In line with your wholehearted dedication to God, you want to imitate Jesus to the best of your ability. This involves continuing to work at putting away the old personality and putting on the new. (Eph. 4:20-23) When you come to respect a friend, you likely try to learn from his example and good qualities. Likewise, you want to learn from Christ and imitate him. You also need to respect the way Jesus directs those dedicated to Jehovah. Christ is using imperfect humans in the local congregation, particularly the spiritually older men, the appointed elders. The provision of having such men appointed is “with a view to the readjustment of the holy ones, . . . for the building up of the body of the Christ.” (Eph. 4:11, 12) Even if an imperfect human makes a mistake, Jesus as King of the heavenly Kingdom is able to handle the matter in his time and way. Do you believe that? _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
You people will again certainly see the distinction between a righteous one and a wicked one, between one serving God and one who has not served him.—Malachi. 3:18.
As you reflect on those words, ask yourself: ‘Do I blend in with the world, or do I stand out as different? Do I always strive to fit in with my secular associates, whether at school or at work, or do I remain firm for Bible principles, even speaking up when appropriate?’ (1 Pet. 3:16) Of course, we do not want to appear self-righteous, but we should stand out as different from those who do not love and serve Jehovah. If you see room for improvement, why not pray about the matter and seek spiritual strength through regular Bible study, prayer, and meeting attendance? The more God’s Word becomes a part of you, the more you will produce “fine fruit,” including “the fruit of lips which make public declaration to [God’s] name.”—Matt. 7:17; Heb. 13:15. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
Rejoice in the hope. Endure under tribulation. Persevere in prayer.—Romans 12:12.
Romans chapter 12 gives us abundant counsel on how we should react to opposition. We should not retaliate in kind. We should try to overcome opposition with acts of kindness. To the extent possible, without violating Bible principles, we should endeavor to live peaceably with all men. Even when faced with outright hostility, we do our best to conquer evil with good, remembering that vengeance belongs to Jehovah. In addition to all this wise, practical counsel, Paul gives three admonitions. Since we could never do all these things without Jehovah’s help, the apostle advises us to “persevere in prayer.” This will enable us to follow his further counsel to “endure under tribulation.” Finally, we need to keep our minds fixed on the future that Jehovah holds in store for us and to “rejoice in the hope” of everlasting life, be it in heaven or on earth. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
The fear-inspiring and wonderful way in which we are made bears witness to God’s love. Jehovah also lovingly provided humans with a beautiful home containing everything necessary for their happiness. (Gen. 1:29-31; 2:8, 9; Ps. 139:14-16) But once wickedness was introduced into the human family, Jehovah expressed his love in new ways. How? The apostle John quotes Jesus as saying: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) Could God have shown his love for mankind in a more remarkable way than by sending his only-begotten Son to earth in order to ransom sinners? (John 15:13) This great demonstration of love also served as a pattern for humans, giving them the opportunity to reflect God’s self-sacrificing love in everyday life, even as Jesus did.—John 17:25, 26 _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
There arose no little disturbance concerning The Way.—Acts 19:23.
The early disciples of Christ belonged to “The Way.” (Acts 9:2) This expression was fitting because those who became followers of Christ adhered to a manner of life that centered on faith in Jesus Christ and on imitating his example. (1 Pet. 2:21) The disciple-making work has sped up in these last days and is now being done in over 230 lands. During the past ten years, more than 2,700,000 people have made the decision to serve Jehovah and be baptized in symbol of their dedication to him. That is an average of over 5,000 individuals every week! The decision to be baptized is based on love for God, knowledge of the Scriptures, and faith in what they teach. Baptism is a milestone in our life, for it marks the beginning of an intimate relationship with Jehovah. It is also a demonstration of confidence that he will help us to serve him faithfully.—Isa. 30:21. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
Come to me, . . . and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart.—Matthew 11:28, 29.
You may have wondered if you will be able to do what Jehovah expects of you. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of being a servant of God, living by his law, and speaking in his name. For example, Moses felt inadequate when he was sent to speak to the Israelites and to the king of Egypt. But God was not unreasonable in what he expected of Moses. Jehovah ‘taught him what to do.’ (Ex. 3:11; 4:1, 10, 13-15) Since Moses accepted the help offered, he experienced the joy of accomplishing God’s will. Jehovah is just as reasonable in what he expects of us. He understands our imperfect nature, and he wants to help us. (Ps. 103:14) Serving God as a follower of Jesus is refreshing rather than overwhelming because such a life course benefits others and makes Jehovah’s heart glad. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
Come to me, . . . and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart.—Matthew 11:28, 29.
You may have wondered if you will be able to do what Jehovah expects of you. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of being a servant of God, living by his law, and speaking in his name. For example, Moses felt inadequate when he was sent to speak to the Israelites and to the king of Egypt. But God was not unreasonable in what he expected of Moses. Jehovah ‘taught him what to do.’ (Ex. 3:11; 4:1, 10, 13-15) Since Moses accepted the help offered, he experienced the joy of accomplishing God’s will. Jehovah is just as reasonable in what he expects of us. He understands our imperfect nature, and he wants to help us. (Ps. 103:14) Serving God as a follower of Jesus is refreshing rather than overwhelming because such a life course benefits others and makes Jehovah’s heart glad. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
Humble yourselves in the eyes of Jehovah, and he will exalt you.—James 4:10.
The Bible contains excellent counsel on resolving conflicts. (Matt. 5:23, 24; 18:15-17; Eph. 4:26, 27) Unless we humbly apply that counsel, however, making peace will be difficult. Waiting for the other person to show humility is not the solution when we too are holding the key of humility in our hand. If our initial attempts to make peace seem unfruitful for some reason, we should not give up hope. The other person may need time to sort out his feelings. Joseph’s brothers dealt treacherously with Joseph. It was a long time before they faced him as prime minister of Egypt. Finally, however, they had a change of heart and begged for forgiveness. Joseph pardoned them, and Jacob’s sons became a nation that had the privilege of bearing the name of Jehovah. (Gen. 50:15-21) By maintaining peace with our brothers and sisters, we contribute to the unity and joy of the congregation.—Col. 3:12-14. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
And Peter opened his mouth and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is acceptable to him. Acts 10:34-35 [American Standard Version; ASV]
Jesus (Yeshua) Christ is no respecter of race or nationality, but accepts all people earnestly following him as clearly shown by James 2:1-4, “My brethren, hold not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. 2 For if there come into your synagogue a man with a gold ring, in fine clothing, and there come in also a poor man in vile clothing; 3 and ye have regard to him that weareth the fine clothing, and say, Sit thou here in a good place; and ye say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit under my footstool; 4 do ye not make distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts?” Clearly showing that we should not draw a distinction between rich or poor or between nationalities and/or races. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
And Peter opened his mouth and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is acceptable to him. Acts 10:34-35 [American Standard Version; ASV]
Jesus (Yeshua) Christ is no respecter of race or nationality, but accepts all people earnestly following him as clearly shown by James 2:1-4, “My brethren, hold not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. 2 For if there come into your synagogue a man with a gold ring, in fine clothing, and there come in also a poor man in vile clothing; 3 and ye have regard to him that weareth the fine clothing, and say, Sit thou here in a good place; and ye say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit under my footstool; 4 do ye not make distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts?” Clearly showing that we should not draw a distinction between rich or poor or between nationalities and/or races. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
And Peter opened his mouth and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is acceptable to him. Acts 10:34-35 [American Standard Version; ASV]
Jesus (Yeshua) Christ is no respecter of race or nationality, but accepts all people earnestly following him as clearly shown by James 2:1-4, “My brethren, hold not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. 2 For if there come into your synagogue a man with a gold ring, in fine clothing, and there come in also a poor man in vile clothing; 3 and ye have regard to him that weareth the fine clothing, and say, Sit thou here in a good place; and ye say to the poor man, Stand thou there, or sit under my footstool; 4 do ye not make distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts?” Clearly showing that we should not draw a distinction between rich or poor or between nationalities and/or races. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive, for they are keeping watch over your souls as those who will render an account; that they may do this with joy and not with sighing, for this would be damaging to you.—Hebrews 13:17.
A way that all of us can prove that we are friends of Christ is by cooperating with the direction provided by congregation elders. These men are appointed by holy spirit under Christ’s direction. (Eph. 5:23) At times, we may find it a challenge to obey the Bible-based direction given to us by the local elders. We are likely aware of their imperfections, and this may distort our view of their counsel. Still, Christ, the Head of the congregation, is pleased to use these imperfect men. Therefore, the way we react to their authority directly influences our friendship with Christ. When we overlook the faults of the elders and joyfully follow their direction, we prove our love for Christ. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (Colossians 2:8)
Today there are many who try and mislead with their vain philosophy such as atheism, but we should be on guard against being mislead by men and their traditions. Instead we should follow Jesus (Yeshua) who is Almighty God (YHWH) son and gain everlasting life.
You know that life offers many attractions—vacations in fascinating places, interesting reading or research, pleasant company, beautiful music. And there are other activities that bring satisfaction great and small. Those with a deep faith in God, and particularly in the God of the Bible, Jehovah, have more reasons to love life. True faith is a source of strength and serenity that can help people to deal with difficult times. Believers in the true God can confidently say: “Jehovah is my helper; I will not be afraid.” (Hebrews 13:6) People acquainted with God’s love feel loved by him. They respond to his love, drawing deep joy from it. (1 John 4:7, 8, 16) They can lead an active and altruistic life that is a source of satisfaction. It is just as Jesus Christ said: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.”—Acts 20:35.
Sadly, there is another side to the present life. There are widespread suffering, injustice, poverty, sickness, and death—to mention just some of the painful features that often make life barely tolerable. The rich, powerful, and wise King Solomon of the ancient nation of Israel lacked none of the resources that can make people happy. Yet, there was something that troubled him—the realization that at death he would have to leave to someone else all that ‘his hard work,’ performed “with wisdom and with knowledge and with proficiency,” had procured for him.—Ecclesiastes 2:17-21.
Like Solomon, most are aware of the brevity of life, which slips by all too rapidly. The Scriptures say that God ‘has put eternity into our minds.’ (Ecclesiastes 3:11, Byington) This sense of eternity moves man to ponder life’s brevity. In the long run, without finding convincing answers to the meaning of life and death, one can become burdened with feelings of pessimism and futility. This can make life sad. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
If you, although being wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking him!—Luke 11:13.
The most direct way to receive God’s holy spirit is to ask for it. Indeed, we should constantly pray for holy spirit. If certain aspects of the ministry—doing street witnessing, preaching informally, or working business territory—intimidate us, we can pray to Jehovah for his spirit and ask him to help us muster up the needed boldness. (1 Thess. 5:17) That is what a Christian woman named Rosa did. When a fellow worker, disturbed by a report on mistreated children, cried out, “What is this world coming to?” Rosa could not pass up such an opportunity to give a witness. What did she do to get the courage to speak up? “I prayed to Jehovah and asked for his spirit to help me,” says Rosa. She was able to give a fine witness and make a follow-up arrangement. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
If you, although being wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more so will the Father in heaven give holy spirit to those asking him!—Luke 11:13.
The most direct way to receive God’s holy spirit is to ask for it. Indeed, we should constantly pray for holy spirit. If certain aspects of the ministry—doing street witnessing, preaching informally, or working business territory—intimidate us, we can pray to Jehovah for his spirit and ask him to help us muster up the needed boldness. (1 Thess. 5:17) That is what a Christian woman named Rosa did. When a fellow worker, disturbed by a report on mistreated children, cried out, “What is this world coming to?” Rosa could not pass up such an opportunity to give a witness. What did she do to get the courage to speak up? “I prayed to Jehovah and asked for his spirit to help me,” says Rosa. She was able to give a fine witness and make a follow-up arrangement. _________________ Francis David said it long ago, "Neither the sword of popes...nor the image of death will halt the march of truth."Francis David, 1579, written on the wall of his prison cell." Read the book, "What Does The Bible Really Teach" and the Bible today!
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