1. Why could Paul say that “Christ is the power of God”?

JEHOVAH displayed his power through Jesus Christ in extraordinary ways. The four Gospels provide faith-strengthening details about some of the miracles that Christ performed. Likely, he performed many other miracles. (Matt. 9:35; Luke 9:11) Yes, God’s power was manifested in Jesus. For good reason, then, the apostle Paul could say about him: “Christ is the power of God.” (1 Cor. 1:24) Yet, what bearing can Jesus’ miracles have on our life?

2. What can we learn from Jesus’ miracles?

² The apostle Peter said that Jesus performed miracles, or “wonders.” (Acts 2:22) The powerful works that Jesus did on earth were foregleams of even grander blessings to come under his kingly rule. They foreshadow the miracles that Jesus will perform in God’s new world on a global scale! His miracles also give us tremendous insight into his personality and that of his Father. Let us consider a few of Jesus’ miracles and see what effect they can have on our life now and in the future.

A MIRACLE THAT TEACHES GENEROSITY

3. (a) Describe the circumstances that led to Jesus’ first miracle. (b) How was Jesus’ generosity highlighted at Cana?

³ At a marriage feast in Cana of Galilee, Jesus performed his first miracle. The number of guests may have been greater than expected. But whatever the case, the wine ran out. Among the guests was Mary, Jesus’ mother. For years, she had no doubt pondered all the prophetic promises associated with her son, who she knew would be called “Son of the Most High.” (Luke 1:30-32; 2:52) Did she believe that in him there were powers not yet revealed? What is evident is that at Cana, Mary and Jesus felt compassion for the newly married couple and wanted to save them embarrassment. Jesus knew that hospitality was a duty. So he miraculously turned some 100 gallons (380 L) of water into “fine wine.” (Read John 2:3, 6-11.) Was Jesus obligated to perform this miracle? No. He simply cared about people and was imitating his heavenly Father by being generous.

4, 5. (a) What lesson does Jesus’ first miracle teach us? (b) What does the miracle at Cana teach us about the future?

⁴ Jesus miraculously provided a large amount of fine wine, enough for a sizable group. Do you see what this miracle teaches us? That Jesus would willingly perform such a marvelous deed assures us that people’s feelings are important to him and to his Father. Neither Father nor Son is stingy. Now imagine how Jehovah will use his power generously in the new world to provide a rich banquet “for all the peoples” earth wide.​—Read Isaiah 25:6.

⁵ Think of it! A time is coming when legitimate needs and desires​—such as nutritious food and proper housing—​for every person will be satisfied. May our joy overflow in anticipation of the generous supply of good things that Jehovah will provide for us in the earthly Paradise.

6. For whom did Jesus use his miraculous power, and how can we imitate him in this regard?

⁶ It is of interest that when the Devil tempted Jesus to turn stones into loaves of bread, Christ refused to use his miraculous power to satisfy his personal desires. (Matt. 4:2-4) But he did use his power to respond to and satisfy the needs of others. How can we imitate Jesus’ unselfish concern for others? He encouraged God’s servants to “practice giving.” (Luke 6:38) Can we show the noble quality of generosity by inviting others to our home to share a meal and a spiritual feast? Can we be generous with our time after a meeting, aiding someone in need, such as by listening to a brother practice his talk? What help might we be able to offer to those needing assistance in the ministry? We show that we have learned from Jesus by generously providing material and spiritual things to others as we are able.

“ALL ATE AND WERE SATISFIED”

7. What situation will exist as long as this system of things lasts?

⁷ Poverty is not new. Jehovah told ancient Israel that there would never cease to be poor ones in the land. (Deut. 15:11) Centuries later, Jesus acknowledged: “You always have the poor with you.” (Matt. 26:11) Did Jesus mean that there would always be poor people on the earth? No, he meant that there would be poor people as long as this corrupt system of things lasts. Therefore, how heartening it is to understand that Jesus’ miracles serve as portents of better times ahead under Kingdom rule when all will have plenty to eat and be satisfied!

8, 9. (a) What led to Jesus’ miracle of feeding thousands of people? (b) What touches you about the miraculous feeding of thousands?

⁸ The psalmist said of Jehovah: “You open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.” (Ps. 145:16) Reflecting his Father, ‘Christ, the power of God,’ frequently opened his hand and satisfied the desires of his followers. His doing so was not merely an expression of power. He was guided by his heartfelt concern for others. Let us consider Matthew 14:14-21. (Read.) Jesus’ disciples came to him to discuss the food situation. Not only may they themselves have been hungry but they were concerned about the plight of the famished and weary crowd that had followed Jesus on foot from the cities. (Matt. 14:13) What would he do?

⁹ With five loaves and two fish, Jesus fed about 5,000 men, as well as women and children! Are we not touched to think of the way Jesus used his miraculous power to care compassionately for entire families, including the little ones? The crowds “ate and were satisfied.” This suggests that there was an abundant supply of food. Jesus kindly provided, not a mere taste of bread, but a meal that would sustain the crowds for their long journey back home. (Luke 9:10-17) And 12 baskets were filled with the leftovers!

10. What change as to poverty will soon occur?

¹⁰ Today the basic needs of hundreds of millions of people go unmet because of unjust human rule. Even some of our brothers, though having enough to subsist on, are not fully “satisfied.” However, the time is near for obedient mankind to enjoy a world free of corruption and poverty. If you had the power, would you not satisfy man’s needs? Almighty God does have both the power and the desire to do just that​—and soon. Yes, relief is in sight!​—Read Psalm 72:16.

11. Why are you convinced that Christ will soon use his power earth wide, and what are you thus moved to do?

¹¹ When on earth, Jesus worked in a relatively small territory for a limited time of three and a half years. (Matt. 15:24) As a glorified King, his territory will extend to the four corners of the earth. (Ps. 72:8) Jesus’ miracles give us confidence in his ability and his desire soon to use his authority for our good. Though we cannot perform miracles, we can enthusiastically draw people’s attention to God’s inspired Word. Bible prophecies guarantee better times ahead. As dedicated Witnesses of Jehovah who possess this precious knowledge about the future, do we not sense that we have a debt toward others? (Rom. 1:14, 15) May meditating on this move us to tell others the good news of God’s Kingdom.​—Ps. 45:1; 49:3.

CONTROL OF EARTH’S NATURAL FORCES

12. Why may we be sure that Jesus fully understands earth’s ecology?

¹² With his only-begotten Son beside him as “a master worker,” God created the earth and the things on it. (Prov. 8:22, 30, 31; Col. 1:15-17) Thus, Jesus fully understands earth’s ecology. He knows how to use, manage, and distribute earth’s resources fairly and properly.

13, 14. Give an example of how Christ can exercise control over the forces of nature.

¹³ When on earth, Jesus showed that he is “the power of God” by exercising control over the forces of nature. Consider how Jesus dealt with a windstorm that appeared to threaten the lives of his disciples. (Read Mark 4:37-39.) One Bible scholar notes: “The Greek word [for “windstorm” at Mark 4:37] is used of a furious storm or hurricane. It never refers to a single gust . . . but to a storm breaking forth from black thunder-clouds in furious gusts, with floods of rain, and throwing everything topsy-turvy.” Matthew’s account describes this windstorm as “a great storm.”​—Matt. 8:24.

¹⁴ Picture the scene: Christ is exhausted from his demanding ministry. The waves are pounding the ship, hurling spray and foam into the boat. Yet, despite the noise of the storm and the violent pitching of the boat, Jesus continues to sleep. His body needs rest. The frightened disciples wake Jesus up and exclaim: “We are about to perish!” (Matt. 8:25) Rousing himself, Jesus commands the wind and the sea with the words: “Hush! Be quiet!” and the raging wind stops. (Mark 4:39) Jesus is, in effect, commanding the wind and the sea to be quiet and to stay that way. The result? “A great calm set in.” What power Jesus displays!

15. How has Almighty God shown himself to be capable of controlling the forces of nature?

¹⁵ The Source of Christ’s power is Jehovah himself, so we have reason to believe that Almighty God is fully capable of controlling the forces of nature. Consider a few examples. Before the Flood, Jehovah stated: “In just seven days, I will make it rain on the earth for 40 days and 40 nights.” (Gen. 7:4) Similarly, at Exodus 14:21, we read: “Jehovah drove the sea back with a strong east wind.” And we read at Jonah 1:4: “Jehovah hurled a strong wind at the sea, and there was such a violent storm on the sea that the ship was about to be wrecked.” It is encouraging to know that Jehovah can control the elements. Clearly, planet Earth’s future is in good hands.

16. Why is it reassuring to know that our Creator and his firstborn Son have power over natural forces?

¹⁶ How reassuring it is to contemplate the awesome power of our Creator and his “master worker.” When their full attention is directed toward the earth for the 1,000 years, all people will dwell in security. Terrifying natural disasters will be a thing of the past. There will be no reason to fear being harmed by typhoons, tsunamis, volcanoes, or earthquakes in the new world. How wonderful it is to think of the time when no natural forces will kill or maim, for “the tent of God [will be] with mankind”! (Rev. 21:3, 4) We can be assured that the power of God exercised through Christ will control the forces of nature during the Millennium.

IMITATE GOD AND CHRIST NOW

17. What is one way that we can imitate God and Christ now?

¹⁷ Of course, unlike Jehovah and Jesus, we cannot prevent natural disasters, but we do have some power. How do we use it? One way is by applying Proverbs 3:27. (Read.) When our brothers suffer hardships, we can comfort and support them physically, emotionally, and spiritually. (Prov. 17:17) For example, we may help them recover from a natural disaster. Listen to one widow’s heartfelt expression of thanks after a hurricane badly damaged her home: “I am so deeply grateful to be in Jehovah’s organization, not only for the physical help but also for the spiritual help.” And note the comments of one single sister who felt hopeless and perplexed after seeing the damage done to her home by a storm. Upon receiving help, she said: “It is indescribable! I am unable to express totally how I feel . . . Thank you, Jehovah!” We rejoice that we are part of a brotherhood that genuinely cares about the needs of others. A greater cause for gladness is that Jehovah and Jesus Christ really care for God’s people.

18. What is impressive about Jesus’ motive for performing miracles?

¹⁸ During his ministry, Jesus proved that he is “the power of God.” But what was Jesus’ motive? Never do we see him using his power to impress others or to benefit himself. Indeed, the miracles Jesus performed reveal the love he has for the human family. We will see that in the next article.

1, 2. What is one proof of Jesus’ deep love for mankind?

GOD’S firstborn Son was the earliest and most complete expression of Jehovah’s unfathomable wisdom. He was wisdom personified, “a master worker” alongside his Father. We can only imagine the joy and satisfaction that he experienced as his Father “prepared the heavens” and “established the foundations of the earth.” However, though appreciating these inanimate things, God’s firstborn Son “was especially fond of the sons of men.” (Prov. 8:22-31) Yes, Jesus has a fondness, or tender affection, for mankind that stretches back to his prehuman existence.

² Later, as proof of his loyalty and love for his Father, as well as of his deep love for “the sons of men,” God’s Firstborn willingly “emptied himself” and came to be in the likeness of men. He did so in order to provide “a ransom in exchange for many.” (Phil. 2:5-8; Matt. 20:28) What love he has for the human family! While Jesus was on earth, God empowered him to perform miracles that revealed how much he loved people. Jesus thus demonstrated the kind of marvelous things that will soon take place earth wide.

3. On what will we now focus?

³ Jesus’ coming to earth also enabled him to “declare the good news of the Kingdom of God.” (Luke 4:43) Jesus knew that this Kingdom would serve to sanctify his Father’s name and would be the permanent solution to all human ills. Not surprisingly, woven throughout the fabric of Jesus’ preaching tours were evidences of his genuine concern for the human family. Why should this matter to us? Because the lessons we learn will inspire confidence and hope for the future. Let us examine four of Jesus’ miracles.

“POWER WAS WITH HIM TO DO HEALING”

4. Describe Jesus’ encounter with a leper.

⁴ Jesus was well into his public ministry, and his most recent area of activity was Galilee. In one of the cities there, Jesus encountered a pitiful sight. (Mark 1:39, 40) Right in front of him was a man with a frightful disease, leprosy. Testifying to the advanced stage of the man’s illness, physician Luke describes him as being “full of leprosy.” (Luke 5:12) “When he caught sight of Jesus, [the leper] fell facedown and begged him: ‘Lord, if you just want to, you can make me clean.’” The man had no doubt that Jesus possessed the power to heal him, but what he needed to know was, did Jesus have the desire to do so? How would Jesus respond to this heartfelt request? What was Jesus thinking as he beheld this man who was probably disfigured? Would Jesus be like the Pharisees, who had developed a heartless view of people suffering from this disease? What would you have done?

5. What moved Jesus to say “I want to!” when healing the leper?

⁵ Apparently, this leprous man had neglected to call out “Unclean, unclean!” as the Mosaic Law stipulated. Jesus did not bring that up. Rather, he concentrated on the man himself and his needs. (Lev. 13:43-46) We do not know exactly what thoughts were going through Jesus’ mind, but we do know what was in his heart. Moved with compassion, Jesus did the incredible. He stretched out his hand, touched the leper, and with a voice reflecting both strength and tenderness, Jesus said: “I want to! Be made clean.” Then “the leprosy vanished from him.” (Luke 5:13) Indeed, Jehovah’s power was there​—not only for Christ to perform such a miracle but also for Jesus to demonstrate how much he loved people.​—Luke 5:17.

6. What is noteworthy about the miracles Jesus performed, and what do they show?

⁶ God’s power enabled Jesus Christ to perform a wide variety of astounding miracles. He cured not only leprosy but also every sort of disease and every sort of infirmity among the people. The inspired record tells us: “The crowd felt amazement as they saw the speechless speaking and the maimed being made sound and the lame walking and the blind seeing.” (Matt. 15:31) To perform such acts of compassion, Jesus needed no organ donors for transplants. He healed the very organs or body parts that were afflicted! And he healed people instantly, sometimes even from a distance. (John 4:46-54) What do these amazing examples show? That Jesus, now enthroned as heavenly King, has not only the power but also the desire to bring about permanent healing. Learning about the way Jesus treated people gives us confidence that in the new world, the Bible prophecy will be fulfilled: “He will have pity on the lowly and the poor.” (Ps. 72:13) Yes, Jesus will then act on his heart’s desire to help all afflicted ones.

“GET UP! PICK UP YOUR MAT AND WALK”

7, 8. Describe the events that led Jesus to a paralyzed man at the pool of Bethzatha.

⁷ A few months passed after Jesus’ encounter with the leprous man in Galilee. His travels took him from Galilee into Judea to preach and declare the good news of God’s Kingdom. The lives Jesus touched with his message and his manner must have numbered into the thousands. He clearly desired to declare good news to the poor, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and to bind up the brokenhearted.​—Isa. 61:1, 2; Luke 4:18-21.

⁸ Then the month of Nisan arrived. In obedience to his Father’s command, Jesus journeyed to Jerusalem for the Passover. The city was alive with activity as the people arrived for this sacred festival. Just north of the temple was a pool known as Bethzatha, and there Jesus encountered a sick man.

9, 10. (a) What drew people to the pool of Bethzatha? (b) What did Jesus do at the pool, and what does this teach us? (See opening image.)

⁹ Large crowds of sick and infirm people would gather at Bethzatha. What drew them to this location? For some unexplained reason, they believed that if a sick person entered the pool when the waters were agitated, he would be miraculously cured. Imagine the feelings that must have prevailed! Desperation, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness no doubt hung heavily in the air. But what is it that drew Jesus there, a perfect man without physical defect? Well, moved with pity, Jesus approached a man who had been sick longer than Jesus had been alive on earth.​—Read John 5:5-9.

¹⁰ Can you picture the despair in the sick man’s eyes when Jesus inquired if he wanted to get well? The response was immediate. The man wanted to be healed but he could not see how, for he had no one to help him into the pool. Jesus then commanded the man to do the impossible​—to pick up his mat and walk. Taking Jesus at his word, the man picked up his mat and began to walk. What a heartwarming foregleam of what Jesus will do in the new world! In this miracle, we also see Jesus’ compassion. He sought out the needy. Jesus’ example should motivate us to continue to seek out people in our territory who are depressed about the terrible things happening in this world.

“WHO TOUCHED MY OUTER GARMENTS?”

11. How does Mark 5:25-34 highlight Jesus’ compassion for those who suffer from sickness?

¹¹ Read Mark 5:25-34. For 12 years, the woman lived with shame. Her sickness had an impact on every aspect of her life, including her worship. Although “she had suffered much at the hands of many physicians and had spent all her resources,” she had become worse. But one day, the woman had a different plan to get well. She put herself in a position to be near the man named Jesus. She entered a crowd and touched Jesus’ outer garment. (Lev. 15:19, 25) Jesus realized that power had gone out of him, so he asked who had touched him. “Frightened and trembling,” the woman “fell down before him and told him the whole truth.” Realizing that it was his Father, Jehovah, who had healed the woman, Jesus treated her kindly, saying: “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed from your grievous sickness.”

12. (a) From what we have considered thus far, how would you describe Jesus? (b) What example did Jesus set for us?

¹² How kind Jesus is! We see that he has a warm place in his heart for those who suffer from illnesses. Satan wants to convince us that we are unloved and worthless. By his miracles, Jesus clearly proved that he truly cares about us and our problems. What a sympathetic King and High Priest! (Heb. 4:15) It may not be easy for us to understand the feelings of those who suffer from a chronic illness, especially if we have never experienced such. We can bear in mind that Jesus empathized with the sick even though he himself was never sick. May Jesus’ example move us to do the same, to the best of our ability.​—1 Pet. 3:8.

“JESUS GAVE WAY TO TEARS”

13. What does the resurrection of Lazarus reveal about Jesus’ personality?

¹³ Jesus’ heart was touched by the pain of others. Deeply moved by others’ reaction to the death of his friend Lazarus, Jesus “groaned” and “became troubled.” He felt that way even though he knew that he would shortly bring Lazarus back to life. (Read John 11:33-36.) Jesus was not ashamed to manifest strong emotions. Onlookers could see the affection Jesus felt for Lazarus and his family. What compassion Jesus showed by using his God-given power to bring his friend back to life!​—John 11:43, 44.

14, 15. (a) What indicates Jehovah’s strong desire to rid mankind of suffering? (b) Why is the expression “memorial tombs” of interest?

¹⁴ The Bible describes Jesus as “the exact representation of [the Creator’s] very being.” (Heb. 1:3) Thus, by his miracles, Jesus proved that he and his Father have the desire to undo the pain of sickness and death. This desire extends far beyond the few resurrections recorded in the Bible. Jesus stated: “The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will . . . come out.”​—John 5:28, 29.

¹⁵ Jesus’ use of the expression “memorial tombs” is appropriate, for God’s memory is involved. Almighty God, the One responsible for creating the vast universe, can remember every detail of each of our dead loved ones, including natural and acquired traits. (Isa. 40:26) And it is not only that he can remember but that he and his Son want to do so. Lazarus’ resurrection and that of others recorded in the Bible portend what will take place on a global scale in the new world.

JESUS’ MIRACLES AND YOU

16. What will be the privilege of many modern-day Christian integrity-keepers?

¹⁶ If we maintain our Christian integrity, we may well witness one of the greatest miracles of all time​—the miracle of surviving the great tribulation. Soon after the war of Armageddon, more miracles will occur, restoring humans to good health. (Isa. 33:24; 35:5, 6; Rev. 21:4) Imagine watching people discard eyeglasses, canes, crutches, wheelchairs, hearing aids, and the like. For good reason, Jehovah will bring Armageddon survivors to a state of good health. Those survivors will have work to do. They can move forward with zest to make our planet, a gift from God, into a global paradise.​—Ps. 115:16.

17, 18. (a) What was evidently a major purpose of Jesus’ miracles? (b) Why should you put forth effort to be in God’s new world?

¹⁷ Jesus’ healings in the past encourage the “great crowd” today, reinforcing their joyous prospect of being healed of all ills. (Rev. 7:9) Those healings reflected his deep feelings and showed just how much love God’s firstborn Son has for mankind. (John 10:11; 15:12, 13) Jesus’ compassion paints a touching portrait of Jehovah’s concern for each one of his servants.​—John 5:19.

¹⁸ Mankind is groaning, full of pain, and dying. (Rom. 8:22) We need God’s new world, where there will be the complete physical healing that he has promised. Malachi 4:2 gives us reason to trust that the healed ones will “skip about like fattened calves,” excited and delighted to be released from confinement to imperfection. May heartfelt gratitude to God coupled with deep faith in his promises move us to do now whatever is needed to qualify to be in that new world. How heartening it is to know that the miracles Jesus performed while on earth were foregleams of the lasting relief that mankind will soon enjoy under his Messianic rule!

1. How does the world view chastity?

CHASTITY is not a popular virtue. That is particularly true in our time. In many lands, homosexuality and sex outside of marriage are viewed as normal. These lifestyles are even promoted in advertising and entertainment. (Ps. 12:8) Immorality has become so pervasive that you may wonder, ‘Is it really possible to live a chaste life?’ Our confident reply is, Yes, with Jehovah’s help, true Christians can remain chaste.​—Read 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5.

2, 3. (a) Why is it essential to fight unclean desires? (b) What will we consider in this article?

² First, however, we must recognize that in order to live a chaste life, we must reject immoral desires. Just as a baited hook may attract a fish, so immoral thoughts and lewd desires​—when not immediately dismissed—​may begin to draw out and entice a Christian. They can appeal to our fallen flesh and lead us toward immoral acts. In time, the allure of sin may become so great that the unclean desire becomes fertile. At that point, even a servant of Jehovah may be ready to act on his desire when an opportunity arises. Yes, “desire . . . gives birth to sin.”​—Read James 1:14, 15.

³ It is sobering to reflect on how a momentary desire can develop into a serious sin. But how encouraging it is to know that if we prevent unclean desires from taking root, we need not become involved in immoral conduct and suffer its bitter consequences! (Gal. 5:16) Let us consider three aids that will help us in the fight against unclean desires: our relationship with Jehovah, the counsel of his Word, and the help of mature fellow Christians.

“DRAW CLOSE TO GOD”

4. Why is it important to draw close to Jehovah?

⁴ The Bible’s direction to those who wish to “draw close to God” is: “Cleanse your hands, . . . and purify your hearts.” (Jas. 4:8) When we treasure our friendship with Jehovah, we strive to please him in every aspect of our life, including our thoughts. We desire to have “a pure heart” by focusing our minds on what is chaste, virtuous, and praiseworthy. (Ps. 24:3, 4; 51:6; Phil. 4:8) Granted, Jehovah makes allowances for our imperfect nature. He knows that we are prone to improper desires. But we recognize that it saddens him when we nurture wrong thoughts instead of doing all we can to reject them. (Gen. 6:5, 6) Reflecting on this fact makes us ever more determined to keep our thoughts chaste.

5, 6. How can prayer help us in our fight against immoral desires?

⁵ An important way to show our complete reliance on Jehovah is by making our fight against unclean thoughts a matter of prayer. When we draw close to Jehovah in prayer, he draws close to us. He generously gives us his holy spirit, thus strengthening our resolve to resist immoral thoughts and remain chaste. So let us make known to God our earnest wish to please him with the meditation of our heart. (Ps. 19:14) Do we humbly ask him to examine us in order to identify any “harmful way”​—any improper desires or inclinations—​that could lead us into sin? (Ps. 139:23, 24) Do we regularly petition him to help us maintain our integrity when we are faced with temptation?​—Matt. 6:13.

⁶ Our upbringing or our past conduct may have developed in us a liking for practices that Jehovah condemns. Even then, he can help us to bring about necessary changes so that we can continue to serve him acceptably. King David recognized this. After he had committed adultery with Bath-sheba, David implored Jehovah: “Create in me a pure heart, . . . and put within me a new spirit, a steadfast one.” (Ps. 51:10, 12) Sinful conduct may strongly appeal to our fallen flesh, but Jehovah can stir within us a willing spirit, the desire to obey him. Even if wrong desires are deeply rooted and tend to crowd out our chaste thoughts, Jehovah can guide our steps so that we can obey his commandments and succeed in living by them. He can prevent anything harmful from dominating us.​—Ps. 119:133.

“BECOME DOERS OF THE WORD”

7. How can God’s Word help to protect us from unclean thoughts?

⁷ Jehovah can answer our prayers for help by means of his Word, the Bible. The wisdom contained in God’s Word is “first of all pure.” (Jas. 3:17) Reading the Bible daily and meditating on what we read can help to guard our minds against immoral thoughts. (Ps. 19:7, 11; 119:9, 11) Additionally, the Bible contains examples and specific counsel that can help us to avoid falling victim to unclean desires.

8, 9. (a) What led one young man to become involved with an immoral woman? (b) To what modern-day situations can we apply the warning example found in Proverbs chapter 7?

⁸ At Proverbs 5:8, we read: “Stay far away from [the immoral woman]; do not go near the entrance of her house.” The danger of disregarding this counsel is illustrated in Proverbs chapter 7, where we read about a young man who goes for a stroll near the house of an immoral woman. Night is falling. At the street corner, he is approached by the woman, who may be clothed in revealing attire. She grabs him and kisses him. Her seductive speech awakens in him a desire that he seems unable to resist. They engage in sexual immorality. Apparently, that young man did not set out to commit immorality. He is inexperienced and lacks good judgment. Even so, he has to live with the disastrous consequences of his actions. If only he had stayed far away from her!​—Prov. 7:6-27.

⁹ Might we at times show a similar lack of good judgment, perhaps straying into dangerous situations that could awaken wrong desires? For example, at night, television networks may relax their restrictions on program content. What if we occasionally channel surf? Or perhaps we might aimlessly follow links on the Internet or frequent chat rooms and sites that carry invitations to view pornography or offer other sexual services. Could it be that in such circumstances we would be confronted with something that would arouse improper desires and undermine our fight to remain chaste?

10. Why is flirting dangerous? (See opening image.)

¹⁰ Another way the Bible helps us is by giving counsel on how to treat those of the opposite sex. (Read 1 Timothy 5:2.) Such counsel clearly rules out flirting. Some may view the use of body language, gestures, and glances that have romantic overtones as harmless in that these do not involve any physical contact. But flirting, or responding to it, may arouse unclean thoughts that can lead to serious sexual wrongdoing. It has happened before​—it can happen again.

11. What good example did Joseph set?

¹¹ Joseph acted wisely in this regard. When the wife of his master, Potiphar, tried to seduce him, Joseph rejected her efforts. But she did not give up. Day after day she invited him to remain with her. (Gen. 39:7, 8, 10) According to one Bible scholar, Potiphar’s wife was, in effect, saying: “‘Let’s just be on our own together for a little,’ in the hope of making [Joseph] take the first step.” However, Joseph was determined never to encourage, or even tolerate, her seductive overtures. He refused her flirtations, and he would not flirt with her, thus preventing any wrong desire from taking root in his heart. When she tried to force him to have sexual relations with her, Joseph acted decisively. “He left his garment in her hand and fled outside.”​—Gen. 39:12.

12. How do we know that what we look at can affect our heart?

¹² The Bible also alerts us to the danger of allowing our eyes to lead our heart astray. A roving eye can awaken or intensify wrong sexual desires. Jesus warned that “everyone who keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matt. 5:28) Recall what happened in King David’s case. “From the rooftop [David] saw a woman bathing.” (2 Sam. 11:2) He failed to look away and to direct his thoughts elsewhere. That led him to desire a woman who was someone else’s wife and to take steps to commit adultery with her.

13. Why do we need to ‘make a covenant with our eyes,’ and what does that involve?

¹³ In order to combat immoral fantasies, we need to ‘make a covenant with our eyes,’ as did faithful Job. (Job 31:1, 7, 9) We must solemnly decide to control our eyes and not allow them to gaze with immoral lust at another person. That would include averting our gaze from sexually charged images, be they on a computer screen, a billboard, a magazine cover, or anywhere else.

14. How can we benefit from the counsel to remain chaste?

¹⁴ If any of what has been presented so far has identified areas in which you could be more effective in your fight against wrong desires, take immediate action. Willingly submit to the counsel of God’s Word, which can help you avoid wrongdoing and thus remain chaste.​—Read James 1:21-25.

“CALL THE ELDERS”

15. If we are struggling with unclean desires, why is it important to seek help?

¹⁵ If we are struggling with wrong sexual desires, fellow Christians are another source of help that we can turn to. Of course, discussing with others problems of such a personal nature is not easy. But courageously placing ourselves under the kindly scrutiny of a mature Christian may prevent us from rationalizing any wrong desires. (Prov. 18:1; Heb. 3:12, 13) Talking about our weakness with a mature, spiritually qualified Christian may help us to identify blind spots. This can help us to make the necessary adjustments in order to remain in Jehovah’s love.

16, 17. (a) How can the elders help those who are struggling with unclean desires? Illustrate. (b) Why is it good for those who view pornography to seek help promptly?

¹⁶ Christian elders are especially qualified to help us. (Read James 5:13-15.) A young man in Brazil struggled with wrong desires for many years. He relates: “I knew that my thoughts displeased Jehovah, but I was too ashamed to share with others what I was feeling.” Fortunately, a concerned elder in his congregation reached out to him and encouraged him to get help. The young man recalls: “I was surprised at how kind the elders were to me, much kinder and more understanding than I felt I deserved. They listened carefully to my problems. They used the Bible to reaffirm Jehovah’s love for me, and they prayed with me. That made it easier for me to accept the Bible’s counsel that they provided.” Years later, after making good spiritual progress, he says: “I realize now how important it is to seek help instead of trying to carry our burdens alone.”

¹⁷ Seeking assistance is essential if the source of any immoral desires is the unclean habit of viewing pornography. The longer the delay in seeking help, the greater the risk that unclean desires will ‘become fertile and give birth to sin’ that will hurt others and bring reproach on Jehovah’s name. The desire to please Jehovah and to remain in the Christian congregation has moved many of his servants to accept loving help.​—Jas. 1:15; Ps. 141:5; Heb. 12:5, 6.

BE DETERMINED TO REMAIN CHASTE!

18. What is your determination?

¹⁸ As the moral decline of Satan’s world continues, how proud Jehovah must be to find his devoted servants putting forth earnest effort to keep their thoughts clean and to uphold his high moral standards! To that end, may each of us be determined to remain close to Jehovah and accept the guidance he provides by means of his Word and the Christian congregation. Remaining chaste results in satisfaction and peace of mind now. (Ps. 119:5, 6) In the future, after Satan is removed, we will have the privilege of living forever in a world cleansed of his corrupting influence.

RESPONDING to a tap on his shoulder, Kingsley begins his Bible reading​—his first assignment on the Theocratic Ministry School in the congregation. He carefully pronounces each word, not missing a syllable. But wait! Why is he not looking at his Bible?

Kingsley, who lives in Sri Lanka, is blind. He is also hearing-impaired and needs a wheelchair to get around. How did this man learn about Jehovah and qualify to enroll in the Theocratic Ministry School? Let me explain.

When I first met Kingsley, I was struck by how thirsty he was for Bible truth. He had already studied the Bible with several Witnesses, and his Braille copy of the book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life was well-worn.a He accepted my invitation to resume his study, but we faced two challenges.

First, Kingsley lived with several others in a home for the elderly and the physically challenged. Because of the background noise and Kingsley’s poor hearing, I had to raise my voice and speak much louder. In fact, everyone in the home was able to hear our weekly study!

Second, Kingsley could read and grasp only a small amount of new information during each study session. To make our study periods more productive, Kingsley prepared diligently. In advance, he read and reread the study material, looked up the scriptures in his Braille Bible, and then formulated in his mind the answers to the questions. This method proved to be very effective. During our study, he would sit cross-legged on a rug, excitedly tapping the floor while explaining at the top of his voice what he had learned. Before long, we were studying twice a week, and each session lasted two hours!

ATTENDING MEETINGS AND PARTICIPATING

Kingsley was eager to attend meetings at the Kingdom Hall, but this was not an easy task. He needed help to get into and out of his wheelchair, the car, and the Kingdom Hall. But many in the congregation took turns helping him, counting it a privilege to do so. During meetings, Kingsley kept a speaker next to his ear, listening attentively and even commenting!

After he had studied for some time, Kingsley decided to enroll in the Theocratic Ministry School. Two weeks before his first Bible reading, I asked him whether he had been practicing. He confidently said, “Yes, Brother, I have practiced about 30 times.” I congratulated him on his efforts and asked to hear the reading. He opened his Bible, placed his fingers on the Braille text, and started to read. However, I noticed that his fingers did not move along the page as they would normally do. He had memorized the entire Bible reading!

With tears rolling down my cheeks, I looked on in disbelief. I asked Kingsley how he could remember so well after practicing only 30 times. He replied: “No, I have practiced about 30 times per day.” For over a month, Kingsley had sat on his rug, reading and rereading the text until he had it memorized.

Then came the day of his assignment at the Kingdom Hall. When Kingsley completed his assignment, the congregation erupted in enthusiastic applause, and many wept at the determination of this new student. One publisher, who had stopped giving talks on the school because of nervousness, asked to be enrolled again. Why? She said, “If Kingsley can do it, so can I!”

On September 6, 2008, after he had studied the Bible for three years, Kingsley symbolized his dedication to Jehovah by water baptism. A loyal Witness until his death on May 13, 2014, Kingsley was confident that in the earthly Paradise, he will continue his faithful service with complete strength and perfect health. (Isa. 35:5, 6)​—As told by Paul McManus.

1. How might we use the prayer recorded at Matthew 6:9-13 in our ministry?

MANY people can recite the Lord’s Prayer from memory. In our door-to-door ministry, we often refer to this prayer to help householders understand that God’s Kingdom is a real government that is going to bring wonderful changes to our earth. Or we may refer to the first request in the prayer to show that God has a personal name, which is to be sanctified, or “treated as holy.”​—Matt. 6:9, ftn.

2. How do we know that Jesus did not intend that the model prayer be repeated word for word every time we pray?

² Did Jesus intend that this prayer be repeated word for word every time we pray, as is done by many in Christendom? No. Just before Jesus provided this prayer as a pattern, he said: “When praying, do not say the same things over and over again.” (Matt. 6:7) On a later occasion, he restated this prayer but used different wording. (Luke 11:1-4) Thus Jesus helped us know what sort of things we need to ask for and in what order of importance. Hence, it is fitting to call it the model prayer.

3. What questions could we meditate on as we analyze the model prayer?

³ In this article and the next, we will analyze the content of the model prayer. As we do so, ask yourself, ‘How can this model help me improve my own prayers? And, more important, am I living in harmony with the prayer?’

“OUR FATHER IN THE HEAVENS”

4. Of what does the expression “our Father” remind us, and in what sense is Jehovah “Father” to Christians with an earthly hope?

⁴ The expression “our Father,” not “my Father,” reminds us that we belong to an “association of brothers” who truly love one another. (1 Pet. 2:17) What a precious privilege that is! Anointed Christians, who have been begotten as God’s sons with heavenly life in view, rightly address Jehovah as “Father” in the fullest sense. (Rom. 8:15-17) Christians whose hope is to live forever on earth can also address Jehovah as “Father.” He is their Life-Giver, and he lovingly provides for the needs of all true worshippers. Those with this earthly hope will in the fullest sense become God’s children after they have reached perfection and have proved their loyalty in the final test.​—Rom. 8:21; Rev. 20:7, 8.

5, 6. What fine gift can parents give to their children, and what should each child do with this gift? (See opening image.)

⁵ Parents give their children a fine gift when they teach them to pray and help them to view Jehovah as a caring heavenly Father. A brother who now serves as a circuit overseer in South Africa recalls: “From the day our daughters were born, I would pray with them every night unless I was away from home. Our daughters often say that they do not remember the exact words of those nightly prayers. However, they recall the atmosphere, the sacredness of communicating with our Father, Jehovah, and the feeling of calm and security. As soon as they were able to, I encouraged them to pray out loud so that I could hear them express their thoughts and feelings to Jehovah. This was a wonderful opportunity to get a glimpse into their hearts. Then I could gently coach them to include important elements of the model prayer in order to give their prayers a meaningful foundation.”

⁶ Not surprisingly, the brother’s little girls went on to make fine spiritual progress. They are now happily married, and along with their husbands, they are doing God’s will in the full-time service. Parents can give their children no greater gift than that of helping them to develop a warm, close relationship with Jehovah. Of course, it is up to each one to maintain this precious relationship. That involves learning to love God’s name, treating it with the deepest respect.​—Ps. 5:11, 12; 91:14.

“LET YOUR NAME BE SANCTIFIED”

7. What privilege do God’s people have, but what does it require of us?

⁷ What a privilege it is for us not only to know God’s personal name but also to bear it as “a people for his name.” (Acts 15:14; Isa. 43:10) We implore our heavenly Father: “Let your name be sanctified.” Your making such a request may move you to ask Jehovah to help you to avoid doing or saying anything that would dishonor his holy name. We do not want to be like some in the first century who did not practice what they preached. The apostle Paul wrote of them: “The name of God is being blasphemed among the nations because of you.”​—Rom. 2:21-24.

8, 9. Give an example of how Jehovah blesses those who are concerned about sanctifying his name.

⁸ We want to sanctify God’s name. After the untimely death of her husband, a sister in Norway was left alone with a two-year-old son. “It was a very difficult time in my life,” she explains. “I prayed every day, nearly every hour, for strength to keep my emotional balance so that I would not give Satan reason to taunt Jehovah because of any unwise decision or unfaithfulness on my part. I wanted to sanctify Jehovah’s name, and I wanted my son to see his father again in Paradise.”​—Prov. 27:11.

⁹ Did Jehovah answer such unselfish prayers? Yes. This sister received support from her regular association with caring fellow believers. Five years later, she married an elder. Her son, now 20 years old, is a baptized brother. “I am so happy,” she says, “that my husband helped me to raise him.”

10. What is needed for the complete sanctification of God’s name?

¹⁰ What is needed for God’s name to be completely sanctified and cleared of all reproach? For that to happen, Jehovah must act to remove all who willfully reject his sovereignty. (Read Ezekiel 38:22, 23.) Mankind will gradually be brought to perfection. How we long for the time when all intelligent creation will treat Jehovah’s name as holy! Then, at last, our loving heavenly Father will “be all things to everyone.”​—1 Cor. 15:28.

“LET YOUR KINGDOM COME”

11, 12. Toward the end of the 19th century, true Christians were given what insight?

¹¹ Before Jesus ascended to heaven, his apostles asked: “Lord, are you restoring the kingdom to Israel at this time?” Jesus’ answer showed that it was not the time for them to know when God’s Kingdom would start ruling. He told his disciples to focus on the important witnessing work that they needed to do. (Read Acts 1:6-8.) Nevertheless, Jesus taught his followers to look forward to the coming of God’s Kingdom. So Christians since the days of the apostles have been praying for it to come.

¹² When the time approached for God’s Kingdom in the hands of Jesus to start ruling from heaven, Jehovah helped his people to understand the timing of events. In 1876, an article written by Charles Taze Russell was published in the magazine Bible Examiner. That article, “Gentile Times: When Do They End?,” pointed to 1914 as a significant year. The article linked the “seven times” of Daniel’s prophecy with “the appointed times of the nations” spoken of by Jesus.a​—Dan. 4:16; Luke 21:24.

13. What happened in the year 1914, and what do world events since that time confirm?

¹³ In 1914, war broke out between nations of Europe​—a war that spread and engulfed the whole world. By the time it ended in 1918, terrible food shortages had been experienced and there was a flu epidemic in which more people died than were killed in the war. Thus “the sign” that Jesus had given to identify his invisible presence as earth’s new King started to be fulfilled. (Matt. 24:3-8; Luke 21:10, 11) Ample evidence points to the year 1914 as the time when “a crown was given” to the Lord Jesus Christ. He “went out conquering and to complete his conquest.” (Rev. 6:2) He cleansed the heavens in a war against Satan and his demons, who were hurled down to the vicinity of the earth. Ever since, mankind has experienced the truthfulness of these inspired words: “Woe for the earth and for the sea, because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing that he has a short period of time.”​—Rev. 12:7-12.

14. (a) Why is it still important to pray for God’s Kingdom to come? (b) What are we privileged to do?

¹⁴ The prophecy recorded at Revelation 12:7-12 explains why the birth of God’s Kingdom basically coincided with the beginning of the disastrous events that continue to plague mankind. Jesus, the King of God’s Kingdom, began to rule amid his enemies. Until his conquest is complete and he has brought an end to wickedness on earth, we will continue to pray for God’s Kingdom to come. At the same time, we must live in harmony with such prayers by sharing in the fulfillment of a most amazing feature of “the sign.” Jesus foretold: “This good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth for a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.”​—Matt. 24:14.

“LET YOUR WILL TAKE PLACE . . . ON EARTH”

15, 16. How can we live in harmony with the request for God’s will to take place on earth?

¹⁵ About 6,000 years ago, God’s will was being done perfectly on earth. That is why Jehovah could look upon the fine start he had given to mankind and say: “It was very good.” (Gen. 1:31) Then Satan rebelled, and ever since, comparatively few humans have done God’s will on earth. But today we are privileged to be alive at a time when about eight million Witnesses not only are praying for God’s will to take place on earth but also are striving to live in harmony with that prayer. They do so by their way of life and by having a zealous share in the disciple-making work.

¹⁶ For example, a sister who was baptized in 1948 and who served as a missionary in Africa says: “In line with this part of the model prayer, I often pray that all sheeplike people will be contacted and helped to come to know Jehovah before it is too late. Also, when I am about to witness to someone, I ask for wisdom to reach the person’s heart. And regarding sheeplike ones who have already been found, I pray that Jehovah will bless our efforts to care for them.” Little wonder that this 80-year-old sister has success in her ministry and, along with aid from others, has helped many to become Jehovah’s Witnesses. No doubt you can think of other good examples of individuals who pour themselves out in doing God’s will despite the limitations of old age.​—Read Philippians 2:17.

17. How do you feel about what Jehovah will yet do in answer to our request for his will to be done on earth?

¹⁷ Until the enemies of God’s Kingdom are removed from the earth, we will continue to pray for God’s will to be done. Then we will see God’s will taking place in an even more complete way as billions are resurrected on a paradise earth. “Do not be amazed at this,” Jesus said, “for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear [my] voice and come out.” (John 5:28, 29) What a wonderful time to be alive to welcome back our dead loved ones! God “will wipe out every tear from [our] eyes.” (Rev. 21:4) Most resurrected ones will be “the unrighteous,” who lived and died without learning the truth about Jehovah God and his Son. It will be a privilege to impart knowledge of God’s will and purpose to resurrected ones, thereby helping them to qualify for “everlasting life.”​—Acts 24:15; John 17:3.

18. What are mankind’s greatest needs?

¹⁸ Universal peace and harmony depend on the sanctification of Jehovah’s name by means of God’s Kingdom. Thus, the complete answer to the first three requests of the model prayer will fulfill mankind’s greatest needs. Meanwhile, we have other vital needs that are mentioned in the remaining four requests in Jesus’ model prayer. They will be discussed in the following article.

1-3. Why did one sister feel sure that Jehovah knows what we need?

LANA will never forget what happened one day in Germany in the summer of 2012. She feels that two of her specific prayers were answered. She offered the first prayer while on a long train ride to the airport. She asked Jehovah to open the way for her to give a witness. She offered the second prayer after she arrived at the airport and learned that her flight had been delayed until the next day. Lana prayed about the fact that she had used up most of her European currency and had no place to stay.

² Hardly had Lana finished the second prayer when she heard someone say, “Hello, Lana, what are you doing here?” The young man who was speaking was a former schoolmate. He was with his mother and grandmother, who were seeing him off on a flight to South Africa. On learning of Lana’s situation, the mother, Elke, warmly invited Lana to stay with them. Elke and her mother were hospitable to Lana and kept asking questions about her beliefs and her work as a full-time evangelizer.

³ The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, Lana answered more Bible questions, and she got her hosts’ contact information in order to follow up their interest. Lana returned home safely and continues her service as a regular pioneer. She feels that the “Hearer of prayer” was involved in how things worked out.​—Ps. 65:2.

4. What needs will we consider?

⁴ When we are suddenly faced with a problem, we may have no difficulty praying for help, and Jehovah is delighted to hear such pleas from his loyal ones. (Ps. 34:15; Prov. 15:8) If we meditate on the model prayer, however, we may find that there are other greater needs that we might overlook. For example, consider how our spiritual needs are revealed in the last three requests of the model prayer. And is there more we can do to live in harmony with the fourth request, concerning our daily bread?​—Read Matthew 6:11-13.

“GIVE US TODAY OUR BREAD FOR THIS DAY”

5, 6. Why is our request for our bread for the day important even if we have sufficient material things?

⁵ Notice that this is a personal request not purely for “my” bread for the day but for “our” bread for the day. Victor, a circuit overseer in Africa, explains: “I often sincerely thank Jehovah that my wife and I don’t have to be seriously concerned about where our next meal will come from, nor do we have to worry about who will pay the rent. Our brothers kindly look after us every day. But I do pray that those helping us will manage to handle the economic pressures they face.”

⁶ If we have sufficient food for many days, we can think of brothers who live in poverty or who are affected by disasters. We should not only pray for them but also act in harmony with our prayers. For example, we can share what we have with fellow worshippers in need. We can also regularly contribute to the worldwide work, knowing that such funds are used wisely.​—1 John 3:17.

7. How did Jesus illustrate his advice that we should “never be anxious about the next day”?

⁷ In referring to our daily bread, Jesus likely meant our immediate needs. Thus, he went on to show how God clothes the wildflowers, and then he said: “Will he not much rather clothe you, you with little faith? So never be anxious and say, . . . ‘What are we to wear?’” He concluded by repeating this important advice: “Never be anxious about the next day.” (Matt. 6:30-34) This shows that rather than be materialistic, we should be content with our basic daily needs. Such needs may include suitable accommodations, employment to provide for our family, and wisdom to cope with health concerns. If we were to pray only for such physical needs, however, it would indicate an imbalance. We have spiritual needs that are of much greater importance.

8. Jesus’ reference to our daily bread should remind us of what important need? (See opening image.)

⁸ Jesus’ reference to our daily bread should remind us of our need for spiritual food. “Man must live,” said our Master, “not on bread alone, but on every word that comes from Jehovah’s mouth.” (Matt. 4:4) So we should continue to pray that Jehovah will keep on feeding us with timely spiritual food.

“FORGIVE US OUR DEBTS”

9. In what sense are our sins “debts”?

⁹ Why did Jesus use the word “debts,” whereas on a later occasion, he spoke of “sins”? (Matt. 6:12; Luke 11:4) Over 60 years ago, this journal nicely explained: “A sin of transgression against God’s law puts us in debt to him. . . . For our sin God could demand and exact our lives. . . . He could withdraw his peace from us, breaking off all peaceful relations with us. . . . We owe him love, expressed in obedience; and when we sin we fail in paying our debt of love to him, for sin is unloving toward God.”​—1 John 5:3.

10. On what basis can Jehovah forgive our sins, and how should we feel about that?

¹⁰ Our daily need for forgiveness highlights the only legal basis on which God can cancel our sins​—Jesus’ ransom sacrifice. Though this ransom was paid nearly 2,000 years ago, we should cherish it as if it were a gift given today. “The ransom price” for our lives “is so precious” that nothing any imperfect human could do for us would come near to paying it. (Read Psalm 49:7-9; 1 Peter 1:18, 19.) Indeed, we should never cease to thank Jehovah for this great gift. Also, the expression “our sins,” not “my sins,” should remind us that all in our family of worshippers need this merciful provision. Clearly, Jehovah wants us to be concerned not only about our own spiritual welfare but also about that of others, including those who might have sinned against us. Usually, such sins are minor and give us an opportunity to show that we truly love our brothers and are willing to forgive, as God has mercifully forgiven us.​—Col. 3:13.

11. Why is it important to have a forgiving spirit?

¹¹ Sadly, as imperfect humans, we may sometimes harbor a grudge against another. (Lev. 19:18) If we talk about the matter, others may side with us, causing a division in the congregation. If we allow such a situation to continue, it would show a lack of appreciation for God’s mercy and the ransom. Our Father will cease to apply to us the value of his Son’s sacrifice if we display an unforgiving spirit. (Matt. 18:35) Jesus elaborated on this immediately after giving the model prayer. (Read Matthew 6:14, 15.) Finally, to benefit from God’s forgiveness, we must strive to avoid making a practice of serious sin. Our desire to avoid practicing sin leads to the next request.​—1 John 3:4, 6.

“DO NOT BRING US INTO TEMPTATION”

12, 13. (a) What happened to Jesus shortly after his baptism? (b) Why must we take responsibility if we fall into temptation? (c) What did Jesus accomplish by remaining faithful till death?

¹² Considering what happened to Jesus shortly after his baptism can help us to understand the need for the request: “Do not bring us into temptation.” Jesus was led into the wilderness by God’s spirit. Why? “To be tempted by the Devil.” (Matt. 4:1; 6:13) Should that surprise us? Not if we grasp the main reason why God sent his Son to the earth. That was to settle the issue raised when Adam and Eve rejected God’s sovereignty. Questions needed time to be settled. For example, was something wrong with the way God created man? Was it possible for a perfect human to uphold God’s sovereignty regardless of pressures from “the wicked one”? And would mankind be better off independent of God’s rulership, as Satan implied? (Gen. 3:4, 5) Answering such questions would require time but would show all intelligent creation that Jehovah exercises his sovereignty in a beneficial way.

¹³ Jehovah is holy and therefore never tempts anyone to do evil. Rather, it is the Devil who is “the Tempter.” (Matt. 4:3) The Devil can create tempting situations. Yet, it is up to each individual whether he will allow himself to be brought into temptation or not. (Read James 1:13-15.) For his part, Jesus immediately rejected each temptation by the use of a relevant quotation from God’s Word. Thus, Jesus upheld God’s rightful sovereignty. But Satan did not give up. He waited “until another convenient time.” (Luke 4:13) Jesus continued to resist all of Satan’s efforts to break his integrity. Christ upheld the righteousness of Jehovah’s sovereignty and proved that a perfect human can be faithful despite the most extreme test. However, Satan attempts to ensnare Jesus’ followers, including you.

14. We need to do what in order not to fall into temptation?

¹⁴ Because of the ongoing issue regarding God’s sovereignty, Jehovah allows the Tempter to use this world to tempt us. God is not bringing us into temptation. On the contrary, he has confidence in us and he wants to help us. Out of respect for our free will, though, Jehovah does not automatically prevent us from falling into temptation. We have to do two things​—remain spiritually awake and persist in prayer. How does Jehovah answer our prayers?

15, 16. (a) What are some temptations that we need to resist? (b) Who is responsible if a person falls into temptation?

¹⁵ Jehovah gives us his powerful holy spirit, which can strengthen us and help us to resist temptation. God also forewarns us through his Word and the congregation about situations that we must avoid, such as spending excessive time, money, and energy on nonessential material things. Espen and Janne live in an affluent European country. For many years, they were regular pioneers in a part of their country where the need was great. With the birth of their first child, they had to stop pioneering, and now they have a second child. “We often pray to Jehovah,” says Espen, “that we may not fall into temptation now that we are unable to spend as much time as we previously did in theocratic activities. We ask Jehovah to help us maintain our spirituality and zeal for the ministry.”

¹⁶ Another temptation that has come to the fore in modern times is the viewing of pornography. If we fall into such a temptation, we cannot blame Satan. Why? Because Satan and his world cannot force us to do anything against our will. Some have given in to this temptation by allowing their minds to dwell on what is bad. But we can resist, even as thousands of our brothers have done.​—1 Cor. 10:12, 13.

“DELIVER US FROM THE WICKED ONE”

17. (a) How can we live in harmony with our request to be delivered from the wicked one? (b) What relief must be near?

¹⁷ To live in harmony with the request “deliver us from the wicked one,” we must strive to be “no part of [Satan’s] world.” We must “not love either [Satan’s] world or the things in the world.” (John 15:19; 1 John 2:15-17) Doing so is an ongoing struggle. What a relief it will be when Jehovah answers this request by removing Satan and causing his wicked world to pass away! We must remember, though, that when Satan was hurled out of heaven, he knew that his time was short. Enraged, he does all he can to make us break our integrity. So we must keep praying for deliverance from him.​—Rev. 12:12, 17.

18. To survive the end of Satan’s world, what must we continue to do?

¹⁸ Do you desire such a happy outcome? Then continue to pray for God’s Kingdom to sanctify God’s name and cause his will to be done on earth. Look to Jehovah to supply your spiritual and physical needs. Yes, be determined to live in harmony with the model prayer.

AFTER Anitaa was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, her husband became fiercely opposed. “He prevented me from going to meetings and forbade me even to mention God’s name,” says Anita. “Just saying the name Jehovah caused my husband to fly into a rage.”

Teaching her children about Jehovah posed another serious challenge for Anita. “The worship of Jehovah was banned in my own home. I was not able to study openly with my children, nor could I take them to the meetings.”

As Anita’s experience illustrates, opposition from family members can be a real test of a Christian’s integrity. The same can be said of chronic health problems, the death of a child or a spouse, or a close family member’s turning his back on Jehovah. Hence, what can help a Christian to remain faithful to Jehovah?

In the face of such trials, what would you do? The apostle Paul said: “You need endurance.” (Heb. 10:36) But what can help you to endure?

PRAYERFUL RELIANCE ON JEHOVAH

One of the primary ways we gain the strength needed to endure trials is through prayerful reliance on God. Consider one example. Tragedy struck Ana’s family on a Monday afternoon. Her husband of 30 years passed away suddenly. “He never returned home from work,” says Ana, “and he was only 52 years old.”

How did Ana cope? She had to go back to work, which helped because her job required almost complete concentration but did not eliminate the pain she felt. She comments: “I poured out my heart to Jehovah and begged him to help me cope with my dreadful loss.” Did Jehovah answer her prayers? She is convinced that he did. She says: “The peace that only God can give soothed my soul and saved my sanity. I have no doubt that Jehovah will bring my husband back in the resurrection.”​—Phil. 4:6, 7.

The “Hearer of prayer” has promised to provide his servants with whatever they need to remain faithful to him. (Ps. 65:2) Would you not agree that this assurance is faith-strengthening? Does it not help you to see why you too can endure?

CHRISTIAN MEETINGS​—A SOURCE OF SUPPORT

Jehovah has supported his people through the Christian congregation. For example, during a time when the congregation in Thessalonica underwent severe persecution, Paul urged those Christians to “keep encouraging one another and building one another up, just as [they were] in fact doing.” (1 Thess. 2:14; 5:11) By drawing together in love and helping one another, the Thessalonian Christians were able to survive that test of their faith. Their record of endurance serves as an excellent example for us today and reveals something that can help us to endure.

Developing a close bond of friendship with members of the congregation can help us to share “things that build one another up.” (Rom. 14:19) This is especially important during times of distress. Paul himself experienced many tribulations, and Jehovah gave him the strength to endure. At times, God provided much encouragement to Paul through fellow believers. For example, when Paul sent personal greetings to members of the congregation in Colossae, he said about them: “They have become a source of great comfort to me.” (Col. 4:10, 11) Yes, their affection for Paul moved them to comfort and strengthen him when he was in need. It could well be that you have already received similar encouragement and support from members of your congregation.

SUPPORT FROM THE ELDERS

God has provided another source of support within the Christian congregation​—the elders. These spiritually mature men can be “like a hiding place from the wind, a place of concealment from the rainstorm, like streams of water in a waterless land, like the shadow of a massive crag in a parched land.” (Isa. 32:2) What a refreshing assurance! Have you taken advantage of this loving provision? The encouragement and support of the elders can help you to endure.

Of course, the elders are not miracle workers. They are imperfect humans, “having the same infirmities as [we] have.” (Acts 14:15) Still, their supplications in our behalf can accomplish much. (Jas. 5:14, 15) A brother in Italy who for many years has endured the degenerative effects of muscular dystrophy said: “The brothers’ love and affection along with their frequent visits have helped me to endure.” Could you benefit to a fuller degree from Jehovah’s loving provision​—the elders?

KEEP A REGULAR SPIRITUAL ROUTINE

There are yet other things we can do to endure. One is to maintain a regular spiritual routine. Consider the example of 39-year-old John, who was diagnosed with a rare cancer. He admits: “I felt cheated because I was so young.” At the time, John’s son was just three years old. “This meant that my wife not only had to look after our young child but also had to care for me, as well as help me with all my medical appointments,” says John. Chemotherapy treatments left John feeling extremely fatigued and nauseated. And that was not all. John’s father became terminally ill and needed family care.

How did John and his family cope with this difficult situation? “Despite my fatigue, I made sure that our family maintained a regular spiritual routine,” he reports. “We attended all the meetings, had a weekly share in the ministry, and had regular family worship even when it was difficult.” Indeed, John saw that a key to enduring any challenge is that of maintaining spirituality. Does he have any advice for those who are facing their own trying circumstances? He says: “After the initial shock wears off, the nagging thoughts will be replaced by Jehovah’s strength and love. Jehovah can make you strong, just as he has me.”

Without a doubt, with God’s backing we can endure difficult trials or circumstances that we may face​—now or in the future. Let us demonstrate prayerful reliance on Jehovah, develop a close bond of friendship with those in our congregation, draw support from Christian elders, and maintain a regular spiritual routine. By doing so, we will be acting in harmony with Paul’s words: “You need endurance.”

Have you carefully read the recent issues of The Watchtower? Well, see if you can answer the following questions:

Should Christians pray to Jesus Christ?

No. Jesus himself taught us to pray to Jehovah, and he set the example by praying to his Father. (Matt. 6:6-9; John 11:41; 16:23) Accordingly, his early followers prayed to God, not to Jesus. (Acts 4:24, 30; Col. 1:3)​—1/1, page 14.

What can we do yearly to prepare to commemorate Jesus’ death?

One thing we can do is keep up with the schedule of Bible reading related to this event. We can also make an effort to increase our ministry during this period. And we can give prayerful thought to our God-given hope.​—1/15, pages 14-16.

How did things turn out for the two Egyptian prisoners who related a puzzling dream to Joseph?

Joseph told Pharaoh’s cupbearer that he would be restored to his former position. As for the baker, his dream meant that Pharaoh would have him killed and hung on a stake. Both interpretations came true. (Gen. 40:1-22)​—2/1, pages 12-14.

What surprising gift did the brothers in Japan receive?

They received a booklet containing the book of Matthew from the New World Translation. It is being offered in the ministry, and it has been accepted by many people who are unfamiliar with the Bible.​—2/15, page 3.

What circumstances in the first century helped the spread of the good news?

The stability of Pax Romana meant that there was less strife. The early disciples could travel on a network of good roads. The Greek language was widely used, facilitating the preaching, even to Jews spread throughout the empire. And the disciples could use Roman law in defending the good news.​—2/15, pages 20-23.

Why do true Christians not celebrate Easter?

Jesus directed his followers to commemorate his death, not his resurrection. (Luke 22:19, 20)​—3/1, page 8.

In recent years, why are Biblical types and antitypes seldom discussed in our publications?

The Bible says that some individuals served as types of something greater. One example of this is found at Galatians 4:21-31. But otherwise, it is best not to imagine or assign antitypical applications. However, we can look for lessons to be learned from individuals and events mentioned in the Bible. (Rom. 15:4)​—3/15, pages 17-18.

Why is a papyrus fragment recovered from an ancient trash heap in Egypt of special interest?

In the last century, a fragment was found that contains portions of John’s Gospel. It may date from a few decades after John wrote his book, and the content confirms the text that has come down to us, underscoring the Bible’s reliability.​—4/1, pages 10-11.

Why is it loving to disfellowship an unrepentant wrongdoer?

The Bible outlines the serious step of disfellowshipping, which can bring benefits. (1 Cor. 5:11-13) It honors God’s name, protects the clean congregation, and may bring the wrongdoer to his senses.​—4/15, pages 29-30.