Please Never Underestimate...What Makes YOU Unique

[Timl1980]

I work five days a week. I get up every morning, (regardless of whether I'm working or not), at 3:15 AM...and I clock into my job at 4:30 AM at the latest. Some days I finish my job early...meaning I'm home by Noon or 1 pm. Other days, I get home at 5 or 6 pm... sometimes a little later. 

 

I say all this to say...when the weekends roll around...I am beat!!

 

I will freely admit this...I simply do not go out in service as much as I could on weekends. I have other personal reasons which add serious weight to this decision...and I have even discussed all this with my elders, just to make sure my thinking and decisions on this matter are in harmony with Jehovah's thinking and principles. 

 

But ultimately...this doesn't take away the guilt I feel for not being out with the friends on a Saturday morning...and that is simply a hard cold fact that I continue to deal with each week...no matter how hard I try to sugarcoat it with my valid reasons.

 

The camaraderie I am missing out on cannot be underestimated...the real chance to get to know my brothers and sisters on a much deeper level...sometimes it makes me sick to my stomach thinking of what I am missing out on...this level of understanding of the friends and what they are going through adds such a great personal feeling to the meetings...it connects me to them in such an intimate and deep way...sigh...it's hard justifying my decision...even to myself sometimes.

 

I am working on ways of adjusting some things and juggling others so I can free up at least some Saturdays...but in the meantime...I did what I always do in these situations...I reached out to a very dear friend...an elder in a different congregation.

 

After listening to me patiently... (which can take a lot of work because I like to talk a LOT sometimes😅), this dear brother asked a series of probing questions and then took me through a scriptural account and a bit of surrounding history that, once again, left me speechless and deeply grateful to Jehovah for such a loving and perceptive brotherhood. 

 

And now, true to form, I am sitting down and putting it down in writing for all of you. I won't bore you with the entire conversation...I will simply start by boiling down this dear brother's questions into a very real fact...something that I had...in my rush to put myself down...had overlooked.

 

He pointed out that since he has known me... (and he has known me since I was in prison many years ago), I have never shut my mouth when it comes to informal witnessing. I open my mouth every time I get the chance...and he simply pointed out that this never stopped after I got out...every job I have ever held...I would call him and excitedly tell him about some person or other who I had shared a scriptural point with. He reminded me that I had started several Bible studies over the years through this format of witnessing...and then, over my protests about how anyone would do that...how that was nothing special...he said it was very special...as some of the friends are actually afraid to speak out to coworkers and others they see on their jobs...they could witness at a door bravely and fearlessly...and yet...when it comes to informal witnessing...they clam up in fear.

 

He said I am making a serious mistake by underestimating what makes me unique...because Jehovah has already used me in this regard. He then took me to a Biblical account and showed me how Jehovah used another of his servants who had a very unique trait...something he had been apparently born with:

 

Judges 3:21,22: "So Eʹhud came to him as he was sitting alone in his cool roof chamber. Then Eʹhud said: “I have a message from God for you.” So he rose up from his throne.21 Then Eʹhud drew the sword from his right thigh with his left hand and plunged it into his belly."

 

"Why would Jehovah inspire Samuel to mention that he drew his sword from his right thigh...using his left hand?" He asked, after I read the verses aloud.

 

I didn't know...and said as much.

 

This brother then broke down the history of this man...telling me how Jehovah had raised him as a judge and took me back to verses 15 and 16 of that same chapter: "Then the Israelites called to Jehovah for help, so Jehovah raised up for them a savior, Eʹhud the son of Geʹra, a Benʹja·min·ite who was left-handed. In time the Israelites sent tribute through him to Egʹlon the king of Moʹab.16 Meanwhile, Eʹhud made for himself a two-edged sword, a cubit long, and he strapped it underneath his garment on his right thigh."

 

So, Ehud was left-handed...and this was apparently not the norm in Israel. He then took me to Judges 20:16, where there were 700 left-handed men among the tribe of Benjamin, (where Ehud was from), who were all deadly slingers of stones.

 

This brother then laid out the following line of thought for me:  In ancient times, most people were right-handed, so they typically carried their swords on their left side for easy access with their right hand. Guards would check the left side of individuals entering the king's presence. Ehud, being left-handed, carried his sword on his right thigh, which was not the usual place for a sword. This allowed him to evade detection by the guard.

 

When Ehud presented the tribute to King Eglon, he was able to use the element of surprise to his advantage. The guards, assuming he was right-handed, did not check his right side. This allowed Ehud to draw his sword quickly and assassinate the king without being detected.

 

In other words...by him being left-handed...a trait which he considered ordinary and probably no big deal...this brave man defeated Jehovah's enemy and brought peace to the nation of Israel. 

 

The brother's point was simple and deep, at least to me: My ability to speak up and give an informal witness, no matter the situation...is something I take for granted...something I dismiss as if it's of little account!

 

This brother then went further...and said lot's of the friends simply underestimate themselves...they look at the traits they do possess and often downgrade or belittle them...and in so doing...they simply miss what makes them so unique and important to Jehovah...and to the rest of us.

 

So please, my dear brothers and sisters...please look at this list of 10 traits that this dear brother compiled...and please take a moment to see which one's apply to you...please take a few moments to see why YOU are so precious to Jehovah, his Son, the angels...and to the rest of us.

 

Please...do not let Satan or his agents take away, downplay or degrade what makes you...YOU!!!

 

Compassion:

Often seen as a gentle trait, compassion can be a powerful force. It helps in building strong, supportive communities and can disarm hostility, reflecting Jehovah's love and kindness.

 

Humility:

Humility might seem like a passive trait, but it is a profound strength. It helps us stay teachable, avoid pride, and remain open to Jehovah’s guidance, making us less susceptible to Satan’s temptations of arrogance and self-righteousness.

 

Discernment:

The ability to discern can help navigate tricky situations and recognize subtle influences that could lead us astray. It’s a spiritual defense mechanism against deceit and manipulation.

 

Patience:

Patience can often be overlooked as a strength, but it helps us endure trials, wait for Jehovah’s timing, and avoid hasty decisions that could lead to spiritual pitfalls.

 

Joy:

Maintaining joy, even in difficult times, can be a powerful witness and encouragement to others. It reflects deep faith and trust in Jehovah, which can fortify us against discouragement and despair.

 

Zeal for Truth:

A passion for truth can drive us to study the scriptures diligently and share Jehovah’s message with others. This zeal can shield us from false teachings and strengthen our spiritual foundation.

 

Resilience:

The ability to bounce back from setbacks and persevere can be critical in maintaining faith through life’s challenges. Resilience, fueled by trust in Jehovah, can thwart attempts by Satan to weaken our resolve.

 

Generosity:

Generosity can break down barriers and build bonds within the community. It reflects Jehovah’s giving nature and can counteract selfish tendencies and materialism.

 

Meekness:

Often confused with weakness, meekness is actually controlled strength. It helps us remain calm and composed, especially in confrontations, reflecting a Christ-like spirit.

 

Creativity:

Creativity in worship and ministry can open new ways to reach others and make Jehovah’s teachings more accessible and engaging, thereby spreading faith and hope more effectively.

 

May Jehovah continue to strengthen each of you...and hang on, friends...we're so close...don't let anything take you even a single step away from Jehovah and those of us who love you so dearly!

 

[Ishaya]

Your experience is really inspiring Bro Tim,

 

Truely we all need to try to overcome the temptation to think nothing of ourselves.

 

This reminds me of an experience I recently had when I walked with a sister in the field service.

This sister is rarely seen in field service so it was  really a privilege for me to walk with her the day she came 😄

 

From our conversation I got to learn a lot about what she Is going through and how she is working really hard to stand firm in her loyalty to Jehovah in the trials she was experiencing despite no one noticing it.

 

I realized that this sister may not be opportuned to always be in field service like some of us,but she is  very unique in her display of Loyalty to Jehovah.

I almost gave way to tears when I learnt this about her.

 

Over time,I have learned to appreciate my brothers and sisters very much because I have come to realize that everyone in his own unique way is working really hard to show love for Jehovah and his son Jesus Christ.

[dljbsp]

@Timl1980

Thank you, Brother Tim, for sharing this heartfelt experience and the thoughtful counsel from your friend. It’s a powerful reminder that Jehovah values each of our unique qualities, and sometimes what we overlook in ourselves can be a real asset in His service. Your willingness to be open about your struggles and the way you’re working through them with Jehovah’s help is truly encouraging. It’s comforting to know that even when we feel our efforts are small, they matter deeply to Him and to our brothers and sisters. May Jehovah continue to strengthen and bless you!

[Dages]

After reading the list, I went back up the previous sentences : 
 

Quote

... lot's of the friends simply underestimate themselves...they look at the traits they do possess and often downgrade or belittle them...and in so doing...they simply miss what makes them so unique and important to Jehovah...and to the rest of us.

 

This whole post felt very good.
We are so precious in Jehovah's eyes.

It's nice to acknowledge our spiritual left-handedness, that makes us a great tool in Jehovah's hands.

Edited November 10 by Dages

[Miss Bea]

Um, my DNA…

[ChrisW]

My brother @Timl1980 thank you so much for this.  We all have these thoughts that we're not doing enough. We beat ourselves up.  I'm so glad you have your friend to talk to when things get to you. These post and comments are why I stay on this forum. We need to keep encouraging each other to keep pushing through. 🙂

We are so close to the end. 

[computerwiz]

On 11/10/2024 at 8:08 AM, Timl1980 said:

I say all this to say...when the weekends roll around...I am beat!!

 

You're not the only one!  

 

On 11/10/2024 at 8:08 AM, Timl1980 said:

But ultimately...this doesn't take away the guilt I feel for not being out with the friends on a Saturday morning...and that is simply a hard cold fact that I continue to deal with each week...no matter how hard I try to sugarcoat it with my valid reasons.

 

As humans, the hardest thing for us to achieve is balance.  Physically, emotionally, spiritually, etc.  I'm pretty sure I've said that before here, and this won't be the last time I say it either.

 

Fight or flight - there's no in between.

 

Do or do not - no in between.

 

Can or can't - no in between

 

Etc. etc.

 

But the reality is there CAN be balance.  You don't have to be all or none.  I am learning the same thing, but from the opposite direction.  I am learning that its okay to just sleep in on a rainy day.  I'm learning it's okay to miss a Saturday here and there.  I'm learning I need to have more days of rest & recharge than I used to need when I was in my 20s.  And ESPECIALLY after COVID....my energy & recovery is not what it was before.

 

Its been mentioned to pioneers before, that you need to put fuel in your tank to keep on going.  You can't just keep going and going and not expect to break down...

 

And your balance is different than my balance.  Remember, the congregation is a body.  We all play different roles.  Some may seem "greater", some seem "lesser", but ALL contribute to the full function of the body.

 

On 11/10/2024 at 8:08 AM, Timl1980 said:

My ability to speak up and give an informal witness, no matter the situation...is something I take for granted...something I dismiss as if it's of little account!

 

Now this is YOUR strength!  I sure can't do that.  I am working on it, so I can feel better on the Saturdays I take off.  

 

But my wife's dad will tell you about a certain offshore cook that was shy, and all he could muster up was to give a little tract to my wife's grandpa. The brother didn't have a long discussion, fancy presentation, etc.  Just wanted to share a little tract with her grandfather 60+ years ago.  That little tract brought a whole family into the truth.  The brother was probably embarrassed that that's all he did.  Probably ashamed he couldn't speak up more.  But that was ALL HE NEEDED TO DO.  And boom....brought a whole family, 3 generations worth, into the truth.

 

So never underestimate your efforts.  Never underestimate how a little splash of a pebble, a little seed of truth, can grow into something so big and wonderful!  You may never get to see your results....her grandpa never found that brother.  But boy did he have an impact!!  

[jdcarlson]

My Dear Brother Tim,

 

Thank you for your heartfelt post. 

 

It was very encouraging.

 

I have also had "confused" feelings for quite some time.

 

I am 80. I first started talking to householders at age 5 (my mother had already taught me to read). In the 75 years since then, I have enjoyed wonderful privileges in Jehvah's organization (including temporary Bethel Service, Department overseer at Circuit Assemblies and District Conventions, Pioneering for seven years, Serving as an Elder, etc.).

 

Now I have an "independent living" apartment in a retirement complex, and my wife is in the Alzheimers' ward at the same complex. As some posters have mentioned, I have also battled COVID personally, as has my wife (in the Alzheimers' ward).

 

I can especially resonate with your comment about missing the camaraderie with others in the Congregation. I just completed a six month regemin of radiation treatment for prostate cancer. With radition treatment, you do not feel anything as the machine is going around you. But, it totally takes away all of your energy. Some days I have a very difficult time just getting out of bed in the morning. Frequently I do not have the engergy to walk to the dining room here for lunch.

 

Many times I cannot make it to the Kingdom Hall, but have to use ZOOM to get the meetings. I cannot do field service or return visits. My son periodically gives me not-at-home addresses. Then I can write letters, etc.

 

I am ashamed at the low level of my theocratic activity in recent years.

 

But, your post was very encouraging. You have made me realize that, even if my activity is not what it was 50 years ago, there are still worthwhile qualities that Jehovah might notice.

 

I liked your comment about the individual who received one tract, and the whole family learned the truth. There was an older sister (now dead) in our congregation who told me several times that somehow she received a tract about The Trinity (shortly after WWII). That one tract convinced her about the truth. Her whole family were faithful to Jehovah. Her son served as an elder for many years.

 

Thank you for the encouragement.

 

Jim

 

 

[Mike047]

Many of us, are finding things difficult, these days. As an older one, I do not do what I did, and making comparisons on who you were in the past does not help. We all pray that Jehovah will give is the power to continue not just to serve, but to do so with rejoicing. To feel wholly part of his grand organisation. As the psalmist said "Do not cast me off in my old age; Do not abandon me when my strength fails". (Ps 71:9) He also said how he always wanted to be close to his heavenly father: "Do not cast me out from your presence; And do not take your holy spirit away from me." (Ps 51:11)

 

We may only give a crumb of service but it receives a bagful of praise from Jehovah, if we keep our loyal love.

 

 

[Timl1980]

On 11/10/2024 at 11:59 AM, Ishaya said:

This reminds me of an experience I recently had when I walked with a sister in the field service.

This sister is rarely seen in field service so it was  really a privilege for me to walk with her the day she came 😄

 

From our conversation I got to learn a lot about what she Is going through and how she is working really hard to stand firm in her loyalty to Jehovah in the trials she was experiencing despite no one noticing it.

 

I realized that this sister may not be opportuned to always be in field service like some of us,but she is  very unique in her display of Loyalty to Jehovah.

I almost gave way to tears when I learnt this about her.

 

This, my dear brother...is exactly what I was talking about. If we took more time to find out about our brothers and sisters strengths...if we had just one conversation per meeting with just one of the friends who we might not know very well...we would soon discover that our congregations are filled to the brim and overflowing with positive traits and hidden feats of strength...we would, in effect, be getting a tiny peek into what Jehovah, his Son and all the angels witness on a daily basis. Just think of how that could change our perspective when we inevitably see the undesirable traits in our brothers and sisters...it's much easier to put up with our brothers and sisters when we can counteract every negative thought about someone with two or three positive thoughts about that person.

 

On 11/10/2024 at 12:20 PM, dljbsp said:

Thank you, Brother Tim, for sharing this heartfelt experience and the thoughtful counsel from your friend. It’s a powerful reminder that Jehovah values each of our unique qualities, and sometimes what we overlook in ourselves can be a real asset in His service. Your willingness to be open about your struggles and the way you’re working through them with Jehovah’s help is truly encouraging. It’s comforting to know that even when we feel our efforts are small, they matter deeply to Him and to our brothers and sisters. May Jehovah continue to strengthen and bless you!

 

Thank you! It's not easy to look in the mirror every morning and see all the egg on my face...but that doesn't change the fact that it's there...that it exists...and that other people can see it as well. Knowing this is one thing...acknowledging it publicly is another...but doing something about it is the only thing that truly matters. It sucks knowing that even my best efforts often fail miserably...but it's such a comfort knowing that Jehovah can see through that black cloud of failure and see the honesty and the truth behind my intentions...HE understands I am trying...and that's what allows me to keep trying...because with every exhausted swing...I am one inch closer to the New System...one inch closer to being able to rest...and from what I see around me; all the friends feel the same way...even if they can't express it in the same manner.

 

On 11/10/2024 at 12:33 PM, Dages said:

This whole post felt very good.
We are so precious in Jehovah's eyes.

It's nice to acknowledge our spiritual left-handedness, that makes us a great tool in Jehovah's hands.

 

Thank you, both of those statements are so true! Even our ability to be used by Jehovah is in itself such a beautiful trait that all of us underestimate sometimes...it's true that Jehovah can use anyone...but he desires to use us as positive influences on our brothers and sisters...and just being the conduit that Jehovah uses to reach out and touch another human being around us is incredibly moving and so personal. 

 

On 11/10/2024 at 4:00 PM, Miss Bea said:

Um, my DNA…

 

Yes, my dear sister...our DNA does indeed make us unique. Even though 99% of it may be the same as everyone else...that 1% not only identifies you as being different in a way that other humans can identify...but it's uniquely beautiful to our Creator. He looks at you and sees each and every memory...each and every moment of your life experience that has produced the person you see in the mirror each morning. To him, that person still exists even if you should pass away in this system. To Jehovah...you will still be as you were in the absolute prime of your life. He looks at each of us and sees the person we will be once sin and death are wiped from existence and perfection is restored...provided we stay faithful and hang on...for just a little longer!

 

On 11/10/2024 at 5:24 PM, ChrisW said:

My brother @Timl1980 thank you so much for this.  We all have these thoughts that we're not doing enough. We beat ourselves up.  I'm so glad you have your friend to talk to when things get to you. These post and comments are why I stay on this forum. We need to keep encouraging each other to keep pushing through. 🙂

We are so close to the end. 

 

Thank you, you are absolutely correct...we all have these thoughts...and I also find comfort and the ability to keep going through the friends and the posts and comments on this site...they are encouraging and upbuilding...and generally full of insight and excellent reminders. It's not always easy to be encouraging...especially when you yourself feel like you have just run out of steam. But when you look around you at the meeting or out in service and see just one of your brothers or sisters who have that spark of enthusiasm...that's when it's up to you to recognize it for what it is...Jehovah's holy spirit...and that's when you pluck that spark off your brother or sister and let it fill your heart and mind...and then breathe life into it! Even if no one else joins in... you have had the privilege of being used by Jehovah himself...and that is a beautiful thing.

 

On 11/13/2024 at 3:04 PM, computerwiz said:

You're not the only one!  

 

I know, it's sad to see how many of the friends look drained at every meeting...but it makes it that more encouraging...because at least we're all there...even if it's just on Zoom.

 

On 11/13/2024 at 3:04 PM, computerwiz said:

As humans, the hardest thing for us to achieve is balance.  Physically, emotionally, spiritually, etc.  I'm pretty sure I've said that before here, and this won't be the last time I say it either.

 

How very true...and it had better not be the last time you say it...I'm just a moron by myself...I NEED constant reminders from Jehovah...and that's what they are...because you didn't come up with this by yourself...you learned it from opening the Bible and listening to Jehovah. 

 

On 11/13/2024 at 3:04 PM, computerwiz said:

Its been mentioned to pioneers before, that you need to put fuel in your tank to keep on going.  You can't just keep going and going and not expect to break down...

 

And your balance is different than my balance.  Remember, the congregation is a body.  We all play different roles.  Some may seem "greater", some seem "lesser", but ALL contribute to the full function of the body.

 

 

Both very valid points...we can't just continue to drive a car without fuel...and even though we will certainly break down by continuing to go on and on...I would rather break down in Jehovah's service than experience "lot rot"...a condition in which a car sits on a car lot for years and all of its parts start to rust and degrade from disuse. We need fuel...and a balance between use...and overuse. And to your point...there is nothing wrong with our roles changing over time...it's staying humble and acknowledging that we might be best used in a different role than what we are accustomed to that shows we are still a part of the "body".

 

On 11/13/2024 at 3:04 PM, computerwiz said:

So never underestimate your efforts.  Never underestimate how a little splash of a pebble, a little seed of truth, can grow into something so big and wonderful!  You may never get to see your results....her grandpa never found that brother.  But boy did he have an impact!!  

 

I am trying to keep in mind that I don't have to be a jackhammer...I am okay with being the toy hammer that a child gets in his first tool set. 😂 I'm just the tool... (I'm the tool I said...not a tool 🤣)...and Jehovah will use me in any way he sees fit. I'm fine with that...I just have to keep reminding myself it.

 

18 hours ago, jdcarlson said:

I am 80. I first started talking to householders at age 5 (my mother had already taught me to read). In the 75 years since then, I have enjoyed wonderful privileges in Jehvah's organization (including temporary Bethel Service, Department overseer at Circuit Assemblies and District Conventions, Pioneering for seven years, Serving as an Elder, etc.).

 

See...this is exactly what I am talking about. You have had a lifetime of service to Jehovah...and no matter what...that record of service is etched in Jehovah's memory. He was able to use your uniqueness the same way the sunshine illuminates a beautiful prism...the effects created are different facets come to life with a glow that affects everyone viewing it. 

 

18 hours ago, jdcarlson said:

I can especially resonate with your comment about missing the camaraderie with others in the Congregation. I just completed a six month regemin of radiation treatment for prostate cancer. With radition treatment, you do not feel anything as the machine is going around you. But, it totally takes away all of your energy. Some days I have a very difficult time just getting out of bed in the morning. Frequently I do not have the engergy to walk to the dining room here for lunch.

 

Many times I cannot make it to the Kingdom Hall, but have to use ZOOM to get the meetings. I cannot do field service or return visits. My son periodically gives me not-at-home addresses. Then I can write letters, etc.

 

And this is why I try to post here when I can. I have noticed a lot of the friends that come here are in very difficult circumstances...and they are just looking for that extra oomph that gets your spiritual heart pumping...and you will most certainly find it here. I was recently reviewing some posts by Hannah, @TheKid23, and even though her situation was dealt with, and she has since moved on...the amount of people who understood her situation and commiserated with her was very faith strengthening...as it is with all the rest of the brothers and sisters who take the time to post on here. If you were to allow negative thinking to creep in and start to overwhelm you based of your current circumstances...I can imagine how fast a person could spiral. But you have such an awesome way to counteract that...accessing all those wonderful memories. I understand you may feel alone at times...but you are most definitely not. Every single time you access one of those happy memories...every time you think about a joyful time with your dear wife...Jehovah is right there beside you, my brother. He is walking with you...after all...he was already there while it was happening. When you share those memories with all of us...when you take the time and effort to write down how doing things for Jehovah made you feel...you allow the rest of us to relive it with you. 

 

18 hours ago, jdcarlson said:

I am ashamed at the low level of my theocratic activity in recent years.

 

You have nothing to be ashamed of...you walked with angels...you were and still a fellow worker with Jehovah...it's just that your role has changed...and Jehovah is allowing you to rest. Imagine in the New System when the rest of your generation is resurrected...you and your wife will be surrounded by all your old pioneer partners...and you will have untold eras to explore the New System and everything in it. Relax, my brother...Jehovah has everything in hand. It's your job to be an example to the rest of us...and we are so close to the end...just do what you can...and allow your happy memories to take over...after all...we serve the happy God. 

 

17 hours ago, Mike047 said:

Many of us, are finding things difficult, these days. As an older one, I do not do what I did, and making comparisons on who you were in the past does not help.

 

17 hours ago, Mike047 said:

We may only give a crumb of service but it receives a bagful of praise from Jehovah, if we keep our loyal love.

 

Again, very true. I hear these same sentiments echoed over and over again...and honestly...this is what we all need...reminder after reminder...because we are all idiots on our own...without Jehovah...we are nothing. And on top of how badly we put ourselves down...Satan and his system wants to grind us into pulp...he wants to poison our spiritual heart...to pollute ourselves with his thinking. That's why I will never quit posting my feelings and thoughts in this system...I need a way to fight...and this is an outlet for me...and so many others...whether we realize it or not.

 

Thank you to all who commented...and may all of continue to step up to the front line...stand shoulder to shoulder...and face our enemy squarely...because it won't be much longer now!