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

1-2. What are some reasons why the book of Job is worth reading?

HAVE you recently had the pleasure of reading the book of Job? Though written some 3,500 years ago, this ancient book is often counted among the masterpieces of world literature. Commenting on its simple structure, beautiful style, and expressive language, one reference work calls its writer “a literary genius.” Moses was the man who penned this remarkable book, but the real Author is Jehovah God.​—2 Tim. 3:16.

² The book of Job is a key part of the Bible. Why? For one thing, it clearly reveals the great issue facing all intelligent creation​—the sanctification of Jehovah’s name. It also teaches us about Jehovah’s marvelous qualities, such as his love, wisdom, justice, and power. For example, the book of Job refers to Jehovah as “the Almighty” 31 times, more than the rest of the Scriptures combined. The book of Job also answers many of life’s questions, including one that still troubles many: Why does God allow suffering?

3. What are some benefits we can gain from studying the book of Job?

³ Just as a mountain gives us a vantage point from which we can see our surroundings clearly, the book of Job helps us to view life’s trials from an elevated perspective​—Jehovah’s perspective. Let us see how the book of Job can help us when we suffer. We will learn how the Israelites could have benefited from the story of Job and how we can benefit from it today. We will also learn how we can use this Bible account to help others.

GOD ALLOWS JOB TO SUFFER

4. What stark contrast existed between Job and the Israelites in Egypt?

⁴ During the time that the Israelites were suffering as slaves in Egypt, a man named Job was living in the land of Uz, possibly located east of the Promised Land and somewhere in the north of Arabia. In stark contrast to the Israelites who had begun worshipping idols in Egypt, Job served Jehovah faithfully. (Josh. 24:14; Ezek. 20:8) Jehovah said of Job: “There is no one like him on the earth.”a (Job 1:8) Job was extremely wealthy and enjoyed great prestige​—greater than that of any other person of the East. (Job 1:3) How infuriated Satan must have been to see this prominent and influential man serving God with integrity!

5. Why did Jehovah allow Job to suffer? (Job 1:20-22; 2:9, 10)

⁵ Satan claimed that Job would abandon true worship if he suffered. (Job 1:7-11; 2:2-5) Though Jehovah loved Job dearly, Satan’s brazen claim raised many important issues, so Jehovah allowed Satan to try to prove his case. (Job 1:12-19; 2:6-8) Satan took away Job’s flocks and herds, caused the death of Job’s ten children, and struck Job with painful boils from head to toe. But these sadistic attempts to break Job’s integrity failed. (Read Job 1:20-22; 2:9, 10.) In time, Jehovah restored Job’s health, wealth, and reputation, and He gave Job ten more children. He also miraculously extended Job’s life for 140 years, long enough for him to see four generations of his descendants thriving. (Job 42:10-13, 16) How could this account have benefited those in the past, and how can it benefit us today?

6. How could the Israelites have benefited from knowing why God permits suffering? (See also picture.)

⁶ How the Israelites could have benefited. The Israelites had not lived easy lives in Egypt. For example, Joshua and Caleb had spent their youth as slaves. Then through no fault of their own, they wandered for 40 years in the wilderness. If the Israelites knew about the story of Job’s trials and the outcome of his life, no doubt it helped them, as well as the Israelites of future generations, to understand who is ultimately responsible for suffering. They could also better understand why God permits suffering and how much he values human integrity and faithfulness.

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7-8. How can the book of Job help those of us who suffer? Relate an experience.

⁷ How we can benefit. Sadly, many people today have lost faith in God because they cannot understand why bad things happen to good people. Consider the example of Hazelb from Rwanda. When she was young, she believed in God. But then things changed. Her parents got divorced, and as a result, she was raised by her stepfather, who treated her badly. As a teenager, she was raped. When Hazel went to her place of worship for comfort, she did not receive it. Later, Hazel wrote a letter to God. In it she stated: “God, I prayed to you, I tried to do good, but you repaid good with evil. I am now leaving you, and I plan to do whatever makes me happy.” How our hearts break for people who, like Hazel, have been led to believe that God is responsible for their suffering!

⁸ We, however, have learned from the account in the book of Job that God is not responsible for suffering​—Satan is! We have also learned not to assume that those who suffer are reaping what they have sown. The Scriptures tell us that “time and unexpected events” can affect anyone at any time. (Eccl. 9:11; Job 4:1, 8) And we have learned that by our enduring trials faithfully, we give Jehovah a reply to Satan’s taunts. That helps to defend His reputation. (Job 2:3; Prov. 27:11) We do not take what we have learned for granted​—these insights enable us to know the truth about why we and our loved ones suffer. Later, Hazel studied with Jehovah’s Witnesses and came to understand that God did not cause her suffering. She said: “I prayed to God again from the bottom of my heart. I told Jehovah that when I had said I was leaving him, I was not really leaving him. After all, I didn’t really know him. Now I understand that Jehovah loves me. I am finally happy and content.” How grateful we are to know why God allows suffering! Let us now consider how the account of Job can help us personally during trials.

HOW THE ACCOUNT OF JOB HELPS US TO ENDURE

9. How would you describe Job as he sat in ashes? (James 5:11)

⁹ Picture Job as he sat alone in ashes, covered in boils and bent double in pain. His skin, blackened from the disease, peeled away from his emaciated frame. Physically exhausted, Job may have appeared to be doing little but scraping himself with pieces of broken pottery and giving vent to his despair. But Job was not merely surviving, he was enduring. (Read James 5:11.) What helped Job to endure?

10. What kind of relationship did Job have with Jehovah? Explain.

¹⁰ Job expressed his emotions to Jehovah. (Job 10:1, 2; 16:20) For example, chapter 3 tells us that Job complained bitterly about the tragedies that had befallen him, which he mistakenly assumed Jehovah had caused. Then in a series of debates with his three companions, Job strongly defended his integrity, often directing his responses to Jehovah. Job’s words suggest that for a time he considered himself to be more righteous than God. (Job 10:1-3; 32:1, 2; 35:1, 2) In reality, though, he admitted that his efforts to defend his integrity sometimes amounted to “wild talk.” (Job 6:3, 26) In chapter 31, we read that Job spoke of wanting to be exonerated by God. (Job 31:35) Of course, Job was wrong to demand a direct answer from God as to what was behind his suffering.

11. How did Jehovah react to Job’s response regarding his integrity?

¹¹ In retrospect, we can see that Job’s desperate plea reflected his unswerving devotion to Jehovah and unshakable hope that somehow God would recognize his integrity. When Jehovah did finally answer Job from a windstorm, He did not go into detail about the reasons for Job’s suffering. Neither did He condemn Job for his complaints or mention his protests of innocence. Rather, Jehovah instructed Job as a father would a son. And that was the right approach. As a result, Job humbly acknowledged how little he really knew, and he repented of his rash words. (Job 31:6; 40:4, 5; 42:1-6) How could this account have benefited people in the past, and how can it benefit us today?

12. How could the Israelites have benefited from the account of Job?

¹² How the Israelites could have benefited. The Israelites could have learned from what happened to Job. Consider Moses’ example. He had to endure a multitude of hardships, disappointments, and discouragements as he took on the role of leader of the nation of Israel. In contrast to the rebellious Israelites, who often complained against Jehovah, Moses went to Jehovah with his concerns. (Ex. 16:6-8; Num. 11:10-14; 14:1-4, 11; 16:41, 49; 17:5) Moses also needed to endure when he was personally corrected. For example, while the Israelites were encamped at Kadesh, probably during the 40th year of their wandering in the desert, Moses spoke “rashly with his lips” and failed to magnify Jehovah’s name. (Ps. 106:32, 33) As a result, Jehovah did not allow Moses to enter the Promised Land. (Deut. 32:50-52) This discipline must have hurt Moses; yet, he humbly accepted it. The account about Job could have helped future generations of the Israelites to endure the trials they faced. By meditating on the account, faithful ones could learn how to express their feelings to Jehovah and how to avoid justifying themselves before him. They could also learn how to accept Jehovah’s discipline with humility.

13. How can the account of Job help us to endure? (Hebrews 10:36)

¹³ How we can benefit. As Christians, we too need endurance. (Read Hebrews 10:36.) For example, some of us are coping with a physical or an emotional problem, a difficult family situation, the loss of a loved one, or some other serious problem. And at times, the comments or the actions of others may make our situation harder to endure. (Prov. 12:18) However, the book of Job teaches us that we can express our innermost feelings to Jehovah, confident that he will hear us. (1 John 5:14) He will not condemn us if our heartfelt supplications occasionally veer into the realm of “wild talk,” as occurred with Job. Rather, God will give us the strength and the wisdom we need to endure. (2 Chron. 16:9; Jas. 1:5) He may also correct us to the extent needed, as he did Job. The book of Job also teaches us how to endure if we receive counsel or discipline from Jehovah’s Word, His organization, or mature friends. (Heb. 12:5-7) Just as Job benefited from humbly accepting the correction he received, we benefit when we allow ourselves to be readjusted. (2 Cor. 13:11) What beneficial lessons we learn from Job! Let us now consider how we can use the account of Job to help others.

USE THE BOOK OF JOB TO HELP OTHERS

14. What line of reasoning can we use in the ministry to explain why suffering exists?

¹⁴ Have you ever met someone in the ministry who asked you why suffering exists? How did you answer his question? You may have pointed to what the Bible says happened in the garden of Eden. Perhaps you started by mentioning that Satan, a wicked spirit, told the first human couple a lie that led them to rebel against God. (Gen. 3:1-6) Then you may have pointed out that after Adam and Eve’s rebellion, the world became filled with suffering and death. (Rom. 5:12) Finally, you may have explained that God is allowing enough time to pass to disprove Satan’s lie and to spread the good news that in the future humans will again be perfect. (Rev. 21:3, 4) This is a fine way to reason on the question, and it can lead to good results.

15. How might we use the book of Job to help someone who asks why suffering exists? (See also pictures.)

¹⁵ Consider another line of reasoning that you may want to incorporate in your approach, one from the book of Job. You might start by commending the person for asking such a meaningful question. Then, mention that Job, a faithful man who suffered greatly, raised a similar thought. He even believed that in some way God was the cause of his pain. (Job 7:17-21) The person you are speaking with may be somewhat impressed that his view has a long history. Next, you could tactfully explain that it was not God but the Devil who caused Job’s suffering. The Devil did so in an attempt to prove that humans serve God only for selfish reasons. You might add that although God did not cause Job’s suffering, he did allow it, thus showing that God trusts faithful humans to prove Satan wrong. Finally, you could explain that in time God blessed Job for remaining faithful. So we can comfort others by assuring them that suffering does not come from Jehovah.

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16. Relate an experience that shows how the book of Job can help someone who is suffering.

¹⁶ Consider how the book of Job helped Mario. One day in 2021, a sister was doing telephone witnessing. On her first call, she shared a Bible verse with Mario and explained that God not only listens to our prayers but also offers us a future and a hope. When she asked for his thoughts, Mario told her that he had been writing a suicide note when she called. He said, “I believe in God, but I was just wondering this morning if he had abandoned me.” The second phone call led to a discussion about Job’s suffering. Mario decided that he needed to read the entire book of Job. So our sister sent him a link to the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. The result? Mario accepted a Bible study and was excited to learn more about the loving God who took an interest in him.

17. Why are you grateful to Jehovah for including the book of Job in His inspired Word? (Job 34:12)

¹⁷ Clearly, God’s Word has tremendous power to help people, including those who suffer. (Heb. 4:12) How grateful we are that Jehovah included the account of Job in His inspired Word! (Job 19:23, 24) The book of Job assures us that “for a certainty, God does not act wickedly.” (Read Job 34:12.) It also teaches us why God permits suffering and how we can endure it. And it helps us to console those who suffer. The next article will discuss insights from the book of Job, such as how to give effective counsel.

1-2. What challenge do Job’s three companions and Elihu face?

THE news spreads like wildfire among the people of the East. Job, a man known far and wide for his riches, has lost everything. When three of Job’s companions​—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—​learn what has happened to Job, they journey to Uz in order to comfort him. But they are not prepared for what they see when they arrive.

² Imagine the scene. In a sense, everything that Job possessed has been taken from him. His vast herds of sheep, cattle, camels, and donkeys are gone. His children have been killed and most of his servants have been slaughtered. And the house where Job’s children were killed lies in ruins. As if that were not bad enough, Job is personally affected. His body is now covered with painful boils. From a distance, the three men see Job dejected and sitting in ashes. How do they react? For some seven days, they do not say a word to this man who is in great pain. (Job 2:12, 13) At one point, a younger man named Elihu arrives and sits down nearby. Job finally breaks the silence by cursing the day he was born and wishing for death. (Job 3:1-3, 11) Clearly, Job needs help! What these men say and how they say it will prove whether they are really Job’s friends and whether they are truly interested in his welfare.

3. What will we now focus on?

³ Jehovah had Moses record what Job’s three companions and Elihu said and did. It is worth noting that some of what Eliphaz said seems to have been inspired by a wicked spirit. In contrast, Elihu’s statements were inspired by Jehovah. (Job 4:12-16; 33:24, 25) Little wonder, then, that even though the book of Job contains some of the best advice ever given, it also contains some of the worst. A key benefit that we can gain from the book of Job is how it can help us when we need to give counsel. First, we will consider the bad examples of Job’s three companions. Then, we will discuss the good example of Elihu. In each case, we will learn how the Israelites could have benefited from the book of Job and how we can benefit from it today.

HOW JOB’S THREE COMPANIONS COUNSELED HIM

4. Why did Job’s three companions fail to achieve their objective? (See also picture.)

⁴ The Bible says that Job’s three companions went to “sympathize with Job and comfort him” after hearing about his calamities. (Job 2:11) However, they failed to achieve that objective. Why? For at least three reasons. First, they were quick to jump to wrong conclusions. For example, they mistakenly assumed that Job was being punished for sins that he had committed.a (Job 4:7; 11:14) Second, much of the counsel those men gave Job was unhelpful, unkind, and downright hurtful. For instance, all three men made statements that sounded good but were lacking real substance. (Job 13:12) Twice, Bildad unkindly told Job that he talked too much. (Job 8:2; 18:2) And Zophar cuttingly implied that Job was “empty-headed.” (Job 11:12) Third, although they may not have raised their voices when speaking to Job, their tone was often condescending, sarcastic, and accusatory. (Job 15:7-11) Ultimately, these men became more interested in proving Job wrong than in healing his heart or building up his faith.

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5. What resulted from the counsel that Job’s companions gave?

⁵ Not surprisingly, the counsel Job’s companions gave did not yield good results. Job felt crushed by their words. (Job 19:2) You can appreciate why he also felt the need to defend his reputation. That led him to become unbalanced in his thinking and to speak unwisely. (Job 6:3, 26) Job’s companions did not share thoughts that harmonized with Jehovah’s thinking; nor did they treat Job with compassion. As a result, they unwittingly became tools in Satan’s hands. (Job 2:4, 6) How could this account have benefited those in the past, and how can it benefit us today?

6. What could the elders in Israel have learned from the bad example of Job’s three companions?

⁶ How the Israelites could have benefited. After forming the nation of Israel, Jehovah appointed qualified men, elders, to judge the nation according to his righteous standards. (Deut. 1:15-18; 27:1) Such men needed to listen carefully before giving advice or rendering judgment. (2 Chron. 19:6) They also needed to ask questions rather than assume that they knew all the facts. (Deut. 19:18) Those counselors in Israel needed to avoid speaking harshly to those who came to them for help. Why? Because displaying irritation could discourage a person from opening his or her heart. (Ex. 22:22-24) The elders in Israel who considered the account of Job could have indeed gleaned lessons from it.

7. Besides the elders in Israel, who could give counsel, and how could they have benefited from the account of Job? (Proverbs 27:9)

⁷ Of course, mature men were not the only ones who could give counsel in Israel. Really, any Israelite​—young or old, male or female—​could offer advice to a companion who needed help to improve in his worship or to correct his conduct. (Ps. 141:5) Such sincere counsel is the mark of a true friend. (Read Proverbs 27:9.) The bad example of Job’s three companions had the potential to provide the Israelites with a living pattern of what not to say and what not to do when giving counsel.

8. What pitfalls do we need to avoid when giving counsel? (See also pictures.)

⁸ How we can benefit. As Christians, we want to help our brothers and sisters when they go through trials. However, to do so, we must avoid what Job’s three companions did. First, we should refrain from jumping to conclusions and be sure that what we say is based on solid facts. Second, we should not build our advice primarily on the unstable ground of personal experience, as Eliphaz often did, but, rather, on the solid bedrock of God’s Word. (Job 4:8; 5:3, 27) Third, we need to avoid harsh or critical speech. Remember, Eliphaz and his companions did speak about some things that were true; one of their statements was even quoted by another inspired Bible writer. (Compare Job 5:13 with 1 Corinthians 3:19.) Nevertheless, most of what they said misrepresented God and hurt Job, so Jehovah judged what they said as false. (Job 42:7, 8) Good counsel never paints Jehovah as unreasonable or his servants as unlovable. Let us now discuss what we can learn from Elihu’s example.

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HOW ELIHU COUNSELED JOB

9. Explain why Job needed help after his companions stopped talking and how Jehovah provided it.

⁹ By the time Job and his companions stopped arguing, the atmosphere must have been tense. Those men had spoken enough words to fill 28 chapters of the Bible, and much of what was said was spoken in anger or out of frustration. No wonder Job’s pain remained! He still needed comfort and correction. How did Jehovah help Job? He used Elihu to give him counsel. Why did Elihu not speak up sooner? “I am young,” he said, “and you men are aged. So I respectfully held back.” (Job 32:6, 7) Young Elihu realized what many come to realize today: Older ones have lived and learned and, as a result, have wisdom as well as experience in life that younger ones often do not have. But after listening patiently to Job and his companions, Elihu could no longer keep silent. He said: “Age alone does not make one wise, nor is it only old men who understand what is right.” (Job 32:9) What did Elihu say next, and how did he say it?

10. What did Elihu do before he offered Job counsel? (Job 33:6, 7)

¹⁰ Before Elihu gave Job any counsel, he created the right atmosphere. How? First, he got his own emotions under control. We know this because the Bible says that at first Elihu was angry. (Job 32:2-5) Yet, not once did Elihu attack Job out of frustration. On the contrary, he spoke reassuringly to him. For example, he said to Job: “Look! I am just like you before the true God.” (Read Job 33:6, 7.) Then Elihu made it clear that he had listened carefully to Job. In fact, he summarized the key points in Job’s six speeches. (Job 32:11; 33:8-11) Elihu did something similar when he again offered Job counsel.​—Job 34:5, 6, 9; 35:1-4.

11. How did Elihu counsel Job? (Job 33:1)

¹¹ When offering Job counsel, Elihu did so in a way that dignified that faithful man. For example, Elihu used Job’s name, which the other three men apparently did not. (Read Job 33:1.) Perhaps remembering his own strong desire to speak while Job and his companions argued, Elihu also empathetically offered Job a chance to respond to his counsel. (Job 32:4; 33:32) Elihu also clearly warned Job of the danger of some of his reasoning and kindly reminded him of Jehovah’s wisdom, power, justice, and loyal love. (Job 36:18, 21-26; 37:23, 24) Elihu’s good counsel no doubt put Job in the right frame of mind to receive additional instruction, this time from his Creator. (Job 38:1-3) How could the example of Elihu have benefited those in the past, and how can it benefit us today?

12. How did Jehovah use prophets to help his people, and how could the Israelites have benefited from Elihu’s good example?

¹² How the Israelites could have benefited. Throughout Israel’s history, Jehovah appointed prophets to make his purpose known to the Israelites. For example, during the period of the Judges, Deborah provided motherly spiritual guidance to the nation and Samuel tirelessly served as Jehovah’s spokesman from his youth. (Judg. 4:4-7; 5:7; 1 Sam. 3:19, 20) Then during the time of the kings, Jehovah provided an almost continuous line of prophets to strengthen his people spiritually and to give advice to those who strayed from pure worship. (2 Sam. 12:1-4; Acts 3:24) Elihu’s example recorded in the book of Job had the potential to help faithful men and women to understand what to say and how to say it when giving counsel.

13. How can Christians today encourage fellow worshippers?

¹³ How we can benefit. As Christians, we too make known God’s will by proclaiming what is found in his Word, the Bible. Another way we do so is by using words that build up and encourage our fellow worshippers. (1 Cor. 14:3) Elders need to be especially aware of the need to “speak consolingly” to their brothers and sisters, even those who might be agitated or inclined to engage in “wild talk.”​—1 Thess. 5:14; Job 6:3.

14-15. Illustrate how an elder can imitate Elihu when giving counsel.

¹⁴ Imagine this situation. An elder learns that a sister in his congregation is feeling depressed. Commendably, he and another brother visit her to try to provide encouragement. During the visit, the sister expresses negative emotions. She mentions that although she is attending meetings and going out in the ministry, she feels little joy. How will the brother taking the lead react?

¹⁵ First, he will likely try to learn the underlying reasons for the sister’s pain. To accomplish that, he will have to listen patiently. Does she feel unworthy of God’s love? Are the “anxieties of life” breaking her spirit? (Luke 21:34) Second, the elder will look for opportunities to commend the sister. She is, after all, still attending meetings and sharing in the ministry despite feeling depressed. And third, once the elder understands the situation and what is causing the sister to feel discouraged, he will use the Bible to build up her confidence in God’s love for her.​—Gal. 2:20.

CONTINUE TO BENEFIT FROM THE BOOK OF JOB

16. How can we continue to benefit from the book of Job?

¹⁶ What benefits we receive from examining the book of Job! As we learned in the preceding article, this inspired account teaches us not only why God permits suffering but also how we can endure it. And as we have considered in this discussion, all of us can learn to give effective counsel by not following the bad examples of Job’s three companions but instead following the good example of Elihu. Why not review the lessons you have learned from the book of Job before offering counsel to others in the future? And if it has been some time since you have had the pleasure of reading the book of Job, make it your goal to reread this remarkable book. You will find that it is just as beneficial today as it was when it was written.

1. Why is Jehovah’s humility remarkable?

WHEN you observe people in power today, does the quality of humility come to mind? Likely not. Yet, Jehovah, who is almighty, is humble. (Ps. 113:5-8) Humility permeates Jehovah’s personality; there is not a trace of haughtiness in him. It will benefit us to consider four aspects of Jehovah’s beautiful personality and discover how his humility is reflected in each of them. We will also consider how Jesus imitated his Father’s humility. By examining these facets, we will be helped to draw closer to Jehovah and to imitate his humility to a greater degree.

JEHOVAH IS APPROACHABLE

2. What does Psalm 62:8 reveal about Jehovah? (See also picture.)

² Proud people are not usually approachable. Their inflated egos cause them to act in ways that make others hesitate to go to them or cause others to avoid them altogether. How different Jehovah is! Because our heavenly Father is humble, he invites us to approach him and tell him about the things that are weighing on our mind and heart. (Read Psalm 62:8.) Just as a caring father readily listens to his children’s concerns, Jehovah welcomes and listens to the prayers of his worshippers. In fact, he had many of these prayers recorded in the Bible. That shows how approachable he is. (Josh. 10:12-14; 1 Sam. 1:10-18) But what if for some reason we at times feel unworthy to approach Jehovah?

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3. Why can you be certain that Jehovah wants you to approach him regularly in prayer?

³ We can approach Jehovah in prayer even if we feel unworthy of his love. Why can we say that? In Jesus’ parable of the lost son, he likened Jehovah to a tenderhearted father whose repentant son felt unworthy of being accepted back into the family. How did that father react when his son returned home? Jesus said that as soon as the father caught sight of his son, the father “ran and embraced him and tenderly kissed him.” (Luke 15:17-20) Jehovah is like that father. As soon as he hears the prayers of individuals whose hearts are broken and crushed by the burden of guilt or worry, his humility moves him to give them his full attention. (Lam. 3:19, 20) Jehovah is moved with compassion, and he runs to them, as it were, to comfort and reassure them of his mercy and love. (Isa. 57:15) How does Jehovah “run to us” today? He often does so by means of the elders, believing family members, and other fellow worshippers. (Jas. 5:14, 15) Jehovah provides this help because he wants us to be close to him.

4. How did Jesus show that he was approachable?

⁴ Jesus imitates his Father. Like his Father, Jesus is humble. As a result, while he was on earth, people felt comfortable approaching him. They felt at ease with asking him questions. (Mark 4:10, 11) So when he invited their comments on a matter, they would tell him what they truly felt. (Matt. 16:13-16) And when they made mistakes, they did not cringe in fear; they knew that Jesus was kind, merciful, and patient. (Matt. 17:24-27) It is significant that because of how well Jesus imitated his Father, Jesus’ followers came to know Jehovah better. (John 14:9) They learned that Jehovah was nothing like the harsh, proud, and aloof religious leaders of the day. Rather, he was humble and approachable.

5. How can humility help us to be more approachable?

⁵ How can we imitate Jehovah? By cultivating humility, we will become more approachable. Humility will prevent us from being envious, prideful, and unforgiving​—traits that push others away. But humility will help us to be kind, patient, and forgiving​—traits that draw others to us. (Col. 3:12-14) Elders must especially strive to be approachable. Of course, in order to be approachable, they need to be visible. This means that they endeavor to attend congregation meetings in person, preferring that to attending via videoconferencing unnecessarily. And as their circumstances allow, they try to work along with the brothers and sisters in the house-to-house ministry. As these ones get better acquainted with the elders, they will feel comfortable confiding in them when the need arises.

JEHOVAH IS REASONABLE

6-7. Give examples of how Jehovah has yielded to the requests of his servants.

⁶ Many proud people are unreasonable in their dealings with others. But because Jehovah is humble, he is reasonable, or yielding​—even though he is superior to everyone in every way. Consider how he dealt with Moses’ sister, Miriam. She, along with Aaron, murmured against Moses, who was Jehovah’s representative. So Miriam was, in essence, showing disrespect for Jehovah. As a result, Jehovah was furious with Miriam and struck her with leprosy. But when Aaron pleaded in her behalf and Moses begged Jehovah to heal his sister, how did God respond? God did not proudly hold to the judgment he had brought on her. Because Jehovah is humble, he yielded by healing Miriam.​—Num. 12:1-15.

⁷ Jehovah also showed humility in his dealings with King Hezekiah. By means of His prophet, Jehovah informed the king that he was going to die. Hezekiah tearfully begged Jehovah to heal him. In response, Jehovah mercifully added 15 years to the king’s life. (2 Ki. 20:1, 5, 6) Yes, humility moves Jehovah to be compassionate and yielding.

8. What examples demonstrate that Jesus is reasonable? (Mark 3:1-6)

⁸ Jesus imitates his Father. While on earth, Jesus did not withhold good from others when it was reasonable to help them. For example, he healed people on the Sabbath despite the objections of his hardhearted opposers. (Read Mark 3:1-6.) Jesus continues to be reasonable as head of the Christian congregation. For instance, when someone in the congregation commits a serious sin, he is patient with him, giving him ample opportunity to correct his course.​—Rev. 2:2-5.

9. How can we cultivate and show reasonableness? (See also pictures.)

⁹ How can we imitate Jehovah? We must humbly work to cultivate Jehovah’s reasonable way of thinking and acting. (Jas. 3:17) For example, reasonable parents, while not permissive, do not expect more from their children than the young ones can give. That is well-illustrated by Jacob, as seen in the account found at Genesis 33:12-14. Humble and reasonable parents should also try to avoid unfairly comparing one child with another. Christian elders too must be reasonable. One way they can do this is by yielding to the decision of the majority on the body when doing so does not violate Bible principles. (1 Tim. 3:2, 3) And all of us can try to understand the viewpoint of others even if we see things differently. (Rom. 14:1) Yes, everyone in the congregation should strive to let his “reasonableness become known to all men.”​—Phil. 4:5.

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JEHOVAH IS PATIENT

10. In what ways has Jehovah shown patience?

¹⁰ You have probably noted that proud people do not like to be kept waiting. Pride makes them impatient. What a contrast that is to Jehovah, who is the very epitome of patience! For instance, in the days of Noah, Jehovah stated that He would wait 120 years before destroying the wicked. (Gen. 6:3) Noah had time to raise his children and build the ark with the help of his family. Later, Jehovah’s angelic representative listened patiently as Abraham questioned him about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. A proud person might have responded, ‘How dare you question me!’ But in imitation of Jehovah, that angel was patient with Abraham.​—Gen. 18:20-33.

11. As stated at 2 Peter 3:9, why is Jehovah showing patience in our time?

¹¹ Jehovah is humbly showing patience in our time too. He is waiting for his set time to arrive to bring the end. Why is he patient? “Because he does not desire anyone to be destroyed but desires all to attain to repentance.” (Read 2 Peter 3:9.) Has Jehovah’s patience been in vain? No! Millions of righthearted ones have drawn close to him. And we hope many millions more will yet do so. Nonetheless, Jehovah’s patience has limits. Jehovah loves people, but he is not permissive. He will not let wickedness continue forever.​—Hab. 2:3.

12. How is Jesus imitating Jehovah’s patience?

¹² Jesus imitates his Father. For thousands of years, Jesus has imitated Jehovah’s patience. Jesus has watched Satan slander both Jehovah and faithful humans. (Gen. 3:4, 5; Job 1:11; Rev. 12:10) Jesus has also witnessed unspeakable suffering. Imagine how much he must long “to break up the works of the Devil”! (1 John 3:8) What helps Jesus to wait patiently for Jehovah’s approval to destroy the Devil’s works completely? For one thing, Jesus’ humility moves him to leave the timing of matters where they rightly belong​—in Jehovah’s hands.​—Acts 1:7.

13. How and why was Jesus patient with his apostles?

¹³ When on earth, Jesus was also patient with his apostles. For example, when the apostles argued time and again over who was the greatest, Jesus did not throw his hands up in despair. Instead, he continued to be patient. (Luke 9:46; 22:24-27) He trusted that in time they would make the needed changes. Have you repeatedly made the same mistake? If so, are you not grateful to have such a humble and patient King ruling over you?

14. How can we cultivate patience?

¹⁴ How can we imitate Jehovah? When we develop “the mind of Christ,” we put ourselves in the best position to think and act like Jehovah. (1 Cor. 2:16) How can we better understand Christ’s mind? There is no shortcut. We must read the Gospels. Then we need to take time to reflect on how the accounts we read reveal Jesus’ thinking on matters. And without a doubt, we must ask Jehovah to help us reflect Jesus’ humble way of thinking. As we develop the mind of Christ, we will become more like God by showing greater patience both with ourselves and with our fellow believers.​—Matt. 18:26-30, 35.

JEHOVAH DIGNIFIES LOWLY ONES

15. How has Jehovah lived up to the words found at Psalm 138:6?

¹⁵ Read Psalm 138:6. What an honor it is for humble ones to be acknowledged by the Sovereign of the universe! Consider just a few examples of lowly people whom Jehovah has dignified over the centuries. Some of them might not readily come to mind, but they are included in the Bible record. Jehovah inspired Moses to record the name of a nurse named Deborah, who lived during the time of the patriarchs. She served faithfully in both Isaac’s and Jacob’s households for a total of some 125 years! Though not much is known about this loyal woman, Jehovah made sure to note in the inspired record how beloved she was. (Gen. 24:59; 35:8, ftn.) Centuries later, Jehovah raised up David, a shepherd boy, and made him king of the nation of Israel. (2 Sam. 22:1, 36) Shortly after Jesus was born, God sent angels to honor humble shepherds by letting them be the first to know that in nearby Bethlehem the future Messiah had been born. (Luke 2:8-11) And when Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple, Jehovah dignified elderly Simeon and Anna by pointing out His Son to them. (Luke 2:25-30, 36-38) Yes, “though Jehovah is high, he takes note of the humble”!

16. How did Jesus imitate the way his Father treats others?

¹⁶ Jesus imitates his Father. Like his Father, Jesus dignified humble people. He taught “uneducated and ordinary” people truths about the Kingdom of God. (Acts 4:13; Matt. 11:25) Jesus also healed the sick and treated them in ways that restored not only their health but also their dignity. (Luke 5:13) On the final night before his death, Jesus took on the role of a servant by washing his apostles’ feet. (John 13:5) And prior to ascending to heaven, he dignified all his humble followers, present and future, by giving them the most important work any human can have​—helping others to gain everlasting life.​—Matt. 28:19, 20.

17. How can we dignify others? (See also picture.)

¹⁷ How can we imitate Jehovah? We dignify people when we share the good news with all who listen, regardless of their background, skin color, or level of education. And we dignify our brothers and sisters when we consider them superior to us, regardless of any abilities or privileges we may have. (Phil. 2:3) Jehovah is pleased when we humbly “take the lead” in showing honor to one another in these and in other ways.​—Rom. 12:10; Zeph. 3:12.

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18. Why do you want to imitate Jehovah’s humility?

¹⁸ As we strive to imitate our loving heavenly Father’s humility, we will become more approachable, more reasonable, and more patient. And we will dignify others, as Jehovah does. May our efforts to draw closer to our humble God make each of us even more precious in his eyes!​—Isa. 43:4.

1-2. How does Jehovah view weddings?

ARE you engaged to be married? If so, congratulations! You are likely quite involved in planning your wedding. Jehovah is interested in your marriage. He wants you to enjoy your weddinga day and have a happy future together.​—Prov. 5:18; Song of Sol. 3:11.

² Jehovah deserves to be shown honor at your wedding. Why can we say that? And how can you do so? Although this article is primarily addressed to couples who are preparing for their wedding, the principles discussed can help all of us to honor Jehovah if we attend a wedding or if we are asked for observations on the plans being made.

WHY HONOR JEHOVAH?

3. When planning their wedding, a Christian couple should take what into account, and why?

³ Couples who are planning a Christian wedding should do so in harmony with the principles that Jehovah has outlined in his Word. Why? Because Jehovah is the Originator of marriage. He arranged for the very first wedding​—the one that joined Adam and Eve in matrimony. (Gen. 1:28; 2:24) So God’s thinking should be foremost on the minds of those who are planning a wedding.

4. What reason do couples have to show honor to Jehovah on their wedding day?

⁴ You have a significant reason to consider Jehovah’s thinking on your wedding day: He is your heavenly Father and your best Friend. (Heb. 12:9) You undoubtedly want that to continue to be true. You would never want anything to happen on that day or any other day that would hurt your Friend. (Ps. 25:14) When you consider everything that Jehovah has done and will do for you, would you not agree that he deserves honor at your wedding?​—Ps. 116:12.

HOW CAN YOU HONOR JEHOVAH?

5. How can the Bible help couples to plan their wedding?

⁵ The Bible does not provide a list of rules about Christian wedding ceremonies or any receptions that may follow. There is room for different circumstances, customs, and preferences. True worshippers also respect legal requirements provided by Caesar. (Matt. 22:21) Still, a wedding that is organized according to Bible principles will honor Jehovah and make him happy. So, what principles should you keep in mind?

6. Why is it important for a couple to comply with legal requirements for marriage?

⁶ Comply with legal requirements. (Rom. 13:1, 2) In most countries, a couple must satisfy certain legal requirements before getting married. The couple should find out what these are where they live. If you have questions on how to go about doing so, feel free to ask the elders for help.b

7. What atmosphere is appropriate for a wedding?

⁷ Create the right atmosphere. (1 Cor. 10:31, 32) Strive to have an atmosphere that reflects the fruitage of God’s spirit rather than the spirit of the world. (Gal. 5:19-26) In line with the Scriptural principle of headship, the groom is responsible for making sure that the wedding is a happy and dignified event. What can help to that end? A Bible-based wedding talk, delivered with love, warmth, and dignity, builds appreciation for God’s marital arrangement. All in attendance can benefit because the talk will help to underscore the seriousness of the occasion. Accordingly, most Christian couples choose to have the ceremony at a Kingdom Hall, if possible. If you wish to use a Kingdom Hall, you should submit a written request to the body of elders well in advance.

8. What can help maintain a dignified atmosphere at a reception? (Romans 13:13)

⁸ Read Romans 13:13. If you choose to have a wedding reception, how can you prevent it from reflecting the spirit of the world? The Greek word rendered “wild parties” referred to gatherings that included overdrinking and music that went late into the night. (See “wild parties” study note on Romans 13:13.) If you choose to serve alcoholic beverages, take precautions to ensure that no one drinks too much.c If there is music, keep the volume at a level that will allow your guests to enjoy conversation. Carefully review the genre of music as well as the lyrics so that no one will be stumbled.

9. What should a couple keep in mind about speeches or other entertainment during their reception?

⁹ Will you have short comments from others, slideshows, videos, or other types of entertainment at your reception? These can often add something special to the day. However, make sure that what is presented will be upbuilding. (Phil. 4:8) Ask yourself: ‘Will it show respect for others? Will it dignify the marriage arrangement?’ And more important, ask yourself: ‘Will it honor Jehovah?’ Although some humor may be fitting, avoid anything inappropriate, such as making sexually suggestive references. (Eph. 5:3) Ensure that family members and friends who will say a few words understand and respect your wishes.

10. Why should a couple be modest when planning their wedding? (1 John 2:15-17)

¹⁰ Be modest. (Read 1 John 2:15-17.) Jehovah appreciates it when his worshippers seek to honor him rather than to bring improper attention to themselves. So modest Christians would avoid spending an excessive amount of money and making a “showy display.” How will you benefit by keeping your wedding simple? Perhaps it will turn out as it did for Mike, a brother from Norway. He says: “We stayed out of debt and were able to continue pioneering. Our wedding was simple but still beautiful and memorable.” Tabitha, a sister from India, says: “We avoided a lot of anxiety. By keeping our wedding simple, there was less to plan and to disagree over.”

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11. How can a bride and groom show modesty by their dress and grooming? (See also pictures.)

¹¹ Have you decided what you will wear? No doubt you want to look your best. Even in Bible times, a bride and groom paid close attention to how they looked. (Isa. 61:10) Granted, what you wear to your wedding may be somewhat different from what you would wear on other occasions, but it should not be less modest. (1 Tim. 2:9) Do not let clothing​—or any other material thing—​become the most noteworthy feature of your wedding.​—1 Pet. 3:3, 4.

12. Why should a couple be sure to reject any unscriptural wedding customs that are common in their area?

¹² Reject unscriptural customs. (Rev. 18:4) Satan’s system has contaminated wedding traditions with pagan, spiritistic, and superstitious practices. Jehovah clearly warns us to stay far away from such unclean things. (2 Cor. 6:14-17) If there are some customs, or traditions, in your area that are questionable, consider their origin and any Bible principles that apply before deciding what to include in your wedding.

13. How can a couple imitate Jehovah’s view of receiving gifts?

¹³ Is it customary where you live for guests to offer a gift to the married couple? The financial situation of some guests may affect the type of gift that they choose to give. Of course, Christians are encouraged to give, and it makes them happy to do so. (Prov. 11:25; Acts 20:35) However, we would not want to make our guests feel obligated to give; nor would we make them feel that a modest gift would not be appreciated. We imitate Jehovah, striving to have his view of gifts by letting others give according to their means and from the heart.​—2 Cor. 9:7.

AVOIDING AND OVERCOMING CHALLENGES

14. What challenges do some couples face?

¹⁴ You may face challenges as you try to plan a wedding that brings honor to Jehovah. For example, you may find it difficult to plan a simple wedding. Charlie, who is from the Solomon Islands, says: “It was very hard to determine whom to invite to the reception. We have many friends, and in our culture, everyone expects to be invited!” Tabitha, mentioned earlier, says: “Where I live, large receptions are common. It took time for our parents to accept our decision to invite only about 100 people.” Sarah, from India, says: “Some people place a lot of value on social status. My cousins had a grand wedding, so I felt some pressure to have an even more luxurious one.” What can help you to overcome these and other challenges?

15. Why is prayer an important part of wedding planning?

¹⁵ Make wedding planning a matter of prayer. You can tell Jehovah in prayer about any issue that you are facing or about your feelings. (Phil. 4:6, 7 and study note “in everything”) You can ask him to help you to make good decisions, to stay calm when you are feeling anxious, and to show courage when courage is needed. (1 Pet. 5:7) Your trust in Jehovah will grow as you see him act in your behalf. Tabitha, quoted earlier, says: “My fiancé and I were worried about having disagreements with each other and with our families. So every time we discussed wedding plans, we started with a prayer. We really felt Jehovah’s help and enjoyed a peaceful atmosphere.”

16-17. How can good communication help when planning a wedding?

¹⁶ Communicate clearly and tactfully. (Prov. 15:22) As a couple, you will need to make many decisions about your wedding. This includes deciding on a date, a budget, an invitation list, and many other things. Before you make a decision, review your options together and discuss Bible principles that apply as well as any advice you get from mature, experienced Christians. When expressing your personal preferences, be kind, sensible, and flexible. If close family members​—such as your parents—​have reasonable requests, try to honor them. This is a special occasion for them too. If you cannot do as they recommend, explain your reasons tactfully. (Col. 4:6) Make it clear to family members that your main objective is to have a happy occasion that honors Jehovah.

¹⁷ Explaining your choices to your parents may be especially difficult if they are not in the truth, but you can succeed. “Our families wanted us to include various Hindu rituals,” says Santhosh, a brother in India. “It took my fiancée and me a long time to explain our decisions to them. We made some adjustments where we felt that we could do so without displeasing Jehovah. For example, we changed the menu at the reception to something that was appealing to them and decided not to include any singing or dancing because they were not accustomed to such things.”

18. What can help you to make sure the wedding day goes smoothly? (1 Corinthians 14:40) (See also picture.)

¹⁸ Plan carefully. By being well-organized, you will likely feel less stress on your wedding day. (Read 1 Corinthians 14:40.) Wayne, from Taiwan, says: “A few days before our wedding, we had a small meeting with those who volunteered to help us with the event. We discussed our arrangements and rehearsed some portions of the wedding to ensure that it would go smoothly.” Out of respect for your guests, do your best to keep things on time.

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19. What can help you to stay in control of what takes place at your wedding reception?

¹⁹ Many problems can be averted by your thinking ahead. (Prov. 22:3) For example, if you live in an area where it is common for uninvited guests to show up at a wedding reception, consider what you can do to prevent this from happening. Make sure that any relatives who are not in the truth know what they can expect, and explain your view of certain wedding customs. You could share with them the article “What Happens at a Wedding of Jehovah’s Witnesses?” found on jw.org. To help you stay in control of what takes place at your reception, consider having a mature brother serve as “the director of the feast.” (John 2:8) If you clearly communicate your wedding plans to him, he can help you to make sure that the wedding remains dignified and goes as planned.

20. What should a couple remember about their wedding?

²⁰ You may feel somewhat overwhelmed as you consider everything that is involved in planning your wedding. However, remember that your wedding is just one day. It is the first day of what can become a beautiful life together as servants of Jehovah. Do your best to keep your wedding simple and dignified. Trust in Jehovah. With his guidance, you will be able to organize a wedding that you will look back on with warm and happy memories and no regrets.​—Ps. 37:3, 4.

Perhaps you too have slowed down as a result of the effects of growing older. Despite having served Jehovah faithfully for many years, you might think negatively about yourself because of your present limitations. For example, you might tend to compare what you are doing today with what you did in the past. If so, what can you do to cope with such thinking?

WHAT JEHOVAH EXPECTS OF YOU

Ask yourself, ‘What does Jehovah expect of me?’ You can find comfort in the words of Deuteronomy 6:5, which says: “You must love Jehovah your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your strength.”

According to that verse, Jehovah expects you to serve him with all your heart, soul, and strength. That fact can help you to avoid comparing yourself with others​—or comparing what you can do now with what you were able to do in the past.

Consider this: When you were younger, what were you giving to Jehovah? Most of Jehovah’s people would say that they were giving him their best. For you, that was your best according to your circumstances then. What are you presently able to give to Jehovah? It is likely your best according to your circumstances today, what you can do at present. If you view matters in that light, you can conclude that you are giving Jehovah the same as you were in the past. You were giving him your best then, and you are giving him your best now.

YOU CAN GREATLY BENEFIT OTHERS

Here is another aspect of the matter: Rather than view your age as a limitation, you can try to look at it as an opportunity. Indeed, as an older Christian, you can do some things now that you could not do when you were younger. For example, you can do the following:

Share your experience with others. Consider the following expressions recorded in the Bible:

King David: “I was once young and now I am old, but I have not seen anyone righteous abandoned, nor his children looking for bread.”​—Ps. 37:25.

Joshua: “Now look! I am about to die, and you well know with all your heart and with all your soul that not one word out of all the good promises that Jehovah your God has spoken to you has failed. They have all come true for you. Not one word of them has failed.”​—Josh. 23:14.

Perhaps you have made similar expressions. David and Joshua each spoke from personal experience. Because these faithful servants of Jehovah were expressing what they had seen and heard over long decades of observation, their expressions could carry more weight.

If you have been serving Jehovah for a long time, you too can speak from experience about the rewards of doing so. Do you have a cherished memory of a time when you saw Jehovah’s blessing on his people? Well, feel free to tell others about it! That can have a refreshing effect, as you may have experienced. Accordingly, when others hear your experiences about serving Jehovah, you can be a vital source of encouragement to them.​—Rom. 1:11, 12.

Another way you can encourage others is by attending congregation meetings in person to the extent that you are able. There you can benefit fellow believers and yourself. Connie, quoted earlier, says: “Attending meetings keeps me from getting discouraged. With all the love I receive at the Kingdom Hall, how could I become downhearted? I try to show my appreciation to others by giving them little gifts. And I make sure to continue to have a share in spiritual activities, along with my brothers and sisters.”

JEHOVAH VALUES YOUR FAITHFUL SERVICE

The Scriptures are filled with examples of people who were limited by their circumstances but who were loved by Jehovah. Consider Simeon, an elderly Israelite who was alive when Jesus was born. During Simeon’s visits to the temple, he would likely have seen younger men caring for the essential work there. But what about Simeon himself? From a human standpoint, he could have thought that in his old age he had little value in Jehovah’s eyes. But Jehovah saw things differently. He saw Simeon as “righteous and devout” and blessed him with the privilege of seeing the infant Jesus. Jehovah even used Simeon to deliver a prophecy about this future Messiah! (Luke 2:25-35) Clearly, Jehovah looked past Simeon’s elderly body and saw a man with strong faith, “and holy spirit was upon him.”

You too can be assured that Jehovah values your faithful service to him despite any limitations that you may have. In his eyes, a sacrifice is “especially acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what a person does not have.”​—2 Cor. 8:12.

With that in mind, focus on what you can do. For example, in which forms of the ministry can you still participate​—even if it is for short periods of time? Might you be able to help others by means of a brief phone call or a card? Simple acts of love can have a powerful effect on your fellow believers, especially when these acts come from a longtime servant of Jehovah.

Some have physical limitations. Note an experience from East Africa in the accompanying box “It Meant Her Life.”

Bear in mind that your record of faith and loyalty can encourage others. You are a living example of endurance, and you can be assured that “God is not unrighteous so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name by ministering and continuing to minister to the holy ones.”​—Heb. 6:10.

STAY AS ACTIVE AS YOU CAN

Studies indicate that many elderly men and women who are involved in helping others have better health, sharper thinking, and a longer life.

Of course, doing good works will not remove all the effects of aging. Only God’s Kingdom will accomplish that by reversing the real cause of aging and death​—our sinful condition.​—Rom. 5:12.

Still, the service you render to Jehovah​—which includes helping others come to know him—​keeps your hope strong and may even benefit your health. Older ones, please know that Jehovah values what you do in his service and that the congregation treasures your example of faith.

Have you carefully read this year’s issues of The Watchtower? Well, see if you can answer the following questions:

What motivates us to give Jehovah glory?

We do so because we deeply respect Jehovah and dearly love him. We also glorify him because we want others to know him.​—w25.01, p. 3.

If someone offends us, how can we be more forgiving?

We do not simply ignore our feelings; yet, letting go of anger and resentment can help us to avoid being damaged by bitterness.​—w25.02, pp. 15-16.

Why is the disciple Mark a good example for young brothers?

Mark willingly accepted an assignment to serve. Even though he was likely hurt and disappointed over a situation, Mark did not quit. He cultivated his relationship with Paul and other mature ones.​—w25.04, p. 27.

What did Jesus mean when he prayed: “I have made your name known to them”? (John 17:26)

His disciples already knew God’s name. But Jesus made known to them the Person behind the name, including His purposes, activities, and qualities.​—w25.05, pp. 20-21.

If we are modest, what do we recognize?

We recognize that we do not know some things. For example, we do not know when the end will come or how Jehovah may act at that time. Nor do we know what will happen tomorrow or how well Jehovah knows us.​—w25.06, pp. 15-18.

What can help us benefit from an article or a public talk?

We can ask ourselves: ‘What evidence is being used to convince the audience? Is there an effective illustration that I can use when teaching? Who might be interested in this topic?’​—w25.07, p. 19.

What can we learn about God’s forgiveness from how he dealt with David?

Though David committed grave sins, when he sincerely repented, Jehovah forgave him. (1 Ki. 9:4, 5) Once God forgives, he does not hold a past error against the sinner or bring it up in the future.​—w25.08, p. 17.

If a Bible student struggles with a point, what can you do?

If he still struggles with a point after you have tried to teach it well from the Bible, move past it and plan to return to it later.​—w25.09, p. 24.

The Bible says that sin has “deceptive power.” (Heb. 3:13) How so?

Sin can entice us to commit wrong acts. It can also deceive us into having persistent doubts, such as whether God really loves us.​—w25.10, p. 16.

What are three things that can make our personal prayers more meaningful?

(1) We can reflect on Jehovah’s qualities. (2) We can think about what we are dealing with and mention it, such as our need to forgive someone. (3) We can linger in prayer. This will more likely allow us to express our inner thoughts.​—w25.10, pp. 19-20.

How can we help older ones?

We can visit or call those who are older. We may also be able to accompany them to medical appointments. Or we can work with older ones in different forms of the ministry.​—w25.11, pp. 6-7.

What are key aspects of an honorable Christian wedding?

Comply with any relevant legal requirements. Ensure that the atmosphere of the ceremony and reception reflects the fruitage of God’s spirit. Be modest in your attire, and be sure to avoid unscriptural customs. Communicate well while planning the wedding.​—w25.12, pp. 21-24.

Read Numbers 13:25–14:4 to see how the Israelites lacked trust in Jehovah.

Analyze the context. Why should the Israelites have had confidence in Jehovah’s ability to save them as they left Egypt? (Ps. 78:12-16, 43-53) What led to their losing trust in Jehovah? (Deut. 1:26-28) What kind of trust in Jehovah did Joshua and Caleb manifest?​—Num. 14:6-9.

Dig deeper. What could the Israelites have done to increase their confidence in Jehovah? (Ps. 9:10; 22:4; 78:11) What is the connection between trusting in Jehovah and respecting him?​—Num. 14:11.

Identify the lessons. Ask yourself:

• ‘What situations could test my complete trust in Jehovah?’

• ‘How can I strengthen my confidence in Jehovah now and in the future?’

• ‘What confidence do I have as the great tribulation approaches?’​—Luke 21:25-28.