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Today I'm having one of those desperate days, waiting for the Kingdom. That feeling of anguish, that deep longing for everything bad to come to an end. I feel heartbroken, I feel sad. How I wish I were already in the New World with my brothers, with all of you... picking strawberries, cooking, singing, building, welcoming resurrected friends, praising Jehovah even more. How much longer will we have to wait? I love you guys!

IMO, the principles have always been clear. It's their application that raises doubts. I mean, every Christian understands we don't celebrate Christmas, and no Christian has a problem with covering his mouth when yawning, even if they both originate with false religion, because those are extremes. It's more difficult to understand, and to some degree arbitrary, why some practices that have lost their religious meaning are acceptable while others are not. Wedding rings are ok but toasting is not (well, until now). Piñatas are acceptable but throwing rice to the newlyweds is not. What is the reasoning? I don't know. Some decades ago we were unbearably strict. We were a stick in the mud, looking at everything with suspicion and finding traces of false religion everywhere. The same as a child matures until he becomes a man, our organization is constantly maturing and learning to apply Bible principles better. When I went to pioneer school at 16 my mind exploded with the chapter about Bible principles. I remember chess being avoided by Witnesses because it was a war game. I remember articles quoting Christendom fundamentalists saying rock was Satanic and an article quoting an idiot claiming E.T. was a parody of Jesus. As an organization we have come a long way from then. We recently understood that we cannot tell Jehovah who should be saved and who should. We understood a more logical, loving and Christ-like way of treating those who were removed from the congregation. We understood beards. I'm sure our application of Bible principles will continue to be refined in the future.

I know this to be true. It will be 2 years July 23 since Rick died. I would not want to loose power over the remote control. I am getting stronger. I can now make a joke I know he would like.

A few weeks ago my husband was telling our children that when we toast we are calling upon demons. Not sure how we're going to back track on that one 😆

I don't know why, Sister @LeolaRootStew, I have the feeling that we will always have something of them visible, in the New World. I don't know what. What is certain (but deep down, what do we know?): we will no longer see the wonderful smile of Brother Lett, the twinkling eyes of Brothers Herd and Jackson, the serious look of Brother Splane, we will no longer hear talks from Brother Lösch on the theme of 'time', and all the others, with the characteristics that we have learned to love so much. It will be something else, and never mind if I am mistaken❤️

*** Moderator Reminder *** In the spirit of Governing Body Update #3 from 2022, where we were encouraged to use caution in what we share, it may be wise if we are careful what stories, photos, or experiences related to our brothers’ situations—especially in war zones— since it could be unwise or even dangerous. Instead, we may find it best if we rely on jw.org as the safe and approved way to stay informed. Our desire to support one another is a beautiful thing—but sometimes, the most loving support we can give is quiet, prayerful discretion. *** Moderator Reminder ***

2025 GB Update #4 Transcript

The admonition to refrain from "toasting" goes as far back as my association with Jehovah's people. Here is a 1952 QFR. *** w52 5/15 p. 319 Questions From Readers *** In shunning this custom of toasting, along with many other objectionable customs, we may appear narrow-minded to worldlings. So we are. But never forget for a moment that our Christian narrowness is our salvation, just as the world’s broadness is its destruction.—Matt. 7:13, 14. That was the year my father began studying. He was baptized in 1954. Change is upon us...♥️ Oh my. That emoji is a former religious symbol...😁

I remember when we first received Brother Lett at Bethel in Brazil, about thirty years ago... it was a privilege... at the time the brothers of the Governing Body did not have much visibility due to JW Broadcasting. I remember being impressed with his teaching art. I hope the story of his life comes out before he receives his reward.

Brother Lett and I are approximately the same age, 78. He was our CO some years back. He even gave our Memorial Talk one year when he was here.

I like to reflect on the way the sheep acts… when I meditate on it and its relationship with the shepherd —its total dependence on the shepherd—it helps me to understand my place in relation to Jehovah’s purpose. Then I reflect that before obeying His commandments, we first need to understand that whether we live or die, we depend on Him... And just like the sheep, when it is grazing, walking and eating, it always has its head down (unlike the goat, which always eats from the branches of trees, looking upward), the path of the sheep is calm in its daily routine because its instinct knows that its life depends on the shepherd. So then I understand that I don’t need to see or ask when or how— I just let the days pass, following the Shepherd, obeying His voice. Without worrying, without rushing... That reflection fills me with peace. It really helps me to think about the sheep and the shepherd. Thank you, Jehovah, for the example you’ve given us—so simple that even a child can reflect on it. So take heart, my dear little sheep brothers and sisters—don’t be afraid! Our Shepherd is ahead of us. Don’t stray, just keep going, with your head down, not looking at what’s around you.

"They say peace, but there is no peace"

Amanda, I have 2 daughters that know the Truth. They never got baptized but, were raised in the Truth. They went their own way. It hurts me. There is not a night that I do not put my head on the pillow and shed a tear or two. But, here's the thing. Jehovah will take care of this situation. They are in good hands. Better than ours sis. Jehovah knows their hearts and they might come back as the GT starts to unfold. Pray for them. We can worry ourselves to death. Not healthy. Give them into Jehovah's hands and continue your work. Stay faithful.

Unlike toasting, that isn't found in the Bible, all the occurrences of birthdays in the Bible are negative. I would not expect that.

We all like the GB members we know. But what about the 'other' 143,970 Kings and Priests we don't know personally? They are (or will be) just as important.

Worlds at war. Campaign on September 2025 is very timely.

This clarification was said to be made to promote the unity of our brotherhood. This might seem to be counterintuitive, saying that the more Christian freedom we have, the more united we are. I suppose it's in the sense that this new-found freedom will contribute to less disagreements and arguments in these, what are now grey areas. It just goes to show, once again, that unity doesn't always mean uniformity.

Funny you should express yourself that way....that's exactly how I feel most mornings. I too have this longing to be in the NW. It must be so close my brother when we feel this way. Hang tight......go out in service, read the scriptures or, do research on a topic. I think we are all tired but, Jehovah knows.

That's why at the dentist's, two doctors are trying to open my mouth. 🤣

I was just thinking last week about toasting, how it is viewed in my community and nothing unscriptural came to my mind so I was wondering if there’s going to be an adjustment and voila! The chariot: https://tenor.com/bES1f.gif

Our time here has changed shorter and we have to go on July 5th because recently my husband's dad/ my father in law has been diagnosed with Cancer And so since he is also of course old we have to take care of him. This means 2 more topics until we leave.😭

The Faithful Slave is ever reliable. They’re helping us to keep on the watch, stay in tune with what the scriptures are saying, and to keep calm and trust Jehovah. 🙏🙏

Yep. I am over all of it. I feel like we are living in a B rated end of days movie where everything is just ridiculous and doesn’t seem believable.

I love this update[emoji3590] Not because all of a sudden, we are "allowed" (even if that's how you want to call it..) to toast, but because the very simple reasoning is clear and based on principles. The organization is maturing more and more, and it teaches us to mature with it by really thinking in principles, using our God-given thinking ability. Verstuurd vanaf mijn SM-S911B met Tapatalk

Toasting...

Recently, a circuit overseer said to be cautious in what the (anxiogens) media tells because it is not certain that everything they say is true or will come true. Of course, as Christians we follow events closely, but then we leave everything in Jehovah's hands, being active in what he wants us to do and that is to help people get to know him and trying to start new Bible Studies, trusting that EVERYTHING HE promises will come true without fail. Why? Because he cannot lie. What guarantee do we have? Does the sacrifice of his one and only precious son seem little to you? Even though I do not have children, I think of him all the time, and I believe that at present we do not even realize this grand gesture because of our imperfection. From my experience, I have come to the conclusion that even when I don't know where to go (i.e. what direction to go, what to decide...), I put EVERYTHING in his hands and trust him and let him do it. When I no longer have the strength? I shout 'help!" and he helps me. So let us cling to this Almighty God, our God, Jehovah!

Coming, June 21st.

I didn't see this topic when it first was posted. I have just read the whole thread through, and it has blown my mind!!! It seems that 1 Thessalonians 4:11 has been quoted or alluded to by some people to tell others to 'mind there own business' over actual laws that are being broken. Interestingly the people using the scripture in that way are people who I have been on threads with who very much did not "mind their own business" over a certain situation a few years back where the governing body heavily encouraged us to follow the guidance of the governments in our land to take a certain medical treatment...even though it was not a law, unlike what is being discussed here. Everything about this is confusing to me. I do believe we should mind our own business, and that these brothers and sisters who are in the US illegally should resolve the issue themselves, fully relying on Jehovah knowing that if they are obedient to the law of the land he will give them all that they need to be equal to whatever the consequences are for them. Nobody in the congregation needs to get involved. Its up to them individually. Jehovah will definitely not let them down as they strive to do the right thing.

Maybe the certain aspect part of birthdays, but I don't think this will happen personally. Someone already mentioned that birthdays from the Bible all have a negative connotation. On top of that, it would be a day to "glorify" yourself, or another person, which is not in line with good qualities. Eccl 7:1 focuses on the importance of building a good name/reputation everyday while we live, and not just celebrating the day we were born on. Lastly, I think if anything, mother and fathers day would come before birthdays. But because of similar reasonings (glorying a person, having other days in the year to respect your parents) idk if we would make any changes about those either.

Since you asked and since you mentioned it is just my opinion I will tell you. In the congregations that I have been associated with over the last 70+ years, I have noticed that many more anointed ones partaking are women. As a wild guess, my observations would be 3 to 2 or more (half-again more women). Over the last 2000 years it is hard to say but in general the 'women are a large army' in God's service and there is no reason to believe anointed publishers are different. So, yes, I assume more Kings and Priests in heaven used to be women on earth.

He was at our convention two weeks ago… He delivered the talk seated

That article is way longer than the usual ones!

I think we all can relate. It WILL be worth the wait and once we are in the promised new world with forever in front of us we will look back and this period will seem like the blink of an eye. Hang in there! Read Psalms 139:1-10. Always helps me when I'm feeling lost and down. "O Jehovah, you have searched through me, and you know me.  You know when I sit down and when I rise up. You discern my thoughts from afar.  You observe me when I travel and when I lie down; You are familiar with all my ways. There is not a word on my tongue, But look! O Jehovah, you already know it well. Behind and before me, you surround me; And you lay your hand upon me.  Such knowledge is beyond my comprehension. It is too high for me to reach.  Where can I escape from your spirit, And where can I run away from your face? If I were to ascend to heaven, you would be there, And if I were to make my bed in the Grave, look! you would be there.  If I would fly away with the wings of the dawn To reside by the most remote sea, Even there your hand would lead me And your right hand would take hold of me"

(Takes a deep breath and lets out a long sigh) The other day at work I found myself reminiscing while driving...my minds eye flitting between scenes from my past as I listened to beautiful orchestra music by Mathias Fritsche. Between my ruminations and my stray thoughts...I suddenly realized that I had taken a detour from my route and was driving into a small park nestled by a gently flowing stream. Suddenly needing some fresh air, I pulled into the little parking lot and got out, meandering down a well worn path until I came to the edge of the stream. Watching the water flow along, I leaned over and saw several small fish swimming in the shadow of a large submerged tree branch...their little bodies undulating against the current. After a moment I stepped back and sat down by a worn picnic table...my senses taking in all the sights and sounds of early Wisconsin summer. My mind felt submerged just like those fish...swimming against the undercurrent of my life as it sorted through various memories and experiences until it finally settled on one memory...one voice. I couldn't remember the brothers name...I couldn't remember the name of the talk...but this dear brothers voice rippled up through my brain as the memory came to life and I heard him telling me to get out and enjoy nature...to put down my cell phone and refresh myself in Jehovah's creation. His voice echoed through my heart...mixing with the sounds of birds and a lone owl calling out from somewhere close by...crickets singing and the gentle splashing of water tumbling over moss covered rocks. Gratitude swelled within me...I could feel the bright sunshine pressing down against my skin...and suddenly...I decided to do something I haven't done since I was a very small child...I found a nice spot among the freshly cut grass, laid down, stretched out...and looked up into the afternoon sky. Squinting against the sunlight...I gazed up and allowed my eyes to take in the large banks of soft white clouds moving slowly across the sky...following their progress for several minutes as they crept across the sky and finally blocked out the bright sunlight. I have no idea how it happened...but suddenly I heard another car enter the parking lot...its tires crunching over gravel as it came to a stop maybe 25 feet from where I was laying...and instantly I realized that I had fallen asleep! Getting to my feet...I brushed the grass off my shorts, sheepishly made my way back to my work van, nodding to the couple who had exited their car and were no doubt startled to see me pop up out of the grass...and resumed my route. I am relaying all of that...because after I left...I found out something that startled me...and I wanted to share it with all of you. Maybe you knew this...maybe you didn't...but either way...I hope this encourages you...because after I meditated on this fact...I found a way to relate it to Jehovah...and to how our God...feels about each of us. While I was laying there...staring up into the sky...I kept looking at those clouds...I kept thinking...if only I could do that...just float calmly through the rest of this system of things...just allow everything to pass by, unworried, unbothered...just peacefully float along until Paradise is here...what a wish, huh? Little did I know, my friends...little did I know the truth about those beautiful fluffy clouds. But now I do...and that's what this post is all about. See, I was under the impression that those clouds were airy and light...but little did I know that the average cloud, (I don't remember what kind), can weigh up to a million pounds!! I mean...it made sense once I thought about it...after all, that's where rain comes from....and all that moisture has weight...but when you just look at a cloud...you wouldn't think about that...nor would you automatically think that it's the atmosphere that is holding that cloud up in the sky. And it's the same, my friends...with us. Daily we interact with each other...on this website...at our meetings, our assemblies and conventions, out in service...and just for recreation and association...and often we just see the outer self...we view the friends as floating past us, serene and peaceful...never knowing the tremendous weight this dear brother or sister is carrying around on their shoulders...held up only by the mercy and pure love of our God. True...we know the friends are going through a lot...but when they are smiling...when they are laughing...when they are happy...it's easy to forget that sometimes they are smiling through the pain...they are laughing because otherwise they will burst into tears...and they are happy only because Jehovah's holy spirit is at work in them...even though they want to give up...even though their heart may be bursting with secret pains...even if no other human alive knows the burdens they are struggling under...Jehovah knows...please remember that, my dear brothers and sisters...Jehovah knows…and just like those clouds...one day Jehovah will release all the rain you hold inside...and then you will be free. May each of you continue to stand for Jehovah...because he is standing for you...and soon...there will be no more pain...soon...you will not look at each other and wonder what secret pain lies beneath that smile, that hug, that laughter...because true and unending joy will fill the entire earth...and we will finally be free...free to be what Jehovah intended us to be. I cannot wait until I can meet each and every single one of you there...imagine what that will be like...what it will smell like...what it will feel like...and take a moment, even now...just to stop and appreciate where Jehovah wants you to be. And please take Jehovah at his word when he says: "Throw all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7 Allow those last 5 words to really sink in...because it literally means..."it matters to him". You matter...to Jehovah...to your brothers and sisters...and to me! Agape to each and every one of you...and I hope this provided even a tiny bit of the encouragement it gave me!

Personally, I'm seeing ICE and police all over my city and it's not even LA city. Military helicopters flying around. We're making preparations for my own family in case of deportations. We only can trust in Jehovah right now. Because the situation is ugly in LA COUNTY not just the City of LA. Thank you @Dhanyel for keeping us aware. And BTW, it's new to me.

Ignore if this has been already posted A positive report by a UK Rotary Club after a 2025 tour of the JW HQ

True. I want a wind chime of bearded men toasting...

A couple months ago, I did some research on birthdays. I came up to about 5 references and all stipulated that has PAGAN backgrounds.

Honestly, we can also find it 'useless' to toast when we are among ourselves, I don't know, we may not find any meaning in the gesture, but what is certain is that from now on, we will avoid moments of embarrassment when, surrounded by those who do not share our faith, we were until now obliged to show our reserve and sometimes explain why we did not participate. In any case, a question of conscience to be respected.

It should be soon, now. This is going to be fun

I have had a privilege of meeting brother Lett twice, the first time he visited Zambia in 2004 for the branch extension dedication in December and I was one of the few privileged publishers to be assigned as an attendant from the platform. The second time he came back in 2014 for the release of the NWT Bible and I was privileged to be his interpreter

To start with, we only have some 20,000 partakers who claim to be anointed to chose from (out of 9,000,000 publishers). And a large majority of these are women who would not qualify because of gender. We would not choose the very aged because of health. We do want spiritually experienced brothers so the pool of anointed pioneers, COs and so forth is a relatively small group of possibilities. Also, to mesh seamlessly with the existing GB, they would have to speak English.

*** dx86-25 144,000 *** names may all come to be known by “other sheep”: w20.01 26; w16.01 26; w06 7/15 12; w89 8/15 20 It will be interesting to see who did and who didn't make the list..

Interesting

Our six-year-old handed us a note. His teacher had called my wife and I in for an emergency meeting. We asked our son if he had any idea why, and he said, "She didn't like a drawing I did." We went in the next day. His teacher pulled the drawing below out and said, "I asked him to draw his familv and he drew this. Would you mind explaining?" "Not at all." my wife said.

The 193 nations giving power to UN is an act of Jehovah. Sudden and unexpected. it will be for one hour only and UN will rule the World scene For now we see a nation (Iran) ready to gain power (nuclear) and needs to be stopped. There shall be no helper for Iran Will UN intervene? We have to wait and see

Well, a little sooner than I planned. Amazon always says 'Up To 72 Hours' to publish, but you never know where in that 72 Hours' it will arrive. The Sake Of My Name is now available for Kindle on Amazon. *** Oskar doesn't know how the world changed so fast. One moment he was living a normal life, and the next, he was a prisoner of the Nazi's. His daughter has been taken from him, and his life before the Camp is barely a memory. His only Crime is following his faith, and refusing to fight in a War that has consumed the world. Thousands of years before, a man named Takarut is living a similar situation. He has rejected the teachings, and gods of his youth in Egypt, to follow Israel on their path to freedom; in service to Jehovah God. And yet, at the very entrance to the Promised Land, his new people changed their minds. Both men will have to endure the most unexpected of trials. Neither of them know what will come next, or how long it might last. Both men have only the support of those in the same situation, and the hope that their faith gives them; as they both attempt to endure the greatest challenge of their lives *** For those of you who aren't buying from the US Amazon store, it'll get there in another day or so. The Paperback version will follow. It's already set up, but usually takes a while to upload to all International Amazon Stores. If you're a regular follower, you'll know that I need to wait a few days before I put the text up for free on the blog, or Amazon's webcrawlers will accuse me of plagiarizing myself. (I know, but it's happened before.) Enjoy!

Of course it's our concern. But it's nothing we can act on. Which is the difference. It's very much my concern if my children return. I love them and miss them soo much. But I love Jehovah first, and while I know that they are safe in his hands, depending on their heart condition, it's still a concern. When a child moves from being a minor to a major (...... use your imagination here .... ) especially if they were baptized ... they were not only fleshly family, they were spiritual family too. My heart is only being held together by Jehovah’s golden glue. So, yes it's a concern, and it was a good question thoughtful question. If we only looked out for our own salvation, then preaching may as well stop. Because those lost, whether inactive, removed or just never took the truth, are more precious to us and to Jehovah, because they once knew him.

The Pact for the Future was adopted by consensus during the Summit of the Future in September '24, It's stated purpose is to agree that the member nations will grant authority to a United Nations central command in the event of a severe global threat to humanity. The original UN charter envisioned "working together" (hence United Nations) but the Pact indicates that the nations agree to step aside and let a central command work on the issues that are existential. It remains to be seen how this will happen, what triggers it, and who are the central command, but the Pact sounds like a step toward the fulfillment of Rev 17:17.