Examining the Scriptures Daily - 2015

[Mei]

Luezette said: "I don't have a problem with today's text naturally just something . . . how is it that Eve had a problem with pride in the Garden after Satan spoke to her . . . ."

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Good morning, Luezette!  Your question is a fair one.  ;-)  Pride, similar to arrogance, connotes a "bad sense" and all disobedience has pride as its roots.  Just some thoughts.

[GrumpysWife]

Maybe she thought, "Who is he to tell me I can't eat from this tree, He just doesn't want me to be as smart as him."

[trottigy]

Pride often refers to an inflated sense of one's personal status or accomplishments.

She felt she was so important that she could be independent of God and make her own decisions.

Interesting, pride is quite often the source of many of our mistakes. This reminds me of the mistake many Bible readers make. They think all this is about them - instead of Jehovah. For example: speaking to a Mormon lady, she stated "repentance" was Jesus primary message. Well, if it was all bout us / humans that would be true, but it isn't. This is about Jehovah and His sovereignty - hence the Kingdom is the primary message AND the sanctification of God's name. Our salvation is secondary to these - meaning He is saving the repentant ones to sanctify His name. He MUST be first.

This will be the same with whether we accept the slave's or elder's direction on things or not - pride or humility?

[Luezette]

"She felt she was so important that she could be independent of God and make her own decisions."

Well thank you for that Jerry. I mean, it was staring straight in my face that it could've hit me. So basically she felt she was all that based on what Satan said.

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, February 3

 

[Jonah] kept proclaiming and saying: “Only forty days more, and Nineveh will be overthrown.”—Jonah 3:4.

 

Jehovah gave the people of the Assyrian capital of Nineveh an opportunity to respond to his warning. His word occurred to Jonah, saying: “Get up, go to Nineveh the great city, and proclaim against her that their badness has come up before me.” Nineveh was deemed fit for destruction. (Jonah 1:1, 2; 3:1-3) However, when Jonah declared the message of doom, “the men of Nineveh began to put faith in God, and they proceeded to proclaim a fast and to put on sackcloth, from the greatest one of them even to the least one of them.” Their king “rose up from his throne and put off his official garment from himself and covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the ashes.” The Ninevites responded to Jehovah’s warning and repented. Consequently, Jehovah did not cause the calamity.—Jonah 3:5-10. w13 6/15 4:9, 10

 

[trottigy]

Yes, and soon to be even more - like God! She must have thought WAY too much about herself, eh? But not Jesus. He NEVER thought about "being equal to God" or even that it is OK to test Him - what a great example!

Edited February 3, 2015 by trottigy

[yedidia]

Now imagine:

What would you do if your congregation (like all of the other JW congregations of the world) received a letter about a special preaching action towards all the Muslims of the world stating that you have been assigned a territory in a valley in Afghanistan and that you have to make plans so as to send all of the publishers to this valley (including you !…)

Would you be happy? Or would you look for a flight to Galapagos Islands..?

[bagwell1987]

Can we possibly imagine? Nineveh was wretched, they did horrid things. Any human would massacre them all with nary a thought. But Jehovah's thinking is so far above and beyond ours, thankfully. We should be continually grateful for this love, I know I am.  

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, February 4

 

Who really is the faithful and discreet slave whom his master appointed over his domestics, to give them their food at the proper time?—Matt. 24:45.

 

Who are the domestics? Put simply, they are those who are fed. Early in the last days, the domestics were all anointed ones. Later, the domestics came to include the great crowd of other sheep. The other sheep now make up the vast majority of the “one flock” under Christ’s leadership. (John 10:16) Both groups benefit from the same timely spiritual food that is dispensed by the faithful slave. What about the Governing Body members who today make up the faithful and discreet slave? Those brothers also need to be fed spiritually. Hence, they humbly recognize that as individuals they are domestics just like all the rest of Jesus’ genuine followers. The responsibility of the faithful and discreet slave includes overseeing material assets, the preaching activity, assembly and convention programs, and the production of Bible literature. w13 7/15 4:13, 14

 

[LeslieDean]

They carry such an enormous responsibility!  And do it well!  What appreciation and support we owe them!  Their love for Jehovah is a shining example for us to do the same.

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, February 5

 

When anyone is replying to a matter before he hears it, that is foolishness on his part and a humiliation.—Prov. 18:13.

 

Parents are wise not to express their opinion too quickly. True, it is not always easy to keep quiet when your children tell you something distressing. But it is important to listen carefully before responding. If you stay calm, you will hear more and your children will keep talking. You have to get the complete picture before you are in a position to help. Behind the “wild talk” may be a heart in turmoil. (Job 6:1-3) As loving parents, use your ears to gain understanding and your tongue to heal. Children, you too need to be “slow about speaking,” not immediately objecting to what your parents say, for they have the God-given responsibility to train you. (Jas. 1:19; Prov. 22:6) They may have experienced situations like the ones you now experience. Therefore, view your parents as allies, not adversaries; as advisers, not antagonists.—Prov. 1:5. w13 5/15 4:13, 14

 

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, February 6

 

I shall make you have insight and instruct you in the way you should go.—Ps. 32:8.

 

Do we strive to take in all the spiritual food we receive and meditate on it? Doing so will help us to continue to bear fruit and not wither spiritually in these difficult last days. (Ps. 1:1-3; 35:28; 119:97) It is good for us to consider the work that is involved in making sure that we receive this regular flow of healthy spiritual provisions. The Writing Committee of the Governing Body oversees the process of researching, writing, proofreading, illustrating, and translating our printed publications as well as material posted on our Web site. Printing branches ship literature to congregations near and far. Why is all this work done? So that Jehovah’s people are well-fed spiritually. (Isa. 65:13) May we be diligent in partaking of all the spiritual food we receive through Jehovah’s organization.—Ps. 119:27. w13 4/15 4:11, 12

 

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, February 7

 

He would kindly receive all those who came to him, preaching the Kingdom of God to them.—Acts 28:30, 31.

 

Some Christians in their 50’s have poor health, and others care for aging parents or dependent children. Yet, you can be happy in the knowledge that Jehovah appreciates whatever you do in his service. So rather than be frustrated by what you cannot do, enjoy what you can do. Consider the apostle Paul’s example. For years, he was under house arrest, unable to continue his missionary travels. But whenever people visited him, he spoke to them about the Scriptures and strengthened them in the faith. Jehovah also appreciates what elderly ones can do in his service. Although Solomon pointed out that the distressing days of frail health are not the best stage of life, Jehovah values what elderly Christians can accomplish in praising him. (Luke 21:2-4) Congregations appreciate the faithful example of the long-time servants in their midst. w14 1/15 4:14, 15

 

[Luezette]

Very encouraging text isn't it? Jehovah always let us know how much he appreciates us, especially those of us who have health issues, and other issues. Wait...that's ALL of us isn't it? It gets discouraging at times, yet when we read passages like this it gives us a boost, makes us push on through the pain, etc.

Praise JEHOVAH!

Edited February 7, 2015 by Luezette

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, February 8

 

This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you.—John 17:3.

 

The Greek expression translated “taking in knowledge” can also be translated “should keep on knowing” or “should continue knowing.” Thus, “taking in knowledge” refers to an ongoing process that results in the privileged state of “knowing” God. Knowing the greatest Person in the universe, however, involves much more than having a mental grasp of God’s qualities and purpose. Knowing Jehovah includes having a close bond of love with him and with fellow believers. “He that does not love,” explains the Bible, “has not come to know God.” (1 John 4:8) Thus, knowing God includes being obedient to him. (1 John 2:3-5) What a great privilege it is to be counted as one knowing Jehovah! But as in the case of Judas Iscariot, this precious relationship can be lost. Let us work hard to maintain it. Then we will eventually qualify for the undeserved gift of everlasting life.—Matt. 24:13. w13 10/15 4:7

 

[GrumpysWife]

Monday, February 9

 

Each one must prove to be like a hiding place from the wind and a place of concealment from the rainstorm.—Isa. 32:2.

 

What if problems develop to the point that the spiritual health of a member of the congregation is threatened? “Is there anyone sick among you?” asked the Bible writer James. “Let him call the older men of the congregation to him, and let them pray over him, greasing him with oil in the name of Jehovah. And the prayer of faith will make the indisposed one well, and Jehovah will raise him up. Also, if he has committed sins, it will be forgiven him.” (Jas. 5:14, 15) Even if the spiritually ailing one does not “call the older men,” they should quickly come to his aid as soon as they become aware of his situation. When they pray with and for their brothers and support them in times of need, the elders prove themselves to be spiritually refreshing and encouraging to those under their care. w13 11/15 5:16

 

[LeslieDean]

I really appreciate this illustration compared to an illness.  It is appearnat to others when we feel sick.  Ever had someone come up and ask you if you are feeling well?  Just like a physical sickness sometimes others notice are spiritual sickness or early symptoms of an illness before we even do!

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, February 10

 

O man, who, then, really are you to be answering back to God?—Rom. 9:20.

 

If we have a trusted friend who does something that we might not at first understand or that we feel is unusual, will we be quick to accuse him of some wrongdoing? Or will we be inclined to give our friend the benefit of the doubt, especially if we have known that person for many years? If we deal with our imperfect friends in such a loving manner, how much more should we be inclined to trust our heavenly Father, whose ways and thoughts are much higher than ours! Actually, we may be responsible for some of our problems. If we are, we need to acknowledge that fact. (Gal. 6:7) Of course, not all our problems are a result of our personal mistakes and wrong actions. Some events take place as a result of “time and unforeseen occurrence.” (Eccl. 9:11) Satan the Devil, though, is the primary cause of wickedness. (1 John 5:19; Rev. 12:9) He is the enemy—not Jehovah!—1 Pet. 5:8. w13 8/15 2:18-21

 

[MizPeg]

As I read this, setting back enjoying my first cup of coffee, I think I have the perfect answer to that question. Knowing that we battle our own imperfections, satan, and his world, we only have to hang on for a short period of time.

So, we just have to cope wirh hope!

That is not all we do, but it is the basic premise. Have a great day, while you cope.  

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, February 11

 

Be reasonable.—Titus 3:2.

 

A reasonable person does not insist on always holding to the letter of the law, nor is he unduly strict, stern, or harsh. Rather, he strives to be gentle in his dealings with others, taking into consideration their circumstances. He is willing to listen to others and, when appropriate, to yield to their wishes and adjust his requirements. Of course, we would never want to confuse being reasonable with holding back from rendering service to God just to be kind to ourselves. (Matt. 16:22) We do not want to take it easy and then defend our attitude by saying that we are being reasonable. Rather, all of us need to “exert [ourselves] vigorously” in support of Kingdom interests. (Luke 13:24) Really, we strive to balance two principles. On the one hand, we exert ourselves, not holding back in our service. On the other hand, we remember that Jehovah never asks more of us than we can give. When we give him our best, we can be sure that he is pleased. w13 6/15 2:12, 20

 

[Luezette]

I love that scripture and am trying my best to apply it. As a matter of fact, the next chapter in the congregation book study deals with that very subject of being reasonable.

Jehovah is very reasonable. Here we have someone who, by the fact that he is the Sovereign vof the whole universe, being reasonable! That blows me away! He could, because he has the right, be very demanding. But he's not. I mean, yes, Jehovah has his laws, commandments, principles, etc. Yet, although he expects us to abide by them, he understands. It reminds me of when and how Jesus who is just like his father, treated that woman with that flow of blood. She knew she had no business being out with those people according to the Mosaic Law. Jesus knew it to. Yet what did he do? He understood her pain and distress so healed her. And not only that. He told her that her faith made her well. Can you hear the complainers, especially the unreasonable ones? Wait. The complainers were the unreasonable ones!

I want to be just like Jehovah and Jesus.

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, February 12

 

After breaking the loaves, [Jesus] distributed them to the disciples, the disciples in turn to the crowds.—Matt. 14:19.

 

A crowd of some 5,000 men, besides women and young children, are with Jesus and his disciples at a deserted place in the vicinity of Bethsaida. Jesus tells his disciples: “You give them something to eat.” His words must seem puzzling to them, for the provisions at hand are meager at best—five loaves and two small fish. Moved by compassion, Jesus performs a miracle—the only miracle that is recorded by all four Gospel writers. (Mark 6:35-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-13) Jesus has his disciples tell the crowd to recline on the green grass in groups of 50 and of 100. After saying a blessing, he begins breaking the bread and dividing up the fish. Then, rather than giving the food to the people directly, Jesus distributes it “to the disciples, the disciples in turn to the crowds.” Miraculously, there is more than enough for everyone to eat! w13 7/15 3:1-3

 

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, February 13

Do all things for God’s glory.​—1 Cor. 10:31.

We help draw people to Jehovah when we display such qualities as long-suffering, love, and kindness. Some who observe us may desire to learn about Jehovah, his purposes, and his people. The attitude and conduct of true Christians stand in sharp contrast with the mere outward show of godly devotion of those whose worship is often no more than a hypocritical ploy. Some religious leaders have become wealthy by defrauding their flocks, using much of the money thus obtained to acquire expensive homes and automobiles​—and in one case, an air-conditioned dog kennel. Indeed, many who claim to be followers of Christ have no inclination to “give free.” (Matt. 10:8) Instead, like the wayward priests of ancient Israel, they “instruct just for a price”​—and much of what they teach is unscriptural. (Mic. 3:11) Such hypocritical conduct does not reconcile anyone to God. w13 5/15 2:16, 18

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, February 14

 

Take hold on discipline; do not let go. Safeguard it, for it itself is your life.—Prov. 4:13.

 

God’s Word instructs Christian elders to correct others “with mildness.” (2 Tim. 2:24-26) True, a person may bring reproach on Jehovah as well as injury to innocent people. Still, an elder who gets angry when counseling such an individual will not help him. However, when elders imitate “the kindly quality of God,” they may move to repentance the one who has erred. (Rom. 2:4) In raising their children “in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah,” parents must apply Bible principles. (Eph. 6:4) A father should avoid punishing his son based on a one-sided report of the boy’s behavior. And violent anger has no place in a Christian family. “Jehovah is very tender in affection and merciful,” and those who have the responsibility for disciplining young ones should strive to show the same loving qualities.—Jas. 5:11. w13 4/15 2:17, 19, 20

 

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, February 15

Let your will take place, as in heaven, also on earth.​—Matt. 6:10.

After the Messianic King destroys God’s enemies, he will throw Satan and his demons into an abyss for a thousand years. (Rev. 20:1-3) With that evil influence out of the way, the Kingdom will move ahead to apply the benefits of Jesus’ ransom sacrifice and to eradicate the effects of Adamic sin. The King will resurrect countless millions who are sleeping in the grave and will organize an extensive educational program to teach them about Jehovah. (Rev. 20:12, 13) The entire earth will reflect the paradise conditions of the garden of Eden. All faithful humans will be raised to perfection. By the end of Christ’s Thousand Year Reign, the Messianic Kingdom will have achieved its purpose. Then Jesus will hand the Kingdom over to his Father. (1 Cor. 15:24-28) All of God’s sons in heaven and his children on earth will be united with their heavenly Father as part of his universal family. w14 1/15 2:14-16