“I intend to remind you of these things always, even though you already know them and are well established in the truth” (2 Pet. 1:12).
1. How did you feel when you learned the truth?
When I learned the truth, I felt deeply grateful and relieved. Knowing that Jehovah is God's name made me feel closer to him and allowed me to develop a beautiful friendship with him. I also felt peace knowing that the dead are not suffering, but unconscious. And knowing the promise that the Earth will be a paradise filled me with hope, because I no longer look to the future with fear, but with the hope of being able to live forever.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
At that time, very few people knew Jehovah's name. So, it was satisfying for me to know his name, and as Isaiah 42:8 says, he doesn't give praise to images, but could directly praise Jehovah and call him by his name. That is a great privilege for me.
For many of us who were bound by traditions, customs, and superstitions, it was a great relief to learn about the condition of the dead. As Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, we know that they are unconscious, that they are in the grave, and therefore can neither harm nor help us. That was a great liberation for me.
Something that moved me deeply was knowing, in particular, that Jehovah promises something very good for the future: a paradise for all. Life isn't simply what we're experiencing today, and that promise will be fulfilled.
Knowing that there is no hell was a great relief for me. I didn't consider myself good enough to enter heaven, nor so bad as to go to hell. So, it was a great relief for me to know that there is no hell and that God isn't as cruel as we've been led to believe.
When I learned the truth, I felt grateful and happy to understand that Jehovah is the only true God and that he deserves all the glory, as Isaiah 42:8 says. This awakened in me a desire to serve him and brought about a change in my life, giving it purpose and peace.
2. Why do we know that even mature Christians can benefit from the basic teachings of the Bible? (2 Peter 1:12, 13)
We know that even mature Christians can benefit from the Bible's basic teachings because they are so valuable, and even if they are already "well established in the truth," these teachings strengthen them and help them remain faithful. The apostle Peter reminded experienced Christians of fundamental principles so they could resist the dangers within the congregation, such as false teachers. This shows that we never cease to need basic truths to remain firm in our faith.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The apostle Peter knew that, although some Christians were spiritually strong, they also needed reminders to remain firm in their faith. Likewise, we today also need these constant reminders to strengthen us and keep our faith strong.
No matter how long we have been in the truth, we cannot neglect our personal study or our attendance at meetings, because, even if we are tired, this is what will help us remain steadfast.
The apostle Peter knew that, although they were well strengthened spiritually and were a strong congregation, problems would come, serious problems. In those congregations at that time, there were many difficulties, just as there are today. Therefore, he wanted to strengthen them so they could emerge victorious from those trials. And although it has been mentioned that they were strong, it is always necessary to continue strengthening ourselves day by day.
A good example is a very interesting book titled Lessons We Learn from the Bible. It highlights qualities such as humility, patience, and faith that we should possess. These are things we already know, but we are reminded of them so that we continue forward and don't remain inactive in our thoughts.
In chapter 3, Peter gave the key to the importance of remembering the basic teachings when he said, "To awaken our ability to think clearly." As we well know, we are imperfect and tend to forget, so we need things repeated to us to stay spiritually strong. The same thing happens with a muscle, which can weaken if not exercised. Therefore, no matter how long we have been in the truth, we need to continue learning the basic teachings.
3. Explain with an example why all Christians should continue to meditate on the basic teachings of the Bible.
All Christians should continue to meditate on the basic teachings of the Bible because, even if we already know them, over time we can find new meanings and applications in them according to our current circumstances.
For example, an experienced cook can prepare more creative dishes using the same basic ingredients as a student. Similarly, a mature Christian can draw deeper and more interesting lessons from the same biblical texts and truths a student is learning. By reflecting on these basic teachings in light of our current responsibilities, we discover new ways to apply them in our lives.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
This paragraph gives us the example of a cook. Even though the ingredients are the same, an experienced cook can prepare more varied and flavorful dishes than a beginner. The same is true of truth: a Bible student learns the basics, but someone who has spent years in the truth can discover new applications of those same texts.
Since we were baptized, our circumstances may have changed due to responsibilities in service. And if we meditate on the basic teachings and consider our current circumstances, we may come up with new ways to apply those teachings.
When we study the Bible, we are compared to a baby who begins to eat baby food and, little by little, learns to know new flavors and trains his palate to digest and assimilate the most appropriate foods. This is also true of Bible studies. When we begin, even if we try to read, meditate, and learn, we must never stop asking Jehovah for understanding and discernment, and he will undoubtedly grant them to us.
Even if we've been in the truth for years, if we've learned to understand some things better, it may have been because our circumstances changed—and everyone's circumstances change. We now have more time to study, and above all, we have the great blessing of the tools Jehovah provides us through his organization. These tools allow even those of us who have been in the Bible for a long time to benefit from the basic truths of the Bible.
JEHOVAH IS THE CREATOR
4. How has learning that Jehovah is the Creator changed our lives?
Learning that Jehovah is the Creator has changed our lives because it has given true meaning to our existence. Knowing that we are not the product of chance, but that we were created by a wise, powerful, and loving God gives us security and peace. Furthermore, by understanding that Jehovah knows us perfectly, knows what is best for us, and desires the best for us, we trust his guidance more and make better decisions.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Knowing that Jehovah created us, knows us, and loves us gives meaning to our lives and gives us confidence in everything he does for us.
The fact is, life has changed all of us. When we began to study the Bible and saw that all those questions we had were being answered, we immediately realized clearly that this was the truth.
Even though we've been in the truth for many years, we continue to learn new things every day. As the psalmist says, the light grows ever brighter. We now realize many things we didn't see so clearly before, and this has changed our lives.
Knowing that Jehovah is the Creator gives meaning to everything, because before, we went on living, but nothing made much sense, and we couldn't find a way. However, when you know that Jehovah is the Creator and understand that by following his rules, you receive what you need, that's when you feel at peace, you feel good, and life takes on true meaning.
When we were children, we may have heard about a trinity, but the truth is, it wasn't something that moved us to action. However, now that we know that Jehovah is Jesus' Father and that he was the one who made everything, when we see a sunset or contemplate nature, we recognize that it is Jehovah's creation. This gives us a close, intimate, and personal relationship with him.
Knowing that we have a Creator and that His name is Jehovah completely changes our lives, because, as Hebrews 3:4 says, “He who built all things is God.” Therefore, this gives us confidence that He has the power and that He will restore everything that is currently happening.
5. What lesson does it teach us to know that Jehovah is the Creator? (Isaiah 45:9-12)
Knowing that Jehovah is the Creator teaches us to be humble. Since he is the Potter and we are the clay, we should not question his actions, for everything he does is good and right. Just as Jehovah helped Job recognize his place by reminding him of his power as Creator, we too learn to trust that everything he does is right, even if we don't always understand it immediately.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Humility teaches us to be willing to learn from others, and above all, from Jehovah. And although some people may think that humility is a sign of weakness, the reality is that it is a virtue that helps us recognize our mistakes and limitations.
Job began to question Jehovah's way of acting. This teaches us that we should be humble and not try to tell Jehovah how to do things.
We learn that, because Jehovah is good and just, he always helps us not to be overconfident in ourselves and to be humble and keep Jehovah in mind in every decision we make in our lives.
When we look at the vast universe, with its thousands of planets and galaxies; when we contemplate the Earth, how it is formed, and the many wonders Jehovah designed and accomplished, we undoubtedly realize how small we are, like a speck of dust on a dim scale that is quickly disappearing.
The fact that Jehovah takes notice of us, helps us stand out from the great crowd on earth, and gives us the opportunity to become part of his people is a beautiful thing. Therefore, we should be grateful that Jehovah has taken notice of us.
Jehovah also demonstrates his humility, because he didn't have to explain himself to Job, since he is the Creator and had no obligation to do so. However, he kindly asked him questions so that he would meditate and understand. Therefore, it is important to note that Jehovah sets an example of perfect humility for us.
6. Why is it good for us to meditate on the greatness of the Creator? (See also the images.)
It's good for us to meditate on the greatness of the Creator because it helps us maintain a humble attitude. When we remember how superior Jehovah's wisdom and way of thinking are, we avoid relying too heavily on our own opinions. Instead of acting on our own judgment, we look to the Bible for guidance and recognize that His way of seeing things is always better than ours.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We can become complacent and think our opinion is the only valid one. As Isaiah 55:9 says, Jehovah's thoughts are above our own. Therefore, we must always maintain a humble attitude and meditate on his greatness, which will help us seek his guidance when making any decision.
It's important to meditate on Isaiah 55:8, where Jehovah says: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not my ways.” In verse 9, he emphasizes that his are superior. So it doesn't matter how well we reason or how well we express our ideas; what really matters is Jehovah's opinion on a matter.
Job 37:24 says that Jehovah shows no favor to anyone who thinks he is wise. Someone who thinks he knows everything he needs to make a decision doesn't allow anyone to help or advise him. How sad it would be to miss the opportunity to see the wonders Jehovah can do in our lives when we trust in his guidance and blessing, simply because we believe our wisdom is superior to his.
We can think about what often happens when we rely more on our own judgment than on biblical principles. Typically, when we do this in any area, we find that it always ends with an added problem or even worsens the situation. That's why it's important to see things as Jehovah sees them and, above all, to meditate on how we would do things and how Jehovah would do them.
Reflecting on the greatness of our Creator brings us back to the right place. Truly, we don't see the whole picture; Jehovah does, and we only see this moment. Remembering this every day, or whenever we have to make a decision, and always basing ourselves on Jehovah's thoughts will bring us back to that right place.
The image shows a meeting of elders in which one of them gives his opinion based on his own judgment, and the others don't think it's a good idea. This creates a conflict of opinions. But then, that same brother reasons and meditates on creation, seeing how Jehovah is so wise and powerful, and he once again accepts that Jehovah's ideas and ways of acting are always superior to anything we can devise.
In the image, we see several details that demonstrate that the elder's opinion is not the most accurate. First, we see the expressions of the other elders, who are clearly puzzled. We can see that he has his Bible open, but he isn't using it to present a solid argument based on Scripture, and that his opinion is something he has thought up on his own.
The other image reminds us that we are so small that we are no match for what Jehovah has created. This gives us a balanced perspective on how to act, humbly recognizing the greatness of our Creator.
The image tells us that the old man has focused too much on a personal idea in front of everyone, and has even become stubborn. Surely, if he were humble, he would apologize and acknowledge that his companions were right, because they were basing themselves on biblical principles, unlike him.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. An elder makes a suggestion at a meeting of elders, but the others disagree. 2. Then, the elder who made the suggestion meditates while looking at the starry sky.
What will help us remember that Jehovah's way of seeing things is far superior to ours? (See paragraph 6.)
7. What helped Rahela accept a recent change in the organization?
Rahela found it helpful to meditate on Jehovah as the Creator. Remembering that he is wise and has the power to lead his organization correctly, she was able to trust that the changes made were guided by him. This enabled her to humbly accept new instruction, even when it was difficult at first.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
It helped her to remember that Jehovah is not only the Creator, but also has the ability to direct his organization, and whatever Jehovah commands, we must obey.
Instead of criticizing the organization for changes we don't understand, this sister took the time to think about why Jehovah says this. Romans 11:36 says that all things come from him and are through him. Therefore, we should meditate on these things and pray to Jehovah to help us understand.
WHY GOD ALLOWS SUFFERING
8. How has learning why God allows suffering helped us?
Learning why God allows suffering has benefited us because it brings us comfort and draws us closer to Jehovah. Instead of blaming him for what happens in the world, we understand that he does not cause suffering, but rather that it is a result of sin and imperfection.
We are also encouraged to know that Jehovah has allowed time to pass out of love, so that more people may come to know him before finally ending the suffering. This gives us peace and helps us trust more deeply in his love and justice.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
This prevents us from experiencing what happens to most people who don't know Jehovah or his message: they think God is the cause of their suffering and become angry with him, or they become atheists. However, in our case, knowing why we suffer—and understanding that it's not God who's to blame, but rather a consequence of sin—helps us and gives us hope.
Jehovah has placed within our reach the answer to one of the most frequently asked questions around the world. This brings us closer to Jehovah and helps us understand him better. It gives us comfort, not only because it answers this question, but also because it is related to the hope we have through Jehovah.
9. In what situations is it good to review the reasons why Jehovah allows suffering?
It's especially good to review Jehovah's reasons for allowing suffering when we face problems, injustice, or the death of a loved one. At such times, we might wonder why Jehovah hasn't acted yet, and remembering these reasons helps us maintain patience and confidence that he intends to end suffering forever.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
In situations where we feel like the prophet Habakkuk, when he said to Jehovah, “How long must I cry for help?” or “How long will you tolerate oppression?” we should remember that when we feel sad and distressed—whether from seeing injustice or from seeing a loved one suffer or die—those are the times when we just want Jehovah to act. That’s when we should unburden ourselves to him and ask him to help us be patient, understand his point of view, and why he allows these things to happen.
An article in The Watchtower says that all suffering will soon end. It is meant to help others understand why Jehovah allows suffering. In times of such pain, we may be so clouded that we need to read these articles and review Jehovah's qualities to comfort us.
A Watchtower article says that many people feel that, although God exists and is omnipotent and loving, evil and suffering cannot be explained. This is only half true, because it is true that God exists, is omnipotent, and loving, but evil and suffering can be explained: they are a consequence of sin. Reflecting on this will help us, above all, to have patience and trust in Jehovah.
Before knowing the truth, when we went through difficult circumstances, especially the loss of family members or loved ones, we wondered why this happened to us. As we study the Bible, what we learn and must remember is that Jehovah is not to blame. Sin is the cause, the consequence, of the things that happen to us.
We must remember that Jehovah is a loving and good God, and that He is not responsible for what happens to us. Therefore, in Psalm 34:19 we read: “These are the troubles we will have, the troubles of the righteous, but Jehovah will deliver us from them all,” which gives us hope.
10. How has Anne managed to cope with the loss of her mother?
Anne has managed to cope with the loss of her mother by remembering that suffering does not come from Jehovah. Meditating on God's desire to end everything that causes us pain and promises to resurrect our loved ones has given her peace and comfort, even in the midst of her sadness.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
She says she constantly reminds herself that suffering does not come from Jehovah, that she knows Jehovah will put an end to all the things that cause us suffering, and that when she meditates on these truths, she feels a peace so great that it surprises even her.
11. Why does knowing why Jehovah allows suffering motivate us to continue preaching?
Knowing why Jehovah allows suffering motivates us to continue preaching because we understand that his patience has a purpose: to give people the opportunity to repent and attain salvation. Understanding this, we feel a desire to imitate Jehovah's love and collaborate with him by helping others come to know him before the end comes. We have the great honor of helping as many people as possible come to know him and live in the new world.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Thinking about this gives us perspective. Jehovah's reason for being patient is that the life of every human being is so precious to him that his desire is for everyone to have the opportunity to be saved. But, of course, the tools he uses to give them this opportunity are exclusively us; he won't do it directly. That's why he needs our collaboration, so we must strive to accomplish this task as best we can.
Continuing to preach, even in such difficult conditions as the world we live in, with so much pain and suffering, also helps us, just as the apostle Paul told the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 3:9. It's a tremendous privilege for us: Jehovah gives us the opportunity to collaborate in the most important work, one of the most significant ever done in human history.
As 1 Corinthians 3:9 says, we are God's field, which he is cultivating. It's a wonderful privilege, and being able to continue preaching these days makes us appreciate it even more.
2 Peter 3:11 says that since these things will be dissolved—that is, the end of this system will come very soon—the apostle Peter encourages us to reflect on the kind of people we should be and to perform acts of devotion to God, among which is preaching.
Preaching also helps us, because when we talk to others, we are reminded that the solution to all problems comes from Jehovah and will arrive very soon.
WE ARE LIVING IN “THE LAST DAYS”
12. When we see how the prophecy about “the last days” is being fulfilled, what are we convinced of?
Seeing how the prophecy about the "last days" is being fulfilled, we are convinced that God's Word is completely trustworthy. The way people's attitudes are worsening, just as the Bible foretold, confirms that what Jehovah announced is coming to pass.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
When we look at people today, we realize what 2 Timothy 3:1-5 says: unloving, disobedience, and violence are being fulfilled to the letter. What's most striking is that this attitude is only getting worse, as 2 Timothy 3:13-15 points out. This convinces us that God's Word is completely trustworthy.
13. What is good for us to ask ourselves? (Luke 12:15-21)
It's good to ask ourselves if our goals demonstrate that we have the right priorities. We should also reflect on how we are using our time, energy, and resources: Are we spending them primarily on accumulating material things or on becoming rich in God's eyes? Also, if we have children, it's a good idea to consider what kind of goals we are encouraging them to set.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
It's good to ask ourselves if my goals demonstrate that I have clear priorities.
Parents may wonder whether they encourage their children to set goals and what kind of goals they are. Each of us may also wonder what we primarily use our energy, time, and financial resources for.
Luke 12:15-21 tells the story of a rich man who was making a great profit from his land. He decided to build bigger barns to store even more, but God considered him foolish because he was storing up treasures for himself and was not rich in God's eyes.
Since this system of things has little time left, we must reflect on our perspectives and goals: Are they spiritually or earthly-centered? Do we accumulate benefits from material things or from spiritual things? We must store up treasures in heaven, which will give us eternal life.
Luke 12:15 tells us to keep our eyes open and avoid all forms of covetousness. When we think of covetousness, perhaps the first thing that comes to mind is accumulating money, property, etc. But by saying “all forms of covetousness,” we are invited to reflect that there may also be other covetous priorities that don’t necessarily have to do with money.
Studying the Bible allows us to put everything else in the background, draw closer to God, and understand that the path ahead is not about accumulating riches, but about growing spiritually and, perhaps, helping others understand that there is a future of hope that Jehovah promises us.
We must maintain a sense of urgency and focus on what is truly important, because if Jehovah still allows us to continue preaching and being active in his work, it is because he truly considers it to be something very important.
14. As Miki's experience shows, why is it good for us to meditate on the evidence that we are living in the last days?
As Miki's experience shows, meditating on the trials of the last days helps us make wise decisions and focus on what truly matters. By remembering that this system is time-sensitive, she was able to adjust her goals and choose a path that would allow her to achieve more important spiritual objectives. This allowed her to enjoy greater blessings than she would have obtained by pursuing a personal project.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
She had finished her required coursework and would have liked to study zoology, but she also had other goals, such as pioneering or going to preach elsewhere. She says she sought advice, meditated, and realized she could take a shorter course that would allow her to fulfill her spiritual goals.
It's good for us to meditate on the trials we are experiencing in the last days, because it helps us realize that we are getting closer to the end and makes us reflect on how we want to spend the time we have left in this world, putting Jehovah first.
Imagine we're on a cruise ship and the alarm sounds warning us that the ship is sinking. Now's not the time to be distracted by what's happening on the ship, but rather to focus on saving ourselves and others. The same is true of this world, full of distractions that could keep us from focusing on what's truly important: saving people's lives. Therefore, we must focus on what Jehovah has commanded us.
If we've been in the truth for a long time, we can ask ourselves: What future lies ahead? Perhaps we're approaching retirement age and haven't considered it. We might think about going to a place of need, being a regular pioneer, expanding our ministry, or relaxing, thinking that we've already worked hard and now it's time to enjoy life.
It's good that we do as this sister does: meditate on the trials that indicate we are in the last days and, thus, prioritize Jehovah above all other goals. In this way, we can be happy and attain eternal life.
15. What does the example of James teach us? (See also the images.)
The example of James teaches us that we should not be discouraged if someone rejects the good news, because people can change over time. Although James was a direct witness to Jesus' life and work, he did not place his faith in him until after his resurrection, yet he became a very active Christian.
Therefore, we must not give up on our family members or those who have not yet shown interest in the message, but rather continue preaching with patience and urgency, trusting that what we tell them today might motivate them to act in the future.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Although James saw Jesus become the Messiah and teach like no one else before him, it took him time to put his faith in him. And, of course, we may initially become discouraged when we see some family members not accepting the message. However, if instead of giving up on them, we see them like James, we won't lose our enthusiasm to continue preaching.
Regarding our family members who do not serve Jehovah, or even some who have strayed from him, it is crucial not to give up on them. The new understanding mentioned in the note cited in this article indicates that, until the very last moment, something can change in their hearts.
We should not give up on anyone, nor are we judges of anyone; Jehovah knows what is in people's hearts. Some may have a hard time reacting, but this gives us hope that we will not give up on our family members.
Lesson 8 of the booklet A Work of Love shows how Jesus, after resurrection, presented himself to his half-brother James. This is particularly striking because James had grown up with him, and it took 33 years before he put his faith in his brother.
The brochure tells us to talk to Jehovah about our family members, ask him to help us be tactful and positive, and also pray to him to know when the right time is, because sometimes we have ideas in our minds, but it's not the right time.
In the booklet, there's a point that points out that what we say to them today can motivate them to act in the future. So let's not fail to speak to our family members with affection, because what we say to them now may be helpful for their salvation during the Great Tribulation.
In the image, the sister on the left remembers a loved one, a family member, and calls out to them, wherever they may be. The idea is to remind our loved ones or family members from time to time that we are looking out for them, that we enjoy talking to them, and, above all, to take advantage of these opportunities to tell them that God's message is the best there is and that it offers good hope for the future.
It's striking that what motivated her was personal study, and she mentions that she has reviewed the evidence that we are in the last days. So study is very important.
In the image, it's clear that the sister has followed the advice in the booklet A Work of Love, especially the advice not to pressure. Her relative appears relaxed. Perhaps she's sharing something she's read, aware that she needs to consider her circumstances. She does so calmly, with her thoughts on her.
There's a reference to a Watchtower article at the end that's very interesting. Many of us may wonder what Jehovah will do with those who don't have the opportunity to hear the good news before the great tribulation arrives, or who only see the destruction of Babylon and then remember that Jehovah's Witnesses were preaching. What we do know for sure is that, in either case, Jehovah will judge each person in the best way, because He is wise, just, and merciful.
Returning to the image, the sister has probably witnessed to her sister many times, but now, given the circumstances, she seizes the opportunity. Perhaps she seizes her sister as a little girl, and who, these days, who has a young son doesn't wonder what will become of him in the future? Perhaps this is a good opportunity to witness to her about that future.
ILLUSTRATION
A sister doing her personal study calls her non-Witness sister who is shopping with her little daughter.
Why should we not give up on our non-Witness family members? (See paragraph 15.)
LET US CONTINUE TO BE THANKFUL FOR JEHOVAH'S REMINDERS
16. How have you benefited from Jehovah’s reminders? (See also the box “Use It to Help Others.”)
I have benefited greatly from Jehovah's reminders, even from those talks and publications that are primarily directed toward those who do not yet know the truth. As I review them, my love for Jehovah has strengthened and my faith in his Word has increased. Furthermore, these reminders have helped me explain the Bible's basic teachings more clearly when I speak with others, making me more skilled in teaching.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
It happens to all of us that attending meetings, reading the publications, and everything posted on the website helps us because it makes us love Jehovah more, strengthens our faith, and gives us confidence that he knows us, knows what we are going through, and brings us closer to him.
What Psalm 19:7 says happens to us: through all this, Jehovah helps us renew our strength and remain faithful. He also makes the inexperienced wise when we learn from all the things we see. Perhaps now, as our circumstances change, we read something that, even if it's for people who don't yet know the truth, helps us acquire better tools for ourselves and for preaching, and that strengthens us considerably.
In point two of the box, we try to see if any examples or comparisons are being used that could be helpful in teaching this truth. For example, we've heard that there are more than 50 armed conflicts in the world, of which we only know about two or three from the news. This can be a good introduction to the ministry to show people the current situation and how it fulfills the prophecies the Bible has given us.
If we find an interesting topic, we can think, "When would be a good time to show this to a visitor, family member, or student?" and reflect on how we can approach it.
The great thing about the app is that we can now save all the examples or articles we read, organizing them under a tag or category. Perhaps those of us who have relatives who aren't witnesses, or coworkers or classmates, can save these new ideas. That way, if the opportunity arises, without seeming tiresome, we can share an example or article we read previously, bringing it up at the right moment if a topic of interest arises.
17. In what situations can the basic teachings of the Bible help you?
The Bible's basic teachings can help me in many situations. For example, when I struggle with organizational change, they remind me that Jehovah, the Creator, directs everything and that I must remain humble.
When I face trials or see someone close to me suffer, meditating on why Jehovah allows suffering gives me patience and comfort. And when I must decide how to use my time and resources, remembering that we live in the last days helps me keep my priorities straight. Thanks to these reminders, I can make better decisions and remain loyal to Jehovah.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
One situation might be when we struggle to accept new instructions, a new understanding, or a change in the organization. In such moments, we must be humble and remember that Jehovah is our Creator, who directs the organization, and who is the wisest and most powerful. We have no right to question anything he does, because he knows best what we need.
We must remember that, even though we have lived in the truth for many years, we don't know everything. We are always learning new things: in conventions, in meetings, and in the preaching work. There are always opportunities to learn and apply what we have learned in the ministry. This makes us realize that we still don't know everything; Jehovah still has many things to do, and if we are attentive, we will learn more now and in the future.
It's inevitable that we will experience problems in this system, but we must not lose focus. Let's be patient, reflect on why Jehovah allows suffering in this system, use our time and resources, and always remember that we are at the end of this system, so time is short.
WHAT PRACTICAL LESSONS CAN BE LEARNED FROM THESE BASIC TEACHINGS?
Jehovah is the Creator.
It gives us a purpose in life, since knowing that Jehovah created us helps us understand that our existence has a purpose.
It teaches us to be humble, remembering that Jehovah is the Potter and we are the clay. Therefore, we should not question his actions, for everything he does is just and good, even if we sometimes don't immediately understand it.
It helps us trust in His guidance, especially when organizational changes occur or decisions are made that we may not understand at first.
He protects us from pride and from depending on our own opinions, since reflecting on his power as Creator keeps us humble and willing to accept correction.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
He teaches us to be humble and to trust that his decisions are always wise and just, and that motivates us to obey him, even if we don't always understand everything right away.
The reasons why God allows suffering.
We understand that pain and injustice are a consequence of sin and imperfection, not of God. This helps us maintain a good relationship with Him even in difficult times.
It encourages us to be patient, trusting that Jehovah has a purpose and a time to put an end to suffering once and for all.
It gives us comfort and hope, especially when we face loss or personal pain, because we remember that Jehovah will eliminate suffering and resurrect our loved ones.
It motivates us to continue preaching because we understand that Jehovah's love allows more people the opportunity to repent. Thus, we imitate his love by helping others come to know the truth.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Knowing that Jehovah doesn't cause suffering, but rather that it is due to sin and imperfection, has kept us from thinking like some people, who, not knowing the answer, become angry with God or become atheists. Understanding why God allows suffering and his patience helps us endure it and continue preaching.
Thanks to Jehovah's patience, thousands of people today have come to know him and have discovered what he will do to completely end suffering.
We are living in “the last days.”
Rely more on God's Word, for seeing the fulfillment of the prophecy of 2 Timothy 3 convinces us that the Bible is completely trustworthy.
Maintain a sense of urgency, evaluating our priorities so we don't focus solely on material goals, but rather on accumulating "treasures in heaven."
Make wise decisions about the use of time, choosing spiritual goals over personal desires that can be postponed until the new world.
Let us not give up on preaching, even when others reject the message. We remember that people can change over time and that what we sow today can bear fruit later.
Encourage us to remain steadfast, knowing that we are very close to the end and that our service is more valuable than ever.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Knowing that we are living in the last days helps us maintain a sense of urgency and focus on what is truly important.
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