The Watchtower, August 1, 1999

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The Watchtower — August 1, 1999

Source: jw.org

Contents

The Present Scourge of Inequality

Inequality—Did God Intend It?

Curbing the Scourge of Inequality

Witnesses Go to the Public in France

Bible Interpretation—By Whose Influence?

“Gird Yourselves With Lowliness of Mind”

Show Honor to Others

Peer Pressure—Can It Be to Your Advantage?

Gladly Accepting Jehovah’s Direction

Racism and Religion

Would You Welcome a Visit?

The Present Scourge of Inequality

The Present Scourge of Inequality

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”​—Declaration of Independence, adopted by the United States in 1776.

“All men are born free and equal in rights.”​—Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, adopted by France’s National Assembly in 1789.

“All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”​—Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.

THERE is no doubt about it. Among humans the desire for equality is universal. But sad to say, the very fact that the idea of human equality has had to be repeated so frequently proves that until now equality has eluded mankind.

Can anyone seriously argue that now at the close of the 20th century, things have changed for the better? Do all citizens of the United States and France, or those of any of the 185 members of the United Nations, really enjoy the equal rights with which they were supposedly born?

Although the idea of equality among all men may be “self-evident,” rights to “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” are far from equal for all people. For example, what equality in the right to life can we speak of when a child in Africa must share one doctor with 2,569 other people, whereas a child in Europe does so with only 289? Or what equality in rights to liberty and the pursuit of happiness is there when about one third of the boys and two thirds of the girls in India will grow up illiterate, whereas in places like Japan, Germany, and Great Britain, practically every child is guaranteed an education?

Do people in Central American countries with a per capita income of $1,380 enjoy the same “dignity and rights” in life as do those in France, where the per capita income is $24,990? What equality does the African female newborn with a life expectancy of 56 years enjoy in comparison with the North American female infant with a life expectancy of 79 years?

Inequality has many faces, all of them ugly. Inequality in living standards and in opportunities for health care and education are but some of them. Sometimes political, racial, or religious differences play a decisive role in depriving people of their dignity and liberty. Despite all the talk about equality, we live in a world of inequality. Like a scourge​—“a cause of widespread or great affliction,” as the word is defined—​inequality sweeps across every level of human society. The pain it causes in the form of poverty, sickness, ignorance, unemployment, and discrimination stabs to the very heart.

“All men are created equal.” What a beautiful thought! How tragic that the reality is quite the opposite!

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UN PHOTO 152113/​SHELLEY ROTNER

Inequality—Did God Intend It?

Inequality​—Did God Intend It?

The answer in a single word is no. Let us see why.

GOD intended that all humans have equal opportunities to enjoy life and happiness. Of man’s creation, we read: “God went on to say: ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness, and let them have in subjection the fish of the sea and the flying creatures of the heavens and the domestic animals and all the earth and every moving animal that is moving upon the earth.’” Upon completion of earthly creation, “God saw everything he had made and, look! it was very good.”​—Genesis 1:26, 31.

Can God pronounce today’s sad state of inequality “very good”? Hardly, for “God is love.” (1 John 4:8) It is said of him that he “treats none with partiality” and that “perfect is his activity, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness, with whom there is no injustice; righteous and upright is he.” (Deuteronomy 10:17; 32:4; compare Job 34:19.) And the apostle Peter concluded: “For a certainty I perceive that God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.”​—Acts 10:34, 35.

Since God is loving, impartial, just, upright, and righteous, how could he have created humans with inherent inequality as regards their right to enjoy happiness? To allow discrimination among people and to place them in a system of inequality would be in direct contradiction to his personality. He intended that they all be “born free and equal in dignity and rights.” Yet, today things are obviously not that way. Why not?

The Root of Inequality

That God created humans to be equal does not mean that he intended for all of them to be equal in every respect. They could differ in talents, interests, and personality. They could also differ in station or in degree of authority. For example, man and woman are not equal in all respects, but God created the woman “as a complement” of the man. (Genesis 2:18) Parents and children obviously differ in authority. Despite these differences, however, all​—men, women, and children—​were to enjoy as a God-given right equal opportunities to satisfy the basic requirements for happiness. They were all to enjoy equal dignity and standing before God.

Similarly, God’s spirit sons, created prior to humans, were given different assignments and responsibilities. (Genesis 3:24; 16:7-11; Isaiah 6:6; Jude 9) Nonetheless, within the boundaries of what they had been given, all were able to enjoy the divine provisions for life and happiness to an equal degree. They thus reflected God’s impartiality in a marvelous way.

Sad to say, one spirit creature was not content with God’s impartial arrangement. He wanted more than what God had given him, yearning for a higher, more elevated, position. By nurturing this wrong desire, he set himself up in rivalry to Jehovah, who as Creator rightfully holds a position of overall supremacy. This rebellious spirit son of God later induced humans to demand of God more than what He had given them. (Genesis 3:1-6; compare Isaiah 14:12-14.) Thus, Jehovah’s provision for humans to enjoy life and happiness appeared to have been thrown out of balance. This spirit rebel, identified at Revelation 20:2 as “the Devil and Satan,” became the evil instigator of human inequality.

Will Things Ever Change?

The answer in a single word is yes!

But who can bring about the desired changes? Human leaders, some no doubt in all sincerity, have struggled for centuries to do so. Their success has been limited, leading many people to conclude that it is unrealistic to expect the problem of human inequality ever to be solved. God’s view, however, is recorded at Isaiah 55:10, 11: “Just as the pouring rain descends, and the snow, from the heavens and does not return to that place, unless it actually saturates the earth and makes it produce and sprout, and seed is actually given to the sower and bread to the eater, so my word that goes forth from my mouth will prove to be. It will not return to me without results, but it will certainly do that in which I have delighted, and it will have certain success in that for which I have sent it.”

How comforting to know that Jehovah God has gone on record that he will fulfill his original purpose to provide all humans with equal opportunities for life and happiness! As a God of truth, he has obligated himself to fulfill what he has promised. Happily, he has both the will and the power to do so. How will he accomplish this?

The answer lies in the Kingdom for which Jesus Christ taught all his followers to pray: “Our Father in the heavens, . . . Let your kingdom come. Let your will take place, as in heaven, also upon earth.” (Matthew 6:9, 10) Yes, God’s Kingdom is the means that Jehovah will use to “crush and put an end to all these kingdoms [now in existence], and it itself will stand to times indefinite.”​—Daniel 2:44.

Under the rule of the heavenly Kingdom, a new human society will emerge. In this regard, the apostle John wrote in the last book of the Bible, Revelation: “I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the former heaven and the former earth had passed away.” (Revelation 21:1) Gone will be all the ugly faces of inequality​—poverty, sickness, ignorance, discrimination, and other human miseries.a

For more than a century, Jehovah’s Witnesses have been directing people’s attention to that Kingdom. (Matthew 24:14) By means of the printed page and by personal assistance, they have exerted themselves in helping people to gain a knowledge of God’s purpose as recorded in the Bible. Their worldwide educational work, however, not only has given people the hope of living in equality and happiness in the future but has also paid dividends right now in curbing the scourge of inequality. Let us see how.

[Footnote]

For a fuller discussion about how God’s Kingdom will soon bring equality for all, please see chapters 10 and 11 of the book Knowledge That Leads to Everlasting Life, published by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society of New York, Inc.

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God intended that all humans have equal opportunities for life and happiness

Curbing the Scourge of Inequality

Curbing the Scourge of Inequality

The Creator will soon bring about the equality that humans crave. Until then, we can at least take steps to curb the scourge of inequality that affects us and our families. As Nelson Mandela, former president of South Africa, observed, “it is what we make out of what we have, not what we are given, that separates one person from another.”

HISTORY verifies his words. Many are the men and women who were given little at birth but who, by making use of what they had, achieved successes that set them apart from their possibly more gifted peers. Conversely, other individuals richly blessed with advantages from birth squandered what they had and failed to live up to their full potential.

Make the Most of What You Have!

Jehovah’s Witnesses are keenly interested in helping people gain a knowledge of God’s purposes through a study of the Bible. They realize, however, that to benefit fully from Bible information, people must be literate. For that reason, Jehovah’s Witnesses have taught tens of thousands of people to read and write, including 23,000 persons (as of the mid-1990’s) in one West African country alone. Referring to the outstanding social service that Jehovah’s Witnesses provide, the San Francisco Examiner noted: “You might regard them as model citizens. They pay taxes diligently, tend the sick, battle illiteracy.”

In addition, by means of a progressive course in public speaking, Jehovah’s Witnesses have trained hundreds of thousands of people to become qualified speakers, able to express themselves fluently in public. Among these thousands are some who once had serious speech problems. Take the man from South Africa who writes: “My stuttering was so bad that I had become an introvert, usually relying on others to speak for me. . . . When I joined the Theocratic Ministry School and had to give a Bible reading before a small audience . . . , I stuttered so badly that I was unable to complete the assignment in the allotted time. After the meeting the [counselor] kindly gave me practical advice. He suggested that I practice reading aloud to myself. This I did, spending time day after day, reading aloud from my Bible and the Watchtower magazine.” This man progressed so well that he now gives public discourses to audiences numbering into the hundreds, even thousands.

Enjoying Equality Among Brothers

As regards education, health care, and economic and social standing, circumstances among Jehovah’s Witnesses differ greatly. These differences merely mirror the imperfect worldly conditions in which they live. But in contrast with other religious groups, racial, social, and economic prejudices have been virtually eradicated from their ranks.

They have accomplished this by doing their best in practicing what they have learned from the Bible. They wholeheartedly embrace such Bible principles as: “Not the way man sees is the way God sees, because mere man sees what appears to the eyes; but as for Jehovah, he sees what the heart is.” (1 Samuel 16:7) “God is not partial, but in every nation the man that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34, 35) “Return evil for evil to no one. Provide fine things in the sight of all men. If possible, as far as it depends upon you, be peaceable with all men.”​—Romans 12:17, 18; see also 1 Timothy 6:17-19; James 2:5, 9.

Closely adhering to these Bible principles that promote unity, Jehovah’s Witnesses refuse to tolerate within their ranks any exercise of inequality based upon racial, social, or economic differences. These factors play no part, for example, in deciding who is to be extended privileges of service in the Christian congregation. Positions of responsibility, such as teaching and oversight, are granted solely on the basis of spiritual qualifications.​—1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9.

For individuals who have suffered under the inequalities of a biased world, how refreshing it is to have others treat them as brothers and sisters with equal standing before their Creator! Martina can attest to this. After her father deserted the family, she was raised in a poor, one-parent home. She was often treated like a social outcast, had little self-confidence, and found it hard to get along with others. She developed a couldn’t-care-less attitude. Things changed, however, after she began studying the Bible and became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She says: “I must still fight negative thinking, but now I am better able to cope with the problem. My self-respect has improved, and I speak with greater confidence. The truth has given me a sense of responsibility. Now I know that Jehovah loves me and that life is worth living.”

As an international group of Christians, Jehovah’s Witnesses in over 230 countries enjoy a degree of equality that is truly unique in today’s world. Can any other religious organization make a similar claim and back it up by facts?

Of course, Jehovah’s Witnesses are realistic. They readily admit that being products of an imperfect environment, they can no more blot out human inequality than could any of the others who over the centuries have tried to do so​—and failed. Nevertheless, they rejoice that within their own ranks, they have done much to curb this deadly scourge. And with strong faith in God’s promise, they look forward to a new world of righteousness where inequality will forever be a thing of the past.

Yes, all obedient humans will soon be restored to the equality “in dignity and rights” that their Creator purposed for them to enjoy in the first place. What a beautiful thought! And this time it will be a reality!

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Jehovah’s Witnesses battle illiteracy by teaching tens of thousands of people to read and write

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Bible truth helps eradicate racial, social, and economic prejudices

Witnesses Go to the Public in France

Kingdom Proclaimers Report

Witnesses Go to the Public in France

FROM the early hours of Friday, January 29, 1999, and continuing into the weekend, Jehovah’s Witnesses in France enthusiastically distributed on the streets and later from house to house, 12 million copies of a tract entitled People of France, You Are Being Deceived! Why such a campaign?

At a press conference in Paris that Friday morning, the reason for the campaign was given. A Witness spokesman explained: “What we want to do today is make ourselves known for what we are and silence the defamatory statements spread about us. We are willing to accept criticism, but we will no longer listen to lies and comments that damage our reputation.”

Although Jehovah’s Witnesses are the third largest Christian religion in France, dozens of Witness children have been insulted and harassed in school. Adults have lost their jobs and have been threatened because of their religion. Unbelievably, even the religious contributions they have received have been assessed for a 60-percent tax. How did the campaign deal with this discrimination?

The tract declares: “The 250,000 Jehovah’s Witnesses and their associates living in France PROTEST against the dishonest way in which their Christian religion, which has existed in France since 1900, has been lumped together with dangerous sects since 1995. . . . PROTEST against the constant harassment to which they have been subjected.” The slanderous charges that have been leveled at the Witnesses in France and the devious ways in which detractors have sought to create negative publicity were exposed. The tract concludes by saying: “Today, more than two million Jehovah’s Witnesses and their associates live in Europe. They respect the laws of the States of which they are citizens by upholding the values of the Gospel. People of France, these are the facts. It is our duty to present them as they truly are!”

Quick, Positive Response

Millions of tracts were given out on the first day. In Paris alone, by midday over 7,000 Witnesses had put more than 1.3 million tracts in the hands of people. Seeing so many Witnesses giving out tracts on the streets was certainly a first for the people. The media, including national and local newspapers and television, reacted favorably to the communication drive. The newspaper Le Progrès de Lyon noted: “This initiative . . . brings into the open a misunderstanding about a word. In the last ten years, the word ‘sect’ . . . has taken on a perverse, dangerous, and harmful connotation. . . . Jehovah’s Witnesses are not of a dangerous nature likely to destabilize society.”

Those who know Jehovah’s Witnesses appreciate their peaceful nature and their deep respect for the established social order. Thus, many on the streets expressed their appreciation and support for the tens of thousands of Witnesses who took part in the campaign. Telephone calls, faxes, and letters from people expressing their thanks for the tract were received almost immediately. Above all, sincere ones were given the chance to hear the facts about the Witnesses as opposed to fictitious and senseless remarks, and those whose beliefs had been maligned were able to demonstrate their feelings for what they hold dear.

Bible Interpretation—By Whose Influence?

Bible Interpretation​—By Whose Influence?

ONE definition of the word “interpret” is “to conceive in the light of individual belief, judgment, or circumstance.” (Webster’s Ninth New Collegiate Dictionary) Thus, one’s interpretation of anything is usually influenced by one’s background, education, and upbringing.

What, though, about Bible interpretation? Are we free to explain Bible passages according to our own “belief, judgment, or circumstance”? Naturally, most Bible scholars and translators claim that they do not do so but that they are guided by God.

A case in point is what is said in a footnote to John 1:1 in A New Version of the Four Gospels, published in 1836 by John Lingard under the pseudonym “A Catholic.” It says: “Men of every persuasion find the confirmation of their peculiar opinions in the sacred volumes: for, in fact, it is not the Scripture that informs them, but they that affix their own meaning to the language of Scripture.”

Though the point is well taken, what was the writer’s intent? His comment was in support of his interpretation of that verse, which he translated: “At the beginning was ‘the word;’ and ‘the word’ was with God; and ‘the word’ was God,” a typical Trinitarian rendition.

What impelled the writer to translate John 1:1 in support of the Trinitarian doctrine? Is it “the Scripture that informs” him to do so? That is impossible, for nowhere in the Bible is the teaching of the Trinity to be found. Note what The New Encyclopædia Britannica says on this point: “Neither the word Trinity nor the explicit doctrine appears in the New Testament.” In addition, Yale University professor E. Washburn Hopkins observed: “To Jesus and Paul the doctrine of the trinity was apparently unknown; . . . they say nothing about it.”

What, then, can we conclude about those who support a Trinitarian interpretation of John 1:1 or any other Bible verse? By Mr. Lingard’s own criterion, “it is not the Scripture that informs them, but they that affix their own meaning to the language of Scripture.”

Happily, we have God’s own Word to guide us on this. “You know this first,” said the apostle Peter, “that no prophecy of Scripture springs from any private interpretation. For prophecy was at no time brought by man’s will, but men spoke from God as they were borne along by holy spirit.”​—2 Peter 1:20, 21.

“Gird Yourselves With Lowliness of Mind”

“Gird Yourselves With Lowliness of Mind”

“God opposes the haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the humble ones.”​—1 PETER 5:5.

1, 2. What two opposite mental dispositions have a profound effect on human behavior?

AMONG the mental dispositions that God’s Word brings to our attention are two opposites. Both of them have a profound effect on human behavior. One is described as “lowliness of mind.” (1 Peter 5:5) A dictionary defines “lowly” as being “humble in manner or spirit: free from self-assertive pride.” Lowliness of mind is synonymous with humility, and from God’s viewpoint, it is a very desirable quality.

2 The opposite is pride. This is defined as “inordinate self-esteem,” being “disdainful.” It is self-centered, and it seeks material, egoistic, and other advantages regardless of the adverse effects upon others. The Bible notes one result: “Man has dominated man to his injury.” It speaks of the “rivalry of one toward another” as “striving after the wind” because at death “nothing at all can one carry away.” Such pride is very undesirable from God’s viewpoint.​—Ecclesiastes 4:4; 5:15; 8:9.

The World’s Prevailing Spirit

3. What is the world’s prevailing spirit?

3 Which of the two mental dispositions characterizes the world today? What is the world’s prevailing spirit? World Military and Social Expenditures 1996 notes: “No other century on record equals the 20th in uncivilized . . . violence.” Competition for political and economic power​—as well as national, religious, tribal, and ethnic rivalries—​has killed over 100 million people in this century. Self-centered behavior on an individual level has also increased. The Chicago Tribune stated: “Societal illness includes mindless violence, child abuse, divorce, drunkenness, AIDS, teen-age suicide, drugs, street gangs, rape, illegitimacy, abortion, pornography, . . . lying, cheating, political corruption . . . Right and wrong as moral concepts have been abolished.” Thus, the UN Chronicle warned: “Societies are disintegrating.”

4, 5. How has the world’s spirit been accurately described in Bible prophecy for our day?

4 These conditions are worldwide. It is just as Bible prophecy foretold for our time: “In the last days critical times hard to deal with will be here. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, self-assuming, haughty, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, disloyal, having no natural affection, not open to any agreement, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, without love of goodness, betrayers, headstrong, puffed up with pride.”​—2 Timothy 3:1-4.

5 That is an accurate description of this world’s prevailing spirit. It is a selfish me-first attitude. Rivalry among nations is mirrored by rivalry among individuals. In competitive sports, for example, many athletes desire to be number one regardless of how this hurts others emotionally or even physically. This self-centered spirit is promoted in children and continues in many areas of adult life. It results in “enmities, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, contentions, divisions.”​—Galatians 5:19-21.

6. Who promotes selfishness, and how does Jehovah feel about this frame of mind?

6 The Bible shows that the self-centered spirit of this world reflects that of “the one called Devil and Satan, who is misleading the entire inhabited earth.” Regarding Satan’s influence on the people living in these critical last days, the Bible foretells: “Woe for the earth . . . because the Devil has come down to you, having great anger, knowing he has a short period of time.” (Revelation 12:9-12) So he and his associate demons have intensified their efforts to promote a selfish frame of mind in the human family. And how does Jehovah feel about such an attitude? His Word says: “Everyone that is proud in heart is something detestable to Jehovah.”​—Proverbs 16:5.

Jehovah Is With the Lowly Ones

7. How does Jehovah regard lowly ones, and what does he teach them?

7 On the other hand, Jehovah blesses those who are lowly in mind. In song to Jehovah, King David said: “The humble people you will save; but your eyes are against the haughty ones, that you may bring them low.” (2 Samuel 22:1, 28) Hence, God’s Word counsels: “Seek Jehovah, all you meek ones of the earth . . . Seek righteousness, seek meekness. Probably you may be concealed in the day of Jehovah’s anger.” (Zephaniah 2:3) Those who humbly seek Jehovah are taught by him to cultivate a totally different spirit from that of this world. “He will teach the meek ones his way.” (Psalm 25:9; Isaiah 54:13) That way is the way of love. It is based on doing what is right according to God’s standards. According to the Bible, this principled love “does not brag, does not get puffed up, . . . does not look for its own interests.” (1 Corinthians 13:1-8) It also manifests itself in lowliness of mind.

8, 9. (a) What is the origin of principled love? (b) How important is it to imitate the love and humility that Jesus displayed?

8 Paul and other first-century Christians learned this kind of love from the teachings of Jesus. And Jesus learned it from his Father, Jehovah, of whom the Bible says: “God is love.” (1 John 4:8) Jesus knew that it was God’s will for him to live by the law of love, and he did. (John 6:38) That is why he had compassion for the downtrodden, the poor, the sinners. (Matthew 9:36) He told them: “Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart.”​—Matthew 11:28, 29.

9 Jesus showed his disciples the importance of imitating his love and humility when he told them: “By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love among yourselves.” (John 13:35) They would stand out as separate from this self-centered world. That is why Jesus could say of his followers: “They are no part of the world.” (John 17:14) No, they do not imitate the proud, selfish spirit of Satan’s world. Instead, they imitate the spirit of love and humility that Jesus showed.

10. What is Jehovah doing with lowly ones in our day?

10 God’s Word foretold that in these last days, humble ones would be gathered together in a global society based on love and humility. Thus, in the midst of a world that is becoming more and more prideful, Jehovah’s people display the opposite attitude​—lowliness of mind. Such ones say: “Let us go up to the mountain of Jehovah [his elevated true worship], . . . and he will instruct us about his ways, and we will walk in his paths.” (Isaiah 2:2, 3) Jehovah’s Witnesses make up this global society walking in God’s paths. They include a growing “great crowd, which no man was able to number, out of all nations and tribes and peoples and tongues.” (Revelation 7:9) This great crowd is now made up of millions of people. How is Jehovah training them to be humble?

Learning to Be Lowly in Mind

11, 12. How do God’s servants display lowliness of mind?

11 God’s spirit working through his willing people enables them to learn to conquer the bad spirit of the world and then to demonstrate the fruitage of God’s spirit. This manifests itself in “love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, mildness, self-control.” (Galatians 5:22, 23) To help them develop those qualities, God’s servants are counseled not to become “egotistical, stirring up competition with one another, envying one another.” (Galatians 5:26) Similarly, the apostle Paul said: “I tell everyone there among you not to think more of himself than it is necessary to think; but to think so as to have a sound mind.”​—Romans 12:3.

12 God’s Word tells true Christians to do “nothing out of contentiousness or out of egotism, but with lowliness of mind considering that the others [of God’s servants] are superior to you, keeping an eye, not in personal interest upon just your own matters, but also in personal interest upon those of the others.” (Philippians 2:3, 4) “Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that of the other person.” (1 Corinthians 10:24) Yes, “love builds up” others with unselfish words and acts. (1 Corinthians 8:1) It promotes cooperation, not competition. The me-first spirit has no place among Jehovah’s servants.

13. Why must lowliness of mind be learned, and how does one learn it?

13 However, because of inherited imperfection, we are not born lowly in mind. (Psalm 51:5) This quality must be learned. And this may be difficult for those not taught Jehovah’s ways from childhood but who accept them later in life. They have already formed personalities based on this old world’s attitudes. So they have to learn to “put away the old personality which conforms to [their] former course of conduct” and to “put on the new personality which was created according to God’s will in true righteousness and loyalty.” (Ephesians 4:22, 24) With God’s help sincere ones can do what he asks of them: “Clothe yourselves with the tender affections of compassion, kindness, lowliness of mind, mildness, and long-suffering.”​—Colossians 3:12.

14. How did Jesus speak against wanting to elevate oneself?

14 The disciples of Jesus had to learn that. They were adults when they became his disciples and had a measure of the worldly spirit of rivalry in them. When the mother of two of them sought prominence for her sons, Jesus said: “The rulers of the nations lord it over [the people] and the great men wield authority over them. This is not the way among you; but whoever wants to become great among you must be your minister, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave. Just as the Son of man [Jesus] came, not to be ministered to, but to minister and to give his soul a ransom in exchange for many.” (Matthew 20:20-28) When Jesus told his disciples not to use titles to try to elevate themselves, he added: “All you are brothers.”​—Matthew 23:8.

15. What attitude should those seeking the office of overseer have?

15 A true follower of Jesus is a servant, yes, a slave to fellow Christians. (Galatians 5:13) Especially is this so with those who want to qualify for oversight in the congregation. They should never compete for prominence or power; they are not to ‘lord it over those who are God’s inheritance but are to become examples to them.’ (1 Peter 5:3) Indeed, a self-seeking spirit is an indication that a man is unfit for oversight. Such a person would be injurious to the congregation. True, it is proper to ‘reach out for an office of overseer,’ but this should spring from a desire to serve other Christians. This office is not a position of prominence or power, for those in oversight should be among the most lowly of mind in the congregation.​—1 Timothy 3:1, 6.

16. Why was Diotrephes denounced in God’s Word?

16 The apostle John calls our attention to a person who had the wrong viewpoint, stating: “I wrote something to the congregation, but Diotrephes, who likes to have the first place among them, does not receive anything from us with respect.” This man dealt with others disrespectfully to try to advance his own position. Instead, God’s spirit moved John to incorporate in the Bible a denunciation of Diotrephes because of his me-first attitude.​—3 John 9, 10.

The Right Attitude

17. How did Peter, Paul, and Barnabas display lowliness of mind?

17 There are many Bible examples of the right attitude, of lowliness of mind. When Peter entered the home of Cornelius, that man “fell down at [Peter’s] feet and did obeisance to him.” But instead of accepting adulation, “Peter lifted him up, saying: ‘Rise; I myself am also a man.’” (Acts 10:25, 26) When Paul and Barnabas were in Lystra, Paul healed a man lame from birth. As a result, the crowds said that these apostles were gods. However, Paul and Barnabas “ripped their outer garments and leaped out into the crowd, crying out and saying: ‘Men, why are you doing these things? We also are humans having the same infirmities as you do.’” (Acts 14:8-15) These humble Christians would not accept glory from humans.

18. In his humility, what did a powerful angel tell John?

18 When the apostle John was given “a revelation by Jesus Christ,” it was transmitted by an angel. (Revelation 1:1) Because of the power of an angel, we can understand why John was awed, for one angel destroyed 185,000 Assyrians in one night. (2 Kings 19:35) John relates: “When I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel that had been showing me these things. But he tells me: ‘Be careful! Do not do that! All I am is a fellow slave of you and of your brothers . . . Worship God.’” (Revelation 22:8, 9) What lowliness of mind on the part of this powerful angel!

19, 20. Contrast the haughtiness of conquering Roman generals with Jesus’ lowliness of mind.

19 Jesus was the finest example of one who was lowly in mind. He was God’s only-begotten Son, the future King of God’s heavenly Kingdom. When he presented himself to the people as such, he did not do as the conquering generals of Roman times did. They were given huge parades​—processions—​and rode in chariots decorated with gold and ivory, drawn by white horses, or even by elephants, lions, or tigers. In the processions were musicians singing victory songs, along with carts loaded with booty and huge floats illustrating battle scenes. There were also captive kings, princes, and generals, with their families, often stripped naked to humiliate them. The events reeked of pride, haughtiness.

20 Contrast that with the way Jesus offered himself. He was willing to submit humbly to fulfilling the prophecy about him, which foretold: “Look! Your king himself comes to you. He is righteous, yes, saved; humble, and riding upon an ass.” He humbly rode on a beast of burden, not in a chariot pulled by magnificent parade animals. (Zechariah 9:9; Matthew 21:4, 5) How happy humble people are that Jesus will be Jehovah’s appointed King over the entire earth in the new world, one who is truly lowly in mind, humble, loving, compassionate, merciful!​—Isaiah 9:6, 7; Philippians 2:5-8.

21. What does lowliness of mind not indicate?

21 The fact that Jesus, Peter, Paul, and other men and women of faith in Bible times were lowly in mind dispels the idea that humility is weakness. Instead, it shows strength of character, for these ones were courageous and zealous. With great mental and moral strength, they endured severe trials. (Hebrews, chapter 11) And today, when Jehovah’s servants are lowly in mind, they have similar strength because God backs up lowly ones with his powerful holy spirit. Thus, we are urged: “All of you gird yourselves with lowliness of mind toward one another, because God opposes the haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the humble ones. Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.”​—1 Peter 5:5, 6; 2 Corinthians 4:7.

22. What will be discussed in the following article?

22 There is another positive aspect to lowliness of mind that God’s servants need to practice. It is one that contributes much to building up the spirit of love and cooperation in the congregations. Indeed, it is an essential ingredient of lowliness of mind. This will be discussed in the following article.

In Review

□ Describe this world’s prevailing spirit.

□ How does Jehovah favor those who are lowly in mind?

□ Why must lowliness of mind be learned?

□ What are some Bible examples of individuals who displayed lowliness of mind?

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The angel told John: “Do not do that! All I am is a fellow slave”

Show Honor to Others

Show Honor to Others

“In showing honor to one another take the lead.”​—Romans 12:10.

1, 2. (a) What must we practice to show our lowliness of mind? (b) How does the Bible often use the word “honor,” and who find it easier to show honor?

OUR preceding article emphasized the counsel of God’s Word: “All of you gird yourselves with lowliness of mind toward one another, because God opposes the haughty ones, but he gives undeserved kindness to the humble ones.” (1 Peter 5:5) One way for us to gird ourselves with lowliness of mind is to practice showing honor to others.

2 The word “honor” is often used in the Bible to indicate the respect, esteem, and consideration that we should show to others. We honor others by being kind to them, respecting their dignity, listening to their viewpoint, being ready to fulfill reasonable requests made of us. Those who are lowly in mind usually will not find this difficult. However, those who are proud of heart may find it difficult to show genuine honor and may instead try to gain favors and advantages by insincere flattery.

Jehovah Honors Humans

3, 4. How did Jehovah show honor to Abraham, and why?

3 Jehovah himself sets the example in showing honor. He created humans with free will and does not treat them like mere robots. (1 Peter 2:16) For instance, when he told Abraham that Sodom was to be destroyed because of its gross wickedness, Abraham asked: “Will you really sweep away the righteous with the wicked? Suppose there are fifty righteous men in the midst of the city. Will you, then, sweep them away and not pardon the place for the sake of the fifty?” Jehovah answered that he would spare the city for the sake of 50 righteous ones. Abraham then continued to plead humbly. What if there were only 45? 40? 30? 20? 10? Jehovah assured Abraham that he would not destroy Sodom if just ten righteous men were found.​—Genesis 18:20-33.

4 Jehovah knew that there were not ten righteous men in Sodom, yet he honored Abraham by listening to his view and dealing with him respectfully. Why? Because Abraham “put faith in Jehovah; and he proceeded to count it to him as righteousness.” Abraham was called “Jehovah’s friend.” (Genesis 15:6; James 2:23) Furthermore, Jehovah saw that Abraham honored others. When a dispute regarding territory arose between his herdsmen and those of his nephew Lot, Abraham honored Lot by telling him to choose first the area he wanted. Lot picked what he considered the choicest land, and Abraham moved elsewhere.​—Genesis 13:5-11.

5. How did Jehovah honor Lot?

5 Jehovah similarly honored righteous Lot. Before Sodom was destroyed, he told Lot to flee to a mountainous area. However, Lot said that he did not want to go there; he preferred nearby Zoar, although that city was in the area that was to be destroyed. Jehovah said to Lot: “Here I do show you consideration to this extent also, by my not overthrowing the city of which you have spoken.” Jehovah showed honor to faithful Lot by doing what he asked.​—Genesis 19:15-22; 2 Peter 2:6-9.

6. How did Jehovah honor Moses?

6 When Jehovah sent Moses back to Egypt to lead His people out of slavery and to speak to Pharaoh about letting His people go, Moses responded: “Excuse me, Jehovah, but I am not a fluent speaker.” Jehovah assured Moses: “I myself shall prove to be with your mouth and I will teach you what you ought to say.” But Moses was still hesitant. At that Jehovah reassured Moses and arranged to send his brother, Aaron, with him as spokesman.​—Exodus 4:10-16.

7. Why was Jehovah willing to honor others?

7 In all such instances, Jehovah showed his willingness to honor others, especially those who served him. Although what they asked for may have differed from Jehovah’s original intent, he considered their requests and made allowance for them as long as these did not violate his purpose.

Jesus Honored Others

8. How did Jesus honor a woman who was very ill?

8 Jesus imitated Jehovah in honoring others. Once in a crowd, there was a woman who had suffered a flow of blood for 12 years. Doctors had been unable to cure her. Under the Mosaic Law, she was considered ceremonially unclean and should not have been there. She got behind Jesus, touched his garment, and was healed. Jesus did not stand on the technicalities of the Law, scolding her for what she did. Instead, knowing the circumstances, he honored her, saying: “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be in good health from your grievous sickness.”​—Mark 5:25-34; Leviticus 15:25-27.

9. How did Jesus honor a Gentile?

9 Another time, a Phoenician woman said to Jesus: “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David. My daughter is badly demonized.” Knowing that he had been sent to the nation of Israel and not to Gentiles, Jesus said: “It is not right to take the bread of the children [of Israel] and throw it to little dogs [Gentiles].” The woman answered: “But really the little dogs do eat of the crumbs falling from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said: “O woman, great is your faith; let it happen to you as you wish.” Her daughter was healed. Jesus honored this Gentile because of her faith. Even his use of the expression “little dogs,” instead of referring to wild dogs, softened the matter and showed his compassion.​—Matthew 15:21-28.

10. What powerful lesson did Jesus teach his disciples, and why was it needed?

10 Jesus kept teaching his disciples about the need to be lowly in mind and to honor others, since they still had the me-first problem. Once after they had had an argument, Jesus asked: “What were you arguing over?” They kept silent, for “they had argued among themselves who is greater.” (Mark 9:33, 34) Even the night before Jesus died, “there also arose a heated dispute among them over which one of them seemed to be greatest.” (Luke 22:24) So during the Passover meal, Jesus “put water into a basin and started to wash the feet of the disciples.” What a powerful lesson! Jesus was the Son of God, next only to Jehovah in all the universe. Yet, he taught his disciples an honorable lesson by washing their feet. He said: “I set the pattern for you, that, just as I did to you, you should do also.”​—John 13:5-15.

Paul Showed Honor

11, 12. After Paul became a Christian, what did he learn, and how did he apply this lesson in connection with Philemon?

11 As an imitator of Christ, the apostle Paul showed honor to others. (1 Corinthians 11:1) He said: “Neither have we been seeking glory from men . . . To the contrary, we became gentle in the midst of you, as when a nursing mother cherishes her own children.” (1 Thessalonians 2:6, 7) A nursing mother cares for her little ones. After Paul became a Christian, he learned to be lowly in mind and showed honor to his fellow Christians by treating them gently. In doing so, he also respected their free will, as was demonstrated by an event that took place when he was a prisoner in Rome.

12 A runaway slave named Onesimus listened to Paul’s teaching. He became a Christian as well as Paul’s friend. The slave’s owner was Philemon, also a Christian, who lived in Asia Minor. In a letter to Philemon, Paul wrote how useful Onesimus was to him, saying: “I would like to hold him back for myself.” Yet, Paul returned Onesimus to Philemon, for he wrote: “Without your consent I do not want to do anything, so that your good act may be, not as under compulsion, but of your own free will.” Paul did not take advantage of the fact that he was an apostle, but he honored Philemon by not asking to keep Onesimus in Rome. Moreover, Paul exhorted Philemon to honor Onesimus, treating him “as more than a slave, as a brother beloved.”​—Philemon 13-16.

Showing Honor in Our Day

13. What does Romans 12:10 tell us to do?

13 God’s Word counsels: “In showing honor to one another take the lead.” (Romans 12:10) This means that we should not wait for others to show honor to us first, but we should take the initiative. “Let each one keep seeking, not his own advantage, but that of the other person.” (1 Corinthians 10:24; 1 Peter 3:8, 9) Thus, Jehovah’s servants look for opportunities to show honor to those in the family circle, to fellow Christians in the congregation, and even to those outside the congregation.

14. How is honor shown between husband and wife?

14 The Bible states: “The head of every man is the Christ; in turn the head of a woman is the man.” (1 Corinthians 11:3) Jehovah obligates the man to treat his wife as Christ did the congregation. At 1 Peter 3:7, the husband is directed to assign his wife “honor as to a weaker vessel, the feminine one.” He can do this by displaying a genuine willingness to listen and by taking his wife’s suggestions into consideration. (Genesis 21:12) He may give her first choice when no issue is at stake, and he does things for her and treats her kindly. In turn, “the wife should have deep respect for her husband.” (Ephesians 5:33) She listens to him, does not always strive to get her way, does not belittle or nag him. She shows lowliness of mind by not trying to dominate her husband, even when she has superior abilities in certain areas.

15. What consideration is shown to older ones, and how should they respond?

15 Within the Christian congregation, there are those who are particularly worthy of honor, such as older ones. “Before gray hair you should rise up, and you must show consideration for the person of an old man [or, woman].” (Leviticus 19:32) This is especially the case with those who have served Jehovah faithfully for many years because “gray-headedness is a crown of beauty when it is found in the way of righteousness.” (Proverbs 16:31) Overseers should set the example by showing due regard for fellow Christians who are older than they are. Of course, aged ones too need to display a respectful attitude toward younger ones, especially those who share the responsibility of shepherding the flock.​—1 Peter 5:2, 3.

16. How do parents and children honor one another?

16 Young ones should honor their parents: “Children, be obedient to your parents in union with the Lord, for this is righteous: ‘Honor your father and your mother’; which is the first command with a promise: ‘That it may go well with you and you may endure a long time on the earth.’” In turn, parents honor their young ones, for they are told ‘not to be irritating their children but to go on bringing them up in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah.’​—Ephesians 6:1-4; Exodus 20:12.

17. Who are worthy of being accorded “double honor”?

17 Also to be shown honor are those who work hard at serving the congregation: “Let the older men who preside in a fine way be reckoned worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard in speaking and teaching.” (1 Timothy 5:17) One way we can show them this honor is by doing what Hebrews 13:17 states: “Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you and be submissive.”

18. What are we to do toward those outside the congregation?

18 Do we have to show honor to those outside the congregation? Yes. For example, we are instructed: “Let every soul be in subjection to the superior authorities.” (Romans 13:1) These are the secular rulers that Jehovah allows to exercise authority until his Kingdom replaces them. (Daniel 2:44) So we “render to all their dues, to him who calls for the tax, the tax; to him who calls for the tribute, the tribute; to him who calls for fear, such fear; to him who calls for honor, such honor.” (Romans 13:7) We are to “honor men [or, women] of all sorts.”​—1 Peter 2:17.

19. How can we “work what is good” toward others and show them honor?

19 While it is true that we are to honor even those outside the congregation, note what God’s Word emphasizes: “As long as we have time favorable for it, let us work what is good toward all, but especially toward those related to us in the faith.” (Galatians 6:10) Of course, the best way that we can “work what is good” toward others is to cultivate and satisfy their spiritual needs. (Matthew 5:3) This we can do by heeding the apostle Paul’s reminder: “Do your utmost to present yourself approved to God, a workman with nothing to be ashamed of, handling the word of the truth aright.” When we tactfully utilize every opportunity to give a witness, ‘fully accomplishing our ministry,’ we are not only doing good toward all but also showing honor to them.​—2 Timothy 2:15; 4:5.

Honoring Jehovah

20. What happened to Pharaoh and his armies, and why?

20 Jehovah honors his creatures. It is reasonable then that we should, in turn, honor him. (Proverbs 3:9; Revelation 4:11) Jehovah’s Word also states: “Those honoring me I shall honor, and those despising me will be of little account.” (1 Samuel 2:30) When Pharaoh of Egypt was told to let God’s people go, he arrogantly answered: “Who is Jehovah, so that I should obey his voice?” (Exodus 5:2) When Pharaoh sent his armies to crush the Israelites, Jehovah parted the waters of the Red Sea for Israel. But when the Egyptians followed, Jehovah caused the waters to return. “Pharaoh’s chariots and his military forces [Jehovah] has cast into the sea.” (Exodus 14:26-28; 15:4) So Pharaoh’s proud refusal to honor Jehovah led to his disastrous end.​—Psalm 136:15.

21. Why was Jehovah against Belshazzar, and what resulted?

21 King Belshazzar of Babylon refused to honor Jehovah. During a drunken feast, he mocked Jehovah by drinking wine out of the sacred vessels of gold and silver taken from Jerusalem’s temple. And while he was doing this, he praised his pagan gods. But Jehovah’s servant Daniel told him: “You have not humbled your heart . . . But against the Lord of the heavens you exalted yourself.” That very night Belshazzar was killed, and his kingdom was taken away from him.​—Daniel 5:22-31.

22. (a) Why did Jehovah’s wrath come upon the leaders of Israel and their people? (b) Whom did Jehovah favor, and with what result?

22 In the first century C.E., King Herod was giving an address to the public, and they shouted: “A god’s voice, and not a man’s!” The vain king did not disagree but wanted the glory. At that, “the angel of Jehovah struck him, because he did not give the glory to God.” (Acts 12:21-23) Herod honored himself, not Jehovah, and was struck dead. The religious leaders of that time had dishonored God by conspiring to kill his Son, Jesus. Some rulers knew that Jesus taught the truth but would not follow him, “for they loved the glory of men more than even the glory of God.” (John 11:47-53; 12:42, 43) The nation as a whole did not honor Jehovah or his appointed Representative, Jesus. As a result, Jehovah did not continue to honor them, abandoning them and their temple to destruction. But he preserved alive those who honored him and his Son.​—Matthew 23:38; Luke 21:20-22.

23. What must we do to live in God’s new world? (Psalm 37:9-11; Matthew 5:5)

23 All those who want to live in God’s new world after this present system is destroyed must honor God and his Son, Christ Jesus, and obey them. (John 5:22, 23; Philippians 2:9-11) Those who do not show such honor “will be cut off from the very earth.” On the other hand, the upright ones who do honor and obey God and Christ “are the ones that will reside in the earth.”​—Proverbs 2:21, 22.

In Review

□ What does it mean to honor others, and how did Jehovah do this?

□ How did Jesus and Paul honor others?

□ Who are deserving of honor in our day?

□ Why must we honor Jehovah and Jesus?

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Jehovah honored Abraham by considering his pleading

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In successful marriages, husband and wife honor each other

Peer Pressure—Can It Be to Your Advantage?

Peer Pressure​—Can It Be to Your Advantage?

All of us are born with the basic desire to be accepted by our peers. Nobody wants to be disliked, rejected. Thus, to varying degrees, our peers influence us.

A PEER is defined as “one that is of equal standing with another; . . . one belonging to the same societal group, esp[ecially] based on age, grade, or status.” Peer pressure, in turn, is the force exerted on us by our peers, so that, consciously or unconsciously, we conform to their way of thinking or acting. Peer pressure is usually seen in a negative light. Yet, as we shall see, we can turn it to our advantage.

Influence on All Age Groups

Peer pressure is not limited to the young; it affects all age groups. Its influence is manifest when we find ourselves asking such questions as: “Others are doing it, why can’t I?” “Why do I always have to be different?” “What will others think or say?” “All my friends are dating and getting married, but I’m not. Is something wrong with me?”

While the pressure to conform affects all age groups, it tends to be more intense during adolescence. The World Book Encyclopedia says that “most adolescents become deeply involved with their peer group​—that is, their circle of friends and acquaintances. These teen-agers look to their peer group, rather than to their parents, for approval, and they may change their behavior to win that approval.” Teenagers, it adds, “assume they are developing normally if their peers accept and like them.” To that end they “become absorbed in matters they think affect their popularity, such as their style of dress, leadership ability, and success in dating.”

Married couples may find that their decisions about what kind of home to buy or rent, what kind of car to drive, whether to have children or not, and many other matters are influenced by peer pressure​—what is acceptable in their community, among their associates or ethnic group. Some families even go deep in debt just to keep up materially with neighbors and peers. Yes, our goals, our thinking, and our decisions often betray the subtle power of peer pressure. In view of its power, can we deal with peer pressure in an advantageous way, to help us along in the direction we want to go? Indeed, we can!

Tapping Into Wholesome Peer Influence

Doctors and other health professionals know the value of surrounding their patients with positive people and other healthful influences. Such an environment can be a stimulus to recovery. People who have lost a limb, for example, are often helped through the long process of physical rehabilitation and emotional recovery by the good example and encouragement of others who have suffered similarly. Clearly, immersing oneself in a wholesome environment that includes optimistic, positive role models is a way of tapping into the right kind of peer pressure.

This principle also holds true in the Christian congregation, for positive peer influence is one of the reasons Jehovah has directed his people to gather together regularly. God urges us to ‘incite one another to love and fine works and to encourage one another.’ (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Such encouragement is invaluable because of the many negative and hurtful pressures in today’s world. As a result of these pressures, Christians have to ‘exert themselves vigorously’ to stay spiritually strong. (Luke 13:24) Thus, we need and appreciate the loving support from fellow believers. In addition, some may have to endure ‘thorns in the flesh,’ perhaps illness or disability. (2 Corinthians 12:7) Others may be struggling to overcome bad habits or depression, or they may find it difficult to keep up with the demands of life. We are wise, therefore, to surround ourselves with people who stay close to Jehovah God and who enjoy serving him. Such peers will buoy us up and help us ‘endure faithfully to the end.’​—Matthew 24:13.

By choosing the right peers, then, we can control the influence they exert on us. Additionally, the fine spiritual food and practical guidance dispensed at Christian meetings reinforce the personal encouragement we receive from our peers.

Of course, getting to Christian meetings is not always easy. Some may get little or no support from marriage mates, others may have children to get ready, and transportation may be a problem for still others. But think: If you do not allow these obstacles to stop you, then your example may inspire others who may be contending with similar circumstances. In other words, you and others like you provide not just a fine example but also a wholesome form of peer influence​—and that without any hint of coercion.

In fact, the apostle Paul, who himself had to contend with many hardships and obstacles, encouraged Christians to imitate his fine example and that of other mature Christians. He said: “Unitedly become imitators of me, brothers, and keep your eye on those who are walking in a way that accords with the example you have in us.” (Philippians 3:17; 4:9) The early Christians in Thessalonica looked to Paul’s fine example. Of them Paul wrote: “You became imitators of us and of the Lord, seeing that you accepted the word under much tribulation with joy of holy spirit, so that you came to be an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.” (1 Thessalonians 1:6, 7) Our positive attitude and example can have a similar effect on those with whom we associate.

Avoid Negative Influences

If we want to avoid unwholesome peer pressure, we must resist the influence of ‘those who walk in accord with the flesh.’ (Romans 8:4, 5; 1 John 2:15-17) Otherwise, hurtful peer pressure will steer us away from Jehovah and his wise counsel. Proverbs 13:20 says: “He that is walking with wise persons will become wise, but he that is having dealings with the stupid ones will fare badly.” Can you think of someone who fared badly because of unwholesome peer pressure? Some Christians, for example, have been led into materialism, immorality, or drug and alcohol abuse because of the influence of their peers.

Even within the Christian congregation, we can come under the influence of unwholesome peer pressure if we choose spiritually weak individuals as our close associates. (1 Corinthians 15:33; 2 Thessalonians 3:14) Such ones often are not inclined to discuss spiritual matters; they may even ridicule those who enjoy such discussions. If we choose these ones as our close associates, peer pressure may force us into a similar mold, and soon we might find our thinking and attitude reflecting theirs. We may even begin to think negatively of those who are genuine in their faith and who are trying to make spiritual advancement.​—1 Timothy 4:15.

How much wiser it is to cultivate friendships with those who strive to please Jehovah, who delight in spiritual matters! Such associates will help us reflect “the wisdom from above.” It “is first of all chaste, then peaceable, reasonable, ready to obey, full of mercy and good fruits, . . . not hypocritical.” (James 3:17) This does not mean that spiritually-minded people are incapable of talking about anything other than spiritual matters. On the contrary! Just think of the variety of interesting subjects that are considered in Watch Tower publications like the Awake! magazine. Wholesome topics for discussion are truly endless, and by taking an interest in a broad range of subjects, we reflect a love of life and of Jehovah’s handiwork.

Just as a good tennis player improves his game by playing with other good players, the right associates elevate us mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. On the other hand, the wrong associates can lead us into a course of hypocrisy by encouraging us to lead a double life. How much better it is to enjoy a clean conscience along with self-respect!

Some Who Benefited

Most people find that learning the Bible’s doctrines and its moral and spiritual requirements is not too difficult. What can be difficult, however, is putting these things into practice. As the following examples show, wholesome peer influence can help us serve Jehovah whole-souled.

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