The Watchtower, November 1, 1977

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The Watchtower — November 1, 1977

Source: jw.org

Contents

How Can You Have a Bright Outlook?

Are You Prepared to Talk on the Bible?

Reading the Bible with Your Family

Perseverance Brings God’s Blessing in Pakistan

Consulting the Finest Heart Specialist for Our Times

Our Spiritual Health and the Kidneys

Where True Freedom Is Found

Insight on the News

What Did the Wise Man Mean?

Gilead Graduates, Do Not Give Up!

Should Christians Accept Blood?

How Can You Have a Bright Outlook?

TO HAVE a bright outlook for the future, people need a solidly based hope. The only one who can give such a hope is man’s Creator, Jehovah God, and he has done so by means of his Word, the Bible. The Christian apostle Paul wrote: “All the things that were written aforetime were written for our instruction, that through our endurance and through the comfort from the Scriptures we might have hope.”—Rom. 15:4.

Persons who reject the guidance of God’s Word and look to other sources to furnish them with a dependable hope for the future are bound to come to disappointment. This is what the prophecy of Isaiah pointed out to unfaithful Israelites who, contrary to God’s law, were looking to spirit mediums, fortune-tellers and even the dead for insight regarding the future.

Isaiah 8:19-22 implies that these unfaithful Israelites would encourage the faithful ones to do the same, but it then shows just what would be experienced by those who rejected the source of true guidance and hope, Jehovah. We read: “In case they should say to you people: ‘Apply to the spiritistic mediums or to those having a spirit of prediction who are chirping and making utterances in low tones,’ is it not to its God that any people should apply? Should there be application to dead persons in behalf of living persons? To the law and to the attestation! Surely they will keep saying what is according to this statement that will have no light of dawn. And each one will certainly pass through the land hard pressed and hungry; and it must occur that because he is hungry and has made himself feel indignant, he will actually call down evil upon his king and upon his God and will certainly peer upward. And to the earth he will look, and, lo! distress and darkness, obscurity, hard times and gloominess with no brightness.”

For those who encouraged others to consult spirit mediums, fortune-tellers and the dead, there would be “no light of dawn.” Upon experiencing calamity, they would have nothing to brighten their outlook. The calamity that would result in the dismal outlook described in Isaiah’s prophecy was doubtless the foretold Assyrian invasion. Survivors would be “hard pressed,” that is, afflicted. Since a campaign of conquest would be accompanied by the desolation of cultivated fields, orchards and vineyards, the survivors would face hunger. In their hungry state, the faithless Israelites who had escaped death and captivity would be disturbed, “indignant” or angry. They would not consider the calamity as a just retribution for unfaithfulness. Instead, they would curse the king and the Most High, blaming them for their suffering. When such persons would look heavenward, they would see no sign of brightness to stir within them hope for better times ahead. When they looked at things on earth, everything would appear gloomy to them. Having rejected God’s ‘law and attestation,’ they would not be able to see even the slightest indication of a bright prospect for the future.

Similarly, in these days, many persons are frightened by what they see taking place on earth—increasing lawlessness, pollution of air, land and water, and general unrest among peoples and nations. Although affected by these conditions, true Christians do not have a gloomy outlook. Why not? They know from God’s Word that the present world situation is fulfilling prophecy and portends approaching deliverance through God’s kingdom by Jesus Christ. Therefore, they do what Jesus Christ encouraged: “As these things start to occur, raise yourselves erect and lift your heads up, because your deliverance is getting near.” (Luke 21:28) Do you share this confidence because of having accepted the Bible’s message as the “word of God”?—1 Thess. 2:13.

Are You Prepared to Talk on the Bible?

“I BELIEVE the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man,” said Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth president of the United States. Although he never joined a church, Lincoln was a Bible reader from his youth. In fact, during his backwoods school days, the Bible was used for reading lessons. And, reportedly, Lincoln often had an old family Bible in hand during his days as president, in the years 1861-1865.

Abraham Lincoln was just one of many well-known persons who have considered the Bible to be of real value in life. But what about you? Do you really treat the Scriptures as a gift from God? Perhaps you are dedicated to Jehovah God and have the privilege of sharing with others “the glorious good news of the happy God.” (1 Tim. 1:11) If so, can you use the Scriptures effectively? Are you prepared to talk on the Bible?

THE NEED TO SPEAK FROM THE BIBLE

Christians need to know the Bible well in order to fulfill their commission to “make disciples of people of all the nations, . . . teaching them to observe all the things” that Jesus Christ commanded. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Jesus himself was well acquainted with the Scriptures. He used them to beat back the temptations of Satan the Devil. (Matt. 4:1-11) Jesus also read God’s Word to others, as at the synagogue in Nazareth. (Luke 4:16-21) Often, while speaking to the people, he would say, “It is written,” and then would quote the Hebrew Scriptures. (Luke 7:27; 19:46; John 2:17) What a fine example for his followers!

The apostle Paul followed Jesus’ example, using God’s Word in his preaching and teaching work. For instance, at Thessalonica he went to a synagogue of the Jews “and for three sabbaths he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and proving by references that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead.” (Acts 17:1-3) Evidently, first-century Christians in general were able and eager to talk on the Scriptures.

Those early Christians were aware of the need to speak from the Scriptures. That is why they desired to have God’s Word in the most useful form. Interestingly, writing on the subject “The Earliest Christian Books,” C. C. McCown stated: “The simple, practical, nonliterary character of early Christianity is emphasized by what the recent discoveries have proved regarding their use of the codex. The Christians’ religious books, both the Old Testament and the new writings which were in process of becoming sacred, were not for the leisurely reading of the well-to-do. Hardworking business people wanted as much as they could get into a book. They and the earnest Christian missionaries wished to be able to refer to this or that proof text quickly, without having to unroll many feet of papyrus. They were not dominated by any snobbish literary pretensions.” Hence, they put their Scriptures into book form, the same form that we use until this day.—The Biblical Archaeologist Reader, p. 261.

Among those early Christians who were prepared to talk on the Scriptures was Apollos. When he arrived in Achaia, he was able to help others spiritually, “for with intensity he thoroughly proved the Jews to be wrong publicly, while he demonstrated by the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.” (Acts 18:24-28) Certainly, it is satisfying to be able to uphold God and his Word by always being “ready to make a defense before everyone that demands of you a reason for the hope in you.” (1 Pet. 3:15) Yes, it is rewarding to be able to answer sincere inquirers from God’s Word, the Bible. (Col. 4:6) And joy increases as one talks on the Scriptures and observes the spiritual progress a student is making during a personal home Bible study.

HELPING PEOPLE IS OUR OBJECTIVE

Helping people spiritually, not just placing Bible literature with them, is the prime objective of Jehovah’s Witnesses. In many places the homes have been called on often, and the people may not need more literature. Rather, they are in need of Bible discussions that answer their questions, that stimulate them to study the publications with their Bible and that motivate them to do something about worshiping God “with spirit and truth.”—John 4:23, 24.

When you speak from the Bible with sincerity as a Christian witness of Jehovah, this adds a persuasive power to the Kingdom message that the printed page itself does not have, at least as far as many people are concerned. It is important to be sensitive to the needs of others and to be willing to give them spiritual aid based on God’s Word. Even young persons and newer ones can speak from the Bible. They need not be diffident or backward about this, if they regularly read the Scriptures, noting Bible texts to use in speaking God’s truth to others. Daily reading of the Scriptures will enable you to talk on the Bible to persons of every walk of life.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

There is something in the Bible for persons of every background. Hence, as Christians read God’s Word they are able to note information that will help them to talk on the Bible whether they meet scientists, doctors, housewives or others. Consider but a few examples in proof of this.

A scientist, or an individual interested in science, may be quite surprised to learn that, some 2,200 years before men in general accepted the fact that the earth is round, the Hebrew prophet Isaiah wrote: “There is One [God] who is dwelling above the circle of the earth.” (Isa. 40:22) The Hebrew word here rendered “circle” is hhug, which may also be rendered “sphere,” according to Davidson’s Concordance. Moreover, a scientifically inclined person will probably agree with the Bible if he is shown Job 26:7, which says that God is “hanging the earth upon nothing.” After all, scientists know that the earth has no visible means of support.

Suppose a physician is met by a Christian who is witnessing from house to house. Would not the doctor be quite interested in knowing that the Bible recognizes the psychosomatic principle, that is, that there is some connection between an individual’s physical health and his emotional state? Surely he will agree that envy, fear, greed, hatred and the like are injurious to health, whereas good effects are produced through the display of love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness and self-control, the fruitage of God’s spirit. (Gal. 5:22, 23) Attention might be directed also to the proverb that says: “A heart that is joyful does good as a curer, but a spirit that is stricken makes the bones dry.” (Prov. 17:22) Further, a doctor may be interested in learning that one of the Bible writers, Luke, was spoken of in Scripture as “the beloved physician.”—Col. 4:14.

To the housewife there is much to say when you talk on the Bible. Suppose you are returning to visit a woman who has manifested interest in the Scriptures. The conversation may turn to household responsibilities, and she may be quite pleased to learn about “a capable wife,” as described at Proverbs 31:10-31. Such a wife is shown to be concerned about the clothing worn by her family, the providing of wholesome food for her household and the proper management of certain household affairs. She is industrious and capable, generous and a doer of good to individuals outside the family. A modern-day woman may be surprised that the Bible says so much about household matters. And she may also be impressed with the words “charm may be false, and prettiness may be vain; but the woman that fears Jehovah is the one that procures praise for herself.”—Prov. 31:30.

When speaking with children and talking on the Bible, there also is much to say. Perhaps during a Bible discussion with youngsters, you may want to impress upon them the need to avoid arrogance, to do what is good and to be humble. You may know very well that many children’s stories begin with the words, “Once upon a time.” Well, the prophecy of Gideon’s son Jotham began with those very words. “Once upon a time,” said Jotham, “the trees went to anoint a king over them.” But the olive tree, the fig tree and the vine refused a position of rulership, whereas the lowly bramble eagerly accepted it. The valuable plants represented worthy persons who did not seek the position of kingship over their fellow Israelites, while the bramble, useful only for fuel, represented the kingship of Abimelech, an arrogant, murderous man who wanted to dominate others but met an end in fulfillment of Jotham’s prophecy. (Judg. chap. 9) What child would want to grow up and become like a bramble?

‘HANDLING THE WORD ARIGHT’

Indeed, there are interesting—often intriguing—matters presented in God’s Word. In it there is something for everyone. But it takes effort on a Christian’s part to become skillful in using “the sword of the spirit, that is, God’s word.” (Eph. 6:17) With good reason, then, the apostle Paul urged his co-worker Timothy: “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.”—2 Tim. 2:15.

Prayer to Jehovah God for wisdom to talk on the Bible is sure to be rewarded. The disciple James wrote: “If any one of you is lacking in wisdom, let him keep on asking God, for he gives generously to all and without reproaching; and it will be given him.” (Jas. 1:5-8) Naturally, among Christians there should be growing acquaintance with the doctrinal truths found in the Scriptures. Yet, as they read God’s Word regularly, they also find in it many accounts, expressions and wise sayings that will appeal to people in every walk of life. Eagerly share with them the good things that you are learning as a Christian and thereby encourage them to read the Bible too. Be assured that Jehovah will be with you as you talk on the Bible.—Acts 11:19-21.

Reading the Bible with Your Family

CHRISTIANS truly view the Bible as a gift from God. Also, as they fulfill their commission to preach “this good news of the kingdom,” they earnestly desire to talk on the Bible and share its comforting message with others. (Matt. 24:14; Rom. 15:4) But to do this effectively requires regular reading and study of God’s Word.

There was a time when Bible reading was fairly common in many families. As a result, boys and girls grew up knowing the Bible stories and being able to apply some Scriptural principles in their lives. In the fast-moving modern world, however, with television and various distractions, family Bible reading has for the most part become a thing of the past. But what about the Christian home? Surely, great pleasure and benefit will be had as you read the Bible with your family.

SOME OF THE BENEFITS

Suppose a family spends part of an evening each week reading the Bible together; perhaps an hour or so is spent in this pleasant way. As the weeks progress, Bible characters virtually will ‘come alive’ and dramatic events will present themselves to the mind’s eye. Why, the Bible-reading family can witness the events of creation! They can peer into man’s original paradise home. It is possible for them to “walk” with patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Along with the Israelites, they can cross the Red Sea and the river Jordan dry shod. It is possible to ‘be there’ when the shepherd lad David vanquishes the Philistine giant Goliath. Bible readers can witness the construction of Jehovah’s temple in Jerusalem, can “see” its desolation by Babylonian hordes and can also view its reconstruction under Governor Zerubbabel.

With the humble shepherds near Bethlehem, the Bible-reading family can “hear” the angelic announcement of Jesus’ birth. They can “hear” God’s approving words as his Son is baptized in the Jordan River. It is possible for them to “accompany” Jesus and the apostles, to be “present” when Jesus dies, and when he is resurrected. They can travel with the apostle Paul and “see” the establishment of congregations at Corinth and elsewhere, while true Christianity spreads during the first century. And, with the apostle John, they can enjoy the marvelous view of the future, including the thousand-year reign of Christ, as set forth in the book of Revelation.

Also, as family members possibly take turns reading from the Scriptures, their ability to read may be enhanced. But, more importantly, they will be absorbing God’s laws and principles. It will be possible for them to draw closer to Jehovah, which will increase their love for him. As a melody of Asaph puts it: “But as for me, the drawing near to God is good for me. In the Sovereign Lord Jehovah I have placed my refuge, to declare all your works.” (Ps. 73:28) This will help members of the family to be like Moses who “continued steadfast as seeing the One who is invisible.”—Heb. 11:27.

ASSOCIATING NEW POINTS WITH OLD

Doubtless every Christian will acknowledge that there was a time when he knew comparatively little about Jehovah God and his purposes. Today, however, the Christian is able to start with creation and man’s fall into sin, explain the purpose of Christ’s ransom sacrifice, tell of the oncoming destruction of this system of things and explain Biblically how paradise will be restored to this earth and how obedient humankind will be uplifted to perfection. How has this been possible? It has come about largely because, in studying the Bible and Christian publications, the individual has gradually associated new points learned with older ones already understood.

In family Bible reading, then, associating new points with old ones can be a rewarding experience. Of course, this requires that a person ‘pay attention to how he listens.’ (Luke 8:18) During the family Bible reading, never let your senses become dulled so that important points escape your notice. When statements, principles, laws or various abstract ideas are presented, connect these thoughts with what you already know. Fit the information into the pattern of truth that you understand. Compare thoughts and look for new, different or more thorough information that may help you to adjust your thinking, or that may assist you in sharing with others the truth of God’s Word.

When reading about human conduct, endeavor to see which principles were in operation. You can then meditate on this, form a conclusion and make a decision as to what you would do under similar circumstances. How vital that is! For instance, Jacob’s son Joseph consistently refused to engage in sexual immorality with Potiphar’s wife, asking: “How could I commit this great badness and actually sin against God?” (Gen. 39:7-9) Here, in a moving true-life account, the reader finds an underlying principle, one that he can mentally associate with other statements in God’s Word and can remember with profit when temptation to immorality presents itself.

VISUALIZE BIBLE INCIDENTS

As some Bible accounts are being read, family members can try to relive an event. If the material is read with warmth, feeling and enthusiasm, they can form mental pictures of what is taking place. Endeavoring to visualize an incident will help each one to understand and remember what occurred so long ago.

To illustrate: The family may be reading Judges chapter 7. Try to visualize what is taking place. For instance, consider Jg 7 verses 19 to 22. Gideon and the three hundred valiant men with him have just taken their places on the edge of the Midianite camp. It is about 10 p.m., the beginning of the “middle night watch,” and the sentries have just been posted. Darkness prevails over the sleeping camp of the enemy. Gideon and his men are equipped with horns and have large water jars that cover torches in their left hands. Suddenly, the three hundred blow the horns and dash to pieces the large water jars. You “hear” the sound of the horns and the smashing of the jars. The three bands of a hundred each blow the horns, shatter the large jars, take fresh hold on the torches and begin calling out: “Jehovah’s sword and Gideon’s!” You “see” and “hear” it! Then you look at the Midianite camp. Why, while Gideon and his three hundred keep standing in their places, the entire camp gets on the run, breaks into shouting, and flees! The three hundred continue blowing the horns and Jehovah sets the sword of each Midianite against another in the camp. Midian has been put to flight. Jehovah has given the victory!

Again, suppose the family is reading the Bible book of Ruth. You see the Moabitess Ruth accompany her widowed mother-in-law Naomi back to Bethlehem, and you hear Ruth say: “Your people will be my people, and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16) Soon Ruth is seen gleaning industriously behind the harvesters in the field of Boaz. He later compliments her, saying: “Everyone in the gate of my people is aware that you are an excellent woman.” (Ruth 3:11) Boaz marries Ruth and, in keeping with the arrangement for brother-in-law marriage, by Boaz she bears a son “to Naomi,” becoming an ancestress of David and, eventually, of Jesus Christ.—Ruth 4:17-22; Matt. 1:1, 5, 6.

Will not young ones in the family be intrigued by the story of the three faithful Hebrews, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego? Indeed they will. But perhaps as a father reads the account he can make it live, encouraging everyone to visualize what is taking place. There is that mammoth image of gold towering above the plain of Dura! The satraps, prefects, governors, counselors and other officials have been assembled. A signal is given by the sounding of all sorts of musical instruments, and all these men fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. All but three, that is. Respectfully but firmly Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego tell the king that they will not serve his gods and worship the image of gold. Into the superheated furnace these young Hebrews are cast. But, what is this? Nebuchadnezzar sees in the furnace four able-bodied men, one of them “resembling a son of the gods.” (Dan. 3:25) Promptly the three Hebrews are brought out of the fiery furnace, and Nebuchadnezzar blesses their God.

ADDING LIFE AND INTEREST

Bible accounts such as these are absorbing. They are instructive and encouraging. Moreover, during family Bible readings, it is possible to add life and interest in various ways.

For one thing, the Bible should be read articulately, with warmth and feeling and deep enthusiasm. In fact, when reading some portions of the Scriptures, it may be possible for one family member—possibly the father—to read the words of the general account, while others assume the parts of Bible characters. Each character part can be assigned in advance. The father may be reading the general account until he introduces the words of a particular Bible character. Then, the family member assigned to portray that character can read the words ascribed to that individual, with meaningful expression.

In the book of Ruth, for instance, one family member may assume the role of Naomi, another that of Ruth. Still another may play the part of Boaz, and so forth. Young and old alike may find this to be especially enjoyable. And it may help them to remember this touching Bible story.

Interest will be enhanced if, after reading a certain portion, the family reviews that section, poses questions, and answers these. A word or a particular phrase may not be understood, or, a certain statement may require clarification. By using the Watch Tower Publications Index, or whatever indexes are available in a person’s language, it may be possible to find answers to these Bible questions. Also, the book Aid to Bible Understanding can be consulted, family members looking under appropriate headings for discussions of matters of special interest. A dictionary will help youths to understand the meanings of words. In this way, Bible reading is coupled with rewarding research that adds to the family’s fund of Scriptural knowledge.

LASTING BENEFITS

Everyone in the family can derive pleasure and benefit from regular reading of the Bible. When this is done as a family group, God’s laws and principles can become fixed in the minds of old and young alike. And each one can learn something from the true-life experiences recorded in God’s Word. How vital it is, therefore, to think searchingly as the Bible is being read! Whether the information is doctrinal, prophetic, or of some other type, when reading it the mind should be kept active.

After a portion has been read, the head of the household might ask: How does this affect us? Does this information call upon us to make any adjustment in our lives? What relation does this have to other Bible teachings that we have learned? How can we use these points in sharing the “good news” with others?

There is so much to be derived from God’s Word! The account of Gideon and the three hundred teaches courage and reliance upon Jehovah. Ruth’s fine example of industriousness and faithfulness should move any Christian woman to want to be like her, “an excellent woman.” And, when faced with tests of their integrity at school, what Christian youths would not benefit from recalling the firm stand of the three faithful Hebrews? Like them, godly youngsters continue to ascribe salvation to Jehovah and refrain from worshipful acts that would displease their heavenly Father.—Ps. 3:8.

If yours is a Christian family with deep regard for the Word of God, read the Bible regularly. Relive Biblical accounts. Fix in mind the laws and principles of the Scriptures. Take the time to enjoy the pleasure and benefit of reading the Bible with your family.

Perseverance Brings God’s Blessing in Pakistan

PAKISTAN, meaning, literally, “holy land” in the Urdu language, has been a nation for just thirty years. However, historically it is an ancient land. When Abraham was alive there was already an advanced civilization in a place called Moenjodaro in the fertile Indus River valley and at Harappa in the Punjab. A little more than three hundred years before the birth of Christ, Alexander the Great led his army through the area now known as Pakistan. In the early eighth century of our Common Era, the Arab invasion of the southern part of the country, known as the Sind, brought Islam to these regions, and it was on the basis of religion—Islam—that Pakistan came into existence.

Pakistan, located in Asia on the shores of the Arabian Sea west of India, is by no means a small nation. The 192 proclaimers of the good news of God’s kingdom in this land have well over seventy million persons to whom they may witness.

The Kingdom proclamation had been going on in this part of the earth many years before the political inception of Pakistan. From the mountainous regions of the north, throughout the fertile plains of the Punjab and the arid desert of the Sind, a few zealous Witnesses of Jehovah literally “pioneered” as they searched out honest-hearted persons who were desirous of learning about the truths of God’s Word. Every sort of transport was used, overcrowded trains, horses and horse-drawn vehicles, bullock carts and sometimes even a camel.

Like the apostle Paul, these Witnesses learned ‘how to be low on provisions and how to have an abundance.’ (Phil. 4:11, 12) When in the villages they lived with the local people in their little mud houses along with the chickens, cows and goats. While in the cities they found accommodations in pukka (cement or brick) homes of interested persons, or in cheap dingy hotels. Some of the first ones to share in this rewarding work, often accomplished under grueling temperatures along with such diseases as typhoid, dysentery and malaria, were Edwin Skinner, Ron Tippen, Clarence Taylor and Randall Hopley from England. Included among these also was Claude Goodman, who, despite the hardships, refers to the time that he spent in this “pioneer” work as the best years of his life.

To understand why progress was and still is a little slow in respect to acting on the Kingdom news, it has to be appreciated that 97 percent of Pakistan’s population are of the Islamic faith. The Moslem believes that the Koran is the final revelation from God, superseding the Bible, which, they say, is not in its original form. To get a listening ear to a Bible presentation, therefore, it is necessary to suggest to them that, although they are familiar with their Koran, they may never have had the opportunity of hearing what the other “holy writings,” as contained in the Bible, have to say about present world conditions and the future. Many times, out of curiosity and a natural sense of hospitality, people will listen and accept Bible literature.

The increasing economic problems, as evident here as in the rest of the world, cause most persons to agree that we are in the “last days,” but it is something quite new to them when the idea of an earthly paradise is presented. (2 Tim. 3:1; Rev. 21:3, 4) Almost all believe, as do many in Christendom, that the earth is to be destroyed and paradise will be in heaven. However, the fact that people generally like discussing religion makes visiting from house to house very enjoyable. Oftentimes these discussions can last for half an hour or more and a good witness about God’s kingdom can be given, in comfortable surroundings inside the home.

GRAPPLING WITH PROBLEMS

Whereas the bulk of the visiting from house to house is done among Moslems, Bible studies are conducted mostly with those of the nominal Christian community, who make up a sizable part of the non-Moslem 3 percent found in Pakistan. From these, then, have come the majority of those now sharing in proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom. In the cities they are not easy to find initially. But when one family is contacted it usually leads to meeting others. Sometimes the “lost sheep” have to make much effort themselves to learn the truth, as illustrated by the following:

A young Catholic man approached a Witness on the street while she was going from house to house and asked for a book about the Bible. He obtained The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life in the Urdu language and willingly gave his address, which proved to be in the servant’s quarters belonging to a large Muslim home. A Bible study was begun with him on the first visit and arrangements were made to supply him with the first copy of the Bible that he had ever owned. He started attending meetings right away, but just a few months later the lady, on whose property he was living with his wife and small son, forbade the Witnesses to come regularly to the house. Nevertheless, undaunted and even more eager to continue his studies, he came regularly to the local Kingdom Hall for that purpose on his bicycle. He soon began zealously conducting Bible studies with others and preaching publicly from house to house, always looking for opportunities to express his gratitude for what he had learned. Early in 1977 he became a dedicated, baptized member of the congregation and has shared in auxiliary pioneer service.

Another problem in Pakistan is the widespread illiteracy. Considering the population that is over five years of age, about 84 percent cannot read or write and, although the government has been trying to overcome this, it has been handicapped by a population increase of over 3 1/2 percent a year. Failure to read and write, however, has not prevented sheeplike persons from responding to the Kingdom message. (John 10:27) For example:

A few years ago in the town of Quetta, the capital of the province of Baluchistan and which is situated 5,500 feet (1,670 meters) above sea level, a nominal Christian heard the Kingdom message when at the home of one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. The mother of ten children, she dedicated her life to God and was baptized, two of her daughters also accepting the truth soon after. Over the years it has taken much faith and determination for this Witness to keep proclaiming the “good news” to others, this being due not only to her lack of formal education but also because of the lack of mature Christian help. The winters are very cold in Quetta and, if possible, people then move to warmer parts of the country, while in the summer many find relief there from the extreme humidity of Karachi or the scorching heat of the Punjab. For many years this Witness, along with others, has traveled three times a year on round trips of more than 1,000 to 1,400 miles (1,600 to 2,250 kilometers) to attend the annual and semiannual assemblies of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

The beginning of 1977 also found one of her sons serving as a “special pioneer” more than 700 miles (1,120 kilometers) away from his native town, helping another group of brothers centered in a small town in the fertile region of the Punjab.

OPENING UP THE PUNJAB

One group of more than twenty Punjabi-speaking Witnesses come from small towns and villages scattered over a wide area. Since Pakistan is largely an agricultural country, the greater part of the population live in villages where the houses are made of mud and there are no proper roads to reach them. In this area, due to transport problems and a six-day workweek, Jehovah’s Witnesses hold all their meetings at their little Kingdom Hall on the one holiday of the week. It has not been easy for these Witnesses to advance spiritually.

Language presents another problem. Each of the four provinces of Pakistan has its own language, with Urdu being the main, official language of the country. A few years ago the book The Truth That Leads to Eternal Life was translated into Urdu and has been a great help in aiding persons to get a basic knowledge of the Bible. The Watchtower comes out monthly in the Urdu language, but for many years it was difficult to get copies in from India. Now, though, Pakistan prints its own copy of the translation made in India.

The Punjab (meaning “Five Rivers”) is the most productive agricultural area of the country. Wheat, rice, sugarcane and cotton are some of the main crops. This is also the most densely populated province, and the branch office of the Watch Tower Society in Pakistan is located in its capital city, Lahore. Situated just a few miles from the Indian border, Lahore is a very old city known for its ancient monuments, universities and colleges. Among the almost two and a half million inhabitants there are fifty-five proclaimers of the good news of the kingdom of God. Several of these, although well acquainted with the message that Jehovah’s Witnesses preached for many years previously, have only very recently become dedicated, baptized members of the congregation, the worsening world conditions in the 1970’s causing them, in some cases, to think seriously about acting on what they had once learned, as in the following instance:

A lady began studying with Jehovah’s Witnesses about 1955. She liked what she learned and always prepared for the study. Occasionally she attended meetings despite her husband’s efforts to dissuade her. However, although she spoke to others and read the text each day to nominal Christian girls where she worked, it appeared that she was still connected with the church. Her husband fostered this thought. Over the years various Witnesses studied with her but finally discontinued this, just calling from time to time, as she enjoyed reading every new publication of the Society. Surprisingly, one day she asked if she could be baptized as she felt that she had waited long enough to become a Witness. It was then learned that she hadn’t attended church for the past ten years. So the study was resumed and she started attending meetings regularly, becoming a dedicated, baptized Witness in November 1976. Although elderly now, she spends a lot of time witnessing and conducts Bible studies with others.

BELOW THE HIMALAYAS

More than 930 miles (1,490 kilometers) inland to the north and ten miles (16 kilometers) from Rawalpindi lies Islamabad, the newly built capital of Pakistan. A few hours by road from here are pine-clad mountains and valleys and views of the snowcapped Himalayas towering in the distance. Some of the world’s highest mountains are in Pakistan and much of the breathtaking scenery, due to its inaccessibility, is virtually “untouched” by civilization. However, the ten proclaimers of the “good news” centered in Rawalpindi are doing most of their work in the two big cities, two of their number living in Islamabad.

IN KARACHI AND HYDERABAD

Needless to say, in such a vast country and with so few Witnesses, there are difficulties in keeping interest in the Kingdom message alive once it is manifested. However, if persons really want the truth of God’s Word they will try to learn more about it. In the largest city of Pakistan, Karachi—once a modest fishing village on the shores of the Arabian Sea near the mouth of the Indus River—upward of seventy Witnesses have four and a half million persons as their witnessing “territory.” Some of them have also made the opportunity to travel from time to time to the city of Hyderabad, a hundred miles (160 kilometers) away, to sow seeds of truth there. Here is an example of how some of that seed took root:

About four years ago a study was started with a young housewife. Feeling the need to study more regularly and to attend meetings, this young woman took advantage of an opportunity to go to Karachi for a year to take postgraduate training in one of the hospitals there. She progressed quickly. Soon she was spending a lot of time witnessing to fellow students, and in 1974 she symbolized her dedication to God by baptism. Although she and her husband are now the only Witnesses in Hyderabad, she recently wrote and expressed her appreciation for the truth and the encouragement she gets from letters and occasional visits of the brothers from Karachi. She told how daily she gets the chance to witness among young medical students. Particularly after she has delivered her medical lecture on such subjects as blood transfusion or congenital defects, she has an opportunity of explaining what the Bible’s view is on these matters. Many listen with interest, and she is now conducting a number of Bible studies.

With the help of Jehovah’s spirit and under angelic direction, Jehovah’s Witnesses throughout the land of Pakistan are contacting persons who are desirous of knowing the truth about God. The Witnesses there are concerned with persevering, faithfully continuing to make known the “good news” until all such persons are gathered.

Consulting the Finest Heart Specialist for Our Times

“You have examined my heart, you have made inspection.”—Ps. 17:3.

1. Why is it an exhilarating experience to have a specialist pronounce one’s heart to be in excellent condition?

WHAT an exhilarating experience it is for a person to have a heart specialist examine him and say that his heart is in excellent condition! The person is assured that the danger of heart failure is remote, that the prospects of a long life are very bright. This is especially consoling in times like ours when heart trouble is the No. 1 killer among all known diseases.

2. Why is mankind indebted to heart specialists today?

2 Today there are many renowned heart specialists and they are widely consulted. They treat many varieties of heart ailments. They perform surgical operations on the heart. They even insert artificial heart valves. All of this is done with a view to aiding the person with an ailing or defective heart to keep on living for some time to come. We are greatly indebted to these skilled heart specialists for their fine services to mankind.

3. What capacity does the human heart have, and what achievement have heart specialists failed to realize regarding it?

3 The human heart has the capacity or potentiality to pump the lifeblood forever. The medical profession acknowledges this fact. What a prizewinning accomplishment it would be if heart specialists discovered how to make our hearts function up to perfect capacity that we might live in perfect health forever! Great are the knowledge and skill that they have already acquired, yet they have failed to perform such an incomparable feat. In the light of this, we come to appreciate that it is vain for us to depend upon imperfect human heart specialists to realize such an achievement.

4. Whose heart holds the record for activity, and what life expectancy as stated by Moses holds true today?

4 However, with the Designer of the heart it is different. He created it with the ability to keep circulating the life-sustaining blood through our bodies forever. To his credit he has the unmatched record of keeping a human heart doing its vital duty for nine hundred and sixty-nine years. This was in the case of Methuselah the son of Enoch, for he lived that long. He was the eighth in the line of descent from the first man on earth, Adam. Methuselah’s heart holds the record for showing what the human heart can really do. According to the ancient historian Moses, the son of Amram, this long-lived Methuselah died in the year 2370 before our Common Era. Since then human hearts have greatly weakened in their vitality and capability. In the most advanced lands of today the average life expectancy of the male sex is seventy years. So there has been no improvement over what the historian Moses said in his day: “In themselves the days of our years are seventy years; and if because of special mightiness they are eighty years, yet their insistence is on trouble and hurtful things; for it must quickly pass by, and away we fly.”—Ps. 90:10.

5. Why should we heed the prescriptions of the heart’s Designer, and who has a part in determining how long the heart shall pump?

5 Just as an inventor knows all about his contrivance and so can issue instructions on how to handle and maintain it, the Maker of the human heart knows all about its mechanism and what affects it—better than any anatomist or surgeon does. We do well, therefore, to take heed to His prescriptions regarding this vital body muscle. As owners of hearts, we have much to do with the question of whether our hearts shall continue to function forever. There is a possibility of this. There is now an opportunity for this. Since the heart takes the central position in our being, we have such Biblical expressions as “the heart of the sea” and “the heart of the earth.”—Ex. 15:8; Matt. 12:40.

6, 7. (a) Why does a question arise as to the heart’s failure to function? (b) Who is the best one to consult on this, and why?

6 The Creator of man and woman knows what is at the “heart” of the problem today. He made the blood-circulatory system of the first human creature to function forever. He afforded the opportunity for it to do so. Why has it not done so? For us to learn why, we need to consult Him as the finest heart specialist today.

7 In His written Word, the Holy Bible, he made plain just why we die. From start to finish the Bible has much to say about the heart, speaking about it more than eight hundred times. Seeing that he has specialized on the heart to such an extent, we can be sure that he knows his subject. Better than any human medical specialist of today, He can advise us as to just what is needed to bring our hearts to the condition where they will serve us for life eternal. Even the highest dignitary of an ancient nation, King David of Jerusalem, applied to him for needed examinations. That is why David could say to him: “You have examined my heart, you have made inspection.”—Ps. 17:3.

8. What assurance can we have when we come to God for an examination and inspection of our hearts?

8 We can come to this finest of heart specialists with the assurance that he thoroughly understands our case even though we may not be able to describe it accurately in our own words. In substantiation of this, we read in the Holy Bible, at Romans 8:27: “He who searches the hearts knows what the meaning of the spirit is.” Yes, he gets the sense of what we want to express to him verbally when we come to him for examination and inspection. If a person has been leading a clean life according to the Bible, he has nothing to fear. That is why the ancient psalmist could plead for an examination, saying: “Search through me, O God, and know my heart.”—Ps. 139:23.

“THE INCLINATION OF THE HEART OF MAN”

9. What diagnosis was made of the heart in the sixteenth century of man’s existence, and whose hearts kept beating till after the Deluge?

9 Very early in the history of man a diagnosis of the human heart is set out by the finest specialist in this field. In the first book of the Bible, in its Ge sixth chapter, we read of the moral state of affairs in the sixteenth century of man’s existence. The record says: “Consequently Jehovah saw that the badness of man was abundant in the earth and every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only bad all the time. And Jehovah felt regrets that he had made men in the earth, and he felt hurt at his heart.” (Gen. 6:5, 6) Here we have both the heart of man and the heart of God mentioned. Because Jehovah felt so hurt at his heart, he released a global deluge in the year that Methuselah died. He preserved alive only one human household, namely, Noah and his wife and their three sons and three daughters-in-law, eight human souls. In this way eight human hearts kept beating. Right after they emerged from the deluge-proof ark they turned to the worship of their heavenly Preserver. As they joined in offering up sacrifice to Jehovah God, a rainbow formed in the sky and bode good for them. What was Jehovah’s reaction to this?

10, 11. (a) What did Jehovah then say about man’s heart? (b) How long did he indicate human hearts would beat, and where?

10 “And Jehovah began to smell a restful odor, and so Jehovah said in his heart: ‘Never again shall I call down evil upon the ground on man’s account, because the inclination of the heart of man is bad from his youth up; and never again shall I deal every living thing a blow just as I have done.’”—Gen. 8:21.

11 Jehovah then gave the indication that our physical earth is to remain forever. Here human hearts would beat together for all time.

12. At that time, why was mankind’s heart badly inclined from youth up?

12 In that post-deluge year of 2369 B.C.E., why did Jehovah say that “the inclination of [man’s] heart” is bad “from his youth up”? This was due to the fact that the human family had inherited this bad inclination of the heart from the first man on earth, Adam the husband of Eve. Jehovah had given Adam the command: ‘Do my will and live. Disobey my will and die.’ (Gen. 2:15-17) Under a later test of his loving devotion to his Creator, Adam chose to please his wife by inclining his heart to badness, to disobedience toward Jehovah God his Life-Giver.

13. When did Adam’s heart stop, and what did he bequeath to us?

13 Man has never got rid of that bad inclination of the heart. Adam had to suffer the penalty for his willful sin against his Creator. At the age of nine hundred and thirty years, Adam’s heart, which had been created with the capacity to function forever without any trouble, stopped. The pumping of blood through his circulatory system ceased. So Adam died. But before his death Adam had many sons and daughters and these intermarried and raised families. (Gen. 5:1-5) To all his offspring, Adam bequeathed the bad heart inclination. All of us have it today. This explains why the inclination of the heart of mankind is bad from their youth up.—Rom. 5:12.

14. What questions does the expression “every inclination of the thoughts of his heart” raise”

14 Doubtless all of us recall that at Genesis 6:5, which speaks about the fallen condition of mankind, it uses the expression “every inclination of the thoughts of his heart.” From this are we to understand that the Bible teaches that man’s heart thinks or that the human heart is Biblically used as the equivalent of the mind? Do not Proverbs 16:9 and Pr 19:21 bear out that idea? They say: “The heart of earthling man may think out his way, but Jehovah himself does the directing of his steps.” “Many are the plans in the heart of a man, but the counsel of Jehovah is what will stand.” Also, 1 Corinthians 2:9 says: “Neither have there been conceived in the heart of man the things that God has prepared for those who love him.” (See also Isaiah 64:4.) On the surface it seems that the word “heart” is used to mean “mind,” our thinking faculties.

15. What scriptures can be quoted to show that the Bible makes a distinction between “heart” and “mind”?

15 However, the Bible makes a clear distinction between “heart” and “mind.” For example, the apostle Paul quotes from Isaiah 40:13 (Greek Septuagint Version) and says: “For ‘who has come to know the mind of Jehovah, that he may instruct him?’ But we do have the mind of Christ.” (1 Cor. 2:16) Also, Paul says, in Philippians 4:7: “The peace of God that excels all thought [Greek: nous, mind] will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus.” And in Matthew 22:37 Jesus is quoted as saying: “You must love Jehovah your God with your whole heart and with your whole soul and with your whole mind.” To this Mark 12:30 adds the words: “And with your whole strength.” (See also Luke 10:27.) Such a distinction we should apply not just to the Christian Greek Scriptures. To be consistent we should apply it uniformly throughout the whole set of inspired Scriptures, from Genesis onward.

16. What is the heart, physically, and how is it viewed figuratively?

16 The mind is, of course, that faculty of the brain with which we gather information, sort it out, sum it up and reach a conclusion. As for the heart, it is that muscular organ of the body that pumps the blood entering it and keeps the blood circulating through the whole body, including the brain. It is affected not merely by the physical condition of the body but also by sensations and emotions. In view of its propulsive, moving power, it is appropriately viewed as the seat of motivation, whether this be out of love or out of hate, out of fear or selfishness.

17. What illustrations do we have of the motivating power of the heart?

17 Illustrating this motivating function of the heart, Exodus 35:21, 26 says: “Then they came, everyone whose heart impelled him, and they brought, everyone whose spirit incited him, Jehovah’s contribution for the work . . . And all the women whose hearts impelled them with wisdom spun the goat’s hair.” (Also, Exodus 36:2) To Moses, Jehovah said: “From every man whose heart incites him you people are to take up the contribution of mine.” (Ex. 25:2) A fully charged heart moves its possessor to speak: “Out of the abundance of the heart [which cherishes things] the mouth speaks.”—Matt. 12:34.

18. What does the heart have to do with expressions through the mouth, and how do heart and mind cooperate?

18 Though the heart of itself does not think, it can incite thought. This was the import of Jesus’ words to men who were sticklers for ceremonial washing of the hands: “The things proceeding out of the mouth come out of the heart, and those things defile a man. For example, out of the heart come wicked reasonings, murders, adulteries, fornications, thieveries, false testimonies, blasphemies.” (Matt. 15:18, 19) Certainly false testimonies and blasphemies come out of the mouth, and the wicked reasonings of the mind that express themselves through the mouth are stimulated by the bad inclination of the heart. Yes, the heart inclines the thoughts, for it likes them to be inclined in a particular way. It is allowable, therefore, for Genesis 6:5 to speak of the “thoughts of [man’s] heart” as having a bad inclination. Thought has heart cooperation.

19. How does the heart come to represent a sense of appreciation?

19 The heart develops a love, a fondness, an affection toward an object. So it comes to prize a person or thing. From this standpoint the heart represents a sense of appreciation, including an appreciation of things that are involved in a situation.

“WANT OF HEART”

20, 21. What does the expression “want of heart” mean, and what do those marked by it not escape?

20 Thus the Bible speaks of a person’s acquiring heart or betraying a “want of heart.” Such a “want of heart” marks an inexperienced person or a person who does not care about consequences. In either case the person can show a bad motive, but he also reveals a want of appreciation. His ignoring of penalties or consequences will not save him from them. For instance, we read:

21 “Anyone [as a married man] committing adultery with a woman is in want of heart; he that does it is bringing his own soul to ruin.” (Prov. 6:32) Also: “I looked down, that I might peer upon the inexperienced ones. I was interested in discerning among the sons a young man in want of heart, passing along on the street near her corner, and in the way to her house he marches . . . And, look! there was a woman to meet him, with the garment of a prostitute and cunning of heart.” (Prov. 7:6-10) “The rod is for the back of one in want of heart.” (Prov. 10:13) “For want of heart the foolish themselves keep dying.” (Prov. 10:21) “The one pursuing valueless things is in want of heart.” (Prov. 12:11) “Foolishness is a rejoicing to one who is in want of heart, but the man of discernment is one who goes straight ahead.”—Prov. 15:21; also Pr 12:8; note Pr 28:16.

22. To what is “true wisdom” likened, and our accepting her invitation results how for us?

22 In contrast to a “woman of stupidity,” true wisdom is pictured as a clean, moral woman. She invites the person who is in “want of heart” to enter her dwelling and feast with her with real benefit. (Prov. 9:1-9) So what we today want to do is to listen to “true wisdom” and accept her invitation. This will lead to eternal life in God’s favor. Thus we shall be “acquiring heart,” and Proverbs 19:8 assures us: “He that is acquiring heart is loving his own soul. He that is guarding discernment is going to find good.”—Contrast Proverbs 9:13-18.

INCLINING THE HEART

23. What heart inclination have we inherited, and, hence, what prayers in the Psalms should we offer to God?

23 In the face of all these considerations, do we need to consult the finest heart specialist for our times? Yes, indeed! From his written Word, which contains valuable prescriptions, we learn that we have inherited the heart inclination that is toward badness, even since the deluge of Noah’s day. (Gen. 8:21) It is therefore the course of wisdom for us to learn the healthful, life-giving prescriptions of God’s Word and sincerely pray to him as did the psalmist: “Incline my heart to your reminders, and not to [material] profits.” (Ps. 119:36) “O Jehovah, I have called upon you. Do make haste to me. . . . Do not incline my heart to anything bad, so as to carry on notorious deeds in wickedness with men who are practicing what is hurtful, that I may not feed myself on their dainties.”—Ps. 141:1, 4; note Daniel 11:27.

24. (a) How do we carry out the invitation: “My son, do give your heart to me,” so as to take pleasure in God’s ways? (b) When God makes proof of our hearts, how do we want him to find them?

24 The course that our loving Creator wants us to take as his earthly creatures is the wise one. He says: “My son, do give your heart to me, and may those eyes of yours take pleasure in my own ways.” (Prov. 23:26) He wants us to give him the appreciation that he merits, that thus we may take pleasure in him and in his perfect qualities and ways. Then we will be moved to copy his ways and to walk in the ways that his Word recommends for us. This will lead us to heed what is said in Proverbs 2:2: “Pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment.” This is advisable, because Jehovah is the “God, who makes proof of our hearts.” (1 Thess. 2:4) When he does this toward us, we want him to find our love and affections centered on him as the One whom we sincerely worship, and not on false gods. (Josh. 24:23; 1 Ki. 8:57, 58; 11:3, 4, 9) For this to prove true in our case, we must finally be able to say what the psalmist said to Jehovah God: “I have inclined my heart to do your regulations to time indefinite, down to the last.”—Ps. 119:112.

25. Why should we desire spiritual health amid a sick world, and what divine prescription should we follow?

25 Today, when human maladies abound in spite of the progress of medical science and psychotherapy, spiritual maladies are the most serious ailments. These have a bearing, not just on our present life, but also on our prospects for eternal life in a perfect realm of righteousness. Do we desire spiritual well-being now in the midst of a sick world? It is wise to do so, for this gives promise of endless life in happy association with God and his universal organization. Making this our heartfelt desire, then we will conscientiously follow the certified prescription issued by the finest heart specialist for our times: “More than all else that is to be guarded, safeguard your heart, for out of it are the sources of life.”—Prov. 4:23.

[Picture on page 660]

From the heart we thank God for his love and are motivated to serve him

Our Spiritual Health and the Kidneys

1. Why are we glad to have our kidneys functioning well?

GOOD physical health depends quite a bit on the state of our kidneys. The longer we live, the more we come to appreciate that fact. Kidneys can make us well aware of their presence in our bodies by severe pains due to some malfunction from various causes. Then we may find it hard to stand up and walk erect. And yet, for the best health of our bodies, we would not like to lose one of our kidneys. Grave injury to both of them or loss of both of them would spell death for us. How glad we are to have both of them and keep them working well!

2. Why, often, is a checkup of kidneys advisable, and with what health does the Bible associate the kidneys?

2 Often a visit to a medical doctor will mean a careful examination of how our kidneys are doing. Their role in connection with bodily well-being is so important, and, hence, their functioning needs a checkup. This has been the case ever since the healing profession learned of the anatomy of the human body. Long ago a scientifically minded king wrote a number of wise proverbs. Naturally, then, he had something to say about the heart, the liver, the kidneys and the bones. Wisely he said: “A calm heart is the life of the fleshly organism, but jealousy is rottenness to the bones.” (Prov. 14:30) He also speaks of the exultant feeling that a person could experience in the kidneys. (Prov. 23:16) Very anciently the kidneys were associated with our well-being not only physically but also spiritually. The state of a person’s spiritual health is the more important. It deserves safeguarding.

3. In appreciation of the Creator, what wonder of the human body did the psalmist mention in Psalm 139:12-14?

3 The kidneys are notable among the wonders of the human body. They were specially mentioned in a melody composed by King David of Jerusalem. In appreciation of the Creator he went on to say: “Even the darkness itself would not prove too dark for you, but night itself would shine just as the day does; the darkness might just as well be the light. For you yourself produced my kidneys; you kept me screened off in the belly of my mother. I shall laud you because in a fear-inspiring way I am wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, as my soul is very well aware.”—Ps. 139:8, 12-14.

4. To make what point did the psalmist David here mention the kidneys?

4 Well, now, why did King David specially mention the kidneys? It was in order to make his point. He was magnifying the depth of penetration on the part of God’s spirit and visual powers, reaching as far down as into Sheol, the common grave of mankind. God can also peer down deep into the human body, as far down as the kidneys, these being below the heart and the diaphragm and toward the base of the spine. And when God created the embryo and kept it screened off in the belly of David’s mother, he could see down to the location for these deep-seated organs. Nothing blocked his visual powers or the range of his creative spirit. Indicating the deep location of these sensitive organs, the greatly afflicted patriarch Job said: “My kidneys have failed deep within me [or, literally, “within my bosom”].”—Job 19:27, NW; Leeser.

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The Watchtower, November 1, 1977