Wednesday, April 18 Keep conquering the evil with the good.​—Rom. 12:21.

[GrumpysWife]

Wednesday, April 18

Keep conquering the evil with the good.—Rom. 12:21.

 

Even if we had a difficult childhood or if our present circumstances seem hopeless, we need to keep contending and persevering. We can trust that if we do so, Jehovah will bless us. (Gen. 39:21-23) Think of a situation that you are facing and that may be a trial for you. Perhaps it is some type of injustice, prejudice, or ridicule. Or the trial you face may be that someone falsely accuses you, perhaps out of jealousy. Rather than drop your hands in defeat, remember what enabled Jacob, Rachel, and Joseph to continue serving Jehovah with joy. God strengthened and blessed them because they kept on showing deep appreciation for spiritual things. They kept on contending and acting in harmony with their earnest prayers. We are living close to the end of the present wicked system of things; thus, we have strong reason to hold on to the firm hope set before us! Are you willing to exert yourself to gain Jehovah’s favor? w16.09 2:8, 9

[New World Explorer]

4 minutes ago, GrumpysWife said:

God strengthened and blessed them because they kept on showing deep appreciation for spiritual things. They kept on contending

Are you willing to exert yourself to gain Jehovah’s favor

I always felt that "making willing effort" to serve Jehovah wins his favor as apposed to "passive" approach. 

I really don't like "lukewarm" approach to the truth.

Many brothers don't want to reach out, because this means hard work in the congregation and ministry ..well, today's text nails that very well.

 

[nicolette]

16 hours ago, GrumpysWife said:

Wednesday, April 18

Keep conquering the evil with the good.—Rom. 12:21.

 

Even if we had a difficult childhood or if our present circumstances seem hopeless, we need to keep contending and persevering. We can trust that if we do so, Jehovah will bless us. (Gen. 39:21-23)

I love, love the introduction. Yes, we all can play the victims but in all seriousness if we do not ask Jehovah for help, will we move forward? I can attest- I did. Rather sooner than later but I throw my burden on him every waking moment.

[Myew]

Jacob's example is one I strive to imitate, even part of my name is translated from his name. The WT study this text is from is one of my favorites and came at a time when I really needed it. Never give up when exerting yourself for a blessing!

Edited April 18, 2018 by Myew