The end of Times, starts to be very tired

[Andress]

Dear all

I just want to start a discussion on this topic to hear whether it is unique to where I live or if it’s a feeling that everyone is experiencing right now (and if so, something that is of utmost importance for our angels and Jehovah to help us with).

Since the pandemic and all the misery happening in the world (climate issues, a slowing economy, insecurity, etc.), I feel like the wind has been taken out of my sails a bit, and I almost feel like my energy is depleted. I serve as an elder, pioneer, and am part of the hospital committee. My wife is a pioneer, and my two boys are as well. Personally, we have no problems—we have jobs, everyone is healthy, etc. But it feels like the atmosphere and joy at the meetings, and among the friends, hasn’t fully returned. Perhaps many were hoping too much for the end, which hasn’t come despite everything, and we’re now in a sort of "waiting period."

I get the sense that this applies to many congregations in Northern Europe (our region). Is it the same in other parts of the world? If not, how do you maintain energy and joy ?

how is field service going, Any diffrence in your territory last years ?

Edited September 24 by Andress
Text adjustment

[Dustparticle]

1 hour ago, Andress said:

Dear all

I just want to start a discussion on this topic to hear whether it is unique to where I live or if it’s a feeling that everyone is experiencing right now (and if so, something that is of utmost importance for our angels and Jehovah to help us with).

Since the pandemic and all the misery happening in the world (climate issues, a slowing economy, insecurity, etc.), I feel like the wind has been taken out of my sails a bit, and I almost feel like my energy is depleted. I serve as an elder, pioneer, and am part of the hospital committee. My wife is a pioneer, and my two boys are as well. Personally, we have no problems—we have jobs, everyone is healthy, etc. But it feels like the atmosphere and joy at the meetings, and among the friends, hasn’t fully returned. Perhaps many were hoping too much for the end, which hasn’t come despite everything, and we’re now in a sort of "waiting period."

I get the sense that this applies to many congregations in Northern Europe (our region). Is it the same in other parts of the world? If not, how do you maintain energy and joy ?

how is field service going, Any diffrence in your territory last years ?

Now matter in good times or bad times. We must put our feet down and make the truth your own. Compare  2 Timothy 4:2

Edited September 24 by Dustparticle

[Patience87]

I feel it as well. Several of our pioneers have had to come off the list, me included. My mental and physical health aren't what it used to be. I cannot tolerate talking to people as well as I used to. I come home after service with my head spinning. I just don't know what it is other than the result of the pandemic. Our congregation meetings are just not the same as before either in terms of attendance. Many times I walk into our hall and there is only 30-40 people in a congregation of over 130 publishers. They are struggling to find brothers to do A/V. My husband never gets a break. Midweek meeting is also difficult for the Life & Ministry overseer. So many cancellations and last-minute juggling. What happened to people being responsible? I've noticed that the younger generation is lacking in this department.

 

OK enough negativity. Time for me to go watch some morning worships or perhaps we will have a GB update. That always encourages me.

[fix it shop]

49 minutes ago, Dustparticle said:

Now matter in good times or bad times. We must put our feet down and make the truth your own. Compare  2 Timothy 4:2

Yes PUT THE PEDAL TO THE METAL .

[Drahcir]

1 hour ago, Andress said:

Dear all

I just want to start a discussion on this topic to hear whether it is unique to where I live or if it’s a feeling that everyone is experiencing right now (and if so, something that is of utmost importance for our angels and Jehovah to help us with).

Since the pandemic and all the misery happening in the world (climate issues, a slowing economy, insecurity, etc.), I feel like the wind has been taken out of my sails a bit, and I almost feel like my energy is depleted. I serve as an elder, pioneer, and am part of the hospital committee. My wife is a pioneer, and my two boys are as well. Personally, we have no problems—we have jobs, everyone is healthy, etc. But it feels like the atmosphere and joy at the meetings, and among the friends, hasn’t fully returned. Perhaps many were hoping too much for the end, which hasn’t come despite everything, and we’re now in a sort of "waiting period."

I get the sense that this applies to many congregations in Northern Europe (our region). Is it the same in other parts of the world? If not, how do you maintain energy and joy ?

how is field service going, Any diffrence in your territory last years ?

Thank you for sharing your heartfelt reflections. The spiritual exhaustion you're describing no doubt resonates with many brothers and sisters around the world. We’re living in unprecedented times, and often our spiritual energy levels can feel depleted affecting our joy in the truth. It is important to remember we are in a “waiting period” (Habakkuk 2:3), which may feel longer than we anticipated. Even so, let me say THANK YOU for the love and faithfulness you and your family give in service to Jehovah, it is deeply appreciated and so encouraging. You can be sure it is seen and valued by many and always by Jehovah. 

 

I very much find Philippians 4:6-7 a great reminder for me personally, to not forget (as I sometimes do) to take the time to prayer to Jehovah and remember: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers.” The truth and serving Jehovah give us such a tremendous sense of peace and helps in restoring some of the energy and joy we may have lost.

[hatcheckgirl]

I don’t think it’s just you, brother Andress, up there in Scandinavia. I’m from sunny Perth, Australia, and I can see the same pattern here too. You are indeed commendable in what you and your family are doing for the congregation as you serve Jehovah. I really believe we are better understanding Matt 24:13 - we all need to endure til the end. And we are close to the end, so no wonder we feel the extra sluggishness. So many of us have serious health issues (physical, mental and emotional), and even young people are tired all the time.

 

But we know we are all in this together, and we can only keep enduring with joy with Jehovah’s help. He gave Daniel a vision of what life would be like in our days, and how did Daniel react? It appears that the things he heard had an adverse effect on him (Dan 10:14-17). And so no wonder we are feeling exhausted, living through what Daniel saw in vision. 
 

But no matter how weakened we feel, Jehovah makes up the lack as long as we do our best - 2 Cor 12:10. So, if we can’t make it to the meeting, there is zoom. If we can’t get out to do door to door witnessing, there is carts and letter writing. If we all just keep doing the best we can, Jehovah will draw in deserving ones, even though we all are feeling worn out. It the last push! And then we’re in the paradise.

[Drahcir]

3 hours ago, Patience87 said:

I feel it as well. Several of our pioneers have had to come off the list, me included. My mental and physical health aren't what it used to be. I cannot tolerate talking to people as well as I used to. I come home after service with my head spinning. I just don't know what it is other than the result of the pandemic. Our congregation meetings are just not the same as before either in terms of attendance. Many times I walk into our hall and there is only 30-40 people in a congregation of over 130 publishers. They are struggling to find brothers to do A/V. My husband never gets a break. Midweek meeting is also difficult for the Life & Ministry overseer. So many cancellations and last-minute juggling. What happened to people being responsible? I've noticed that the younger generation is lacking in this department.

 

OK enough negativity. Time for me to go watch some morning worships or perhaps we will have a GB update. That always encourages me.

Wow such a tremendous example. Thank you Sister for your service in pioneering. But also thanks to your husband for assisting in lifting the “yolk” of others during meetings. Your sacrifices and example are so appreciated.
 

I’m so strengthened and often amazed when I reflect on the faithfulness of our brothers and sisters serving year after year. Jehovah loves us and recognizes our best efforts. He helps us live the best life possible now while we wait for the real life to come. 

[CHecker]

My dear, I know personally that how you feel is the RULE not the exception. Your feelings, as one staying committed to serving whole souled, are echoed among the vast majority of Jehovah’s people. I have even said, although being committed to my precious Father, that I'm sick of living in this stupid system. I'm tired of the fight, tired of how many hoops I have to jump through, how many people I have to pacify. Those who know me understand I'm going through a divorce from an abuser, having been financially abandoned trying to keep the house to sell it and have suffered a ruptured disc in my lower lumbar, then a storm came and blew down 12 trees around my house taking part of my roof and a section of my bear fencing. Now my spiritual mom is losing her husband of 43 years and facing knee replacement. 

This system is kicking us around but NOT DOWN! Stay strong knowing we're all in this together and feel the very same as you. Fellow feeling my dear, fellow feeling.

[daydream]

 

2 hours ago, bagwell1987 said:

I'm going through a divorce from an abuser, having been financially abandoned trying to keep the house to sell it and have suffered a ruptured disc in my lower lumbar, then a storm came and blew down 12 trees around my house taking part of my roof and a section of my bear fencing. Now my spiritual mom is losing her husband of 43 years and facing knee replacement. 

Oh my this is really so awful. I really don't know how you can cope with so many setbacks coming at you at the same time. Only Jehovah knows everything you feeling right now and He knows how to comfort you with the help of fellow witnesses. 

With the climate change affecting so many places, we'll have to expect vicious storms to pummel us. But we may be down for a time but not out. 

 

Spoiler

 

 

Severe low back pain on its own may be a symptom of a ruptured disc, but it can also be caused by strains or sprains of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. However, low back pain combined with shooting pain down the back of one or both legs (sciatica) usually points to a herniated or ruptured disc.

 

Disc wear and tear tends to worsen over time, so you should be prepared for occasional flare-ups. Your best bet is to maintain your back health. You can do that by:

• exercising regularly
• maintaining a healthy weight
• avoiding activities that trigger back pain

https://www.healthline.com/health/ruptured-disc#symptoms

 

[fix it shop]

1 minute ago, daydream said:

 

Oh my this is really so awful. I really don't know how you can cope with so many setbacks coming at you at the same time. Only Jehovah knows everything you feeling right now and He knows how to comfort you with the help of fellow witnesses. 

With the climate change affecting so many places, we'll have to expect vicious storms to pummel us. But we may be down for a time but not out. 

 

  Hide contents

 

 

Severe low back pain on its own may be a symptom of a ruptured disc, but it can also be caused by strains or sprains of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. However, low back pain combined with shooting pain down the back of one or both legs (sciatica) usually points to a herniated or ruptured disc.

 

Disc wear and tear tends to worsen over time, so you should be prepared for occasional flare-ups. Your best bet is to maintain your back health. You can do that by:

• exercising regularly
• maintaining a healthy weight
• avoiding activities that trigger back pain

https://www.healthline.com/health/ruptured-disc#symptoms

 

With you in our prayers

[fix it shop]

4 minutes ago, daydream said:

 

Oh my this is really so awful. I really don't know how you can cope with so many setbacks coming at you at the same time. Only Jehovah knows everything you feeling right now and He knows how to comfort you with the help of fellow witnesses. 

With the climate change affecting so many places, we'll have to expect vicious storms to pummel us. But we may be down for a time but not out. 

 

  Hide contents

 

 

Severe low back pain on its own may be a symptom of a ruptured disc, but it can also be caused by strains or sprains of muscles, tendons, and ligaments. However, low back pain combined with shooting pain down the back of one or both legs (sciatica) usually points to a herniated or ruptured disc.

 

Disc wear and tear tends to worsen over time, so you should be prepared for occasional flare-ups. Your best bet is to maintain your back health. You can do that by:

• exercising regularly
• maintaining a healthy weight
• avoiding activities that trigger back pain

https://www.healthline.com/health/ruptured-disc#symptoms

 

Thank you my friend

[fix it shop]

6 hours ago, Patience87 said:

I feel it as well. Several of our pioneers have had to come off the list, me included. My mental and physical health aren't what it used to be. I cannot tolerate talking to people as well as I used to. I come home after service with my head spinning. I just don't know what it is other than the result of the pandemic. Our congregation meetings are just not the same as before either in terms of attendance. Many times I walk into our hall and there is only 30-40 people in a congregation of over 130 publishers. They are struggling to find brothers to do A/V. My husband never gets a break. Midweek meeting is also difficult for the Life & Ministry overseer. So many cancellations and last-minute juggling. What happened to people being responsible? I've noticed that the younger generation is lacking in this department.

 

OK enough negativity. Time for me to go watch some morning worships or perhaps we will have a GB update. That always encourages me.

I believe we are trying. A Cong 13 minutes  away had 13 in hall - rest on zoom .Covid back again . Satan attacking every direction  . Show love, care ,kindness , especially  on this site ! We're trying our best - honest - we   are   trying   our    best !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Andress]

8 hours ago, Dustparticle said:

Now matter in good times or bad times. We must put our feet down and make the truth your own. Compare  2 Timothy 4:2

True

we can not give up, just continue ofcourse 

[fix it shop]

14 minutes ago, Andress said:

True

we can not give up, just continue ofcourse 

Our slogan from our brothers in the concentration  camps in Germany  ," No one left behind ! "

[Ludwika]

4 minutes ago, WD-40 said:

Our slogan from our brothers in the concentration  camps in Germany  ," No one left behind

I really like that thought! 

[Korotkiy]

Many congregation in Ukraine that are located near of war line are still conducting their meeting in Zoom from beginning of pandemy in 2020.

In other cases, publishers are still stay in zoom. We had have Local needs about it yesterday... About 35-40 are in Zoom every tiime (in general we have 88 publishers).

  

[fix it shop]

3 minutes ago, Ludwika said:

I really like that thought! 

When the allies were closing  in Germans evaculate camp .Some could not walk far .They fall down ,was shot . Our dear brothers have ,I think ,some carts .When one could not make it they were put in the cart to rest , others took turn pushing cart  ,therefore  the words " no one left behind . Sorry I got to cry .   Forgive

[Kyria]

I for one am one of those who have health issues which limits how much ministry I am able to do. We are not being encouraged to just write letters though. Our circuit overseer, as well as others local to me have stressed the need to explore many forms of in person ministry, for those with limitations to either being brave to try informal witnessing in various settings, supporting cart work if we struggle with door to door, etc. 

And in a balanced way the circuit overseer has been encouraging all younger healthy brothers and sisters to take the lead in the door to door and bible study work, especially regular pioneers. This has also been such an encouraging development. Despite the way this system has attempted to put a stop to our service, causing us go wane a little, Jehovah and his Organization have found ways to reignite the zeal we had for our ministry prior to the pandemic. As much as I empathise so much with everyone struggling like myself, I want to say please don't give up and please don't fixate on your health overmuch as hard as it is. You can do so many things with the power of Jehovah’s holy spirit, we just need to keep praying to Jehovah for his support. Isaiah 40:29 - 31 is one of my favourite scriptures to read in this case. ❤️xx

[fix it shop]

9 minutes ago, WD-40 said:

When the allies were closing  in Germans evaculate camp .Some could not walk far .They fall down ,was shot . Our dear brothers have ,I think ,some carts .When one could not make it they were put in the cart to rest , others took turn pushing cart  ,therefore  the words " no one left behind . Sorry I got to cry .   Forgive

Brother so weak - Jehovah gave strength to continue .     Sorry , saddness

[fix it shop]

12 minutes ago, Kyria said:

I for one am one of those who have health issues which limits how much ministry I am able to do. We are not being encouraged to just write letters though. Our circuit overseer, as well as others local to me have stressed the need to explore many forms of in person ministry, for those with limitations to either being brave to try informal witnessing in various settings, supporting cart work if we struggle with door to door, etc. 

And in a balanced way the circuit overseer has been encouraging all younger healthy brothers and sisters to take the lead in the door to door and bible study work, especially regular pioneers. This has also been such an encouraging development. Despite the way this system has attempted to put a stop to our service, causing us go wane a little, Jehovah and his Organization have found ways to reignite the zeal we had for our ministry prior to the pandemic. As much as I empathise so much with everyone struggling like myself, I want to say please don't give up and please don't fixate on your health overmuch as hard as it is. You can do so many things with the power of Jehovah’s holy spirit, we just need to keep praying to Jehovah for his support. Isaiah 40:29 - 31 is one of my favourite scriptures to read in this case. ❤️xx

No one left behind .        Double love 💕  for your efforts , you are so,  so kind  .Warmest Christian Love.          Thanks for sharing

[fix it shop]

19 minutes ago, Korotkiy said:

Many congregation in Ukraine that are located near of war line are still conducting their meeting in Zoom from beginning of pandemy in 2020.

In other cases, publishers are still stay in zoom. We had have Local needs about it yesterday... About 35-40 are in Zoom every tiime (in general we have 88 publishers).

  

Thank you brother for sharing and caring . Christian love

[fix it shop]

11 minutes ago, WD-40 said:

Brother so weak - Jehovah gave strength to continue .     Sorry , saddness

If you watch documentary on YouTube will see some that has purple triangle on uniform . Our brothers and sisters . Have plenty of tissue ,your floodgates ( tears ) WILL FLOW

[fix it shop]

46 minutes ago, WD-40 said:

Our slogan from our brothers in the concentration  camps in Germany  ," No one left behind ! "

I think this was on our broadcast , can someone ck , please .    Much love

[HappyDumpling]

Reading everyone's comments in this thread is sad but encouraging. I can only imagine how Jehovah must be so proud of all of us just trying. Here in Namibia, it is the same thing. People are struggling. And many have anxiety more so than ever before in coming to the meetings and places where there are crowds for whatever personal reason they may have.  I think it is the same thing worldwide. The pandemic did not just hit the world and us as individuals economically but it has created a new social challenge and spiritual challenge. In human history there have always been events that made a mark on mankind as a whole on human psyche. Even those I speak to in the world at work or in the ministry struggle as well. @Andress Last weekend when engaging in house to house - my field service partner started her presentation. The woman at the door broke down at the front door in tears unable to talk. She was not interested in having a Bible Study, she was just tired and done with this life. Life is different. Even for those in the field. I did not say anything to this householder. I just walked up and gave her a hug and walked away. A complete stranger. Everyone is feeling it.

 

We who serve Jehovah have an extra load to carry. Big world events that hit global makes a dent on humans individually and therefore determines the social stage as a whole of humankind. It was the same for humans during the world wars, the great depression and so forth. The pandemic was a big one. So the outcome we are all facing is to be expected unfortunately. We were in isolation. That affects the mind and the mind affects most other things. 

 

Energy and joy - well, for one thing reading this thread. Knowing that this feeling is felt and that no one is alone. Looking at all of you and knowing some of your struggles and seeing you are still trying - That gives me energy!!! We have got this! All of us! No matter if it's residue after the pandemic we are dealing with or unfortunate and unfair situations we did not choose that are affecting us. We have each other and more importantly we have the most powerful force in the universe! Jehovah. ❤️ I am so proud of all of you! It does not matter if we are face down barely crawling or crouching or walking or running - we are all trying to move! I am so incredibly encouraged by all of you!

Edited September 25 by HappyDumpling

[Dages]

We are very tired here, but at the same time, Jehovah is blessing. Many started Reg pioneering this september, and the reparation in our KH has everyone excited, so we don't have to focus on the morosity of the people.
So, with the campaign, more that half of the cong is pioneering, 1/4 is reg pio. It's a good start.
We are tired but we are happy to walk with Jehovah.

Let it come, let it come