Monday, May 22, 2023

May 22-28, 2023 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Have you experienced that you hold back on giving something to Jehovah? This week's meeting will encourage us to do more for Him. Yes, we do not need to give up all the comforts to please Jehovah. But we can examine ourselves if we could make additional sacrifices!

Amaziah would have known that Jehovah owns everything that He can return to us doubled! He can compensate us any financial loss that we had because of doing first His will. We should not doubt that. Many true-to-life experiences can prove this fact. And maybe you have felt this too recently, have you?

Here are some spiritual gems that I have dug this week from 2 Chronicles chapters 25-27:

2 Chronicles 25:14,16 shows that no other God is greater than Jehovah! Edom’s false gods could not save Amaziah or even great Petra itself when Jehovah, the living and true God, resolved to bring them to ruin. Today Petra is desolate; no one lives there. Few visitors pass through to see the ruins. In miniature fulfillment of Jehovah’s prophecy on Edom, typical Edom exists no more; and its mighty metropolis, Petra, is a haunt for wild animals. Its ruins remain as a monument to the fact that God’s words never fail: “I will make thee a perpetual desolation, and thy cities shall not be inhabited, and ye shall know that I am Jehovah.”—Ezek. 35:9, AS. We need to trust only Him!
2 Chronicles 26:16 is a reminder for us to remain humble. Even a person whose heart has been humble in service of God can become haughty because of gaining wealth or power or because of his beauty, success, wisdom, or the acclaim of others. King Uzziah of Judah was such a person. He ruled well and enjoyed Jehovah’s blessing for many years. (2Ch 26:3-5) But the Bible record states: “However, as soon as he was strong, his heart became haughty even to the point of causing ruin, so that he acted unfaithfully against Jehovah his God and came into the temple of Jehovah to burn incense upon the altar of incense.” (2Ch 26:16) Uzziah lifted himself by doing things he is not entitled to do. We must always acknowledge our limitations and respect the arrangements in the congregation.

What is yours? Share it in the comment section below. Be safe everyone.

August 1-7 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

We all commit mistakes, right? But the question is, do we learn from our mistakes? If we do, we will be considered wise people. But many suffered from haughtiness. Like Adonijah, he did not learn from his mistakes. His ambition for kingship leads him to death.

There is a saying that experience is the best teacher. But do we need to fall before learning? Isn't it enough to see those who suffered from stubbornness? Yes, let us learn from our mistakes and others' mistakes too.

This week's Bible highlights for me are the following:

1 Kings 1:6 imparts the importance of discipline to children. Yes, parents love their children but if discipline is needed they must be willing to do it. David failed to counsel Adonijah. He made the same mistake regarding one of his sons, for we read that he “did not hurt his feelings at any time by saying: ‘Why is this the way you have done?”’ And David also reaped waywardness from this son for his negligence in correcting him.
1 Kings 1:30 reminds us of the seriousness of offending God's name. This helps us to appreciate how serious a matter is the taking of Jehovah’s name upon oneself in a worthless way, by being called one of his people, as were the Israelites of old and as are the modern witnesses of Jehovah, and then not living up to what one claims to be, one of Jehovah’s witnesses. All who love Jehovah God with their whole heart, mind, soul, and strength will give his name the respect and reverence due it and will not take it up in any worthless way.

Every action we take will determine the depth of faith we have. Take care brothers and sisters. Be safe.

July 25-31 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Christians today do not make the literal sacrifices stipulated by the Mosaic Law; yet they do make sacrifices, in the sense that they use their time, energy, and resources to serve Jehovah. What kind of sacrifices have you made this time of pandemic? Whatever it is, it should be the manifestation of our sincere gratitude to Jehovah.

Like David and Araunah, we must give graciously.

How can we do it today? By offering our "sacrifices of praise"! Doing good to others and sharing messages of hope to people are ways of giving.

The gems that I've found in this week's reading are as follows:

2 Samuel 23:3 describes Jehovah as "the Rock of Israel". Just as a large rock is solidly placed, unmovable, so Jehovah God can be a solid Source of security for you.
2 Samuel 24:10 illustrate the function of our conscience. The Bible describes David’s reaction when he realized that he had sinned. Showing the operation of conscience, the Bible says that “David’s heart began to beat him.” But when he finally confessed his wrong to God and gained His pardon, David experienced relief and joy. His conscience was put at ease, made clean again. Like David, we must maintain a good and clean conscience before Jehovah. Hiding our sins can't help. We should take actions to straighten things out.

Please share in the comment section what have you learned. Thanks and be safe!

July 4-July 10 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Modesty is an important quality that we need to display. That is this week's topic. Barzillai is an example of that. He had different admirable qualities. But because of his modesty, he declines King David's offer to have a permanent place in the royal court. One reason is his advanced age. He knows his limitations. He is not ambitious.

What is the lesson for us? We must maintain balance when accepting responsibilities or privileges. If we can do it, then accept it. But we must be reasonable if adding more tasks would put other things in danger such as providing for our family.

Have you prepared some gems? These are mine:

2 Samuel 18:33 reminds us of the pain of losing someone we loved. David cried when Absalom died not as a King but as a father. Today, many have found grief so difficult to endure. The promise of resurrection can help those bereaved to survive the loneliness and emotional distress.
2 Samuel 19: 17, 26, 27 warns us about Ziba. He slandered Mephibosheth and was disloyal. He hoped of acquiring all property of Jonathan's son. He became a liar. We too must avoid greed and slandering others.

Let us be reminded always that Jehovah God loves those who are meek. Privilege is nice but what makes a good servant of Jehovah is the person within. Stay safe brothers!

June 27-July 3 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Pride is dangerous. We must not allow ambition to take root in our hearts. Absalom did. He rebelled because of his pride. He sought prestige and glory for himself which leads to his fall. We all have sinful tendencies to impress others. That is why we need to be sincere towards others' welfare not ours. Whatever privilege we had in the congregation, give all the praises to Jehovah.

For this week's Bible reading, these are some gems I found.

2 Samuel 15:12 warns us about having false friends like Ahithophel. He was David's counselor. He turned disloyal and lost love and exclusive devotion to Jehovah. The right kind of friend, then, should be one that encourages the Christian in being loyal to the Most High God. Only lovers of Jehovah can do this. Let us make friends with those who loyally love Jehovah.
2 Samuel 16:5-7 teaches us the importance of self-control. David was pressed to the limit. His people’s hearts had just been stolen from him. His son had turned traitor. His counselors had deserted him. He had lost his kingdom and now was being mocked and cursed! To be called a “good-for-nothing man” (“man of Belial” [Authorized Version]—a term that eventually was applied to the Devil) was the highest insult, for it meant a person of the lowest sort. But David never gave in to these. We should do the same thing when someone is provoking us to get angry.

Yes, we sometimes face different hardships in life. But may all of us be reminded that having a humble heart at all times brings blessings. May we keep that in our minds.

June 20-26 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Are you familiar with Amnon? He is one of David's sons who fell in love with his half-sister Tamar. Amnon becomes infatuated with Tamar and his sexual desires let him to uncontrolled behavior. Feigning illness, Amnon contrived to have Tamar sent to his quarters to cook for him, and then he forcibly violated her. This mistake of selfishness led to tragedy in his family. What have we learned? Showing self-control whether we are single or contemplating marriage, or we are married, is always the best option.

Here are some highlights of this week's Bible reading:

In 2 Samuel 13: 5-11, Amnon lustfully planned ahead of time how to satisfy his sexually excited flesh in an immoral way. May we be on guard not to be like him. Plan how to escape such immoral thoughts rather than giving ourselves into them.
2 Samuel 14:11 teaches us " Not a hair of your head will perish (or, fall)’ is a statement guaranteeing complete protection and safety. This motivates us to rely always on Jehovah God.

We have also been reminded about true beauty. Absalom turned out to be an undesirable man in spite of his enviable appearance. His outstanding physical beauty did not compensate for his arrogance and disloyalty, nor did it prevent his ruin. On the other hand, the Bible contains many examples of wise, appealing people about whom nothing is said of their physical appearance. What mattered most was their inner beauty. Let us be beautiful in Jehovah's eyes.

June 13-19 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Desire, is it bad? We are created by God Jehovah with desires. But what is wrong is developing improper desire. Like David, we need to control our thoughts and eyes so us not commit wrongdoings. We will suffer terribly if we misuse Jehovah's gift.

We need greater control of our thoughts in different areas of life. Whether we are at home, at work, at school, or relaxing we need to develop self-discipline. We can be assured that Jehovah will help us in this battle.

For this week's reading, these are some points to remember:

At 2 Samuel 11:1, David would never have made the most heinous mistake of his life had he kept busy. Once King David stayed at home, apparently deciding to “take it easy.” Had he been busy fighting the sons of Ammon at Rabbah, along with his general, Joab, David would never have been exposed to that temptation to which he succumbed, afterward to regret it so bitterly! Can you not look back and see how at times having much to do may have kept you from making a serious mistake? So let us keep ourselves busy with spiritual things.
2 Samuel 12:9 tells us the danger of despising the word of Jehovah. David disregarded His word and became arrogant. The question now presents itself, How do we respond to counsel when it is administered to us? Do we humbly acknowledge wrong and submit to discipline so that we can make proper advancements again? Like David, let us respond to God’s Word, even though it hurts at the time, remembering that ‘Jehovah disciplines those whom he loves.’

Yes, it is very important to guard our hearts. Let us control improper desires. May we always prove our love to Jehovah and His laws.

June 6-12 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

What is loyal love? The expression “loyal love” occurs some 230 times in the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures. What is it? According to the “Glossary of Bible Terms” found in that translation, it refers to “love motivated by commitment, integrity, loyalty, and deep attachment. It is often used in connection with God’s love for humans, but it is also love shown between humans. This is the focus of this week's meeting. David was a good example of displaying this quality. How about us? Do we search for someone to whom we can show loyal love? Do we act immediately to help our fellow believers? May we be prompt to do so!

For spiritual gems, here's what I've found:

Doubts can lead to disaster. That's what I've learned in 2 Samuel 10:2-4. Hanun doubted David resulting in undue conflict. We must guard ourselves against doubting the motives of our fellow Christians. Bro. Morris once said, "Feed your faith, for sure doubts will get starve."
2 Samuel 10:12 teaches us to rely on Jehovah. Joab's statement that we must be strong and courageous for Jehovah will do what is good in His eyes shows trust. Like him, we need to put our confidence in Jehovah. He will always and will always protect us from any harm.

Yes, we are convinced that Jehovah's love for us will not waver! So like our God, let us practice displaying loyal love to our brothers.

May 30-June 5 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

One of the covenants that can be read in the Bible is the Davidic covenant. Are you familiar with it? This week's meeting will discuss it.

Jehovah makes a covenant with David that He will raise someone from his royal line who will rule forever. Yes, we all know that all of these were fulfilled in the Messiah. Psalms 89: 36,37 gives us reasons to trust that all God's covenants will be accomplished. Like the sun and the moon, Messiah's rulership will be forever and permanent.

For this week's Bible reading, I loved these lessons:

2 Samuel 7:2-17 shows that at first, Nathan's judgment concerning temple construction did not harmonize with God. Without murmuring, however, this humble prophet acquiesced to Jehovah’s purpose and cooperated with it. What a fine example to follow if God should correct us in some way!
2 Samuel 7:26-29 honor the great name of Jehovah. There is no other God who had the same qualities as Him. He proves that He will fulfill every purpose that He desires. As for us, we need to do our utmost not to bring any contempt in His holy name. We need to do our best to maintain our good reputation because we love Him.
2 Samuel 8:11 records that David made some vessels dedicated to Jehovah God. We too made our dedication when we got baptized. It is a serious matter that we need to remember always.

Let us cherish the covenant we made to our God Jehovah. May we never forget that we are His people and He is expecting us to walk with Him daily.

May 23-May 29 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Having good intentions are not enough! That is the lesson I've learned in this week's meeting. What important is that we fear Jehovah in a proper way. We may be serving Jehovah for years, so like Uzzah, we should have known Bible principles well. So, any task given to us must be treated according to His way. Let us show in our lives that we fear displeasing our God.

May 23-May 29 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

For this week's Bible reading, here are the points we should remember.

2 Samuel 5:17-25 recorded two strangely won victories of Jehovah served as excellent historic references for Jehovah God in describing his purposes for the future, even for our own day. Today also we face the opposition of different kinds, but like David, we trust Jehovah that He will and will always protect us!
2 Samuel 6:2, 3 encourages us to follow carefully Jehovah's principles. Unlike David, things went wrong for him when he decided to move the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem. Using a wagon to transport the Ark violated all the instructions that Jehovah had given regarding it. It was clearly stated that the only authorized bearers, the Kohathite Levites, should carry the Ark on their shoulders, using poles placed through the rings specially built into Ark. But he ignored these instructions resulting in the displeasing Jehovah and the death of some.

Let us do our utmost to please Jehovah!

May 16-May 22 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

We will be discussing this week the second book of Samuel. How was your Bible reading? The video at the start of every chapter helps us to have a summary of what it contains. Do not forget to watch it, brothers and sisters. Have you seen a "bow"? Jonathan gave it to David along with the belt, his garments, and sword. So what do we learn from "the bow"? Two things: respect for authority in the congregation and loyalty to our Christian friends. Jehovah God wants us to be respectful in all aspects of our life.

As I read these three chapters, here are the gems that I like the most.

Christian sisters will learn from 2 Samuel 1:24 about dressing moderately and modestly. Just as she should not attract undue attention by wearing gaudy or flashy jewelry, so she should be careful that her use of cosmetics is not unduly obvious. Just like the ancient servants of Jehovah.
2 Samuel 3:3 emphasizes the importance of marrying only in the Lord. Like what we have known, David had six wives and one of those was Michal, King Saul's daughter. Before marriage alliances were sometimes arranged but now we are free to choose to whom we will get married. Let us heed Jehovah's law about this to avoid the lasting bad consequences of disobedience.

Knowledge is nothing when we do not apply it in our lives. Be obedient and be blessed!

May 9-May 15 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

When you're distressed, whom do you look to for strength? Yes, we all feel bitter sometimes. But our God, Jehovah, strengthens us in all circumstances. Just like David! David’s fear of Jehovah did more than just restrain him from doing wrong. It strengthened him to act decisively and wisely under difficult circumstances. Though distressed, David did not despair. Likewise, we need to rely on Jehovah God for the courage to go on.

For this week, here are the spiritual gems that I have meditated.

1 Samuel 30:7. This indicates that David approached God through the priestly organization represented by Abiathar, who had the ephod. Today as servant of Jehovah, we must likewise look to God’s visible organization for spiritual food that is timely and for directions in Kingdom service. We should show readiness to submit and conform to the leadings of the holy spirit.
1 Samuel 31:4. This clearly shows that this Biblical event, then, in no way justifies a Christian’s having any part in euthanasia. David, the anointed of Jehovah, ordered that this Amalekite who complied with Saul's request that he be put to death be slain for his bloodguilt. So we must show respect for life.
1 Samuel 31:12, 13. This verses teaches us that David did not consider their burning of the corpses as shameful. It was part of a respectful disposing of the dead. Since Jehovah does not express disapproval of cremation in the Bible, it remains a matter of personal decision. Accordingly, God will provide suitable bodies for those to be raised from death to earthly life. So whether a body returns to the elements by decaying in the ground or is burned to ashes does not in any way affect Jehovah's ability to resurrect the person, if that is His desire.

May we always be strengthened by our God and continue to do His will no matter hard our life would be.

May 2-May 8 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

When talking to someone, do you always reveal everything without hesitation? Do you tell every detail of all things? Well, David is not that kind of person. While escaping from Saul, he did not reveal complete details to Achish. This is his war strategy.

What can we learn from that? In case the time comes and we are being persecuted and pressured to tell all details regarding the whereabouts and what about of our organization, we need to remain silent so as not to put our brothers at risk.

Here are the spiritual gems that I've loved.

1 Samuel 28:6. This is a warning example for us. When men turn away from Jehovah and become alienated from the only One who knows the end from the beginning, they easily fall victim to spiritistic demon influence. Saul is such a striking example, one who at first looked to Jehovah for knowledge of future events but who, after being cut off from all contact with God because of his unfaithfulness, turned to the demons as a substitute for divine guidance. We must not do the same. We should always seek Jehovah's guidance and patiently wait for His answers.
1 Samuel 28:12. This teaches us to avoid spiritistic activities. A seeming case in point is the record of unfaithful King Saul when having a witch call forth the deceased prophet Samuel. True, the witch of Endor claimed to get in touch with the dead prophet Samuel, but did she actually do so? She could not have, for the dead are unconscious, asleep in the grave. (Ps. 146:3, 4; Eccl. 9:5, 10) Then whom did the witch see? She saw a demon impersonating the prophet Samuel. We never get involved in any forms of witchcraft for it is abominable to Jehovah's eyes.

We must remain loyal to Jehovah God at all times.

April 25-May 1 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

It's been a week. We have our different battles in life but with God Jehovah's help, we succeed.

Have you acted or blurt out some words that you regret later? This is the focus of this week's meeting. Impulse! Proverbs 15:28 encourages us to take time to meditate before doing or speaking anything. It is not always easy. Yes, sometimes due to the heat of a certain situation, we may forget to respond calmly.

So, whatever we do, in case we are shopping, or dealing with miscommunication, we must not act in impulse! We should collect our thoughts first and ask Jehovah for wisdom.

For this week's Bible reading, here are some good points that I've found:

1 Samuel 25:3. This verse teaches us how to live by our name. Nabal's parents give him such a name at birth, or was it an epithet that stuck to him later? In either case, he lived up to his name. Nabal was “harsh and bad in his practices.” We want to have a good reputation so we need to be wise about how we live and act.
1 Samuel 25:17. Do we listen? In a way, we have already seen Abigail take the first step toward righting this terrible wrong. Unlike her husband, Nabal, she proved willing to listen. Tragically, Nabal’s view of his own importance rendered him unwilling to listen. Such arrogance is all too common even to this day. But the young man knew Abigail to be different, which is no doubt why he approached her with this problem. So we should listen especially to Jehovah!
1 Samuel 26:23. Sometimes, even when we put forth an earnest effort to express loving-kindness to others, we meet with an unappreciative response. But we ought to realize that there is someone who sees and appreciates what we do, and that is Jehovah. David, the son of Jesse, was one who realized this. Life was made hard for him by King Saul of Israel, who, though he was David’s father-in-law, sought to break up David’s home, finally married off David’s wife Michal to another man, and repeatedly tried to kill David himself. How many people have undergone experiences that are that severe? Yet David repeatedly acted with loving-kindness toward the king. And, though David expected no appreciation from the king, he said: “Jehovah it is who will repay to each one his own righteousness and his own faithfulness.” (1 Sam. 26:23) Yes, Jehovah sees to it that the kindnesses of his servants do not go unrewarded.

There are still many good points in this week's reading. May we put those words in heart! Stay safe everyone!

April 4-10 Our Christian Life And Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

Being a good friend is the focus of the April 4 to 10-midweek meeting. Have you found your true friend in the congregation? Or we may analyze ourselves, am I a true and reliable friend to others? The workbook discussed three ways how we can show that we are good friends. First, comfort and encourage your friend when he is distressed. Second, warn your friend when there is danger. Third, defend your friend when he is slandered. Practical points, right?

For spiritual gems, here's what I've found.

1 Samuel 20:2. Jonathan's expression in this verse shows that he and his father, Saul, are very close. Jonathan believes that his father will not do anything without disclosing it to him. Yet, this closeness did not waver Jonathan's zeal to support Jehovah's will. May we put our relationship to Jehovah first than our family bond.
1 Samuel 21:6. In this account, David stopped at the tabernacle and ate the loaves of presentation. Even though the loaves had already been removed from before Jehovah and replaced by fresh ones, they were ordinarily reserved for the priests to eat. Yet, under the circumstances, David was not condemned for eating them. I have learned that God’s law cannot be violated when circumstances become difficult. A violation is a violation. We must obey God's law at all times.
1 Samuel 21:10-15. David faced distress when he faced the King of Gath. David thought out a strategy by which he escaped. Jehovah blessed his efforts. Likewise, when we are confronted with knotty problems, Jehovah expects us to use our mental faculties and not simply to expect him to work them out for us. He has given us His inspired Word, which will “give to the inexperienced one's shrewdness, . . . knowledge and thinking ability.” God has also provided congregation elders, who can help us to know how to maintain God’s standards. Let us use these loving provisions to overcome distress.
1 Samuel 22:3. Even though David is fleeing and in distressful times, he did not forget to care for his parents. He asked them to please take care of them while he was away. May our burdens and hardships did not hinder us to show love and care to our families or friends in the congregation. Like David, let us show loving support.

We are full again with lessons that we can use in our everyday dealings. Stay alert spiritually and physically. Be safe.

March 28—April 3 Our Christian Life and Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers: Spiritual Gems

This week, the Midweek Meeting will focus on remaining humble. Being humble when praised or when we do things successfully is a challenge. But like David, we too can be humble. Here are some spiritual gems you can add to your lists:

1 Samuel 18:1-3. These verses describe the friendship between Jonathan and David. Although Jonathan was some 30 years older than David, he became united with this young warrior in a lasting bond. Jonathan’s principled love for David and submission to Jehovah’s arrangement was a good example to us. Be a loyal friend to others too.
1 Samuel 18:8. This is a warning example for us! Saul became heated with anger and jealousy towards David. According to studies, anger and jealousy have an adverse effect on our physical health. One cannot form logical conclusions or pass sound judgment. Best to have a calm heart rather than harbor jealousy to someone.
1 Samuel 18:5. The scripture says that “wherever Saul would send David, he will be successful”. Why? Is it because of David’s own strength and insight? A big no! David’s expeditions met with success because of Jehovah. May we have the same humble attitude by having complete reliance on Jehovah and give Him the credits.
1 Samuel 19:23. I have learned the operation of God’s spirit in this event. That night David made his escape through a window of his house and ran to Ramah. He might possibly die on Saul’s hand. But the sufficient time for David to flee is evident that Jehovah helped him. We too can be successful in our symbolic escape. Jehovah God will also grant us His spirit so we can successfully escape to His new world.

May these scriptures strengthen our faith. How about you brothers? You can share your gems too.

March 21-27 Lessons from The Watchtower Study

How are you hanging there, dear brothers and sisters? It will be soon, and we will celebrate the Memorial of Jesus’ death. Despite pandemics, war, and other problems, we are not giving up. At the meeting last Sunday, we have discussed the importance of attending the Memorial. The article helps us to analyze our reasons for attending. Why should we be there? Why should I be there?

March 21-27 Lessons from The Watchtower Study

Whatever our hope is, anointed or part of the great crowd, we are very eager to attend because of our deep appreciation of Jehovah’s love and Jesus sacrifices for us.

Two reasons why the anointed ones attend are to follow Jesus command at Luke 22:19,20. To be partakers of the emblems and to contemplate with their heavenly hope. While for those with an earthly hope, as observers, we share their joy. Being in the Memorial adds to our endurance. Knowing all the blessings that will be possible because of the ransom aids us not to give up our faith! (Matthew 24:13; Galatians 6:9)

So let’s make Memorial day our priority. If we are working plan ahead. Talk to our bosses about that day. Young ones can do the same. Inform your teachers and classmates about the event. And after the Memorial, may our hearts be filled with love and appreciation to Jehovah God and His Son. (Romans 8:38,39)

Stay safe brothers and sisters! You are all in our prayers.

October 30–November 5 Christian Life and Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers

October 30–November 5 Christian Life and Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers

TREASURES FROM GOD’S WORD
Digging for Spiritual Gems
1. Joel 2:12, 13—What do these verses teach us about true repentance?
Genuine repentance is heartfelt. It involves an inward ‘ripping apart of our hearts,’ not an outward ‘ripping apart of garments.’

2. Joel 3:14—What is “the valley of the decision”?
It is a symbolic place for meting out God’s judgment. In the days of Judean King Jehoshaphat, whose name means “Jehovah Is Judge,” God delivered Judah from surrounding nations by confusing their military forces. Hence, the place is also called “the low plain of Jehoshaphat.” (Joel 3:2, 12) In our day, it represents a symbolic location in which nations will be crushed like grapes in a winepress.

3. What has this week’s Bible reading taught you about Jehovah?

Joel 1:15. A title for God in Hebrew is Shad·daiʹ, or “the Almighty One.” This term is found once in the 12 prophetic books, at Joel 1:15. It has been suggested that its primary meaning is “be strong” or “act strongly.” A similar expression, ‘Jehovah of armies,’ is found 107 times in the 12 books. Might implies strength or power to accomplish a thing purposed. It also denotes overcoming obstacles or opposition. Jehovah’s almightiness involves his irresistible power to accomplish his purpose, to fulfill what he foretells.
“Jehovah Will Be a Refuge for His People.” (Joel 3:16): The rocking described in this verse could apply only to Jehovah’s execution of judgment during the great tribulation. We take comfort in knowing that Jehovah will deliver his faithful servants during that time. (Rev. 7:9, 14) As we engage in the preaching work and experience how Jehovah sustains and strengthens us, we build faith and endurance that will help us during the coming great tribulation.

4. What other spiritual gems have you discovered in this week’s Bible reading?

Joel 3:4-8, 19. Joel prophesied that the nations surrounding Judah would be called to account for mistreating God’s chosen people. True to those prophetic words, the mainland city of Tyre was brought to ruin by Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar. Later, when the island-city fell to Alexander the Great, thousands of its military men and prominent people were killed and 30,000 of its inhabitants were sold into slavery. The Philistines experienced like treatment at the hands of Alexander and his successors. By the fourth century B.C.E., Edom lay desolate. (Malachi 1:3) These fulfilled prophecies strengthen our faith in Jehovah as the Fulfiller of his promises. They also show how Jehovah will deal with nations that persecute his worshippers today.
Joel 2:28-32. Only he “who calls on the name of Jehovah will get away safe” on “the great and fear-inspiring day of Jehovah.” How grateful we can be that Jehovah pours out his spirit on every sort of flesh and has young and old, male and female, share in the work of prophesying, that is, declaring “the magnificent things of God”! (Acts 2:11) As the day of Jehovah nears, should we not abound in “holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion”?—2 Peter 3:10-12.

October 23-29 Christian Life and Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers

October 23-29 Christian Life and Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers

TREASURES FROM GOD’S WORD
Digging for Spiritual Gems
1. Hosea 10:12—What must we do to “reap loyal love” from Jehovah?
If we worship Jehovah in an unhypocritical and upright way, we will be recipients of his loving-kindness, or loyal love.

2. Hosea 11:1—How were these words fulfilled in Jesus?
Before Herod’s death-dealing decree, an angel directed that Joseph, Mary, and Jesus go to Egypt. There they remained “until the decease of Herod, for that to be fulfilled which was spoken by Jehovah through his prophet [Hosea], saying: ‘Out of Egypt I called my son.’” (Matt. 2:13-15) Of course, Jesus himself could not have orchestrated any of the foretold events associated with his birth and early life.

3. What has this week’s Bible reading taught you about Jehovah?

Hosea 11:1-4. We can have confidence that Jehovah always deals with his people in a loving way. Evidence of this is found at Hosea 11:1-4, where we read: “When Israel was a boy, then I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. . . . To the Baal images they took up sacrificing, and to the graven images they began making sacrificial smoke. But as for me, I taught Ephraim [the Israelites] to walk, taking them upon my arms; and they did not recognize that I had healed them. With the ropes of earthling man I kept drawing them, with the cords of love, so that I became to them as those lifting off a yoke on their jaws, and gently I brought food to each one.”Here Israel is compared to a small child. Jehovah lovingly taught the Israelites to walk, taking them upon his arms. And he kept drawing them with “the cords of love.” What a touching picture! Imagine that you are a parent helping your child to take his first steps. Your arms are outstretched. You may be using cords for your little one to hold on to so that he does not fall. Well, Jehovah’s love for you is just as tender. He is delighted to lead you with “the cords of love.”
Hosea 14:9 also turns our attention to the positive aspects of observing an upright course. Blessings and benefits come from measuring up to God’s requirements. As the Creator, he knows our makeup. What he expects of us is for our good. To illustrate the relationship between us and God, we might think of an automobile and its manufacturer. The maker knows how the auto is designed and put together. He knows that the car requires an oil change every so often. What would happen if you ignored that standard, perhaps reasoning that the car is running well? Much sooner than might otherwise be so, the engine would deteriorate and fail. The same is true of humans. Our Creator has given us commandments. Keeping them is for our benefit. (Isaiah 48:17, 18) Appreciating that we do benefit gives us additional reason to live up to his standards, to keep his commandments.

4. What other spiritual gems have you discovered in this week’s Bible reading?

Hosea 8:14. You might wonder, ‘How could the Israelites be so easily lured into disobedience?’ Hosea described the process: “Israel began forgetting his Maker.” (Hosea 8:14) The form of the original Hebrew verb is well-rendered “began forgetting.” The Israelites were not suddenly suffering from amnesia about Jehovah. Rather, over time they lost sight of the importance of worshipping him in the way that he approved. Do you think that a Christian could fall into such a trap? Take, for example, a man who is serious about providing for his family. (1 Timothy 5:8) To do so, he would appropriately view his secular work as important. Perhaps something develops, and he feels that he must miss some Christian meetings in order to work. In time, missing meetings becomes easier, and he misses more frequently. Little by little, his bond with God weakens—he has ‘begun to forget his Maker.’ A similar thing may happen to a Christian whose parents or other relatives are unbelievers. He faces issues: How much time will he reserve for them, and when? (Exodus 20:12; Matthew 10:37) What about deciding how much time and attention to use for trips, hobbies, or entertainment?
Hosea 10:12. Hosea used farming vocabulary when urging those in the northern kingdom of Israel: “Sow seed for yourselves in righteousness; reap in accord with loving-kindness. Till for yourselves arable land, when there is time for searching for Jehovah.” Despite that, most would not listen. They “plowed wickedness,” so unrighteousness is what they reaped. (Hosea 10:12, 13) They condoned or shared in corrupt practices, ‘trusting in their own way’ rather than in Jehovah’s way. Some today might wonder, ‘How could that happen to true worshippers living right there in the Promised Land?’ Hosea showed that their problem centered on an attitude like the attitude that we need to guard against if we are to keep in expectation of Jehovah’s great day. That is, of becoming settled and “satisfied.”

October 16-22 Christian Life and Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers

October 16-22 Christian Life and Ministry (Midweek) Meeting Answers

TREASURES FROM GOD’S WORD
Digging for Spiritual Gems
1. Hosea 1:7—When was the house of Judah shown mercy and saved?
This was fulfilled in 732 B.C.E., in the days of King Hezekiah. At that time, Jehovah ended the Assyrian threat to Jerusalem by having an angel slay 185,000 of the enemy’s forces in one night. (2 Kings 19:34, 35) Jehovah thus delivered Judah, not “by a bow or by a sword or by war, by horses or by horsemen,” but by an angel.

2. Hosea 2:18—What are the past and future fulfillments of this verse?
The Jewish remnant who returned to their homeland lived in security, with nothing to fear from animals. This prophecy also had a fulfillment in 1919 C.E., when the remnant of spiritual Israel was freed from “Babylon the Great,” the world empire of false religion. They now dwell in security and enjoy life in a spiritual paradise with their companions, who hope to live forever on earth. Animalistic traits do not exist among these true Christians.

3. What has this week’s Bible reading taught you about Jehovah?

Hosea 5:15. Hosea’s prophecy has shown us that Jehovah is a merciful God who gives hope and blesses those applying his instruction and rejecting apostasy. Like repentant Israelites of the past, let us therefore seek Jehovah and always endeavor to please him. (Hosea 5:15) By doing so, we will reap what is good and have the incomparable joy and peace experienced by all who faithfully walk with God.
Hosea 2:15. God gives true hope. For example, he promised: “I will give her . . . the low plain of Achor as an entrance to hope.” (Hosea 2:15) Jehovah’s ancient wifelike organization had the sure hope of being restored to her homeland, where “the low plain of Achor” was located. Fulfillment of that promise, in 537 B.C.E., gives us sound reason to rejoice in the sure hope that Jehovah sets before us.

4. What other spiritual gems have you discovered in this week’s Bible reading?

Hosea 1:7. Hosea’s prophecy highlights the compassion and mercy of the God we worship. Even if some deviate from his righteous ways, they can repent and turn around. If they do, Jehovah welcomes them. He showed mercy to repentant members of the nation of Israel, with which he had entered a figurative marriage. Though they disobeyed Jehovah and ‘pained the Holy One of Israel, he was merciful and kept remembering that they were flesh.’ (Psalm 78:38-41) Such mercy should move us to keep walking with our compassionate God, Jehovah.
Hosea 4:1, 6. To continue walking with God, we need to keep on taking in knowledge of him and applying it in our life. Knowledge of Jehovah was sorely lacking in Israel. (Hosea 4:1, 6) Yet, some prized divine teaching highly, acted in harmony with it, and were greatly blessed. Hosea was one of them. So were the 7,000 who in Elijah’s day had not bent the knee to Baal. (1 Kings 19:18; Romans 11:1-4) Our own gratitude for divine instruction will help us to keep on walking with God.—Psalm 119:66; Isaiah 30:20, 21.

Monday, May 22, 2023