Tuesday, August 29 If you become discouraged in the day of distress, your strength will be meager.​—Prov. 24:10.

[Áine]

Tuesday, August 29

If you become discouraged in the day of distress, your strength will be meager.—Prov. 24:10.

 

Change is challenging for many of us. Some who served in a form of special full-time service for a long time have received a change of assignment. Others have had to relinquish a cherished privilege because of their age. It is normal to feel disappointed when such a change affects us. We cope better with change when we look at things from Jehovah’s perspective. He is accomplishing great things today, and we have the unique privilege of being his fellow workers. (1 Cor. 3:9) Jehovah’s love for us will not change. Consequently, if a change in the organization affects you personally, avoid getting caught up in the whys and wherefores behind the change. Rather than long for “the former days,” prayerfully look for the good in the change. (Eccl. 7:10) Keep a positive attitude. Thus we will remain joyful and faithful even when our circumstances change. w22.03 17 ¶11-12

[Watching and Waiting]

Enjoyed how this goes along so nicely with the newly posted morning worship talk: Jehovah Cares for the Humble.  Brother van Selm illuminates the wording of that day's text at Isaiah 57:15, explaining how Jehovah 'resides in the high and holy place, "but also with those cursed and lowly in spirit."  For what purpose?  “To revive the spirit of the lowly “and to revive the heart of those being crushed.”  The feelings that may accompany a change of assignment are described as a 'grieving' process and when Jehovah 'resides' with those discouraged ones, he helps them regain inner peace and inner strength needed to continue serving him with joy. 

 

With literal 'grieving,' it never completely goes away.  But, over time it lessens as new attachments are made in a new assignment and the initial feeling of disappointment is overcome.