Wednesday, December 24 “Be strong, . . . for I am with you,” declares Jehovah of armies.​—Hag. 2:4.

[Áine]

Wednesday, December 24

“Be strong, . . . for I am with you,” declares Jehovah of armies.—Hag. 2:4.

 

When the Jews who left Babylon arrived in Jerusalem, it was not long before they were affected by unstable economic and political conditions as well as opposition. Some therefore found it hard to focus on rebuilding Jehovah’s temple. Thus, Jehovah commissioned two prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, to rekindle the people’s zeal, which proved to be effective. (Hag. 1:1; Zech. 1:1) Nearly 50 years later, however, the Jews again reached a low point. Ezra, a skilled copyist of the Law, then came from Babylon to Jerusalem to encourage God’s people to give priority to true worship. (Ezra 7:1, 6) Just as the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah helped God’s people in the past to continue to trust in Jehovah during opposition, they can help us today to remain confident in Jehovah’s support despite life’s uncertainties.—Prov. 22:19. w23.1114-15 ¶2-3

[Jones Nogueira]

When problems, fatigue, or pressures discourage us, we need to remember that Jehovah is still with us.

 

Comment: Jehovah knows the limitations and discouragement of his servants. When facing opposition and difficulties, the Jews needed firm reminders that Jehovah was with them. Through faithful prophets, He rekindled the people’s zeal and showed that His work does not depend solely on human strength. The message “I am with you” reinforces that divine support never fails, even when enthusiasm weakens.

 

Practical Lesson: When problems, fatigue, or pressures discourage us, we need to remember that Jehovah is still with us. Seeking encouragement in the Scriptures and in spiritual provisions strengthens our faith and helps us keep worship in first place. Trusting in Jehovah’s support gives us the courage to persevere and continue serving with zeal, even in difficult times.

[dljbsp]

Jehovah did not say that the work would be easy. He did not say there would be no problems. Instead, He promised something better—His presence.

 

Strength does not come from having no trouble. Strength comes from knowing Jehovah is with us.

 

Think of our young ones, school can feel hard. Kids say unkind things.
Homework can pile up. You might feel small or unsure.

 

Jehovah’s words still apply. When you try to do what is right, even when it feels hard, Jehovah is with you. Isaiah 41:10

 

That makes you strong, even if you feel nervous inside.

 

It is not being the biggest or loudest. Real strength is choosing to obey Jehovah and trusting that He stays close to you.