Daily text, Thursday, April 13. 2017

[Queen Esther]

You who have followed me will sit on 12 thrones, judging the 12 tribes of Israel.—Matt. 19:28.

http://wol.jw.org/en/wol/dt/r1/lp-e/2017/4/13

Jesus said the above words to help Peter and other disciples to imagine the future. They could thus contemplate their role in the government that would rule over the earth and bring grand blessings to obedient mankind. Jehovah’s earthly servants have always benefited from thinking about the fulfillment of divine promises. Abel knew enough about God’s purposes to envision a better future, exercise faith, and embrace a reliable hope. Abraham’s outstanding acts of faith were possible because he “saw” something about the fulfillment of God’s prophecy concerning the promised “offspring.” (Gen. 3:15) Moses “looked intently toward the payment of the reward,” acting in faith and growing in love for Jehovah. (Heb. 11:26) Our own faith in God and love for him can help us to envision what Jehovah has promised. w15 5/15 3:17, 18

Memorial Bible reading: (Daytime events: Nisan 15) Matthew 27:62-66