JULY 2 0 2 3

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STUDY ARTICLES FOR:

SEPTEMBER 11–OCTOBER 8, 2023
STUDY
ARTICLE 29
SONG 150
Seek God for
Your Deliverance
PREVIEW
The great tribulation will
soon begin. The qualities
of endurance, compas-
sion, and love will help us
to be ready for the un-
precedented events that
will then occur. Note how
the early Christians devel-
oped those qualities, how
we can do the same today,
and how those qualities
will prepare us for the
great tribulation.
2
Are You Ready for the
Great Tribulation?
“Prove yourselves ready.”—MATT. 24:44.
PREPARATION saves lives. For example, when a disaster
strikes, people who have prepared for it are more likely
to survive and to be able to help others. A humanitarian
organization in Europe put it this way: “Good prepara-
tion can make all the difference.”
2 The “great tribulation” will strike suddenly. (Matt. 24:
21) Unlike many other disasters, however, the great trib-
ulation will not catch everyone off guard. About 2,000
years ago, Jesus warned his followers to get ready for
that day. (Read Matthew 24:44.) If we are prepared, it
will be easier for us to go through that difficult time and
to help others to do the same.—Luke 21:36.
3 Consider three qualities that can help us to be ready
for the great tribulation. How will we respond if we are
asked to preach a hard-hitting judgment message and un-
believers oppose us? (Rev. 16:21) We will need endurance
to obey Jehovah, trusting that he will protect us. What
will we do if our brothers lose some or all of their materi-
al things? (Hab. 3:17, 18) We will need compassion to
move us to provide them with relief. How will we react if,
as a result of the attack by a coalition of nations, we have
to live in close quarters with our brothers and sisters for
a while? (Ezek. 38:10-12) We will need strong love for
them to help us get through that difficult time.
1. Why is it wise to prepare for disasters?
2. Why should we prepare for the great tribulation? (Matthew 24:44)
3. How will endurance, compassion, and love help us to be ready for
the great tribulation?
 4 God’s Word encourages us to keep
cultivating endurance, compassion, and
love. Luke 21:19 says: “By your endur-
ance you will preserve your lives.” Co-
lossians 3:12 states: “Clothe yourselves
with . . . compassion.” And 1 Thessalo-
nians 4:9, 10 says: “You yourselves are
taught by God to love one another. . . .
But we urge you, brothers, to go on do-
ing so in fuller measure.” All these vers-
es were addressed to disciples who had
already shown endurance, compassion,
and love. Yet, they had to continue devel-
oping these qualities. We must do the
same. To help us, we will consider how
the early Christians demonstrated each
quality. Then we will see how we can imi-
tate those disciples and, as a result, prove
ourselves ready for the great tribulation.
STRENGTHEN YOUR ENDURANCE
5 The early Christians needed to en-
dure. (Heb. 10:36) Besides dealing with
problems common to all people, they
faced additional trials. Many of them
were persecuted, not only by Jewish reli-
gious leaders and the Roman authorities
but also by their own families. (Matt. 10:
21) And within the congregation, some-
times they had to fight the influence of
the apostates and their divisive teach-
ings. (Acts 20:29, 30) Yet, those Chris-
tians endured. (Rev. 2:3) How? They
reflected on Scriptural examples of en-
durance, such as Job. (Jas. 5:10, 11)
They prayed for strength. (Acts 4:29-31)
And they focused on the good results of
their endurance.—Acts 5:41.
4. How does the Bible indicate that we must keep
cultivating endurance, compassion, and love?
5. How did the early Christians endure their trials?
6 We too can endure if we regularly
study examples of endurance in God’s
Word and in our publications and medi-
tate on them. By doing that, Merita, a
sister in Albania, was able to face vio-
lent family opposition. She says: “I was
deeply moved when I studied the Bi-
ble account of Job. He suffered so
much—not knowing who was causing his
tests—and yet he said: ‘Until I die, I will
not renounce my integrity!’ (Job 27:5)
I thought about how my tests paled in
comparison with Job’s. Unlike him, I
knew who was behind these trials.”
7 We can also build up our endurance
by frequently and earnestly sharing
our concerns with Jehovah. (Phil. 4:6;
1 Thess. 5:17) Perhaps you are not fac-
ing a severe trial right now. Even so,
do you seek Jehovah’s guidance when-
ever you feel upset, confused, or over-
whelmed? If you regularly turn to our
God for help with your day-to-day chal-
lenges now, you will not hesitate to do so
when you face bigger challenges in the
future. You will then be confident that he
knows precisely when and how to act in
your behalf.—Ps. 27:1, 3.
8 We are more likely to endure the fu-
ture great tribulation if we endure trials
today. (Rom. 5:3) Why can we say that?
Many brothers have found that each test
of faith that they endured helped them
withstand the next challenge. Endurance
6. What do you learn from what Merita did to en-
dure opposition?
7. Even if we are not currently facing a severe trial,
what should we learn to do now?
8. How does Mira’s example show that enduring
trials today can help us with future trials? (James
1:2-4) (See also picture.)
JULY 2023 3
 refined them, strengthening their faith
that Jehovah is ready and willing to help.
Faith, in turn, helped them endure the
next trial. (Read James 1:2-4.) Mira, a
pioneer in Albania, has found that her
past endurance has helped her to contin-
ue enduring. She admits that sometimes
she feels that she is the only one who has
so many problems. But then she recalls
how much Jehovah has done in the last
20 years to support her, and she tells
herself: ‘Stay faithful. Don’t let all those
years and all those battles that you have
won with Jehovah’s help go to waste.’
You too can reflect on how Jehovah has
already helped you to endure. Be confi-
dent that he notices each time you en-
dure a trial and that he will reward you.
(Matt. 5:10-12) Then when the great trib-
ulation begins, you will have learned how
to endure and you will be determined to
continue to endure.
SHOW COMPASSION
9Consider what happened when Chris-
tians in Judea experienced a great fam-
ine. After the congregation in Anti-
och of Syria heard about the famine,
they doubtless felt compassion for their
brothers in Judea. But then they put
their compassion into action. They “de-
termined, each according to what he
could afford, to send relief to the broth-
ers living in Judea.” (Acts 11:27-30)
Although the brothers affected by the
famine lived some distance away, Chris-
tians in Antioch were determined to help
them.—1 John 3:17, 18.
9. How did the congregation in Antioch of Syria
show compassion?
4 THE WATCHTOWER
10 We too can show compassion to-
day when we learn that fellow wor-
shippers have been affected by a di-
saster. We readily respond—perhaps by
asking the elders if we can assist on a
project, by donating to the worldwide
work, or by praying for those affected
by the disaster.1 (Prov. 17:17) For ex-
ample, in 2020, over 950 Disaster Re-
lief Committees were appointed world-
wide to care for those affected by the
COVID-19 pandemic. Those who serve
with relief committees deserve our warm
commendation. Motivated by compas-
sion for their brothers and sisters, they
have distributed material relief, provid-
ed spiritual care and, in some cases, re-
paired or rebuilt homes and places of
worship.—Compare 2 Corinthians 8:1-4.
11 When we show compassion after a
disaster, others notice the sacrifices that
we make. For instance, in 2019, Hurri-
cane Dorian destroyed a Kingdom Hall
in the Bahamas. While our brothers were
rebuilding the hall, they asked a non-
Witness contractor to provide a quote
for some needed work. He told them:
“I’d like to donate . . . the equipment, the
labor and the materials. . . . I just want to
do this for your organization. I’m moved
by how [you] feel about your friends.”
Most people in the world do not know
1 Those who want to assist with a disaster relief project
should first complete a Local Design/Construction Vol-
unteer Application (DC-50) or an Application for Volun-
teer Program (A-19) and then wait to be invited to assist
with the project.
10. In what ways can we show compassion when
fellow worshippers are affected by a disaster?
(See also picture.)
11. How do acts of compassion honor our heaven-
ly Father?
 ENDURANCE
Each trial that we endure can
strengthen us for the next one
(See paragraph 8)
COMPASSION LOVE
Natural disasters provide an We need the love of all our
opportunity for us to brothers and sisters
show compassion (See paragraph 15)
(See paragraph 10)
During the great tribulation,
we will find the protection
that Jehovah promises
as we remain united with
fellow believers
(See paragraph 16)
 Jehovah. But many of them do observe
Jehovah’s Witnesses. What a privilege to
know that our acts of compassion can
draw people to the One who is “rich in
mercy”!—Eph. 2:4.
12 Why will we need to show compas-
sion during the great tribulation? The Bi-
ble indicates that those who will not give
their allegiance to the political system
will face challenges—both now and dur-
ing the great tribulation. (Read Revela-
tion 13:16, 17.) Our brothers and sisters
may need help to meet their basic needs.
When our King, Christ Jesus, comes to
execute judgment, may he find us show-
ing compassion and invite us to “inherit
the Kingdom.”—Matt. 25:34-40.
STRENGTHEN YOUR LOVE
13 Love was the identifying mark of the
early Christians. But did they find it easy
to show love? Consider the diversity of
the congregation in Rome. Among them
were not only Jews, who were raised to
obey the Mosaic Law, but also Gentiles,
whose background was totally different.
Some Christians were likely slaves while
others were freemen—perhaps some were
even slave owners. How could those
Christians overcome such differences and
strengthen their love? The apostle Paul
urged them to “welcome one another.”
(Read Romans 15:7.) What did he mean?
The word translated “welcome” means
to receive someone kindly or hospita-
bly, such as into one’s home or circle of
friends. For example, Paul told Philemon
12. How does cultivating compassion today pre-
pare us for the great tribulation? (Revelation 13:
16, 17)
13. As indicated at Romans 15:7, how did the ear-
ly Christians strengthen their bonds of love?
6 THE WATCHTOWER
how to welcome the runaway slave Onesi-
mus: “Receive him kindly.” (Philem. 17)
And Priscilla and Aquila welcomed Apol-
los, who knew less about Christianity
than they did, by taking “him into their
company.” (Acts 18:26) Rather than al-
low their diversity to divide them, those
Christians overcame their differences
and welcomed one another.
14 We too can show love to our brothers
and sisters by welcoming them into our
circle of friends. They, in turn, will often
respond by showing love to us. (2 Cor. 6:
11-13) Consider the experience of Anna
and her husband. Shortly after they
moved to a new missionary assignment
in West Africa, the COVID-19 pandemic
struck. As new arrivals, they could not
meet in person with their congregation.
How could the couple show their love?
They used videoconferencing to get in
touch with the brothers and sisters there
and tell them how much they wanted to
get to know them better. The families
were touched and responded with fre-
quent calls and messages. Why did the
couple reach out? Anna says, “The acts
of love shown to me and my family in
good times and in bad times are embed-
ded in my heart and mind and have moti-
vated me to show love.”
15 Many of us belong to congregations
made up of brothers and sisters who
are from different backgrounds and who
have a variety of personalities. We can
strengthen our love for all of them by
14. How did Anna and her husband demonstrate
love?
15. What do you learn from Vanessa’s example
about loving all our brothers and sisters? (See also
picture.)
 focusing on their good qualities. A sis-
ter named Vanessa, who serves in New
Zealand, used to find it difficult to get
along with some in her congregation.
But then she decided that instead of
pulling away from those whose personal-
ities irritated her, she would spend more
time with them. Doing so helped her
to see what Jehovah loves about them.
She says: “Since my husband became a
circuit overseer, we are in the company
of many more brothers and sisters who
have different personalities, and I find it
easier to get along with them. I now love
the variety. Jehovah obviously loves it
too because he has drawn us into such a
diverse group.” When we learn to see
others as Jehovah sees them, we prove
that we love them.—2 Cor. 8:24.
16 Love will be vital during the great
tribulation. When that tribulation be-
gins, where will we find protection? Con-
sider what Jehovah instructed his peo-
ple to do when ancient Babylon was
attacked: “Go, my people, enter your in-
ner rooms, and shut your doors behind
you. Hide yourself for a brief moment
16. Why will love be essential during the great trib-
ulation? (See also picture.)
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
˛ What will help you ˛ What does showing
to strengthen your compassion to others
endurance? involve?
until the wrath has passed by.” (Isa. 26:
20) It seems that those words also apply
to us who will face the great tribulation.
The “inner rooms” may refer to our con-
gregations. During the great tribulation,
we will find the protection that Jehovah
promises as we remain united with fel-
low believers. Therefore, we must work
hard now not just to tolerate our broth-
ers and sisters but also to love them. Our
survival may depend on it!
PREPARE NOW
17 “The great day of Jehovah” will
bring distress on humankind. (Zeph. 1:
14, 15) Jehovah’s people will face hard-
ships too. But if we prepare now, we will
be able to stay calm and help others. We
will endure any challenges that come our
way. When our fellow believers suffer,
we will do our best to give them relief by
showing compassion and providing for
their needs. And we will stick close to
our brothers and sisters, whom we have
already grown to love. Jehovah will then
reward us with eternal life in a world
where all disasters and tribulations will
be forgotten.—Isa. 65:17.
17. If we prepare now, what will we be able to do
during the great tribulation?
˛ How can you strengthen
your love for your brothers
and sisters?
SONG 144
Keep Your Eyes on the Prize!
STUDY
ARTICLE 30
SONG 2
Jehovah Is Your Name
PREVIEW
Whether we are new
in the truth or we have
been serving Jehovah for
many years, all of us can
continue to make prog-
ress. This article will dis-
cuss an important way we
can do this: by growing in
our love for Jehovah and
for others. As you medi-
tate on this material, con-
sider what progress you
have already made and
how you can make further
progress.
8
Keep Growing
in Your Love
“Let us by love grow up in all things.”—EPH. 4:15.
DO YOU remember when you started studying the Bi-
ble? You may have been surprised to discover that God
has a name. Perhaps you were relieved to find out that
God does not torture people in hellfire. And likely you
were thrilled at the prospect of seeing your dead loved
ones again and living with them in an earthly paradise.
2 The more you studied God’s Word, the more your
love for Jehovah grew. That love motivated you to apply
what you learned. You made better decisions based on
Bible principles. You improved your attitude and con-
duct because you wanted to please God. Just as a child
imitates a loving parent, you were imitating your heav-
enly Father.—Read Ephesians 5:1, 2.
3 We might ask ourselves: ‘Is my love for Jehovah
stronger now than when I first became a Christian?
Since my baptism, is my way of thinking and acting more
like Jehovah’s way—especially in showing love to my
brothers and sisters?’ If “the love you had at first” has
cooled off somewhat, do not be discouraged. Something
similar happened to Christians in the first century. Je-
sus did not give up on them, and he does not give up on
us either. (Rev. 2:4, 7) He knows that we can rekindle the
love we felt when we first learned the truth.
1. What truths did you learn when you began to study the Bible?
2. In addition to learning Bible truths, what further progress did you
make? (Ephesians 5:1, 2)
3. What questions might we ask ourselves?
 4 This article will discuss how we can
continue to grow in our love for Jeho-
vah and for others. Then we will identi-
fy some of the blessings that come to us
and to others when we strengthen our
love.
GROW IN YOUR LOVE
FOR JEHOVAH
5 The apostle Paul enjoyed a satisfy-
ing life in Jehovah’s service, but he had
many challenges to overcome. Paul of-
ten traveled long distances, and trav-
el was not easy in those days. On his
journeys, Paul was sometimes “in dan-
gers from rivers” and “in dangers from
robbers.” He was also occasionally sub-
jected to physical mistreatment from
opposers. (2 Cor. 11:23-27) And Paul’s
Christian brothers did not always show
appreciation for his sincere efforts to
help them.—2 Cor. 10:10; Phil. 4:15.
6 What helped Paul to keep going in
Jehovah’s service? Paul learned much
about Jehovah’s personality from the
Scriptures and from his own experienc-
es. Paul became convinced that Jehovah
God loved him. (Rom. 8:38, 39; Eph. 2:
4, 5) And he came to love Jehovah very
much. Paul showed his love for Jehovah
“by ministering and continuing to minis-
ter to the holy ones.”—Heb. 6:10.
7 We can grow in our love for God
by diligently studying his Word. As you
read the Bible, try to discern what each
4. What will we consider in this article?
5-6. What challenges did the apostle Paul face
during his ministry, but what motivated him to
keep serving Jehovah?
7. What is one way we can grow in our love for Je-
hovah?
passage reveals about Jehovah. Ask
yourself: ‘How does this account show
that Jehovah loves me? What reasons
does it give me to love Jehovah?’
8 Another way we can grow in our
love for Jehovah is by regularly open-
ing our heart to him in prayer. (Ps. 25:
4, 5) Jehovah, in turn, will answer our
prayers. (1 John 3:21, 22) Khanh, a sis-
ter in Asia, says: “My love for Jehovah
was first based on knowledge, but that
love deepened as I saw how he answered
my prayers. This made me want to do
things that please him.”1
GROW IN YOUR LOVE
FOR OTHERS
9 Some years after his conversion,
Paul met a fine young man named Tim-
othy. Timothy loved Jehovah, and he
loved people. Paul told the Philippians:
“I have no one else of a disposition like
[Timothy’s] who will genuinely care for
your concerns.” (Phil. 2:20) Paul did
not here comment on Timothy’s ability
as an organizer or as a public speak-
er, but Paul was obviously impressed by
Timothy’s love for the brothers and sis-
ters. No doubt the congregations that
Timothy served looked forward to his
visits.—1 Cor. 4:17.
10 We too look for ways to help our
Christian brothers and sisters. (Heb. 13:
16) Consider the experience of Anna,
1 Some names have been changed.
8. How can prayer help us to grow in our love for
God?
9. How did Timothy show that he was making
progress in showing love?
10. How did Anna and her husband express the
love they felt for their brothers and sisters?
JULY 2023 9
When a person makes spiritual progress,
he looks for ways to help others
(See paragraph 12)
mentioned in the preceding article. Af-
ter a severe storm, she and her husband
visited the home of a Witness family and
discovered that the roof of the fami-
ly’s house had caved in. As a result, the
family had no clean clothes. Anna says:
“We took their clothes, washed them,
and returned them ironed and folded.
To us, it was a little gesture, but it creat-
ed a bond of friendship that remains
strong to this day.” Anna and her hus-
band’s love for the brothers and sisters
motivated them to give practical help.
—1 John 3:17, 18.
11 When we deal lovingly and kindly
with others, they often notice our ef-
forts to reflect Jehovah’s ways of think-
11. (a) How might our efforts to show love affect
others? (b) According to Proverbs 19:17, how does
Jehovah respond when we show love?
10 THE WATCHTOWER
ing and acting. And they may appreci-
ate our kindness more than we will ever
know. Khanh, mentioned earlier, fondly
remembers those who helped her. She
says: “I am so grateful to all the dear sis-
ters who took me out in service. They
picked me up, invited me for snacks
or lunch, and dropped me off safely at
home. I realize now that it took so much
effort. And they did it with love.” Of
course, not everyone will thank us for
what we do for them. Khanh says about
those who helped her: “I wish I could re-
pay them for their many kindnesses, but
I don’t know where they all live. How-
ever, Jehovah does, and I pray that he
will repay them for me.” Khanh is right.
Jehovah does notice even the smallest
act of kindness that we extend to oth-
ers. He views it as a valuable sacrifice
and as a debt that he is going to repay.
—Read Proverbs 19:17.
12 If you are a brother, how can you
show love for others and reach out
to help them? A young brother named
Jordan asked an elder how he could
do more to help in the congregation.
The elder commended him for the prog-
ress that he had already made and
then gave him some advice on how he
could do more. For example, he sug-
gested that Jordan arrive early at the
Kingdom Hall and greet others, par-
ticipate at the meetings, preach regu-
larly with his field service group, and
look for practical ways to help others.
When Jordan applied this advice, he
was not simply learning new skills but
12. How can brothers show their love for the con-
gregation? (See also pictures.)
also growing in his love for his brothers
and sisters. Jordan learned that when a
brother becomes a ministerial servant,
he does not begin helping others; rather,
he continues helping them.—1 Tim. 3:8-
10, 13.
13 What if you formerly served as a
ministerial servant or an elder? Jeho-
vah remembers the work you did in the
past and the love that motivated you
to do it. (1 Cor. 15:58) He also ob-
serves the love that you continue to
show. A brother named Christian was
disappointed when he was deleted as an
elder. Yet, he says: “I decided to do all
that I could to serve Jehovah out of love
—with or without certain privileges.” In
time, he was reappointed as an elder.
13. How did love motivate a brother named Chris-
tian to qualify again as an elder?
JULY 2023 11
 One act of love can result in blessings for many other people
(See paragraphs 15-16)
Christian admits: “I was a little appre-
hensive to serve again. But I decided
that if Jehovah, by his mercy, was allow-
ing me to serve as an elder again, I would
do it because of my love for him and for
my brothers and sisters.”
14 Jehovah’s servants also express
their love for their neighbors. (Matt.
22:37-39) For example, Elena, a sister in
the country of Georgia, says: “At first,
the only thing that motivated me to
preach was my love for Jehovah. But as
my love for my heavenly Father grew,
my love for people also grew. I tried to
imagine what problems they faced and
14. What do you learn from the comments of a sis-
ter from Georgia?
12 THE WATCHTOWER
what topic might touch their heart. The
more I thought about them in this way,
the more I wanted to help them.”—Rom.
10:13-15.
BLESSINGS THAT COME FROM
SHOWING LOVE TO OTHERS
15When we show love to our brothers,
they are not the only ones who bene-
fit. After the COVID-19 pandemic be-
gan, a brother named Paolo and his wife
helped many elderly sisters learn how
to use their electronic devices in or-
der to give a witness. One sister who at
first found it difficult to use her device
finally succeeded. She was able to use it
15-16. As reenacted in the pictures, what bless-
ings come from showing love to others?
 to invite her relatives to the Memorial.
Sixty of them attended via videocon-
ference! The sister and her relatives all
benefited from the efforts of Paolo and
his wife. Later, the sister wrote Pao-
lo: “Thank you for teaching us elderly
ones. I will never forget Jehovah’s con-
cern and your tireless efforts.”
16 Experiences like this one taught
Paolo a vital lesson. He was reminded
that love is more important than knowl-
edge or natural ability. He recalls: “I
used to serve as a circuit overseer. To-
day, I realize that although the publish-
ers may have forgotten my talks, they
still remember the practical help I gave
them.”
17 When we show love to others, we
ourselves benefit in unexpected ways.
Jonathan, who lives in New Zealand,
confirms this. One hot Saturday after-
noon, he saw a pioneer witnessing along
the road. Jonathan decided to work
17. Who else will benefit when we show love?
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
˛ How can you grow in your ˛ In what ways can you show
love for Jehovah? that you love your brothers
and sisters?
with the pioneer on subsequent Satur-
day afternoons. He did not realize at the
time how much he himself would bene-
fit from this act of kindness. “At that
point in my life,” Jonathan admits, “I
did not love field service. But as I lis-
tened to the pioneer’s way of teaching
and saw how fruitful his ministry was, it
stirred in me a real love for this work. I
also gained a great friend who helped
me to grow spiritually, to enjoy the min-
istry, and to draw closer to Jehovah.”
18 Jehovah wants all of us to grow in
love for him and for others. As we have
learned, we can strengthen our love for
Jehovah by reading his Word and medi-
tating on it and by regularly talking to
him in prayer. We can grow in our love
for our brothers and sisters by assist-
ing them in practical ways. As our love
grows, we will draw ever closer to Jeho-
vah and to our spiritual family. And we
will enjoy those friendships forever!
18. What does Jehovah want us to do?
˛ What blessings come from
showing love to others?
SONG 109
Love Intensely From the Heart
STUDY
ARTICLE 31
SONG 122
Be Steadfast, Immovable!
PREVIEW
Since the days of Adam
and Eve, Satan has pro-
moted the idea that people
should decide for them-
selves what is right and
what is wrong. He wants
us to adopt that same atti-
tude toward Jehovah’s
laws and toward any theo-
cratic direction we receive.
This article will help us to
guard against the indepen-
dent spirit of Satan’s world
and to strengthen our
resolve to stand firmly on
Jehovah’s side.
14
“Be Steadfast, Immovable”
“My beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable.”
—1 COR. 15:58.
IN THE late 1970’s, a 60-story skyscraper gradually rose
above the skyline of Tokyo, Japan. Observers won-
dered how it would be able to withstand the frequent
earthquakes in that city. The secret? Engineers designed
the building to be rigid yet flexible enough to absorb
seismic shocks. Christians are like that skyscraper. In
what way?
2 A Christian must maintain a balance between stead-
fastness and flexibility. He needs to be strong and im-
movable when it comes to upholding Jehovah’s laws and
standards. (Read 1 Corinthians 15:58.) He is “ready to
obey” and does not compromise. On the other hand, he
needs to be “reasonable,” or flexible, when the situation
allows for it or even requires it. (Jas. 3:17) A Christian
who has learned to have this balanced view will avoid the
extremes of being either excessively rigid or overly per-
missive. In this article, we will consider how we can be
immovable. We will also identify five ways that Satan
tries to weaken our resolve and learn how we can resist
his efforts.
HOW CAN WE BE STEADFAST?
3As the Supreme Lawgiver, Jehovah has consistently
conveyed clear laws to his people. (Isa. 33:22) For exam-
ple, the first-century governing body identified three
1-2. In what way might a Christian be like a skyscraper? (1 Corinthians
15:58)
3. What laws of the Supreme Lawgiver are found at Acts 15:28, 29?
ways in which Christians must remain
firm: (1) by rejecting idolatry, worship-
ping only Jehovah, (2) by respecting the
sanctity of blood, and (3) by adhering to
the Bible’s high moral standards. (Read
Acts 15:28, 29.) How can Christians to-
day maintain a firm stand in these three
specific ways?
4 We reject idolatry, worshipping only
Jehovah. He commanded the Israelites
to give him exclusive devotion. (Deut. 5:
6-10) And when tempted by the Dev-
il, Jesus clearly indicated that we must
worship only Jehovah. (Matt. 4:8-10)
Therefore, we do not worship religious
idols. We also do not idolize humans
—whether they are religious leaders, po-
litical rulers, or stars in the world of
sports and entertainment—treating
them like gods. We take our stand on Je-
hovah’s side and worship only the one
who “created all things.”—Read Revela-
tion 4:11.
5 We uphold Jehovah’s law regarding
the sanctity of life and blood. Why?
Because Jehovah says that blood rep-
resents life, a precious gift from him.
(Lev. 17:14) When Jehovah first allowed
humans to eat the flesh of animals, he di-
rected them not to eat the blood. (Gen.
9:4) He repeated this command when he
gave the Mosaic Law to Israel. (Lev. 17:
10) And he directed the first-century
governing body to decree that all Chris-
tians “keep abstaining . . . from blood.”
(Acts 15:28, 29) We steadfastly obey
4. How do we give Jehovah exclusive devotion?
(Revelation 4:11)
5. Why do we uphold Jehovah’s law regarding the
sanctity of life and blood?
this command when we make medical
decisions.1
6 We strictly adhere to Jehovah’s high
moral standards. (Heb. 13:4) Using viv-
id figurative language, the apostle Paul
advises us to “deaden” our body mem-
bers—that is, to take strong measures
in order to eliminate wrong fleshly de-
sires. We avoid looking at or doing any-
thing that could lead to sexual immoral-
ity. (Col. 3:5; Job 31:1) When we face
temptation, we immediately reject any
thought or action that could damage our
friendship with God.
7 Jehovah expects us to be “obedient
from the heart.” (Rom. 6:17) His guid-
ance is always in our best interests, and
his laws are nonnegotiable. (Isa. 48:17,
18; 1 Cor. 6:9, 10) We strive to please Je-
hovah and show the same attitude as the
psalmist who declared: “I have resolved
to obey your regulations at all times,
down to the last.” (Ps. 119:112) How-
ever, Satan will try to weaken our re-
solve. What methods does he use?
HOW DOES SATAN TRY
TO WEAKEN OUR RESOLVE?
8 Persecution. The Devil uses physi-
cal and emotional attacks in an ef-
fort to weaken our resolve. His aim
is “to devour” us, to destroy our re-
lationship with Jehovah. (1 Pet. 5:8)
1 For information about how a Christian can uphold
God’s view of blood, see lesson 39 of the Enjoy Life For-
ever! book.
6. What efforts do we make to live by Jehovah’s
high moral standards?
7. What should we resolve to do, and why?
8. How does Satan use persecution in an effort to
weaken our resolve?
JULY 2023 15
 Christians in the first century were
threatened, beaten, and killed because
of their determination to stand firm.
(Acts 5:27, 28, 40; 7:54-60) Satan con-
tinues to use persecution today. This is
evident in the brutal treatment of our
brothers and sisters in Russia and other
countries and in the personal attacks by
opposers.
9 Subtle pressures. Satan uses “crafty
acts” in addition to blatant frontal at-
tacks. (Eph. 6:11) Take the example of
a brother named Bob, who was hospi-
talized for major surgery. He informed
the doctors that under no circumstanc-
es would he accept a blood transfu-
sion. The surgeon agreed to respect his
decision. However, on the night before
the surgery, the anesthesiologist paid
Bob a visit after his family had gone
home. He told Bob that blood would
likely not be given but that they would
have it on hand just in case it was need-
ed. Perhaps the doctor thought that Bob
would change his mind without his fam-
ily around. But Bob remained steadfast,
stating that he was not to be given blood
under any circumstances.
10 Human reasoning. If we look at mat-
ters from a human standpoint, we may
leave out Jehovah and his standards.
(Read 1 Corinthians 3:19, 20.) “The
wisdom of this world” often appeals to
fleshly desires. A few Christians in Per-
gamum and Thyatira adopted the idol-
atrous and immoral views common in
those cities. Jesus sent strong coun-
9. Illustrate the need to beware of subtle pres-
sures.
10. Why is human reasoning a snare? (1 Corinthi-
ans 3:19, 20)
16 THE WATCHTOWER
sel to both congregations for their tol-
eration of sexual immorality. (Rev. 2:14,
20) Today, we face pressure to adopt
wrong viewpoints. Family members and
acquaintances may appeal to our emo-
tions and encourage us to compromise.
For example, they may claim that giving
in to our desires does not matter and
that the Bible’s moral standards are out-
dated.
11 At times, we might reason that the
direction Jehovah gives us is not suf-
ficient. We might even be tempted to
“go beyond the things that are written.”
(1 Cor. 4:6) The religious leaders in Je-
sus’ day were guilty of this sin. By add-
ing man-made rules to the Law, they im-
posed a heavy burden on the common
people. (Matt. 23:4) Jehovah gives us
clear direction through his Word and
through his organization. We have no
reason to add to the instruction he pro-
vides. (Prov. 3:5-7) Therefore, we do
not go beyond what is written in the Bi-
ble or make rules for fellow believers
about personal matters.
12 Deceptions. Satan employs “empty
deception” and “the elementary things
of the world” to mislead and divide
people. (Col. 2:8) In the first centu-
ry, these included philosophies based on
human reasonings, unscriptural Jewish
teachings, and the teaching that Chris-
tians must observe the Mosaic Law.
These were deceptions because they
took people’s attention away from the
true Source of wisdom, Jehovah. To-
day, Satan uses the media and social net-
11. As we stand firm, what must we avoid?
12. How does Satan promote “empty deception”?
To stand firm, reflect on your dedication and baptism, study God’s Word
and meditate on it, cultivate a steadfast heart, and trust in Jehovah
(See paragraphs 14-18)
works to spread conspiracy theories and
false news reports promoted by politi-
cal leaders. We saw much of this dur-
ing the COVID-19 pandemic.1 Jehovah’s
Witnesses who listened to the guidance
given by our organization avoided the
undue anxieties experienced by those
who listened to misleading information.
—Matt. 24:45.
13 Distractions. We must not lose sight
of “the more important things.” (Phil.
1:9, 10) Distractions can take an ex-
cessive amount of our time and atten-
tion away from more beneficial pursuits.
Ordinary features of life—such as eat-
ing, drinking, recreation, and secular
work—could become distractions if we
allow them to become the focus of our
life. (Luke 21:34, 35) In addition, every
day we are bombarded with news re-
1 See on jw.org the article “Protect Yourself From Mis-
information.”
13. Why must we be on guard against distrac-
tions?
ports about social disputes and political
issues. We cannot afford to be distracted
by these debates. Otherwise, we may be-
gin to take sides in our mind and heart.
Satan uses all these methods mentioned
above with the goal of weakening our
determination to do what is right. Let us
consider how we can resist his efforts
and remain firm.
HOW CAN WE REMAIN FIRM?
14 Reflect on your dedication and bap-
tism. You took those steps because you
wanted to stand on Jehovah’s side.
Think back to what helped you to be-
come convinced that you had found
the truth. You took in accurate knowl-
edge of Jehovah and grew to respect
and love him as your heavenly Father.
You developed faith and were motivat-
ed to repent. Your heart moved you to
abandon wrong practices and to live in
harmony with God’s will. You felt relief
14. What is one thing that can help us remain firm
on Jehovah’s side?
JULY 2023 17
 If we have built a strong spiritual foundation, we can remain
steadfast no matter what trial we may face
(See paragraph 17)
when you sensed God’s forgiveness. (Ps.
32:1, 2) You attended Christian meet-
ings and began to share with others the
wonderful things you had learned. As a
dedicated and baptized Christian, you
are now walking on the road to life, de-
termined not to lose your way.—Matt. 7:
13, 14.
15 Study God’s Word and meditate on it.
Just as a tree can stand strong if it has
deep roots, we can remain firm if our
faith is deeply rooted in God’s Word.
As a tree grows, its roots grow deep-
er and spread farther. When we study
and meditate, we strengthen our faith
and deepen our conviction that God’s
ways are best. (Col. 2:6, 7) Reflect on
how Jehovah’s instruction, guidance,
and protection helped his servants in
times past. For example, Ezekiel paid
close attention as an angel took detailed
measurements of the visionary temple.
This vision strengthened Ezekiel, and it
15. Why are study and meditation beneficial?
18 THE WATCHTOWER
provides us with practical lessons about
how we can uphold Jehovah’s standards
for pure worship.1 (Ezek. 40:1-4; 43:10-
12) We too benefit when we take time to
study about and meditate on the deeper
things of God’s Word.
16 Cultivate a steadfast heart. King Da-
vid declared his unswerving love for Je-
hovah when he sang: “My heart is stead-
fast, O God.” (Ps. 57:7) We too can have
a steadfast heart, trusting fully in Je-
hovah. (Read Psalm 112:7.) Consider
how this helped Bob, mentioned earli-
er. When he was informed that blood
would be kept on hand just in case it was
needed, he instantly replied that if there
was any chance of giving him blood, he
would leave the hospital immediately.
Later, Bob commented, “I had absolute-
ly no hesitation and no worry.”
1 For details, see chapters 13 and 14 of the book Pure
Worship of Jehovah—Restored At Last!
16. How did a steadfast heart protect Bob? (Psalm
112:7)
 17 Bob was steadfast because he had
made his decision to stand firm long be-
fore he went into the hospital. First, he
desired to make Jehovah happy. Sec-
ond, he carefully studied what the Bi-
ble and our Bible-based publications say
about the sanctity of life and blood.
Third, he was convinced that following
Jehovah’s direction would bring lasting
benefits. We too can have a steadfast
heart no matter what trials we may face.
18 Trust in Jehovah. Consider how Ba-
rak succeeded because of trusting in Je-
hovah’s direction. Although neither a
shield nor a lance could be seen in all the
land, Jehovah instructed him to go into
battle against the well-equipped military
forces of the Canaanite army chief Sise-
ra. (Judg. 5:8) The prophetess Deborah
told Barak to go down to the level plain
to meet Sisera and his 900 chariots.
Even though the chariots would offer
a clear advantage on the flat ground,
17. What can we learn from Bob’s experience? (See
also picture.)
18. How does Barak’s example teach us to trust in
Jehovah? (See cover picture.)
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
˛ How can we be steadfast ˛ What methods does Satan
in upholding Jehovah’s laws use in an effort to weaken
and standards? our resolve to remain firm?
Barak obeyed. As the soldiers descend-
ed Mount Tabor, Jehovah sent pouring
rains from heaven. Sisera’s chariots be-
came mired in mud, and Jehovah gave
Barak the victory. (Judg. 4:1-7, 10, 13-
16) Similarly, Jehovah will give us the
victory if we trust in him and in the di-
rection he provides through his repre-
sentatives.—Deut. 31:6.
BE DETERMINED
TO REMAIN STEADFAST
19 Our fight to remain steadfast will
continue as long as we are living in
this system of things. (1 Tim. 6:11, 12;
2 Pet. 3:17) May we be determined not
to be tossed about by persecution, sub-
tle pressures, human reasoning, decep-
tions, and distractions. (Eph. 4:14) In-
stead, let us stand firm, steadfast in our
devotion to Jehovah and immovable in
our obedience to his commands. At the
same time, we need to be reasonable. In
the next article, we will discuss how Je-
hovah and Jesus are perfect examples of
reasonableness.
19. Why do you want to remain steadfast?
˛ What are four things we
can do to remain firm?
SONG 129
We Will Keep Enduring
STUDY
ARTICLE 32
SONG 89
Listen, Obey,
and Be Blessed
PREVIEW
Jehovah and Jesus are
reasonable, and they want
us to develop that quality.
If we are reasonable, we
will find it easier to adapt
to changes in our circum-
stances, such as a change
in our health or in our fi-
nancial situation. We will
also contribute to the
peace and unity of the
congregation.
20
Imitate Jehovah
—Be Reasonable
“Let your reasonableness become known to all men.”
—PHIL. 4:5.
“THE wind does not break a tree that can bend.” This
proverb highlights an important quality that allows cer-
tain trees to thrive: flexibility. To flourish spiritually,
Christians must be flexible, ready to bend. How? We
must be reasonable by adapting when our personal cir-
cumstances change and by respecting the viewpoints
and decisions of others.
2 As Jehovah’s servants, we want to be reasonable. We
also want to be humble and compassionate. In this arti-
cle, we will see how such qualities helped some Chris-
tians deal with changing circumstances. We will also see
how these qualities can help us. But first, let us learn
from Jehovah and Jesus, the perfect models of reason-
ableness.
JEHOVAH AND JESUS ARE REASONABLE
3Jehovah is called “the Rock” because he is steadfast,
immovable. (Deut. 32:4) However, he is also reasonable.
As events unfold, our God continues to adapt in order to
cause his purpose to be realized. Jehovah created hu-
mans in his image with the ability to adjust to changing
circumstances. He provided clear Bible principles that
help us to make wise decisions no matter what challenges
we may face. Jehovah’s own example and the principles
1. In what way must Christians be like a tree? (See also picture.)
2. What qualities will help us adapt to changing circumstances, and
what will we consider in this article?
3. What evidence do we have of Jehovah’s reasonableness?
he has given us are evidence that while
being “the Rock,” Jehovah is also rea-
sonable.
4 Jehovah’s ways are perfect and rea-
sonable. He is not rigid in his dealings
with humans. Consider, for example,
how Jehovah showed reasonableness
toward the Israelites. He did not re-
quire the same sacrifice from everyone,
whether rich or poor. In some cases, he
allowed each person to offer sacrifices
according to his circumstances.—Read
Leviticus 5:7, 11.
5 Jehovah’s humility and compassion
move him to be reasonable. For ex-
ample, Jehovah’s humility was evident
when he was about to destroy the wick-
ed people of Sodom. Through his an-
gels, Jehovah instructed righteous Lot
to flee to the mountainous region. Lot
was afraid to go there. So he pleaded
that he and his family be allowed to take
refuge in Zoar, a small town that was
slated for destruction. Jehovah could
have insisted that Lot follow His instruc-
tions to the letter. Instead, he grant-
ed Lot’s request, even though it meant
sparing Zoar. (Gen. 19:18-22) Centu-
ries later, Jehovah showed compassion
toward the inhabitants of Nineveh. He
sent the prophet Jonah to announce the
imminent destruction of the city and its
wicked inhabitants. But when the Nin-
evites repented, Jehovah felt sorry for
them and spared the city.—Jonah 3:1,
10; 4:10, 11.
4. Give an example of Jehovah’s reasonableness.
(Leviticus 5:7, 11)
5. Give an example of Jehovah’s humility and com-
passion.
Which sort of tree would you rather be?
(See paragraph 1)
6 Jesus imitated Jehovah’s reasonable-
ness. He was sent to earth to preach to
“the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
But he showed reasonableness in carry-
ing out that assignment. On one occa-
sion, a non-Israelite woman begged him
to heal her daughter who was “cruel-
ly demon possessed.” Jesus compassion-
ately did as the woman asked and healed
her daughter. (Matt. 15:21-28) Consider
another example. Earlier in his ministry,
Jesus declared: “Whoever disowns me
. . . , I will also disown him.” (Matt. 10:
33) But did he disown Peter, who denied
him three times? No. Jesus took into ac-
count Peter’s repentance and faith. Af-
ter being resurrected, Jesus appeared to
Peter and very likely assured him of his
forgiveness and love.—Luke 24:33, 34.
7 We have seen that Jehovah God
and Jesus Christ are reasonable. What
6. Illustrate how Jesus imitated Jehovah’s reason-
ableness.
7. In harmony with Philippians 4:5, what reputa-
tion do we desire?
JULY 2023 21
 about us? Jehovah expects us to be rea-
sonable. (Read Philippians 4:5.) One
translation renders this verse: “Have a
reputation for being reasonable.” We
can ask ourselves: ‘Do people perceive
me as being reasonable, yielding, and
tolerant? Or do they view me as a rigid,
harsh, or headstrong person? Do I insist
on having others carry out what I con-
sider to be the letter of the law? Or do I
listen to others and yield to their wishes
when appropriate?’ The degree to which
we are reasonable reflects the extent to
which we are imitating Jehovah and Je-
sus. Let us consider two areas that call
for reasonableness—when our person-
al circumstances change and when the
viewpoints and decisions of others are
different from ours.
BE REASONABLE WHEN
CIRCUMSTANCES CHANGE
8 Reasonableness involves being flex-
ible when our circumstances change.
Such changes can create unexpected
hardships for us. We may face a health
emergency. Or sudden changes in the
economy or in the political climate
where we live may completely disrupt
our life. (Eccl. 9:11; 1 Cor. 7:31) Even a
change in a theocratic assignment can
test us. Whatever the challenge, we can
successfully adapt to new circumstanc-
es if we take the following four steps:
(1) accept reality, (2) look to the future,
(3) focus on the positive, and (4) do
things for others.1 Let us consider some
1 See the article “How to Deal With Change” in Awake!
No. 4 2016.
8. What can help us to be reasonable when cir-
cumstances change? (See also footnote.)
22 THE WATCHTOWER
real-life examples to illustrate how tak-
ing these steps can help.
9 Accept reality. Emanuele and Fran-
cesca were assigned as missionaries in a
foreign country. Just as they began to
learn the language and settle into their
new congregation, the COVID-19 pan-
demic broke out and they had to iso-
late themselves physically. Then Fran-
cesca’s mother died suddenly. Francesca
desperately wanted to be with her fam-
ily, but the pandemic prevented her
from traveling there. How was she able
to cope with these discouraging de-
velopments? First, Emanuele and Fran-
cesca as a couple prayed for the wis-
dom to take one day at a time. Jehovah
answered their prayers through timely
spiritual provisions. For example, they
were encouraged by one brother who
said in a video interview: “The quick-
er we accept the new circumstances,
the quicker our joy returns to us along
with the opportunity to make good use
of the new circumstances.”1 Second,
they were motivated to become more
skillful at telephone witnessing and they
even started a Bible study. Third, they
gratefully accepted the loving encour-
agement and support of the local broth-
ers. One thoughtful sister sent them a
short Scriptural message every day for a
year. When we likewise accept our new
circumstances, we will find satisfaction
in what we are able to do.
1 Watch the video Interview With Brother Dmitriy Mi-
khaylov, linked to the article “Jehovah Turns Persecution
Into a Witness” in the March-April 2021 Our Christian
Life and Ministry—Meeting Workbook.
9. How did one missionary couple cope with un-
expected trials?
 10 Look to the future, and focus on the
positive. Christina, a Romanian sister
who lives in Japan, was disappointed
when the English congregation she at-
tended was dissolved. However, she did
not dwell on the past. Rather, she decid-
ed to do her best in the local Japanese-
language congregation by having a
meaningful share in that field. She asked
a former workmate to help her improve
her language skills. The woman agreed
to use the Bible and the Enjoy Life For-
ever! brochure to teach Christina Japa-
nese. Not only did Christina improve in
her ability to communicate in Japanese
but the woman began to show interest in
the truth. When we look ahead and are
positive, unforeseen changes can bring
unexpected blessings.
11 Do things for others. A couple living
in a country where our work is banned
lost their stable income when the econ-
omy collapsed. How did they adapt?
First, they took steps to simplify their
life. Next, rather than focus on their
own problems, they decided to concen-
trate on helping others by staying busy
in the preaching work. (Acts 20:35) The
husband commented, “Being busy in
the ministry gave us less time to think
negative thoughts and more time to fo-
cus on doing God’s will.” When our cir-
cumstances change, we must remember
how important it is to continue helping
others, especially through our Christian
ministry.
10. How did one sister adapt to a big change in her
life?
11. How did one couple who faced an economic
setback cope?
12 In our ministry, we need to be flexi-
ble. We meet people who have different
beliefs and attitudes and who come from
a variety of backgrounds. The apostle
Paul was adaptable, and we can learn
from his example. Jesus appointed Paul
as “an apostle to the nations.” (Rom. 11:
13) In that role, Paul preached to Jews,
Greeks, intellectuals, humble peasants,
dignitaries, and kings. In order to reach
the hearts of such a diverse audience,
Paul became “all things to people of all
sorts.” (1 Cor. 9:19-23) He paid atten-
tion to the culture, background, and be-
liefs of his audience and adapted his ap-
proach accordingly. We too can be more
effective in our ministry if we are re-
sourceful and adjust our approach to fit
the needs of our listeners.
RESPECT THE VIEWS OF OTHERS
13 Reasonableness also helps us to re-
spect the views of others. For exam-
ple, some of our sisters like to wear
makeup, whereas others prefer not to.
Some Christians enjoy drinking alco-
hol in moderation, but others decide
to abstain from it. All Christians desire
good health but choose different meth-
ods of health care. If we felt so strong-
ly about our own choices that we tried
to promote them in the congregation,
we could stumble others and cause divi-
sions. We would certainly not want to
do that! (Read 1 Corinthians 8:9; 10:
23, 24) Let us consider two examples
that illustrate how applying Scriptural
12. How can the apostle Paul’s example help us
adapt to changing circumstances in our ministry?
13. What danger described at 1 Corinthians 8:9
can we avoid if we respect the views of others?
JULY 2023 23

principles can help us to be balanced
and to maintain peace.
14 Dress and grooming. Instead of
strictly regulating the way we dress, Je-
hovah has given us principles to follow.
We are to dress in a way that is appropri-
ate for ministers of God, showing rea-
sonableness, modesty, and “soundness
of mind.” (1 Tim. 2:9, 10; 1 Pet. 3:3)
Therefore, we do not draw undue at-
tention to ourselves by how we dress.
Bible principles will also help elders to
avoid setting arbitrary rules about cloth-
ing and hairstyles. For example, elders in
one congregation wanted to help some
young brothers who had adopted a pop-
ular hairstyle that was short but com-
pletely unkempt. How could the elders
help them without making a rule? The
14. What Bible principles should govern our dress
and grooming?
24 THE WATCHTOWER
If we are reasonable, we will
respect the views of others
(See paragraphs 13-16)
circuit overseer advised the elders to tell
the brothers, “If you are on the platform
and the audience is paying more atten-
tion to how you look than to what you
are saying, there is a problem with your
dress and grooming.” This simple ex-
planation resolved the issue without the
need to make a rule.1
15 Health care. Each Christian must de-
cide how to care for his own health.
(Gal. 6:5) Only a few specific Bible
laws, such as the commands to abstain
from blood and from spiritism, affect
a Christian’s choice of medical treat-
ment. (Acts 15:20; Gal. 5:19, 20) Oth-
er areas are matters of personal prefer-
ence. Some individuals look exclusively
1 For additional information on dress and grooming, see
lesson 52 in the Enjoy Life Forever! book.
15. What Bible laws and principles guide us in our
choice of health care? (Romans 14:5)
 to the medical community for their
health care, while others prefer alterna-
tive forms of treatment. No matter how
strongly we feel about a form of treat-
ment, we need to respect the right of
our brothers and sisters to make their
own health-care decisions. In this re-
gard, we should keep the following
points in mind: (1) Only God’s King-
dom will bring complete and permanent
healing. (Isa. 33:24) (2) Each Christian
must be “fully convinced” of what is best
for him. (Read Romans 14:5.) (3) We
do not judge others or put a stum-
bling block before them. (Rom. 14:13)
(4) Christians show love and do not put
their freedom to make personal choices
ahead of the unity of the congregation.
(Rom. 14:15, 19, 20) If we keep these
points in mind, we will maintain a close
relationship with our brothers and sis-
ters and contribute to the peace of the
congregation.
16 Elders must set a good example in
16. How can an elder show reasonableness in his
dealings with fellow elders? (See also pictures.)
HOW WOULD YOU ANSWER?
˛ What do we learn from ˛ How will being reasonable
Jehovah and Jesus about help us when our circum-
being reasonable? stances change?
being reasonable. (1 Tim. 3:2, 3) For in-
stance, an elder should not expect that
his opinions will always be accepted sim-
ply because he is older than the other el-
ders. He realizes that Jehovah’s spirit
can move any member of the body to
make an expression that contributes to a
wise decision. And if no Bible principle
is violated, reasonable elders willingly
support the decision of the majority on
the body, even if they had preferred a
different decision.
THE BENEFITS OF
BEING REASONABLE
17 Christians reap many blessings by
being reasonable. We enjoy better rela-
tionships with our brothers and sisters,
and the congregation enjoys peace. We
find delight in the beautiful variety of
personalities and customs among Jeho-
vah’s united worshippers. Above all, we
have the satisfaction of knowing that
we are imitating our reasonable God,
Jehovah.
17. Christians who are reasonable enjoy what
blessings?
˛ How will our reasonableness
contribute to the peace of
the congregation?
SONG 90
Encourage One Another
 LIFE STORY
Personal Interest
Brings Lifelong
Blessings
AS TOLD BY RUSSELL REID
“THE Anglican Church does not teach
the truth. Keep looking for it.” After
my Anglican grandmother said this,
my mother started looking for the
true religion. However, she ignored
Jehovah’s Witnesses and told me to
hide when they came to our home in
Toronto, Canada. But when my
mother’s younger sister began to
study with the Witnesses in 1950, my
mother joined her. They studied at
my aunt’s house and later got
baptized.
26 THE WATCHTOWER
Dad was an elder in the local United
Church of Canada, so each week he sent my
sister and me to Sunday school, after which
we joined him for the 11:00 a.m. church ser-
vice. In the afternoon, we went with Mom
to the Kingdom Hall. We could easily see the
difference between the two religions.
Mother shared her new beliefs with her
longtime friends Bob and Marion Hutcheson,
who also accepted the truth. In 1958 the
Hutchesons took me along with their three
boys to the eight-day Divine Will Internation-
al Assembly in New York City. Looking back, I
now realize what an effort it must have been
for them to include me, but that assembly
was one of the highlights of my life.
PERSONAL INTEREST
INFLUENCED MY FUTURE
During my teen years, we lived on
a farm where I enjoyed caring for animals.
I seriously considered becoming a veteri-
narian. My mother mentioned this to a con-
gregation elder. He kindly reminded me that
we are living in “the last days” and asked
how attending a university for several years
would affect my relationship with Jehovah.
(2 Tim. 3:1) As a result, I decided not to pur-
sue a university education.
 I still wondered what to do after I grad-
uated from high school. Although I shared
in the field service every weekend, I did not
enjoy the ministry and could not see myself
as a pioneer. Meanwhile, my unbelieving fa-
ther and uncle were encouraging me to
work full-time for a leading insurance com-
pany in Toronto. My uncle had a prominent
position there, so I accepted the job.
In Toronto, my constantly working over- A
time and associating with unbelievers kept
me from being regular in spiritual activities.
I lived with my non-Witness grandfather at
first, but after he died, I needed another
place to live.
The Hutchesons, who had taken me to
the 1958 convention, were like parents to
me. They invited me to live in their home
and helped me to grow spiritually. In 1960,
along with their son John, I got baptized.
John began to pioneer, prompting me to in-
crease my activity in the ministry. The B
brothers in the congregation noticed my
spiritual progress, and eventually I was ap-
pointed as the Theocratic Ministry School
servant.
A WONDERFUL PARTNER
AND A NEW REALIZATION
In 1966, I married Randi Berge, a zealous
pioneer who was eager to serve where the
need was greater. Our traveling overseer
took a personal interest in us, encouraging
us to help the congregation in Orillia, Ontar-
io. So we packed up and moved.
C
As soon as we arrived in Orillia, I
joined Randi as a regular pioneer. Her en-
thusiasm had already rubbed off on me! A. With my mother and sister, Pat,
Once I put my heart into pioneering, I expe- in 1948
rienced the joy of using the Bible and see- B. During the 1958 Divine Will
ing people grasp the truth. What a blessing International Assembly with the
it was to help a wonderful couple in Orillia Hutcheson family
make changes in their lives and become C. On our wedding day in 1966
servants of Jehovah.
 Now known as the Life and Ministry Meeting overseer.

The “White House” in Rimouski
A CHANGE OF LANGUAGE
AND OF THINKING
During a visit to Toronto, I met Arnold
MacNamara, who was one of the brothers
taking the lead at Bethel. He asked if we
would like to special pioneer. I immediately
responded: “Absolutely! Anywhere but Que-
bec!” I had been influenced by the negative
feelings of English-speaking Canada about
the social unrest in the French-speaking
province of Quebec. At the time, a political
movement in Quebec advocated separation
from the rest of Canada.
Arnold replied, “Quebec is the only place
where the branch is sending special pio-
neers at this time.” I immediately agreed to
go. I already knew that Randi was interest-
ed in serving there. Later, I realized that this
was one of the best decisions of our life!
After attending a five-week French class,
Randi and I along with another couple went
to Rimouski, about 540 kilometers (336 mi)
northeast of Montreal. We still had a lot to
learn, which became very evident at a meet-
ing when I read some announcements. I
said that at our upcoming convention, we
28 THE WATCHTOWER
would have many “ostrich delegates” in-
stead of “Austrian delegates.”
In Rimouski, the four of us were joined by
four zealous single sisters as well as the
Huberdeaus and their two daughters. The
Huberdeaus subsidized the rental of a
seven-bedroom pioneer home that we
called the White House because of its white
pillars and facade. We usually had between
12 and 14 people living there. As special
pioneers, Randi and I were out preaching in
the mornings, afternoons, and evenings, so
we appreciated having someone always
available to accompany us in service—even
on cold winter evenings.
We grew so close to those faithful pio-
neers that they became like family to us.
Sometimes we sat around a campfire to-
gether or we had a “pierogi day,” a day
when we all made dumplings with different
fillings. One of the brothers was a musician,
so on Saturday nights we often sang and
danced.
The territory in Rimouski bore fruit! With-
in five years, we had the joy of seeing sever-
al Bible students progress to baptism. The
congregation grew to about 35 publishers.
In Quebec, we received excellent training
as evangelizers. We saw how Jehovah
helped us in the ministry and with our ma-
terial needs. In addition, we learned to love
the French-speaking people, their language,
and their culture—which led to our loving
other cultures too.—2 Cor. 6:13.
Unexpectedly, the branch asked us
to move to the town of Tracadie, on the
eastern shore of New Brunswick. This pre-
sented a challenge because we had just
signed a lease on an apartment and I had a
part-time teaching contract with the school
board. In addition, some of our Bible stu-
dents had just become publishers and we
were right in the middle of building a King-
dom Hall.
 We prayed all weekend about the move
and visited Tracadie, which was quite differ-
ent from Rimouski. But we resolved that
since Jehovah wanted us there, we would
go. We put Jehovah to the test and saw
him remove each of the obstacles. (Mal. 3:
10) As always, Randi’s solid spirituality, self-
sacrificing spirit, and sense of humor eased
the challenge of moving.
The only elder in our new congregation
was Robert Ross. He had pioneered there
with his wife, Linda, and they decided to stay
after their first child was born. Even while
caring for a little boy, they greatly encour-
aged Randi and me by their warm reception,
determination, and zealous ministry.
THE BLESSINGS OF SERVING
WHEREVER NEEDED
After we pioneered in Tracadie for two
years, we again received an unexpected
surprise—an invitation to serve in the trav-
eling work. We served English circuits for
seven years, after which we were reassigned
to a French circuit in Quebec. Our district
overseer in Quebec, Léonce Crépeault,
would commend me on my talks. But later
D E
he would always ask, “How could they be
more practical?” This personal attention
helped me to focus on making my teaching
more specific and down-to-earth.
One of my most memorable assignments
was the one I had at the 1978 “Victorious
Faith” International Convention in Montreal.
I worked in Food Service. We were expect-
ing 80,000 people, and a new feeding ar-
rangement had been implemented. Every-
thing was completely new: the equipment,
the menu, and the method of preparation. We
had about 20 large refrigerated trailers,
which sometimes malfunctioned. Before the
start of the first day, we could not even enter
the stadium to set up until midnight because
of a previously scheduled sporting event.
And we had to start the ovens before day-
break to make breakfast! We were tired, but
I learned much from the hard work, maturity,
and sense of humor of my fellow volunteers.
We bonded, resulting in friendships that have
lasted to this day. What a joy to experience
this landmark convention in Quebec, the very
 See Léonce Crépeault’s life story in the February 2020
issue of The Watchtower, pp. 26-30.
D. Winter during our
first circuit
E. Doing preconvention
work with Randi in
Montreal in 1985
JULY 2023 29

province where there was bitter persecution
during the 1940’s and 1950’s!
I learned a lot from my fellow overseers
during our large Montreal conventions. One
year, David Splane, who now serves on the
Governing Body, oversaw the convention of-
fice. At a later convention when I was asked
to handle that assignment, David fully co-
operated.
In 2011, after we had enjoyed 36 years in
the traveling work, I was invited to serve
as an instructor in the School for Congre-
gation Elders. Randi and I slept in 75 differ-
ent beds within two years, but it was worth
every sacrifice. At the end of each week,
the elders were overcome with gratitude be-
cause they saw how much the Governing
Body cares about the elders’ spirituality.
Later, I taught the School for Kingdom
Evangelizers. The students often felt over-
whelmed with the busy schedule: sitting in
class for about seven hours a day, doing
homework for three hours each evening,
and handling four or five assignments per
week. The other instructor and I explained
that they could not do it unless they had Je-
hovah’s help. I will always remember how sur-
prised the students were to see that by rely-
ing on Jehovah, they were able to accomplish
far more than they thought possible.
30 THE WATCHTOWER
PERSONAL INTEREST BRINGS
LONG-LASTING BLESSINGS
My mother’s personal interest in others
aided her Bible students to progress and
even helped my dad to soften toward the
truth. Three days after she died, he sur-
prised us by coming to a public talk at the
Kingdom Hall, and he continued to attend
meetings for the next 26 years. Although
Dad never got baptized, the elders told me
that he was always the first one to arrive at
meetings each week.
My mother also made a lasting impres-
sion on her children. All three of my sisters
and their husbands serve Jehovah faithfully.
Two sisters serve at branch offices—one in
Portugal and another in Haiti.
Randi and I now serve as special pio-
neers in Hamilton, Ontario. When we were
in the traveling work, we enjoyed accom-
panying others on their return visits and
Bible studies. But now we delight to see our
own students progress spiritually. And as
we bond with the brothers and sisters in our
new congregation, we feel encouraged to
see how Jehovah supports them through
good times and bad times.
Looking back, we deeply appreciate the
personal interest that so many showed to
us. In turn, we have tried to express “ear-
nest concern” for others, encouraging them
to reach their full spiritual potential. (2 Cor.
7:6, 7) In one family, for example, the wife,
son, and daughter were all in full-time ser-
vice. I asked the husband if he had ever
thought about pioneering. He replied that
he was supporting three pioneers. So I
asked, “Can you support them better than
Jehovah can?” I encouraged him to enjoy
what they were enjoying. He was a pioneer
within six months.
Randi and I will continue to “tell the next
generation” about Jehovah’s “wonderful
works,” and we hope that they will enjoy his
service as much as we have.—Ps. 71:17, 18.
 DID YOU KNOW?

How do bricks and brickmaking methods discovered among

the ruins of ancient Babylon support the Bible record?
ARCHAEOLOGISTS have unearthed in an- erected a huge image made of gold on the
cient Babylon enormous numbers of baked plain of Dura—outside the city of Babylon.
bricks that were used to build the city. Ac- When three young Hebrew men named Sha-
cording to archaeologist Robert Koldewey, drach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to
such bricks were produced in furnaces lo- bow down to the image, Nebuchadnezzar
cated “outside the town, where the clay is became enraged, ordered that a furnace be
good and fuel . . . is abundant.” heated “seven times hotter than usual,” and
Ancient records reveal that Babylonian of- had the three men “thrown into the burning
ficials also used their furnaces for a more fiery furnace.” A powerful angel saved them
sinister purpose. Paul-Alain Beaulieu, pro- from certain death.—Dan. 3:1-6, 19-28.
fessor of Assyriology at the University of To- The Babylonian bricks themselves also
ronto, says: “Several Babylonian sources . . . support the Bible record. Among them are
chronicle the burning of individuals upon many that include stamped inscriptions
royal command for crimes of rebellion and praising the king. One such inscription
sacrilege.” A text from the days of King Neb- reads: “Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon
uchadnezzar issues the following sentence: . . . The palace, the dwelling place of my
“Destroy them, burn them, roast them, . . . Majesty I built . . . May my posterity bear
to the cook’s oven . . . make their smoke bil- rule in it for ever.” This inscription closely re-
low, bring about their fiery end with the sembles the statement recorded at Daniel
fierce flame.” 4:30, in which Nebuchadnezzar boasted: “Is
This reminds Bible readers of the events this not Babylon the Great that I myself have
recorded in Daniel chapter 3. According to built for the royal house by my own strength
that historical record, King Nebuchadnezzar and might and for the glory of my majesty?”

A baked brick with

Nebuchadnezzar’s name
stamped on it

˘ The Trustees of the British Museum. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/).
Source: https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/W1979-1220-311
34567 ˙

July 2023  Vol. 144, No. 8 ENGLISH STUDY TIP

Set Priorities
We all have a limited amount of time for per-
IN THIS ISSUE sonal study. How can we make the best use
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
of it? First, take your time. You will actually
Study Article 29: September 11-17 2 benefit more by studying a little material
carefully than by skimming through a lot of
Are You Ready for the Great Tribulation?
material.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Then, set some priorities. (Eph. 5:15, 16)
Study Article 30: September 18-24 8 Consider these suggestions:
Keep Growing in Your Love
˙ Read the Bible every day. (Ps. 1:2) Our
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ weekly Bible reading schedule for the
Study Article 31: September 25–October 1 14 midweek meeting is an excellent starting
point.
“Be Steadfast, Immovable”
˙ Prepare for the Watchtower Study and the
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
midweek meeting. Be ready to comment.
Study Article 32: October 2-8 20 —Ps. 22:22.
Imitate Jehovah—Be Reasonable ˙ As you have the time, keep up-to-date
with other spiritual food, such as our public
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
magazines, videos, and material published
LIFE STORY 26 on jw.org.
Personal Interest Brings Lifelong Blessings ˙ Do a study project. You could do research
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
on a challenge you are facing, a question
you have, or a Bible topic you would like to
DID YOU KNOW? 31 understand better. To get ideas, review the
How do bricks and brickmaking methods “Bible Study Activities” section on jw.org.
discovered among the ruins of ancient Babylon
support the Bible record?
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Study Tip 32

COVER PICTURE:
Barak and his men courageously charged
This publication is not for sale. It is provided as part of a worldwide after Sisera’s army (See study article 31,
Bible educational work supported by voluntary donations. To make paragraph 18)
a donation, please visit donate.jw.org.
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations are from the Visit the jw.org website, or scan code
modern-language New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures.

s
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tower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc.; Harold L. Corkern, Pres-
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NY 12589-3299, and by Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Canada,
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