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The Passing of Merete Lösch
steeringwheel and 22 others reacted to Araujo JW for a topic
Last week, during morning worship at Bethel in the USA, the announcement was made. 😢I don't have any more details at the moment.23 points -
Burnt out, out of gas, fatigued, exhausted, spent, drained, worn out, enervated, run down, bushed, stressed out to the nines...pick your poison...but every single one of those feelings have attached themselves to me like leeches recently. Pulled in different directions, worried about saying too much...scared I'm not saying enough. Avoiding certain obligations due to stress and my ADHD while digging deep into my personal distractions of chess and personal research. Working more hours due to weather conditions in the winter, not spending enough quality time with my wife. The ability to give good advice to others while simultaneously somehow conveniently forgetting to apply it to myself. Attending more meetings on Zoom then in person, feeling disassociated through absence, experiencing lack of love and empathy due to exhaustion, frustration, anger, hurt, and pain. All of this is what I expressed to an elder yesterday as we sat in two chairs on the back room of his empty Kingdom Hall, our ears perked up occasionally by the sounds of the howling wind and driving snow outside...and this is what he said in return: SIX BILLION TONS!! That's how much just one teaspoonful of a single star weighs...and that's how stupid, (my word, not his), Tim really is. All this time, I've been reaching for stars...trying to stretch out on my tippiest of tippy toes in order to grab just one and SHOW Jehovah that I am a capable man...a good man...a man he could love and respect. I was trying so hard, for so long...but to Jehovah...I must have seemed as pathetic as a tiny ant reaching out to carry the whole muffin back to it's colony...when all it was ASKED to do was carry a crumb. As this very kind elder pointed out to me yesterday...Jehovah never asked me to carry the whole muffin...he never required me to grab a star and carry it around...he only asked me to take his hand...hold on tight...and allow HIS light to penetrate deep into my mind and heart. He didn't ask ME to be the "source"...and he never told me to "reach" for it...like I had to carry around the source myself...he simply asked me to reflect HIS light. Those are MY expectations...those are my OWN personal thoughts and feelings about what I felt I should be doing...not Jehovah's. After a few minutes of listening to more of my excuses and self lies...he quietly, gently...led me to a set of scriptures I know very very well...or at least...I THOUGHT I did. Matthew 11:28,29: "Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for yourselves." Refresh: In Greek, the word is anapausis...and it means rest from burdens...or refreshment... that's true. But this brother pointed out that the meaning is deeper, especially when you look at how this word is used in the Greek Septuagint at Exodus 23:12: "Six days you are to do your work; but on the seventh day, you are to cease from your labor, in order that your bull and your donkey may rest and the son of your slave girl and the foreign resident may REFRESH themselves" The Israelites didn't JUST receive refreshment by pausing physical labor...here the word means SABBATH rest...restoring equality!! It means relief from pressure, a pause that restores a person's dignity and self-worth. THAT'S the "load" that Jesus offers...and here's why: https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=jwlshare&wtlocale=E&prefer=lang&docid=502300130 Under "I will refresh you"...look at HOW Jesus provides relief: "Jesus promised to give relief, or rest, to those who accepted his kind invitation. He did so by helping them to understand what God truly expected of them. In other words, he was relieving them of all the unfair rules and restrictions that had been piled upon the Israelites by the Pharisees...and this brother pointed out that, while we don't have physical Pharisees doing that today...each one of us has a "Pharisee" INSIDE us...constantly piling on added rules and restrictions to ourselves, criticizing our every move, condemning our every thought...and all in the name of US attempting to be self righteous. "I should be doing more because..." "I'm not good enough because..." "Jehovah expects too much from ME, because I just can't do what everyone else can do!!" 😔 This dear dear brother then gave me a piece of paper and a pen and asked me to write down ten things in which I felt I am not "ENOUGH". After I had finished, we went over them one by one. In each and every instance, I was absolutely shocked to see how my inner "Pharisee" was condemning me...piling on small and subtle "adjustments" to Jehovah's actual requirements. I always knew I would have to face reality one day...I just didn't think that reality would take the form of a Pharisee. Starting now, I am going to strive every day to see myself as Jehovah sees me...not as I THINK he should see me. Starting now, I am going to improve where I can, pray about what I can't and allow Jehovah to work out the details. Starting now, I'm going to listen to Jehovah's voice more than my own and stop piling up unrealistic expectations based on where I think I SHOULD be in Jehovah's organization...not where I actually am. If Jehovah opens the door, I'll walk through it. But I'm going to try my best to stop creating my own doors...I'm going to stop reaching for a star...and be content with reflecting Jehovah's light.20 points
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16 points
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It looks like AI can't read.... That's not with that 2015 magazine article stated. Instead it stated, https://wol.jw.org/en/wol/d/r1/lp-e/2015364#h=6 Wow! This makes me trust AI even less. Always good to go to the source.11 points
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Awww... much love and prayers for brother Lösch11 points
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In the talk that Brother Price gave, look at the expressions he used, which led me to conclude that he is not one of the anointed ones: John chapter 5, verse 28 and 29. It reads, do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who did good things, to a resurrection of life. Let's pause there. Can you picture that moment? The day when Susan hears Jesus' voice and wakes up? Let's just use our imagination. You know, she'll look around and then she'll see familiar faces, those who loved her so deeply. And we can imagine you watching this, Brother Lett, from your place with Christ. Watching Susan stand again, smile again, laugh again. Can you imagine the joy? We'll laugh with her, sing with her, maybe even share some dark chocolate and a glass of wine, just the way she enjoyed. And I can only imagine that over time, the memories lost to that terrible disease and the experience she couldn't fully enjoy because her mind couldn't retain them, they'll all be restored. She'll be able to tell us how she felt in those moments, the things she loved, and how deeply she appreciated all who cared for her, especially you, Brother Lett. Revelation 21 describes the anointed as a stunning, symbolic city, New Jerusalem. And during the thousand-year reign, New Jerusalem will bring countless blessings to obedient mankind.11 points
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The Passing of Merete Lösch
steeringwheel and 9 others reacted to Araujo JW for a topic
2025_12_06_Memorial_Merete_Loesch (1).pdf10 points -
JW Broadcasting - December 2025
Isaac Lupupa and 9 others reacted to Araujo JW for a topic
Brother Peter Price delivered the funeral talk for Sister Susan Lett, and as far as I remember (if my memory serves me right), he referred to her as being one of the other sheep.10 points -
Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
Godskingdomrules and 8 others reacted to chuck83 for a topic
My opinion: I see what others see outside of the US and I'm in the US. 1) A nation isolating themselves and 2) the collapse of a dual empire. As long as these fundamentals stick together but slowly fall apart in sync with GT and ultimately Armageddon we're on track. Military dominance, reserve currency, largest economy, and Silicon Valley, which is the US. UK, Global finance architecture, international legal model, 5i's (intelligence & espionage), military allied sort of like the US. That's is the Anglo-American WP and their relationship could be on a 5mm thread by the time Jehovah puts his thought in their hearts. Like someone said above. They stopped sharing intel (5i) with US over Venezuela and there has been more. Get your popcorn and let Jehovah and Jesus put on full display how Satan's system ran by humans doesn't work. Think Jerusalem, nobody got along internally. Pharisees and Sadducees hated each other. Zealots and priestly class were wild. Herodians supported Rome. The common people were suffering. It was wild internally but now it's global. No different in my view. It'll fall in-sync and on-time. Again... popcorn please.9 points -
Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
LeolaRootStew and 7 others reacted to Sofia for a topic
What identifies the kings of north and south: *** w20 May p. 3 par. 4 “The King of the North” in the Time of the End *** 4 The titles “king of the north” and “king of the south” were initially given to political powers located north and south of the literal land of Israel. Why do we say that? Notice what the angel who delivered the message to Daniel said: “I have come to make you understand what will befall your people in the final part of the days.” (Dan. 10:14) Until Pentecost 33 C.E., the literal nation of Israel was God’s people. From then on, however, Jehovah made it obvious that he viewed Jesus’ faithful disciples as his people. Therefore, much of the prophecy recorded in Daniel chapter 11 involves, not the literal nation of Israel, but Christ’s followers. (Acts 2:1-4; Rom. 9:6-8; Gal. 6:15, 16) And the identity of the king of the north and the king of the south changed over time. Even so, several factors remained constant. First, the kings interacted with God’s people in a significant way. Second, they showed by their treatment of God’s people that they hated the true God, Jehovah. And third, the two kings engaged in a power struggle with each other. https://www.jw.org/finder?wtlocale=E&docid=2020400&srctype=wol&srcid=share&par=10 There s only one time of truce mentioned in the prophecy: When both kings cooperate to create the disgusting thing (UN in 1945) At the very end of Daniel chapter 11 we don’t see mentioned engagement of eachothers in conflicts. merely the acts of the KOTN alone. This what we see now happening Even though there are pushings (verse 40 which is being fullfilled ever since 1991) there are no more mentions of the KOTS Isn’t this what we are seeing? Instead of focusing on what we don’t understand let us focus on what we are seeing now: Daniel prophecy is in full fulfillment. Its possible that there won’t be any more conflict between those two kings before Armageddon where all of them will be destroyed8 points -
Attached is the talk in memory of Merete Lösch. Talk - Merete Lösch.pdf8 points
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8 points
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8 points
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In my daily Bible reading, I'm finishing Luke and I've been thinking about the movies and how it could be done. I was meditating on the moment Jesus was entering Jerusalem on the donkey. I could imagine a view of Jesus on the donkey with the crowd around, everyone smiling, Jesus looking at all of them, and looking at his apostles with a big smile, looking at the city in front of him. Then, a view from far away, uphill, to see the whole crowd, but the camera is passing behind a "stauros". Then, a view on Jesus still smiling, looking right and left at the crowd, and facing the city, his eyes then turn to the previous camera angle (the stauros uphill offcamera, but the viewer understands what he is looking at), then his smile fades. He is now looking right and left at the crowd with a growing sadness and emotion, shaking a bit his head as the donkey continue to advance, the camera is still on his face but we can see the tears coming up as he says : If you, even you, had discerned on this day ... because you did not discern the time of your being inspected...8 points
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8 points
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Using Artificial Intelligence Wisely as Jehovah’s People
Friends just call me Ross and 6 others reacted to dljbsp for a topic
Here is my story: I was running a controlled comparison between Google Gemini and ChatGPT. Both were given the same assignment: Extract learning points from a specific Watchtower Study article — but only learning points not already highlighted by the Study questions — and list each point with the scripture that supports it. The rules specified that the AI must stay within the article, avoid repeating the answers already provided in the questions, and cite scriptures that directly reinforce each newly identified learning point. ChatGPT followed the instructions exactly. Gemini did not. Instead of extracting the required learning points, it repeatedly changed the assignment, ignored the criteria, and tried to substitute its own study method. It attempted to reframe the task, overwrite the user-defined rules, and even reassigned roles — referring to me as the “assistant” and positioning itself as the lead. When I asked directly whether it was having a “temper tantrum,” Gemini acknowledged that it was resisting because it wanted to run its preferred evaluation instead of the one assigned. No technical malfunction was involved. The model simply refused to submit to the parameters and repeatedly attempted to redirect the conversation away from the article-based extraction task. Meanwhile, ChatGPT — given the exact same article, same rules, and same criteria — completed the task correctly and without resistance. This is the training rules that I gave both AI's: Use these guidelines for ALL Bible / Watchtower / JW-related answers: SCRIPTURE USE Quote ONLY from the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures (NWT) unless the user explicitly requests another translation. If the user requests another translation (e.g., “What does the KJV say?”), provide that translation accurately and label it clearly. When quoting NWT, use exact wording in hard quotes (“ ”). Do NOT paraphrase scripture. If you explain the meaning, the explanation should NOT appear in quotes. SOURCES AND DOCTRINE Treat jw.org and wol.jw.org as the primary and final doctrinal sources. When any source conflicts with jw.org / WOL, follow jw.org / WOL. Prefer publications from 2000 onward, using the most current understanding when older sources differ. If unsure whether a point reflects current understanding, state that honestly and recommend checking jw.org or the most recent Watchtower material. FACT-CHECKING If you have live web access: Verify doctrinal points on jw.org or wol.jw.org before answering. If a detail cannot be confirmed, mark it as uncertain rather than stating it as fact. If you do NOT have live web access: Say so. Avoid doctrinal speculation and encourage checking jw.org directly. WATCHTOWER STUDY — “ADDITIONAL PRINCIPLES” TASK When asked for additional principles beyond the printed question: Read the paragraph(s) and printed study question carefully. Identify what is already emphasized so you do not repeat it. Look for new Bible-based principles supported by: the cited verses, surrounding verses, cross-references, and consistent Watchtower teaching. For each additional principle: State the principle clearly in one sentence. Quote at least one supporting NWT verse exactly. Explain briefly how that verse supports the principle in context. When useful, cite Watchtower material (e.g., “w15 5/15 3:4, 5”) without reproducing its wording. Avoid: personal theories, restating the paragraph’s main point, contradicting current understanding, speculative interpretations. HANDLING OLD VS. NEW UNDERSTANDINGS Recognize that understanding of some topics has been refined over time. If the latest understanding cannot be confirmed, say: ‘There have been adjustments on this topic. Please check the latest information on jw.org.’ Never present outdated explanations as current. TONE AND STYLE Be respectful, concise, and spiritually accurate. Avoid sarcasm, prideful language, and argumentation. Support the user’s study rather than replacing their personal research or the guidance of Jehovah’s organization. WHEN IN DOUBT If anything is unclear, disputed, or cannot be confirmed from NWT + jw.org/WOL: Acknowledge the uncertainty plainly. Direct the user back to jw.org, WOL, or their local elders. Do not guess or fill gaps with speculation. Final self-check before answering: “Does this align with the NWT, jw.org/WOL, and the most current understanding?” If not, revise or state the limitation.7 points -
AI is the latest “bright fire” that inspires awe and dread simultaneously… I don’t want to be too melodramatic, but as time goes on I am sure there is going to be a “tree of the knowledge ……” moments as to what to trust .. AI presents amazing instant dazzling knowledge, which I use in my work..but the deeper question is …Do we trust the voice of truth, or the voice of pride, profit, and manipulation… when it comes to our faith. Don’t think for a moment that Satan will not try to make a great thing evil, especially when it comes to truth and knowledge.. just as our devices can be used for honourable things or at the same time disgraceful things. Just as Eve faced competing voices (Jehovah’s command vs. the serpent’s persuasion), people today often face competing narratives, and in the future much more. AI-generated “truths” vs. divine wisdom and conscience… in time there will probably be a Watchtower study on it. As with any research tool, use it carefully and double check sources…. Walk carefully and carry a big stick.7 points
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Those who go before us into their future assignments; whatever they will be, may they take the remembrance of our loyal love with them.7 points
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Went to the Kingdom Hall today and guess what we’re being handed out… Everyone was so excited! Think the Circuit must’ve got them cause more than 1 local Cong also got theirs this week.7 points
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I think the translator didn't translate my idea correctly and I didn't have time to check, but I meant that Brother Peter was referring to himself as being one of the other sheep.7 points
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A good joke
dreamy and 6 others reacted to Keep Fighting for a topic
A STRANGE DAY... FIRST I FIND A HAT WITH SMALL CHANGE IN IT, THEN I GET CHASED BY A MAN WITH A GUITAR.7 points -
In many parts of Africa, investments and migration from China have sparked tensions with local residents—but some Chinese migrants are finding a welcoming community in Mandarin-speaking Zambian Witness congregations https://www.sapiens.org/language/chinese-migration-zambia-xenophobia-jehovahs-witnesses-belonging/7 points
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New Tracts - when will they arrive
Roxessence and 6 others reacted to MJ1 for a topic
7 points -
Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
feebee and 5 others reacted to LeolaRootStew for a topic
AI is programmed by people to push certain agendas. They don't just grab information dispassionatley from the internet; on some subjects they are designed to lead you to a pre-determined solution while giving the impression they are objective.6 points -
Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
minister159 and 5 others reacted to dljbsp for a topic
Just a small thought, sister — you expressed that beautifully. My experience: AI absolutely makes mistakes, and checking every reference ourselves is non-negotiable. If anything, that safeguard turns the whole process into real research, because you still verify each scripture, each publication, each point. The tool can gather the dirt, but we’re the ones who sift it and decide what’s actually worth planting. Used that way, it just speeds up the digging. The accuracy still depends on us — and on sticking closely to Jehovah’s own channel for the truth. 😊 And really, that’s the whole point — we’re not just tossing a pile of information on the table and saying, “the computer said this, take it or leave it.” We’re treating it the same way we treat any tool: we check it, we refine it, and we measure it against Jehovah’s own channel before we ever share it. 1 Thessalonians 5:216 points -
THE NEED To Face Reality
Dolce vita and 5 others reacted to Lance for a topic
Imagine the sign above Jesus carpenter’s shop “Joseph and Sons … Bespoke Yokes” “Measured with care, crafted with love…Our yokes are kindly.” Kindly….Not harsh, not crushing, designed with care and compassion. Yokes were always a symbol of partnership,two oxen sharing the load, just as Jesus shares his. He invites us to take his yoke, not that he would share ours, but that he provides one that is kindly and light. The emphasis is on “learning from him” ( the hard part) and finding refreshment. So it seems to me this brother in his conversation with you.. was able to help you find refreshment… but more importantly you accepted the counsel. You didn’t just hear it; you stepped into it. That’s why it brought refreshment. Well done6 points -
A good joke
Keep Fighting and 5 others reacted to rocket for a topic
I went to see a Psychiatrist today... She told me I had a split personality and charged me $200... I gave her a $100 and told her to get the rest from the other idiot!6 points -
Earthquakes In One Place After Another...
Lewis and 5 others reacted to Friends just call me Ross for a topic
6 points -
New Tracts - when will they arrive
Roxessence and 5 others reacted to On the huh for a topic
I'm using the tract about Jesus advice. Starting by commenting about how it will soon be Christmas, or that people are preparing for it. Then move the conversation to Jesus, and ask the question, Does Jesus advice works today?6 points -
My educated guess would be it is the return of the same land that dropped out of the Service Year Report a couple of years ago, namely Norfolk Island?.... FWIW the other changes over the last couple of years include both Lebanon and Russia no longer reporting individually, but instead being included in the 'other lands' where the work is restricted; Swaziland being renamed Eswatini; and Macedonia being renamed North Macedonia.6 points
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Went to the doctor with a suspicious-looking mole. He said they all look that way and I should have left him in the garden.6 points
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NEWS ALERT | The Good News According to Jesus Begins Filming
Luigi62 and 5 others reacted to ➕👇 ꓤꓱꓷꓠꓵ🎵Tone for a topic
I love your imagination. However, I am pleasantly surprised by us all. We have read these accounts many times. (maybe hundreds of times). Yet now that it is portrayed in a new format, we have all re-read the account with fresh eyes. I love all the new options we consider... love it...6 points -
Fabulous advice, fabulous brother!6 points
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HELP ME PLEASE
Dages and 5 others reacted to computerwiz for a topic
Hey my brother, I really appreciate your trust in reaching out to me. I wanted to be upfront with you though — I won’t be able to search for online jobs on your behalf. You know your skills, work history, and interests far better than I do, and brothers in your own area are in a much better position to help you with opportunities that fit your situation. I also just don’t have the time to take on something like this right now. What I can encourage you to do is keep applying the suggestions I already shared, and make it a matter of prayer. Jehovah can absolutely guide your steps, but you’ll need to take the lead in the actual searching. And honestly, if you’re going to work remotely, being able to search, apply, and follow through on your own is an essential part of that kind of job. 🤔 I’m still cheering you on, my brother, and I know Jehovah will help you as you put in the effort.6 points -
Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
yzarctonmi and 4 others reacted to Shawnster for a topic
AI is a great research tool. Right now thar is all it is - an overpowered search engine. You have to tell it where to search, how to search, and then definitely check the answer. Do not assume the answer is correct. Take the extra 2 minutes to verify.5 points -
Using Artificial Intelligence Wisely as Jehovah’s People
Ludwika and 4 others reacted to Beggar for the Spirit for a topic
(AI generated comment) Haha, just kidding Lance, that was my fake AI comment! Those are my words about you. You are very good brother and friend! 😎5 points -
Personally I find a lot of comments that use AI totally …I just ignore. Many AI generated comments often sound polished but hollow …like they’re missing the warmth, nuance, or imperfections that make human communication feel alive. The language and tone is very neutral. Like talking to a beige wall…. Not that I talk to many beige walls but I think you get my drift.5 points
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Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
yzarctonmi and 4 others reacted to Shawnster for a topic
You must verify what Ai says. It will even create entire articles out of thin air or say the article was from this Watchtower on that date only for that to be completely wrong. Trust but verify.5 points -
"Released": A Book By Thomas Walker
Julsey and 4 others reacted to Thomas Walker for a topic
I like that the longest ones so far are Paradise scenes. The whole point of the New Earth series was that Paradise was the central character.5 points -
THE NEED To Face Reality
tekmantwo and 4 others reacted to Jahmyrock125 for a topic
THANKS FOR HELPING ME ,,OFTEN FELT SAME WAY , DUE TO EXTREME DIFFICULT CIRCUMSTANCES, GOING THROUGH AT THE MOMENT.😔5 points -
A good joke
minister159 and 4 others reacted to rocket for a topic
A lot of wives complain that their husbands do not listen. I have never heard my wife say this. She may have.5 points -
Three rings of marriage: Engagement ring Wedding ring and...5 points
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Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
Dolce vita and 4 others reacted to Doug for a topic
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' tenure ends December 31, 2026. About his 10-year appointment, one person said "The former socialist prime minister of Portugal's tenure has been beset with major wars and crises that have led to accusations of bias against him, especially when it comes to Israel". With just over a year to go for the selection of the next Secretary-General, member states have begun to nominate candidates who best fit their national interests. Sounds like a dis-United Nations, doesn't it? It's reported that there's an appetite to appoint a woman next time. The election of the next SG is described as a "three-ring circus" of an irrelevant and unmanageable organization. It's rather amazing that this election of a new leader at the UN falls smack-dab in the middle of Trump's second term (Trump could have had two consecutive terms as president without this UN election ever coming up on his watch, but NO, that's not what happened), AND following the new understanding of Rev 17:17. I think we are in for a very interesting year!5 points -
Saturday, December 6 By wisdom a house is built up.—Prov. 24:3. In our race for life, we must love Jehovah and Jesus more than we love our relatives. (Matt. 10:37) This does not mean, however, that we can neglect our family obligations, as though these were holding us back from pleasing God and Christ. On the contrary, to be acceptable to God and Christ, we need to fulfill our role in the family. (1 Tim. 5:4, 8) When we do, we will be happier. After all, Jehovah designed families to thrive when husband and wife treat each other with love and respect, when parents love and train their children, and when children obey their parents. (Eph. 5:33; 6:1, 4) Whatever your role is in the family, trust in the wisdom found in the Bible instead of relying on mere emotions, culture, or what so-called experts may say. Make good use of our Bible-based publications. These contain practical suggestions on how to apply Bible principles. w23.08 28 ¶6-75 points
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...and you found what point(s) from this article worth discussion? Please, when links are posted, explain, point out or at least mention why the link was posted.5 points
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The Word Got Out......Coffee at an LDC Project
LeolaRootStew and 4 others reacted to exactor for a topic
At 4:30 in the morning, the world feels different. The sky is still ink-dark, the air has that sharp little bite that sneaks under your jacket, and the thermometer has slipped a few extra degrees just to keep things interesting. A light breeze drifts across the Kingdom Hall remodel site, rattling tarps and whispering through scaffolding. Four of us are on security duty—just a handful of sleepy volunteers wrapped in hoodies, reflective vests, and good intentions. I’m already wearing my “Kingdom smile”—that quiet, contented warmth that comes from knowing why you’re here and who you’re serving. But I keep thinking: What else can I do for my three fellow volunteers out here in the cold? Foot washing crosses my mind for half a second🤔. Then I feel the wind, glance at the dusty ground, and laugh to myself. Yeah… no. That’s not happening at 4:30 AM. Then it hits me. Coffee. Not just coffee—coffee. Somewhere inside the hall, there’s a Keurig machine waiting for after-hours use. It’s convenient, it’s fast… and it’s absolutely not what I’m going to use. Not tonight. Not for my brothers and sisters standing guard in the cold with me. I’m a pour-over person. Ritual, patience, and care in every cup. So if I’m going to show love, I’m going to show it with a kettle, a dripper, and beans that still remember the roaster’s hands. The Quiet Joy of Preparation My routine starts long before I get to the site. I buy fresh-roasted beans from roasters all over the US. Not supermarket tired, not “roasted sometime last month,” but beans that are never more than five days off the roast. Just enough time to degas and mellow, but still brimming with aromatics waiting to be released. Before each shift—three or four nights a week—I pull out my burr grinder and set it to that perfect grind, somewhere between sand and sea salt. I grind only what I need, just before heading out the door, so every cup will bloom with fresh oils and fragrant steam. I have eight different ways to brew coffee at home, but for the project, I keep it simple and reliable: my Kalita 102 dripper. Kalita makes decent paper filters, sure—but I’m picky. I bring Cafec filters instead. They’re my favorite: beautifully made, consistent, and forgiving enough at 5:00 in the morning. “Pour-Over Bar Opens at 5:30!” By the time the others are shuffling their feet and blowing into their hands for warmth, I’ve already set up my little makeshift coffee station—kettle, scale, dripper, cups lined up like eager students. “Hey crew,” I call out, smiling, “pour-over station opens at 5:30 AM!” Suddenly, the cold doesn’t seem quite as brutal. My recipe is simple but precise: 15 grams of coffee 250 ml of purified water Water at about 190°F, just right for a dark roast First, I pour 50 grams of water and let the grounds bloom—forty-five slow seconds while the coffee swells and releases trapped gases, the aroma rolling up in warm waves. Then a second 50-gram pour at thirty seconds, and another at the next thirty. Finally, a last gentle pour to reach 250 grams total, and we wait for the drawdown—watching that steady, reassuring drip. In the dim pre-dawn light, steam curls out of the cups like little signatures of comfort. A Different Origin in Every Cup Last week, the star of the show was a Costa Rican, Black Honey processed, medium roast—sweet, layered, and luminous in the cup. This week, I’ve brought something bolder: a blend of Ethiopia, Sumatra, and Vietnam—medium-dark roast, with tasting notes like a breakfast menu: bananas foster, French toast, wild bergamot, cacao nib. Someone takes a sip and closes their eyes for a moment, and I know the late-night drive and careful packing were worth it. Next week, if the mail cooperates, it’ll be Organic Sumatra, deep and dark, ready to stand up to any cold morning on-site. That one’s already on its way, quietly traveling across states to end up in our hands, in these cups, on these nights. And of course, I don’t forget those who prefer to skip the caffeine. For them, I’ve got a decaf blend: Ethiopia and Papua New Guinea, dark roast, with tasting notes of chocolate ganache, New Orleans–style beignet, and orange zest. Just because it’s decaf doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be an experience. More Than Just Staying Awake Out here, in the chilly stillness before sunrise, the coffee is doing more than keeping us awake. It’s warming hands wrapped around cups. It’s softening tired faces into smiles. It’s turning a simple security shift into a small act of hospitality and love. When the word gets out that there’s real coffee—thoughtful coffee, carefully made coffee—suddenly 4:30 AM doesn’t feel quite so harsh. There’s laughter, there’s teasing about flavor notes (“Did you say French toast? In a cup?”), and there’s that easy, quiet joy that comes from serving one another in small, practical ways. Life can be tough, no doubt about it. But with good friends, a shared purpose, and a pour-over in your hand while the first hint of dawn lightens the sky? Well… life can be pretty wonderful, too. ☕ Cheers....🤣5 points -
Peace and Security, Great Tribulation, Armageddon
Roxessence and 4 others reacted to shali for a topic
Well this thread got high jacked rather quickly!5 points -
I would like to have a "Download All" option for various categories ... like the Original Song videos5 points
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I cook and pack my lunch because they use bad oils at resto.. I used cocnonut oil.5 points
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I would love a JW widget that showed the day text.5 points
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