Leaderboard

I work five days a week. I get up every morning, (regardless of whether I'm working or not), at 3:15 AM...and I clock into my job at 4:30 AM at the latest. Some days I finish my job early...meaning I'm home by Noon or 1 pm. Other days, I get home at 5 or 6 pm... sometimes a little later. I say all this to say...when the weekends roll around...I am beat!! I will freely admit this...I simply do not go out in service as much as I could on weekends. I have other personal reasons which add serious weight to this decision...and I have even discussed all this with my elders, just to make sure my thinking and decisions on this matter are in harmony with Jehovah's thinking and principles. But ultimately...this doesn't take away the guilt I feel for not being out with the friends on a Saturday morning...and that is simply a hard cold fact that I continue to deal with each week...no matter how hard I try to sugarcoat it with my valid reasons. The camaraderie I am missing out on cannot be underestimated...the real chance to get to know my brothers and sisters on a much deeper level...sometimes it makes me sick to my stomach thinking of what I am missing out on...this level of understanding of the friends and what they are going through adds such a great personal feeling to the meetings...it connects me to them in such an intimate and deep way...sigh...it's hard justifying my decision...even to myself sometimes. I am working on ways of adjusting some things and juggling others so I can free up at least some Saturdays...but in the meantime...I did what I always do in these situations...I reached out to a very dear friend...an elder in a different congregation. After listening to me patiently... (which can take a lot of work because I like to talk a LOT sometimes😅), this dear brother asked a series of probing questions and then took me through a scriptural account and a bit of surrounding history that, once again, left me speechless and deeply grateful to Jehovah for such a loving and perceptive brotherhood. And now, true to form, I am sitting down and putting it down in writing for all of you. I won't bore you with the entire conversation...I will simply start by boiling down this dear brother's questions into a very real fact...something that I had...in my rush to put myself down...had overlooked. He pointed out that since he has known me... (and he has known me since I was in prison many years ago), I have never shut my mouth when it comes to informal witnessing. I open my mouth every time I get the chance...and he simply pointed out that this never stopped after I got out...every job I have ever held...I would call him and excitedly tell him about some person or other who I had shared a scriptural point with. He reminded me that I had started several Bible studies over the years through this format of witnessing...and then, over my protests about how anyone would do that...how that was nothing special...he said it was very special...as some of the friends are actually afraid to speak out to coworkers and others they see on their jobs...they could witness at a door bravely and fearlessly...and yet...when it comes to informal witnessing...they clam up in fear. He said I am making a serious mistake by underestimating what makes me unique...because Jehovah has already used me in this regard. He then took me to a Biblical account and showed me how Jehovah used another of his servants who had a very unique trait...something he had been apparently born with: Judges 3:21,22: "So Eʹhud came to him as he was sitting alone in his cool roof chamber. Then Eʹhud said: “I have a message from God for you.” So he rose up from his throne.21 Then Eʹhud drew the sword from his right thigh with his left hand and plunged it into his belly." "Why would Jehovah inspire Samuel to mention that he drew his sword from his right thigh...using his left hand?" He asked, after I read the verses aloud. I didn't know...and said as much. This brother then broke down the history of this man...telling me how Jehovah had raised him as a judge and took me back to verses 15 and 16 of that same chapter: "Then the Israelites called to Jehovah for help, so Jehovah raised up for them a savior, Eʹhud the son of Geʹra, a Benʹja·min·ite who was left-handed. In time the Israelites sent tribute through him to Egʹlon the king of Moʹab.16 Meanwhile, Eʹhud made for himself a two-edged sword, a cubit long, and he strapped it underneath his garment on his right thigh." So, Ehud was left-handed...and this was apparently not the norm in Israel. He then took me to Judges 20:16, where there were 700 left-handed men among the tribe of Benjamin, (where Ehud was from), who were all deadly slingers of stones. This brother then laid out the following line of thought for me: In ancient times, most people were right-handed, so they typically carried their swords on their left side for easy access with their right hand. Guards would check the left side of individuals entering the king's presence. Ehud, being left-handed, carried his sword on his right thigh, which was not the usual place for a sword. This allowed him to evade detection by the guard. When Ehud presented the tribute to King Eglon, he was able to use the element of surprise to his advantage. The guards, assuming he was right-handed, did not check his right side. This allowed Ehud to draw his sword quickly and assassinate the king without being detected. In other words...by him being left-handed...a trait which he considered ordinary and probably no big deal...this brave man defeated Jehovah's enemy and brought peace to the nation of Israel. The brother's point was simple and deep, at least to me: My ability to speak up and give an informal witness, no matter the situation...is something I take for granted...something I dismiss as if it's of little account! This brother then went further...and said lot's of the friends simply underestimate themselves...they look at the traits they do possess and often downgrade or belittle them...and in so doing...they simply miss what makes them so unique and important to Jehovah...and to the rest of us. So please, my dear brothers and sisters...please look at this list of 10 traits that this dear brother compiled...and please take a moment to see which one's apply to you...please take a few moments to see why YOU are so precious to Jehovah, his Son, the angels...and to the rest of us. Please...do not let Satan or his agents take away, downplay or degrade what makes you...YOU!!! Compassion: Often seen as a gentle trait, compassion can be a powerful force. It helps in building strong, supportive communities and can disarm hostility, reflecting Jehovah's love and kindness. Humility: Humility might seem like a passive trait, but it is a profound strength. It helps us stay teachable, avoid pride, and remain open to Jehovah’s guidance, making us less susceptible to Satan’s temptations of arrogance and self-righteousness. Discernment: The ability to discern can help navigate tricky situations and recognize subtle influences that could lead us astray. It’s a spiritual defense mechanism against deceit and manipulation. Patience: Patience can often be overlooked as a strength, but it helps us endure trials, wait for Jehovah’s timing, and avoid hasty decisions that could lead to spiritual pitfalls. Joy: Maintaining joy, even in difficult times, can be a powerful witness and encouragement to others. It reflects deep faith and trust in Jehovah, which can fortify us against discouragement and despair. Zeal for Truth: A passion for truth can drive us to study the scriptures diligently and share Jehovah’s message with others. This zeal can shield us from false teachings and strengthen our spiritual foundation. Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and persevere can be critical in maintaining faith through life’s challenges. Resilience, fueled by trust in Jehovah, can thwart attempts by Satan to weaken our resolve. Generosity: Generosity can break down barriers and build bonds within the community. It reflects Jehovah’s giving nature and can counteract selfish tendencies and materialism. Meekness: Often confused with weakness, meekness is actually controlled strength. It helps us remain calm and composed, especially in confrontations, reflecting a Christ-like spirit. Creativity: Creativity in worship and ministry can open new ways to reach others and make Jehovah’s teachings more accessible and engaging, thereby spreading faith and hope more effectively. May Jehovah continue to strengthen each of you...and hang on, friends...we're so close...don't let anything take you even a single step away from Jehovah and those of us who love you so dearly!

Something I noticed… 1st image is from yesterday, now I’ve updated it’s changed and removed the word “disfellowship”

Just now all the congregations in Ukraine have got emergency annoncement from Bethel. Till the end of week in-person meetings and all public, house-to-house meetings are banned. Only zoom on all the territory of Ukraine. Also reminders about emergency suitcase etc...

Ever since Covid-19 I imagined the initial attack would be against every religion, including our. The governments confiscate all religious property and public displays. No more churches or universities or any other building of a religious nature. This would include Kingdom Halls, Bethel locations and the public ministry. That alone might be enough to destroy most of false religion, at least Christendom. Look how they complained during Covid about lack of donations, etc... In Christendom people worship by "going to church." If they can't go to a church, that religion withers without support. Jehovah's people proved to be different. We flourished during Covid. We showed we could gather for meetings while staying in our own homes. We thoroughly covered the territory with letters and phone calls. Since Covid-19 our ministry has focused on starting and having conversations and we no longer emphasize placing literature. We could easily adapt to a world with no Kingdom Halls, no Bethel facilities, no carts, and no door to door ministry. While Christendom dies due to being strangled by the government, we can go right on along. Then, after false religion is gone, we will still be worshipping Jehovah and directing ones to the Truth. This causes great anger, especially among ones who mourn the loss of their previous religion. The end result is the nations attack and poke Jehovah in the eye.

I am pleased to introduce the beta version of my 2025 Calendar for Jehovah's Witnesses, available here in English. This calendar is the result of a two-month project still in progress. I’m excited to share this initial version as a preview of what’s to come, with additional language options planned for release. ca2025_E.pdf This calendar includes reminders and encouragement for each month, with selected scriptures and themes that highlight aspects of pure worship, good conduct, and praise to Jehovah. While this is a work in progress, I welcome any feedback to help refine the final version. Thank you for taking the time to explore this calendar, and I look forward to your suggestions and input!

This topic went from a very innocent and appropriate question of human need and desire. To the forum is racially profiling members comments. We are a Jehovah’s Witness discussion site… not a JW dating or match site.. If you would like to have such a site start your own site. If two members on this site want to privately communicate, that is entirely up to them and none of the moderators business..period. That been said we want all members to feel safe here, spiritually, mentally, and freedom from any harassment. We have had comments mostly from sisters who were receiving unwanted personal messages, mostly from brand new members who thought it was open season on any sister who is a desirable candidate for their aspirations. … that is why the moderators clamp down on “any” member in the whole world no matter of ethnicity…who gives “any” indication that this is a JW match site.. and would like to let everyone see their “want ad”. You may not agree with that direction.. that is fine…so if this site is not meeting your needs move on and find someplace else that meets your needs. Also we will not tolerate members who love to unpin and throw grenades for their own jollies ..and then proclaim you misunderstand me. Jesus was a peacemaker and so are his followers. Peace disturbers will be asked to leave.

Supervisor, Dave McMyllen mentioned us in this excerpt from an hour and a half meeting about the Jennings Creek Fire... VID-20241114-WA0012.mp4

What a shout of praise to our God Jehovah! Tuxedo Town Hall (1).mp4

JWB Nov 2024 - 156th Gilead Graduation

I see it the same way brother Daniel. I love this thread and it doesn't distract me from preaching or personal study, on the contrary, it all fits together. Please don't stop discussing the news... it helps most of us stay focused. Sometimes I'm a little discouraged because I think it could take a long time until the end comes. But then I read your thoughts and observations here. Then I know I'm not the only one waiting for it. That helps me a lot. Thank you all❤️

According to the most recent events in the World I would dare to say that the time before GT gets started is running out fast. It´s hard to believe that these conflicts wont escalate since KOTN is eager to overthrow KOTS hegemony power for decades. The world is becoming multipolar... and BEFORE it happens GT must start. The reason? Rev. 19 says that the false prophet will be still alive by armageddon. Daniel chapter 2: The feet from the statue are the last ruling power before armagedon. We can expect Anglo american power is still the main ruler in the World right before all 193 countries give their power to UN before GT starts. We will never see Russia, Iran or China to become MORE powerful that US-UK. Armagedom will come before.

Not a perfect picture, but a perfect message.. My 12 years old drew this picture for her school project " Peace unlimited"..

And nobody likes the way I think?😂😂😂 😂Just to relax!😂😂😂😂 I appreciate everyone's comment. Tks

The branch hasn't reported anything yet. I heard through the grapevine that no brothers or sisters were killed, I hope that stays true.

LATEST NEWS | Highlights from the 2024 Global Service Year Report On November 13, 2024, the Service Committee of the Governing Body shared highlights of the 2024 worldwide service year report with the Bethel family. It was announced that an average of 8,828,124 publishers shared in preaching the good news each month, a 2.4 percent increase. And for the first time, the peak number of publishers surpassed 9 million, with a total of 9,043,460! Also heartwarming was the 43.2 percent increase in those who returned to Jehovah, with 65,816 who were reinstated! Other increases that were announced included the following: A total of 296,267 were baptized, which represents a 9.9 percent increase over the 2023 service year. An average of 7,480,146 Bible studies were conducted each month, up 2.7 percent. Memorial attendance worldwide was 21,119,442, an increase of 3.2 percent. The number of regular pioneers increased by 6.8 percent to 1,651,698. And the number of auxiliary pioneers increased by 17.5 percent, with an average of 867,502 serving in that capacity each month

Having the Gilead one month earlier shows we are getting quicker with the translation process. That's good.

I live in the city of Valencia, Spain. We do not have any official information about whether there are any deceased or missing brothers. Some brothers have told me that there are missing brothers and some dead, but that is not official. We know that there are many affected brothers. Messages have been sent to my preaching group to see if we can offer accommodation, showers, food, clothing, blankets,... The news says that there may be 1900 missing people but it is impossible to know since they have to check thousands of vehicles swept away by the water and check underground parking lots, ground floor apartments and workplaces etc.... There are more than 5000 soldiers and 5000 police and others from rescue and emergencies. In addition, it seems that another 5000 soldiers are going to arrive since there are many towns where help has not yet arrived and the streets need to be cleared of hundreds of vehicles piled up and belongings, furniture, appliances etc. that are in the street, clean the mud... It will take time to find all the missing if they are all found. Today, dead people have been found on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea who were swept out to sea. ....So far, 217 dead people have been found. No-video-title-fdown.net (1).mp4 Screen_Recording_20241103_194702_Maps.mp4

Some of the comments above are not quite what was said. Here is the actual words from the transcript I have and checked against my notes. This is Br. Gage Fleegle speaking...

Thank you very much for your words and opinions on the various topics discussed here. Most of us are able to balance life inside and outside social media, without neglecting our commitments to the Kingdom, personal study, and an active Christian life. However, if this has been causing you any discomfort, follow your heart and do what is best for you and for your spiritual growth. Continue to show your zeal and love for Jehovah and the brothers. Take care!

PRAY FOR OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN BOTH AND ALL COUNTRIES....

That video from supervisor Dave McMyllen got me tearing up 🥹 Why? Because even non-witnesses can see the love Jehovah’s worshippers have for fellow neighbors. It’s a monumental witness. Among many things, this fellow neighborly love was what drew me years ago to Jehovah.

On a local television channel, they were interviewing several victims. Among them was a group of elderly people who shared their hardships due to the flooding and complained that they felt abandoned, that no one had come to help them, except for a group they didn’t know, a company called something like “J W something…”

FROM SERVICE OVERSEER…… USA ELECTIONS Dear friends, Due to an increased potential for civil unrest in the coming days, our body of elders have decided it would best not to meet in person for field service this Tuesday and Wednesday. Meetings for field service will be held only on Zoom. Also, this week’s mid-week meeting will be held only on Zoom and not in person. We will let you know if there are any changes to this plan. Although we do not wish to cause undue alarm, Proverbs 22:3 states: “The shrewd one sees the danger and conceals himself.” Since a disturbance can arise unexpectedly, we encourage family heads to consider what steps they may take to protect their family. These steps may include avoiding unnecessary travel, not leaving their home at night, and avoiding areas prone to protests, if possible. We encourage everyone to have sufficient supplies as you would normally do when preparing for a disaster such as a hurricane. If you need assistance with getting supplies, let us know as soon as possible. We highly recommend you get what is needed no later than Monday. Just a few practical suggestions: -Confirm that your go bag is ready -Maintain a full tank of gas in your vehicles -Keep cell phones fully charged. -Review your family evacuation plan We also encourage all families to watch the following video for any additional reminders: https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=share&wtlocale=E&lank=pub-jwb_201707_6_VIDEO If you have any questions, please contact your group overseer. Phil 4:6,7: "Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus."

We never know when we might have to run fast

Um, much ado about nothing. What do we need to serve Jehovah? To be alive, and functioning. That means beyond that, it’s irrelevant. Food prices, rent, gas prices, etc. we feed ourselves, our family, serve Jehovah. So, what ever it takes, at this point in history, to serve Jehovah, we do it. We just do it. Makes no difference to us who thinks they are in charge. We know who’s in charge. Of this system, anyway. Live frugal. Simplify. Serve Jehovah with our best. The system is tied up with this election business Not us. The best is yet to come!

On November 9, 2024, a wildfire broke out approximately two kilometers (1.2 mi) northwest of the World Headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Warwick, New York, U.S.A. This slow-moving wildfire has already burned some 2,000 hectares (5,000 acres) of land. Local officials expect the fire threat to persist until the area receives significant rainfall. Currently, there is no imminent danger to the various Bethel facilities in the area, including Warwick, the Ramapo construction site, and the broadcast studio in nearby Tuxedo Park. https://www.jw.org/en/news/region/united-states/Wildfire-Blazes-Near-World-Headquarters-of-Jehovahs-Witnesses-in-New-York-USA/

Centennial Celebration in Ghana Jehovah’s Witnesses in Ghana have commenced a two-day event celebrating 100 years of their activities in the country. The event, themed “Jehovah’s Witnesses in Ghana—100 Years of Faith in Action, Positively Impacting Communities at the Very Core,” began on November 8, 2024, at their headquarters on the Nungua-Tema Beach Road. The celebration includes tours of their facilities and highlights their contributions to the Ghanaian community over the past century. (Ghana Business News)

What is happening in this chat??? WOULD ANY OF YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE PREACHING TO THESE POLITICIANS IF THEY COULD READ YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THEM FIRST? What does neutrality mean? What does respecting the superior authorities look like? It might be a good time for some of you to take a step back. Just a suggestion.

Fire behind HQs this evening. Brothers were told to prepare with go bags if necessary.

Hello all, i told this story to some brothers, and they encouraged me to write it here for others to see, so hopefully it would make you all meditate on your own choices in life coming up. I do not like boasting about my ''spiritualness'' so please dont take it that way. But i know alot of people might find it hard to picture themselves making big sacrifices for a theocatic career. I was baptized in March 2023, we just got a new circuit overseer, and we really got along quite quickly. When i was baptized i asked Jehovah one simple question: ''What do i have to do with my life?''. Since my baptism Jehovah has seemingly given me a spirit to pioneer, because i have wanted to do nothing more than preach and talk with people about Jehovah. It went pretty suddenly and before, i really did not like service alot. A few months after i was baptized we had a part about special pioneers during the midweek meeting. My circuit overseer visited our cong during that week and i actually went in service with him. He told me ''Usually when videos like that pop up, circuit overseers try to assess who could perhaps grow towards SKE, bethel etc. Have you honestly ever considered such a career? Because i think you could definitely do it''. He told me he spent 16 years of his life working full time before going to SKE and becoming a circuit overseer, i was and am currently a chemistry student at uni right now. Hearing from him his regret for no starting sooner before in his life really made me think about my own choices. It definitely solidified my desire to attend SKE, i would have genuinely declared myself crazy if my pre-baptism self could see me right now. 1,5 years after i was baptized i became a servant in my local congregation. I decided to give Jehovah something in return so i went Auxi pioneering for 4 months last summer. I had my own field service meeting, and very quickly i was blessed with two bible studies, one of which has moved away since but we are still in contact. I honestly became a little depressed knowing i had to return to school but my heart was sold since that summer. I am now graduating soon and intending to start pioneering immediately after. I am really glad that my circuit overseer spoke with me that day. It definitely changed something. I also met an amazing sister who is already pioneering and shares the same goals i have, which was definitely a blessing from Jehovah at the time. She has helped me alot throughout this process along with Jehovah. For all of you that think you could never achieve those goals. Trust me, you can. Surrounding yourself with people that share in that zeal really motivate you to do the same. Alot of my friends have since also started pioneering. They have completely changed as people, and i am so gratefull for them. Anyone else have any stories about their experiences with this? Or advice for when i do actually start pioneering? Would love to hear from you all. I appeciate some feedback.

just a quick WILD speculation then i will shut up maybe in the next 2 months between now and when trump is in office, with how spiteful politics are to the core, Jehovah puts it in the hearts of biden/harris/whoever to give their power (while they still have it in office for the next 2 months) and influence the rest of the world to give power to the un, just so trump doesnt have "absolute" or whatever power or control might be a better word when he is sworn in. Almost like a crippling his control and having the un have the lead. Like them saying "we arent moving out before we wreck the place first for you" would be pretty cool. Regardless, thats my CRAZY speculation i was too embarassed to share until now lol

JW Broadcast Topical List 3: 2020 to 2022 is completed. All three lists, covering 2014 through 2022 are below. Working on the current one now, should complete it soon.

James, welcome to JWTalk. The Slave has published some information highlighting the principles involved in this matter. Please have a look at these articles: *** w21 July p. 30 Questions From Readers *** How should Jehovah’s Witnesses view using matchmaking websites to find a marriage mate? https://www.jw.org/finder?wtlocale=E&docid=2021483&srctype=wol&srcid=share&par=2 *** g05 4/22 p. 16 “Should I Try Internet Dating?” *** “Should I Try Internet Dating?” https://www.jw.org/finder?wtlocale=E&docid=102005286&srctype=wol&srcid=share&par=2 *** g05 5/22 p. 12 Can Internet Dating Really Be Dangerous? *** Young People Ask . . . https://www.jw.org/finder?wtlocale=E&docid=102005363&srctype=wol&srcid=share&par=1 In general, it's preferable to have a start a relationship with someone you can see in person and observe in her environment. It's very difficult to get to know a person well on the internet. Not to mention that there are many scammers who lead naive Witnesses into believing their are a person of the opposite sex and then ask for money. There are many ways you can get to know wonderful sisters around you: doing voluntary work at assemblies and conventions, accompanying friends to give talks in other congregations, joining public witnessing in metropolitan areas, volunteering to work some days for the branch... Whatever you decide to do after reading those articles, please take into account that JWTalk is not a matchmaking site, and contacting sisters here with romantic purposes is a sure way to get your membership cancelled.

I'm temporarily unfollowing this thread. My reason is to focus on what is most important: preaching the good news of the Kingdom and teaching people about Jehovah God and His purpose; focusing my energy on personal study, prayer, ministry, and strengthening my faith with fellow brothers. Whatever may unfold in the future will happen at the right time—in Jehovah's timing. For me, I don't need to follow every news update to see if something significant is happening in the world right now to convince me that the end is near. I'm already convinced that the end will come, whether in my lifetime or in generations to come. Jehovah has given us everything we need to focus on right now. Brothers, if you'd like, try unfollowing threads like this for a month, or for six months, and focus your energy on ministry and see what happens. Because I will—what about you?

I wonder what happens to the branches and those who live there... if they all have to move out and everything will be empty? Where will they go? What happens to those in need of care? Maybe we will have to invite them in our houses, then we can prove that we also apply what we have learned all these years in our literature. Exciting times are coming up

It would be the ultimate expression of mercy from Jehovah and Jesus, if many thousands (millions?) were to join us at the last opportunity. Like the vast mixed company of Egyptians. Refugees, in a sense. Not really knowing what to expect, but with a small ray of hope. We will see how it all plays out very soon . .

According to the Bible, we are living in the last days of this system of things dominated by Satan the devil (2 Timothy 3:1-5). True Christians are not blind to the course of the times. The Bible indicates that soon the nations will proclaim that they are about to resolve some conflicts that hinder world peace (1 Thessalonians 5:3). In the first letter to the Thessalonians, chapter 5, verse 3, Paul mentioned that when men say "peace and security," then sudden destruction will come upon them (1 Thessalonians 5:3). In Revelation 17:17, it is said that the day of Jehovah will begin when God puts into the hearts of the kings of the earth and the ten horns the idea of giving power to the scarlet-colored wild beast, which represents the United Nations (Revelation 17:17). Thus, at a certain point, the kings of the earth, seemingly moved by some conflict, will grant power and authority to the scarlet wild beast, that is, the UN, to take control of all world affairs. This will signify an authority that the UN has never had before, as it currently does not have power over the five permanent member countries with veto power. After this, according to Revelation, the first thing the United Nations will do is to destroy Babylon the Great, which represents all false religions in the world, starting with Christianity, the Roman Catholic Church and all other Christian religions, as well as other religions such as Shintoism, Hinduism, and Buddhism (Revelation 17:5). Jesus said that the great tribulation would be shortened for the sake of the chosen ones, that is, the brothers of Christ who are still on earth (Matthew 24:22). During this time, there will be a period of calm for true Christians, a time when they will have to flee to the mountains and hide in the congregations (Matthew 24:16). During this time, they will continue preaching the good news of the Kingdom and striving even harder to bring the Gospel to all people. Sincere people will have the opportunity to join true Christians. For true Christians, it will be the time to flee to the mountains and hide in the inner rooms, that is, in the congregations. During this time, we will continue preaching the good news of the Kingdom. It will not be a time to stop, but to strive even more to bring the Gospel to all people. Many people will leave their religions, but sincere people will have the opportunity to join us, true Christians, to stand by Jehovah's side and support the brothers of Christ (Revelation 7:9-10). In this way, when the King comes, he will be able to tell them that they helped the brothers of Christ, that is, that they helped Him when He was naked, in prison, and sick (Matthew 25:35-40). Helping the brothers of Christ is like helping Christ Himself. After these events, Gog and Magog, which we understand as a coalition of nations (we do not know if it will also include members of the UN), will attack God's people like never before (Ezekiel 38:2-4). Let's imagine that all religions have been destroyed, but Jehovah's Witnesses continue preaching, holding assemblies and congregation meetings without anyone bothering them for a short period of time. Subsequently, everyone will go against God's people, mainly attacking the branches. Let's imagine the governing body being arrested, with the authorities arriving in Warwick and arresting all the Bethelites, especially the members of the governing body. At that moment, we will lift our heads because we will know that our liberation is very near (Luke 21: 28)

NEWS RELEASES NOVEMBER 14, 2024 UNITED STATES Wildfire Blazes Near World Headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses in New York, U.S.A.

Friends, please remember this is a discussion board and it is easier to discuss news items when they are posted in the right topic in the right forum. Dumping every news item into one topic just creates a mess. This is the PS, GT, & A thread, please stay on topic.

Looks like the fires are clearing up around bethel. Tours and commuters will resume tomorrow, seems they have things under control. Still praying for their safety. Warwick.mp4

Which, by definition, is not neutral. As Christians, why would we have views on which political entity is competent/incompetent to govern? The reality is they are all incompetent. (Jeremiah 10:23) 23 I well know, O Jehovah, that man’s way does not belong to him. It does not belong to man who is walking even to direct his step.bring salvation.+ https://www.jw.org/finder?wtlocale=E&pub=nwtsty&srctype=wol&bible=24010023&srcid=share (Psalm 146:3, 4) 3 Do not put your trust in princes Nor in a son of man, who cannot bring salvation. His spirit* goes out, he returns to the ground;+ On that very day his thoughts perish.+ https://www.jw.org/finder?wtlocale=E&pub=nwtsty&srctype=wol&bible=19146003&srcid=share Do not trust politicians. It is not their place to rule anyone. By choosing to be an elected official these people are stealing what does not belong to them. They are not competent to direct their own lives, let alone anyone else.

We had some rain last night. The counties issued helicopters in the area with water. So, as of now Bethel is safe. More rains will be coming in this week. We haven't had rain in 2 months so, everything is bone dry. We do have alot of lakes and that is a big plus.

Your experience is really inspiring Bro Tim, Truely we all need to try to overcome the temptation to think nothing of ourselves. This reminds me of an experience I recently had when I walked with a sister in the field service. This sister is rarely seen in field service so it was really a privilege for me to walk with her the day she came 😄 From our conversation I got to learn a lot about what she Is going through and how she is working really hard to stand firm in her loyalty to Jehovah in the trials she was experiencing despite no one noticing it. I realized that this sister may not be opportuned to always be in field service like some of us,but she is very unique in her display of Loyalty to Jehovah. I almost gave way to tears when I learnt this about her. Over time,I have learned to appreciate my brothers and sisters very much because I have come to realize that everyone in his own unique way is working really hard to show love for Jehovah and his son Jesus Christ.

A sister in the Philippines who we have been supporting for 22 months just passed her 2nd government board to be a certified PSW. She was 1 of 10 who passed today out of 26 who were going for extended training. This will allow her to work in a hospital setting even here in North America. We had her quit her slave wage 6 days a week job at Dole plantation - weeding. She was making 8000 PH pesos a month, about $200 CDN. After completely supporting her ( and helping out parents and some food for family ) since last winter, Jehovah has blessed her with a very in demand skill. Took lots of hard work despite complaints from her one sister. With a lot of prayer and encouragement from us she made it. Now she has to do 2 weeks of practical trainer at a nursing home. May Jehovah find her a suitable job that will let her at least auxiliary pioneer. Prayers to that end would be appreciated. Her name is Crismor ( Chris ).

"the brain is the most complicated organ in the universe"..."the brain has more connections than there are stars in the universe"! 😲💢 Jehovah is amazing, awe-inspiring!

FYI: The US Branch has advised Circuit Overseers and Elders to remind the congregations to be prepared for civil unrest that is appropriate for their area, so not all congregations in the US will receive the same information. Depending on their location and the potential for unrest, the elders may consider making temporary adjustments for the regularly scheduled meetings and field service arrangements. Since a civil unrest can start unexpectedly, the brothers may encourage family heads to consider what steps they may take to protect their family. Families may want to avoid unnecessary travel, leaving their home at night, and going to areas prone to protests

There used to be 9 or 10 updates per year. In 2020 there were 9 and in 2021 there were 10. Then we shortened the production to 8 per year. In 2022 there were 8 and in 2023 there were 8 updates. These were about 6 weeks apart. Now in 2024 we have had 6 updates with the last coming at the end of September. If they planned on 8 this year, they will have to hurry. It might be they will shorten our updates to just 7 this year. We are getting closer to one every 2 months.

In years past (when I was much younger with more energy) I had the privilege of working with the Society's legal department, at first in Brooklyn and then at Patterson. Over time I accumulated 16 weeks of "temporary Bethel service," sometimes for a whole week, other times two or three days at a time. In addition, I also worked with them on some projects "long distance," which did not count for my 16 weeks. I am a Certified Public Accountant with 50+ years experience. The projects I worked on with these brothers were to help keep the Society from having problems with obscure provisions of the US Internal Revenue Code that can affect religious organizations and churches. In one case the Society was considering purchasing a significant piece of property in Florida. They called me and asked if I knew a good Floride "dirt lawyer" that could tell if there were any hidden problems in the propsed project. I had an attorney with whom I had worked on several Condominium projects on the barrier islands between Pensacola and the Gulf of Mexico. They asked me to have him review the material to see if there were any potentisl "Florida type" problems. I had done enough work with him so that all it cost me was buying him lunch. In 50+ years working with the US Internal Revenue Code and researching tax cases over that period of time, I learned to recognize when something has been well rearched and all possible implication have been considered. If these brothers do not have the specific answers, they know enough attorneys, CPAs, and other professionals, in Jehovah's organization around the contry on whom they can call to be sure they are doing things the right way. I remember one instance when they asked me to research something, and I know they asked at least six other CPAs around the country to research the same issue. The level of research and professionalism I observed working with the attorneys at Bethel was much better than the experience I have had working with worldly attorneys in my local area. If the Society is going to purse legal action on something, we can rest assured they will do it absolutely the right way. It reminds us of how the Bible decribes how Noah built the ark: "He did just so." Thanks, Jim

We had some issues with the translation, which is why there was no proper text interpretation. What I mean to say is that the Great Tribulation is not something to fear for the faithful. Despite the difficulties that Jehovah's people will face, they will be protected by Him. The Great Tribulation will involve the collapse of the current system, which will cause panic among the people. However, as Jehovah’s Witnesses, we can be confident that Jehovah will save us, guiding us on what to do to survive this critical period. We will be the only ones to continue practicing our faith, which may provoke the wrath of the nations, leading to a full attack against us. Yet, as the faithful, we can 'lift our heads' with confidence, knowing that deliverance is near at that moment. Vengeance will come from Jehovah, and because of the chosen ones, a great crowd will escape.