Watchtower Study Guide, “Article 21,” Week of July 20-26, 2026, How to Make Good Decisions About Further Education. Answers.

Watchtower Study Guide, “Article 21”, July 20-26, 2026, How to Make Good Decisions About Further Studies. Answers.

“The prudent man considers all his steps” (PROV. 14:15).

1, 2. a) What decisions do young people have to make?

Many young people reach a stage where they must decide how they will earn a living without losing sight of their main objective: serving Jehovah. As 2 Thessalonians 3:10 reminds us, we all have the responsibility to work to provide for our needs.

Therefore, in addition to considering what profession they would like to pursue, they should also analyze whether they will continue studying after compulsory education. This is not a decision to be made under pressure or by comparing themselves to others, but rather through prayer and reflection.

This makes us reflect on the importance of planning our future while always keeping our spiritual goals in mind. When Jehovah takes first place in our lives, it is easier to choose a path that allows us to serve him with joy and peace.

1, 2. b) What does the expression additional studies mean? (See the “Main Idea”).

In this article, the expression "additional studies" refers to any training that a person decides to undertake after completing compulsory education in order to acquire knowledge or skills that will help them find a job.

It is not limited to university studies, but can also include technical courses, vocational training, or specialized studies. The purpose of this article is not to tell each Christian which option to choose, but to present biblical principles that will help them make a wise decision.

This reminds us that Jehovah values ​​how we reason through our decisions more than the type of studies we choose. When we seek his guidance, we can act peacefully and maintain a good conscience.

“SHOULD I CONTINUE STUDYING?”

3. Why might some Christians consider pursuing further education?

In some places, further education can lead to employment with better conditions, more favorable hours, or a salary sufficient to support oneself. It might even allow for more time to be dedicated to the ministry or to serving Jehovah.

However, they also involve sacrifices and can present spiritual challenges that should be considered calmly. The Bible encourages us to be balanced and to work to meet our needs without losing sight of what is most important.

This leads us to realize that not all circumstances are the same and that each Christian should honestly assess their situation. When we put Jehovah first, we look for options that benefit both our material life and our spirituality.

4. Who has the responsibility to decide whether a Christian will pursue further studies? (See also the note.)

The Bible explains in Galatians 6:5 that “each one will carry his own load.” This means that an adult Christian must personally make the decision about his or her studies and accept the consequences of it.

However, when children are still young, it is the parents who have the responsibility to guide them, as indicated in Ephesians 6:1 and Proverbs 22:6. They strive to teach them to reason based on biblical principles so that, when they are adults, they will know how to make good decisions for themselves.

This leads us to believe that an important decision should not be based solely on personal preferences, but on a well-trained conscience. In this way, we demonstrate maturity and respect for the guidance that Jehovah provides through his Word.

5. When should a Christian decide whether to pursue further studies, and why? (See also the image.)

Often, this decision must be made while the young person is still in compulsory education. Therefore, it is very helpful to talk with the parents well in advance, research the different options, and plan calmly, as Proverbs 21:5 advises.

However, the article also shows that it's not always necessary to decide immediately. Some young people prefer to start working, become pioneers, and later consider whether they need further training.

This makes us realize that we don't all progress at the same pace or experience the same circumstances. The important thing is to avoid impulsive decisions and allow planning, prayer, and wise counsel to help us choose the best path to continue serving Jehovah.

ILLUSTRATION

A teenage girl and her parents are discussing different options for further education. They are looking at various brochures from educational institutions, a video from JW Broadcasting, and the Bible.

Christian parents help their daughter make good decisions about further studies. (See paragraph 5.)

6. What will help you make a good decision about further studies?

The first step, as James 1:5 encourages, is to always talk to Jehovah and ask him for wisdom. Then, it is helpful to consider two very important aspects.

The first is: Why do I want to continue studying? We must honestly examine our motivations, as Psalm 26:2 points out.

The second step is to carefully analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the option we are considering, following the principle of Proverbs 14:15, which says that the prudent person thinks well before acting.

This makes us reflect on the fact that a good decision requires time, research, and prayer. When we allow Bible principles to guide our reasoning, we feel the peace of mind that comes from knowing Jehovah is directing our steps.

“WHY DO I WANT TO CONTINUE STUDYING?”

7. What is the fundamental question to ask, and why?

Before deciding to pursue further studies, it is essential to ask ourselves honestly: Why do I want this type of education? Having a decent job and being able to support ourselves is a right goal, as 1 Timothy 5:8 reminds us.

However, the Bible also warns against making money, prestige, or financial security the center of our lives. Proverbs 23:4, 5; 1 Timothy 6:8-10; and 1 John 2:17 show that riches are fleeting and that materialism can distance us from Jehovah.

This makes us think that our decisions should reflect our true priorities. When our primary desire is to stay close to Jehovah, it becomes much easier to choose a path that brings us true peace and satisfaction.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

The first question we should ask ourselves is: Why do I want to continue studying? If the motivation is solely to gain more money or prestige, the Bible warns us that this can distance us from Jehovah.

On the other hand, if we seek to prepare ourselves to sustain ourselves while continuing to put the Kingdom first, we will be making a decision based on good motivation and will have Jehovah's blessing.

8, 9. a) How should Christians view education? (Matthew 6:33).

Christians should view education as a means, not an end. Jesus taught at Matthew 6:33 that seeking the Kingdom should be our first priority. Furthermore, as Matthew 22:37, 38 and Philippians 3:8 indicate, nothing can take Jehovah’s rightful place in our lives.

Therefore, any training we choose to receive should help us sustain ourselves while we continue serving Jehovah wholeheartedly. This leads us to realize that true success depends not on the level of education we attain, but on keeping our priorities straight.

When we use education as a tool to support our spiritual goals, we enjoy a much more balanced and meaningful life.

8, 9. b) What do you learn from what Josefina, Morine and Iris say?

The three examples teach a valuable lesson. The decisions they made regarding their studies yielded positive results because they were always subordinate to their spiritual goals.

Josefina chose an education that would allow her to serve Jehovah more fully. Morine learned a trade with the goal of moving to a place where the need was greater. Iris, for her part, even after studying for a longer period, understood that true happiness does not depend on a degree, but on keeping Jehovah at the center of one's life.

This makes us think that each circumstance may be different, but the principle is always the same: when our decisions strengthen our friendship with Jehovah, we experience a satisfaction that no academic achievement can match.

“WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS?”

10. How does Deuteronomy 32:29 help you make a decision about further study?

Deuteronomy 32:29 encourages us to consider the consequences of our decisions before acting. Applied to further studies, this means researching different alternatives, comparing options, and even evaluating whether further study is truly necessary or if other options exist.

The article points out that today there are options such as online courses, technical training, or even starting to work directly, as Johanna did, who found that Jehovah never stopped taking care of her.

Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 10:23 reminds us that not everything that is permitted is necessarily beneficial. This leads us to believe that the best decision will be the one that, in addition to being practical, allows us to maintain a strong and balanced spiritual life.

11. Why should you think about how many hours a week you will have to dedicate to your studies? (See also the images).

Before deciding to study, it is wise to realistically calculate how much time classes, practicals, travel, and assignments will require. Philippians 1:10 encourages us to make sure of the more important things, and that includes protecting the time we dedicate to Jehovah.

Jeroz's example shows that an overly demanding schedule can negatively impact preaching, meeting attendance, and personal study. In contrast, Rabeca chose a course compatible with pioneering and was very pleased with her decision.

This leads us to believe that it's not enough to simply ask ourselves if we can complete our studies, but also if we can maintain a healthy spiritual routine while we're doing them. That balance will always bring the best results.

ILLUSTRATION

Image series: A brother tries to imagine if he can balance further studies with his other responsibilities. 1. He passes the microphone during meetings. 2. He preaches from house to house. 3. He works in a coffee shop. 4. He attends classes.

If you are thinking of continuing your studies, make sure you will have time to attend to all your important responsibilities. (See paragraph 11.)

12. What questions will help you make the best use of your time? (Ecclesiastes 12:1).

It is also important to ask ourselves how long the studies will last and whether that time will be well used. Ephesians 5:15-17 encourages us to use our time wisely, while Ecclesiastes 12:1 reminds us of the value of serving Jehovah during our youth.

Therefore, it is worth considering whether there are shorter alternatives that allow one to learn a useful trade without unnecessarily delaying spiritual goals.

Mario's example shows that a technical course allowed him to prepare for work and, at the same time, continue pioneering.

This leads us to believe that, on many occasions, a simpler option may be sufficient to meet our needs while still allowing us to make the most of the best years of our lives in Jehovah's service.

13. What are some dangers of moving to another place to study?

If studies require moving far from family or the congregation, it is necessary to carefully consider the spiritual risks. Proverbs 22:3 says that the prudent see danger and act with foresight, while 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns that bad company can corrupt good habits.

Matias found that living in a boarding school constantly exposed him to temptations, while another sister avoided many problems by staying with her parents. The article also points out that alternatives exist today, such as online learning.

This leads us to believe that protecting our friendship with Jehovah should always take precedence over the comfort or prestige of a particular educational institution.

14. How can Luke 14:28 help you make a good decision?

Jesus taught in Luke 14:28 that a wise person calculates the cost before starting any construction. This same principle helps us analyze how much the studies will cost and whether we can truly afford that expense.

We must consider not only tuition fees, but also materials, travel, accommodation, and even potential loans. Proverbs 22:7 also reminds us that debt can become a burden for many years.

Adilson's example shows that a poorly calculated decision can seriously affect the entire family. This leads us to believe that acting prudently also means safeguarding our financial stability so that we can continue serving Jehovah peacefully and without unnecessary burdens.

ADDITIONAL COMMENT

Luke 14:28 teaches us to calculate the cost before making a decision. Therefore, it's wise to consider whether we can afford the studies without creating financial hardship for ourselves or our families.

Thinking ahead and considering more affordable options shows prudence and helps us maintain peace while continuing to put Jehovah first.

15. Why is it good to consider the job market before deciding what to study?

Before choosing a course of study, it's wise to investigate whether it truly prepares you for a job in demand. Colossians 2:8 encourages us not to be swayed by ideas that seem appealing but don't offer real practical benefits.

As the examples in the article show, some training programs are too theoretical and do not teach the skills that companies need, while others prepare students for trades with few job opportunities.

This leads us to believe that making a good decision requires objective research and not being guided solely by personal preferences. When we analyze the realities of the job market, our chances of finding employment that allows us to support ourselves and continue serving Jehovah increase.

16. Why is it important to think about the type of job you can find with what you want to study?

Finding a job is not enough. We should also consider what that job will be like and whether it will benefit our spiritual life. Ecclesiastes 3:12, 13 reminds us that it is a blessing to enjoy the fruits of our labor, while Ecclesiastes 12:13 points out what should remain our priority: fearing Jehovah and obeying him.

Therefore, it is good to ask yourself if the schedule will be compatible with meetings and preaching, if the work environment will be healthy, and if the job will allow you to meet your needs without consuming your entire life.

Tabitha's example shows that choosing a flexible job enabled her to support herself and continue pioneering. This leads us to believe that the best job is one that also protects our friendship with Jehovah.

17. a) Where can you find the information you need to make a good decision?

To make a good decision, it's important to gather information from various reliable sources. The article advises visiting the educational institution or its website to learn about the details of the programs and find out how many job opportunities exist in that field.

It also recommends speaking with people who have already completed that training or work in that profession, following the principle of Proverbs 13:10, which highlights the value of good counsel. This leads us to believe that an important decision should never be based on assumptions or simply on advertising.

The better we understand the reality, the easier it will be to wisely choose an option that benefits both our future employment and our service to Jehovah.

17. b) What Bible principles will help you make a decision? (See the box “Helpful Bible Principles”).

The biblical principles in the box provide an excellent guide for analyzing any study choice. They help us examine our motivations, applying Matthew 6:33 and avoiding materialism, as indicated in 1 Timothy 6:8-10.

They also encourage us to consider the time the studies will require, their duration, where we will live, the cost, and whether the training will truly facilitate a job compatible with our spiritual goals.

This leads us to believe that Jehovah does not decide for us, but he does provide us with sound principles for balanced reasoning. Applying these principles demonstrates confidence in his wisdom and his love for us.

18. What should we remember?

The main idea of ​​the article is that further studies can have advantages and disadvantages, so each Christian should carefully analyze his or her circumstances, pray to Jehovah, and make a decision based on Bible principles.

Psalm 16:9, 11 reminds us that true happiness comes from our friendship with Jehovah, while Hebrews 13:5 assures us that he will never abandon those who faithfully serve him.

This leads us to believe that economic stability can be helpful, but it will never replace the peace and security we feel when we trust fully in Jehovah.

WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?

What is the relationship between Galatians 6:5 and decisions about further studies?

Galatians 6:5 reminds us that each adult Christian must take responsibility for their own decisions. Therefore, although we may listen to advice from our parents, mature brothers and sisters, or the congregation, in the end, each one will answer to Jehovah for the decision they make. The important thing is to act after praying, thoroughly investigating, and applying Bible principles.

How should Christians view additional studies?

Further studies should be seen as a tool to learn a trade or prepare to support oneself, never as the main goal in life.

Jesus taught in Matthew 6:33 that the Kingdom should always come first. When we maintain that priority, any decision about education will serve our spiritual goals, not the other way around.

What factors should a Christian consider when deciding whether to continue studying?

It is advisable to prayerfully analyze our motivations, the time the studies will require, their duration, the place where we will have to live, the economic cost, the real job opportunities and whether that job will allow us to continue putting Jehovah first.

When we evaluate all those factors with the help of biblical principles, we are much more likely to make a wise and balanced decision.