Let's look for hidden gems (10 mins.)
Pr 22:29. How can we apply this proverb when we carry out congregational activities? And what benefits do we gain? (w21.08 22 par. 11)
We can feel greater joy if we give our all in any assignment we receive in our service to Jehovah. Let us dedicate ourselves fully to the preaching work and participate fully in congregation activities.
Let us prepare ourselves well to encourage others with our responses at the meetings. Let us take seriously any student assignments we have at the midweek meeting. If we are asked to help with some work in the congregation, let us be punctual and reliable.
Let us not think that certain tasks are of little importance or unworthy of our time. Let us strive to improve our abilities. The more engaged we are in our spiritual activities and responsibilities, the faster we will progress and the more joy we will feel. And it will be easier for us to rejoice when others receive a responsibility we would have liked to have.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
By giving our best in tasks such as the preaching work and our assignments, we demonstrate our devotion. This makes us more skilled in Jehovah's service, which brings us greater joy and allows our spiritual progress to continue.
If we are punctual and reliable in every task, no matter how small it may seem, we improve our skills. This allows us to experience greater happiness in serving Jehovah and rejoicing in others.
We can apply this by striving to do everything with excellence for Jehovah. For example, by preparing well to give edifying comments at meetings; by taking every assignment seriously, whether it's a demonstration, a talk, or some practical work; by being punctual, responsible, and reliable when given a task; and by constantly seeking to improve our spiritual skills, such as reading, teaching, or interacting with others.
We feel greater joy and satisfaction when we serve Jehovah wholeheartedly. We progress more quickly spiritually. This helps us to have a humble spirit and rejoice in the accomplishments of others, rather than comparing ourselves. We gain the trust of our brothers and sisters, and over time, Jehovah may grant us greater privileges in his organization.
Sometimes seemingly minor tasks—such as arranging chairs, cleaning the Kingdom Hall, or helping with small logistical details—can seem insignificant. However, when we perform them with diligence and a positive attitude, we demonstrate that we value every opportunity to serve Jehovah. This effort does not go unnoticed, neither by Jehovah nor by the congregation.
When we participate in the congregation with seriousness and effort—whether on an assignment, cleaning the Hall, or preaching—we show diligence, as Proverbs 22:29 says. This brings us joy, makes us grow spiritually, and shows that we value serving Jehovah with all we have.
A practical way to apply this proverb is to prepare well for each meeting. Even if we have little time, if we set aside a moment to review the material and think of a good response, we are being diligent. This not only benefits us, but also encourages the entire congregation.
We also apply it when we gladly accept seemingly small tasks, such as helping with microphones or distributing literature. If we do it carefully and punctually, we are showing that we are trustworthy. Over time, this attitude can lead to being entrusted with more responsibilities.
We apply it when we are punctual, reliable, and willing to help with practical congregational tasks, such as cleaning the Kingdom Hall or organizing conventions. This shows that we value even the simplest tasks and want to perform them with excellence, as if they were for Jehovah Himself.
Another benefit is that we develop a humble and mature attitude, which allows us to genuinely rejoice when others receive privileges we may have desired. Since we are striving to please Jehovah and not for human recognition, we learn to appreciate the progress of others without envy or discouragement.
We can put this into practice by striving to improve our skills in every task assigned to us in the congregation. This includes preparing well for our assignments, speaking at meetings, being punctual and reliable when asked for help, and dedicating ourselves diligently to the preaching work and other spiritual activities. Likewise, we put this into practice by not underestimating any work in the congregation, no matter how small it may seem, because by devoting time, being diligent, and thankful, we honor Jehovah.
If we apply this proverb, we will progress more quickly spiritually and feel profound joy. And by being fully engaged in our sacred responsibilities, it will be easier for us to rejoice when others receive the assignments we perhaps desired, because we will be cultivating a spirit of humility and Christian unity.
What spiritual pearls have you found in this week's Bible reading?
Proverbs 22:1. A good name or reputation is so valuable that, in some countries, it is legally protected, among other things, against libel, that is, false accusations made in writing, and against slander, false accusations made verbally. According to Psalm 15:1-5, the qualities of people who can reside in Jehovah's tent are mentioned; these include justice, speaking the truth, and so on. Who wouldn't respect someone who lived in harmony with these principles?
Proverbs 22:7. Although the Bible recognizes that money is a protection, it also warns us that money alone cannot bring us happiness. Therefore, the Bible tells us not to love money and gives us this advice: "Be content with the things you have." When we are content or satisfied with what we have, we are freed from the frustration of always striving for more. We also avoid unnecessary debt and the dangers of gambling for money or chasing get-rich-quick opportunities.
Proverbs 22:11. Although the terms "pure" and "clean" in the Scriptures sometimes have a literal meaning, at other times they apply to everything that is morally or ceremonially unadulterated, uncorrupted, and unclean. For example, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls blessed those who are "pure in heart," that is, those who are clean inwardly and free from hypocrisy. These people have pure feelings, desires, and motives, and their hearts are full of love and gratitude to Jehovah. Don't we all desire that kind of purity?
Proverbs 22:14. The prostitute and the "mouth of strange women" are said to be a "deep pit," for such women often ensnare men with persuasive speech. Therefore, we must ask Jehovah to help us avoid falling into this trap.
Proverbs 22:17. We all need advice from time to time. Sometimes we ask for advice from someone we respect. In other cases, a brother or sister may be concerned about us and point out that we are about to take a "false step"—that is, about to do something we would later regret. Or perhaps the advice comes when we are corrected after making a serious mistake. Either way, we should listen to advice because it is for our own good and can save our lives.
Proverbs 22:22. “Crushing the afflicted at the gate” denoted judicial corruption, as it involved legal matters. Someone who “hated a censer at the gate” meant that a person hated the judge who had corrected or condemned them. Those who “lay snares to catch the censer at the gate” were those who tried to get the judges to pervert judgment through bribery or other pressure, or who sought to ensnare a prophet standing at the gate to censure them.
Proverbs 22:24. Another way to slow down anger is to watch what we feed our minds. Many television programs are loaded with violence. It's true that many people believe that the violence depicted on television and in movies only affects those already prone to that behavior. However, a research team claims that it "tends to affect all viewers." For this reason, we must be careful about what we watch to avoid falling into the same trap.
Proverbs 22:25. If we associate with people who have angry outbursts, we're likely to end up acting the same way. We must be careful who we associate with.
Proverbs 22:26. The custom of a debtor leaving something as collateral to his creditor as security was strictly regulated in the Law. As trade progressed in Israel, the number of people who stood surety for others in commercial matters also increased. Proverbs warned of how dangerous and foolish this was, especially when, in doing so, the person risked his essential means of livelihood.
Proverbs 22:1. To have a good name before Jehovah and before humans, we must live in harmony with biblical principles. We must demonstrate humility, giving Jehovah honor for what we know. Our Christian conduct is more valuable than any material gain, for it glorifies Jehovah.
Proverbs 22:3. As Jehovah's servants, we are prudent in avoiding morally dangerous situations at work or school. We stay away from bad company and entertainment that can harm us spiritually.
Proverbs 22:4. Jehovah's example of humility also helps us. He exercises mercy and compassion on sinners. Yes, even to the point of providing his Son as a sacrifice for man's sins. If Jehovah, the greatest person in the universe, is humble, shouldn't we, who are insignificant creatures, be humble too?
Proverbs 22:6. As Jehovah's Witness parents, we strive to provide our children with sound spiritual training from a young age. We instill in them a love for Jehovah and his standards, helping them remain faithful throughout their lives. We recognize that they face difficult situations every day, but Jehovah's instructions help them remain steadfast.
Proverbs 22:7. We seek to be balanced with our finances, avoiding unnecessary debt. This gives us greater freedom to serve Jehovah fully, without being enslaved by financial worries and thus preventing us from participating in the work of preaching the Kingdom.
Proverbs 22:11. Maintaining a pure heart and using kind and pleasant words is crucial when preaching or teaching Bible courses. This allows us to effectively connect with interested people and win their hearts for the truth, pleasing our King, Jesus Christ.
Proverbs 22:24-25. When choosing our friends—especially at work or with neighbors—we are very selective and cautious. We stay away from people who display a bad temper or anger so as not to imitate their bad habits and jeopardize our precious spirituality.
Proverbs 22:10. The presence of contentious and mocking people can cause division and tension. This verse teaches us that by distancing ourselves from those who promote conflict, we can maintain an atmosphere of peace. Good company is key to Christian unity.
Proverbs 22:7. This verse warns us about the consequences of going into debt. Debt can jeopardize our freedom and peace of mind. Jehovah encourages us to be prudent financially and to avoid situations that make us unnecessarily dependent on others.
Proverbs 22:6. This verse shows us the importance of training children in Jehovah's ways from a young age. Early teachings leave a profound mark that can guide them throughout their lives, even if they face trials or negative influences.
Proverbs 22:3. Wisdom includes anticipating problems and taking preventive measures. A shrewd Christian recognizes spiritual temptations and dangers before they affect them and acts to protect themselves. This may mean avoiding certain friendships, entertainment, or situations that put our spirituality at risk.
Proverbs 22:1. The text reminds us that reputation and integrity are more valuable than any material possession. This verse encourages us to cultivate a good name before Jehovah and others by being honest, trustworthy, and kind. A good spiritual reputation is a lasting inheritance.
Proverbs 22:9. Generosity activates Jehovah's blessings. Sharing with those in need—not only material possessions, but also time and attention—reflects Christian love.
Proverbs 22:24. This counsel warns us about the danger of surrounding ourselves with impulsive or aggressive people. Their influence can be powerful, and a bad friendship could lead us to imitate attitudes that displease Jehovah. Choosing our friends wisely is a spiritual protection.
Proverbs 22:13. This verse exposes the ridiculous excuses laziness invents to avoid responsibilities. It teaches us to recognize and reject justifications that prevent us from being diligent in Jehovah's service and in our daily duties.
Proverbs 22:2. Jehovah is the Creator of both the rich and the poor, and in his eyes all have equal value. This helps us avoid envy toward those who have more and contempt toward those who have less. In the congregation, we are all equal before God, regardless of our economic situation.
Proverbs 22:22, 23. God shows special concern for the vulnerable. These verses remind us that divine justice protects the oppressed and that Jehovah will judge those who abuse their position to exploit others.
Proverbs 22:15. The importance of loving discipline in raising children is highlighted here. Human nature's sinfulness inclines young people toward foolishness, but firm and wise correction can guide them toward the right path. This verse encourages us to use discipline as a tool of love and teaching, not destructive punishment.
Proverbs 22:5. The path of evil is fraught with danger and painful consequences. As Christians, we must stay away from practices and associations that can harm our spirituality. Guarding our soul means protecting our Christian values and principles from the corrupting influences of the world.
Proverbs 22:11. This verse teaches us that a pure heart and kind words win favor with others and with Jehovah. It motivates us to cultivate sincerity and speak kindly in the congregation and in the ministry, to build relationships that reflect God's love and truth.
Proverbs 22:17. This verse shows us that listening to wisdom and diligently applying it benefits us spiritually. It encourages us to study Jehovah's Word carefully and put its teachings into practice, strengthening our faith and becoming more effective in our ministerial service.
Proverbs 22:8. Unjust actions inevitably bring negative consequences. Just as a farmer reaps what he sows, those who act wickedly will face the results of their actions. This reminds us that we must sow kindness, justice, and love to reap blessings from Jehovah.
Proverbs 22:1. This verse reminds me that what others think of me—especially Jehovah—is more valuable than having a lot of money. If I strive to be honest, humble, and faithful, that is more valuable than any bank account, because a good reputation cannot be bought with money and can open many doors.
Proverbs 22:3. This text teaches me not to act thoughtlessly. When I see a situation that could harm me physically, emotionally, or spiritually, it's wise to walk away. Jehovah wants us to be cautious, to think about the consequences before acting, and in this way we avoid many problems.
Proverbs 22:4. This verse reminds me that when we are humble and sincerely respect Jehovah, He takes it upon Himself to bless us. This doesn't just refer to material riches, but to having a full life, with peace, honor, and His approval. Humility helps us accept correction and improve, and the fear of Jehovah guides us to do what is right, which always brings good results.
Proverbs 22:6. Here we learn that what we teach children from a young age is engraved in their hearts. If we guide them with love and patience, using biblical principles, even as they grow older and face pressures, those teachings will give them direction and protection. It's like planting a seed that will bear fruit over time.
Proverbs 22:7. This text makes me think about how important it is to avoid unnecessary debt. When we depend on others financially, we lose freedom. That's why it's wise to live with what we have, without comparing ourselves, and to put our trust in Jehovah, who never fails us.
Proverbs 22:9. Here, it's emphasized that being generous brings blessings. It doesn't matter how much we have; the important thing is having the desire to help. When we share what we have with love, Jehovah sees it and rewards us, not only with material things, but with joy and satisfaction.
Proverbs 22:24-25. This advice reminds me how important it is to choose our friends wisely. If we spend time with people who get angry easily or are aggressive, we could end up imitating those attitudes. It's better to surround ourselves with people who transmit peace and respect. That helps us become better people too.
Proverbs 22:2. This verse emphasizes that both the rich and the poor share equal dignity before God, for Jehovah was the One who created both. No social position grants superior value in the divine Kingdom. Therefore, we must cultivate sincere humility, recognizing that every brother, regardless of his wealth or status, has inestimable value before Jehovah. In the congregation, this translates into showing appreciation and respect for all equally, offering practical support to those in need, and avoiding all prejudices that divide the Christian brotherhood.
Proverbs 22:4. This proverb teaches us that when a person is humble and deeply respects Jehovah, he or she receives lasting blessings. This is not just about material wealth, but about true spiritual wealth: a life of purpose, inner peace, and God's favor.
Proverbs 22:7. The text does not condemn having wealth, but it does show that those who possess it can dominate those most in need. Therefore, if one has resources, one should use them with justice and mercy, not to oppress. And if one has less, it is important to work hard, manage well what little one has, and trust in Jehovah, so as not to depend on men.
Proverbs 22:9. This verse shows that Jehovah values those who help the poor without expecting anything in return. Sincere generosity brings blessings, not only material blessings, but also inner peace and divine approval. Jehovah observes and rewards a heart that is willing to share.
Proverbs 22:14. Let us avoid all forms of immorality, not only in actions, but also in words, entertainment, and thoughts. And, above all, let us always seek Jehovah's approval, praying for his spirit for wisdom and self-control. This way, we will avoid falling into traps that can destroy our spirituality.
Proverbs 22:19. The knowledge we receive from God is not empty or directionless. Its primary purpose is to lead us to trust Him more each day. Jehovah intends that every teaching we learn will strengthen our relationship with Him.
Proverbs 22:16. As Jehovah's servants, we must avoid all forms of injustice, even those that seem socially acceptable. Let us be people of integrity, both in our financial decisions and in our personal relationships. Jehovah sees our motives and always rewards those who act with honesty and compassion.
Proverbs 22:6. This advice highlights the importance of early instruction in God's principles. Imparting biblical values from childhood creates a firm foundation that guides future decisions. Parents and older siblings can use Bible stories, practical examples, and family prayers to instill in children a love for Jehovah and the importance of obeying his commandments. Thus, when they face challenges, they will remember the principles they have learned and remain steadfast on the path.
Proverbs 22:24. A true friend brings us closer to Jehovah and helps us improve. But an angry friend can distance us from the example of Jesus, who was meek and humble of heart. It is wise to choose friends who reflect the gentle spirit that Jehovah values.
Proverbs 22:7. This proverb reminds us of the real consequences of going into debt without the ability to repay. Excessive debt can lead to the loss of essential things, even things we need to rest or live with dignity. Jehovah wants us to be wise and responsible in managing our money.
Proverbs 22:1-2. These verses teach us that our reputation and the respect we show in our lives are more important than any material possessions. Furthermore, we are reminded that both the rich and the poor are Jehovah's creation, which urges us to view everyone equally and with love.
Proverbs 22:3. This verse shows us the importance of prudence and wisdom in being cautious and avoiding danger, since in this way we demonstrate that we trust in Jehovah's guidance.
Proverbs 22:3. This verse shows that the Bible calls those who ignore Jehovah's warnings, for example, when making important decisions, "inexperienced." It teaches us that ignoring these warnings has serious consequences. Therefore, we must be humble and always seek his guidance.
Proverbs 22:4. In this verse, we are told that humility and the fear of Jehovah lead to wealth, glory, and life. This reminds us that true wealth is not measured in material terms, but in the blessing of a full life and a good relationship with Jehovah.
Proverbs 22:5, 6. These verses advise us to avoid the traps of the crooked path and to raise children in the right way. This underscores the importance of instruction and discipline from an early age, so that young people grow up with a right heart and a mind that imitates Jehovah's way of thinking.
Proverbs 22:7. This verse warns us about the danger of debt, as it can lead us to slavery. It teaches us to be wise in our financial decisions and to depend on Jehovah, rather than falling into the debt trap.
Proverbs 22:8, 9. Here we are reminded that justice and generosity are rewarded. Sowing injustice brings misfortune, while being generous and sharing with those in need brings blessing. This motivates us to be compassionate and help others, following Jehovah's example.
Proverbs 22:11. This verse highlights the importance of purity of heart and kind words, as these qualities allow us to gain the friendship of others, even those in positions of authority. It teaches us the importance of being sincere and kind in our relationships.
Proverbs 22:13-14. In these verses, we are warned about laziness and the wayward woman. While the lazy man makes excuses to avoid work, the wayward woman represents a danger to those who are not faithful to Jehovah. This reminds us of the importance of diligence and faithfulness in our daily lives.
Proverbs 22:15. This verse teaches us that discipline is necessary to correct the foolishness of young people. It underscores the importance of loving instruction and correction to guide them on the right path.
Proverbs 22:16, 22, 23. These verses warn us against the oppression of the poor and corruption. They also teach that Jehovah defends the needy and punishes those who oppress them. This motivates us to act with justice and compassion in all our actions.
Proverbs 22:24-25. Here we are advised to avoid the company of ill-tempered people. It teaches us to be careful in our relationships, so as not to be influenced by those who might lead us down a path disapproved by Jehovah.
Proverbs 22:26. This verse warns us against the imprudence of being guarantors for loans. It reminds us of the importance of being wise in our financial decisions and not committing ourselves beyond our means.
Proverbs 22:27. Jehovah advises us to be prudent in our finances and not to take on debts we cannot repay, nor to commit ourselves to others without the means. By giving us these kinds of warnings, Jehovah guides us to avoid situations of distress and loss, demonstrating that he cares about our material and emotional well-being and wants us to act wisely to protect ourselves from difficulties.
Proverbs 22:28. This verse speaks of how, in ancient times, moving property lines was a form of stealing and harming others. Today, Jehovah expects us to respect the property and rights of others, as well as established principles. It teaches us not to be dishonest and reminds us that Jehovah is a God of order, who expects his servants to act with integrity in all their actions.
Proverbs 22:29. This verse shows that skill and hard work are rewarded, even by human authorities. It encourages us to be diligent and competent in our daily work, as this allows us to honor Jehovah with what we do.
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