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Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.

UNITY OF WORSHIP

During the year, the organization made some changes that helped to promote unity of worship among the Bible Students. The Watch Tower began to publish comments explaining the scripture that they considered at their weekly Prayer, Praise, and Testimony Meeting. Additionally, the Bible Students produced a calendar listing the scripture for each week as well as a hymn that could be sung during personal study and family worship.

At their meetings, Bible Students offered “testimonies” that consisted of a field service experience, an expression of thanks to Jehovah, a song, or even a prayer. Eva Barney, who got baptized in 1923 at the age of 15, recalled: “If you wanted to give a testimony, you would stand up and begin saying something such as, ‘I wish to thank the Lord for all his goodness to me.’” Some brothers loved to testify. Sister Barney continued: “Dear old Brother Godwin had so many things to thank the Lord for. But when his wife saw the brother who was presiding getting fidgety, she’d tug her husband’s coattail, and he’d sit down.”

Once a month, each class held a special Prayer, Praise, and Testimony Meeting. Describing this meeting, The Watch Tower of April 1, 1923, stated: “Half of the meeting should be devoted to testimonies relating to the service work and encouraging the workers. . . . We believe that this unity of action will draw the friends closer together.”

Charles Martin, a 19-year-old class worker (congregation publisher) from Vancouver, Canada, benefited greatly from these meetings. He later recalled: “This was where I first learned what to say at the doors. Frequently, someone would relate an experience from the door-to-door work. This gave me ideas about what to say and how to answer various objections.”

UNITED IN WORSHIP

“Service days” also contributed to organizational unity. The April 1, 1923, issue of The Watch Tower announced: “That there may be unity of action . . . , Tuesday, May 1, 1923, is designated as a general service day. Likewise the first Tuesday of each and every month thereafter . . . Every member of every class should have some part in the work.”

Even young Bible Students shared in this work. Hazel Burford, only 16 years old at the time, recalled: “The Bulletin provided canvasses (similar to sample conversations) for us to memorize.a Along with Grandpa, I participated energetically in all these activities.” However, Sister Burford received some opposition from an unlikely source. She reported: “One dear old brother strenuously objected to my talking to the people. At the time, some did not understand that all Bible Students, including ‘young men, and maidens,’ should participate in praising our Grand Creator.” (Ps. 148:12, 13, King James Version) But Sister Burford persisted. She went on to attend the second class of Gilead School and to serve as a missionary in Panama. In time, those brothers adjusted their attitude regarding young ones in the ministry.

UNITED IN ASSEMBLY

Local and regional conventions also unified the brothers. Many of these conventions featured service days, such as the one held in Winnipeg, Canada. On March 31, this convention featured a “Special Bombardment of Winnipeg,” in which all conventioners were invited to take part. Service days like this laid the groundwork for future expansion. On August 5, an estimated 7,000 people attended another convention in Winnipeg. At the time, this was the highest attendance ever for a convention in Canada.

The most significant convention of Jehovah’s people in 1923 was held August 18-26, in Los Angeles, California. In the weeks leading up to the convention, newspapers carried advertisements for the event and Bible Students delivered more than 500,000 handbills. Advertising banners were affixed to streetcars and private vehicles.

On Saturday, August 25, Brother Rutherford delivered the talk “Sheep and Goats,” in which he clearly identified the “sheep” as righteously disposed people who would live on a paradise earth. He also introduced the resolution “A Warning.” This resolution denounced Christendom and urged honesthearted ones to separate themselves from “Babylon the Great.” (Rev. 18:2, 4) Zealous Bible Students earthwide would later unite in distributing millions of copies of this resolution.

On the last day of the convention, an audience of well over 30,000 heard Brother Rutherford deliver the public lecture “All Nations Marching to Armageddon, but Millions Now Living Will Never Die.” Anticipating the huge crowd, the Bible Students hired the newly constructed Los Angeles Coliseum. To ensure that everyone could hear, the brothers used the stadium’s loudspeaker system, which was new technology at the time. Many more heard the program over the radio.

INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION

In the year 1923, there was a notable expansion of the preaching work in Africa, Europe, India, and South America. In India, while caring for his wife and six children, A. J. Joseph cared for literature production in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.

In Sierra Leone, Bible Students Alfred Joseph and Leonard Blackman wrote to world headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, requesting help. On April 14, 1923, their request was answered. “Late one Saturday night,” related Alfred, “I received an unexpected phone call.” He heard a booming voice ask, “Are you the person who wrote to the Watch Tower Society asking for preachers?” “Yes,” Alfred replied. “Well, they’ve sent me.” The voice belonged to William R. Brown. He had arrived that day from the Caribbean with his wife, Antonia, and their young daughters, Louise and Lucy. The brothers would not have to wait long to meet the new arrivals.

Alfred continued, saying: “The very next morning, Leonard and I were holding our weekly Bible study when an imposing figure appeared in the doorway. It was Brother Brown. He was so zealous for the truth that he wanted to give a public lecture the very next day.” In less than a month, Brother Brown placed all the literature he had brought with him. He soon received 5,000 more books, and before long even more books were needed. But Brother Brown was not known as a book salesman. Throughout his long career as a zealous servant of Jehovah, he constantly referred to the Scriptures in his talks, earning him the name Bible Brown.

Meanwhile, the existing branch office in Barmen, Germany, was crowded, and the city faced the imminent threat of invasion from neighboring France. The Bible Students located a building complex in Magdeburg that seemed perfect for their printing operations. On June 19, the brothers finished packing up the printing equipment and other furnishings and moved to the new Bethel in Magdeburg. The very day after world headquarters was notified that the move was complete, newspapers announced that France had taken possession of the city of Barmen. The brothers saw the move as evidence of Jehovah’s blessing and protection.

In Brazil, George Young, who traveled extensively to spread the good news, set up a new branch and began to publish The Watch Tower in Portuguese. Within just a few months, he placed more than 7,000 pieces of literature. His arrival in Brazil also provided Sarah Ferguson with a thrilling opportunity. She had been reading The Watch Tower since 1899, but she had never been able to symbolize her dedication by water baptism. A few months later, Sister Ferguson and her four children were finally able to take this important step.

“REJOICING AS WE GO”

As the year closed, the effect of the Bible Students’ united approach to worship was mentioned in The Watch Tower of December 15, 1923: “It is easy to be seen that the classes . . . are in a good spiritual condition . . . Let us gird on our armor and with renewed zeal and determination press on during the year that is just before us, rejoicing as we go.”

The next year would be a landmark year for the Bible Students. The brothers at Bethel had been working for months on a plot of land in Staten Island, a short trip from their headquarters in Brooklyn. The facilities built on that new site were completed in early 1924, and they helped to unite the brotherhood and spread the good news in ways that were never before possible.

1. Why can it be difficult for us to obey?

DO YOU ever struggle to be obedient? King David did, so he prayed to God: “Stir within me a willingness to obey you.” (Ps. 51:12) David loved Jehovah. Still, David at times struggled to be obedient, and so do we. Why? First, we have inherited a tendency to be disobedient. Second, Satan constantly tries to incite us to rebel, as he did. (2 Cor. 11:3) Third, we are surrounded by this world’s rebellious attitude, “the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” (Eph. 2:2) We must work hard not only to fight our tendency to sin but also to resist the pressure that the Devil and this world put on us to disobey. We must put forth effort to obey Jehovah and those whom he has appointed to a position of authority.

2. What does it mean to be “ready to obey”? (James 3:17)

² Read James 3:17. The inspired writer James said that wise people are “ready to obey.” Think of what that means. We should be eager and willing to obey those whom Jehovah has entrusted with a measure of authority. Of course, Jehovah does not expect us to obey someone who asks us to ignore His commands.​—Acts 4:18-20.

3. Why does it matter to Jehovah that we obey those who have authority over us?

³ We may be more inclined to obey Jehovah than to obey a human. After all, Jehovah always gives perfect direction. (Ps. 19:7) That is hardly the case with humans who have authority. Even so, our heavenly Father has given a measure of authority to parents, government officials, and elders. (Prov. 6:20; 1 Thess. 5:12; 1 Pet. 2:13, 14) When we obey them, we are really obeying Jehovah. Let us consider how we can obey humans whom Jehovah entrusts with authority, even though at times we may find their direction difficult to accept and follow.

OBEY YOUR PARENTS

4. Why do many children disobey their parents?

⁴ Young people are surrounded by peers who tend to be “disobedient to parents.” (2 Tim. 3:1, 2) Why do many of them disobey? Some feel that their parents are hypocritical. The children are expected to do what the parents themselves fail to do. Others view their parents’ advice as outdated, impractical, or overly strict. If you are a young person, do you ever feel that way? Many find it difficult to apply Jehovah’s command: “Be obedient to your parents in union with the Lord, for this is righteous.” (Eph. 6:1) What can help you to do so?

5. Why is it remarkable that Jesus obeyed his parents, as recorded at Luke 2:46-52?

⁵ You can learn obedience from the best example​—Jesus. (1 Pet. 2:21-24) He was a perfect human with imperfect parents. But Jesus honored his parents even when they made mistakes and misunderstood him at times. (Ex. 20:12) Consider what happened when Jesus was 12 years old. (Read Luke 2:46-52.) His parents left him behind in Jerusalem. It was ultimately Joseph and Mary’s responsibility to make sure that all their children were among the group who were traveling home after the festival. When Joseph and Mary finally found Jesus, Mary blamed him for the trouble he had caused them! Jesus could have pointed out how unjust this was. Instead, he gave his parents a simple and respectful reply. Joseph and Mary, however, “did not understand what he was saying to them.” Still, Jesus “continued subject to them.”

6-7. What can help young people to obey their parents?

⁶ Young ones, do you ever find it hard to obey your parents when they make mistakes or when they misunderstand you? What can help? First, think about how Jehovah feels. The Bible says that when you obey your parents, “this is well-pleasing to the Lord.” (Col. 3:20) Jehovah knows when your parents do not fully understand you or when they make rules that are less than perfect. But when you choose to obey them anyway, you make him happy.

⁷ Second, think about how your parents feel. When you obey your parents, you make them happy and earn their trust. (Prov. 23:22-25) You will likely grow closer to them too. “When I started to obey my parents’ requests more often,” says a brother from Belgium named Alexandre, “our relationship changed. It became warmer and happier.”b Third, think about how your being obedient now will help you later. Paulo, who lives in Brazil, says, “Learning to obey my parents has helped me to obey Jehovah and others in authority.” God’s Word gives strong reason to obey your parents. It says: “That it may go well with you and you may remain a long time on the earth.”​—Eph. 6:2, 3.

8. Why do many youths choose to obey their parents?

⁸ Many young people have seen how well things turn out when they obey. Luiza, also from Brazil, found it hard at first to understand why she was not allowed to have a cell phone for a time. After all, she reasoned, most people her age had one. But then she realized that her parents were actually protecting her. She now says, “I see obeying my parents, not as a straitjacket, but as a seat belt that can save my life.” Elizabeth, a young sister from the United States, still struggles to obey her parents at times. She explains, “When I do not fully understand why my parents put a certain rule in place, I think back to the times when their rules protected me.” Monica, who lives in Armenia, says that things have always worked out better for her when she obeyed her parents rather than when she disobeyed them.

OBEY “THE SUPERIOR AUTHORITIES”

9. How do many feel about obeying the law?

⁹ Many people acknowledge that we need the secular governments and that we should obey at least some of the laws set by these “superior authorities.” (Rom. 13:1) But those same people may hesitate to obey a law that seems unfair or appears to require too much. Consider, for example, the paying of taxes. A fourth of those surveyed in one European country believed that “it is right not to pay taxes if you think they are unfair.” Not surprisingly, its citizens pay only about two thirds of the taxes that are due the government.

10. Why do we obey even laws that we do not like?

¹⁰ The Bible acknowledges that human governments cause suffering, are under Satan’s control, and will soon be destroyed. (Ps. 110:5, 6; Eccl. 8:9; Luke 4:5, 6) It also tells us that “whoever opposes the authority has taken a stand against the arrangement of God.” Our relative subjection to the superior authorities is part of Jehovah’s temporary arrangement to maintain order. Therefore, we must “render to all their dues,” including taxes, respect, and obedience. (Rom. 13:1-7) We may view a law as being inconvenient, unfair, or costly to obey. But we obey Jehovah, and he tells us to obey these authorities as long as they do not ask us to break his commands.​—Acts 5:29.

11-12. As related at Luke 2:1-6, what did Joseph and Mary do to obey a law that was inconvenient, and with what results? (See also pictures.)

¹¹ We can learn from the examples of Joseph and Mary, who were ready to obey the superior authorities even when it was inconvenient. (Read Luke 2:1-6.) When Mary was about nine months pregnant, she and Joseph faced a test of obedience. Augustus, who ruled the Roman Empire, called for a census. Joseph and Mary had to travel to Bethlehem, a journey of up to 150 kilometers (93 mi) through hilly country. That trip would be uncomfortable, especially for Mary. The couple may have worried about her safety and that of their unborn baby. What if she were to go into labor while traveling on the road? She was carrying the future Messiah in her womb. Would that excuse them from obeying the government?

¹² Joseph and Mary did not allow any of those concerns to influence whether they would obey the law. Jehovah blessed their obedience. Mary arrived safely in Bethlehem, gave birth to a healthy baby, and even helped to fulfill Bible prophecy!​—Mic. 5:2.

13. How may our obedience affect our brothers?

¹³ When we obey the superior authorities, we benefit ourselves and others. How so? For one thing, we avoid the punishment that comes to those who disobey the law. (Rom. 13:4) Our personal obedience can affect how the authorities view Jehovah’s Witnesses as a whole. For instance, some decades ago in Nigeria, soldiers entered a Kingdom Hall during a congregation meeting, looking for rioters who were protesting the payment of taxes. But the officer in charge told the soldiers to leave, saying: “Jehovah’s Witnesses are not tax agitators.” Every time you obey the law, you could enhance the reputation of Jehovah’s people​—a reputation that may one day help protect your fellow believers.​—Matt. 5:16.

14. What helped one sister to become “ready to obey” the superior authorities?

¹⁴ Still, we may not always feel inclined to obey the superior authorities. “It was extremely hard for me to be obedient,” admits Joanna, a sister in the United States, “because some in my family had suffered injustice at the hands of authorities.” But Joanna made a deliberate effort to change her thinking. First, she stopped reading social media posts that stirred up negative feelings in her toward the authorities. (Prov. 20:3) Second, she prayed for Jehovah’s help to trust in him rather than in a change in human government. (Ps. 9:9, 10) Third, she read articles in our publications about neutrality. (John 17:16) Joanna now says that respecting and obeying the authorities has left her with “a peace beyond words.”

OBEY DIRECTION FROM JEHOVAH’S ORGANIZATION

15. Why might we struggle to obey direction that comes from Jehovah’s organization?

¹⁵ Jehovah asks us to “be obedient to those who are taking the lead” in the congregation. (Heb. 13:17) Although our Leader, Jesus, is perfect, those whom he uses to take the lead here on earth are not. We may struggle to obey them, especially if they ask us to do something that we do not want to do. The apostle Peter once hesitated to obey. When instructed by an angel to eat animals that were unclean under the Mosaic Law, Peter refused​—not once, but three times! (Acts 10:9-16) Why? The new direction did not make sense to him. He was used to a different way of doing things. If Peter found it difficult to obey direction from a perfect angel, how much more so might we find it hard to obey direction from imperfect men!

16. Although the apostle Paul could have considered the direction he received unreasonable, what did he do? (Acts 21:23, 24, 26)

¹⁶ The apostle Paul was “ready to obey” even when he received direction that he might have felt was unreasonable. Jewish Christians had heard rumors about Paul​—rumors that suggested he was preaching “an apostasy from Moses” and disrespecting the Mosaic Law. (Acts 21:21) The Christian older men in Jerusalem directed Paul to take four men to the temple and cleanse himself ceremonially to show that he was observing the Law. But Paul knew that Christians were no longer under the Law. And he had not done anything wrong. Still, Paul did not hesitate. He “took the men the next day and cleansed himself ceremonially along with them.” (Read Acts 21:23, 24, 26.) Paul’s obedience promoted unity.​—Rom. 14:19, 21.

17. What do you learn from Stephanie’s experience?

¹⁷ A sister named Stephanie had a hard time accepting a decision made by responsible brothers in her country. She and her husband were happily serving in a foreign-language group. Then the branch office discontinued the group, and the couple were assigned back to a congregation in their native language. “I was very unhappy,” admits Stephanie. “I wasn’t convinced that there was a greater need in our mother tongue.” Even so, she decided to support the new direction. “In time, I came to see the wisdom of this decision,” she says. “We have become spiritual parents to several in our congregation who do not have family in the truth. I am studying with a newly reactivated sister. And now I have more time for personal study.” She adds, “I have a clear conscience, knowing that I have done my best to be obedient.”

18. How do we benefit from being obedient?

¹⁸ We can learn to obey. Jesus “learned obedience,” not from being in ideal conditions, but “from the things he suffered.” (Heb. 5:8) Like Jesus, we often learn obedience under challenging circumstances. For example, during the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic when we were asked to stop meeting at our Kingdom Halls and to suspend our house-to-house ministry, did you struggle to obey? Yet, your obedience protected you, united you with fellow believers, and pleased Jehovah. All of us are now better prepared to obey any instructions we receive during the great tribulation. Our lives may depend on it!​—Job 36:11.

19. Why do you want to be obedient?

¹⁹ We have learned that obedience brings countless blessings. But we choose to obey Jehovah primarily because we love him and we want to please him. (1 John 5:3) We can never repay Jehovah for all that he has done for us. (Ps. 116:12) But we can obey him and those who have authority over us. If we obey, we show that we are wise. And the wise make Jehovah’s heart rejoice.​—Prov. 27:11.

1. How were God’s worshippers empowered in ancient times?

GOD’S WORD often describes faithful men as powerful. But even the strongest among them did not always feel strong. For example, on some occasions King David felt that he was “as strong as a mountain,” but on other occasions he “became terrified.” (Ps. 30:7) Although Samson was exceptionally powerful when he was moved by God’s spirit, he recognized that without the power that comes from God, he would “grow weak and become like all other men.” (Judg. 14:5, 6; 16:17) These faithful men were strong only because Jehovah gave them power.

2. Why did the apostle Paul say that he was both weak and powerful? (2 Corinthians 12:9, 10)

² The apostle Paul acknowledged that he too needed power from Jehovah. (Read 2 Corinthians 12:9, 10.) Like many of us, Paul contended with health problems. (Gal. 4:13, 14) At times, he also struggled to do the right thing. (Rom. 7:18, 19) And sometimes he felt anxious and uncertain. (2 Cor. 1:8, 9) Yet, when Paul was weak, he became powerful. How? Jehovah gave Paul the power he lacked. He made Paul strong.

3. What questions will we answer in this article?

³ Jehovah promises to make us strong too. (1 Pet. 5:10) But we cannot expect to receive that power without making any effort on our part. To illustrate, an engine can power a car to move forward. However, a driver must press the accelerator in order to go anywhere. Similarly, Jehovah is ready to give us the power we need, but we must take steps to benefit from it. What has Jehovah provided to make us strong? And what do we need to do in order to receive that power? We will learn the answers to those questions by considering how Jehovah strengthened three Bible characters​—the prophet Jonah, Mary the mother of Jesus, and the apostle Paul. We will also see how Jehovah continues to strengthen his servants today in similar ways.

GAIN STRENGTH FROM PRAYER AND STUDY

4. How can we receive power from Jehovah?

⁴ One way that we can receive power from Jehovah is by approaching him in prayer. In response to our prayers, Jehovah can give us “the power beyond what is normal.” (2 Cor. 4:7) We can also be strengthened when we read his Word and reflect on it. (Ps. 86:11) Jehovah’s message to us in the Bible “exerts power.” (Heb. 4:12) When you pray to Jehovah and read his Word, you will receive the strength you need in order to endure, to maintain your joy, or to accomplish a difficult assignment. Note how Jehovah strengthened the prophet Jonah.

5. Why did the prophet Jonah need strength?

⁵ The prophet Jonah needed strength. He had run away from a challenging assignment that Jehovah had given him. As a result, he almost lost his life in a violent storm and he put the lives of his shipmates in jeopardy. When he was thrown overboard, he found himself in a place he had never been before​—the dark belly of a great fish. How do you think Jonah felt? Did he expect to die there? Might he have wondered whether Jehovah had rejected him? Jonah must have felt very anxious.

6. Based on Jonah 2:1, 2, 7, what strengthened Jonah while he was in the belly of the fish?

⁶ What did Jonah do to receive strength in that lonely, isolated place? For one, he prayed. (Read Jonah 2:1, 2, 7.) Although he had disobeyed Jehovah, Jonah was confident that Jehovah would listen to his humble and repentant prayer. Jonah also reflected on the Scriptures. Why can we say that? His prayer, recorded in Jonah chapter 2, uses many of the same words and phrases that are found in the Psalms. (For example, compare Jonah 2:2, 5 with Psalm 69:1; 86:7.) It is clear that Jonah knew those passages well. And by reflecting on them during his ordeal, he felt reassured that Jehovah would help him. Later, Jonah was returned to dry land, and he was ready to accept and fulfill his next assignment.​—Jonah 2:10–3:4.

7-8. How has one brother in Taiwan received power during his trials?

⁷ Jonah’s example can help us when we are going through various trials. For example, Zhiming,b a brother in Taiwan, suffers from serious health problems. In addition, he has to endure violent family opposition because of his faith in Jehovah. He gets strength from Jehovah through prayer and study. “Sometimes, when problems arise,” he admits, “I feel so anxious that I can’t calm down enough to do my personal study.” But he does not give up. “First, I pray to Jehovah,” he says. “Next, I put on my earphones and listen to our Kingdom songs. At times, I even sing them in a low voice until I calm down. Then I begin studying.”

⁸ Personal study has strengthened Zhiming in unexpected ways. For example, while he was recovering from a major operation, a nurse told him that because of his low red blood cell count, he would need a blood transfusion. The night before his operation, Zhiming read about a sister who had the same operation. Her red blood cell count had dropped even lower than his; yet, she did not accept a blood transfusion and was able to recover. That experience strengthened Zhiming to remain faithful.

9. If a trial has weakened you, what can you do? (See also pictures.)

⁹ During a trial, do you ever feel too anxious to express yourself clearly in prayer? Or do you feel too weak to study? Remember that Jehovah understands your situation perfectly. So even when you offer a simple prayer, you can be sure that he will give you exactly what you need. (Eph. 3:20) If your physical or emotional pain makes it difficult for you to read and study, you might try listening to audio recordings of the Bible or of Bible-based publications. You may also find it helpful to listen to one of our songs or to watch a video on jw.org. By praying to Jehovah and by looking for the answer in the spiritual provisions that he makes available, you invite him to make you strong.

ACQUIRE STRENGTH FROM FELLOW WORSHIPPERS

10. How do our Christian brothers and sisters strengthen us?

¹⁰ Jehovah can use our Christian brothers and sisters to strengthen us. They can be “a source of great comfort” when we face a trial or struggle to fulfill a difficult assignment. (Col. 4:10, 11) We especially need friends during “times of distress.” (Prov. 17:17) When we feel weak, our fellow worshippers can help us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Consider how Mary, the mother of Jesus, received strength from others.

11. Why did Mary need strength?

¹¹ Mary needed strength. Think how overwhelmed she must have felt after receiving a weighty assignment from the angel Gabriel. She was not married; yet, she was to become pregnant. She had no experience raising children of her own, but she was to care for the boy who would become the Messiah. And since she had never had sexual relations, how would Mary explain all of this to her fiancé, Joseph?​—Luke 1:26-33.

12. According to Luke 1:39-45, how did Mary receive the strength she needed?

¹² How did Mary receive the strength she needed to fulfill this unusual and weighty assignment? She sought help from others. For example, she asked Gabriel to provide further information concerning the assignment. (Luke 1:34) Shortly thereafter, she traveled all the way to “the mountainous country” of Judah to visit her relative Elizabeth. That visit paid off. Elizabeth commended Mary and was inspired by Jehovah to share an encouraging prophecy about Mary’s unborn son. (Read Luke 1:39-45.) Mary said that Jehovah had “acted mightily with his arm.” (Luke 1:46-51) Through Gabriel and Elizabeth, Jehovah strengthened Mary.

13. How was a sister in Bolivia rewarded for reaching out to fellow worshippers?

¹³ Like Mary, you too can gain strength from fellow worshippers. Dasuri, a sister in Bolivia, needed such strength. When her father was diagnosed with a terminal illness and hospitalized, Dasuri willingly took on the responsibility of caring for him. (1 Tim. 5:4) That was not always easy. She admits, “Many times I felt as if I could not continue.” Did she ask for help? Not at first. “I did not want to bother the brothers,” she explains. “I reasoned, ‘It is Jehovah who will give me the help I need.’ But then I realized that by isolating myself from others, I was trying to tackle my problems alone.” (Prov. 18:1) Dasuri decided to write to a few of her friends and explain her situation. “Words cannot describe how much I was strengthened by my dear fellow Christians,” she says. “They brought food to the hospital and shared comforting Bible verses with me. What a wonderful feeling it is to know that we are not alone. We belong to Jehovah’s large family​—a family that is willing to give you a hand, cry with you, and fight together with you.”

14. Why should we accept help from the elders?

¹⁴ One way that Jehovah supplies power to us is through the elders. They are gifts that he uses to strengthen and refresh us. (Isa. 32:1, 2) So when you feel anxious, share your concerns with the elders. When they offer you help, accept it gratefully. By means of them, Jehovah can make you strong.

DERIVE STRENGTH FROM YOUR HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

15. What hope do all Christians treasure?

¹⁵ Our Bible-based hope can fill us with power. (Rom. 4:3, 18-20) As Christians, we have the priceless prospect of living forever​—either in a restored earthly paradise or in the heavenly Kingdom. Our hope strengthens us to endure trials, preach the good news, and carry out various assignments in the congregation. (1 Thess. 1:3) That same hope strengthened the apostle Paul.

16. Why did the apostle Paul need strength?

¹⁶ Paul needed strength. In his letter to the Corinthians, he compared himself to a fragile earthen vessel. He was “hard-pressed,” “perplexed,” “persecuted,” and “knocked down.” His life was even in danger. (2 Cor. 4:8-10) Paul wrote those words during his third missionary tour. He may not have known it at the time, but his troubles were not over. He would face mob violence, arrest, shipwreck, and imprisonment.

17. In line with 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, what strengthened Paul to endure trials?

¹⁷ Paul gained the strength to endure by focusing on his hope. (Read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.) He told the Corinthians that even if his physical body was “wasting away,” he would not let that discourage him. Paul focused on his future. His hope of eternal life in heaven was “of more and more surpassing greatness,” worth any tribulation he had experienced. Paul meditated on that hope, and as a result, he felt “renewed from day to day.”

18. How has hope strengthened Tihomir and his family?

¹⁸ Tihomir, a brother in Bulgaria, finds strength in his hope. A few years ago, his younger brother, Zdravko, died in an accident. For some time thereafter, Tihomir struggled with intense grief. To cope, he and his family have imagined what the resurrection will be like. He explains: “For instance, we discuss where we will meet Zdravko, what food we will make for him, who will be invited to the first party when he returns, and what we will tell him about the last days.” Tihomir says that focusing on their hope strengthens his family to keep enduring and to keep waiting for Jehovah’s time to resurrect his brother.

19. What can you do to strengthen your hope? (See also picture.)

¹⁹ How can you strengthen your hope? If, for example, you have the hope to live forever on earth, read about the Bible’s description of the Paradise and meditate on it. (Isa. 25:8; 32:16-18) Reflect on what life will be like in the new world. Imagine yourself there. Whom do you see? What sounds do you hear? How do you feel? To spark your imagination, look at artwork in our publications that depicts Paradise or watch a music video, such as The New World to Come, Just Around the Corner, or Imagine the Time. If we keep the hope of the new world firmly in mind, our problems will be “momentary and light.” (2 Cor. 4:17) Through the hope Jehovah has given you, he will make you strong.

20. Even when we feel weak, how can we gain power?

²⁰ Even when we feel weak, “by God we will gain power.” (Ps. 108:13) Jehovah has already provided what you need to receive strength from him. So when you need help to fulfill an assignment, to endure a trial, or to maintain your joy, approach Jehovah in earnest prayer and seek his guidance through personal study. Accept encouragement from your Christian brothers and sisters. Keep your hope clear and bright. Then you will be “strengthened with all power according to [God’s] glorious might so that you may endure fully with patience and joy.”​—Col. 1:11.

1-2. What is the best way to read and study the Bible? Illustrate.

IMAGINE that you are deciding whether to buy a house. What would you want to see before you make your decision? Just a photo of the front of the house? No doubt you would want to see the house in person so that you can walk around it, go inside to inspect all the rooms, and see it in all its dimensions. You might even like to examine the plans of the house to find out how it was built. Obviously, you would want to see your future home in all its aspects.

² We can do something similar when we read and study the Bible. One commentary likens the Bible’s message to “a vastly spacious building, with its high towers and deep foundations.” So, then, how can we get familiar with all that is in the Bible? If you just read it quickly, you may learn only basic facts​—“the elementary things of the sacred pronouncements of God.” (Heb. 5:12) Instead, as with the house, go “inside” to examine the rich details. An excellent way to study the Bible is to see how the various parts of its message connect together. Endeavor to understand not only what truths you believe but also why you believe them.

3. What did the apostle Paul urge his fellow Christians to do, and why? (Ephesians 3:14-19)

³ To understand God’s Word fully in all its dimensions, we must learn deep Bible truths. The apostle Paul urged his Christian brothers and sisters to study God’s Word diligently so that they could “comprehend fully what is the breadth and length and height and depth” of the truth. Then they would become further “rooted and established” in their faith. (Read Ephesians 3:14-19.) We need to do the same. Let us see how we can explore God’s Word to get a fuller picture of its rich meaning.

EXPLORE DEEP BIBLE TRUTHS

4. What can we do to draw closer to Jehovah? Give examples.

⁴ As Christians, we are not content with having only a superficial understanding of the Bible. With the help of God’s holy spirit, we are eager to learn “even the deep things of God.” (1 Cor. 2:9, 10) Why not start a personal study project that will draw you closer to Jehovah? For example, you could explore how he demonstrated his love for his ancient servants and how that proves that he loves you too. You might examine Jehovah’s arrangement for worship in Israel and how that compares with the Christian arrangement today. Or perhaps you could make an in-depth study of the prophecies that Jesus fulfilled during his life and ministry on earth.

5. Is there a subject that you would like to research as a personal study project?

⁵ Some diligent students of the Bible were asked what deeper things they personally would like to examine in God’s Word. Some of their responses are listed in the box “Subjects for Personal Study Projects.” You can find a lot of joy in studying such subjects with the help of the Watch Tower Publications Index or the Research Guide for Jehovah’s Witnesses. Doing deep Bible study can strengthen your faith and help you “find the knowledge of God.” (Prov. 2:4, 5) Let us now focus on some deep Bible truths that we can explore.

PONDER GOD’S PURPOSE

6. (a) What is the difference between a plan and a purpose? (b) Why can it be said that Jehovah’s purpose for man and the earth is “eternal”? (Ephesians 3:11)

⁶ Consider for example what the Bible says about God’s purpose. There is a distinct difference between a plan and a purpose. A plan is like a specific and fixed route that can lead you to your chosen destination. However, the plan can fail when a roadblock appears along the route. A purpose focuses on the destination itself. We know exactly where we want to complete our journey, but the route is not set. It can be adjusted as needed. Thankfully, Jehovah has progressively revealed his “eternal purpose” in the Bible. (See study note on Ephesians 3:11.) One way or another, he always succeeds because he “has made everything work for his purpose.” (Prov. 16:4) And the results of what Jehovah does will endure forever. What is Jehovah’s purpose, and what adjustments has he made in order to accomplish it?

7. After the first humans rebelled, how did Jehovah adjust the way he would achieve his purpose? (Matthew 25:34)

⁷ God told the first humans what his purpose was for them. They were to “be fruitful and become many, fill the earth and subdue it, and have in subjection . . . every living creature” on earth. (Gen. 1:28) When Adam and Eve rebelled, causing sin to enter the human family, Jehovah’s purpose was not thwarted. He adjusted the way it would be achieved. Immediately, he determined to set up a Kingdom in heaven that would accomplish his original purpose for mankind and the earth. (Read Matthew 25:34.) At his due time, Jehovah lovingly sent his firstborn Son to the earth to teach people about the Kingdom and to give his life to ransom us from sin and death. Then Jesus was resurrected back to heaven to rule as King of God’s Kingdom. But there is more to ponder about God’s purpose.

8. (a) What is the theme of the Bible? (b) As explained at Ephesians 1:8-11, what is Jehovah’s ultimate purpose? (See cover picture.)

⁸ The main theme of the Bible is that Jehovah’s name will be vindicated as he fulfills his purpose for the earth by means of his Kingdom under Christ. Jehovah’s purpose cannot be changed. He has guaranteed that he will carry it out with success. (Isa. 46:10, 11, ftns.; Heb. 6:17, 18) In time, the earth will be transformed into a paradise where perfect, righteous descendants of Adam and Eve will “enjoy life forever.” (Ps. 22:26) More than that, Jehovah has an even broader purpose in mind. His ultimate purpose is to unite all his intelligent creatures in heaven and on earth. Then all those living will loyally submit to him as their Sovereign. (Read Ephesians 1:8-11.) Are you not amazed at the beautiful way that Jehovah accomplishes his purpose?

CONTEMPLATE YOUR FUTURE

9. By reading the Bible, how far into the future can we see?

⁹ Consider the prophecy that Jehovah stated in the garden of Eden, as recorded at Genesis 3:15.b It pointed to events that would fulfill his purpose but would not occur until thousands of years later. These events included producing Abraham’s offspring, the lineage that would lead to the birth of the Christ. (Gen. 22:15-18) Then, in 33 C.E., Jesus was struck in the heel, as foretold. (Acts 3:13-15) The final event of that prophecy, the crushing of Satan’s head, is still over 1,000 years away. (Rev. 20:7-10) And the Bible reveals much more about what will occur as the enmity between Satan’s system and Jehovah’s organization comes to a climax.

10. (a) What future events are coming soon? (b) How can we prepare our mind and heart? (See footnote.)

¹⁰ Think about these earthshaking events that the Bible foretells. First, the nations will proclaim “peace and security!” (1 Thess. 5:2, 3) “Instantly,” the great tribulation will begin when the nations attack all false religion. (Rev. 17:16) After that, there may be a supernatural display of “the Son of man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.” (Matt. 24:30) Jesus will pronounce judgment on humankind, separating the sheep from the goats. (Matt. 25:31-33, 46) Satan, though, will not be idle. In his hatred, he will incite a coalition of nations that the Bible calls Gog of the land of Magog to attack Jehovah’s pure worshippers. (Ezek. 38:2, 10, 11) At some point, the anointed remnant will be gathered to heaven to join Christ and his heavenly forces to fight the war of Armageddon, the finale of the great tribulation.c (Matt. 24:31; Rev. 16:14, 16) Then Christ’s Thousand Year Reign over the earth will begin.​—Rev. 20:6.

11. What does the prospect of eternal life mean for you? (See also picture.)

¹¹ Now take a long-range view of the future. The Bible says that our Creator “has even put eternity in [our] heart.” (Eccl. 3:11) Think what that means for you and your relationship with Jehovah. The book Draw Close to Jehovah, page 319, piques our interest by stating: “After having lived for hundreds, thousands, millions, even billions of years, we will know far more about Jehovah God than we do now. But we will still feel that there are countless wonderful things to be learned. . . . Eternal life will be unimaginably rich and varied​—and drawing closer to Jehovah will always be the most rewarding part of it.” Meanwhile, as we continue studying God’s Word, what else can we explore?

GAZE HIGH INTO THE HEAVENS

12. How can we gaze high into the heavens? Give an example.

¹² God’s Word gives us a glimpse of Jehovah’s presence “in the heights above.” (Isa. 33:5) The Bible reveals amazing things about Jehovah and the heavenly part of his organization. (Isa. 6:1-4; Dan. 7:9, 10; Rev. 4:1-6) For example, we can read about the awe-inspiring things that Ezekiel saw when “the heavens were opened and [he] began to see visions of God.”​—Ezek. 1:1.

13. What do you appreciate about Jesus’ role in the heavens, as explained at Hebrews 4:14-16?

¹³ Think also about Jesus’ role in the heavens as our reigning King and sympathetic High Priest. Through him we can approach God’s “throne of undeserved kindness” in prayer and ask for mercy and help “at the right time.” (Read Hebrews 4:14-16.) May we never let a day pass without reflecting on what Jehovah and Jesus have done and are doing for us from the heavens. Their love for us should touch our heart deeply and compel us to be zealous in our service and worship.​—2 Cor. 5:14, 15.

14. What is one of the best things we can do to show how much we appreciate Jehovah and Jesus? (See also pictures.)

¹⁴ One of the best ways to show how much we appreciate our God and his Son is to endeavor to help others become Witnesses of Jehovah and disciples of Jesus. (Matt. 28:19, 20) This is what the apostle Paul did out of gratitude for God and Christ. He knew that Jehovah’s will is that “all sorts of people should be saved and come to an accurate knowledge of truth.” (1 Tim. 2:3, 4) He worked very hard in his ministry to help as many people as he could so that he might “by all possible means save some.”​—1 Cor. 9:22, 23.

FIND DELIGHT IN EXPLORING GOD’S WORD

15. According to Psalm 1:2, what will make us happy?

¹⁵ Appropriately, the psalmist described a happy, successful person as someone whose “delight is in the law of Jehovah” and who “meditates on His law day and night.” (Ps. 1:1-3; ftn.) Commenting on this scripture in his book Studies in the Psalms, Bible translator Joseph Rotherham said that a person should “take so much pleasure in divine guidance that he will look out for it, learn it, linger over it.” He added that a Bible reader could “count every day lost in which he does not gain clearer insight into its wisdom.” You can find delight in studying the Bible by taking in all that you can of its rich details and seeing how it all connects together. What a joy it is to explore every dimension of God’s Word!

16. What will we discuss in the next article?

¹⁶ The beautiful truths that Jehovah teaches us in his Word are not beyond our grasp. In the next article, we will consider one of the deeper truths​—Jehovah’s great spiritual temple, which Paul described in his letter to the Hebrew Christians. May exploring that subject bring you great delight.

1. What is an angel saying, and what does that mean for us?

IF AN angel were to speak to you, would you listen to what he had to say? Well, today, an angel is speaking “to every nation and tribe and tongue and people.” What is he saying? “Fear God and give him glory . . . Worship the One who made the heaven and the earth.” (Rev. 14:6, 7) Jehovah is the only true God whom everyone should worship. How thankful we can be that he has given us the precious opportunity to worship him in his great spiritual temple!

2. What is Jehovah’s spiritual temple? (See also the box “What It Is Not.”)

² What exactly is the spiritual temple, and where can we find the details that explain it? The spiritual temple is not a literal building. It is Jehovah’s arrangement for offering acceptable worship based on Jesus’ ransom sacrifice. The apostle Paul explained this arrangement in the letter that he wrote to the first-century Hebrew Christians living in Judea.b

3-4. What concerns did Paul have about the Hebrew Christians in Judea, and how did he help them?

³ Why did Paul write his letter to the Hebrew Christians in Judea? Likely, for two main reasons. First, to give them encouragement. Most of them had been raised in the Jewish religion. Their former religious leaders may have ridiculed them for becoming Christians. Why? Because Christians had no impressive temple to go to for worship, no physical altar on which to make sacrifices to God, and no priests to minister to them. This could have discouraged Christ’s disciples and caused their faith to weaken. (Heb. 2:1; 3:12, 14) Some of them might even have been tempted to go back to Judaism.

⁴ Second, Paul pointed out to those Hebrew Christians that they were not making the effort to understand new or deep spiritual teachings, the “solid food” found in God’s Word. (Heb. 5:11-14) Evidently, some of them were still holding on to the Mosaic Law. Paul explained, though, that the sacrifices the Law required could not fully remove sin. For that reason, the Law had been “set aside.” So Paul went on to teach some deeper truths. He reminded his fellow Christians of “a better hope” based on Jesus’ sacrifice that could truly help them draw “near to God.”​—Heb. 7:18, 19.

5. What do we need to understand from the Bible book of Hebrews, and why?

⁵ Paul explained to his Hebrew brothers why their Christian worship was far superior to the worship they offered in the past. The features of the Jewish religion were only “a shadow of the things to come, but the reality belongs to the Christ.” (Col. 2:17) The shadow that an object casts is only a general shape of the real thing that casts the shadow. So, too, the ancient Jewish pattern of worship was just a shadow of the reality that was to come. We need to understand the arrangement Jehovah has put in place for us to have our sins forgiven so that we can offer acceptable worship. Let us compare the “shadow” (the ancient Jewish pattern) with “the reality” (the Christian way of worship), as explained in Hebrews. By doing so, we can better understand the spiritual temple and how it involves us.

THE TABERNACLE

6. How was the tabernacle used?

⁶ The ancient pattern. Paul based his discussion on the tabernacle that was set up by Moses in 1512 B.C.E. (See the chart “The Ancient Pattern​—The Christian Reality.”) The tabernacle was a tentlike structure that the Israelites initially carried with them as they moved from place to place. They used it for nearly 500 years until a permanent temple was built in Jerusalem. (Ex. 25:8, 9; Num. 9:22) This “tent of meeting” was the central place for the Israelites to approach God and offer their sacrifices and their worship. (Ex. 29:43-46) However, the tabernacle also represented something much greater that was to come for Christians.

7. When did the spiritual temple become a reality?

⁷ The Christian reality. The ancient tabernacle was “a shadow of the heavenly things,” and it pictured Jehovah’s great spiritual temple. Paul said that “this tent [or, tabernacle] is an illustration for the present time.” (Heb. 8:5; 9:9) So by the time he wrote to the Hebrews, the spiritual temple had already become a reality for Christians. It came into existence in 29 C.E. That year, Jesus got baptized, was anointed with holy spirit, and began serving as Jehovah’s “great high priest” in the spiritual temple.c​—Heb. 4:14; Acts 10:37, 38.

THE HIGH PRIEST

8-9. According to Hebrews 7:23-27, what sharp contrast is there between Israel’s high priests and the great High Priest, Jesus Christ?

⁸ The ancient pattern. The high priest was authorized to represent the people before God. Israel’s first high priest, Aaron, was appointed by Jehovah when the tabernacle was inaugurated. However, as Paul explained, “many had to become priests in succession because death prevented them from continuing as such.”d (Read Hebrews 7:23-27.) And as imperfect men, those high priests had to offer sacrifices for their own sins. Herein lies a sharp contrast between Israel’s high priests and the great High Priest, Jesus Christ.

⁹ The Christian reality. As our High Priest, Jesus Christ is “a minister . . . of the true tent, which Jehovah set up, and not man.” (Heb. 8:1, 2) Paul explained that “because [Jesus] continues alive forever, his priesthood has no successors.” Paul added that Jesus is “undefiled, separated from the sinners” and that unlike the high priests of Israel, “he does not need to offer up sacrifices daily” for his own sins. Now consider the differences between the altars and the sacrifices in the ancient pattern and those in the Christian reality.

THE ALTARS AND THE SACRIFICES

10. What did the sacrifices on the copper altar point to?

¹⁰ The ancient pattern. Outside the entrance of the tabernacle was a copper altar on which animal sacrifices were offered to Jehovah. (Ex. 27:1, 2; 40:29) However, those sacrifices could not provide complete forgiveness of sins for the people. (Heb. 10:1-4) The continual sacrifices of animals at the tabernacle pointed to the one sacrifice that would fully redeem humankind.

11. On what altar did Jesus offer himself as a sacrifice? (Hebrews 10:5-7, 10)

¹¹ The Christian reality. Jesus knew that Jehovah had sent him to the earth to offer his human life as a ransom sacrifice for mankind. (Matt. 20:28) Hence, at his baptism, Jesus presented himself to do what Jehovah wanted. (John 6:38; Gal. 1:4) Jesus offered himself on a figurative altar that represented God’s “will” for his Son to sacrifice his perfect human life. Jesus’ life was offered “once for all time” to atone for, or cover permanently, the sins of everyone who exercises faith in Christ. (Read Hebrews 10:5-7, 10.) Next, examine the significance of the interior features of the tabernacle.

THE HOLY AND THE MOST HOLY

12. Who could enter each room of the tabernacle?

¹² The ancient pattern. The tabernacle and the temples that were built later in Jerusalem had the same basic layout. Inside were two compartments​—“the Holy Place” and “the Most Holy”—​that were separated by an embroidered curtain. (Heb. 9:2-5; Ex. 26:31-33) Inside the Holy was a golden lampstand, an altar for burning incense, and a table of showbread. Only “the anointed priests” were allowed inside the Holy to perform their sacred duties. (Num. 3:3, 7, 10) The Most Holy contained the golden ark of the covenant that represented Jehovah’s presence. (Ex. 25:21, 22) Only the high priest was allowed to pass beyond the curtain into the Most Holy on the annual Day of Atonement. (Lev. 16:2, 17) Year after year, he entered with the blood of animals to make atonement for his own sins and for those of the entire nation. Eventually, Jehovah, by means of his holy spirit, made clear the real significance of these features of the tabernacle.​—Heb. 9:6-8.e

13. What do the Holy and the Most Holy of the tabernacle represent in the Christian reality?

¹³ The Christian reality. A limited number of Christ’s disciples have been anointed with holy spirit, and they enjoy a special relationship with Jehovah. These 144,000 are to serve as priests in the heavens with Jesus. (Rev. 1:6; 14:1) The Holy of the tabernacle represents their spirit-begotten condition while on earth as sons of God. (Rom. 8:15-17) The Most Holy of the tabernacle represents heaven, where Jehovah dwells. “The curtain” that separated the Holy from the Most Holy represents Jesus’ fleshly body that was a barrier to his entering heaven as the great High Priest of the spiritual temple. By giving up his human body as a sacrifice for mankind, Jesus opened up the way to heavenly life for all anointed Christians. They must also give up their fleshly body to receive their heavenly reward. (Heb. 10:19, 20; 1 Cor. 15:50) After Jesus was resurrected, he entered the Most Holy of the spiritual temple, where all the anointed eventually join him.

14. According to Hebrews 9:12, 24-26, what makes Jehovah’s spiritual temple arrangement superior?

¹⁴ Here we can clearly see the superiority of Jehovah’s arrangement for pure worship based on the ransom sacrifice and the priesthood of Jesus Christ. The high priest in Israel entered a man-made Most Holy with the blood of animal sacrifices, but Jesus entered “into heaven itself,” the holiest place of all, to appear before Jehovah. There he presented the value of his perfect human life in our behalf “to do away with sin through the sacrifice of himself.” (Read Hebrews 9:12, 24-26.) Jesus’ sacrifice is the ultimate sacrifice that wipes sin out forever. As we will next learn, whether our hope is heavenly or earthly, we all can worship Jehovah in his spiritual temple.

THE COURTYARDS

15. Who served in the courtyard of the tabernacle?

¹⁵ The ancient pattern. The tabernacle had one courtyard​—a fenced, open area where the priests performed their duties. The large copper altar of burnt offering was located in the courtyard, along with a copper basin of water that the priests used to cleanse themselves before performing their sacred service. (Ex. 30:17-20; 40:6-8) The temples that were built later, however, also had an outer courtyard where those who were not priests could stand and worship God.

16. Who serve in each of the courtyards of the spiritual temple?

¹⁶ The Christian reality. Before moving on to serve as priests with Jesus in heaven, the remnant of his anointed brothers faithfully serve in the earthly inner courtyard of the spiritual temple. The presence of the large basin of water is an important reminder for them, as it is for all Christians, to remain morally and spiritually clean. Where, then, do the “great crowd,” who loyally support Christ’s anointed brothers, offer their worship? The apostle John saw them “standing before the throne,” in what corresponds on earth to the outer courtyard, where “they are rendering [God] sacred service day and night in his temple.” (Rev. 7:9, 13-15) How we cherish having a place in Jehovah’s arrangement for pure worship!

OUR PRIVILEGE TO WORSHIP JEHOVAH

17. What sacrifices are we privileged to offer to Jehovah?

¹⁷ Today all Christians have the privilege of offering sacrifices to Jehovah by using their time, energy, and resources to further the interests of God’s Kingdom. As the apostle told the Hebrew Christians, we can “always offer to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of our lips that make public declaration to his name.” (Heb. 13:15) We can show that we cherish our privilege to worship Jehovah by offering him our very best sacrifices.

18. According to Hebrews 10:22-25, what should we never neglect and what should we never forget?

¹⁸ Read Hebrews 10:22-25. Toward the conclusion of his letter to the Hebrews, Paul outlines various aspects of our worship that we should never neglect. These include approaching Jehovah in prayer, making public declaration of our hope, meeting together as a congregation, and encouraging one another “all the more so as [we] see [Jehovah’s] day drawing near.” Toward the end of the Revelation account, Jehovah’s angel states the following twice for emphasis: “Worship God!” (Rev. 19:10; 22:9) May we never forget this deep spiritual truth regarding Jehovah’s great spiritual temple and the cherished privilege we have to worship our great God!

Did the Israelites have anything to eat in the wilderness besides manna and quail?

Manna was the Israelites’ main food during their 40 years in the wilderness. (Ex. 16:35) Jehovah also provided quail on two occasions. (Ex. 16:12, 13; Num. 11:31) However, the Israelites did have a limited amount of other foods to eat.

For example, Jehovah sometimes led his people to “a resting-place” that provided some natural supplies to help fill their needs. (Num. 10:33) One of those places was the oasis at Elim, “where there were 12 springs of water and 70 palm trees”​—no doubt date palms. (Ex. 15:27) The book Plants of the Bible states that the date palm, which “has a very extensive geographic range, . . . is the chief food plant of the desert, furnishing food, oil, and shelter to millions of people.”

The Israelites may also have stopped at the major oasis known today as Feiran, which is part of the Wadi Feiran.a This wadi, or river valley, “is 81 miles [130 km] long and is one of the longest, most beautiful, and most famous wadis in Sinai,” says the book Discovering the World of the Bible. It continues, stating: “In the wadi, about 28 miles [45 km] from its mouth, is the 3-mile-long [4.8 km], beautiful, palm-laden Feiran Oasis, about 2,000 feet [610 m] above sea level. It is the Eden of Sinai. Thousands of date palms have attracted settlers to this site since ancient times.”

When leaving Egypt, the Israelites brought along flour dough, kneading troughs, and possibly some grain and oil. Of course, these things would not have lasted long. The people also brought “flocks and herds, a great number of livestock.” (Ex. 12:34-39) Because of the harsh conditions in the wilderness, however, the number of animals would likely have dwindled. Some of them may have served as food for the Israelites. Other animals may have been offered in sacrifice, even to false gods.b (Acts 7:39-43) Still, the Israelites did breed some animals, as noted in Jehovah’s words to the people in response to their gross lack of faith: “Your sons will become shepherds in the wilderness 40 years.” (Num. 14:33) It is possible, therefore, that their flocks provided milk and on occasion meat but certainly not enough to sustain an estimated three million people for 40 years.c

Where did the animals find food and water?d Back then there may have been a greater amount of rainfall and thus more vegetation in the wilderness. Insight on the Scriptures, Volume 1, states that 3,500 years ago, “the water supply in Arabia was to some extent superior to what it is at the present time. The existence of many deep dry wadis, or valleys, which were once riverbeds, gives evidence that at some time in the past there was sufficient rainfall to produce streams of water.” Even so, the wilderness was a barren and fearsome place. (Deut. 8:14-16) Without the water that Jehovah miraculously provided, both the Israelites and their animals would surely have perished.​—Ex. 15:22-25; 17:1-6; Num. 20:2, 11.

Moses told the Israelites that Jehovah had fed them with the manna “in order to make [them] know that man does not live by bread alone but man lives by every expression from Jehovah’s mouth.”​—Deut. 8:3.

How to Keep Up With Adjustments to Our Understanding

What a privilege it is to live at a time when Jehovah is progressively clarifying Bible understanding more than ever. (Dan. 12:4) Even so, we may find it challenging to keep up with adjustments to our understanding of Bible truths. Where can we find these adjustments and explanations?

• The Watch Tower Publications Index entry “Beliefs Clarified” provides a complete list of adjustments sorted by year. For a list of topics, enter “understanding clarified” (including the quotation marks) in the search box of Watchtower Library or Watchtower ONLINE LIBRARY^™.

• The Research Guide for Jehovah’s Witnesses contains a condensed list sorted by topic. Go to “Jehovah’s Witnesses,” then “Views and Beliefs,” and then “Clarification of Our Beliefs.”

As a personal study project, why not pick a recent adjustment and research our current understanding and the Scriptural reasons for the change?