IT WAS early summer in 1970. I lay in my hospital bed at the Valley Forge General Hospital, Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, in the United States. A male nurse was taking my blood pressure every half hour. I was a 20-year-old soldier suffering from a serious infectious illness. The nurse, who was a few years older than I was, looked troubled. As my blood pressure continued to drop, I said, “You’ve never seen anybody die before, have you?” The color left his face, and he answered, “No, I haven’t.”

At that time, my future looked bleak. But how did I end up in the hospital? Well, let me tell you some of my life story.

MY INTRODUCTION TO WAR

I became ill while serving as an operating room technician during the war in Vietnam. I enjoyed helping the sick and injured and had the goal of becoming a surgeon. I landed in Vietnam in July 1969. Like all new arrivals, I was allowed one week of orientation so that I could adapt to the different time zone and the intense heat.

Soon after I reported for duty at a surgical hospital in the Mekong Delta, in Dong Tam, numerous helicopters filled with casualties arrived. I was very patriotic and loved to work, so I wanted to get involved right away. The wounded were prepared and then rushed to the small air-conditioned metal containers that served as operating rooms. There a surgeon, an anesthetist, a scrub nurse, and a circulating nurse were crammed into the tiny space, doing their best to save lives. I noticed that some cargo in large, black bags was not unloaded from the helicopters. I was told that those bags contained the body parts of soldiers who had been blown apart in battle. That was my introduction to war.

MY SEARCH FOR GOD

As a young person, I had some exposure to the truth taught by Jehovah’s Witnesses. My dear mother studied the Bible with the Witnesses, but she did not progress toward baptism. I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in on my mother’s studies. About that same time, I went by a Kingdom Hall with my stepfather. I asked him, “What is that?” He answered, “Don’t ever go near those people!” Because I loved and trusted my stepfather, I took his advice. Thus, I lost contact with Jehovah’s Witnesses.

After returning from Vietnam, I felt a need for God in my life. Painful memories had numbed me emotionally. It seemed that no one really understood what was going on in Vietnam. I remember demonstrations where protesters called the U.S. soldiers baby killers because of reports that innocent children were being slaughtered in the war.

To satisfy my spiritual hunger, I began attending services at different churches. I had always had a love for God but was not impressed with what I experienced in the churches. Finally, I ended up going to a Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Delray Beach, Florida. It was on a Sunday in February 1971.

When I entered, the public talk was about to end, so I stayed for the study of The Watchtower that followed. I do not remember the subject being discussed, but I still remember the small children who were turning the pages of their Bibles to locate scriptures. That really impressed me! I quietly listened and observed. As I was leaving the Kingdom Hall, a dear brother who was about 80 years old approached me. His name was Jim Gardner. He held out a book entitled The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life and asked, “Would you please accept this?” We set up an appointment for Thursday morning to have our first Bible study.

That Sunday night I had to work. I was employed at a private hospital in Boca Raton, Florida, where I worked in the emergency room. My shift was from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Since it was a quiet night, I was able to read the Truth book. A senior nurse approached me, grabbed the book out of my hands, looked at the cover and yelled, “You’re not going to be one of them, are you?” I grabbed my Truth book back and said, “I’m only halfway through the book, but it sure looks like it!” She left me alone, and I finished reading the book that night.

I began my first Bible study with Brother Gardner by asking, “So, what are we going to study?” He answered, “The book that I gave you.” I said, “I’ve already read it.” Brother Gardner kindly replied, “Well, let’s just consider this first chapter.” I was amazed at how much I had missed. He had me look up many scriptures in my red-letter edition of the King James Version of the Bible. I was finally learning about the true God, Jehovah. Brother Gardner, whom I affectionately called Jim, studied three chapters of the Truth book with me that morning. Every Thursday morning thereafter, we studied three chapters. I thoroughly enjoyed those studies. What a privilege it was for me to be taught by that anointed brother who had personally known Charles T. Russell!

After a few weeks, I was approved to be a publisher of the good news. Jim helped me with my many concerns, including the challenge of the house-to-house ministry. (Acts 20:20) As Jim worked along with me, I came to enjoy the preaching work. I still regard the ministry as my greatest privilege. How delightful it is to be God’s fellow worker!​—1 Cor. 3:9.

MY FIRST LOVE FOR JEHOVAH

Now let me tell you about a very personal matter​—my first love for Jehovah. (Rev. 2:4) That love for Jehovah has helped me to deal with painful wartime memories and many other trials.​—Isa. 65:17.

I recall a special day in the spring of 1971. I had recently been evicted from the condominium where my parents had allowed me to live. My stepfather was not going to have one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on his property! I did not have much money at that time. The hospital where I worked paid me every two weeks, and I had just spent most of my check on dress clothes so that I could engage in the ministry and properly represent Jehovah. I had some money saved, but it was in a bank in Michigan, the state I grew up in. So I needed to live out of my car for a few days. I would shave and clean up at gas-station restrooms.

One day during the time I was living in my car, I arrived at the Kingdom Hall a couple of hours before the group met for field service. I had just finished my shift at the hospital. As I sat behind the Kingdom Hall where no one could see me, the memories of Vietnam​—the smell of burned human flesh and the sight of blood and gore—​began to overwhelm me. In my mind, I could hear and vividly see young men begging me, “Am I going to make it? Am I going to make it?” I knew they would die, but I tried to comfort them the best I could while keeping my eyes from revealing the truth. As I sat there, I was flooded with emotion.

I prayed as a torrent of tears poured down my cheeks. (Ps. 56:8) I began to think deeply about the resurrection hope. Then it hit me: By means of the resurrection, Jehovah God will undo all the carnage I had seen and the emotional pain I and others had experienced. God will bring those young men back to life, and they will have the opportunity to learn the truth about him. (Acts 24:15) At that point, my heart overflowed with love for Jehovah that touched the deepest part of my soul. That day remains special to me. Since then, I have done my best, especially when going through trials and difficulties, never to lose my first love for Jehovah.

JEHOVAH HAS BEEN GOOD TO ME

In war, people do terrible things. I was no exception. But I have been helped by meditating on two of my favorite scriptures. The first is Revelation 12:10, 11, which says that the Devil is conquered not only by the word of our witnessing but also by the blood of the Lamb. The second is Galatians 2:20. From that verse, I know that Christ Jesus died “for me.” Jehovah looks at me through the blood of Jesus, and He has forgiven me for what I have done. Knowing that fact has enabled me to have a cleansed conscience and has motivated me to do all I can to help others come to know the truth about our merciful God, Jehovah!​—Heb. 9:14.

As I look back on my life, I deeply appreciate that Jehovah has always taken care of me. For example, the very day Jim found out that I was living out of my car, he put me in contact with a sister who owned a boarding house. I truly believe that Jehovah used Jim and that dear sister to provide a nice place for me to stay. Jehovah is so kind! He takes care of his faithful worshippers.

LEARNING TO BALANCE ZEAL WITH TACT

In May 1971, it became necessary for me to go to Michigan to care for some business. Before leaving the Delray Beach Congregation in Florida, I filled the trunk of my car with literature, and then I headed north on Interstate 75. The trunk was empty before I left the adjoining state of Georgia. I zealously preached the good news of the Kingdom in all sorts of places. I stopped at prisons and even placed tracts with men in the restrooms of the rest areas. To this day, I wonder if any of those seeds that were planted ever sprouted.​—1 Cor. 3:6, 7.

I must confess, however, that when I first learned the truth, I was not very tactful, especially when I talked to my immediate family. Because my first love for Jehovah burned so strongly within me, I boldly but bluntly preached to them. I dearly love my brothers, John and Ron, and forcefully shared the truth with them. I later had to apologize for my insensitive manner. However, I never cease praying that they will accept the truth. Since then, Jehovah has educated me, and I have become more tactful when I preach and teach.​—Col. 4:6.

OTHER LOVES IN MY LIFE

While I certainly remember my love for Jehovah, I do not forget the other loves in my life. My next love is my precious wife, Susan. I knew that I wanted a partner who would assist me in carrying out the Kingdom work. Susan is a strong, spiritual woman. I vividly remember visiting her one day when we were dating. Susan was sitting on the front porch of her parents’ home in Cranston, Rhode Island. She was reading The Watchtower along with her Bible. What impressed me was that she was reading one of the secondary articles and looking up the scriptures. I thought, ‘This is a spiritual woman!’ We got married in December 1971, and I am grateful that ever since, she has stayed by my side and supported me. What I really appreciate about her is that while she loves me, she loves Jehovah more.

Susan and I were blessed with two sons, Jesse and Paul. As they grew up, Jehovah was with them. (1 Sam. 3:19) Because they made the truth their own, they make Susan and me look good. They have continued to serve Jehovah because they have remembered their own first love for him. Each of them has been in full-time service for over 20 years. Also, I am proud of my two beautiful daughters-in-law, Stephanie and Racquel, whom I view as my own daughters. Both of my sons married spiritual women who love Jehovah God with all their heart and soul.​—Eph. 6:6.

After my baptism, I served for 16 years in Rhode Island, where I developed precious friendships. I have many wonderful memories of outstanding elders with whom I served. In addition, I am grateful for traveling overseers, too numerous to mention, who had a good influence on me. What a great privilege to work along with men who have maintained their first love for Jehovah! In 1987 we moved to North Carolina to serve where the need was greater, and there we developed additional precious relationships.a

In August 2002, Susan and I accepted the invitation to become a part of the Patterson Bethel family in the United States. I worked in the Service Department, and Susan in the laundry. She loved working there! Then, in August 2005, I was given the privilege of serving as a member of the Governing Body. I felt humbled by the assignment. My dear wife was overwhelmed by the thought of the responsibility, the work, and the travel involved. Susan has never been comfortable with flying, but we do a lot of flying! Susan says that comments from other wives of Governing Body members, given in a loving way, have helped her to be determined to support me as much as possible. She certainly has done that, and I love her for it.

In my office I am surrounded by many pictures that mean so much to me! They remind me of what a great life I have enjoyed. I have already received many wonderful rewards for doing my best to remember my first love for Jehovah!

1. Explain how a spirit creature became Satan.

AT ONE TIME, he enjoyed a fine standing with Jehovah. At some point, however, this spirit creature began to desire the worship of humans. Rather than dismiss that improper desire, he nurtured it and let it grow until it gave birth to sin. (Jas. 1:14, 15) We know that creature as Satan, who “did not stand fast in the truth.” He rebelled against Jehovah and became “the father of the lie.”​—John 8:44.

2, 3. What do the terms “Satan,” “Devil,” “serpent,” and “dragon” reveal about Jehovah’s greatest enemy?

² Since his rebellion, Satan has proved to be Jehovah’s greatest enemy, and he certainly has not been a friend of mankind. The titles given to Satan reveal the depth of his corruption. Satan means “Resister,” indicating that this wicked spirit creature does not support God’s sovereignty; rather, he hates it and aggressively fights it. More than anything else, Satan wants to see the end of Jehovah’s sovereignty.

³ As noted at Revelation 12:9, Satan is called Devil, meaning “Slanderer.” This reminds us that Satan has defamed Jehovah by calling him a liar. The words “the original serpent” bring to mind that tragic day in Eden when Satan used a snake to deceive Eve. The expression “the great dragon” brings to mind thoughts of a terrifying monster and aptly fits Satan’s savage craving to obstruct Jehovah’s purpose and destroy His people.

4. What will be discussed in this article?

⁴ Clearly, Satan poses the greatest threat to our integrity. For good reason, the Bible admonishes us: “Keep your senses, be watchful! Your adversary, the Devil, walks about like a roaring lion, seeking to devour someone.” (1 Pet. 5:8) In view of that warning, this article will consider three characteristics of Satan that underscore the need to guard against this unscrupulous enemy of Jehovah and His people.

SATAN IS POWERFUL

5, 6. (a) Give examples showing that spirit creatures are “mighty in power.” (b) In what sense does Satan have “the means to cause death”?

⁵ Spirit creatures called angels are “mighty in power.” (Ps. 103:20) They are superior to humans and thus have greater intellect and strength. Of course, faithful angels use their power for good. For example, on one occasion an angel of Jehovah struck down 185,000 enemy Assyrian soldiers​—a feat that would have been impossible for one human and difficult even for an entire army. (2 Ki. 19:35) On another occasion an angel used his superhuman power and ingenuity to release Jesus’ apostles from jail. That spirit creature eluded security measures, unlocked the doors, let out the apostles, and then locked the doors behind them​—all of that while guards were stationed nearby!​—Acts 5:18-23.

⁶ Whereas faithful spirit creatures use their power for good, Satan uses his power for evil. And what power and influence he has! The Scriptures refer to him as “the ruler of this world” and “the god of this system of things.” (John 12:31; 2 Cor. 4:4) Satan the Devil even has “the means to cause death.” (Heb. 2:14) This does not mean that he kills all people directly. However, his murderous spirit has permeated this world. Moreover, because Eve believed Satan’s lie and Adam disobeyed God, sin and death spread to all mankind. (Rom. 5:12) In that sense, the Devil has had “the means to cause death.” He is what Jesus called him​—“a murderer.” (John 8:44) What a powerful enemy we have in Satan!

7. How have the demons shown themselves to be powerful?

⁷ When we oppose Satan, we align ourselves against not only him but all those who side with him in the issue of universal sovereignty. That number includes a sizable group of other spirit rebels, or demons. (Rev. 12:3, 4) Time and again, the demons have demonstrated their superhuman strength, causing great misery to those whom they have tormented. (Matt. 8:28-32; Mark 5:1-5) Never underestimate the power of such wicked angels or that of “the ruler of the demons.” (Matt. 9:34) Without help from Jehovah, we could never win our fight against Satan.

SATAN IS VICIOUS

8. (a) What is Satan’s goal? (See opening image.) (b) From your own observation, how does this world reflect Satan’s vicious spirit?

⁸ The apostle Peter likened Satan to “a roaring lion.” According to one reference work, the Greek word translated “roaring” denotes “the howl of a beast in fierce hunger.” How well that describes Satan’s vicious disposition! Although the whole world already lies in his power, Satan is hungry for more victims. (1 John 5:19) To him, the world might be a mere “appetizer.” In effect, Satan has turned his attention to the “main course”​—the anointed remnant, who are accompanied by their companions, the “other sheep.” (John 10:16; Rev. 12:17) Satan is intent on devouring Jehovah’s people. The waves of persecution he has unleashed against Jesus’ followers from the first century until now give evidence of his vicious spirit.

9, 10. (a) How did Satan try to hinder God’s purpose with regard to the nation of Israel? (Give examples.) (b) Why did Satan have special reason to focus his attention on ancient Israel? (c) How do you think the Devil feels when one of Jehovah’s servants commits a serious sin today?

⁹ In his attempts to hinder God’s purpose, Satan shows himself to be vicious in yet another way. A famished lion feels no pity for its prey. It feels no compassion before the kill and experiences no remorse afterward. In a similar way, Satan has shown no pity for those whom he tries to devour. For example, think about how often Satan the Devil must have been lurking somewhere when the Israelites succumbed to such sins as sexual immorality and greed. When you read about the tragic consequences that befell immoral Zimri and greedy Gehazi, for instance, can you “see” the roaring lion reveling in his conquest?​—Num. 25:6-8, 14, 15; 2 Ki. 5:20-27.

¹⁰ Satan had special reason to focus his attention on ancient Israel. After all, that nation was to produce the Messiah​—the very one who would crush Satan and vindicate Jehovah’s sovereignty. (Gen. 3:15) Satan did not want the Israelites to thrive, and he was vicious in his efforts to contaminate them with sin. Do not imagine that Satan felt sorry for David when he committed adultery or had any sympathy for Moses when that prophet was no longer qualified to enter the Promised Land. On the contrary, Satan no doubt rejoices when one of God’s servants becomes stained with serious sin. In fact, such victories may be among the things the Devil uses to taunt Jehovah.​—Prov. 27:11.

11. What interest might Satan have had in targeting Sarah?

¹¹ Satan had particular animosity for the family line that would produce the Messiah. For example, consider what happened shortly after Abraham was told that he would become “a great nation.” (Gen. 12:1-3) While Abraham and Sarah were in Egypt, Pharaoh had Sarah brought to his home​—evidently so that she could become his wife. However, Jehovah intervened and saved Sarah from this moral predicament. (Read Genesis 12:14-20.) Shortly before the birth of Isaac, a similar incident occurred in Gerar. (Gen. 20:1-7) Was Satan behind the scenes on those occasions? Did he hope that Sarah, who left prosperous Ur to dwell in tents, would be seduced by the luxurious palaces of Pharaoh and Abimelech? Was Satan thinking that Sarah would betray her husband​—and Jehovah—​and enter an adulterous marriage? The Bible does not say, but we have good reason to believe that the Devil would have been delighted to render Sarah unfit to bear the promised offspring. Satan would have suffered no pangs of guilt that a good woman’s marriage, reputation, and standing with Jehovah would have been marred. How vicious Satan is!

12, 13. (a) How did Satan show his vicious disposition after the birth of Jesus? (b) How do you think Satan feels about young ones who love Jehovah and strive to serve Him today?

¹² Jesus was born centuries after Abraham. Do not imagine that Satan thought that this infant was beautiful, cuddly, or precious. No, for Satan knew that this newborn child would grow up to become the promised Messiah. Indeed, Jesus was the primary part of Abraham’s offspring, the one who would later “break up the works of the Devil.” (1 John 3:8) Would Satan reason that taking the life of a baby was going too far? Satan has no noble code of ethics. And with regard to the child Jesus, Satan did not hesitate to act. How?

¹³ King Herod was greatly upset when astrologers inquired about “the one born king of the Jews,” and he was determined to kill him. (Matt. 2:1-3, 13) To make sure that the job was done, he ordered the execution of all boys two years of age and younger who were living in Bethlehem and its districts. (Read Matthew 2:13-18.) Jesus escaped death in that unimaginable slaughter, but what does this tell us about our enemy Satan? It is evident that the Devil places no value on human life. He certainly does not have a soft spot for children. Satan truly is “a roaring lion.” Never underestimate his vicious disposition!

SATAN IS DECEPTIVE

14, 15. How has Satan “blinded the minds of the unbelievers”?

¹⁴ Only by being deceptive can Satan turn people against the loving God, Jehovah. (1 John 4:8) Through deception, Satan keeps people from becoming “conscious of their spiritual need.” (Matt. 5:3) He has thus “blinded the minds of the unbelievers, so that the illumination of the glorious good news about the Christ, who is the image of God, might not shine through.”​—2 Cor. 4:4.

¹⁵ One of Satan’s greatest means of deception is false religion. How pleased he must be to see people worship their ancestors, or nature, or animals​—anyone or anything other than Jehovah, “who requires exclusive devotion”! (Ex. 20:5) Even many who think that they are worshipping God properly are shackled to false beliefs and useless rituals. They are in a pitiable state, much like that of those whom Jehovah implored: “Why do you keep paying out money for what is not bread, and why spend your earnings for what brings no satisfaction? Listen intently to me, and eat what is good, and you will find great delight in what is truly rich.”​—Isa. 55:2.

16, 17. (a) Why did Jesus tell Peter: “Get behind me, Satan”? (b) How might Satan deceive us regarding the matter of urgency?

¹⁶ Satan can fool even zealous servants of Jehovah. For example, consider what happened when Jesus told his disciples that he was about to be killed. No doubt with good motive, the apostle Peter took him aside and said: “Be kind to yourself, Lord; you will not have this happen to you at all.” Jesus’ reply to Peter was firm: “Get behind me, Satan!” (Matt. 16:22, 23) Why did Jesus call Peter “Satan”? Because Jesus understood what was about to happen. The hour approached when he would die as a ransom sacrifice and prove the Devil a liar. At that critical juncture in human history, it was not a time for Jesus to “be kind” to himself. Relaxing his guard would have been precisely what Satan wanted him to do.

¹⁷ As we near the end of this system of things, we too are living in critical times. Satan wants us to relax our guard, to “be kind” to ourselves by carving out a niche in this world, thus losing our sense of urgency. Do not let that happen to you! Instead, “keep on the watch.” (Matt. 24:42) Never believe Satan’s deceptive propaganda that the end is far off​—or that it is not coming at all.

18, 19. (a) How might Satan try to deceive us with regard to the way we think about ourselves? (b) How does Jehovah help us to keep our senses and to remain watchful?

¹⁸ Satan tries to deceive us in yet another way. He would have us believe that from God’s standpoint we are unlovable and our sins are unforgivable. That is all part of Satan’s deceptive propaganda. After all, who is particularly and really unlovable in Jehovah’s eyes? It is Satan. Who is really unforgivable? Again, it is Satan. But the Bible assures us: “God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name.” (Heb. 6:10) Jehovah appreciates our efforts to please him, and our service is not in vain. (Read 1 Corinthians 15:58.) So let us not be fooled by Satan’s deceptive propaganda.

¹⁹ As we have seen, Satan is powerful, vicious, and deceptive. How can we win our battle against such a daunting enemy? Jehovah does not leave us defenseless. His Word educates us about Satan’s methods, and “we are not ignorant of his designs.” (2 Cor. 2:11) When we understand Satan’s tactics, we are better able to keep our senses and remain watchful. But just knowing Satan’s designs is not enough. The Bible says: “Oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you.” (Jas. 4:7) The following article will discuss three areas in which we can fight Satan and win.

1. (a) Why is our fight against Satan especially important now? (b) How do we know that it is possible for us to win the battle against Satan?

SATAN is at war with the anointed remnant and the “other sheep.” (John 10:16) The Devil’s goal is to devour as many of Jehovah’s servants as he can in the short time that he has left. (Read Revelation 12:9, 12.) Can we win our fight against Satan? Yes! The Bible says: “Oppose the Devil, and he will flee from you.”​—Jas. 4:7.

2, 3. (a) How does the idea that Satan does not exist actually further the Devil’s objectives? (b) How do you know that Satan is real?

² Many scoff at the idea that Satan even exists. To them, Satan and the demons are fictional characters of novels, horror movies, and video games. Such people feel that no intelligent person believes in wicked spirits. Now, do you think that it bothers Satan that he and his invisible cohorts have been relegated to the world of folklore? That is not likely! After all, it is easy for Satan to blind the minds of those who doubt that he exists. (2 Cor. 4:4) Promoting the idea that spirits do not exist is one of the many ways that Satan uses to mislead people.

³ As servants of Jehovah, we are not among those who are misled. We know that the Devil is real, for it was Satan who spoke to Eve through a serpent. (Gen. 3:1-5) Satan taunted Jehovah regarding Job. (Job 1:9-12) It was Satan who tried to tempt Jesus. (Matt. 4:1-10) And after the birth of God’s Kingdom in 1914, it was Satan who began “to wage war” with the remnant of anointed ones. (Rev. 12:17) That war still rages as Satan seeks to destroy the faith of the remnant of the 144,000 and the other sheep. To win the battle, we must take our stand against Satan and remain firm in the faith. This article discusses three ways to do so.

SHUN PRIDE

4. How has Satan shown himself to be full of pride?

⁴ Satan is anything but humble. In fact, for a spirit creature to have the audacity to challenge Jehovah’s sovereignty and set himself up as a rival god is the epitome of pride and presumptuousness. Therefore, one way that we can take a stand against Satan is by shunning pride and cultivating humility. (Read 1 Peter 5:5.) But what is pride? Is it always bad?

5, 6. (a) Is pride always bad? Explain. (b) What kind of pride is dangerous, and what Scriptural examples illustrate this?

⁵ One dictionary defines pride as “a sense of dignity and self-respect” and “a feeling of satisfaction which you have because you or people close to you have done something good or possess something good.” There is nothing wrong with that. The apostle Paul told the Thessalonians: “We ourselves take pride in you among the congregations of God because of your endurance and faith in all your persecutions and the hardships that you are suffering.” (2 Thess. 1:4) So feeling good about the works of others and even having a degree of pride in ourselves can be healthy. We are not expected to be ashamed of our family, culture, or the region where we grew up.​—Acts 21:39.

⁶ On the other hand, there is a kind of pride that can eat away at relationships and damage our friendship with Jehovah. Such pride can cause us to resent and reject needed counsel rather than humbly accept it. (Ps. 141:5) This type of pride is defined as “inordinate self-esteem” or “a haughty attitude shown by people who believe, often unjustifiably, that they are better than others.” Jehovah hates arrogant pride. (Ezek. 33:28; Amos 6:8) But Satan must delight to see humans display boastful pride, for it echoes his own arrogance. How Satan must have reveled in the boasting of such men as Nimrod, Pharaoh, and Absalom​—all of whom fell victim to improper pride! (Gen. 10:8, 9; Ex. 5:1, 2; 2 Sam. 15:4-6) Pride also played a role in the downfall of Cain. He was counseled by God himself but was too proud to accept the correction. He stubbornly ignored Jehovah’s admonition and rushed headlong into disaster.​—Gen. 4:6-8.

7, 8. (a) What is racism, and how can it be a form of pride? (b) Explain how pride could disrupt a congregation’s peace.

⁷ Today, people manifest pride in a number of destructive ways. Pride sometimes goes hand in hand with racism. One dictionary defines racism as “prejudice or animosity against people who belong to other races” and “the belief that people of different races have different qualities and abilities, and that some races are inherently superior or inferior.” Racial pride has led to riots, wars, and even mass murder.

⁸ Of course, such things should not take place in the Christian congregation. Nevertheless, disputes between fellow believers, which sometimes start with pride, can spiral out of control. Evidently, that was true of some first-century Christians to whom James wrote this penetrating question: “What is the source of the wars and fights among you?” (Jas. 4:1) Yes, deep-seated feelings of animosity and superiority can affect our speech and actions, causing untold pain to others. (Prov. 12:18) Clearly, pride can disrupt the peace of a congregation.

9. How does the Bible help us combat racism and other forms of improper pride? (See opening image.)

⁹ If we personally have a tendency to feel superior to others, we need to remember that “everyone proud in heart is detestable to Jehovah.” (Prov. 16:5) We would also do well to examine our view of those who belong to another race, nationality, or culture. If we harbor feelings of racial or national pride, we ignore the fact that God “made out of one man every nation of men.” (Acts 17:26) In that sense, there is just one race because all mankind has a common ancestor, Adam. Therefore, how absurd it is to believe that some races are inherently superior or inferior. Such thinking would suit Satan’s scheme to disrupt our Christian love and unity. (John 13:35) To fight Satan and win, we must resist all forms of improper pride.​—Prov. 16:18.

AVOID MATERIALISM AND LOVE FOR THE WORLD

10, 11. (a) Why might it be easy to develop love for the world? (b) How might Demas have displayed love for the world?

¹⁰ Satan is “the ruler of this world,” and it is lying in his power. (John 12:31; 1 John 5:19) Therefore, much of what this world promotes runs counter to the standards set forth in the Bible. Of course, not everything the world offers is evil. However, we should expect that Satan would use his world to exploit our desires and try to induce us to sin or to develop love for the world and neglect our worship of Jehovah.​—Read 1 John 2:15, 16.

¹¹ Evidently, love for the world affected some first-century Christians. For example, Paul wrote: “Demas has forsaken me because he loved the present system of things.” (2 Tim. 4:10) The Bible does not specifically say what aspect of the world Demas loved, causing him to abandon Paul. It could be that Demas began to love material things more than spiritual pursuits. If that was the case, Demas missed out on thrilling spiritual privileges​—and for what? Could the world possibly offer Demas anything that would surpass the blessings Jehovah could give him as an associate of Paul?​—Prov. 10:22.

12. In what ways could we fall victim to “the deceptive power of riches”?

¹² Something similar can happen to us. As Christians, we have a normal desire to provide materially for ourselves and our family. (1 Tim. 5:8) Jehovah wants us to live comfortably​—a fact that becomes clear when we consider the beautiful surroundings that he provided for Adam and Eve. (Gen. 2:9) But Satan can exploit our desires with “the deceptive power of riches.” (Matt. 13:22) Many think that money will make them happy or that material possessions are the key to success. Such thinking is pure deception, and it can cause us to lose the most valuable possession we have​—our friendship with Jehovah. Jesus warned his followers: “No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. You cannot slave for God and for Riches.” (Matt. 6:24) If we slave exclusively for Riches, we have stopped serving Jehovah, and that is precisely what Satan wants us to do! May we never let money or the things it can buy eclipse our friendship with Jehovah. To fight Satan, we must maintain a balanced view of material things.​—Read 1 Timothy 6:6-10.

RESIST SEXUAL IMMORALITY

13. How has this world promoted a distorted view of marriage and sex?

¹³ Another trap of Satan’s world is sexual immorality. Today, many people view marital faithfulness​—and even marriage itself—​as restrictive and old-fashioned. For example, one famous actress stated: “Monogamy is impossible for both sexes. I don’t know anyone who’s faithful or wants to be.” An actor said: “I’m not sure if it really is in our nature to be with someone for the rest of our lives.” Satan must be pleased when influential people malign God’s gift of marriage. The Devil certainly has no interest in endorsing that arrangement or seeing it succeed. To fight Satan and win, therefore, we must uphold God’s marital arrangement.

14, 15. How can we resist sexual immorality?

¹⁴ Whether married or single, we must strenuously resist all forms of sexual immorality. Is the fight easy? By no means! If you are a young person, for instance, you might hear your schoolmates boast about having casual sex or about sexting, a practice that in some places is viewed as being tantamount to distributing child pornography. The Bible says: “Whoever practices sexual immorality is sinning against his own body.” (1 Cor. 6:18) Both suffering and death have resulted from the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. And the majority of unmarried youths who lose their virginity say that they regret what they did. The reality of immoral sex is far different from what is portrayed by the entertainment media, which would have us believe that breaking God’s laws has no consequences. Such thinking makes people fall victim to “the deceptive power of sin.”​—Heb. 3:13.

¹⁵ If you struggle with temptation to engage in sexual immorality, what can you do? Acknowledge your weakness. (Rom. 7:22, 23) Pray to God for strength. (Phil. 4:6, 7, 13) Avoid situations that could lead to immorality. (Prov. 22:3) And when a temptation arises, reject it without delay.​—Gen. 39:12.

16. How did Jesus respond to Satan’s temptations, and what can we learn from that example?

¹⁶ Jesus set a powerful example for us in resisting temptations. He was not fooled by Satan’s promises, nor did he have to take time to weigh the pros and cons. Rather, he immediately responded with the words: “It is written.” (Read Matthew 4:4-10.) Jesus knew God’s Word, and that made it possible for him to act quickly and quote scriptures in the face of temptation. To fight Satan and win, we must not allow ourselves to be tempted to engage in sexual immorality.​—1 Cor. 6:9, 10.

WIN THE FIGHT BY ENDURING

17, 18. (a) What other weapons are in Satan’s arsenal, and why should this not surprise us? (b) What is in store for Satan, and how does that encourage you to endure?

¹⁷ Pride, materialism, and sexual immorality are just three weapons at Satan’s disposal. There are many more. For example, some Christians face opposition from family members, ridicule from schoolmates, or even restrictions on their preaching work from governmental authorities. Such hardships do not surprise us, for Jesus warned his followers: “You will be hated by all people on account of my name, but the one who has endured to the end will be saved.”​—Matt. 10:22.

¹⁸ How can we fight Satan and win? Jesus told his disciples: “By your endurance you will preserve your lives.” (Luke 21:19) Nothing that any human can do will cause us permanent harm. Nobody can take away our precious friendship with God unless we allow that to happen. (Rom. 8:38, 39) Even the death of Jehovah’s servants does not score a victory for Satan, for Jehovah will see to it that they are resurrected! (John 5:28, 29) On the other hand, Satan’s prospects are bleak indeed. After the destruction of his ungodly system, Satan will be abyssed for 1,000 years. (Rev. 20:1-3) At the end of Jesus’ Thousand Year Reign, Satan will be “released from his prison” for a short time to make a final attempt to mislead perfect mankind. After that, the Devil will be destroyed. (Rev. 20:7-10) Satan faces certain doom, but that is not true of you! Take your stand against Satan, firm in the faith. You can fight Satan and win!

1. How can we benefit from our ability to visualize things we have not seen? (See opening image.)

OUR ability to form mental pictures of things we have not seen is a gift from God. It allows us to make wise plans and to look forward to good things. Jehovah can foresee future events, and in the Scriptures he often tells us ahead of time what will happen. We may be able to form mental pictures of what will occur. In fact, our ability to conceive of unseen things helps us to exercise faith.​—2 Cor. 4:18.

2, 3. (a) Why is the basis for what we visualize important? (b) What questions will we consider in this study?

² A mental picture of something we have never seen may not always be based on reality. For example, if a little girl pictures herself riding on a butterfly, that is mere fantasy. But when Hannah spent time thinking about what it would be like when she took her son Samuel to serve at the tabernacle, she had a basis for her mental picture. It was based on what she had resolved to do, and this helped her to focus on her objective. (1 Sam. 1:22) If we visualize what God has promised to do, we are thinking about something that will definitely happen.​—2 Pet. 1:19-21.

³ No doubt, many faithful people of Bible times formed mental pictures of things God had promised. How did such individuals benefit by visualizing future blessings? And how may we find it beneficial to think about the wonderful things God has foretold for obedient mankind?

STRENGTHENED BY “SEEING” THEIR HOPE

4. What basis did Abel have for forming a mental picture of the future?

⁴ Did Abel, the first faithful human, “see” anything that Jehovah had promised? It cannot be said that Abel had foreknowledge of the eventual outworking of the promise contained in God’s words to the serpent: “I will put enmity between you and the woman and between your offspring and her offspring. He will crush your head, and you will strike him in the heel.” (Gen. 3:14, 15) However, Abel likely gave much thought to that promise and realized that someone would be ‘struck in the heel’ so that mankind could be lifted to perfection such as that enjoyed by Adam and Eve before they sinned. Whatever Abel may have visualized regarding the future, he had faith based on God’s promise, and Jehovah therefore accepted his sacrifice.​—Read Genesis 4:3-5; Hebrews 11:4.

5. Why would a mental picture of the future have encouraged Enoch?

⁵ Faithful Enoch exercised faith, even though he faced ungodly people who spoke shocking things against God. Enoch was divinely inspired to prophesy that Jehovah would come “with his holy myriads to execute judgment against all, and to convict all the ungodly concerning all their ungodly deeds that they did in an ungodly way, and concerning all the shocking things that ungodly sinners spoke against him.” (Jude 14, 15) As a man who exercised faith, Enoch could have formed a mental picture of a world free of ungodliness.​—Read Hebrews 11:5, 6.

6. What could Noah continue to keep in mind after the Flood?

⁶ Noah survived the Deluge because of his faith. (Heb. 11:7) After the Flood, he was moved by faith to offer animal sacrifices. (Gen. 8:20) Like Abel, he undoubtedly had faith that mankind would eventually be released from bondage to sin and death. As he entered the dark post-Flood era during which Nimrod acted in opposition to Jehovah, Noah still had faith and hope. (Gen. 10:8-12) Very likely, he would have been heartened to think about mankind as being set free from oppressive rule, inherited sin, and death. We too can “see” such a wonderful time​—and it is near indeed!​—Rom. 6:23.

“SEEING” THE PROMISES FULFILLED

7. What future could Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob have “seen”?

⁷ Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob could have visualized a grand future because God had promised that by means of their offspring, all nations of the earth would obtain a blessing. (Gen. 22:18; 26:4; 28:14) The descendants of those patriarchs would become numerous and would reside in the God-given Promised Land. (Gen. 15:5-7) By faith those God-fearing men could “see” their progeny in possession of that land. For that matter, ever since human creation lost perfection, Jehovah has assured his loyal servants that the blessings forfeited by Adam were not gone forever.

8. What helped Abraham to demonstrate outstanding faith?

⁸ It is likely that Abraham’s ability to form a mental picture of what God had promised enabled him to perform outstanding acts of faith. The Scriptures point out that although Abraham and other loyal servants of God “did not receive the fulfillment of the promises” in their lifetime, “they saw them from a distance and welcomed them.” (Read Hebrews 11:8-13.) Abraham had so much evidence to demonstrate the reality of what he hoped for that it was as if he could see what he had not actually beheld!

9. How did having faith in God’s promises benefit Abraham?

⁹ Abraham’s faith in God’s promises strengthened his resolve to do the divine will. Acting in faith, he left the city of Ur and refused to take up permanent residence in any of the cities of Canaan. Like Ur, they had shaky foundations because of their ungodly governments. (Josh. 24:2) For the rest of his long life, Abraham “was awaiting the city having real foundations, whose designer and builder is God.” (Heb. 11:10) Abraham “saw” himself living in a permanent place governed by Jehovah. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and others like them believed in the resurrection of the dead and looked forward to life on earth under God’s Kingdom, “the city having real foundations.” Reflecting on such blessings bolstered their faith in Jehovah.​—Read Hebrews 11:15, 16.

10. How may Sarah’s view of the future have benefited her?

¹⁰ Consider Abraham’s wife, Sarah. When she was 90 years old and childless, her positive view of the future enabled her to act with faith. In effect, she saw her offspring enjoying blessings that Jehovah had promised. (Heb. 11:11, 12) What gave her such expectation? Jehovah had told her husband: “I will bless her and also give you a son by her; I will bless her and she will become nations; kings of peoples will come from her.” (Gen. 17:16) After Sarah gave birth to Isaac, she had good reason to envisage the fulfillment of the rest of God’s promise to Abraham. What a gift we too have of being able to form wholesome mental pictures of things that are promised by God and are sure to happen!

LOOKING INTENTLY AT THE REWARD

11, 12. How did Moses cultivate love for Jehovah?

¹¹ Moses is another person who exercised faith in Jehovah, cultivating deep love for him. While Moses was a young man living as part of the Egyptian royal household, he could easily have developed a love for power and riches. From his natural parents, however, Moses evidently learned about Jehovah and His purpose to free the Hebrews from slavery and give them the Promised Land. (Gen. 13:14, 15; Ex. 2:5-10) If Moses often thought about the blessings ahead for God’s people, what do you think would grow in his heart​—love of prominence or love for Jehovah?

¹² The Scriptures tell us: “By faith Moses, when grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, choosing to be mistreated with the people of God rather than to have the temporary enjoyment of sin, because he considered the reproach of the Christ to be riches greater than the treasures of Egypt, for he looked intently toward the payment of the reward.”​—Heb. 11:24-26.

13. How did Moses benefit by thinking deeply about what God had promised?

¹³ As Moses thought deeply about what Jehovah had promised to do for the Israelites, his faith and his love for God grew. Like other God-fearing humans, he could likely conceive of the time when Jehovah would set mankind free from death. (Job 14:14, 15; Heb. 11:17-19) It is no wonder that Moses was moved to love the God who felt compassion for the Hebrews and for all mankind. Faith and love motivated Moses throughout his life. (Deut. 6:4, 5) Even when Pharaoh threatened Moses with death, his faith, love for God, and likely a mental picture of a bright future strengthened him to face the threat courageously.​—Ex. 10:28, 29.

VISUALIZING KINGDOM REALITIES

14. What type of thinking is really fantasy?

¹⁴ Many people today have unrealistic mental pictures of the future. Although they have little in a material way, for instance, they dream of becoming fabulously rich and of being completely secure, although human life now is “filled with trouble and sorrow.” (Ps. 90:10) They imagine themselves living without anxiety under a human government, whereas the Bible points to God’s Kingdom as mankind’s only true hope. (Dan. 2:44) Many people feel that God will not destroy this wicked system of things, but the Bible paints an entirely different picture. (Zeph. 1:18; 1 John 2:15-17) Such hopes of those who ignore Jehovah’s purpose for the future are mere fantasies.

15. (a) How do Christians benefit from visualizing their hope? (b) Mention something you look forward to as God fulfills his promises.

¹⁵ On the other hand, as Christians we are encouraged by visualizing our hope, whether it is heavenly or earthly. Can you see yourself enjoying the things that God has promised? Contemplating what you may do as God fulfills his promises undoubtedly brings joy to your heart. Perhaps you “see” yourself living on earth forever. Think about cooperating with others in making this globe into a paradise. Your neighbors love Jehovah, even as you do. You are healthy, energetic, and have a bright outlook. Those supervising the work of restoration make life a pleasure because they genuinely care about you. And you are happy using your talents and skills because everything you do is benefiting others and honoring God. For example, you are helping newly resurrected ones to come to know Jehovah. (John 17:3; Acts 24:15) No, this is not a dreamworld. This appealing mental picture is based on Scriptural truths about the future.​—Isa. 11:9; 25:8; 33:24; 35:5-7; 65:22.

WHY TALK ABOUT OUR HOPE?

16, 17. How do we benefit from talking about our hope?

¹⁶ When we talk to other Christians about what we would like to do as Jehovah continues to fulfill his promises, our mental picture of the future becomes more vivid. Even though none of us can be sure of exactly what our individual circumstances will be in the new world, when we talk about the possibilities, we encourage one another and express our faith in the reality of what God has promised. When the apostle Paul visited his brothers in Rome, they surely appreciated the “interchange of encouragement,” and so do we in these troubled times.​—Rom. 1:11, 12.

¹⁷ Visualizing the future can also help us to control negative thoughts about present difficulties. The apostle Peter may have had such concerns when he said to Jesus: “Look! We have left all things and followed you; what, then, will there be for us?” Helping Peter and the others present to imagine the future, Jesus responded: “Truly I say to you, in the re-creation, when the Son of man sits down on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will sit on 12 thrones, judging the 12 tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands for the sake of my name will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit everlasting life.” (Matt. 19:27-29) Peter and the other disciples could thus contemplate their role in the government that would rule over the earth and bring grand blessings to obedient mankind.

18. How does thinking about the fulfillment of God’s promises benefit us today?

¹⁸ Jehovah’s earthly servants have always benefited from thinking about the fulfillment of divine promises. Abel knew enough about God’s purposes to envision a better future, exercise faith, and embrace a reliable hope. Abraham’s outstanding acts of faith were possible because he “saw” something about the fulfillment of God’s prophecy concerning the promised “offspring.” (Gen. 3:15) Moses “looked intently toward the payment of the reward,” acting in faith and growing in love for Jehovah. (Heb. 11:26) Our own faith in God and love for him may well increase as we use our ability to envision the fulfillment of what Jehovah has promised. How we can best use this gift from God will be discussed in the next article.

1. What ability can help us to imitate God’s qualities?

JEHOVAH has given us the ability to put ourselves in the place of others. To some extent, we can conceive of a situation that we have not experienced. (Read Ephesians 5:1, 2.) How can we use this God-given gift wisely? What should we do to prevent it from harming us?

2. How does our distress affect Jehovah?

² Undoubtedly, we rejoice that God has promised immortality in heaven to faithful anointed ones and everlasting life on earth to Jesus’ loyal “other sheep.” (John 10:16; 17:3; 1 Cor. 15:53) Of course, neither immortal life in heaven nor eternal life on earth will be plagued by the suffering common today. Jehovah is aware of the pain we experience, even as he knew how the Israelites suffered as slaves in Egypt. Indeed, “during all their distress it was distressing to him.” (Isa. 63:9) Centuries later, the Jews were afraid because of enemy opposition to the rebuilding of the temple, but God said: “Whoever touches you touches the pupil of my eye.” (Zech. 2:8) Just as a mother has tender feelings for her baby, Jehovah is moved to act lovingly in behalf of his people. (Isa. 49:15) In a sense, Jehovah can put himself in the place of others, and he has given us that ability.​—Ps. 103:13, 14.

HOW JESUS REFLECTED GOD’S LOVE

3. What shows that Jesus was compassionate?

³ Jesus sensed the pain of others, even those whose exact circumstances he had never experienced. For instance, the common people lived in fear of the religious leaders, who deceived them and burdened them with many man-made rules. (Matt. 23:4; Mark 7:1-5; John 7:13) Jesus was never frightened or deceived, but he could understand situations that he had not lived through. Therefore, “on seeing the crowds, he felt pity for them, because they were skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matt. 9:36) Like his Father, Jesus was loving and compassionate.​—Ps. 103:8.

4. How did seeing the suffering of others affect Jesus?

⁴ When Jesus saw people suffering, he was moved to show them love. Thus, he perfectly reflected the love of his Father. After one extensive preaching tour, Jesus and his apostles were about to go to an isolated place to get some rest. Because he felt pity for the crowd awaiting him, however, Jesus took time “to teach them many things.”​—Mark 6:30, 31, 34.

HOW WE CAN IMITATE JEHOVAH’S LOVE

5, 6. To imitate God’s love, how must we treat our neighbor? Illustrate. (See opening image.)

⁵ We can imitate God’s love by the way we treat our neighbor. To illustrate: Suppose a Christian youth, whom we will call Alan, is thinking about an elderly brother whose poor eyesight makes it hard for him to read. He also finds it difficult to walk from house to house in the ministry. Alan remembers Jesus’ words: “Just as you want men to do to you, do the same way to them.” (Luke 6:31) So Alan asks himself, ‘What do I want men to do to me?’ His frank answer is, ‘I want them to play ball with me!’ But the aging brother will not be able to play ball, will he? Jesus’ statement implies that we must ask ourselves, ‘What would I want my neighbor to do to me if I were in his circumstances?’

⁶ Alan is not elderly, but he has the ability to conceive of experiences he has not had. He observes the elderly brother and listens to him with concern. Gradually, Alan understands what it is like to be an older person who finds it hard to read the Bible or walk from house to house. When Alan feels the aging brother’s distress, he sees what help is needed, and he wants to be helpful. We can do the same. To imitate God’s love, we must put ourselves in our brother’s shoes, so to speak.​—1 Cor. 12:26.

7. How can we come to know others well enough to feel their pain?

⁷ It is not always easy to understand the pain that others are experiencing. Many people face difficulties that we have never known. Some are challenged physically because of injury, disease, or aging. Others are coping with emotional trials because of depression, panic attacks, or the aftereffects of abuse. Still others are part of a religiously divided family or a single-parent household. Everyone faces some problem, and often it is one we ourselves have not experienced. In such a case, how can we imitate God’s love? By listening intently until we understand the other person’s feelings, at least to some extent. This will move us to imitate Jehovah’s love by acting according to the need. The need is different with each individual, but we may be able to provide spiritual encouragement and some other practical help.​—Read Romans 12:15; 1 Peter 3:8.

IMITATE JEHOVAH’S KINDNESS

8. What helped Jesus to show kindness?

⁸ God’s Son said: “The Most High . . . is kind toward the unthankful and wicked.” (Luke 6:35) In fact, Jesus imitated God’s kindness. What helped Jesus to do so? He treated people in a kind manner by anticipating how his words and actions might affect another individual’s feelings. For example, a woman known to be a sinner approached him, weeping and wetting his feet with her tears. Jesus discerned that she was repentant, and he knew how heartbroken she would be if he dismissed her unkindly. Instead, he commended and forgave her. When a Pharisee disapproved of what had happened, Jesus spoke to him kindly too.​—Luke 7:36-48.

9. What can help us to imitate God’s kindness? Give an example.

⁹ How can we imitate God’s kindness? The apostle Paul wrote: “A slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be gentle [or, “tactful,” ftn.] toward all.” (2 Tim. 2:24) Tactful people discern how to deal with delicate situations so as to avoid hurting the feelings of others. Think about how we can be kind in the following situations: At work, our supervisor is not doing his job well. How will we react? A brother comes to a meeting for the first time in months. What will we say to him? In the ministry, a householder says, “I’m too busy to talk right now.” Will we be considerate? At home, our spouse asks, “Why didn’t you tell me what you had planned for Saturday?” Will we respond in a kind way? By putting ourselves in the place of others and trying to anticipate how our words might affect them, we can discern how to speak and act in ways that imitate Jehovah’s kindness.​—Read Proverbs 15:28.

IMITATE GOD’S WISDOM

10, 11. What can help us to imitate God’s wisdom? Give an example.

¹⁰ Our being able to conceive of events that we have not lived through can also help us to imitate Jehovah’s wisdom and foresee the probable results of our actions. Wisdom is one of Jehovah’s principal attributes, and if he chooses to do so, he can foresee in detail the results of certain actions. We do not have that degree of foresight, but we do well to think about what could happen as a result of what we are about to do. The Israelites failed to consider the possible consequences of their disobedience to God. Despite all that God had done for them, Moses knew that they would do what was bad in Jehovah’s eyes. In the hearing of the entire congregation of Israel, he recited a song containing these words: “They are a nation devoid of sense, and there is no understanding among them. If only they were wise! They would ponder over this. They would think about their outcome.”​—Deut. 31:29, 30; 32:28, 29.

¹¹ To imitate God’s wisdom, we would do well to think about or even visualize the likely consequences of our actions. If we are courting, for example, we need to recognize the power of sexual attraction. Never would we make plans or do anything that could endanger our precious relationship with Jehovah! Instead, let us act in harmony with these inspired words: “The shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself, but the inexperienced keep right on going and suffer the consequences.”​—Prov. 22:3.

AVOID HARMFUL CONTEMPLATION

12. How could contemplation harm us?

¹² A shrewd person realizes that contemplation can be like a fire. If fire is handled properly, it can be useful, such as when it cooks our food. But fire is deadly when it is uncontrolled and burns down a house and kills its occupants. Similarly, contemplation is useful when it helps us to imitate Jehovah. However, it can be harmful when it feeds immoral desires. For example, if we make it a practice to think about sinful actions, this could lead to our acting out such fantasies. Indeed, indulging in immoral reverie can be spiritually deadly!​—Read James 1:14, 15.

13. What way of life did Eve possibly picture in her mind?

¹³ Consider how the first woman, Eve, developed a desire to eat the forbidden fruit of “the tree of the knowledge of good and bad.” (Gen. 2:16, 17) The serpent told her: “You certainly will not die. For God knows that in the very day you eat from it, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, knowing good and bad.” Eve “saw that the tree was good for food and that it was something desirable to the eyes.” What was the result? “She began taking of its fruit and eating it. Afterward, she also gave some to her husband when he was with her, and he began eating it.” (Gen. 3:1-6) To Eve, there was apparently something attractive in the idea that Satan presented to her. Instead of being told what was good and bad, she would decide this for herself. How harmful such musing proved to be! Through Eve’s sinful husband, Adam, “sin entered into the world and death through sin.”​—Rom. 5:12.

14. How does the Bible help us to avoid misconduct?

¹⁴ Eve’s sin in the garden of Eden did not involve sexual immorality. However, Jesus warned against entertaining mental images of immoral conduct. He said: “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) Moreover, Paul warned: “Do not be planning ahead for the desires of the flesh.”​—Rom. 13:14.

15. What kind of treasures should we store up, and why?

¹⁵ Another dangerous fantasy is to imagine oneself becoming very wealthy while paying little attention to God. Actually, the wealth of a rich person “is like a protective wall in his imagination.” (Prov. 18:11) Jesus related a story to illustrate the sad state of a person “who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:16-21) Jehovah rejoices when we do things that please him. (Prov. 27:11) How happy we are when we have his approval because we have stored up “treasures in heaven”! (Matt. 6:20) And a good relationship with Jehovah is unquestionably the most valuable treasure we can have.

CONTROLLING ANXIOUS THOUGHTS

16. What is one way to control anxiety?

¹⁶ Imagine the extent of our anxiety if we were consumed by efforts to store up “treasures on the earth.” (Matt. 6:19) Jesus used an illustration to show that “the anxiety of this system of things and the deceptive power of riches” can choke the word of the Kingdom. (Matt. 13:18, 19, 22) Whether worrying about money or not, some people constantly imagine all the bad things that can possibly happen. However, uncontrolled anxious thoughts can cause us physical and spiritual harm. Let us trust in Jehovah and remember that “anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good word cheers it up.” (Prov. 12:25) Good words of encouragement from someone who understands us can make our heart rejoice. Confiding in our parents, our spouse, or a trusted friend who views things from God’s standpoint may help to relieve our anxiety.

17. How does Jehovah help us to cope with anxiety?

¹⁷ No one understands our anxiety better than Jehovah does. “Do not be anxious over anything,” wrote Paul, “but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:6, 7) Think about those who are helping to protect us from spiritual harm​—fellow believers, elders, the faithful slave, angels, Jesus, and Jehovah himself.

18. How can contemplation help us?

¹⁸ As we have seen, contemplation can help us to imitate God’s qualities, such as love. (1 Tim. 1:11; 1 John 4:8) We will be happy if we display genuine love, consider the consequences of our actions, and avoid anxiety that would rob us of joy. Let us therefore make good use of our God-given ability to imagine the hope ahead and imitate Jehovah’s love, kindness, wisdom, and happiness.​—Rom. 12:12.

Who is Gog of Magog mentioned in the book of Ezekiel?

For a number of years, our publications have explained that Gog of Magog is the name given to Satan the Devil after his ouster from heaven. This explanation was based on the fact that the book of Revelation identifies Satan the Devil as the leader of the worldwide attack on God’s people. (Rev. 12:1-17) So it was thought that Gog must be another prophetic name for Satan.

However, that explanation raised some important questions. Why so? Consider this: When referring to the time that Gog is defeated, Jehovah says regarding Gog: “I will give you as food to all kinds of birds of prey and the wild beasts of the field.” (Ezek. 39:4) Then Jehovah adds: “On that day I will give Gog a burial place there in Israel . . . That is where they will bury Gog and all his hordes.” (Ezek. 39:11) But how could a spirit creature be eaten by “birds of prey and the wild beasts of the field”? How could Satan be given “a burial place” on earth? The Bible clearly shows that Satan will be abyssed for 1,000 years, not eaten or buried.​—Rev. 20:1, 2.

We are told that at the end of the 1,000 years, Satan will be released from the abyss, and “he will go out to mislead those nations in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together for the war.” (Rev. 20:8) But how can Satan mislead Gog if he himself is Gog? Therefore, “Gog” does not refer to Satan in either Ezekiel’s prophecy or the book of Revelation.

Who, then, is Gog of Magog? To answer that question, we need to search the Scriptures to find out who attacks God’s people. The Bible speaks not only of the attack by ‘Gog of Magog’ but also of the attack by “the king of the north” and of the attack by “the kings of the earth.” (Ezek. 38:2, 10-13; Dan. 11:40, 44, 45; Rev. 17:14; 19:19) Do these represent separate attacks? Not likely. The Bible is no doubt referring to the same attack under different names. Why can we draw that conclusion? Because the Scriptures tell us that all the nations of the earth will be involved in this final attack that prompts the war of Armageddon.​—Rev. 16:14, 16.

When we compare all these Scriptural references about the final attack on God’s people, it becomes evident that the name Gog of Magog refers, not to Satan, but to a coalition of nations. Will this coalition be led by the figurative “king of the north”? We cannot say with any certainty. But this thought does seem to be in harmony with what Jehovah says about Gog: “You will come from your place, from the remotest parts of the north, you and many peoples with you, all of them riding on horses, a great assembly, a vast army.”​—Ezek. 38:6, 15.

Similarly, the prophet Daniel, who was a contemporary of Ezekiel, says of the king of the north: “Reports out of the east and out of the north will disturb him, and he will go out in a great rage to annihilate and to devote many to destruction. And he will plant his royal tents between the grand sea and the holy mountain of Decoration; and he will come all the way to his end, and there will be no helper for him.” (Dan. 11:44, 45) This clearly parallels what the book of Ezekiel says about Gog’s activities.​—Ezek. 38:8-12, 16.

What occurs next as a result of this final attack? Daniel tells us: “During that time Michael [Jesus Christ] will stand up [at Armageddon], the great prince who is standing [since 1914] in behalf of your people. And there will occur a time of distress [the great tribulation] such as has not occurred since there came to be a nation until that time. And during that time your people will escape, everyone who is found written down in the book.” (Dan. 12:1) This action on the part of God’s representative Jesus is also described at Revelation 19:11-21.

But who is referred to as “Gog and Magog” at Revelation 20:8? During the final test at the end of the 1,000 years, those who rebel against Jehovah will manifest the same murderous attitude as ‘Gog of Magog,’ those nations that attack God’s people at the end of the great tribulation. And the outcome for both groups will be exactly the same​—everlasting death! (Rev. 19:20, 21; 20:9) It seems fitting, then, that all those rebels at the end of the Millennium be called “Gog and Magog.”

As keen students of God’s Word, we wait with eager anticipation to see who in the near future will assume the role of “the king of the north.” But no matter who may take the lead in this coalition of nations, we are certain of two things: (1) Gog of Magog and his armies will be defeated and destroyed; and (2) our reigning King, Jesus Christ, will save God’s people and usher them into a new world of peace and true security.​—Rev. 7:14-17.

FEASTING together at Jehovah’s table has always been a theocratic highlight. When God’s people assemble for a spiritual banquet, the sharing of material food often adds to their joy.

In September 1919, the Bible Students held an eight-day convention at Cedar Point, Ohio, U.S.A. Hotels were to provide rooming and meals for the delegates, but thousands more arrived than were expected. Overwhelmed by the throngs, waiters and waitresses quit en masse. The desperate cafeteria manager asked if any young delegates could help, and many willingly responded. Sadie Green was one of them. “It was my first experience as a waitress,” she recalled, “but we had a good time.”

In the years that followed, convention cafeteria arrangements enabled countless happy volunteers to serve their brothers and sisters. Working with fellow believers also helped many young ones to set spiritual goals. Gladys Bolton served in the cafeteria at a 1937 convention. “I met people from other places,” she related, “and heard how they were overcoming their problems. It was then that I first began to have the hope of becoming a pioneer.”

Conventioner Beulah Covey said: “The dedication of the workers makes the whole thing run like clockwork.” The work, though, had its challenges. Only upon arriving at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, in 1969 did Angelo Manera learn that he had been appointed cafeteria servant. He admitted, “I received one of the greatest shocks of my life!” Preparations for that convention included digging a quarter-mile (0.4 km) trench to run a gas line to the kitchen!

In Sierra Leone in 1982, industrious volunteers first had to clear fields and then build the cafeteria using the materials on hand. In Frankfurt, Germany, in 1951, resourceful brothers rented a locomotive that provided steam for 40 cooking kettles. Servers dished out 30,000 meals an hour. To lighten the load for the 576 workers in the dishwashing department, conventioners brought their own knives and forks. In Yangon, Myanmar, thoughtful cooks used fewer fiery chilies than usual in dishes served to international delegates.

“THEY EAT STANDING UP”

Standing in the hot sun in a long cafeteria line at a convention in the United States in 1950 brought Annie Poggensee a blessing. She said: “I became completely engrossed in a heartwarming conversation between two sisters who had come over from Europe by boat.” Each described how Jehovah had helped her to attend. “There was no one there any happier than those two sisters,” stated Annie. “Time waiting in line​—and the heat—​meant nothing to them.”

At many of the large conventions, huge cafeteria tents housed rows of standing-height tables that encouraged diners to finish eating quickly and make room for others. How else could thousands be fed during the lunch period? One person who was not a Witness remarked: “That is a strange religion. They eat standing up.”

Military and civil authorities marveled at the efficiency and organization they saw. After inspecting our cafeteria at Yankee Stadium in New York City, United States Army personnel urged Major Faulkner of the British War Department to make a similar examination. Therefore, he and his wife came to the 1955 “Triumphant Kingdom” Assembly in Twickenham, England. He said he could see that love ran the cafeteria there.

For decades, willing workers lovingly served nutritious, inexpensive meals for the benefit of convention attendees. But this enormous task often required that large numbers of volunteers work long hours and even miss some or all of the program. Convention food arrangements were simplified in many places in the late 1970’s. Then, beginning in 1995, delegates were asked to bring their own food to conventions. This enabled those who had prepared and served food to enjoy the spiritual program and Christian fellowship.a

How Jehovah must cherish those who worked so hard to serve their fellow believers! Some may feel wistful about those joyful days of working in the cafeteria. But one thing is certain: Love is still the main ingredient at our conventions.​—John 13:34, 35.