DAILY TEXT, Today Tuesday, September 17, 2024,  Remember the poor (Gal. 2:10).

Let us examine the Scriptures every day 2024

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Remember the poor (Gal. 2:10).

The apostle Paul encouraged his brothers to show love by doing “good works.” (Heb. 10:24) He helped them not only with his words but also with his actions. For example, when the Christians in Judea were experiencing a time of famine, Paul was one of those who went to bring them relief. (Acts 11:27-30) In fact, even though he was very busy preaching and teaching, he always looked for ways to help Christians who were poor. In this way he strengthened the brothers’ confidence that Jehovah would care for them. Today we too build the faith of our brothers when we use our time, energy, and abilities in relief efforts and when we regularly make donations to the worldwide work. In these and other ways, we help the brothers to trust that Jehovah will never abandon them. w22.08 24 § 14.

How should we treat those who have become spiritually weakened?

Paul did not give up on those who had become spiritually weak. He showed compassion and spoke to them in a positive and loving way (Heb. 6:9; 10:39). For example, in his Letter to the Hebrews, he often spoke to them in terms of “we,” not “you,” to indicate that he too needed to apply the advice he gave (Heb. 2:1, 3). Like Paul, we do not give up on those who have become spiritually weak. On the contrary, we show our interest in building them up and thus confirming our love for them. Let us remember that the words we say to them are important, but so is the tenderness and affection with which we speak.

Paul confirmed to his brothers that Jehovah had not forgotten their good works. (Heb. 10:32–34) We can do something similar when we try to help a brother who has become spiritually weak. We can ask him to tell us how he learned the truth or help him recall times when he saw Jehovah’s hand. Let us use these opportunities to assure him that Jehovah has not forgotten his past love and that he will not abandon him in the future. (Heb. 6:10; 13:5, 6) These conversations can stir up in our dear brothers a desire to continue serving Jehovah.

How can we become more effective in building up others?

As time goes by, a construction worker becomes more skilled. We too can become more efficient in building others. Let us strengthen our brothers so they can endure trials by telling them about the endurance of other servants of Jehovah. Let us foster peace by saying the good things we see in others, protecting peace when it is in danger, and restoring it when disagreements arise. And let us continue to build up the faith of our brothers by talking with them about important Bible truths, giving them practical help, and supporting those who are spiritually weak.

What are you determined to do?

Those who participate in the construction of places of worship feel fulfilled and happy. We can feel the same when we collaborate in the spiritual edification of our brothers and sisters. Unlike a building, which eventually deteriorates, the results of our labor can last forever. So let us do our best to put into practice the words of 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Continue encouraging one another and building one another up.”

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