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

1-2. In what way is mankind’s situation like that of the young man mentioned in paragraph 1?

IMAGINE a young man who has been brought up in a wealthy family. One day tragedy strikes; his parents are killed in an accident. The news is devastating to him. However, another shock awaits this young man. He learns that his parents squandered the family fortune and that they acquired huge debts. Now imagine that instead of inheriting their wealth, he inherits their debts, and creditors are demanding payment. The debt is far beyond his ability ever to repay.

² In some ways, our situation is like that of this young man. Our original parents, Adam and Eve, were perfect and lived in a beautiful paradise. (Gen. 1:27; 2:7-9) They had the prospect of enjoying a rich, endless life. But then everything changed. They lost their Paradise home as well as their prospect of everlasting life. What inheritance could they pass on to their future children? The Bible tells us: “Through one man [Adam] sin entered into the world and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because they had all sinned.” (Rom. 5:12) The inheritance Adam passed on to us is sin, resulting in death. This inherited sin is like a huge debt, one that none of us can pay off.​—Ps. 49:8.

3. Why can our sins be likened to “debts”?

³ Jesus likened sins to “debts.” (Matt. 6:12; Luke 11:4) When we sin, it is as if we incur a debt to Jehovah. We have to pay the penalty for the sin. Should this debt be left unpaid, it would be canceled only when we die.​—Rom. 6:7, 23.

4. (a) Without help, what would happen to all sinners? (Psalm 49:7-9) (b) To what does the word “sin” refer in the Bible? (See the box “Sin.”)

⁴ Is it possible for us to regain all that Adam and Eve lost? Not on our own merits. (Read Psalm 49:7-9.) Without help, we would have no hope for a future life or a resurrection. In fact, our death would be just like that of animals.​—Eccl. 3:19; 2 Pet. 2:12.

5. How has our loving Father helped us with our inherited debt of sin? (See picture.)

⁵ Thinking back to the young man mentioned at the outset, how would he feel if a wealthy man offered to pay off all his debts? No doubt, the young man would be moved by deep appreciation to accept that generous offer. In a similar way, our loving Father, Jehovah, has given us a gift that pays for the debt of sin that we have inherited from Adam. Jesus explained it this way: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) Additionally, this same gift allows us the possibility of establishing a good relationship with Jehovah.

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6. What Bible terms will we consider in this article, and why?

⁶ How can we benefit from this amazing gift and have our sins, or “debts,” forgiven? The answer to that question is found in the Bible’s use of such terms as reconciliation, atonement, propitiation, ransom, redemption, and being declared righteous. In this article, we will discuss the meaning of each of these concepts. As we meditate on these explanations, our appreciation for the basis of Jehovah’s forgiveness will grow.

THE GOAL: RECONCILIATION

7. (a) What else did Adam and Eve lose? (b) As descendants of Adam and Eve, what do we desperately need? (Romans 5:10, 11)

⁷ In addition to losing the prospect of everlasting life, Adam and Eve lost their precious relationship with their Father, Jehovah. Originally, Adam and Eve were part of God’s family. (Luke 3:38) But when they disobeyed Jehovah, they were expelled from his family before they started to have children. (Gen. 3:23, 24; 4:1) As their descendants, we therefore need to be reconciled to Jehovah. (Read Romans 5:10, 11.) In other words, we need to develop a good relationship with him. According to one reference work, the Greek word used here for “reconcile” can mean to “make a friend out of an enemy.” Amazingly, Jehovah is the one who took the initiative to make this possible. How?

THE ARRANGEMENT: ATONEMENT

8. What is (a) atonement? (b) propitiation?

⁸ Atonement is the arrangement Jehovah put in place for restoring a good relationship between him and sinful humans. It involves exchanging one thing for another of equal value. In this way, something that is lost or destroyed can be regained or replaced. The Christian Greek Scriptures use a related term that is similar in meaning to “atonement,” propitiation. (Rom. 3:25) Propitiation is the act that allows one to be at peace with God and to have a good relationship with him.

9. What temporary arrangement did Jehovah make so that the sins of the Israelites could be forgiven?

⁹ To enable the Israelites to enjoy a good relationship with him, Jehovah instituted a temporary arrangement for the forgiveness of their sins. In Israel, Atonement Day was observed annually. On that day, the high priest would offer animal sacrifices on behalf of the people. Of course, animal sacrifices could not completely atone for anyone’s sins because animals are inferior to humans. But as long as the repentant Israelites offered the sacrifices that Jehovah required, he was willing to forgive their sins. (Heb. 10:1-4) In addition, that arrangement and their regular sin offerings impressed on the minds of the Israelites the seriousness of their sinful state and their great need for a permanent solution.

10. What permanent arrangement did Jehovah make for the forgiveness of sins?

¹⁰ Jehovah had a permanent arrangement in mind for the forgiveness of sins. He arranged for his beloved Son to be “offered once for all time to bear the sins of many.” (Heb. 9:28) Jesus gave “his life as a ransom in exchange for many.” (Matt. 20:28) What is a ransom?

THE PRICE: THE RANSOM

11. (a) According to the Bible, what is a ransom? (b) What would be needed for this ransom to be paid?

¹¹ According to the Bible, a ransom is the price paid to bring about atonement and reconciliation.a From Jehovah’s standpoint, it provides the basis to restore what was lost. In what way? Remember, Adam and Eve lost their perfect life along with the prospect of living forever. So the ransom would need to be a price of equal value to what was lost. (1 Tim. 2:6) It could be paid only by an adult man who (1) was perfect; (2) had the potential of living forever on earth; and (3) was willing to give up, or to sacrifice, that life for us. Only then could the life of that person replace, or atone for, the life that was lost.

12. Why was Jesus able to provide the necessary ransom price?

¹² Consider three reasons why Jesus was able to pay that ransom price. (1) He was perfect​—“he committed no sin.” (1 Pet. 2:22) (2) Because of that, he had the potential of living forever on earth. (3) He was willing to die and give up that life for us. (Heb. 10:9, 10) As a perfect man, Jesus was the equal of the first man, Adam, before he sinned. (1 Cor. 15:45) So by Jesus’ death, he was able to atone for Adam’s sin, that is, to replace what Adam had lost. (Rom. 5:19) Jesus thus became “the last Adam.” There is no need for another perfect person to come and pay for what Adam lost. Jesus died “once for all time.”​—Heb. 7:27; 10:12.

13. What is the difference between the atonement arrangement and the ransom?

¹³ What, then, is the difference between the atonement arrangement and the ransom? The atonement arrangement is the action God takes to restore a good relationship between him and mankind. The ransom is the price paid to make atonement possible for sinful mankind. This price is represented by Jesus’ precious blood poured out in our behalf.​—Eph. 1:7; Heb. 9:14.

THE RESULTS: REDEMPTION AND BEING DECLARED RIGHTEOUS

14. What will we now consider, and why?

¹⁴ What are the results of the atonement arrangement? The Bible uses several expressions to highlight the benefits. Although the meanings of these words overlap, each word emphasizes a certain aspect of the atonement arrangement that opens the way for Jehovah’s forgiveness. As we analyze these words, we will also see how they affect us personally.

15-16. (a) In the Bible, to what does the word “redemption” refer? (b) How does this affect us?

¹⁵ In the Bible, redemption refers to the releasing, or acquittal, that results because of the payment of the ransom. The apostle Peter expressed it this way: “You know that it was not with corruptible things, with silver or gold, that you were set free [lit., “you were ransomed; you were redeemed”] from your futile way of life handed down to you by your forefathers. But it was with precious blood, like that of an unblemished and spotless lamb, that of Christ.”​—1 Pet. 1:18, 19; ftn.

¹⁶ Because of the ransom sacrifice, we can be set free from the oppressive rule of sin and death. (Rom. 5:21) Certainly, we have good reason to feel deeply indebted to Jehovah and Jesus for the redemption that comes from the precious blood, or life, of Jesus.​—1 Cor. 15:22.

17-18. (a) What does being declared righteous mean? (b) How does this affect us?

¹⁷ Being declared righteous means that the charges against us have been dropped and that our record has been expunged, or wiped clean. By doing this, Jehovah does not violate his own standards of justice. He does not declare us righteous on our own merit; nor does he condone our sins. But because of our faith in the atonement arrangement and the ransom price that was paid, Jehovah has a basis for canceling our debts.​—Rom. 3:24; Gal. 2:16.

¹⁸ What does this mean for each of us? Those who have been selected to rule with Jesus in heaven have already been declared righteous as children of God. (Titus 3:7; 1 John 3:1) Their sins have been forgiven. They no longer have, as it were, a criminal record, and thus they qualify to be in the Kingdom. (Rom. 8:1, 2, 30) Those who have an earthly hope have been declared righteous as friends of God, and their sins are forgiven. (Jas. 2:21-23) The great crowd, who will survive Armageddon, have the prospect of never dying at all. (John 11:26) “The righteous” and “the unrighteous” who are sleeping in death are in line to be resurrected. (Acts 24:15; John 5:28, 29) Eventually, all obedient servants of Jehovah on earth will “have the glorious freedom of the children of God.” (Rom. 8:21) What an amazing blessing comes from the atonement arrangement​—total reconciliation with our Father, Jehovah!

19. How has our situation changed for the better? (See also the box “What It Means for Us.”)

¹⁹ Truly, our situation was once like that of the young man mentioned earlier who lost everything and inherited a huge debt he could never repay. But thanks to Jehovah, we have help. Our situation has changed because of the atonement arrangement and the payment of the ransom. Our faith in Jesus Christ allows us to be redeemed, or set free, from sin and death. Our sins can also be canceled, and our criminal record, erased. Most important of all, though, we can now have a good relationship with our loving heavenly Father, Jehovah.

20. What will we discuss in the next article?

²⁰ As we meditate on what Jehovah and Jesus have done for us, our heart is filled with appreciation. (2 Cor. 5:15) Without their help, we would have no hope at all! But what does Jehovah’s forgiveness really mean for us individually? That is what we will discuss in the next article.

1. Why is the forgiveness humans extend often complicated?

“I FORGIVE YOU.” How refreshing those words can be, especially if you know that you said or did something that hurt someone! But what does the phrase “I forgive you” really mean? Is the person you hurt saying that your friendship has been fully restored? Or does he simply mean that he does not want to talk about the issue anymore? The forgiveness humans extend can be complicated.

2. How has Jehovah’s forgiveness been described in the Scriptures? (See also footnote.)

² The way Jehovah forgives us imperfect humans is very different from the way we forgive one another. The forgiveness Jehovah extends is unique. The psalmist said of Jehovah: “With you there is true forgiveness, so that you may be held in awe.”a (Ps. 130:4) Yes, Jehovah’s forgiveness is “true forgiveness.” He sets the ultimate standard of what forgiveness really means. In some cases, Bible writers used a Hebrew word for forgiveness that is never used to describe human forgiveness.

3. How is Jehovah’s forgiveness different from ours? (Isaiah 55:6, 7)

³ When Jehovah forgives someone, that person’s sin is wiped out. The damaged relationship is entirely restored. Jehovah’s forgiveness is amazingly complete and generous.​—Read Isaiah 55:6, 7.

4. How does Jehovah help us to understand the true meaning of forgiveness?

⁴ If Jehovah’s forgiveness differs from ours, how can we as imperfect humans possibly understand its true meaning? Jehovah helps us by using vivid word pictures to describe his forgiveness. In this article, we will examine some of them. They will show us how Jehovah removes sin and, at the same time, restores the relationship that has been damaged by sin. As we review these illustrations, we will deepen our appreciation for our tender Father, who expresses his forgiveness in so many ways.

JEHOVAH REMOVES SIN

5. What happens when Jehovah pardons our sins?

⁵ In the Bible, sins are often likened to heavy burdens. King David described his own sins this way: “My errors loom over my head; like a heavy burden, they are too much for me to bear.” (Ps. 38:4) But Jehovah pardons the sins of repentant wrongdoers. (Ps. 25:18; 32:5) The Hebrew expression translated “pardon” basically means to “lift up” or “carry.” We might think of Jehovah as a strong man who figuratively lifts the burden of sin off our shoulders and carries it away.

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6. How far off does Jehovah carry our sins?

⁶ Another word picture shows just how far away Jehovah carries our sins. Psalm 103:12 tells us: “As far off as the sunrise is from the sunset, so far off from us he has put our transgressions.” East is the farthest point from west. The two points never meet. In other words, Jehovah takes our sins as far away from us as we can imagine. What a reassuring way to describe his forgiveness!

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7. How does the Bible describe what Jehovah does with our sins? (Micah 7:18, 19)

⁷ Even though Jehovah figuratively takes our sins far away from us, does he keep holding on to them? No. King Hezekiah wrote of Jehovah: “You have thrown all my sins behind your back.” Or as the footnote puts it, “you have removed all my sins from your sight.” (Isa. 38:9, 17; ftn.) This word picture shows that Jehovah takes the sins of repentant ones and throws them out of view. This statement could also be rendered: “You have made [my sins] as if they had not happened.” The Bible further emphasizes this point in another word picture, recorded at Micah 7:18, 19. (Read.) There Jehovah is spoken of as throwing our sins into the depths of the sea. In ancient times, it would have been impossible for someone to retrieve an object that had been hurled into the depths of the sea.

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8. What have we learned so far?

⁸ By means of these word pictures, we have learned that when Jehovah forgives us, he relieves us of the burden of our sins. Truly, as David said, “happy are those whose lawless deeds have been pardoned and whose sins have been covered; happy is the man whose sin Jehovah will by no means take into account.” (Rom. 4:7, 8) That is true forgiveness!

JEHOVAH WIPES OUT SIN

9. What word pictures does Jehovah use to explain the extent of his forgiveness?

⁹ Jehovah uses other word pictures to help us appreciate how by means of the ransom sacrifice, he wipes out the sins of repentant ones. Figuratively, Jehovah is spoken of as washing and rinsing away these sins. This results in purifying the sinner. (Ps. 51:7; Isa. 4:4; Jer. 33:8) Jehovah himself describes the results of this process: “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be made as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson cloth, they will become like wool.” (Isa. 1:18) It is extremely difficult to remove scarlet or crimson stains from a cloth. Yet, by means of this word picture, Jehovah assures us that our sins can be washed clean so thoroughly that they are no longer visible.

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10. What other word picture does Jehovah use to illustrate the magnitude of his forgiveness?

¹⁰ As mentioned in the preceding article, sins are also likened to “debts.” (Matt. 6:12; Luke 11:4) So every time we sin against Jehovah, it is as if we are going further and further into debt. We owe him a huge amount! But when Jehovah forgives us, it is as if he cancels the debt that would otherwise be charged against our account. He does not demand repayment of sins that have been forgiven. What a refreshing illustration to describe the relief we feel when Jehovah forgives us!

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11. What does it mean when the Bible says that our sins are “blotted out”? (Acts 3:19)

¹¹ Jehovah does not simply cancel our debts, or sins; he blots them out. (Read Acts 3:19.) When a debt is canceled, we might imagine a large X being drawn across the account. However, the numbers beneath that X may still be legible. But to blot something out is different. To understand this word picture, we need to remember that in ancient times the ink used was a mixture that included carbon, gum, and water. A person could take a wet sponge and wipe the writing away. So when a debt was “blotted out,” it vanished completely. Traces of what was written before were not visible to the naked eye. The record became nonexistent. How it warms our heart to know that Jehovah not only cancels our sins but also blots them out completely!​—Ps. 51:9.

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12. What does the word picture involving a thick cloud mean for us?

¹² Jehovah uses a similar word picture to describe how he blots out sins. He declares: “I will blot out your transgressions as with a cloud and your sins as with a thick cloud.” (Isa. 44:22) When Jehovah forgives, it is as if he were using a thick cloud to hide our transgressions so that they disappear from sight altogether.

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13. When Jehovah forgives our sins, how do we feel?

¹³ What does this mean for us? When Jehovah forgives our sins, we should not feel that we will bear the stain of such sins for the rest of our life. By means of the blood of Jesus Christ, our debts are completely canceled. Even the record of those debts is no longer discernible. This is what the true forgiveness that comes from Jehovah means for us when we repent of our sins.

JEHOVAH RESTORES A GOOD RELATIONSHIP

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14. Why can we trust Jehovah’s forgiveness? (See also pictures.)

¹⁴ The true forgiveness that comes from Jehovah allows us to have a good relationship with him. It helps us to avoid being overcome by feelings of guilt. We do not need to be afraid that Jehovah is secretly harboring resentment and is looking for a way to punish us. There is no threat of that happening. Why can we trust Jehovah when he says that he forgives us? The prophet Jeremiah quotes Jehovah as saying: “I will forgive their error, and I will no longer remember their sin.” (Jer. 31:34) When referring to these words, the apostle Paul used a similar expression, saying: “I will no longer call their sins to mind.” (Heb. 8:12) But what does that really mean?

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15. In what sense does Jehovah no longer remember our sins?

¹⁵ In the Bible, the expression “remember” does not always refer to someone recalling something or thinking about it. Rather, it can involve someone taking action. The criminal hanging on the stake next to Jesus requested: “Jesus, remember me when you get into your Kingdom.” (Luke 23:42, 43) He was not simply asking Jesus to think about him at that time. Jesus’ response indicated that he would take action to resurrect this criminal. So, then, when Jehovah says that he no longer remembers our sins, he means that he will not take action against us. He will not punish us sometime in the future for sins that he has forgiven.

16. How does the Bible describe the freedom that comes from true forgiveness?

¹⁶ The Bible uses another word picture to help us understand the freedom that comes from true forgiveness. Because of our sinful nature and inclination, we are likened to “slaves of sin.” But thanks to Jehovah’s forgiveness, we are like slaves who have been “set free from sin.” (Rom. 6:17, 18; Rev. 1:5) Yes, Jehovah’s forgiveness gives us the exhilarating feeling of being set free from slavery.

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17. How does forgiveness result in healing? (Isaiah 53:5)

¹⁷ Read Isaiah 53:5. The final word picture we will discuss likens us to people who have a deadly disease. Because of the ransom sacrifice that Jehovah provided through his Son, we are figuratively spoken of as being healed. (1 Pet. 2:24) The ransom makes possible the full repair of our relationship with Jehovah, which has been damaged by spiritual sickness. Just as a person who has been healed of a serious illness feels intense joy, we too rejoice when we are healed spiritually and regain Jehovah’s favor as a result of his forgiveness.

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WHAT JEHOVAH’S FORGIVENESS MEANS FOR US

18. What have we learned by examining the various word pictures found in the Bible regarding Jehovah’s forgiveness? (See also the box “How Jehovah Forgives Us.”)

¹⁸ What have we learned by examining the word pictures found in the Bible regarding Jehovah’s forgiveness? When he forgives, he does so completely and permanently. This allows us to have a good relationship with our heavenly Father. At the same time, we remember that true forgiveness is a gift. It comes from Jehovah’s love and undeserved kindness, which he expresses to sinful mankind. It is not a right that humans can demand.​—Rom. 3:24.

19. (a) For what should we be grateful? (Romans 4:8) (b) What will we discuss in the next article?

¹⁹ Read Romans 4:8. How grateful each one of us should be that Jehovah is the God of “true forgiveness”! (Ps. 130:4) However, our being forgiven is dependent on something important. Jesus explained: “If you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matt. 6:14, 15) Obviously, then, it is vital for us to imitate Jehovah’s forgiveness. But how can we do that? Our next article will show us what this involves.

1-2. (a) When may we find it especially difficult to forgive someone? (b) How did Denise show forgiveness?

DO YOU find it difficult to forgive others? Many of us do, especially when someone says or does something that hurts us deeply. However, we can overcome our hurt feelings and be forgiving. For example, consider the experience of a sister named Denise,a who showed extraordinary forgiveness. In 2017, Denise and her family had just visited the newly opened World Headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses. While they were on their way home, another driver lost control of his car and hit their vehicle. Denise lost consciousness in the accident. When she woke up, she learned that her children were badly injured and that her husband, Brian, had been killed. Reflecting on that moment, Denise says, “I felt broken and confused.” Later, she learned that the driver had not been impaired or distracted, and she prayed to Jehovah for peace.

² The driver who hit them was charged with manslaughter. If convicted, he could be imprisoned. However, the court informed Denise that the outcome of the man’s sentencing depended on her testimony. Denise says: “I felt as if somebody had cut open my stitches and dumped a gallon of salt in my wound, as I had to relive the worst moments of my life.” Just a few weeks later, Denise sat in a courtroom and prepared to address the man who had caused her family so much pain. What did she say? Denise asked the judge to show mercy to the man.b When she finished speaking, the judge broke down in tears. He said: “In all my 25 years as a judge, I have never heard anything like this in my courtroom. I never hear the victim’s family plead for mercy in behalf of the defendant. I never hear words of love and forgiveness.”

3. What moved Denise to forgive?

³ What helped Denise to be forgiving? She meditated on Jehovah’s forgiveness. (Mic. 7:18) When we appreciate the forgiveness that Jehovah has shown us, we will be motivated to be forgiving toward others.

4. What does Jehovah want us to do? (Ephesians 4:32)

⁴ Jehovah wants us to forgive others just as freely as he has forgiven us. (Read Ephesians 4:32.) He expects us to be ready to forgive those who hurt us. (Ps. 86:5; Luke 17:4) In this article, we will consider three things that will help us to be more forgiving.

DO NOT IGNORE YOUR FEELINGS

5. According to Proverbs 12:18, how might we feel when someone offends us?

⁵ We may be deeply hurt because of what someone says or does to us, especially if that person is a close friend or family member. (Ps. 55:12-14) At times, the emotional pain we suffer can be likened to being stabbed. (Read Proverbs 12:18.) We may try to suppress or ignore our hurt feelings. But doing so might be like getting stabbed and then leaving the knife in the wound. Similarly, we cannot expect our hurt feelings to get better if we simply ignore them.

6. How may we react when someone offends us?

⁶ When someone offends us, our initial reaction may be to get angry. The Bible acknowledges that we may become wrathful. However, it warns against allowing that emotion to dominate us. (Ps. 4:4; Eph. 4:26) Why? Because our emotions often lead to actions. And anger seldom leads to good results. (Jas. 1:20) Remember, getting angry is a reaction, but remaining angry is a choice.

7. What other feelings might we experience when someone hurts us?

⁷ When we have been treated badly, we might feel other painful emotions. For example, a sister named Ann says: “When I was a child, my dad left my mom and married my nanny. I felt abandoned. When they had children, I felt replaced. I grew up feeling unwanted.” A sister named Georgette describes how she felt when her husband was unfaithful to her: “We had been friends since childhood. We were pioneer partners! My heart was broken.” And a sister named Naomi says: “I never imagined that my husband would hurt me. So when he confessed that he had been viewing pornography and hiding it from me, I felt deceived and betrayed.”

8. (a) What are some reasons why we should forgive others? (b) What benefits do we receive when we forgive? (See the box “What if We Have Been Traumatized by Someone?”)

⁸ We cannot control what others say or do to us, but we can try to control our response. And often the best response is to forgive. Why? Because we love Jehovah, and he wants us to be forgiving. If we remain angry and do not forgive, we are likely to act foolishly and perhaps suffer physically. (Prov. 14:17, 29, 30) Note the example of a sister named Christine. She says: “When I am consumed by my hurt feelings, I smile less. I tend to make poor food choices. I don’t get enough sleep, and it’s more difficult to control my emotions, which in turn affects my marriage and my relationships with others.”

9. Why should we let go of resentment?

⁹ Even if the person who hurt us never takes responsibility for his actions, we can lessen the damage he caused us. How? Georgette, mentioned earlier, says: “It took some time, but I let go of my resentment and anger toward my ex-husband. As a result, I felt immense peace.” When we let go of resentment, we prevent our heart from becoming damaged by bitterness. We also give ourselves a gift​—we can start to move on and enjoy our life once again. (Prov. 11:17) But what if after acknowledging your feelings, you are still not ready to forgive?

DEALING WITH YOUR FEELINGS

10. Why should we allow ourselves time to heal emotionally? (See also pictures.)

¹⁰ How can you overcome hurt feelings? One way is by giving yourself time to heal. After receiving medical care, a person who has been severely injured needs time to heal physically. In a similar way, we may need time to heal emotionally before we are ready to forgive someone from the heart.​—Eccl. 3:3; 1 Pet. 1:22.

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11. How can prayer help you to be forgiving?

¹¹ Pray, asking Jehovah to help you to be forgiving.c Ann, mentioned earlier, explains how prayer helped her. She says: “I asked Jehovah to forgive each of us in the family for things we did not handle well. Then I wrote a letter to my dad and his new wife and told them that I forgave them.” Ann admits that doing so was not easy. But she says: “I hope that by my trying to imitate Jehovah’s forgiveness, my dad and his wife will be moved to learn more about Jehovah.”

12. Why should we trust Jehovah instead of our feelings? (Proverbs 3:5, 6)

¹² Trust Jehovah, not your feelings. (Read Proverbs 3:5, 6.) Jehovah always knows what is best for us. (Isa. 55:8, 9) And he will never ask us to do something that will harm us. Thus, when he encourages us to be forgiving, we can be confident that doing so will benefit us. (Ps. 40:4; Isa. 48:17, 18) On the other hand, if we trust our feelings, we may never be able to forgive. (Prov. 14:12; Jer. 17:9) Naomi, quoted earlier, says: “At first, I felt justified for not forgiving my husband for viewing pornography. I was afraid that he would hurt me again or that he would forget how much damage he caused. And I reasoned that Jehovah understood my feelings. But I began to realize that just because Jehovah understands my feelings, it does not mean that he agrees with them. He knows how I feel and that it takes time to heal, but he also wants me to be forgiving.”d

CREATE POSITIVE FEELINGS

13. According to Romans 12:18-21, what do we need to do?

¹³ When we forgive someone who hurt us deeply, we want to do more than simply decide not to talk about what happened. If the person who hurt us is also our Christian brother or sister, our goal is to make peace. (Matt. 5:23, 24) We choose to replace our anger with mercy and our resentment with forgiveness. (Read Romans 12:18-21; 1 Pet. 3:9) What can help us to do that?

14. What should we strive to do, and why?

¹⁴ We should strive to see the person who offended us as Jehovah does. Jehovah chooses to look for the good in people. (2 Chron. 16:9; Ps. 130:3) We will usually find what we are looking for in people​—be it the good or the bad. When we look for the good in others, we will find it easier to forgive them. For example, a brother named Jarrod says, “I find it easier to forgive a brother when I compare his offense to the long list of things that I like about him.”

15. Why may it be helpful to tell someone that you have forgiven him?

¹⁵ Another important thing to consider doing is to tell the person that you have forgiven him or her. Why? Note what Naomi, quoted earlier, says: “My husband asked me, ‘Have you forgiven me?’ When I opened my mouth to say, ‘I forgive you,’ I choked. I realized that I hadn’t truly forgiven him in my heart. In time, I was able to express those three powerful words, ‘I forgive you.’ I couldn’t believe the relief it brought to my teary-eyed husband and the closure that I felt. Since then, I have rebuilt my trust in him and we are best friends again.”

16. What have you learned about forgiveness?

¹⁶ Jehovah wants us to be forgiving. (Col. 3:13) Even so, we may struggle to forgive others. But we can do it if we do not ignore our feelings and make the effort to deal with them. Then we can create new, positive feelings.​—See the box “Three Steps to Forgiveness.”

FOCUS ON THE BENEFITS OF BEING FORGIVING

17. How does being forgiving benefit us?

¹⁷ We have many reasons to be forgiving. Consider just some of them. First, we imitate and please our merciful Father, Jehovah. (Luke 6:36) Second, we show gratitude for the forgiveness Jehovah has kindly extended to us. (Matt. 6:12) And third, we enjoy better health and keep our friendships strong.

18-19. What may result from our being forgiving?

¹⁸ When we forgive others, we may experience unexpected blessings. For example, note what happened to Denise, mentioned earlier. Although she did not know it at the time, the man who caused the accident planned to end his life after his trial. However, he was so moved by Denise’s forgiveness that he began studying the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses.

¹⁹ We may feel that forgiving someone is one of the hardest things we will ever have to do​—but it may also be one of the most rewarding. (Matt. 5:7) Therefore, may we all do our best to imitate Jehovah’s forgiveness.

MY PARENTS’ EXAMPLE

Father and Mother were devout Catholics. But when they learned from the Bible that God’s name is Jehovah, they both became zealous Jehovah’s Witnesses. Father stopped carving images of Jesus. Instead, he used his carpentry skills to convert the ground floor of our home into the first Kingdom Hall in San Juan del Monte, a suburb of Manila, the capital of the Philippines.

After I was born in 1952, my parents included me in the excellent spiritual education they had been providing to my four older brothers and three older sisters. As I grew up, my father encouraged me to read a chapter of the Bible every day, and he studied many different theocratic publications with me. Occasionally, my parents invited traveling overseers and representatives from the branch office to stay at our home. As a family, we drew great joy and encouragement from the experiences these brothers shared with us, which motivated us all to make the ministry a priority in our life.

My parents left me a legacy of faith. After my dear mother died from an illness, Father and I began pioneering together in 1971. But then in 1973 when I was 20 years old, my father died. Losing both my parents left me feeling empty and alone. But the “sure and firm” hope found in the Bible helped me to stay anchored and kept me emotionally and spiritually stable. (Heb. 6:19) Not long after my father’s death, I accepted a special pioneer assignment on the isolated island of Coron, in the province of Palawan.

ALONE DURING CHALLENGING ASSIGNMENTS

I was 21 when I arrived on Coron. As a city boy, I was surprised to discover an island with little electricity, running water, or motorized transportation. Although there were a few brothers, I had no pioneer partner and sometimes had to preach alone. For the first month, I missed my family and my friends terribly. At night, I would gaze at the starry sky as tears rolled down my face. I felt like quitting my assignment and returning home.

During those solitary moments, I would pour out my heart to Jehovah. I’d recall encouraging thoughts that I had read in the Bible and our publications. Psalm 19:14 often came to mind. I realized that Jehovah would be “my Rock and my Redeemer” if I meditated on things that pleased him, such as his activities and qualities. The Watchtower article entitled “You Are Never Alone”a was of great help to me. I read it again and again. In a sense, I was alone with Jehovah at such times, and that gave me precious opportunities to pray, study, and meditate.

Not long after arriving on Coron, I was appointed as an elder. As the only elder, I began conducting the weekly Theocratic Ministry School, Service Meeting, Congregation Book Study, and Watchtower Study. I also delivered the public talk every week. One thing was sure​—I no longer had time to feel lonely!

I enjoyed a productive ministry on Coron​—some of my Bible students eventually got baptized. But there were also challenges. Sometimes, I had to walk half a day to reach the territory, not knowing where I would sleep when I arrived. The congregation territory also included many smaller islands. I often traveled by motorboat through stormy seas to reach them, even though I did not know how to swim! Through all these challenges, Jehovah protected and sustained me. Later, I realized that Jehovah was preparing me for greater challenges in my next assignment.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

In 1978, I was assigned to Papua New Guinea, north of Australia. Papua New Guinea is a mountainous country, almost the size of Spain. I was amazed to discover that the population of about three million spoke over 800 languages. Fortunately, most people could speak Melanesian Pidgin, commonly called Tok Pisin.

I was temporarily assigned to an English congregation in the capital, Port Moresby. But then I moved to a Tok Pisin congregation and took a language class. I used what I was learning in class in the preaching work. This helped me to learn the language more quickly. Before long, I was able to deliver a public talk in Tok Pisin. Imagine my surprise when less than a year after I arrived in Papua New Guinea, I was assigned to serve as a circuit overseer for the Tok Pisin congregations in several vast provinces.

Because the congregations were far apart, I had to organize numerous circuit assemblies and do a lot of traveling. At first, I felt very isolated in unfamiliar surroundings​—a new country, a new language, and new customs. I could not travel between congregations by land because of the mountainous and rugged terrain. So I had to travel by airplane almost every week. Sometimes, I was the only passenger in a rickety single-engine plane. I found those trips to be as nerve-racking as traveling by boat!

Few people had telephones, so I communicated with the congregations by letter. Often, I arrived before my letters and had to ask around to locate the publishers. Each time I found the brothers, though, I was welcomed with such appreciation that I remembered why I was making all these efforts. I experienced Jehovah’s support in many ways, and my relationship with him grew immensely.

At my first meeting on a coastal island called Bougainville, a couple, all smiles, approached me and asked, “Do you remember us?” I recalled witnessing to this couple when I first arrived in Port Moresby. I had started a Bible study with them before turning them over to a local brother. They were now both baptized! This was one of the many blessings I received during my three years in Papua New Guinea.

A BUSY LITTLE FAMILY

Before leaving Coron in 1978, I came to know a charming, self-sacrificing sister called Adel. She was regular pioneering while raising her two children, Samuel and Shirley. At the same time, she looked after her elderly mother. In May 1981, I returned to the Philippines to marry Adel. After our marriage, we regular pioneered and cared for the family together.

Despite having a family, in 1983, I was reappointed as a special pioneer and assigned to Linapacan Island, in the province of Palawan. The whole family moved to this isolated place where there were no Witnesses. Adel’s mother passed away about a year later. However, we kept busy in the ministry, which sustained us through our loss. We started so many progressive Bible studies on Linapacan that before long we needed a small Kingdom Hall. So we built one ourselves. Just three years after our arrival, we were delighted to see 110 people attend the Memorial, many of whom progressed to baptism after we left.

In 1986, I was assigned to the island of Culion, where there was a colony of leprosy patients. After that, Adel was also appointed as a special pioneer. At first, we were nervous about preaching to people who were disfigured by leprosy. But the local publishers assured us that those who suffered from this illness had received treatment and that there was little risk of contagion. Some of these patients attended meetings in a sister’s home. We soon adapted and found it very rewarding to share our Bible hope with people who felt rejected by both God and mankind. It was delightful to see people who were seriously ill find joy in the prospect of one day having perfect health.​—Luke 5:12, 13.

How did our children adjust to life on Culion? Well, Adel and I invited two young sisters from Coron to join us so that our children could have some good association. Samuel, Shirley, and these two young sisters enjoyed a productive ministry of their own, studying with many children while Adel and I studied with the parents of these children. In fact, at one point we were studying with 11 families. Soon, we were conducting so many progressive Bible studies that we were able to form a new congregation!

At first, I was the only elder in the area. So the branch office asked me to conduct the weekly meetings for the eight publishers in Culion and then to do the same for the nine publishers in a village called Marily, which was a three-hour boat journey away. After meetings there, as a family, we walked through a mountainous region for many hours to conduct Bible studies in a village called Halsey.

Eventually, we saw such abundant harvests in Marily and in Halsey that we built Kingdom Halls in both locations. As on Linapacan, the brothers and interested ones provided most of the materials and labor. The hall in Marily could accommodate 200 people and was expandable, which allowed us to hold assemblies there.

GRIEF, LONELINESS, AND RENEWED JOY

In 1993 when the children were grown up, Adel and I began circuit work in the Philippines. Then in 2000, I attended the Ministerial Training School to be trained as an instructor for that school. I felt inadequate for the task, but Adel always encouraged me. She reminded me that Jehovah would give me the strength to carry out this new assignment. (Phil. 4:13) Adel spoke from experience because she was accomplishing her assignment while dealing with health problems.

In 2006 while I was instructing, Adel was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. We were shocked! When I proposed ending our assignment to care for her, Adel replied, “Please find a doctor who can help me with my sickness, and I know Jehovah will help us to carry on.” For the next six years, Adel continued in her service to Jehovah without complaining. When she could no longer walk, she preached from her wheelchair. When she could hardly talk, she answered in one or two words at meetings. Right up until her death in 2013, Adel regularly received messages of appreciation for her beautiful example of endurance. I had spent over 30 years with Adel, a faithful and loving companion, so when she fell asleep in death, I was once again overwhelmed with feelings of grief and loneliness.

Adel had wanted me to continue in my assignment, so I did. I kept myself busy, which helped me to cope with loneliness. From 2014 to 2017, I was assigned to visit Tagalog-speaking congregations in countries where the work was restricted. After that, I visited Tagalog congregations in Taiwan, the United States, and Canada. In 2019, I conducted English-language classes for the School for Kingdom Evangelizers in India and in Thailand. I have found great joy in all these assignments. I am the happiest when I am fully engrossed in Jehovah’s service.

HELP IS NEVER FAR OFF

In each new assignment, I have come to love the brothers and sisters I meet, so leaving them is never easy. At such times, I have learned to trust in Jehovah completely. I have regularly experienced his support, and this has helped me to accept wholeheartedly any changes that come along. Today, I am a special pioneer in the Philippines. I have settled into my new congregation, which has become a supportive and caring family. I am also proud to see Samuel and Shirley imitating their mother’s faith.​—3 John 4.

Yes, I have experienced many trials in my life, including watching my dear wife suffer and die from a debilitating illness. I have also had to adapt to many new circumstances. Yet, I have seen that Jehovah “is not far off from each one of us.” (Acts 17:27) Jehovah’s hand is “not too short” to support and strengthen his servants, even in isolated territories. (Isa. 59:1) Jehovah, my Rock, has been with me throughout my life, and I am so grateful to him. I was never alone.

HAVE you noticed that many people in the world feel that they are entitled to special privileges, rights, or treatment? No matter how much they get, they believe that they deserve more. This thinking is rooted in the selfish and unthankful attitudes that mark the last days.​—2 Tim. 3:2.

Of course, selfishness is not new. Adam and Eve decided to choose for themselves what was good and what was bad, with disastrous consequences. Centuries later, King Uzziah of Judah thought that he was entitled to present incense at the temple, but he was badly mistaken. (2 Chron. 26:18, 19) Similarly, the Pharisees and Sadducees believed that they deserved God’s special favor just because they descended from Abraham.​—Matt. 3:9.

We are surrounded by people who are selfish and egotistical, and their attitude could influence us. (Gal. 5:26) We might start to think that we deserve to receive a certain privilege or get special treatment. How can we avoid this way of thinking? To begin, we should get Jehovah’s view of the matter. Two Bible principles will help us.

Jehovah determines what we should receive. Consider some examples.

• In the family arrangement, a husband needs to feel respected by his wife and a wife needs to feel loved by her husband. (Eph. 5:33) Marriage mates should receive the exclusive romantic interest of their spouse. (1 Cor. 7:3) Parents rightly require the obedience of their children, and children should receive ample love and support from their parents.​—2 Cor. 12:14; Eph. 6:2.

• In the congregation, hardworking elders are worthy of our respect. (1 Thess. 5:12) However, they do not have a right to dominate their brothers and sisters.​—1 Pet. 5:2, 3.

• God has given human governments the right to demand taxes and to receive honor from their subjects.​—Rom. 13:1, 6, 7.

Jehovah lovingly gives us far more than we deserve. Because of our sinful nature, we deserve only to die. (Rom. 6:23) Yet, Jehovah grants us many blessings out of his loyal love for us. (Ps. 103:10, 11) Each blessing or privilege that we receive from him is by his undeserved kindness.​—Rom. 12:6-8; Eph. 2:8.

HOW TO AVOID DEVELOPING A SELFISH, EGOTISTICAL SPIRIT

Beware of the world’s attitude. Without realizing it, we might begin to think that we deserve more than others. Jesus showed how easily such thinking can arise by using the illustration of the workers who were paid a denarius. Some workers started early in the morning and worked all day under the hot sun; others worked for just one hour. The first group assumed that they were entitled to a higher wage because of the work they had done. (Matt. 20:1-16) In applying this illustration, Jesus showed that his followers should be satisfied with what God is pleased to provide.

Be thankful, not demanding. (1 Thess. 5:18) Imitate the apostle Paul, who did not ask for material support from the brothers in Corinth even though he had a right to do so. (1 Cor. 9:11-14) We should appreciate each blessing that we receive and avoid a demanding spirit.

Cultivate humility. When someone thinks too much of himself, he usually starts to feel that he is entitled to more than he has. Humility is the antidote to such poisonous thinking.

The prophet Daniel set a fine example in showing humility. His family background, good looks, intelligence, and abilities could have led him to feel that he deserved the special treatment and privileges he received. (Dan. 1:3, 4, 19, 20) However, Daniel remained humble, and this quality made him precious to Jehovah.​—Dan. 2:30; 10:11, 12.

Let us reject the selfish, egotistical spirit so prevalent in today’s world. Instead, may we continue to find joy in each blessing that Jehovah gives us through his undeserved kindness.

HAVE you ever felt that you had to face your problems alone? We are living in “critical times hard to deal with” that can make us feel discouraged and isolated. (2 Tim. 3:1) However, we do not have to deal with life’s challenges on our own. The Bible highlights the value of having true friends in “times of distress.”​—Prov. 17:17.

HOW TRUE FRIENDS CAN HELP

The apostle Paul benefited from the friendships that he had with his traveling companions. (Col. 4:7-11) When Paul was imprisoned in Rome, his friends performed tasks that Paul was unable to do himself. For example, Epaphroditus supplied Paul with needed items that the brothers and sisters in Philippi sent. (Phil. 4:18) Tychicus delivered Paul’s letters to different congregations. (Col. 4:7; see study note.) With the support of his friends, Paul carried out his ministry despite being under house arrest or being isolated in prison. How can you be a true friend today?

Modern-day examples show the value of being a true friend. Consider a sister who proved to be a friend for Elisabet, a regular pioneer in Spain. When her mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer, the sister sent Elisabet many encouraging text messages based on Bible verses. “These messages,” says Elisabet, “empowered me to face each day without feeling alone.”​—Prov. 18:24.

We can strengthen our friendships with fellow believers by supporting them in congregation activities. For example, could you offer to drive an elderly brother or sister to the meeting or out in the ministry? If you do, you will likely enjoy an interchange of encouragement. (Rom. 1:12) However, some Christians are unable to leave their home. How can we be a true friend to them?

BE A TRUE FRIEND TO THOSE WHO ARE HOUSEBOUND

Some fellow believers have health issues or other circumstances that prevent them from attending meetings in person. Consider the example of David, who was diagnosed with lymphoma. For over six months, he received chemotherapy. Throughout the treatment, David and his wife, Lidia, attended meetings virtually.

What support did they receive from their friends in the congregation? After each meeting, some of those at the Kingdom Hall would make an effort to talk to David and Lidia via videoconference. In addition, when David and Lidia gave comments, they later received encouraging text messages from fellow believers. The result? David and Lidia felt less isolated.

Could we include those who are housebound in our ministry? With some small adjustments, we can show that we have not forgotten those who face such limitations. (Prov. 3:27) Why not schedule some time with them to do letter writing or telephone witnessing? Those who are housebound may be able to tie in to meetings for field service by videoconference. David and Lidia appreciated this arrangement. David explains, “Just being with our preaching group for a brief discussion and prayer gave us a massive boost.” Further, if circumstances make it safe and fitting to do so, could you from time to time arrange to bring a Bible student to a housebound publisher’s home to conduct the study there?

When we work along with our housebound brothers and sisters and observe firsthand their endearing qualities, we draw closer to them. For instance, when you share in the ministry with such publishers and you take notice of how they skillfully use God’s Word to reach someone’s heart, you likely feel drawn to them even more. When you support fellow believers in spiritual activities, you may well enlarge your circle of friends.​—2 Cor. 6:13.

Paul found comfort in having his friend Titus with him. (2 Cor. 7:5-7) This account reminds us that we can provide comfort not only by expressing sympathy for those in need but also by being with them and doing what we can to support them.​—1 John 3:18.

BE A TRUE FRIEND DURING TIMES OF PERSECUTION

Our brothers and sisters in Russia have set a beautiful example in showing support for one another. Consider the experience of Sergey and his wife, Tatyana. After their home was searched by the police, they were taken for questioning. Tatyana was released first and returned home. Sergey relates: “As soon as [Tatyana] arrived home, one brave sister showed up at our door. More friends came and helped us with getting our apartment back in order.”

Sergey adds: “I have always liked Proverbs 17:17, where it says: ‘A true friend shows love at all times and is a brother who is born for times of distress.’ These words have taken on even greater meaning to me during this time of persecution when I am unable to cope on my own. Jehovah has provided friends who are fearlessly at my side.”a

As we face ever more difficult situations, we need friends to lean on. We will need them even more during the great tribulation. So let us make every effort to be a true friend now!​—1 Pet. 4:7, 8.

Mary and her husband, John,a live in a part of the world where the good news can be shared with many foreign workers from the Philippines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mary successfully started Bible studies not only in the country where she lives but also in other places in the world. How did she do it?

Mary would ask her Bible students, “Do you know anyone else who would like to study the Bible?” If they said yes, she would ask to be introduced to them. Asking this simple question often has good results. Why? Because people who appreciate God’s Word usually want to share what they learn with family members and friends they care about. What has been the result of asking this question?

Mary’s Bible student Jasmin introduced her to four new Bible students. One of them, Kristine, enjoyed her study sessions so much that she asked Mary to study with her twice a week. When Mary asked if she knew anyone else who wanted to study the Bible, Kristine said, “Yes, I will introduce my friends to you.” Within a few weeks, Kristine introduced Mary to four friends who wanted to study. Later, Kristine introduced her to other friends, some of whom repeated the process with still others.

Kristine also wanted her family in the Philippines to learn about the Bible. So she spoke to her daughter, Andrea. Initially, Andrea thought, ‘The Witnesses are a cult, they do not believe in Jesus, and they use only the Old Testament.’ But after just one study, her misconceptions cleared up. During her studies, she would exclaim, “As long as the Bible says so, it must be true!”

In time, Andrea introduced Mary to two friends and a workmate who started studying. Also, unknown to Mary, Andrea’s blind aunt, Angela, was listening in on their studies. Then one day, Angela asked Andrea to introduce her to Mary and requested her own Bible study. Angela loved what she was learning. Within a month, she memorized many scriptures and wanted to study four times a week! With Andrea’s help, Angela started to attend the meetings regularly via videoconferencing.

When Mary learned that Kristine’s husband, Joshua, was lingering in the background during Kristine’s studies, Mary asked him if he would like to join. Joshua remarked, “I will just listen, but don’t direct any questions to me; if you do, I will walk out.” Within the first five minutes of the study, he asked more questions than Kristine did and wanted to continue with the Bible discussions.

Mary’s simple question led to numerous Bible studies. With several of them, she made arrangements for the students to be helped by fellow Witnesses. In total, Mary started 28 Bible studies in four different countries.

Jasmin, the first student mentioned in this experience, got baptized in April 2021. Kristine got baptized in May 2022 and has returned to the Philippines to be with her family. Two other students who had been introduced to Mary by Kristine also got baptized. Angela got baptized a few months later and now serves as a regular pioneer. Kristine’s husband, Joshua, and their daughter, Andrea, as well as several other students are making good progress.

In the first century, the good news spread quickly between family members and friends. (John 1:41, 42a; Acts 10:24, 27, 48; 16:25-33) Why not ask your Bible students and other interested ones, “Do you know anyone else who would like to study the Bible?” Who knows how many studies could be started as a result of this simple question that anyone can ask?

Read Jeremiah 38:1-13 to learn about the courage shown by the prophet Jeremiah and the eunuch Ebed-melech.

Analyze the context. How did Jeremiah show courage in declaring Jehovah’s message? (Jer. 27:12-14; 28:15-17; 37:6-10) What reaction did that provoke?​—Jer. 37:15, 16.

Dig deeper. What pressure did Jeremiah face? (jr 26-27 ¶20-22) Find out what you can about ancient cisterns. (it-1 471) What emotions might Jeremiah have experienced while in the muddy cistern? What fears might Ebed-melech have had to overcome?​—w12 5/1 31 ¶2-3.

Identify the lessons. Ask yourself:

• ‘What does this account teach me about the way Jehovah protects his loyal servants?’ (Ps. 97:10; Jer. 39:15-18)

• ‘In what situations will I need to show courage?’

• ‘How can I strengthen my courage to do what is right when under pressure?’ (w11 3/1 30)a