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In my opinion, this answer by Pjdriver is spot on. Try to read it not as a correction or a reprimand, but as a sensible reflection on the topic. Also, Carlos's point was very good. Take the total number of partakers: around 20,000; substract those who partake for mental health reasons and who might not even be annointed (I know some cases, but of course we can't know whether they are annointed in spite of having mental issues, this is just a speculative exercise to make a point); substract the number of females; then substract the number of brothers who, perhaps due to health reasons, are not in a position to live in the HQ; then substract those who do not speak English fluently; then substract those who are not elders; then substract those who do not have a lot of experience in positions of responsibility in the organization (travelling overseers, Bethelites, etc.), and then the options are probably really limited. Now rejecting a very qualified brother to choose another one less qualified because of his skin colour would be not only impractical, but a form of partiality. After all, the GB is there to do a job, not to represent my race.

How do you know if they are "unhappy about it " are they openly voicing their opinion or giving sneering looks, I haven't seen that in our congregation, there are either nice comments on how the differen't beards look or how nice the sisters slacks look on those that look nice ( some I feel are wearing too tight fitting slacks, young brothers included ) as far as no ties, only a very few have chose not to wear a tie or jacket when not having a part, 2 elders approached me and commented on how my nice my beard and no tie look was. I am meticulous at keeping my short beard trimmed with little to no fly away hairs sticking out, in fact while sitting behind some brothers with beards I can't help but noticing their fly away hairs sticking out and want to bring my scissors to the meeting and snip them ( of course while they're not looking 😂 ) 🧔🏻‍♂️

"As first lady, Obama served as a role model for women and worked as an advocate for poverty awareness, education, nutrition, physical activity, and healthy eating." There may be a reason it is on her refrigerator that has nothing to do with politics, color or gender.

…. & Security 3 Read 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3. Paul mentions “Jehovah’s day.” As used in this context, this refers to the time period that begins with the attack on “Babylon the Great,” the world empire of false religion, and ends with Armageddon. (Rev. 16:14, 16; 17:5) Just before that “day” begins, the nations will be proclaiming “Peace and security!” (Some translations say: “Peace and safety.”) World leaders sometimes use similar expressions when they talk about stabilizing relationships between nations. However, the announcement of “peace and security” that the Bible describes will be different. Why? When this happens, people may think that world leaders have succeeded in making the world a safer, more secure place. But in reality, “sudden destruction” will follow as the “great tribulation” unfolds.—Matt. 24:21. How many Bible prophecies remain to be fulfilled before God destroys this present system? Very few! One of the last is at 1 Thessalonians 5:3, which states: “While they are talking of peace and security, all at once calamity is upon them.” (The New English Bible) This shows that the end of this system will begin “while they are talking.” Unforeseen by the world, destruction will strike when least expected, when the attention of humans is on their hoped-for peace and security. let’s keep on the watch

We had a visit from the CO not long ago. During the preaching meetings, while listening to the brother, I said to myself that perhaps the best thing was to not talk about it anymore. Why ? The CO, hairless, made a comment about the only two brothers in the congregation who were bearded, an elder and a young one. He pointed out to the youngest that he had the beard of Jesus Christ, the poor brother was embarrassed, and no one really understood what the Overseer meant, and when he saw the elder he exclaimed : “Come , U., allow me to touch it, this beard looks very dense.” The brother felt very uncomfortable. I then thought that the best thing was to no longer talk about it as something new. It would be better not to think about it in the end, unless you find a lovely sister with her slacks and a charming brother with his pretty, well-trimmed beard. You shouldn't look like Rasputin, should you ?

I would be sad if a new GB member was announced to satisfy worldly quotas... Awful.

Pranking a brother on my Ring doorbell that came over to sit in with an elder conducting a study with my older son, I don't know him and he's never met me. 🤣 https://ring.com/share/7f0edc36-abbb-45cf-afa7-5e20f14c32fc

Oh wait, was that yesterday? Dang, I missed it...

I am not surprised by the differences of opionion. But what amazes me is the fact that so many commented. In the less than 5 months we have had the beard adjustment, there have been 56 pages of comment. In the 5 WEEKS of dress change we are up to 43 pages of comment already. So the beards have been out for 4 times longer but have only generated a dozen more pages. And it used to be the most controversial topic we had. Maybe it is because the sisters are impacted more and have something to say, I don't know. But like the beards, clothing style changes will fade away with time. I have quit noticing which brothers wear a beard in less than six months. I imagine that I will quit noticing which of our publishers wear ties or skirts by fall. Then, maybe this thread will fade away...💗

We have a very good looking brother in our congregation that is growing the perfect beard. He was in Bethel for many years and was used for images of many Bible characters, including Jesus. He said it would take several hours to put the beard on and take it off when they used him then, it would be much easier now.

Excerpt from Morning Worship talk by Gary Breaux: Protect Yourself From Misinformation (Dan. 11:27) RPReplay_Final1713978320.mov

There was an older brother giving a talk on zoom last Sunday on our neighbor congregation, my wife was listening in as she usually watches both our meeting and our daughters meeting on zoom, he had a very uncouth, untrimmed beard with neck hair growing on his sagging neck, sad to say, but yes, keep it neat or shave it all off! 👴🏻 ( scissors please )

It is good practice to abandon fleshly distinctions and keep a spiritual perspective on these matters because "a foolish thing of God is wiser than men" 1Cor.1:25. Jehovah doesn't consult with us as to which humans are assigned to be members of the heavenly class, or which of those men from within that group are assigned to serve as part of the Governing Body. We don't know why he has chosen any particular member of either of those groups. When he chose to anoint David as prospective king, he told Samuel to reject obvious choices for that role saying "the way man sees is not the way God sees because man sees what appears to the eyes, but Jehovah sees into the heart" 1Sam.16:7. In the case later of the apostle Paul, he was chosen for a crucial role in Jehovah's organisation and purpose despite the fact that some viewed "his presence in person [as] weak and his speech contemptible". (2Cor 10:10). In fact he even viewed himself as the "foremost case" among sinners.(1Tim.1:16). What we do know however is that "wisdom is proved righteous by its works" Matt.11:19, and, by means of these imperfect men, Jehovah has accomplished amazing things in restoring pure worship, and establishing and maintaining a spritual paradise right in the midst of a world that is ruled by his adversary, Satan the Devil. That is before we mention the global preaching and teaching work carried out by imperfect humans in the face of the mightiest opposition the world can muster. And to what end? "So that people (us included!) may see and know and pay attention and understand that the hand of Jehovah has done this, and the Holy One of Israel has created it." Isaiah 41:20.

My two cents: Anything even remotely divisive in our organization needs to be treated with much thought and prayer right? This is one of them. As mentioned, DEI and all it's effects on society is one of the 'controversies of the nations' we can't help but hear about in the news. Including myself, we cannot help being affected if we are 'tuning' in to the world (perhaps a little too much — an individual conscience issue). I include myself as perhaps having too much time on my hands as a semi-retired brother, limited privileges, not married, no kids ... therefore lots of time to pray and study as well as perhaps too aware of the social trends 'out there' in Satan's system. I'm just now looking at this thread so please forgive if already mentioned, but ... seems likely we'll be able to know—at some point in all eternity of time ahead—the race and ethnic background, geographical origins, etc. of each of the 144,000 individuals who will ultimately be from among the three sons of Noah, and likely they will not neatly represent one third of each son of Noah? Yes? Search me! We can only speculate on what's impossible to answer in this time. Besides, we hope to even just be there at all for now right? Anyways, in our hearts, I'm sure many have pondered the question regarding the 'face' of the FDS/GB. Perhaps it's a test of our trust in Jehovah. At times, things get revealed in our hearts by means of such questioning.

War has always been business, that's why we have so much war. It's good for business/money.

New Marshall Plan? European countries are apparently catching their breath, relieved to know that America is here again. Behind the scenes of the rescue operation shows how cynical this world can be: I help you and I am hailed as the savior but in reality I am helping myself, to your detriment since you will end up pay what you owe me, so the benefit will be double for me. Let the pure Kingdom of Jehovah come, Yes let it come! Then it will be the end of the war in Ukraine, in the Middle East and everywhere else.

Jenny the aid is in military equipment made in US. that means jobs are kept salaries paid US military compounds sell their manufacturing stuff to the Government and get paid

There is a fine line between handsome and hobo. Most know it when they see it...

That's all it needs to be to fulfill 1 Thessalonians . . nothing more than their hope or belief. It should be the top headline throughout the world.

They passed the bill for Ukraine and Israel aide. With the TikTok ban included. I see the TikTok ban getting us straight to Armageddon no pass go do not collect $200. But in all seriousness it’s all very confusing message with this passage of Israel aid. I can imagine the pot is rattling for the US Muslim community.

Maybe Michelle is family member? Lol 😂

I am like an old cell phone, I can sleep all night and my battery is still only 80% in the morning, 50% by noon and dead by 3pm...

Now it takes several hours per day to keep it neat & trimmed ! 😓

Direct link from our JW website Gary Breaux: Protect Yourself From Misinformation (Dan. 11:27) https://www.jw.org/en/library/videos/#en/mediaitems/VODPgmEvtMorningWorship/pub-jwbvod24_19_VIDEO

Ugh this is the kind of thing that makes atheists feel justified in thinking Christians are stupid and gullible, and that Christian generosity is insincere and reward motivated.

Something interesting: (Apparently Ukraine aid is economic boost for USA ) Here is the best-kept secret about U.S. military aid to Ukraine: Most of the money is being spent here in the United States. That’s right: Funds that lawmakers approve to arm Ukraine are not going directly to Ukraine but are being used stateside to build new weapons or to replace weapons sent to Kyiv from U.S. stockpiles. Of the $68 billion in military and related assistance Congress has approved since Russia invaded Ukraine, almost 90 percent is going to Americans, one analysis found.https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2023/11/29/ukraine-military-aid-american-economy-boost/

Record breaking Ocean heat last 3 days.

Agreed. Implementing change take time for all to make the needed change. Some will continue dressing the way they always have. Others have changed immediately. We are a progressive organization to say the least. Will there be adjustments to the new guidelines we have been given? Possibly. These are such small changes of grooming and dress when we think about them. To me the biggest challenge was the use of electronics. I was determined not to use a tablet, to be a "real" Bible guy, "real" books & magazines. The change took time. But as I get older, my brain and body not working the same as they used to, I value the use of tablets, computers or phones. JW broadcasting is like having a CA, SA & RC each month. I think of the brothers and sisters who have left deeply entrenched beliefs behind to accept worship of Jehovah. That to me takes courage. If I have a beard or not, if I wear a suit does not require courage. Standing up for Jehovah, leaving behind traditions and becoming acceptable to Jehovah takes courage and faith. Those who make those changes build my faith, not what they look like on the outside, but who they are today and what it took to get there. That's real change, courage and show outwardly to all faith. My wife and I talk about faith all the time, faithful to each other and Jehovah. Being faithful, not how I am groomed or wear is how we want others to see us.

Jehovah is including everybody and I believe there is full representation of variety when it comes to anointed ones. Think of it ... sisters cannot serve as elders or on GB right now, and yet some of our dear sisters will be powerful immortals there in heaven to whom even angels will not be equal. Those sisters in the future role as "priests and kings" will be teaching all of us and helping "us" to reach perfection. Jehovah is the best equalizer.

I have never seen guidelines for sagging necks.

Well, I wasn't the only one that said that ( some from the hall that were watching it ) and not to his face, if you're an elder and giving a talk especially on a close up on zoom you should be presentable don't you think, would it be "cruel" if the other elders had to councel him? We don't have rules but we do follow guidelines.

As I understand, things are getting worse and most people are sleeping. Unbelievable. Unless, if their hearts are inclined to find Jehovah, they will see what's really happening. Like the pandemic, it became an escape for corruption. Now, they may be making business out of wars.

This was a great exercise! Thanks for this. Really puts it into perspective what it possibly means to qualify as a GB member. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Excellent

The GB has also been faithfully following the lead of the holy spirit to make available Bibles and study publications in all sorts of languages and tongues. Also the Commit Yourself to Jehovah“ drama last convention was an example of what to expect during the GT, and the main characters were all from Africa. If Ukraine or Russia had been used, it would have also fit. The GB has been faithful to Jehovah and Jesus‘ lead to use the organization all around the world. They are not bias, and receive information from Bethels from all around the world, and use it as part of the direction we get. Decisions are made by them, but the needs and feedback come from a variety of sources. Those who are chosen from the GB, have already spent time in New York Bethel, working as helpers already, and have either come from the US or from international countries, or have spent time abroad. The GB has clearly shown not to act partially. We remember Jehovah‘s ways are always perfect, and always righteous and just as the Rock. Deut.32:4

The racial makeup of the governing body bothers me from time to time. Then I remind myself of a few points. From the insight book under Impartiality Not partial toward Israel. Some persons have held that Jehovah dealt partially by using and favoring Israel as his people of ancient times. However, an honest examination of his dealings with Israel will reveal that such a charge is erroneous. Jehovah chose and dealt with Israel, not because of their greatness and numbers, but because of his love and appreciation for the faith and loyalty of his friend Abraham, their forefather. (Jas 2:23) Jehovah had a purpose in the racial makeup of the nation, the genealogy of the Messiah needed to be proven to fulfill prophecy. Jehovah is a god of purpose. If I truly believe the faithful and discreet slave is the governing body, then I must trust that Jehovah has a purpose in continuing to primarily use white men from the US. I look forward to fully understanding Jehovah’s purpose.

The more life changes the more it stays the same. Satan's tactics stay the same because foolish people keep falling for it. I don't anticipate anything different than what history has shown us. That is until we see Jehovah’s spectacular show, now that'll be completely new 😲 🧡 I'm so weary I'm ready for it. You bet I'll "stand back and see the salvation of Jehovah", at that point my personal war will be over and the boss takes over, yup, I'm very ready.

When you hear others say there should be GB representing differing ethnicities and colors etc.... they are mirroring what the world has constantly been saying about worldly organizations and political offices. Because that is how they view people....it’s the; "My people", "your people" mentality. That kind of thinking is understandable in the world.....but it has no place here. When you see someone of your own color in the GB does it makes you feel good? Viewing things from that perspective seems bias in itself. It starts with the premise that we’re divided, and each one (ethnicity) needs representation to be fair. Would their color make them more trustworthy on the GB ? Or will they care more about you than someone of a different color? This “woke” ideology is spreading and it ain’t pretty.

I'm shocked there isn't more diversity in the GB. There aren't any Asians, Islanders, Latinos, Australians, New Zealanders, Welsh, Alaskans, Greek, Jew, Brazilian, Venezuelan, French, Irish, Native American Indian, Indian.... Should I go on? If someone is offended that there isn't a GB member from their ethnic background, then why aren't they offended that all ethnicities aren't represented?

From this week.

All my bills come at the end of the month so this works well for me...

Sure one of the sources for generating extra money is the tax payer, all of us, including you and me. Food and daily life became much more expensive, and will become more expensive. You won't hear about this, but indirect all of us pay for this to keep the weapon industry going on. In no time the petrol price has gone up a lot here. For electric cars the owner does not pay tax now, this is to make it very inviting to buy electric car here. But in the near future the plan is that the owners of electric cars are going to pay road tax too. Here the amount of tax depends to the weigth of the car. New electric cars are easily twice the weight of petrol/diesel cars because of the very heavy battery pack. So they expect that the owners of electric cars pay sooner or later more road tax than the owner of a petrol/diesel car. Also they talk about "sugar tax" here. This is a tax on top of the price we pay for drinks containing sugar. The idea is that people will have a healthier lifestyle since the drink becomes more expensive. Per january the price has gone up from 8 euro cents per liter to 26 Euro cents per liter (about 3 times more). However people got more salary too to spend. So, will they really feel that 18 cents more per liter? If they only buy a few bottles most likely not. But they still pay more... ...at the end what is it what they pay more? "sugar tax"... well,..."tax"... to be specific, and taxes go to the authorities. Come to your own conclusion 😁

Most of the sales benefits from military aids will be going to military personnel. Most probably the payment of this aid will be made after the war by the aids recipients.

When we think about the 144,000 and what they will be doing soon, it reminds us that the GB is a very small part of the 144,000 and they currently have a relatively short assignment from Jehovah. Very soon they will join the rest of the 144,000 and they will all have the same assignment. Any focus on who Jehovah is using as the GB pales when you think about how temporary the assignment is.

The Bible says that "God is not partial," that "people of all sorts" will come to the hearer of prayer. Our work takes place in over 200 lands and in over 1000 languages! And this is only possible because in Jehovah's organization we have sooooo many people of very different backgrounds working together in spite of their differences, thanks to his holy spirit. My whole life I've seen all of our publications intentionally depicting Jehovah's people in all of the beautiful ethnic and cultural variety that he created us with the capacity to have, decades before anyone would even think to call that "woke" or political. Ever since childhood, I have that last illustration from My Book of Bible Stories burned into my brain! So...it's not a worldly or political thing to expect that the Governing Body might reflect all of this, and to feel a little puzzled because it doesn't. A Bible study asked me this a long time ago - if God is not partial, why did all of the GB seem to come only from a European/Anglo background? This was not out of a sense of worldly pride in her own race/culture but rather, feeling anxious and uncomfortable because racism, prejudice, and partiality are horrible parts of Satan's wicked system. See this Awake! article: "Why is Race Such an Issue?" https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/101993602 Having the organization started in and based in the U.S. has given us a LOT of advantages in being able to reach millions of people and spread the message worldwide. I have meditated on this and wondered whether Jehovah, knowing that 1) his people would be hated like Jesus was and face opposition to our work 2) his people would have to be able to work a LOT with governments to do any kind of organized, legally recognized activity has ALSO guided his organization to be able to accomplish our work 1) during the rise of the Anglo-American world power 2) in a country where racism and ideas of white superiority have been so strongly embedded in government, not to mention Christendom. So maybe the composition of the Governing Body, like the location of our headquarters, has allowed our organization to accomplish certain things over the years that might not have been possible otherwise -- not because Jehovah is partial, but because he has the broad view and knows how to realize his purpose.

My understanding was that you like the variety of personalities on the GB and personalities are enhanced by the person's background. So, a variety of ethnicity and cultures would give us a variety of personalities and experience. I agree 100%. I don't think the comments made here, mine included, were directed to you or anyone else. They were generic comments about being careful to not adapt a worldly pride about our own race or ethnicity and feel that our race is not fully or appropriately represented on the GB.

Ethnicity or color has nothing to do with choosing a member of the GB. They either qualify or do not qualify. Skin color should not even be mentioned as a qualification. That’s the world influence to judge everything by color and ethinicy....trying to make everything even Steven. That’s not how it works. It’s the inner person not the outside that counts. Satan in an effort to divide us fills our heads full of distorted views. Many jump right on the bandwagon. This another “woke” influence....all under the guise of fair and equal. Another one of Satan’s crafty machinations, trying to influence our organization. If an ethic group is not represented on the GB, it means no one in that group has qualified. Talk to Jehovah about that. Unless you think the GB is bias against certain ethic groups. It's one or the other. I think it’s the first reason. No one qualified.

I'm not offended. I'm ecstatic that more interracial couples are depicted in our photos and videos, tbh - it was a very long time coming. It's nice to see one's background represented. ❤️ It *would* be nice to see more ethnicities represented amongst the GB and their helpers (I LOVE when I hear a different accent) - again more as a passing thought, since different backgrounds can offer different perspectives even with the same faith, don't they? But also again, I have absolute faith that everything is well in hand.