Let's search the scriptures every 2021
Wednesday, December 22, 2021
The trustworthy person knows how to maintain trust (11:13).
Elders in particular must follow this principle. They know not to reveal the “confidential conversations” of the brothers in the congregation. If they did, they would lose other people's trust and damage their reputation. Those with responsibilities in the congregation cannot be "false" or "false" (1 Timothy 3:8; footnote). That is, they must not deceive others or be inclined to gossip. If an elder loves his wife, he won't burden her with information she doesn't need to know. An elder's wife can help maintain her husband's good reputation. Like? Not pressuring him to talk about confidential things. In this way, she not only supports her husband, but also shows respect for those who have trusted him. Most importantly, it makes Jehovah happy, for thus it contributes to the peace and unity of the congregation (Rom. 14:19). w20.03 22 pars. 13, 14
What lessons do the bad example of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar teach us?
The bad example of Eliphaz, Bildad and Zophar teaches us several lessons. First, that we must not judge our brothers (Matt 7:1-5). Instead, we should listen carefully to them before speaking. Only then will we understand what is happening to them (1 Peter 3:8). Second, when we speak, we must be sure that our words are good and true (Eph 4:25). And third, that Jehovah is very interested in what we say to one another.
What do we learn from Elihu's example?
The fourth man to visit Job was Elihu, a relative of Abraham. As Job and the other men spoke, Elihu listened. Apparently, he paid close attention to what they said, giving Job compassionate but clear advice that would help him change his mind. - Job 33: 1, 6, 17. The most important thing for Elihu was to seek Jehovah's honor, not his own or anyone else's. - Job 32:21, 22; 37:23, 24. His example teaches us that there is a time to be quiet and listen (James 1:19). We also learned that our main concern in counseling should be honoring Jehovah and not ourselves.
How do we show that we appreciate the ability to speak?
We demonstrate our gratitude for Jehovah's ability to speak by following what the Bible says about when to speak and what to say. Inspired by wise King Solomon, "As apples of gold in ornaments of silver, so is the word spoken at the right time" (Prov. 25:11). If we listen carefully to others and think before we speak, our words will be like those golden apples: precious and of great value. So, whether we say a lot or a little, we will encourage others with our words and make Jehovah proud of us (Pr 23:15; Eph 4:29). Without a doubt, there is no better way to show our gratitude for this gift from God.
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