Bible Speaks

"There are seven kings: five have fallen, one is, the other has not yet arrived."— (Rev. 17:10) ??? The Wild Beasts of Daniel and of Revelation. That the beasts described in these books represent political kingdoms or governments, exercising rulership and authority, is clearly stated. (Da 7:6, 12, 23; 8:20-22; Re 16:10; 17:3, 9-12) A consideration of the Biblical passages reveals that, while these political ‘wild beasts’ vary in symbolic form, yet all have certain characteristics in common. All are shown as standing in opposition to God’s rule by the Messianic Kingdom over mankind. They are also depicted as in opposition to God’s “holy ones,” his covenant people, first the Jewish nation, then the Christian congregation. Those specifically named (Medo-Persia and Greece) were major world powers, and the great size attributed to the others or the description of their actions indicates that these too were not minor kingdoms. (It may be noted that subordinate kingdoms are symbolized by horns in some cases.) All the beasts are represented as very aggressive, seeking the dominant position over the nations or peoples within the reach of their power.—Compare Da 7:17, 18, 21; 8:9-11, 23, 24; Re 13:4-7, 15; 17:12-14. ??? Many commentators endeavor to limit the fulfillment of the visions of the beasts in the book of Daniel so that it does not extend beyond the time when Jesus Christ was on the earth, at which time the Roman Empire was the dominant power. The prophecies themselves, however, make plain that they extend beyond that time. The final forms of the beasts are shown as reaching down to the ‘arrival of the definite time for God’s holy ones to take possession of the kingdom’ in “the appointed time of the end.” Then the Messiah destroys such beastly opposition for all time. (Da 7:21-27; 8:19-25; compare also Re 17:13, 14; 19:19, 20.) ??? It may be noted that Christ Jesus expressly foretold that opposition to the Messianic Kingdom would continue into the time of the end, so that his disciples then preaching that Kingdom would be “objects of hatred by all the nations.” (Mt 24:3, 9-14) This obviously does not allow for any nation, particularly world powers, to be excluded from possible identification with the final forms or expressions of the symbolic wild beasts. ??? The scarlet-colored wild beast. At Revelation 17 the apostle records his vision of a scarlet-colored beast with seven heads and ten horns, mounted by the symbolic woman “Babylon the Great.” This beast thus resembles, or is in the image of, the first beast of Revelation 13 but is distinct because of its scarlet color and the fact that no crowns are seen on its ten horns. Beholding the beast, John is told that five of the seven kings represented by the seven heads had already fallen, while one existed at that time, and the seventh was yet to come. The scarlet-colored beast itself is an eighth king but springs from or is a product of the previous seven. The “ten kings” represented by the ten horns exist and exercise authority in association with the scarlet beast for a short time. Warring against the Lamb, Jesus Christ, and those with him, they go down in defeat.—Re 17:3-5, 9-14. https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200000591?q=rev+17%3A10&p=par

“The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth”—How? ??? “YOU are probably familiar with Jesus’ heartwarming words that ‘themeek shall inherit the earth.’ But in view of all that people are doing to one another and to the earth, what do you think there will be left for the meek to inherit?”—Matthew 5:5; Psalm 37:11; King James Version. ??? God’s Eternal Purpose for the Earth Jehovah God created the earth for a specific purpose. “This is what Jehovah has said, the Creator of the heavens, He the true God, the Former of the earth and the Maker of it, He the One who firmly established it, who did not create it simply for nothing, who formed it even to be inhabited: ‘I am Jehovah, and there is no one else.’” (Isaiah 45:18) Thus, the earth was created specifically for human habitation. Furthermore, it is God’s purpose for the earth to be an eternal home for mankind. “He has founded the earth upon its established places; it will not be made to totter to time indefinite, or forever.”—Psalm 104:5; 119:90. ??? Who will be in line to enjoy that wonderful inheritance? Consider Jesus’ words: “Happy are the mild-tempered ones, since they willinherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5) What does it mean to be mild-tempered, or meek? Dictionaries generally define “meek,” or “mild,” as gentle, moderate, submissive, quiet, even timid. However, theoriginal Greek word used means much more. “There is gentleness” in that word, observes William Barclay’s New Testament Wordbook, “but behind the gentleness there is the strength of steel.” It denotes a mental disposition that enables a person to endure injury without resentment or thought of retaliation, all as a result of having a good relationship with God, and that relationship becomes a source of strength for him.—Isaiah 12:2; Philippians 4:13. ??? One who is meek humbly accepts God’s standards in all aspects of his personal life; he does not insist on going by his own views or by other people’s opinions. He is also teachable, willing to be taught by Jehovah. The psalmist David wrote: “[Jehovah] will cause the meek ones to walk in his judicial decision, and he will teach the meek ones his way.”—Psalm 25:9; Proverbs 3:5, 6. ??? Will you be among “the meek” who will inherit the earth? By getting to know Jehovah and his will through a diligent study of his Word and by putting what you learn into practice, you too can look forward to inheriting an earthly paradise and living forever in it.—John 17:3. ??? https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2004721?q=the+meek+will+inherit+the+earth&p=par

“O Daniel, make secret the words . . . until the time of the end. Many will rove about, and the true knowledge will become abundant.”—DAN. 12:4. ⚡️???⚡️ Everlasting Life on Earth—A Hope Rediscovered ⚡️???⚡️ MILLIONS of people today clearly understand the Scriptural basis for the hope of living forever in an earthly paradise. (Rev. 7:9, 17) At the beginning of human history, God revealed that man was made, not to live a few years and then die, but to live forever.—Gen. 1:26-28. ⚡️???⚡️ A Hope Obscured ⚡️???⚡️ Why is it not surprising that mankind’s hope of everlasting life on earth was obscured? Jesus foretold that false prophets would corrupt his teachings and that most people would be misled. (Matt. 24:11) The apostle Peter warned Christians: “There will also be false teachers among you.” (2 Pet. 2:1) The apostle Paul spoke of “a period of time when [people would] not put up with the healthful teaching, but, in accord with their own desires, they [would] accumulate teachers for themselves to have their ears tickled.” (2 Tim. 4:3, 4) Satan is involved in misleading people and has used apostate Christianity to obscure the heartwarming truth about God’s purpose for man and the earth.—Read 2 Corinthians 4:3, 4. ⚡️???⚡️ Truth Flashes Up in the Darkness “The True Knowledge Will Become Abundant” ⚡️???⚡️ As regards “the time of the end,” Daniel foretold a very positive development. (Read Daniel 12:3, 4, 9, 10.) “At that time the righteous ones will shine as brightly as the sun,” said Jesus. (Matt. 13:43) How did the true knowledge become abundant in the time of the end? Consider some historical developments in the decades prior to 1914, the year when the time of the end began. ⚡️???⚡️ In the late 1800’s, a number of sincere individuals were searching for an understanding of “the pattern of healthful words.” (2 Tim. 1:13) One such person was Charles Taze Russell. In 1870 he and a few other truth-seekers formed a class for Bible study. In 1872 they examined the subject of restitution. Later, Russell wrote: “Up to that time we had failed to see clearly the great distinction between the reward of the church now on trial and the reward of the faithful of the world.” The reward of the latter will be “restoration to the perfection of human nature once enjoyed in Eden by their progenitor and head, Adam.” Russell acknowledged that he had been helped in his study of the Bible by others. ⚡️???⚡️ Russell discerned from the Bible that the time had come to make the good news widely known. So in 1879, he started publishing Zion’s Watch Tower and Herald of Christ’s Presence, now called The Watchtower Announcing Jehovah’s Kingdom. Previously, the truth about mankind’s hope was understood by very few people, but now groups of Bible Students in many countries were receiving and studying The Watchtower. The belief that only a few will go to heaven, whereas millions will be given perfect human life on earth, set the Bible Students apart from most of Christendom. ⚡️???⚡️ How did true knowledge become plentiful? ⚡️???⚡️ The foretold “time of the end” began in 1914. Did true knowledge about the hope of mankind become plentiful? (Dan. 12:4) By 1913, Russell’s sermons were printed in 2,000 newspapers with a combined readership of 15,000,000. By the end of 1914, over 9,000,000 people on three continents had seen the “Photo-Drama of Creation”—a program including motion pictures and slides that explained Christ’s Millennial Reign. From 1918 until 1925, the talk “Millions Now Living Will Never Die,” which explained the hope of everlasting life on earth, was presented by Jehovah’s servants in over 30 languages worldwide. By 1934, Jehovah’s Witnesses realized that those hoping to live forever on earth should be baptized. This understanding filled them with renewed zeal for preaching the good news of the Kingdom. Today, the prospect of living forever on earth fills the hearts of millions with gratitude toward Jehovah. ⚡️???⚡️ https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2009603?q=dan+12%3A4&p=par

"Hate what is bad, and love what is good." — (Amos 5:15) ????? Those who live up to God’s standards and walk in the divine name are said to fear God’s name. That is not negative or bad. Jehovah assures such ones: “To you who are in fear of my name the sun of righteousness will certainly shine forth, with healing in its wings; and you will actually go forth and paw the ground like fattened calves.” (Malachi 4:2) In the fulfillment of this prophecy, “the sun of righteousness” is Jesus Christ. (Revelation 1:16) ????? He shines forth now with spiritual healing and, in time, will shine forth with physical healing for mankind. The joy of the healed ones is likened to that of fattened calves that “go forth and paw the ground,” excited and delighted to be free. Have you not already experienced a large measure of such liberation?—John 8:32. ????? In what ways do you benefit from adhering to Jehovah’s standards? ????? Another way that you can benefit from adhering to God’s standards is in improved relations with fellow humans. Habakkuk declared five woes—against those who coveted, those who went after dishonest gain, those who shed blood, those who schemed to commit sexual wrongs, and those who worshipped idols. (Habakkuk 2:6-19) The fact that Jehovah declared these woes shows clearly that he has set standards as to how we should live our life. But note this point: Four of the wrongs mentioned have to do with how we treat our fellow man. If we cultivate God’s view, we will not harm our neighbors. Thus, our relationship with most of them should improve. ????? HOW CAN THE FOLLOWING HELP YOU TO OBSERVE GOD’S STANDARDS? Hating bad—Amos 5:15. Having God’s Word in your treasure store—Jonah 2:4-9. Cultivating fear of Jehovah—Haggai 1:12-14. https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1102006149?q=amos+5%3A15&p=par

"Become imitators of God."—(Eph. 5:1) In the last days of his evil rule, Satan is bent on wiping out the standards of respectful conduct that Jehovah has established. But the Devil will fail to eradicate the good manners of true Christians. May each of us be determined to follow the examples of our gracious God and his Son. Then our speech and conduct will always be in contrast with the actions of those who choose to be ill-mannered. We will bring praise to the name of our well-mannered God, Jehovah, and will attract sincere people to his true worship. Guard Against Deception by Apostates Satan has long used apostates in his efforts to seduce God’s servants. (Matthew 13:36-39) Apostates may claim to worship Jehovah and to believe the Bible, but they reject the visible part of his organization. Some even return to the God-dishonoring doctrines of “Babylon the Great,” the world empire of false religion. (Revelation 17:5; 2 Peter 2:19-22) Under divine inspiration, the Bible writers used strong words to expose the motives and the methods of apostates. What is it that apostates want? Most are not content to leave the faith that they once perhaps viewed as true. Often, they want to take others with them. Rather than going out and making their own disciples, many apostates seek to “draw away the disciples [that is, Christ’s disciples] after themselves.” (Acts 20:29, 30) Regarding false teachers, the apostle Paul sounded this urgent warning: “Look out: perhaps there may be someone who will carry you off as his prey.” (Colossians 2:8) Does that not describe what many apostates try to do? Like a kidnapper who carries an unsuspecting victim away from his family, apostates prey upon trusting members of the congregation, seeking to carry them away from the flock. What methods do apostates use to achieve their aim? They often resort to distortions, half-truths, and outright falsehoods. Jesus knew that his followers would be victimized by those who would “tell all kinds of evil lies against” them. (Matthew 5:11, Today’s English Version) Such malicious opposers would tell what is not true with the intent to deceive others. The apostle Peter warned about apostateswho would use “counterfeit words,” spread “deceptive teachings,” and ‘twist the Scriptures’ to their own ends. (2 Peter 2:3, 13; 3:16) Sadly, apostates succeed in “subverting the faith of some.”—2 Timothy 2:18. https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2004124?q=apostates&p=par

"I came to be beside him as a master worker, and I came to be the one he was specially fond of day by day."— (Prov. 8:30)

"There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving."—Acts 20:35. “You are seeking great things for yourself. Stop seeking such things. For I am about to bring a calamity on all flesh, . . . and wherever you may go, I will grant you your life as a spoil.” (Jer. 45:3, 5)

REBEKAH - The Story of a Woman of Faith ?????? Daughter of Bethuel the son of Nahor, and therefore grandniece of Abraham. Her brother’s name was Laban.—Ge 22:20-23. ?????? In 1878 B.C.E., when Abraham sent his household manager, likely Eliezer, in search of a suitable wife for his son Isaac (now 40 years old), he came to “the city of Nahor” in the upper Mesopotamian valley. There at a well, this servant prayed that Jehovah’s choice would be the damsel who not only would give him a drink when asked but also would volunteer to water his ten camels. (Ge 24:1-14) ?????? While he was praying, Rebekah came to the well with a water jar. When he asked her for a sip of water, she graciously gave him a drink and then “quickly emptied her jar into the drinking trough and ran yet again and again to the well to draw water, and kept drawing for all his camels. All the while the man was gazing at her in wonder, keeping silent to know whether Jehovah had made his trip successful or not.” Rebekah proved to be kind, hospitable, modest in her manner, and industrious; besides this, “the young woman was very attractive in appearance.”—Ge 24:14-21. ?????? Abraham’s servant, recognizing that his prayer had been answered, bestowed upon Rebekah a gold nose ring and two beautiful gold bracelets (worth c. $1,350 in modern-day values). These she showed to her family—her mother and her brother Laban—who, in turn, extended the hospitality of their home to the visitor and the attendants with him. (Ge 24:22-32) ?????? But before he would eat, the man stated his business. Laban and his father Bethuel gave their consent for Rebekah to marry Isaac; gifts, consisting of precious articles of gold and silver and exquisite garments, were given to Rebekah and her family, and then they all ate together. (Ge 24:33-54) ?????? This transaction constituted an honorable marriage contract, not between Rebekah and Isaac, but between their parents, according to the custom of the time. Rebekah was in this way betrothed to Isaac and was from then on, in effect, his wife. ?????? With Rebekah’s consent, the caravan took off the next morning for the long journey to the Negeb near Beer-lahai-roi, where Isaac was living at the time. Before she left, Rebekah’s family blessed her, saying: “May you become thousands times ten thousand, and let your seed take possession of the gate of those who hate it.” Her nurse Deborah and other lady attendants accompanied Rebekah, none of whom, it appears, ever returned to their homeland.—Ge 24:55-62; 35:8. ?????? Upon reaching their destination, Rebekah put on a headcloth at the approach of her bridegroom Isaac, and after Abraham’s servant had recounted all the events of his mission, relating how Jehovah had directed the choice, Isaac brought Rebekah into his mother’s tent to become his wife. Isaac dearly loved Rebekah, and in her he “found comfort after the loss of his mother” Sarah, who had died three years earlier.—Ge 24:63-67. ?????? Like Sarah, Rebekah for a long time remained barren. After some 19 years, during which time Isaac persistently appealed to Jehovah, she conceived and then bore the twins Esau and Jacob. So distressing was her pregnancy, as the two struggled with each other in her womb, that Rebekah wondered, “Just why am I alive?” In response, Jehovah assured her that she would become the mother of two great nations and that “the older will serve the younger.” (Ge 25:20-26) This, Paul says, was to demonstrate that the choice of the ‘seed of promise’ depended entirely on God.—Ro 9:6-13. ?????? Also like Sarah, Rebekah disguised her identity on one occasion, passing herself off as her husband’s sister. This was when a famine in the land forced her family to take up residence for a time in Philistine territory ruled over by King Abimelech. Rebekah must have been well along in years, yet because of her great beauty Isaac, the designated heir of the Abrahamic covenant, was presumed to be in danger of being killed if it was known he was her husband.—Ge 26:1-11. ?????? When Isaac had grown old and was preparing to bless Esau his firstborn, Rebekah took immediate steps to secure the desired blessing for Jacob. (Ge 25:28-34; 27:1-5) Whether Rebekah knew of Jacob’s legal right to the birthright through purchase is not stated, but she was well aware of what Jehovah had told her, namely, that the older would serve the younger. So she took action to see that Jacob would secure his father’s blessing. The outcome was in harmony with Jehovah’s purpose.—Ge 27:6-29 ?????? Later, when Rebekah learned of Esau’s plans to kill Jacob, she influenced Isaac to send Jacob to her homeland in search of a wife for himself. It had grieved both her and Isaac very much that Esau had taken two wives from among the hated Canaanites.—Ge 26:34, 35; 27:41-46; 28:1-5; 29:10-12. ?????? She was buried in the family cave of Machpelah along with Abraham and Sarah, where later Isaac, Leah, and Jacob were interred.—Ge 49:29-31; 50:13. https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200003658

"All the things that were written aforetime were written for our instruction, that . . . we might have hope."—Rom. 15:4 ??????? Knowing the truth about God’s purposes and having a genuine hope for the future will certainly provide great comfort. ??????? Jesus set us a fine example by using the Scriptures to instruct and comfort others. During one of his postresurrection appearances, for instance, he ‘fully opened up the Scriptures’ to two of his disciples. As he spoke to them, their hearts were deeply touched. (Luke 24:32) ??????? In keeping with Jesus’ excellent example, the apostle Paul ‘reasoned from the Scriptures.’ In Beroea, his listeners “received the word with the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures daily.” (Acts 17:2, 10, 11) ??????? How appropriate it is that we read the Bible daily, benefiting from it and from Christian publications designed to bring us comfort and hope in these troublesome times!

International and district conventions have been a feature of the modern-day history of Jehovah’s Witnesses for as long as most of us can remember. "Congregate the people."—Deut. 31:12 Were you there in 1958? I was, I was Four. You? ??‍♀️

Confidently Press On With Complete Trust in God! ???? (Psalm 4:8) . . ."In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For you yourself alone, O Jehovah, make me dwell in security." David concludes this psalm with the words: “In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for you yourself alone, O Jehovah, make me dwell in security.” (Ps. 4:8) ???? When the Israelites kept Jehovah’s Law, they were at peace with him and felt secure. For instance, ‘Judah and Israel dwelt in security’ during Solomon’s reign. (1 Ki. 4:25) Those trusting in God enjoyed peace even when neighboring nations were hostile. Like David, we sleep peacefully because God makes us feel secure. ???? Let us confidently press on in Jehovah’s service. May we also pray in faith and thus experience “the peace of God that excels all thought.” (Phil. 4:6, 7) What joy that brings us! And we can surely face the future with confidence if we maintain complete trust in Jehovah.

Will the Earth Come to an End? - He is taking an Accounting of all the Earth right Now! ~ ??? (Romans 9:28) For Jehovah will make an accounting on the earth, concluding it and cutting it short.” (Isaiah 10:23) . . .because an exterminating and a strict decision the Sovereign Lord, Jehovah of armies, will be executing in the midst of the whole land." ??? Will the Earth Come to an End? “THE end of the world never goes out of style, at least as far as film is concerned.” So stated columnist John Scalzi. Why are audiences captivated by movies depicting the end of the world? “Because they speak to our fears,” reasoned Scalzi. Would you agree? Do we have legitimate reasons to be fearful about how and when the earth—and all life upon it—might come to an end? ??? Almost daily, we hear of natural disasters wreaking havoc around the globe. Terrifying footage of such destruction is replayed over and over on TV and on the Internet. When we are bombarded with images of real people and real places being destroyed, it is easy to view the end of the world as an actual threat and not just the stuff of movies. ??? Fueling such fears, scientists theorize about how the earth might end. Some even predict what might be called earth’s expiration date. In March 2008, the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society reported that a pair of astronomers forecast that in approximately 7.59 billion years, the sun will engulf and vaporize our planet. Will the earth really expire someday? ??? Does Our Planet Have an Expiration Date? The Bible assures us: “Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever.” (Ecclesiastes 1:4, New International Version) Jehovah God securely “founded the earth upon its established places” and designed it to last “to time indefinite, or forever.” (Psalm 104:5) ??? Do these inspired words of God sound too good to be true? Why should you believe that our earth will not expire, when some scientists claim otherwise? ??? Well, think for a moment about products on the shelf at a store. Some are labeled with an expiration date. Who set that date? Was it just an educated guess by the store manager? Of course not! The manufacturer determined the expiration date. We trust that date because the manufacturer knows his products better than anyone else. How much more so should we trust the Maker of our planet! His Word clearly states that he “solidly fixed the earth” to last forever. There is no expiration date—ever!—Psalm 119:90 ??? Is it possible, though, that irresponsible humans might spoil the planet beyond recovery? Absolutely not! Unlike human manufacturers, Jehovah is “able to do all things.” (Job 42:2) ??? That is why he can confidently guarantee: “My word that goes forth from my mouth will . . . have certain success.” (Isaiah 55:11) We can be sure that “our Maker” will not allow anything to stop him from carrying out his purpose for the earth. (Psalm 95:6) What is that purpose, and how will God fulfill it? ??? God’s Kingdom Will Carry Out His Purpose In addition to guaranteeing that the earth will never expire, God’s Word also tells us that he “formed it even to be inhabited.” (Isaiah 45:18) Although our earth has been inhabited for thousands of years, that in itself has not fulfilled God’s purpose. ??? Jehovah is a “happy God” and “a lover of justice.” (1 Timothy 1:11; Psalm 37:28) His purpose is for all humans to live happily and free from injustice. In order to carry out his purpose, God foretold that he would set up one Kingdom in the heavens that will rule over the entire earth. (Daniel 2:44) ??? While on earth, Jesus regularly spoke about God’s Kingdom government. He encouraged his disciples to pray for it because he knew of all the blessings that were in store for the earth under the reign of that Kingdom. (Matthew 6:9, 10; 24:14) ??? What are some of those blessings? ▪ ?Peace and security will prevail because God promises to end all wars.—Psalm 46:9. ▪ ?There will be ample food for all.—Psalm 72:16. ▪ ?Health care will not be an issue because “no resident will say: ‘I am sick.’”—Isaiah 33:24. ▪ ?Grieving will not be necessary, for “death will be no more.”—Revelation 21:4. ▪ ?God promises that his people will build their own houses, live in security, and “be joyful forever.”—Isaiah 65:17-24. ???? No doubt you long to enjoy conditions like those outlined above. Jehovah has a fiery zeal—a burning desire—to carry out all that he has foretold. (Isaiah 9:6, 7) ???? Yet, you may wonder: ‘It has been thousands of years since God’s promises were recorded in the Bible. Why have they not yet been fulfilled?’ ???? God’s Patience Leads to Our Salvation Rest assured that “Jehovah is not slow respecting his promise.” The Bible explains that God has been lovingly demonstrating patience with us. Thus, we are encouraged to “consider the patience of our Lord as salvation.” (2 Peter 3:9, 15) ???? But why has God’s patience been necessary for salvation? First of all, God knows that before he can provide righteous humans with a secure and prosperous home, he will have to “bring to ruin those ruining the earth.” (Revelation 11:18) ???? However, because he loves humans, Jehovah “does not desire any to be destroyed.” Consequently, our heavenly Father has been patiently trying “to warn the wicked one from his wicked way.” To that end, Jehovah is having the message about his Kingdom preached worldwide. (Ezekiel 3:17, 18) ???? All who respond favorably to God’s warning and bring their life into harmony with his righteous principles will be granted salvation and enjoy everlasting life on a paradise earth. ???? Turn to God and Be Saved For a certainty, the Bible has “good news” for us. (Matthew 24:14) It gives us God’s unfailing word that our earth will never come to an end! Moreover, according to Bible prophecies, we can have faith that “just a little while longer, and the wicked one will be no more.” Soon, only those righteous in God’s eyes “will possess the earth, and they will indeed find their exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.” (Psalm 37:9-11, 29; Matthew 5:5; Revelation 21:3, 4) ???? Until then, God will continue to call out patiently: “Turn to me and be saved, all you at the ends of the earth.” (Isaiah 45:22) How will you respond? ???? Why not make it your determination to turn to God? Psalm 37:34 exhorts us: “Hope in Jehovah and keep his way, and he will exalt you to take possession of the earth.” Jehovah’s Witnesses will be happy to assist you in learning more about God’s eternal purpose for the earth and how you can live to see that purpose become a reality. ???? "*** w10 1/1 pp. 22-23 Will the Earth Come to an End? ***

What Hope for the Poor? - ??? Nobody likes to see pictures of starvation or little children in lands that are not cared for. Is this God's purpose for man and child and women? God does have a plan, it is because of man's injustice and greed most of this is happening. Read what God will do about it.... PSALMS 35:10 Let all my bones themselves say: “O Jehovah, who is there like you, Delivering the afflicted one from one stronger than he is, And the afflicted and poor one from the one robbing him?” ??? PSALMS 113: 5-7 Who is like Jehovah our God, Him who is making his dwelling on high? 6 He is condescending to look on heaven and earth, 7 Raising up the lowly one from the very dust; He exalts the poor one from the ash pit itself." ??? THERE is nothing wrong with working hard for a living, as long as those who work hard receive a proper wage. Notice the comments of a Bible writer: “I have come to know that there is nothing better . . . than to rejoice . . . and also that every man should eat and indeed drink and see good for all his hard work. It is the gift of God.”—Ecclesiastes 3:12, 13. ??? But as we have seen, the world economic system demands hard labor but often gives workers an inadequate reward. Many remain poor, struggling to survive from day to day. Rarely do they feel inclined to “rejoice” and “see good” because of the life they lead. The wealth of the world has reached remarkable levels, but perhaps half of humanity is left out when it comes to sharing all that bounty. ??? God’s Interest in the Poor ??? Mankind’s Creator, Jehovah God, is not pleased with this situation. Jehovah views the poor with compassion. We read in the Bible: “[God] is sure not to forget the outcry of the afflicted ones.” (Psalm 9:12) Jehovah is a God who cares about the poor. ??? Regarding Jehovah, the Bible says: “To you the unfortunate one, the fatherless boy, commits himself. You yourself have become his helper.” (Psalm 10:14) Notice how this Bible verse refers to afflicted people as individuals.* Yes, God looks at each one and considers his or her needs. To him each person is precious and worthy of attention. Jehovah invites people from all economic levels to learn from him and enjoy his friendship. ??? One thing people learn from God is to show compassion and fellow-feeling for others. Jehovah’s Witnesses consider themselves a large spiritual family. They value one another as individuals—among them true Christian love flourishes. The Lord Jesus Christ once told his followers: “All you are brothers.” (Matthew 23:8) Thus, all who take up true worship become part of a brotherhood that does not discriminate on the basis of wealth. They care for one another and build one another up in times of trouble. ??? Bible principles are practical whether we are rich or poor ??? The Bible contains principles that can mitigate the effects of poverty. The Scriptures show that God condemns polluting the body—as by the use of tobacco—and abusing alcohol. (Proverbs 20:1; 2 Corinthians 7:1) The person living by those principles saves money that would otherwise be wasted on harmful habits. He avoids illness caused by smoking and drunkenness and the subsequent expense of medical treatment. The Bible also teaches people to reject materialistic thinking and greed. (Mark 4:19; Ephesians 5:3) By respecting God’s Word in these matters, a person also avoids wasting his money on gambling. ??? The Bible provides principles for daily living that are practical, even amid severe poverty. Note the following experience: ??? In a land with high unemployment, a factory worker put her job at risk by asking for time off to attend Christian meetings. Her supervisor could easily have fired her. Instead, he surprised her and the other employees by granting her request. Moreover, the supervisor told her that he wanted her to continue working at his factory and praised her as “an exemplary worker.” Why? ??? That worker, one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, lived according to Bible principles. Wishing to ‘conduct herself honestly in all things,’ she did not lie or steal and thus built up a reputation for honesty. (Hebrews 13:18) In obedience to the inspired principle found at Colossians 3:22, 23, she carried out her work “whole-souled.” This means that she obeyed her employer and was careful to give a full day’s work for each day she was paid. ??? Of course, we live amid an economic system in which selfishness rules and profits are all-important. Some who deeply respect Bible principles may still have to struggle to acquire the food, clothing, and shelter they need. But such ones have a clean conscience before their Creator and look forward with confidence to better times ahead, thanks to Jehovah, “the God who gives hope.”—Romans 15:13. ??? Should I Move to Where Things Are Better? ??? God’s Word does not tell people where they are to live and work. Bible principles, however, can help a person determine whether moving to another country for economic reasons is advisable. Note the following questions and the Scriptural principles that apply. ??? Am I being led on by unfounded rumors? Proverbs 14:15 states: “Anyone inexperienced puts faith in every word, but the shrewd one considers his steps.” After he moved to a wealthy country, a man from Eastern Europe said: “I heard that here money grows like leaves on trees. I am still looking for those trees.” ??? Do I have a balanced view of my family’s needs? Am I confusing needs with unrealistic desires? Family heads are obligated to provide materially for their wife and children. (1 Timothy 5:8) But fathers are also responsible to God for educating their children morally and spiritually. (Deuteronomy 6:6, 7; Ephesians 6:4) A father may be able to provide more in a material sense if he moves away. But he cannot provide the moral and spiritual training his children need if he does not see them for weeks, months, or years at a time. ??? Do I realize that a prolonged absence from my wife exposes the two of us to adultery? God’s Word warns married couples to consider the sexual needs of each other.—1 Corinthians 7:5. ??? Do I understand that entering a country illegally can bring serious consequences from the ruling authorities? True Christians are obliged to obey the laws of the land.—Romans 13:1-7. A Permanent Solution to Poverty ??? The Bible reveals the strong feelings Jehovah has against those who promote the unfair oppression of the poor. God’s inspired Word says: “Woe to those who are enacting harmful regulations and those who, constantly writing, have written out sheer trouble, in order to push away the lowly ones from a legal case and to wrest away justice from the afflicted ones . . . , for the widows to become their spoil, and that they may plunder even the fatherless boys!” (Isaiah 10:1, 2) Whether they willingly neglect the poor or they do so in ignorance, those who control the economic workings of human society today are part of an oppressive system that Almighty God is going to replace. ??? The prophet Isaiah asks such oppressors a serious question: “What will you men do at the day of being given attention and at the ruin, when it comes from far away?” (Isaiah 10:3) Jehovah will put them out of business by destroying the unjust system that they perpetuate. ??? But God’s purpose includes more than taking action against oppressors. He will give righthearted humans a way of life free of injustice. By means of a superior form of government, he will allow all humans to lead satisfying, joyful lives free of poverty. To prosper at that time, you will not need a large inheritance of money, good connections, or business acumen. How can we be sure that such changes will take place? ????? Jesus Christ, the one Jehovah has appointed to rule mankind, referred to that wonderful future as the “re-creation.” (Matthew 19:28) This word carries the idea of a renewal, a new start of human life. By using the term “re-creation,” Jesus emphasized that Jehovah will give righteous humans an opportunity to live life as our loving Creator wills. Among the many benefits he will bring to mankind at that time is the permanent removal of the economic load that weighs so many down. ????? The Bible prophetically states regarding the rule of Jesus Christ: “He will deliver the poor one crying for help, also the afflicted one and whoever has no helper. He will feel sorry for the lowly one and the poor one, and the souls of the poor ones he will save. From oppression and from violence he will redeem their soul, and their blood will be precious in his eyes.”—Psalm 72:12-14. ????? This beautiful future is open to you. But for you to meet God’s requirements for life in that new world, it is vital that you first learn and then do the will of the true God. Make wise decisions based on knowledge of God’s Word. Live in expectation of the wonderful future God holds out to all mankind. You will not be disappointed. God’s Word promises: “Not always will the poor one be forgotten, nor will the hope of the meek ones ever perish.”—Psalm 9:18. ????? * Two other Bible verses that highlight God’s concern for suffering humans are Psalm 35:10 and Psalm 113:7. ????? A beautiful future is open to you and everyone in need! ????? Related topics: End of Poverty—How? Mankind’s Problems Soon to End! Poverty—What Can Be Done About It? JW.ORG https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2006321?q=the+poor&p=par

Scrolls of judgment and of life - The Scrolls will be Opened! ??? John also observed that “scrolls were opened” and resurrected ones were “judged out of those things written in the scrolls according to their deeds.” These scrolls apparently contain Jehovah’s laws and instructions setting forth the divine will for humans during that judgment period, and it is their deeds of obedience in faith or of disobedience to what is written in the scrolls that reveal whether they are worthy of having their names written or retained in Jehovah’s “scroll of life.”—Re 20:11-15; ??? What is signified by one’s name being written in God’s “book” or “scroll of life”?The writing of a person’s name in “the book of life” does not predestine that one to eternal life. His name’s remaining there depends on his obedience. Thus Moses pleaded with Jehovah for Israel: “Now if you will pardon their sin,—and if not, wipe me out, please, from your book that you have written.” Jehovah answered: “Whoever has sinned against me, I shall wipe him out of my book.” (Ex 32:32, 33) ??? This indicates that the list of names in “the book” would undergo changes because of disobedience on the part of some, their names being ‘wiped’ or ‘blotted’ out from “the book.”—Re 3:5. ??? In the judgment scene at Revelation 20:11-15, during Christ’s Millennial Reign “the scroll of life” is shown as opened to receive additional names; scrolls of instruction are also opened. Those who come back in the ‘resurrection of the unrighteous’ will thus have the opportunity of having their names written on “the scroll of life,” provided they obediently perform deeds that are in harmony with the scrolls of instruction. (Ac 24:15) ??? Of course, faithful servants of God who come back in the ‘resurrection of the righteous’ will already have their names in “the scroll of life.” By their loyal obedience to the divine instructions, they will keep their names in it. ??? How does a person get his name permanently retained in “the book of life”? For those who are in line to receive heavenly life, it is by ‘conquering’ this world through faith, proving themselves “faithful even to death.” (Re 2:10; 3:5) For those who are in line to receive life on earth, it is by proving loyal to Jehovah through a final, decisive test at the end of Christ’s Millennial Reign. (Re 20:7, ??? Those who maintain integrity through that final test will have their names retained permanently by God in “the book of life,” Jehovah thus acknowledging that they are righteous in the complete sense and worthy of the right to everlasting life on earth.—Ro 8:33. ??? “The Lamb’s scroll.” “The scroll of life of the Lamb” is a separate scroll, apparently containing only the names of those with whom the Lamb, Jesus Christ, shares his Kingdom rule, including those still on earth who are in line to receive heavenly life. (Re 13:8; compare Re 14:1, 4.) ??? Those enrolled in “the Lamb’s scroll” are spoken of as entering the holy city, New Jerusalem, thus becoming part of the heavenly Messianic Kingdom. (Re 21:2, 22-27) Their names are written both in “the Lamb’s scroll” and in the other scroll, God’s “book of life.”—Php 4:3; Re 3:5. ??? (Revelation 20:12) And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and scrolls were opened. But another scroll was opened; it is the scroll of life. And the dead were judged out of those things written in the scrolls according to their deeds." ??? (Acts 24:15) and I have hope toward God, which hope these [men] themselves also entertain, that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous. ??? (Revelation 11:18) But the nations became wrathful, and your own wrath came, and the appointed time for the dead to be judged, and to give [their] reward to your slaves the prophets and to the holy ones and to those fearing your name, the small and the great, and to bring to ruin those ruining the earth.” ??? (Exodus 32:33) However, Jehovah said to Moses: “Whoever has sinned against me, I shall wipe him out of my book." ??? (Psalm 69:28) Let them be wiped out of the book of the living ones, And with the righteous ones may they not be written in." ??? (Daniel 12:1) “And during that time Mi′cha·el will stand up, the great prince who is standing in behalf of the sons of your people. And there will certainly occur a time of distress such as has not been made to occur since there came to be a nation until that time. And during that time your people will escape, every one who is found written down in the book." ??? (John 5:28-29) . . .Do not marvel at this, because the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice 29 and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life, those who practiced vile things to a resurrection of judgment." https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200003862?q=scrolls+of+life&p=par

"The fruitage of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control." Gal. 5:22, 23 ❤️❤️❤️❤️ We are wise to take stock of ourselves to be sure that our words and actions give evidence that we are directed by holy spirit and are producing its fruitage. (2 Cor. 13:5a; Gal. 5:25) ❤️❤️❤️❤️ If we see that we need to cultivate some aspects of the fruitage of the spirit, we can cooperate with holy spirit to a greater degree in producing such qualities. ❤️❤️❤️❤️ We do this by studying each aspect as it is revealed through the pages of the Bible and discussed in our Christian publications. Thus we can discern how the spirit’s fruitage should be manifested in our everyday life and then work to cultivate it to a greater extent. As we observe the results of the operation of God’s spirit in our own life as well as in the lives of our fellow Christians, we clearly see why we must be guided by it. ❤️❤️❤️❤️ w11 12/15 2:16, 17

@Carol Ann Torres What a joy we can learn this lessons from Jehovah's Beautiful creations! Thank you for your support! Agape, ???????

"I bend my knees to the Father, to whom every family in heaven and on earth owes its name."—Eph. 3:14, 15. ??????? ARE YOU ALLOWING GOD’S SPIRIT TO GUIDE YOU? When God created the universe, Jesus was his “master worker.” So Jesus knew all about earth’s magnetism, the force that helps humans when they use a compass. (Proverbs 8:30; John 1:3) The Bible does not say that Jesus ever used magnetism to guide his way when he was on earth. But the Bible does say that God’s holy spirit was a powerful force in Jesus’ life as a human. He wanted to be guided by it. When the spirit directed him to do something, he accepted its direction and did it. (Mark 1:12, 13; Luke 4:14) ??????? Do you allow God’s spirit to guide you as Jesus did? What must we do for holy spirit to guide us? ??????? Today, God’s active force still directs those who are willing to be guided by it. How can you allow it to lead you in the right direction? Always pray to Jehovah that he send you his spirit and help you accept its guidance. (Read Ephesians 3:14-16.) ??????? Show that you want to be guided by God’s spirit by studying the Bible, which was inspired of God through his holy spirit. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17) Obey the wise instructions in it, and then accept the direction of holy spirit. By doing these things, you show that you have faith in Jehovah’s ability to guide you the best way possible in this wicked world. ??????? SOME WORDS EXPLAINED ▪ ?Holy spirit: Energy from God that he uses on people or things to make sure that whatever he wants will happen. It is also called his active force ▪ ??The fruitage of the spirit: A group of qualities shown by those who are guided by holy spirit. The qualities are: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, and self-control ▪ ??The works of the flesh: Bad actions of those who are guided by the spirit of the world. The actions are: fornication, uncleanness, loose conduct, idolatry, practice of spiritism, enmities, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, contentions, divisions, sects, envies, drunken bouts, revelries, and things like these https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/402011921?q=eph+3%3A14&p=par

"Humble yourself."—Prov. 6:3. Servants of God cultivate the spirit of a lesser one by admitting their mistakes and asking for forgiveness. ??????‍♀️ WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW Everyone needs correction. “We all stumble many times.”—James 3:2. ??????‍♀️ Being corrected does not mean you are a failure. “Those whom Jehovah* loves he reproves, just as a father does a son in whom he delights.”—Proverbs 3:12. ??????‍♀️ Correction can help you become a better person. “Listen to discipline and become wise.”—Proverbs 8:33. ??????‍♀️ WHAT YOU CAN DO Look at the matter objectively. You might be inclined to take offense at the correction. But try to put your feelings aside. To help you do that, take yourself out of the situation for a moment and imagine that you are giving the same correction to someone else—perhaps a younger sibling. Can you now see at least some merit in the counsel? Now put yourself back into the situation and try to view the matter the same way.—Bible principle: Ecclesiastes 7:9. ??????‍♀️ Stay humble. Do not let pride cause you to reject the correction. On the other hand, do not allow yourself to become overwhelmed with discouragement just because you have something to work on. Humility will help you to avoid either extreme. Remember: The correction that hurts the most may be the correction that you need the most. If, for whatever reason, you reject it, you miss out on a valuable opportunity to grow.—Bible principle: Proverbs 16:18. .??????‍♀️ Be thankful. Even if you find the correction difficult to accept, why not express your gratitude to the person who gave it? Undoubtedly, that person has your best interests at heart and truly wants you to succeed.—Bible principle: Psalm 141:5. .??????‍♀️ KEY SCRIPTURES ?“Do not be quick to take offense.”—Ecclesiastes 7:9. ?“Pride is before a crash.”—Proverbs 16:18. ?“Should the righteous one strike me [with reproof], it would be an act of loyal love.”—Psalm 141:5. https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/102014123?q=humble+yourself&p=par

"God for the first time turned his attention to the nations to take out of them a people for his name."—Acts 15:14.

If you go to link it will tell you? Perhaps Russian though.