s servants deeply appreciate the honor of serving God, knowing that their “labor is not in vain in connection with the Lord.” May that appreciation never cease to grow!​—1 Corinthians 15:58; Psalm 110:3.

How Would You Answer?

• What does the psalmist teach us about appreciation for God and his spiritual provisions?

• How are the words at Haggai 2:7 being fulfilled today?

• How has Jehovah equipped his servants to serve him effectively?

• What can you do to show your appreciation for Jehovah’s goodness?

[Chart on page 27-30]

2006 SERVICE YEAR REPORT OF JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES WORLDWIDE

(See bound volume)

[Pictures on page 25]

Jehovah fully equips us to do his will

Questions From Readers

What is “the war . . . of God the Almighty” at Har–Magedon, and what will be the outcome?​—Revelation 16:14, 16.

Simply stated, the war of Har–Magedon is the future earth-wide battle in which Jehovah’s appointed King, Jesus Christ, will destroy God’s enemies. The Bible explains that these enemies, “the kings of the entire inhabited earth,” are mobilized by “expressions inspired by demons” and are gathered together “to the war of the great day of God the Almighty . . . to the place that is called in Hebrew Har–Magedon.”​—Revelation 16:14, 16.

The place where the warring parties gather is not literal. The name Har–Magedon, rendered “Armageddon” in some Bible translations, means “Mountain of Megiddo.” (Revelation 16:16, footnote) There has never been a mountain that bears that name. Furthermore, “the kings of the earth and their armies” could not literally gather in one place. (Revelation 19:19) Rather, “the place” refers to the condition or situation into which earth’s political rulers and their supporters are led​—one of opposition to Jehovah and to “the armies that were in heaven” under the military command of the “King of kings and Lord of lords,” Jesus Christ.​—Revelation 19:14, 16.

Significantly, the term “Har–Magedon” is related to the ancient Israelite city of Megiddo. Strategically located to the east of Mount Carmel, Megiddo dominated major trade and military routes of the day. It was also the site of decisive battles. For example, it was “by the waters of Megiddo” that Israelite Judge Barak defeated a mighty Canaanite army led by General Sisera. (Judges 4:12-24; 5:19, 20) In that vicinity too, Judge Gideon routed the Midianites. (Judges 7:1-22) By linking Megiddo to the coming war, the Bible assures us that God, through his Son, will completely conquer all opposing forces.

What will be the outcome? The war of Har–Magedon will rid the earth of all corruption and wickedness. It will open the way for the most glorious era in all human history. (Revelation 21:1-4) Under the loving oversight of God’s Kingdom, the earth will be transformed into a paradise in which righteous ones will live forever.​—Psalm 37:29.

Easy, Yes, but Accurate?

IN September 2005, the Church of England heartily endorsed the release of The 100-Minute Bible. Designed to be read in 100 minutes, the new version condenses the Hebrew Scriptures into 17 one-page sections and the Greek Scriptures into 33, thus leaving out, as one reviewer puts it, all those “boring bits.” It is easy to read, yes, but is it accurate?

Aside from the omission of the divine name, Jehovah, a number of other deviations will be noted by serious Bible students. (Psalm 83:18) For example, section 1 states that God “created heaven and earth over a period of six days.” Genesis 1:1, however, simply says: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” After that, the original account describes further acts of creation involving the earth, lasting six “days,” or periods of time. Then, Genesis 2:4 sums up the entire period of creation, calling it “the day that Jehovah God made earth and heaven.”

According to The 100-Minute Bible, Job, a man of integrity, was attacked by “one of [God’s] servants, Satan, . . . whose responsibility it was to act as the accuser of humankind.” Do you see the discrepancy here? The word “Satan” means “Resister.” Rather than being God’s servant, Satan is, in fact, God’s archenemy and the self-appointed accuser of mankind.​—Revelation 12:7-10.

What about the Christian Greek Scriptures portion of The 100-Minute Bible? In the parable of the sheep and the goats, the new version says that Jesus favors those who helped “anyone, however insignificant,” whereas Jesus really said that he blesses those who do good to his footstep followers​—his “brothers.” (Matthew 25:40) The synopsis of Revelation tells its readers that “Rome, the great Babylon, would be utterly destroyed.” Bible students know, however, that nothing in the original writings allows for such an identification of “Babylon the Great.”​—Revelation 17:15–18:24.

For those who seek to know our Creator and understand his purpose, there can be no substitute for the complete Bible. True, reading the Bible will take more than 100 minutes, but doing so brings inestimable rewards. (John 17:3) May you accept this challenge and reap the rewards for yourself.​—2 Timothy 3:16, 17.

Would You Welcome a Visit?

Even in this troubled world, you can gain happiness from accurate Bible knowledge of God, his Kingdom, and his wonderful purpose for mankind. If you would welcome further information or would like to have someone visit you to conduct a free Bible study, please write to Jehovah’s Witnesses, 25 Columbia Heights, Brooklyn, NY 11201-2483, or to the appropriate address listed on page 2.