Examining the Scriptures Daily - 2015

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, June 16

 

In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah, Sennacherib the king of Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah and proceeded to seize them.—2 Ki. 18:13.

 

Imagine how you would have felt if you had lived in Jerusalem at that time. Of course, Hezekiah was aware of the approaching danger, but rather than desperately enlist the help of a pagan nation, as his apostate father, Ahaz, had done, Hezekiah placed his trust in Jehovah. (2 Chron. 28:20, 21) He may have been aware of the words of the prophet Micah, a contemporary who foretold concerning Assyria: “As for the Assyrian, . . . we shall also have to raise up against him seven shepherds, yes, eight dukes of mankind. And they will actually shepherd the land of Assyria with the sword.” (Mic. 5:5, 6) These inspired words would surely have encouraged Hezekiah, for they show that a most unusual army would be raised up against the Assyrians and that the hostile aggressors would ultimately be defeated. w13 11/15 3:9, 10

 

[LeslieDean]

1) The most practical step that we can take to prepare for the coming attack of “the Assyrian” is that of strengthening our faith in God and helping our brothers to do the same. (2) When “the Assyrian” attacks, the elders must be absolutely convinced that Jehovah will deliver us. (3) At that time, the life-saving direction that we receive from Jehovah’s organization may not appear practical from a human standpoint. All of us must be ready to obey any instructions we may receive, whether these appear sound from a strategic or human standpoint or not. (4) Now is the time for any who may be putting their trust in secular education, material things, or human institutions to adjust their thinking. The elders must stand ready to help any who may now be wavering in their faith.

 

I have to keep reminding myself of these most practical reminders!  Otherwise, it is too easy to get caught up in the here and now of everyday life and just getting by.  It takes so much just to get by!  Satan's designs stamped with his signature written all over it.  Let me catch your attention over here for just a second--because that is all it takes.  Just a second and poof!  It can be all over.

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, June 17

 

There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.—Acts 20:35.

 

Jesus enjoyed seeing meek people respond to the good news. (Luke 10:21; John 4:34) Perhaps you have already experienced the happiness that results from helping others. If you base your major choices in life on the principles Jesus taught, you will surely bring happiness to yourself as well as to Jehovah. (Prov. 27:11) Our greatest happiness comes from serving Jehovah. (Prov. 16:20) Jeremiah’s secretary, Baruch, apparently forgot that. At one point in time, he was no longer enjoying Jehovah’s service. Jehovah told him: “You are seeking great things for yourself. Stop seeking such things. For I am about to bring a calamity on all flesh, . . . and wherever you may go, I will grant you your life as a spoil.” (Jer. 45:3, 5) What do you think? What would have made Baruch happy—seeking great things or surviving Jerusalem’s destruction as a faithful servant of God?—Jas. 1:12. w14 1/15 3:10, 11

 

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, June 18

 

You are Jehovah alone; you yourself have made the heavens, even the heaven of the heavens, and all their army, the earth and all that is upon it, the seas and all that is in them; and you are preserving all of them alive; and the army of the heavens are bowing down to you.—Neh. 9:6.

 

Yes, Jehovah God created the entire universe, made up of countless galaxies of stars. Equally marvelous, he created everything on our beautiful planet with its amazing ability to sustain an astonishing variety of life—life that keeps reproducing according to its kind. Witnessing all of this were the holy angels of God, who can also be described as “the army of the heavens.” (1 Ki. 22:19; Job 38:4, 7) Moreover, the angels humbly do God’s will by ministering to sinful humans “who are going to inherit salvation.” (Heb. 1:14) What a splendid example the angels set for us as we serve Jehovah unitedly like a well-trained army!—1 Cor. 14:33, 40. w13 10/15 3:9

 

[shabranyon]

How very true. It takes just a second to become distracted. Thank u my Sister for your expression.

Sent from my LG-D850 using Tapatalk

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, June 19

 

Be transformed by making your mind over.—Rom. 12:2.

 

As a person studies and applies Bible truth, he begins to make spiritual progress. Reflecting this progress, he makes changes in his life according to what he has learned. He puts away false religious practices and undesirable traits of his former way of life and cultivates the Christlike personality. (Eph. 4:22-24) We are happy to see hundreds of thousands make such progress each year and become qualified to get baptized in symbol of their dedication to Jehovah God. This, to be sure, makes Jehovah’s heart glad. (Prov. 27:11) However, are these changes all that are needed? Actually, being transformed involves more than making progress or improving. A note in Vine’s Expository Dictionary explains: “In Rom[ans] 12:2 being outwardly conformed to the things of this age [or system of things] is contrasted with being transformed (or transfigured) inwardly by the renewal of the thoughts through the Holy Spirit’s power.” w13 9/15 3:9, 10

 

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, June 20

 

Let us consider one another to incite to love and fine works, . . encouraging one another.—Heb. 10:24, 25.

 

To “consider one another” means “to take into account the needs of others, to think about them.” Can we closely consider the needs of others if we limit our conversations with them to a quick greeting at the Kingdom Hall or a discussion of only trivial matters? Not really. We, of course, want to be careful to ‘mind our own business’ and not to ‘meddle in other people’s affairs.’ (1 Thess. 4:11; 1 Tim. 5:13) Nevertheless, if we want to encourage our brothers, we truly need to get to know them—their situation in life, their qualities, their spirituality, their strengths, and their weaknesses. They need to view us as their friends and be assured of our love for them. This requires spending time with them—not just when they face problems and get discouraged but at other times too.—Rom. 12:13. w13 8/15 3:4, 5

 

[Miss Bea]

Plus, in order, "to incite", you have to be there. Ever heard of someone arrested for, "inciting a riot", when they were home, watching TV?

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, June 20

Let us consider one another to incite to love and fine works, . . . encouraging one another.—Heb. 10:24, 25.

To “consider one another” means “to take into account the needs of others, to think about them.” Can we closely consider the needs of others if we limit our conversations with them to a quick greeting at the Kingdom Hall or a discussion of only trivial matters? Not really. We, of course, want to be careful to ‘mind our own business’ and not to ‘meddle in other people’s affairs.’ (1 Thess. 4:11; 1 Tim. 5:13) Nevertheless, if we want to encourage our brothers, we truly need to get to know them—their situation in life, their qualities, their spirituality, their strengths, and their weaknesses. They need to view us as their friends and be assured of our love for them. This requires spending time with them—not just when they face problems and get discouraged but at other times too.—Rom. 12:13. w13 8/15 3:4, 5

[GrumpysWife]

Monday, June 22

 

He is guarding the souls of his loyal ones; out of the hand of the wicked ones he delivers them.—Ps. 97:10.

 

We want to remain loyal to Jehovah. So the more we bring our thoughts and feelings into harmony with Jehovah’s thoughts and feelings, the more we will be inclined to obey his commands. (Ps. 119:104) Granted, it will not always be easy to obey Jehovah’s commands. We may have to struggle to remain loyal. For instance, some single Christians would like to be married, but they have yet to find a suitable mate among worshippers of Jehovah. (1 Cor. 7:39) A single sister might see that her unbelieving coworkers are always trying to introduce her to some potential mate. The sister might be battling feelings of loneliness. Still, she puts forth determined effort to maintain her integrity to Jehovah. Do we not appreciate such sterling examples of loyalty? Surely Jehovah will reward all who remain faithful to him despite difficulties.—Heb. 11:6. w13 6/15 3:9, 10

 

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, June 23

 

Put on the complete suit of armor from God that you may be able to stand firm against the machinations of the Devil.—Eph. 6:11.

 

Because we exercise faith in “the ransom paid by Christ Jesus,” we have inner peace and a close relationship with God. (Rom. 3:23-25) We have a clear understanding of the precious promises contained in God’s Word. Moreover, being part of a loving international brotherhood is a source of tremendous joy. And what a blessed privilege it is to be one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. To hold fast to our wonderful inheritance of everlasting life, though, we must remain alert to Satan’s ploys. Satan has always tried to influence God’s people to make choices that could cost them their inheritance. (Num. 25:1-3, 9) Aware that his end is near, Satan has stepped up his efforts to mislead us. (Rev. 12:12, 17) If we are to keep on ‘standing firm against the machinations of the Devil,’ we must continue to value our inheritance highly. w13 5/15 5:4, 5

 

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, June 24

 

Let my cry for help reach you.—Ps. 102:1.

 

The writer of Psalm 102 was desperate. He was “oppressed,” suffering great physical or emotional distress, and he lacked the strength to deal with his problems. (Ps. 102, superscription) We find in his words an indication that he was absorbed in his pain, loneliness, and personal feelings. (Ps. 102:3, 4, 6, 11) He believed that Jehovah wanted to cast him aside. (Ps. 102:10) As we see from Psalm 102, even those who are in the faith can be in pain and be struggling to focus on anything else. The psalmist felt “like a solitary bird on a roof,” as if he had only his troubles for company. (Ps. 102:7) If you ever feel that way, pour out your heart to Jehovah as the psalmist did. The prayers of the oppressed one—your prayers—can help you as you battle negative thoughts. Jehovah promises that “he will pay attention to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their prayer.” (Ps. 102:17) Trust that promise. w14 3/15 2:19, 20

 

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, June 25

 

When I got to see it, then I fell upon my face.—Ezek. 1:28.

 

There is much more going on in support of Jehovah’s purposes than what we can see. For example, Ezekiel saw the invisible part of Jehovah’s organization depicted by a colossal celestial chariot. This chariot could move swiftly and change direction in an instant. (Ezek. 1:15-21) With each revolution of its wheels, the chariot could cover great distances. In vision, Ezekiel was also able to get a glimpse of the Rider of the chariot. He said: “I got to see something like the glow of electrum, like the appearance of fire all around . . . It was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of Jehovah.” (Ezek. 1:25-28) How awe-inspiring it must have been for Ezekiel to see this vision! He saw Jehovah in full control of his organization, directing its movement through his holy spirit. What an amazing representation of the heavenly part of Jehovah’s organization on the move! w13 4/15 3:6

 

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, June 26

 

O Jehovah, who may be a guest in your tent?—Ps. 15:1.

 

For Jehovah to be our Friend, we must meet certain conditions. As recorded in Psalm 15, David sang about what is required for us to be ‘a guest in Jehovah’s tent,’ that is, to be a friend of God. Two of these requirements are avoiding slander and acting honestly in all our dealings. David said of such a guest: “He does not slander with his tongue . . . He does not accept a bribe against the innocent.” (Ps. 15:3, 5) In another psalm, David warned: “Guard your tongue from what is bad.” (Ps. 34:13) Failure to heed this inspired counsel would create a gap between us and our righteous heavenly Father. In fact, slander is a characteristic of Jehovah’s great enemy, Satan. The term “Devil” is derived from a Greek word meaning “slanderer.” Controlling what we say about others helps preserve closeness with Jehovah. Especially is this true of our attitude regarding appointed men in the congregation.—Heb. 13:17; Jude 8. w14 2/15 4:10, 11

 

[bagwell1987]

Beautiful. It could be easy to say something negative which could be slander. But that's Satan's way of thinking. Jah thinks positive so we should try to be just like him instead. Say something good, it makes people smile!

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, June 27

 

He went out conquering and to complete his conquest.—Rev. 6:2.

 

The descriptive prophecy in Revelation chapter 6 gave reason to expect that after God’s Kingdom was established, there would be a rapid deterioration of world conditions—war, food shortage, pestilence, and other causes of death. These developments are depicted by the ride of three horsemen closely following Jesus Christ. (Rev. 6:3-8) As foretold, peace was ‘taken away from the earth.’ World War I can be viewed as just the beginning of significant wars, as is proved by recent world developments. And despite many economic and scientific advances since 1914, food shortages continue to threaten world security. Furthermore, who can deny that all kinds of pestilences, natural disasters, and other ‘deadly plagues’ continue to cut down millions of victims each year? The scope, frequency, and severity of these events are unprecedented in human history. Do you take to heart the meaning of that? w14 1/15 5:4, 5

 

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, June 28

The spirit and the bride keep on saying: “Come!” And let anyone hearing say: “Come!” And let anyone thirsting come; let anyone that wishes take life’s water free.—Rev. 22:17.

Seeing the spiritually destitute condition of those to whom we preach deepens our appreciation for the truth. People in the world have no reliable guidance to help them achieve success and happiness. Most worry about the future and have no hope. They search for the meaning of life. Even most who are religious have little knowledge of the Scriptures. They are much like the people of ancient Nineveh. (Jonah 4:11) When we have an increased share in the ministry, we see more clearly the contrast between the spiritual condition of those to whom we preach and that of Jehovah’s people. (Isa. 65:13) We are reminded of Jehovah’s goodness in that he does more than provide for our spiritual needs; he invites all to receive spiritual refreshment and a real hope. w13 9/15 5:4

[Alexa]

I am reminded to be blessed because of this text. Its what I probably feel whenever I know something I can explain in School. It is true that 'Praises only goes to Jehovah!' :-)

[GrumpysWife]

Monday, June 29

They were skinned and thrown about like sheep without a shepherd.—Matt. 9:36.

Why were the crowds in such a sad condition? Because those who had the responsibility of teaching the people God’s Law were harsh, demanding, and hypocritical. Rather than helping and nurturing members of their flock, Israel’s spiritual leaders put “heavy loads” on their shoulders. (Matt. 23:4) Present-day Christian shepherds—the appointed elders—thus have a serious responsibility. The sheep in the flock they tend belong to Jehovah and to Jesus, who identified himself as “the fine shepherd.” (John 10:11) The sheep have been “bought with a price” that Jesus paid with his own “precious blood.” (1 Cor. 6:20; 1 Pet. 1:18, 19) He loves the sheep so much that he willingly sacrificed his life for them. Elders should always remember that they are undershepherds, subject to the oversight of God’s loving Son, Jesus Christ, “the great shepherd of the sheep.”—Heb. 13:20. w13 11/15 5:2, 3

[Alexa]

I am happy for some of the elders who are discreet of their actions, they know, its the sheep of God not to them. So they are humble because they are only the workers for Jehovah's desire to us. :-) Thank you for the daily text!  

[Alexa]

I have a very good day! :-) Thanks to Jehovah. 

[LeslieDean]

Elders carry (and MS's too) such weighty responsibilities.  They are there for us in good times and bad.  Do we do our part in assisting them with their heavy load?  From heavy responsibilities (giving counsel--do we listen intently and APPLY, do we support field service. meeting attendance and participation) to preventing little annoyances (like making sure we turn our time in where wo do not have to be called?, assisting with cleaning the KH. help provide hospitality?) do we also make sure they have time for their families and some needed rest.  Can we make sure we are not high maintenance sheep with a goat like attitude.  Can we occasionally provide a few kind words in a personal note of recognition, or babysitting for a nite, or a coffee and slice of pie.  WE need their assistance more at times than others.  During those easier times when things are going smoother can we make sure they and their families know we appreciate all of their sacrifices?

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, June 30

 

[The years of our life] quickly pass by, and away we fly.—Ps. 90:10.

 

As you begin caregiving, take time to learn as much as you can about your parent’s condition. If he or she is confronted with a degenerative illness, learn what future developments you can expect. (Prov. 1:5) The approaching change in family circumstances may cause you to experience unsettling emotions—feelings of loss, shock, or confusion. Share your thoughts with a trusted friend. Above all, pour out your heart to Jehovah. He can give you the peace of mind you need to deal with any situation. (Ps. 55:22; Prov. 24:10; Phil. 4:6, 7) Some older ones and their families wisely collect information ahead of time about care options—such as the practicality of a parent living with a son or a daughter, making use of assisted living facilities, or taking advantage of other possibilities available locally. They have seen potential “trouble and sorrow” from afar and prepare for them. w14 3/15 4:4, 5

 

[MizPeg]

Tuesday, June 30

 

[The years of our life] quickly pass by, and away we fly.—Ps. 90:10.

 

As you begin caregiving, take time to learn as much as you can about your parent’s condition. If he or she is confronted with a degenerative illness, learn what future developments you can expect. (Prov. 1:5) The approaching change in family circumstances may cause you to experience unsettling emotions—feelings of loss, shock, or confusion. Share your thoughts with a trusted friend. Above all, pour out your heart to Jehovah. He can give you the peace of mind you need to deal with any situation. (Ps. 55:22; Prov. 24:10; Phil. 4:6, 7) Some older ones and their families wisely collect information ahead of time about care options—such as the practicality of a parent living with a son or a daughter, making use of assisted living facilities, or taking advantage of other possibilities available locally. They have seen potential “trouble and sorrow” from afar and prepare for them. w14 3/15 4:4, 5

I made my usual quick glance at the daily text. What a thought to contemplate as you drift off to sleep. LOL

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, July 1

 

We request of you not to be quickly shaken from your reason.—2 Thess. 2:1, 2.

 

Experience has proved that a prime way to keep alert and avoid being shaken from one’s reason is to be regularly involved in preaching the Kingdom good news. Thus, when Christ Jesus, the Head of the congregation, commanded his followers to make disciples of people of all the nations, teaching them to observe the things he had taught, he was giving advice that would protect his followers. (Matt. 28:19, 20) Acting on his direction calls on us to be zealous in the preaching work. Can you imagine that your brothers in Thessalonica would have been content to preach and teach in a perfunctory manner, as if it were a mere duty to be performed listlessly? Recall Paul’s words to them: “Do not put out the fire of the spirit. Do not treat prophesyings with contempt.” (1 Thess. 5:19, 20) And what exciting prophecies we study and share with other people! w13 12/15 1:14