Thursday, February 19 Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you.​—Heb. 13:17.

[Helen Highwater]

Thursday, February 19

Be obedient to those who are taking the lead among you.—Heb. 13:17.

 

When receiving direction, elders need to read it carefully and then apply it to the best of their ability. They receive guidance not only on how to present meeting parts and how to offer prayers for the congregation but also on how to care for Christ’s sheep. Elders who follow organizational direction help those under their care to feel secure and loved. When we receive direction from the elders, we should follow it willingly. By doing so, we will make it easier for those taking the lead to do their work. The Bible encourages us to be obedient and submissive to those who take the lead. (Heb. 13:7, 17) That can be a challenge at times. Why? Because these men are imperfect. However, if we focus on their negative qualities rather than on their positive traits, we will, in effect, be aiding our enemies. In what way? We will be undermining trust in God’s organization. w24.04 10 ¶11-12

[dljbsp]

Trust is not proven when everything feels smooth. It is proven when criticism rises and we remain steady.

 

Remaining loyal to Jehovah’s organization is not about defending men. It is about recognizing Jehovah’s hand in the arrangement and choosing to stay close to it. That choice strengthens us more than any argument ever could.