Bible Speaks

"Jesus said to him: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) 

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Jesus Christ is “the way.” That is, he is the only one through whom it is possible for us to approach God. This is true in the matter of prayer, for only by praying through Jesus do we have the assurance that the Father will give us whatever we may request in harmony with His will. (John 15:16) 

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However, Jesus is “the way” also in a further sense. Sin has alienated mankind from God. (Isa. 59:2) Jesus gave “his soul a ransom in exchange for many.” (Matt. 20:28) As a result, the Bible explains: “The blood of Jesus . . . cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7) 

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The Son has thus opened up the way of reconciliation with God. (Rom. 5:8-10) It is by putting faith in Jesus and obeying him that we can have an approved relationship with God.—John 3:36

 SELF-CONTROL is a godly quality. (Gal. 5:22, 23) 

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Jehovah possesses self-control in perfect measure. Humans, however, are imperfect and therefore struggle to maintain self-control. Indeed, many of the problems that people face today stem from a lack of self-control. That lack may result in procrastination and underperformance in school or at work. It may also lead to verbal abuse, drunkenness, violence, divorce, needless debt, addiction, imprisonment, emotional trauma, sexually transmitted disease, and unwanted pregnancy, to name a few.—Ps. 34:11-14. 

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Clearly, people who lack self-control are causing problems for themselves and for others. And the problem of lacking self-control is worsening. Self-discipline was studied in the 1940’s, but recent studies have shown that people have become much worse at exercising self-discipline. This is no surprise to students of God’s Word because the Bible foretold that one evidence that we are living in “the last days” is that men would be “without self-control.”—2 Tim. 3:1-3.

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Lesson for today. (Proverbs 14:29; 15:28; 19:2. WT Study)

https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2017560?#h=2:0-4:0

1 hour ago, Srecko Sostar said:

 

@Srecko Sostar

If religion is true it will promote peace and unity world wide. If false it will never stand. 

• Matthew (‎11 occurrences)
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  • 25 But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them “Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and any city or family dividedagainst itself will not be kept up; 

  • by Matthew 1:1-28:20 - Byington (by) 
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Thank you for your support!

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1 hour ago, J.R. Ewing said:

@J.R. Ewing

Appreciating Jehovah’s Spiritual Provisions

When we exert ourselves in JehovahÂ’s service, what can we expect as to spiritual provisions?

If you treasure your privilege of serving Jehovah, you can be sure that he will supply your physical and spiritual needs, just as he provided sustenance for the Levites. Think about David. Though he was in a cave, he could count on God to provide for him. We too can rely on Jehovah even when we see no way out. Recall that when Asaph came “into the grand sanctuary of God,” he gained insight into what was distressing him. (Ps. 73:17) Similarly, we need to turn to the divine Source of our spiritual nourishment. Thus we show appreciation for our privilege of serving God no matter what our circumstances may be. We are thereby letting Jehovah be our share.

How should we respond when there is increased light on certain scriptures, and why?

How do you react when Jehovah, the Source of spiritual enlightenment, sheds light on “the deep things of God” found in the Bible? (1 Cor. 2:10-13) We have an excellent example in the apostle Peter’s reaction when Jesus told His listeners: “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in yourselves.” Taking those words literally, many disciples said: “This speech is shocking; who can listen to it?” They “went off to the things behind.” But Peter said: “Lord, whom shall we go away to? You have sayings of everlasting life.”—John 6:53, 60, 66, 68.

Peter did not fully understand what Jesus said about eating His flesh and drinking His blood. But the apostle relied on God for spiritual enlightenment. When spiritual light on some matter gets brighter, do you try to understand the underlying Scriptural reasons for the adjustment? (Prov. 4:18) The first-century Beroeans received the word “with the greatest eagerness of mind, carefully examining the Scriptures daily.” (Acts 17:11) Imitating them will deepen your appreciation for your privilege to serve Jehovah, to have him be your share.

Move Ahead With the Chariot! 

https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2011683?q=light+gets+brighter+and+brighter&p=par

 

Keep Building Upbuilding One Another ~

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"Therefore, keep encouraging one another and building one another up, just as you are in fact doing." (1Thess 5:11) 

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“Keep comforting one another and building one another up.”—(1 THESS. 5:11)

BEING a member of the Christian congregation is a great blessing indeed. You have a good relationship with Jehovah. Your reliance on his Word as a guide shields you from the bad consequences of an unchristian lifestyle. You are surrounded by genuine friends, who want you to do well. Yes, the blessings are many. Most Christians, however, are struggling with problems of one kind or another. Some of them may need help to understand the deeper things of GodÂ’s Word. Others are sick or depressed, or they may be suffering the consequences of unwise decisions. And we all have to live in an ungodly world.

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None of us like to see fellow Christians suffer or struggle. The apostle Paul likened the congregation to a body and said that “if one member suffers, all the other members suffer with it.” (1 Cor. 12:12, 26) In such circumstances, we should strive to support our brothers and sisters. 

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Various pressures cause people to suffer from depression today. Statistics from the World Health Organization state that as many as 1 in 5 of the population may suffer from depression at some time in their life. JehovahÂ’s people are not immune. Problems in providing for oneÂ’s family, ill health, discouragement over oneÂ’s failings, or other factors may contribute to feelings of downheartedness.

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We too should encourage brothers who are discouraged or depressed. Doubtless there are positive things that we can say about their service to Jehovah. Perhaps they have made great changes in their lives in order to become Christians or to serve in the full-time ministry. We appreciate those efforts, and we can assure them that Jehovah does too. If advancing age or ill health prevents some faithful ones from doing all they once could, they nevertheless merit all our respect for their years of service. Whatever the case may be, Jehovah’s recommendation to all of his faithful ones is: “Speak consolingly to the depressed souls, support the weak, be long-suffering toward all.”—1 Thess . 5:14
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https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2010442

 

Children playing music at the funeral of their amazing teacher who helped them escape poverty and violence through the magic of music. -

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We All Long For Freedom! Soon All Tears Will Be No More." ???

(Rev. 31:3,4) 

"With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his people. And God himself will be with them. 4 And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” (Romans 8:21) Rev.

"The creation itself will also be set free from enslavement to corruption and have the glorious freedom of the children of God." 

The World at Night project

The morning twilight emerges as stars and the crescent moon rise above the tomb of Cyrus the Great in this time-exposure image. The 2500-year old World Heritage Site in southern Iran means beyond an ancient monument to many Iranians who celebrate today October 29th (7th of Aban in Persian calendar) as Cyrus Day. This unofficial holiday which brings thousands of people to the ancient site of Pasargadae is sensitive to the Islamic authorities in Iran who are concerned of growing interest in pre-Islamic values and traditions. 

October 29th commemorates the entrance of Cyrus into Babylon. He founded the Persian Empire known as Achaemenid, which later became the largest empire in human history. Cyrus is recognized for his achievements in politics, leadership, and freedom of religion which influenced both Eastern and Western civilizations. I often wonder how many of us will be remembered in 2500 years, for good. 

Development of the Medo-Persian Empire. (MAP, Vol. 2, p. 327) Like the Medes, the Persians seem to have been ruled by several noble families. One of these families produced the Achaemenian dynasty of kings, the royal line from which came the founder of the Persian Empire, Cyrus the Great. Cyrus, who, according to Herodotus and Xenophon, was born of a Persian father and a Median mother, united the Persians under his leadership. (Herodotus, I, 107, 108; Cyropaedia, I, ii, 1) Till then the Medes had been dominant over the Persians, but Cyrus gained a swift victory over Median King Astyages and captured his capital city of Ecbatana (550 B.C.E.). (Compare Da 8:3, 20.) The Median Empire thus came under the control of the Persians.

Although the Medes continued subservient to the Persians during the remainder of the Achaemenian dynasty, there can be no doubt as to the dual nature of the empire that resulted. Thus, the book History of the Persian Empire (p. 37) says: “The close relationship between Persians and Medes was never forgotten. Plundered Ecbatana remained a favorite royal residence. Medes were honored equally with Persians.

https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200003447?q=cyrus+the+persian&p=par

What Does It Mean to Be Loyal? ??????

Lesson for today. (Eph 5:22, 23) 
1 Complaining to your friends
This point is number 1 for a big reason, guys. Believe me when I say that I know the feeling of just needing to complain to someone! I mean, some things are just really hard to bring up to your spouse but you feel as though you will have a mental breakdown if someone doesnÂ’t know what youÂ’re dealing with. I get it.

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But being totally real here, complaining about your husband to others is one of the worst things you can do for your relationship with him. Having a friend who will actually fight for your marriage is hard to find. What (sadly) too many friends will do is blindly side with us because

1. they donÂ’t want to hurt our feelings and tell us if weÂ’re overreacting or

2. theyÂ’re biased (probably why we went to them in the first place, and

3. it’s not their marriage. It honestly doesn’t really affect them if you have a healthy one or not, other than maybe having to listen to more future complaints. I have seen so many well meaning friends give awful, extremely selfish advice to their married friends. Be so very careful. 

*JUST AS IMPORTANT*

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I’d like us to take a moment, grab your husband’s loafers, and take a walk in them. Imagine a scene where he met up with one of his buds for coffee (or to workout? Whatever he does). They spend the first few minutes of the hangout chatting about life and then his pal asks how you (miss wifey) are doing. He says you’re fine and then begins to open up about how you nagged him earlier or how he doesn’t feel appreciated for all his hard work and how sometimes you can just be plain mean. 
Now, do our husbands do that? I’m going to say no. Anything past “What’d you have for lunch today?” Is probably veering towards too personal for them.

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We as women, though, could probably open up to the cashier at Wal-Mart without thinking twice. Sometimes we just need to be heard. We find it way easier to express our feelings, complaints, and fears to our peers. And yeah, this can be a great thing but that can also be hugely detrimental to the moral of our spouse if we use it to complain about him to our pals (or family). 

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Next time you feel the urge to complain about your spouse to a friend or family member, think about how it would make him feel if he accidentally overheard you. This simple thought has saved me from many would-be regretful complaints!

8 of the Worst Marriage Habits –

  https://pin.it/fq7iZO_

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Will our loyalty extend to our closest relative—our marriage mate? Even as Jehovah honored his covenant relationship with the nation of Israel, are we loyal to our wedding vows?

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More than being unswerving in allegiance, actively pursue a close relationship with your mate. Take the initiative to make your marriage secure.

Spend time together, communicate freely and openly with each other, support and encourage each other, listen to each other, laugh together, cry together, play together, work together to achieve mutual goals, please each other, be friends. Be especially careful to avoid developing romantic feelings toward others.

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While it is right and proper to develop acquaintances and even close friendships with others outside of your marriage, romantic feelings should be limited to your mate. Do not let anyone else come between you and your mate.—Proverbs 5:15-20.

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https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2001725?q=support+mate&p=par

Babylon and Cyrus the Persian – Bible History! – Fact! 

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On this day (29th October) 539 BCE the Persian king Cyrus II walked triumphantly into Babylon, the ancient Mesopotamian capital and seat of a huge empire that straddled the middle east. Iranian communities around the world mark this day as “Cyrus the Great Day” or “Cyrus Day”, ??? ????? October 29 (7th of Aban ????)

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After taking Babylon, Cyrus proclaimed himself "King of Babylon... king of the four corners of the world" in the famous Cyrus Cylinder. The text of the cylinder portrays the victorious Cyrus addressing the Babylonian god Marduk, and how Cyrus had improved the lives of Babylonians, repatriated displaced peoples, and restored cult sanctuaries and temples. Some assert that the cylinder represents a form of human rights charter, whilst other historians place it in the context of a long-standing Mesopotamian tradition of new rulers beginning their reigns with declarations of reforms. Cyrus the Great's dominions comprised the largest empire the world had ever seen. 

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These 2 images: a photograph of The tomb of Cyrus the Great, founder of the Achaemenid Empire, at Pasargadae; and detail of bas relief at the Archaemenid city of Persepolis. Both located in Fars Province, central Iran, and both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Learn more here on the Bible and Cyrus the Persian -

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https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200003447?q=cyrus+the+persian&p=par

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Development of the Medo-Persian Empire. (MAP, Vol. 2, p. 327) Like the Medes, the Persians seem to have been ruled by several noble families. One of these families produced the Achaemenian dynasty of kings, the royal line from which came the founder of the Persian Empire, Cyrus the Great. Cyrus, who, according to Herodotus and Xenophon, was born of a Persian father and a Median mother, united the Persians under his leadership. (Herodotus, I, 107, 108; Cyropaedia, I, ii, 1) Till then the Medes had been dominant over the Persians, but Cyrus gained a swift victory over Median King Astyages and captured his capital city of Ecbatana (550 B.C.E.). (Compare Da 8:3, 20.) The Median Empire thus came under the control of the Persians.

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Although the Medes continued subservient to the Persians during the remainder of the Achaemenian dynasty, there can be no doubt as to the dual nature of the empire that resulted. Thus, the book History of the Persian Empire (p. 37) says: “The close relationship between Persians and Medes was never forgotten. Plundered Ecbatana remained a favorite royal residence. Medes were honored equally with Persians; they were employed in high office and were chosen to lead Persian armies. Foreigners spoke regularly of the Medes and Persians; when they used a single term, it was ‘the Mede.’”

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Under Cyrus, the Medo-Persian Empire expanded farther W, reaching to the Aegean Sea as a result of the Persian victory over King Croesus of Lydia and the subjugation of certain Greek coastal cities. His major conquest, however, came in 539 B.C.E. when Cyrus, at the head of a combined force of Medes, Persians, and Elamites, took mighty Babylon, in fulfillment of the Biblical prophecies. (Isa 21:2, 9; 44:26–45:7; Da 5:28) 

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With Babylon’s fall came the end of a long period of Semitic supremacy, now superseded by the first dominant world power of Aryan (Japhetic) descent. It also brought the land of Judah (as well as Syria and Phoenicia) within the Medo-Persian domain. By Cyrus’ decree, in 537 B.C.E. the exiled Jews were allowed to return to their homeland, which had lain desolate for exactly 70 years.—2Ch 36:20-23; see CYRUS.

Children also Love the “Great Teacher”!

Tap on Link mp4 ______So Sweet!

Caleb and Sophia Reading morning the Great Teacher Book ?

"Put away all filthiness and that superfluous thing, badness."— (Jas. 1:21)

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Our resolve will be like that of the psalmist who sang: “I shall walk about in the integrity of my heart inside my house. I shall not set in front of my eyes any good-for-nothing thing.”—Ps. 101:2, 3

Watchtower  2013/7/20

Prejudice—A Global Problem! -

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How Can We be One with Barriers? 

God is not Partial to Color! ~ “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. ? What does the Bible say? “The wisdom from above [from God] is . . . peaceable, reasonable, . . . not making partial distinctions.” (James 3:17) “The true worshipers will worship the Father with spirit and [religious] truth.” (John 4:23) “Love your enemies and . . . pray for those persecuting you.” (Matthew 5:44) 

Ask yourself: ‘Does my religion promote genuine love toward all, even toward those who may want to hurt me? Are the doors of my church open to people of all kinds, regardless of nationality, skin color, gender, income, or social status?’ Do You View Others as Jehovah Does? “There should be no division in the body . . . Its members should have the same care for one another.”—1 COR. 12:25. 

There is no doubt that we can make adjustments in our attitude with the help of Jehovah’s spirit. 

If we find that there are hidden traces of prejudice in us, let us work to root them out and to “observe the oneness of the spirit in the uniting bond of peace.” (Eph. 4:3-6) 

The Bible encourages us to “clothe [ourselves] with love, for it is a perfect bond of union.”—Col. 3:14 

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Before and Now #jw best life ever! – Wow! – Look at This! 

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How to Find Happiness - 

Yet How Can I Erase Sadness? ~ ?????

What is the key to happiness? ? Jesus mentioned happiness in the very first words of his most famous sermon. He said: “Happy are those conscious of their spiritual need.” (Matthew 5:3) What did he mean? 

What is our spiritual need?

To survive, we need to breathe, drink, and eat, just as animals do. But to be happy, we have a need that animals do not have—the need for understanding the purpose of life. Only the Creator of life can fill that need. Thus, Jesus said: “Man must live, not on bread alone, but on every utterance coming forth through Jehovah’s mouth.” (Matthew 4:4) 

Those who are conscious of their spiritual need are happy because they draw close to Jehovah, “the happy God,” and he gives them something vital for happiness—hope.—1 Timothy 1:11. 

How did Jesus give hope? ? “Happy are the mild-tempered ones, since they will inherit the earth,” said Jesus. (Matthew 5:5) Jesus gave hope to mankind by curing sick people and raising dead people back to life on earth. He also came with a message of hope. He explained: “God loved the world so much that he gave his only-begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) 

People who obey God will enjoy everlasting life on earth. Can you imagine living among mild-tempered people and never growing old? No wonder God’s Word says: “Rejoice in the hope.” (Romans 12:12) Jesus also discussed how to find happiness now. 

What happy way of life did Jesus teach? 

Find the Answers here and the rest of the article at:

https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2010566?q=happiness&p=par

Children a Gift ? From Jehovah! – It Shows Their Loving Parents Are Studying With Them In Family Worship ?

Tap on Video Link mp4 ______So cute! ??

They arrive every day. One envelope a day, every day, to our Kingdom Hall. And they have been for years. If I see them, I’ll picked them up from the pile of mail that the postman pushes through the mail slot that land on the floor. IÂ’ll pin them to the backboard for the accounting dept to see and collect. 

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Nobody knows who mails them. The return address and the mailing address have both our same KH address and no zip code. Yet, the postal service knows exactly where these need to arrive. Inside the envelope is one dollar with no note. One single dollar, which is added to the contribution box. I’ve collected these empty envelopes from the accounting brothers over the years hoping that one day, an envelope will hold a clue as to who the person is that mails these donations or where they come from. 

There are many speculations. Could it be the final wishes of a deceased loved one? Someone who is indebted to Jehovah and does this as a way to thank God for an answered prayer? A local neighbor?

Thank you ?

UN demands Tajikistan free detained Jehovah’s Witness

By Kimberly Winston  | October 25, 2017
(RNS) — A United Nations committee is calling for the immediate release of an 18-year-old Jehovah’s Witness the panel says is being unlawfully detained in Tajikistan because of his faith.

The U.N.Â’s Working Group on Arbitrary Detention says Daniil Islamov is imprisoned in Tajikistan for conscientiously objecting to the countryÂ’s mandatory military service. Though JehovahÂ’s Witnesses pay taxes, IslamovÂ’s faith precludes him from reciting patriotic pledges, singing nationalistic songs or joining the military.

The right of Jehovah’s Witnesses to adhere to their faith’s rejection of military service — they believe their allegiance is only to God — is recognized in the U.S. and other Western countries. But Tajikistan has no law concerning conscientious objectors.
Islamov sought permission for alternative civilian service but was denied, according to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner on Human Rights, which oversees the Working Group.

“The Working Group considers that, taking into account all the circumstances of the case, the appropriate remedy would be to release Mr. Islamov immediately and to accord him an enforceable right to compensation and other reparations, in accordance with international law,” a resolution passed by WGAD on Islamov’s case reads.

Islamov, who turned 18 in January, was forcibly conscripted into TajikistanÂ’s military in April and promptly arrested for refusing to wear a military uniform and take the oath of service.

From the JehovahÂ’s WitnessesÂ’ New York world headquarters, spokesman David A. Semonian said itÂ’s encouraging that the Working Group declared IslamovÂ’s pretrial detention arbitrary.

But “we are very concerned that the Working Group’s opinion had no effect on the court’s subsequent decision to convict and imprison him for conscientiously refusing to serve in the military,” Semonian said. “We will update the Working Group on this disturbing development, and we expect that they will issue an even stronger directive to release Daniil.”

Jehovah’s Witnesses have recently suffered crackdowns in Russia and other former Soviet republics, including Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Ukraine. In April, Russia declared Jehovah’s Witnesses “extremists” and formally banned them.
In May, the Witnesses, who number about 8 million worldwide, released a report documenting 50 cases of persecution, including harassment, beatings, the closing of churches and arson attacks.

Increasingly, the crackdowns are focused on the young, including children.
Among them was the case of an 8-year-old Russian girl forced by her principal to sing patriotic songs before her classmates.
JehovahÂ’s Witnesses have appealed RussiaÂ’s decision to ban them, but that appeal was denied. A second and final appeal is in process.

ABOUT KIMBERLY WINSTON
https://religionnews.com/2017/10/25/un-demands-tajikistan-free-detained-jehovahs-witness/

Armageddon Survivors

A celestial phenomena is reverberating across the entire planet! All the streets and buildings are collapsing in an instant and the cities are being destroyed at will worldwide. The sights and sounds are so unforgettable it leaves the "great crowd" gasping in awe.

Jehovah's Day of Judgment to vindicate his sovereignty has finally arrived!!! Then it gets quiet. Everyone is stunned and choked up with emotion. Is it all over? Did we just come out of the great tribulation?

Suddenly the skies begin to open up miraculously and the universal rejoicing of the marriage of the lamb takes place! You see your loved ones cheering loudly and singing with extreme excitement!! And some are hitting the ground on their knees, with tears of relief streaming down their faces. This day will be remembered for the rest of eternity!

After standing before Jehovah's throne, everyone walks side by side to contemplate the ruins and you come across your old neighborhood, completely destroyed. The old system of things has disappeared forever. And when the cleanup begins, many of us break down again and again, crying happy tears until we run out of tears.

The years pass by and gradually the earth looks more beautiful. The sky becomes clearer, rivers and lakes become cleaner. Even the stars seem to shine more brightly.

Then one evening you witness an extraordinary sight: A beautiful little girl is walking down the road with an elephant, surrounded by grass and blossoming flowers everywhere.

Finally the day arrives when you get assigned to live in another area. The thrilling resurrection is beginning to take place and you will embark on an amazing journey to give bible studies to resurrected people in their place of origin! You hug your family and friends goodbye, thrilled to carry out your assignment. No matter where you go, no matter what you do, everything will be done for Jehovah: "Here I am! Send me."

And as you walk off into the sunset toward the boat, you gaze at the sky and you say another prayer of thanks to Jehovah, one of many prayers that will last throughout all eternity. 

? Let your name be sanctified. 
? Let your Kingdom come. 
? Let your will take place. 
? As in heaven, also on earth!

– Contributed ???

2 Corinthians 10:5 For we are overturning reasonings and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are bringing every thought into captivity to make it obedient to the Christ.”

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The Truth Brings, “Not Peace, But a Sword”

“Do not think I came to bring peace to the earth; I came to bring, not peace, but a sword.”—MATT. 10:34.

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WE ALL want peaceful lives, free from anxiety. How thankful we are that Jehovah grants us “the peace of God,” an inner calm that can protect us from disturbing thoughts and feelings! (Phil. 4:6, 7) Because of our dedication to Jehovah, we also enjoy “peace with God,” a good relationship with him.—Rom. 5:1.

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However, God’s time to bring about complete peace has not yet come. These critical last days are filled with conflict, and countless people have contentious attitudes. (2 Tim. 3:1-4) As Christians, we must wage a spiritual war against Satan and the false teachings that he promotes. (2 Cor. 10:4, 5) But the greatest threat to our peace may come from unbelieving relatives. Some might ridicule our beliefs, accuse us of dividing the family, or threaten to disown us unless we give up our faith. How should we view family opposition? How can we successfully deal with the challenges it brings?

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Jesus said that if we were to put any human before him, we would not be worthy of him. Yet, he was confident that his disciples would have the courage to maintain their loyalty to him despite family opposition. If following Jesus has brought “a sword” into your family, rely on Jehovah to help you deal with the challenges successfully. (Isa. 41:10, 13) Find joy in knowing that Jehovah and Jesus are pleased with you and that they will reward your faithful course.

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https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2017603?q=2+cor+10%3A5&p=par

Seems like these are "peaceable" need your grass cut? Llama a Workhorse 

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Thank you Jehovah God - Maybe in the New World ? a way to help us cut our grass? 

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The Llama—Workhorse of the Andes

It is neither as strong as an ass nor as fast as a horse. Still, the llama outshines them both as a valuable pack animal. Indeed, it can carry up to 130 pounds [60 kg] on its back. If it feels that its load is too heavy, the llama will simply sit and wonÂ’t budge until the load is lightened to its liking. If you try to coerce it, the llama may regurgitate food from the first of its three stomachs and spit it out with amazing precision and force.

Yet, llamas are generally docile, and a gentle handler can guide a long train of llamas through inhospitable high plateaus where other pack animals cannot endure the lack of oxygen. The llamasÂ’ capability in mountainous terrain has led to their now being used as pack animals not only in the Andes but also in the Italian Alps. The llamaÂ’s rope, harness, and blanket may be made from its own wool.

Llamas on Guard

In order to guard their sheep, North American ranchers are turning to llamas. According to The Globe and Mail, of Canada, llamas “strongly identify with other animals with which they spend time.” They aggressively guard their flock by sounding an alarm call, herding the sheep, chasing intruders away, and kicking or pawing at predators. Some farmers even prefer llamas over guard dogs because they are relatively inexpensive to buy. In addition, says the paper, “because llamas graze and sleep with the sheep, there are no extra expenses for their care—and they can outlast popular breeds of guard dogs by several years.” One Canadian sheep farmer who owns llamas described the advantages this way: “They don’t cost you anything,” and “they don’t bark.”

Halloween: "What Does The Bible Say About It?"

Please click on the link enclosed and learn the truth about this pagan holiday.

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"The Truth About Halloween: -

https://www.jw.org/en/publications/magazines/g201309/truth-about-halloween/#link0

Joshua 1:8 This book of the Law should not depart from your mouth, and you must read it in an undertone day and night, in order to observe carefully all that is written in it; for then your way will be successful and then you will act wisely.”

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MEDITATION

The kind of deep, concentrated thinking in which a person seriously reflects on past experiences, ponders and muses over current matters, or thoughtfully contemplates possible future events.

In order to meditate properly, a person needs to be free from distractions, alone with his thoughts, so to speak. Isaac, for example, went out walking alone in the early evening to meditate, possibly about his coming marriage to Rebekah. (Ge 24:63) It was during the solitude of the night watches that the psalmist meditated on the greatness of his Grand Creator. (Ps 63:6) The meditations of the heart should be focused on beneficial things, on Jehovah’s splendor and activities, on things pleasing to him (Ps 19:14; 49:3; 77:12; 143:5; Php 4:8), and not on the devices of the wicked.—Pr 24:1, 2.

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By engaging in profitable meditation, one will not be inclined to give foolish answers. He will seriously think out these matters of importance, and as a result, the answers given will be from the heart and will not be something to regret later on.—Pr 15:28.

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When Joshua was appointed as the overseer of the nation of Israel, he was instructed to make a copy of Jehovah’s law, and he was told (as rendered in many Bible versions) to “meditate” thereon day and night. (Jos 1:8; AS, KJ, JB, RS) The Hebrew word here for “meditate” is ha·ghah?. It basically means “utter inarticulate sounds” and is rendered “moan,” ‘growl,’ ‘coo,’ and ‘mutter.’ (Isa 16:7; 31:4; 38:14; 59:3) Ha·ghah? also has the meanings “utter in an undertone” and “meditate.” (Ps 35:28; Pr 15:28) The New World Translation appropriately renders the Hebrew term ha·ghah?, appearing in Joshua 1:8, “you must in an undertone read.” (See also Ps 1:2.) Reading in an undertone would impress more indelibly on the mind the material on which one was meditating. Gesenius’s Hebrew and Chaldee Lexicon (translated by S. Tregelles, 1901, p. 215) says of ha·ghah?: “Prop[erly] to speak with oneself, murmuring and in a low voice, as is often done by those who are musing.”—Compare Ps 35:28; 37:30; 71:24; Isa 8:19; 33:18.

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The apostle Paul told Timothy that he should ponder over or be meditating on his conduct, ministry, and teaching. As an overseer, Timothy had to be unusually careful that he taught sound doctrine and that his way of life was exemplary.—1Ti 4:15.

https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/1200002958?q=joshua+1%3A8&p=par

How would you like being baptized in the cold ocean at a circuit assembly in Ketchikan, Alaska? Thank Jehovah it’s available! 

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"You can ban the witnesses but you can never ban what they witness"

JW Russian brothers and sisters  after convention in Finland.. Very happy people. 

Hi from Russia..??????

The battle over Jehovah’s Witnesses in Russia

Last April, RussiaÂ’s Supreme Court banned JehovahÂ’s Witnesses, which came as a blow to the freedom of religion. How the European Court of Human Rights rules on the many cases against Russia, will reveal much about the future of the CourtÂ’s influence and the rule of law in the country.

October 25, 2017 - James T. Richardson - 

Image by Tom Morris

On April 20th 2017, RussiaÂ’s Supreme Court issued a ruling liquidating the administrative centre of JehovahÂ’s Witnesses in Russia, as well as all of their 395 local religious organisations. The court ruling also authorises confiscation of all property belonging to the church and directs them to cease all activities. The decision was upheld on July 17th by the appellate chamber of the Supreme Court, and on August 17th the Ministry of Justice added the church to the list of banned extremist organisations.

By virtue of these official actions at the highest levels of the Russian government and its judicial system, the Witnesses have been effectively liquidated and banned throughout Russia. The 175,000 members of Witness congregations are thus subject to criminal charges for practising their faith.

What this means for members of Witness communities in Russia is unclear, but there have already been a number of actions taken by authorities in various parts of the country that have targeted the peaceful efforts of Witnesses to meet and share their faith with others. Moreover, some Russian citizens, emboldened by the official rhetoric, have taken vigilant, often violent, actions against individual Witnesses.

Fighting spiritual opposition

The court decision was based on the Ministry of Justice claim made on March 15th 2017 that the Witnesses are an extremist organisation and should, therefore, be liquidated. This designation has been widely criticised internationally and within Russia by those supportive of individual rights such as religious freedom.

The designation of the Witnesses as extremist is especially ironic given the churchÂ’s official opposition to violence. It has long expressed strong support for conscientious objector status, which thanks to WitnessesÂ’ advocacy of alternative modes of serving their countries, has become the norm among many nations. However, the Russian government seems bent on forcing the Witnesses and a few other minority religious organisations to cease activities.

Few observers accept the claim that the Witnesses are an extremist organisation and in any way involved in activities that promote terrorism. This puzzling situation has led to much speculation about the real reasons for governmentÂ’s change of rhetoric. One prominent suggestion is that the Russian Orthodox Church has encouraged the actions as part of its campaign to deter groups that compete for the allegiance of Russian citizens or are otherwise critical of the dominant denomination.

The second idea is that the Witnesses developed within the United States and that the harassment is part of an anti-American campaign. Finally, according to yet another theory, the campaign against the Witnesses is an attempt to distract the populace from RussiaÂ’s real economic and political problems, both at home and abroad.

Whatever the reasons behind the drastic action taken and sanctioned by Russian courts, the effects of the decision place Russia in an almost unique position in the international community of modern nations when it comes to constraining religious freedoms.

Russia and the European Court of Human Rights

The Supreme Court decision and other governmental actions taken against the Witnesses are being contested by both public opinion the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR).

The ECtHR is the judicial arm of the Council of Europe which was formed after the Second World War in an effort to deter violations of human and civil rights. Russia is a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, which is the governing document for the Council of Europe, and thus is bound by its provisions.

Article 9 of the Convention guarantees freedom of thought, conscience and religion, which, according to the Witnesses, Russia regularly violates.

Since 1992, when Russia was accepted as the CouncilÂ’s member, the country has lost several major cases before the ECtHR, related to suppressing minority faiths. JehovahÂ’s Witnesses have been very effective advocates of their rights and the rights of others before the ECtHR, having developed a strong winning record, including some victories in cases against Russia.

Currently, the ECtHR considers 32 cases involving JehovahÂ’s Witnesses and Russia. This includes the case of the March 2nd 2016 warning, issued by the Prosecutor GeneralÂ’s office to liquidate the WitnessesÂ’ administrative centre in the country.

The ECtHR is going to consider RussiaÂ’s decision to deem WitnessesÂ’ literature and actions extremist as urgent, under Rule 41 of the Convention. Ten other cases concern raids on Witness congregations, out of which four deal with home searches and literature confiscation, and the other involve prosecution for evangelising and ban on religious literature.

How the ECtHR rules on the many cases against Russia, especially those concerning the church delegalisation, and how the Russian government responds to those rulings, will reveal much about the future of the CourtÂ’s influence. It will also say a lot about the rule of law and religious freedoms in Russia.

James T. Richardson, JD, PhD, is emeritus foundation professor of sociology and judicial studies at the University of Nevada, Reno. His most recent publications include Regulating Religion: Case Studies from around the Globe (Kluwer, 2004), Saints under Siege: The Texas Raid on the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints (with Stuart Wright, New York University Press, 2011), The Sociology of Shari’a: Case Studies from around the World (with Adam Possamai and Bryan Turner, Springer, 2014), and Legal Cases Involving New Religions and Minority Faiths (with Francois Bellanger, Ashgate, 2014). He can be contacted at jtr@unr.edu 

http://neweasterneurope.eu/2017/10/25/battle-jehovahs-witnesses-russia/