Examining the Scriptures Daily - 2015

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, October 20

 

Trust in Jehovah with all your heart and do not lean

upon your own understanding.—Prov. 3:5.

 

Decisions! Decisions! Every day we are faced with many of them. How do you feel about the typical decisions that you face? Some people are eager to decide everything for themselves. They insist on their right to make their own decisions, resenting even the thought of someone else deciding for them. However, there are those who dread having to make decisions beyond the routine things in life. Some turn to guidebooks or counselors and perhaps spend large sums to get the advice they feel they need. Many of us are somewhere in-between. We realize that some things are beyond our jurisdiction and we can do nothing about them; yet, we appreciate that in many areas of life, we can make decisions according to our personal preferences. (Gal. 6:5) Even so, we likely admit that not all the decisions we make are necessarily wise or beneficial. w13 9/15 4:1, 2

Edited October 19, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[timpin]

when we get an announcement of new languages, what does that mean? Is that just for the WT, Awake, Bible, etc. or does that mean all across the board  ?   ... http://wol.jw.org/en/wol/h/r1/lp-e

 

Announcement

New languages available: Fulfulde (Cameroon), Gouro, Irish, Réunion Creole, Seychelles Creole, Tojolabal

Edited October 20, 2015 by timpin

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, October 21

 

What sort of persons ought you to be in holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion!—2 Pet. 3:11.

 

For us to gain God’s approval, our “acts of conduct” must be holy, that is, clean—morally, mentally, and spiritually. Moreover, we need to perform “deeds of godly devotion” with reverence for God and loyal attachment to him. Seeking his approval, then, involves not only our conduct but also our inner person. Since Jehovah is the “examiner of the heart,” he knows whether we are holy in conduct and are exclusively devoted to him or not. (1 Chron. 29:17) Satan the Devil does not want us to seek God’s approval. In fact, he does all he can to get us to abandon our relationship with Jehovah. Satan does not hesitate to use lies and deceit to seduce us and draw us away from the God we worship. (John 8:44; 2 Cor. 11:13-15) Therefore, we are wise to ask ourselves: ‘How does Satan deceive people? What can I do to protect my relationship with Jehovah?’ w13 8/15 4:2, 3

Edited October 20, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, October 22

 

When will these things be, and what will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?—Matt. 24:3.

 

Starting with the words recorded at Matthew 24:29, Jesus focused primarily on events that would happen in our day. (Matt. 24:30, 42, 44) Speaking about what will happen during the great tribulation, he said that people “will see the Son of mancoming on the clouds of heaven.” Then, in words meant for those living during the last days, he urged vigilance, saying: “You do not know on what day your Lord iscoming” and, “At an hour that you do not think to be it, the Son of man is coming.” In this context—when speaking about events that would take place in the last days—Jesus related the illustration of the faithful slave. (Matt. 24:45-47) Therefore, we may conclude that his words about that faithful slave began to be fulfilled only after the last days began in 1914. Such a conclusion makes sense. w13 7/15 4:5, 6

Edited October 21, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[AH173]

I wanted to refresh my thoughts on Matthew 24:3 about the conclusion of the systems of things expression. From some research:

Publications Volumes

w08 2/15 21-25

Christ's Presence—What Does It Mean to You?

"What will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?"—MATT. 24:3.

1 NEARLY two thousand years ago, a question was raised by four of Jesus' apostles in a private conversation with their Master on the Mount of Olives. They asked: "When will these things be, and what will be the sign of your presence and of the conclusion of the system of things?" (Matt. 24:3) In that question, the apostles used two very interesting expressions, "your presence" and "the conclusion of the system of things." To what do those expressions refer? (question)

2 To take the second expression first, consider the term "conclusion," the translation of the Greek word syn·te'lei·a. In the New World Translation, this word is consistently rendered "conclusion," whereas a related Greek word, te'los, is translated "end." The difference in the meaning of these two words can be illustrated by describing a talk given at the Kingdom Hall. The conclusion of the talk is the last section, in which the speaker spends a little time reminding the audience of what he has been discussing and then shows how that information applies to them. The end of the talk is when the speaker walks off the platform. In a similar way, Biblically speaking, the term "the conclusion of the system of things" refers to the period of time leading up to and including its end. (question)

3 What of the "presence" that the apostles asked about? This is the translation of the Greek word pa·rou·si'a. Christ's pa·rou·si'a, or presence, started with Jesus' installation as King in heaven in 1914 and continues on to include the "great tribulation," during which he comes to destroy the wicked. (Matt. 24:21) Many different things, including "the last days" of this wicked system of things, the gathering of the chosen ones, and their resurrection to heavenly life, occur during this presence of Jesus. (2 Tim. 3:1; 1 Cor. 15:23; 1 Thess. 4:15-17; 2 Thess. 2:1) It could be said that the period constituting "the conclusion of the system of things" (syn·te'lei·a) corresponds to or runs parallel with the period called Christ's presence (pa·rou·si'a)

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, October 23

 

As for me, the drawing near to God is good for me. In the Sovereign Lord Jehovah I have placed my refuge.—Ps. 73:28.

 

Here the psalmist expressed his confidence in God. What circumstances led him to this profound conclusion? Upon observing the peace of wicked people, at first the psalmist felt bitter at heart. He lamented: “It is in vain that I have cleansed my heart and that I wash my hands in innocence itself.” (Ps. 73:2, 3, 13, 21) When he came into “the grand sanctuary of God,” however, he was in a setting that helped him to adjust his thinking and maintain his intimacy with God. (Ps. 73:16-18) This experience taught that God-fearing man a vital lesson: Being among God’s people, accepting counsel, and applying it are essential to a close relationship with Jehovah. (Ps. 73:24) We too desire an intimate relationship with the true and living God. To reach that goal, it is vital that we allow his counsel or discipline to mold us, so that we become individuals who are pleasing to him! w13 6/15 4:1, 2

Edited October 22, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, October 24

 

Be flawless and not be stumbling others up to the day of Christ.

—Phil. 1:10.

 

If we love someone, we do not want to hurt that person. Instead, we strive to merit his approval. Since that is the case, we do well to take some time to reflect on what the consequences would be for us and others were we to give in to unclean fleshly desires. We should ask ourselves: ‘How would my selfish action affect my relationship with Jehovah? What effect would the wrong action have on my family? How would it affect my brothers and sisters in the congregation? Could I stumble others?’ We could also ask: ‘Are a few moments of illicit pleasure worth the heartache that my choice would cause? Do I really want to end up like Esau, weeping bitterly when I realize what I have done?’ (Heb. 12:17) Reflecting on such questions will help us to “abhor what is wicked” and “cling to what is good.” (Rom. 12:9) Especially will love for Jehovah move us to cling to our inheritance.—Ps. 73:28. w13 5/15 5:14

Edited October 24, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, October 25

 

Let us not give up in doing what is fine.—Gal. 6:9.

 

Are we personally in step with Jehovah’s wonderful organization? Is our enthusiasm for the truth ever-increasing, or is it decreasing? When considering such questions, we may note that we have begun to tire out or perhaps have lost some of our zeal. That can happen. In the first century, the apostle Paul had to exhort fellow Christians to consider the zealous example of Jesus. Paul said that this would help them not to “get tired and give out in [their] souls.” (Heb. 12:3) In a similar manner, a careful examination of the Kingdom-preaching work, which is being accomplished by Jehovah’s organization today, will do much toward helping us maintain our enthusiasm and endurance. Paul, however, indicated that more is needed if we are not going to tire out. He stated that we would need to work at “doing what is fine.” Thus, action is needed on our part. w13 4/15 4:2, 3

Edited October 24, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Monday, October 26

 

The peace of God . . . will guard your hearts and your mental powers.—Phil. 4:7.

 

It is upsetting to see the painful effects of age on beloved parents. Many caregivers experience some sadness, anxiety, frustration, anger, guilt, even resentment. At times, an aged parent may say unkind things or show a lack of gratitude. If that happens, do not be quick to take offense. The responsibilities of caring for your parents as they age can be complex and emotionally trying. There is no set of right solutions when it comes to providing senior care. Yet, with wise planning, thoughtful cooperation, good communication and, above all, heartfelt prayer, you can fulfill the responsibilities of honoring your loved ones. By doing so, you can have satisfaction in knowing that they are receiving the care and attention they need. (1 Cor. 13:4-8) Most important, you can rest assured that you will experience the peace of mind with which Jehovah blesses those who honor their parents. w14 3/15 4:16, 18

Edited October 25, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, October 27

 

The problem is that we do not know what we should pray for.—Rom. 8:26.

 

Social networking and text messaging are very popular in this age of technology. By comparison, though, how do we individually rate our personal communication with our best Friend, Jehovah? How often do we take the initiative to speak to him? Some servants of God do not find it easy to open their hearts and express their deep emotions. Yet, that is what Jehovah wants us to do when we pray. (Ps. 119:145;Lam. 3:41) Even if we find such heartfelt expressions difficult to put into words, we are not without help. Paul wrote to Christians in Rome: “The spirit itself pleads for us with unuttered groanings. But the one who searches the hearts knows what the meaning of the spirit is, because it is pleading in harmony with God for the holy ones.” (Rom. 8:26, 27) Our meditating on the words recorded in such Bible books as Job, Psalms, and Proverbs will help us to express our inmost feelings to Jehovah. w14 2/15 4:18, 19

Edited October 26, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, October 28

 

This generation will by no means pass away until all these things happen.—Matt. 24:34.

 

We understand that in mentioning “this generation,” Jesus was referring to two groups of anointed Christians. The first group discerned the sign of Christ’s presence in 1914. They were not merely alive in 1914, but they were spirit-anointed as sons of God in or before that year. (Rom. 8:14-17) The second group included in “this generation” are anointed contemporaries of the first group. They were not simply alive during the lifetime of those in the first group, but they were anointed with holy spirit during the time that those of the first group were still on earth. Today, Jesus’ words give us confidence that at least some of “this generation will by no means pass away” before seeing the start of the great tribulation. This should add to our conviction that little time remains before the King of God’s Kingdom acts to destroy the wicked and usher in a righteous new world.—2 Pet. 3:13. w14 1/15 5:15, 16

Edited October 27, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[rbrown1205]

My family study group started on the God's Kingdom book this month, having completely finished the Imitate Your Faith book just before the congregation started it.  There is a reference there to Exodus 1:6, which referred to Joseph, his brothers, and "that whole generation".  That verse really helps to clarify this definition of the word generation, because not only did it include Joseph and his brothers, but the group of people who were living during that entire episode of Israelite history.    It would include not only those who were alive during the beginning of those events, but those who were acquainted with those who were alive then, who came to "know Joseph" by what they were told, and who were able to see their children and hear that history first hand, etc.  The next Pharoah did not have that experience, so he had no love for Joseph or appreciation for what he did by God's power, so it was easy for him to oppress and enslave, and even attempt to kill the little boys who were the descendants of the children of Israel.

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, October 29

 

Try to readjust such a man in a spirit of mildness.—Gal. 6:1.

 

An elder might highlight the Scriptural principles that a brother should consider when he is endeavoring to make an important decision. He might review with him what has been published on the topic. He might also urge the individual to consider how different courses of action would affect his relationship with Jehovah. The elder can stress the importance of seeking God’s guidance in prayer before making a decision. (Prov. 3:5, 6) After discussing such matters with the fellow believer, an elder will allow him to make his own decision. (Rom. 14:1-4) The only authority that Christian overseers have comes from the Scriptures. Therefore, it is vital that they use the Bible skillfully and adhere to what it says. Doing so helps elders to avoid any possible abuse of power. After all, they are only undershepherds, and each member of the congregation will answer to Jehovah and Jesus for the decisions he or she makes.—Gal. 6:5, 7, 8. w13 11/15 5:11, 12

Edited October 28, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, October 30

 

Foxes have dens and birds of heaven have roosts, but the Son of man

has no where to lay down his head.—Matt. 8:20.

 

Jesus encouraged his disciples to have a simple eye. (Matt. 6:22) Desiring to learn from Jesus’ example, a pioneer does well to keep in mind that the more material things he has, the more he will have to maintain, repair, or replace. Pioneers realize that their privilege of service is not the result of any special merit on their part. Rather, any gift or service privilege that we might have is because of God’s undeserved kindness. Thus, in order to continue as a pioneer, each one must rely on Jehovah. (Phil. 4:13) Challenges and difficulties will arise. (Ps. 34:19) When they do, pioneers should look to Jehovah for direction and give him the opportunity to help, rather than quickly giving up their privilege of service. (Ps. 37:5) As they experience God’s loving assistance, they will be drawn closer to him as their caring heavenly Father.—Isa. 41:10. w13 9/15 5:14, 15

Edited October 29, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[Tortuga]

Since Jesus was the first born son (duh) he would have received a double portion of the family inheritance but he apparently gave that up because the scripture infers that he had no property or possessions. The family inheritance may not have been very much but Jesus gave up his double portion to put kingdom interests first.. 

[GrumpysWife]

Nice thought Richard.

[rbrown1205]

Many Bethelites are again moving out into the pioneer field and they have to rediscover relying on Jehovah while being more exposed to the world's vicissitudes.  Some who came out of the pioneer field recently in order to join Bethel have had that experience before, and undoubtedly have the experience of working secularly part time and spending the greater amount of time as a pioneer. 

 

I have heard Bethelites say that the pioneer ministry was the only thing that they wish they did not have to give up in order to go to Bethel.  The ministry represented by Bethel will always be needed, although not as much as before with the increase of computerized machinery and the greater need for spiritually strong brothers supporting the congregations locally by being there more and encouraging those in the ministry, building new places of worship, and in this new translation work.  But Jesus set the example of one who truly relied on Jehovah while he put kingdom interests first, no matter how he served him.

[Tortuga]

*** it-1 p. 320 Birthright ***

Under the patriarchal system, upon the death of the father the oldest son became the head of the family, with authority over the others as long as they were in the household. He was responsible to care for the members of his father’s household. He also succeeded to the father’s position in representing the family before Jehovah. The firstborn generally received the father’s special blessing. (Ge 27:4, 36; 48:9, 17, 18) Moreover, he was entitled to two parts of the father’s estate; that is, he received twice as much as each of his brothers. Under the Mosaic Law a man with more than one wife could not take the birthright from the oldest son and give it to the son of a specially loved wife.—De 21:15-17.

 

Jesus' earthly father Joseph had most likely died before Jesus started his ministry so Jesus had to arrange for someone to care for his father's household. It's interesting that the oldest son was also responsible to represent the family before Jehovah so Jesus had to arrange for someone to care for his spiritual responsibilities when he put kingdom interests first..

[rbrown1205]

Didn't think about Jesus' inheritance from Joseph.  The family had to be of little means since at Jesus' circumcision, they offered up two turtledoves which is the offering for one who can't afford a sheep.   So, since Jesus did have 4 fleshly half brothers and at least two half sisters, these likely provided for her physically, but Jesus arranged for Mary to be taken by John after his death, and he actually took her home, providing for her spiritually.

 

Aren't you loving this "Imitate Your Faith" train of thinking, when we are getting to know these Bible characters so much more?

Edited October 30, 2015 by rbrown1205

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, October 31

 

All your sons will be taught by Jehovah.—Isa. 54:13.

 

How can we demonstrate that we are really being “taught by Jehovah”? By carefully heeding his commands. In the safe haven of our congregations, we find needed guidance and protection, for it is there that faithful men who serve as elders provide Scriptural help and counsel. (Gal. 6:1) Much of Jehovah’s tender care reaches us through these “gifts in men.” (Eph. 4:7, 8) How should we respond? Willing submission and obedience result in God’s blessing. (Heb. 13:17) Let us be determined to be led by holy spirit and thus yield to the guidance of our heavenly Father. We also need to meditate on the life course of his Son, Jesus Christ, whose peerless example we strive to follow. For his obedience even to the point of death, Jesus received a rich reward. (Phil. 2:5-11) Like him, we will be blessed for trusting in Jehovah with all our heart.—Prov. 3:5, 6. w14 2/15 3:20, 21

Edited October 30, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[Tortuga]

Didn't think about Jesus' inheritance from Joseph.  The family had to be of little means since at Jesus' circumcision, they offered up two turtledoves which is the offering for one who can't afford a sheep.   So, since Jesus did have 4 fleshly half brothers and at least two half sisters, these likely provided for her physically, but Jesus arranged for Mary to be taken by John after his death, and he actually took her home, providing for her spiritually.

 

Aren't you loving this "Imitate Your Faith" train of thinking, when we are getting to know these Bible characters so much more?

 

They didn't have much when Jesus was born but I wonder how they were doing 30 years later. No matter they had, Jesus didn't let his double portion distract him and no doubt it was a detail of his life that he had to attend to. 

[Tortuga]

Today was a work day at the Assembly Hall and an older, very dear sister was there for text and she commented that when brother Franz was alive some of the brothers would gather at the spa once a week and brother Franz allowed them one question. One time a brother asked what they needed to do to prepare for Armageddon, Brother Franz reply was to go door-to-door. The brother asked why that was better than being at Bethel and Brother Franz replied that you know what will happen at Bethel but you don't know what will happen at Armageddon and you don't what will happen at the next door out in service, so the ministry prepares you to deal with the unknown.

 

This was her comment and I have no way to verify the experience but I can certainly imagine it is true..

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, November 1

 

Collect the weeds.—Matt. 13:30.

 

As the collecting work progressed, the distinction between true Christians and false ones became ever clearer. (Rev. 18:1, 4) By 1919, it became evident that Babylon the Great had fallen. What especially set true Christians apart from imitation ones? The preaching work. Those taking the lead among the Bible Students began to stress the importance of sharing personally in the Kingdom preaching work. For instance, To Whom the Work Is Entrusted, a pamphlet published in 1919, urged allanointed Christians to preach from house to house. It stated: “The work appears stupendous, but it is the Lord’s, and in his strength we will perform it. You have the privilege of sharing in it.” What was the response? From that time onward, reportedThe Watch Tower in 1922, the Bible Students stepped up their preaching activities. Before long, preaching from house to house became a hallmark of those faithful Christians—as it is till this day. w13 7/15 2:10, 11

Edited October 31, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[GrumpysWife]

Monday, November 2

 

Be as free people, and yet holding your freedom, not as a blind for badness, but as slaves of God.—1 Pet. 2:16.

 

There are obstacles to overcome in living up to our dedication. We face a twofold fight. First, there is the conflict Paul faced. “I really delight in the law of God according to the man I am within,” he wrote, “but I behold in my members another law warring against the law of my mind and leading me captive to sin’s law that is in my members.” (Rom. 7:22, 23) Inherited imperfection persists for us too. Consequently, we have an ongoing struggle against our fleshly tendencies. We have a second battle to wage, our fight against this world under demon influence. Satan, the ruler of the world, aims his missiles at us in an attempt to break our loyalty to Jehovah and Jesus. He seeks to enslave us by tempting us to give in to his corrupting influence. (Eph. 6:11, 12) One way Satan does this is by making his world seem attractive, alluring.—1 John 2:15, 16. w13 10/15 2:5, 6

Edited November 1, 2015 by GrumpysWife

[rbrown1205]

I honestly can't see which fight is hardest, they are both so very hard.  You have to work and be around non Witnesses to do so, unless you are blessed to have co-workers who are Witnesses.   Some people have an automatic aversion reaction when they discover that you are one of Jehovah's witnesses.  It is hardest during the holidays, I think.

 

But we also have to deal with our own tendencies, and if we find that we did something that wasn't seriously wrong, but which revealed something that we have to work on to be more like Christ, we disappoint ourselves.   I am so looking forward to when Satan's world is gone and we are on our way toward perfection during the 1000 year reign!!