Examining the Scriptures Daily - 2016

[Jackson]

I love today's Daily Text based on Genesis 3:1, because it let's me know that Satan has not changed his devious tactics. He still uses cleverly deceptive questions designed to undermine our obedience to Jehovah as well as cause us to have doubts in Jehovah's direction through His earthly organization via the "Slave Class", GB. Satan, also uses unwholesome association or certain toxic elements in all its various forms be it in the world or in our own respective congregation to cause us to become spiritually weak (Matthew 13:24-30). Satan uses social media that caters to the flesh in an immoral way that degrades us as spiritual persons and that calls into question our being servants of Jehovah. Satan uses worldly entertainment that is saturated with spiritism, violence, and sexual immorality to cause servants of Jehovah to become spiritually "shipwrecked" and Satan wants those who are not yet servants of Jehovah, but who desire to be one of Jehovah's Witnesses, to stop learning or to slow down.

 

QUESTION(s) like: "Is it REALLY SO that God said that you, Jehovah's Witnesses, can not have ANY kind of fun AT ALL!? (Yes we can have fun and enjoy entertainment, its just that Jehovah's Witnesses are very selective in our choices of entertainment, using Bible based principles and Bible based laws to guide our decisions in those areas. Sound familiar? I'm sure you can think of other scenarios and questions that Satan will use to call into question our love, loyalty, and obedience to/for Jehovah our heavenly Father.

 

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, February 10

Happy are your eyes because they see and your ears because they hear.—Matt. 13:16.

Why were Jesus’ disciples able to understand when others were not? Because they were willing to search for the real meaning behind Jesus’ words, build on what they had already accepted, and use what they had heard in their personal lives and in helping others. (Matt. 13:11, 12, 36, 51, 52) If we want to understand Jesus’ illustrations, we need to follow the example of his faithful disciples. First, we need to be willing to take the time to study and meditate on what Jesus said, to do the necessary research, and to ask the appropriate questions. This leads to knowledge.(Prov. 2:4, 5) Next, we need to see how that knowledge fits in with what we already know, discerning its benefit to us personally. That results in understanding. (Prov. 2:2, 3) Finally, we should use what we have learned, putting it into action in our lives. This shows wisdom on our part.—Prov. 2:6, 7. w14 12/15 1:3, 4

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, February 11

He was raised up.—Matt. 28:6.

That the dead could live again was not a new concept to Jesus’ apostles; resurrections had occurred before they were born. They knew that God had empowered the prophets Elijah and Elisha to perform such miracles. (1 Ki. 17:17-24; 2 Ki. 4:32-37) A dead man had even come to life when his body was thrown into a grave and it touched the bones of Elisha. (2 Ki. 13:20, 21) Very likely, all of us have been greatly moved by reading accounts of the resurrections that Jesus performed. When he restored a widow’s only son to life, she must have been astonished. (Luke 7:11-15) On another occasion, Jesus resurrected a 12-year-old girl. Imagine the joy and wonder of her previously grief-stricken parents when their daughter was brought back to life! (Luke 8:49-56) And how onlookers must have been thrilled when they saw Lazarus step from the tomb alive and well!—John 11:38-44. w14 11/15 1:3, 4

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, February 12

Show yourselves thankful . . . , encouraging one another with psalms, praises to God, spiritual songs sung with gratitude.—Col. 3:15, 16.

We can learn much from the apostle Paul about cultivating gratitude. Evidently, he meditated on his blessings, for he frequently expressed heartfelt thanks. Paul well knew that he had been “a blasphemer and a persecutor and an insolent man.” Hence, he gave thanks that despite his past sinful conduct, God and Christ had shown him mercy and had entrusted him with a ministry. (1 Tim. 1:12-14) Paul also deeply appreciated his fellow Christians and often thanked Jehovah for their fine qualities and faithful service. (Phil. 1:3-5, 7; 1 Thess. 1:2, 3) And when Paul faced trialsome situations, he was quick to thank Jehovah for the timely support that he received from his spiritual brothers. (Acts 28:15; 2 Cor. 7:5-7) It is not surprising, therefore, that Paul’s writings encourage Christians with the words of today’s text.w15 1/15 1:5

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, February 13

The crowds were astounded at his way of teaching.—Matt. 7:28.

Jesus used good judgment when he preached the good news, choosing “gracious words” that amazed his listeners. (Luke 4:22) He often let God’s Word speak for him—reading, quoting, or referring to just the right scriptures to make his point. (Matt. 4:4, 7, 10; 12:1-5; Luke 4:16-21) Jesus also explained the Scriptures, doing so in ways that moved the hearts of his listeners. After his resurrection, when speaking to two disciples on their way to Emmaus, he “interpreted to them things pertaining to himself in all the Scriptures.” The disciples later said: “Were not our hearts burning within us . . . as he was fully opening up the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:27, 32) Jesus was “mild-tempered” in his spirit and attitude. (Matt. 11:29) He was always patient with his disciples despite their failings. (Mark 14:34-38; Luke 22:24-27) He remained calm even when he was treated unjustly.—1 Pet. 2:23. w152/15 2:11, 12

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, February 14

Well done, good and faithful slave!—Matt. 25:21.

In the four illustrations recorded at Matthew 24:45 to 25:46, Jesus highlights traits that would distinguish his true followers in these last days. In the illustration involving the faithful slave, Jesus highlights the need for the small group of anointed ones entrusted with feeding his domestics during the last days to befaithful and discreet. In the parable of the virgins, Jesus stresses that all his anointed followers would need to be prepared and to be vigilant, knowing that Jesus is coming but not knowing the day or the hour. In the parable of the talents, Jesus shows that the anointed would need to be diligent in carrying out their Christian responsibilities. Jesus directs the final illustration, the parable of the sheep and the goats, to those with an earthly hope. He emphasizes that they would have to beloyal and give full support to Jesus’ anointed brothers on earth. w15 3/15 3:3

[GrumpysWife]

Monday, February 15

The Israelites became terrified.—Ex. 14:10.

Was this predicament unexpected? Not at all. Jehovah had foretold: “[Pharaoh] will chase after them, and I will glorify myself by means of Pharaoh and all his army.” (Ex. 14:4) Nevertheless, the Israelites saw only what appeared to their physical eyes—the impassable Red Sea in front of them, Pharaoh’s swift war chariots behind them, and an 80-year-old shepherd to lead them! They felt trapped. Yet, Moses did not waver. Why not? Because his eyes of faith saw something far more powerful than a sea or an army. He could “see the salvation of Jehovah,” and he knew that Jehovah would fight for the Israelites. (Ex. 14:13, 14) Moses’ faith inspired God’s people. “By faith they passed through the Red Sea as on dry land,” the Bible says, “but when the Egyptians attempted it, they were swallowed up.” (Heb. 11:29) Thereafter, “the people began to fear Jehovah and to put faith in Jehovah and in his servant Moses.”—Ex. 14:31. w14 4/15 2:15, 16

[Sharon]

I love the example of the Exodus and the Isralites in the wilderness...there is a wealth of information and reasoning that we can use for today.

That time is like a mirror image for this time...their weakness that I read about ..are  Like reading about my own.

Im so glad I have the scriptures ....even tho we live in horrendous times..and worse still to come.....we really are blessed to have Gods written word...

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, February 16

I am trying to please all people in all things, not seeking my own advantage, but that of the many, so that they may be saved.—1 Cor. 10:33.

When we call at someone’s home, we should always show respect for the individual to whom we speak. If we find someone who is receptive, we should give a good witness but we should not overstay our welcome. The householder may have set this time aside to do something else that he views as important. If he says he is busy, we can state that we will be brief—and we should keep our promise. (Matt. 5:37) When ending a conversation, we do well to ask the person when it would be convenient for him to see us again. Some publishers have found it effective to say: “I would enjoy visiting you again. Would it be best if I were to call or send a text message before I stop by?” When we adapt to the schedule of those in the territory, we are following the example of Paul, as noted in today’s text. w145/15 2:13

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, February 17

Love never fails.—1 Cor. 13:8.

Genuine love is not easily provoked and “does not keep account of the injury.” (1 Cor. 13:5) Were we to hold a grudge, we would not be pleasing God and would, in effect, be tending a smoldering fire that could flare up, harming us and others. (Lev. 19:18) Love makes us rejoice with the truth, but it will not allow us to “rejoice over unrighteousness,” even if a person who hates us is mistreated or suffers some injustice. (Prov. 24:17, 18) If someone offends us but asks for forgiveness, love moves us to forgive him. Love “believes all things” in God’s Word and makes us grateful for the spiritual food we receive. Love “hopes all things” recorded in the Bible. We also pray and hope for the best outcome in trying circumstances. Love “endures all things,” whether these are sins committed against us, persecution, or other trials. Moreover, “love never fails.” It will be displayed by obedient humans throughout all eternity.—1 Cor. 13:4-7. w14 6/15 2:14, 17, 18

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, February 18

The eyes of Jehovah are roving about through all the earth to show his strength in behalf of those whose heart is complete toward him.—2 Chron. 16:9.

Before becoming a Witness, one brother enjoyed the immoral atmosphere of the dance parties he frequented. But after learning the truth, he has completely avoided dancing even at Witness gatherings for fear of awakening improper desires or thoughts from his past. Of course, Christians are not required to abstain totally from alcohol, dancing, or other things that are not wrong in themselves. We are all expected, however, to take decisive and thorough action to protect ourselves from spiritual dangers. The privilege of bearing God’s name comes with responsibility. We must “renounce unrighteousness” and “turn away from what is bad.” (Ps. 34:14) True, doing so is not always easy. But how comforting it is to know that Jehovah will always love “those who belong to him” and who adhere to his righteous ways.—2 Tim. 2:19.w14 7/15 2:19, 20

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, February 19

The word of God is alive and exerts power.—Heb. 4:12.

You never know how people will react to a well-chosen scripture. For instance, two Witnesses in Australia knocked on a young woman’s door. One of them asked her, “Do you know God’s name?” and then read one scripture—Psalm 83:18. “I was floored!” the woman says. “After they left, I drove 35 miles (56 km) to a bookstore to check other Bible translations and then looked up the name in a dictionary. Having convinced myself that God’s name is Jehovah, I wondered what else I didn’t know.” Soon thereafter, she and her future husband began studying the Bible, and later they got baptized. God’s Word changes the lives of those who read it and develop faith in Jehovah’s living promises. (1 Thess. 2:13) The Bible’s message is more powerful than anything we might say to try to reach the heart of another person. That is why, at every possible opportunity, we should use the Word of God. It is alive! w14 8/15 2:21, 22

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, February 19

The word of God is alive and exerts power.—Heb. 4:12.

You never know how people will react to a well-chosen scripture. For instance, two Witnesses in Australia knocked on a young woman’s door. One of them asked her, “Do you know God’s name?” and then read one scripture—Psalm 83:18. “I was floored!” the woman says. “After they left, I drove 35 miles (56 km) to a bookstore to check other Bible translations and then looked up the name in a dictionary. Having convinced myself that God’s name is Jehovah, I wondered what else I didn’t know.” Soon thereafter, she and her future husband began studying the Bible, and later they got baptized. God’s Word changes the lives of those who read it and develop faith in Jehovah’s living promises. (1 Thess. 2:13) The Bible’s message is more powerful than anything we might say to try to reach the heart of another person. That is why, at every possible opportunity, we should use the Word of God. It is alive! w14 8/15 2:21, 22

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, February 20

Keep abstaining . . . from blood.—Acts 15:29.

The use of animal blood by ancient Israel’s high priest on the annual Atonement Day helps us to understand God’s view of blood. Blood was reserved for special use. It was to make atonement for the sins of those seeking Jehovah’s forgiveness. The blood of the bull and the goat was to be spattered toward and before the cover of the ark of the covenant. (Lev. 16:14, 15, 19) This action opened the way for Jehovah to forgive the sins of the Israelites. In addition, Jehovah decreed that if a man killed an animal for food, he was to pour out its blood and cover it with dust, “for the life of every sort of flesh is its blood.” (Lev. 17:11-14) All of this is in harmony with Jehovah’s earlier command to Noah and his descendants concerning blood. (Gen. 9:3-6) Jehovah God had prohibited the consuming of blood to sustain life. w14 11/15 2:10, 11

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, February 21

We just had to celebrate and rejoice, for your brother was dead but has come to life.—Luke 15:32.

The illustration of the prodigal son is a strong incentive for those who have left the truth to return to Jehovah without delay! They may be spiritually exhausted, and the way back may seem to be embarrassing and difficult. But it is worth the effort—even the heavens will rejoice when they return. (Luke 15:7, 11-32) Never would we want to be so “overly righteous” that we refuse to welcome repentant sinners back. This would result only in spiritual “ruin.” (Eccl. 7:16) We can learn another lesson from this. Someone who leaves the congregation should be viewed as “a lost sheep,” not a lost cause. (Ps. 119:176) If we meet a person who has strayed from the congregation, will we offer loving and practical help to assist him to return? Will we promptly inform the elders so that they can offer appropriate help? We will if we wisely apply the lesson we learn from Jesus’ illustration. w14 12/15 2:12, 14, 15

[timpin]

reminds me of this lovely updated direction   ...   

be humble - be happy

Edited February 21, 2016 by timpin

[GrumpysWife]

Monday, February 22

Those whom Jehovah loves he disciplines.—Heb. 12:6.

We do not enjoy being counseled or disciplined. (Heb. 12:5, 11) Yet, think of what the one who is offering us counsel must consider. He needs to be aware of what we are doing that could affect our relationship with Jehovah God, he must be concerned about our feelings, and he has to be willing to devote the time and effort needed to show us from the Bible how we can adjust our course to be pleasing to God. One brother who used his phone to access pornographic Internet sites lent his phone to an elder. When the elder began using the phone, questionable sites appeared. This turned out to be a blessing for our spiritually imperiled brother. He received timely counsel, benefited from the correction given, and eventually overcame the bad tendencies. How grateful we can be to our caring heavenly Father, who sees even our hidden sins and corrects us before we go too far! w144/15 5:8, 9

[GrumpysWife]

Tuesday, February 23

I will come against those living in security.—Ezek. 38:11.

How will God respond to satanic efforts to destroy his people? Jehovah will intervene in their behalf, exercising his right as Universal Sovereign. Jehovah considers an assault on his servants to be an attack on him. (Zech. 2:8) Therefore, our heavenly Father will take prompt action in order to rescue us. That deliverance will come to its climax with the destruction of Satan’s world at Armageddon, “the war of the great day of God the Almighty.” (Rev. 16:14, 16) Regarding Armageddon, Bible prophecy states: “Those slain by Jehovah in that day will be from one end of the earth clear to the other end of the earth. They will not be mourned, nor will they be gathered up or buried. They will become like manure on the surface of the ground.” (Jer. 25:31-33) Armageddon will bring this wicked system of things to an end. Satan’s world will be out of the way, but the earthly part of Jehovah’s organization will survive. w14 5/15 4:3-5

[Dustparticle]

AMEN!!!

[timpin]

 https://www.jw.org/en/news/legal/by-region/russia/ 

[GrumpysWife]

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Library: English Publications (2000-2016)

 

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es16 pp. 17-26 - Examining the Scriptures—2016

Wednesday, February 24

Look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.—Phil. 2:4.

Paul urged all Christians to “look out” for the interests of fellow believers. The essence of Paul’s counsel is that we should observe the gifts that others have and acknowledge them. (Phil. 2:3) How do we feel when someone shows interest in the progress that we have made? Usually, it stimulates us to make additional progress, bringing out the best in us. Likewise, when we acknowledge the value of our fellow believers, we help them to thrive and grow spiritually. All of us need special attention from time to time. Still, young or newly baptized brothers really need to sense that they are involved in the congregation’s activities. This will help them to understand that they do have a place among us. On the other hand, failure to give fitting recognition to such brothers may stifle their desire to reach out for more responsibilities.—1 Tim. 3:1. w14 6/15 4:9, 10

 

[GrumpysWife]

Thursday, February 25

From among you yourselves men will rise and speak twisted things to draw away the disciples after themselves.—Acts 20:30.

Sadly, the original Christian congregation gradually became corrupted. (Acts 20:29; 2 Pet. 2:2, 3; Jude 3, 4) As indicated by Jesus, such apostasy, promoted by “the wicked one,” Satan, would grow and obscure true Christianity until “the conclusion of the system of things.” (Matt. 13:37-43) Then Jehovah would enthrone Jesus as King over the world of mankind. That happened in October 1914, marking the beginning of “the last days” of Satan’s wicked system. (2 Tim. 3:1) Modern-day anointed Christians pointed in advance to October 1914 as a significant date. They based this on Daniel’s prophecy about a large tree that was cut down and would grow again after “seven times.” (Dan. 4:16) Jesus referred to this same period as “the appointed times of the nations” in his prophecy about his future presence and “the conclusion of the system of things.”—Luke 21:24; Matt. 24:3. w147/15 4:9, 10

[GrumpysWife]

Friday, February 26

I do not understand what I am doing. For I do not practice what I wish, but I do what I hate.—Rom. 7:15.

Satan knows that we have sinful tendencies, and he tries to induce us to cater to them. It then becomes a formidable challenge to maintain our integrity. (John 8:44-47) Consider the case of a person who becomes so absorbed in the pleasure of the moment that he ends up doing something wrong that he thought he would never do. What led up to this sad situation? Likely, the individual had gradually been losing sensitivity to Jehovah’s voice. Either he failed to notice the warning signs regarding what was happening to his heart or he chose to ignore them. For example, he might have stopped praying, slowed down in the ministry, or started missing meetings. Eventually, he succumbed to his desire and did what he knew was wrong. We can avoid such a disastrous mistake if we remain alert to any warning signs and act immediately to correct matters. w14 8/15 4:8

[GrumpysWife]

Saturday, February 27

You should know well the appearance of your flock.—Prov. 27:23.

Shepherds in ancient Israel led a rigorous life. They not only had to endure heat and cold but also had to protect their flocks from predators, both animal and human. Shepherds inspected the sheep regularly and treated any that were sick or injured. They gave special attention to the lambs because they were delicate and lacked the strength of full-grown sheep. (Gen. 33:13) In some respects, Christian parents are like shepherds, displaying qualities that are valuable to literal shepherds. A good shepherd carefully examines each sheep to make sure that it is healthy. In a figurative sense, you can do the same for your children. To do this, you need to consider your children’s actions and also their thoughts and feelings. How can you accomplish that? One of the best ways is to have frequent conversations with your children. w14 9/15 3:1-3

[GrumpysWife]

Sunday, February 28

Moses was instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians.—Acts 7:22.

A man who kept his mind fixed on the things above was Moses. His was no ordinary education. Not only was Egypt the preeminent power at the time but Moses was living in Pharaoh’s household. Little wonder that with this advanced education, Moses became “powerful in his words and deeds.” Imagine the possibilities this would have opened up for him! Yet, Moses had his mind set on more lofty matters—on doing God’s will. Early in his life, Moses’ own mother, Jochebed, had surely taught him about the God of the Hebrews. Moses highly esteemed the knowledge of Jehovah and considered it to be of greater value than any other riches. He thereby forfeited the privileges and opportunities that would likely have come to him because he lived in Pharaoh’s household. (Heb. 11:24-27) Indeed, Moses’ spiritual education and his faith in Jehovah moved him to fix his mind on the things above.—Col. 3:2. w14 10/15 4:10, 11