Ɔkpá Ohi ku Ɔkpá ku Ōjila ku Oyeeyi mla Uklɔ Ku Alɔ
© 2025 Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania
ƆYA ƆMƐHƆ 5-11
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 12
Ō Ceyitikwu Yuklɔ Lɔfu Lɔfu Tiile
w16.06 30 ¶6
A Godly Quality More Precious Than Diamonds
Some of Jehovah’s servants may find themselves in situations where earning enough for necessities seems very difficult. Rather than look for an easy but dishonest way out, they strive to work hard and be diligent. They thus demonstrate that they value God’s superlative qualities, including honesty, more than anything material.—Prov. 12:24; Eph. 4:28.
w15 2/1 5 ¶4-6
How to Enjoy Hard Work
That last question is especially good to think about, for work is most satisfying when we see how it benefits other people. Jesus himself said: “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving.” (Acts 20:35) In addition to those who benefit directly from our services—such as customers and employers—there are others who benefit from our hard work. These include members of our household and those in need.
Members of our household. When a family head works hard to provide for members of his household, he benefits them in at least two ways. First, he makes sure that they have the physical necessities of life—food, clothing, and shelter. He thus fulfills his God-given responsibility to “provide for those who are his own.” (1 Timothy 5:8) Second, a diligent breadwinner teaches by example the importance of hard work. “My father is a great example of someone who has a good work ethic,” says Shane, quoted in the preceding article. “He is an honest man who has worked hard his whole life, the majority of it as a carpenter. From his example, I’ve learned the value of working with your hands, building things that will have practical use for other people.”
Those in need. The apostle Paul advised Christians to “do hard work . . . so that [they] may have something to share with someone in need.” (Ephesians 4:28) Indeed, when we work hard to provide for ourselves and our family, we may also be in a position to help those who are less fortunate. (Proverbs 3:27) So hard work can enable us to experience the greater happiness of giving.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
ijwyp article 95 ¶10-11
How Resilient Am I?
● Put your problem in perspective. Learn to distinguish between major problems and minor events. The Bible says: “A fool immediately shows his annoyance, but the shrewd man overlooks an insult.” (Proverbs 12:16) Not all problems need to consume you.
“In school, kids complained about trivial things in an overly dramatic way. Then they got feedback from their friends on social media—and that would kindle their fire even more, limiting their ability to put their problems in perspective.”—Joanne.
ƆYA ƆMƐHƆ 12-18
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 13
A Hii Cɛ Lɛ ‘Ɔla Ku Acobɔbiipu’ A Kóō Pla Uwɔ ŋ
it-2 196 ¶2-3
Lamp
Other Figurative Uses. What a person depends upon to light his way is symbolized by a lamp. With such a figure the proverb contrasts the righteous and the wicked, saying: “The very light of the righteous ones will rejoice; but the lamp of the wicked ones—it will be extinguished.” (Pr 13:9) The light of the righteous continually becomes more brilliant, but however brilliantly the lamp of the wicked appears to shine and however prosperous his way may seem as a consequence, God will see to it that he ends up in darkness, where his foot will certainly stumble. Such an outcome is ahead for the person calling down evil on his father and mother.—Pr 20:20.
One’s ‘lamp being extinguished’ also means that there is no future for him. Another proverb says: “There will prove to be no future for anyone bad; the very lamp of wicked people will be extinguished.”—Pr 24:20.
w12 7/15 12 ¶3
Serve the God of Freedom
3 If Satan could induce two perfect humans—not to mention a number of spirit creatures—to reject God’s sovereignty, he could deceive us too. His strategy remains much the same. He tries to mislead us into thinking that God’s standards are burdensome and rob us of fun and excitement. (1 John 5:3) That thinking can exert a lot of power if we are repeatedly exposed to it. “Bad association greatly influenced me, especially because I was afraid of having a different opinion from my peers,” said a 24-year-old sister who had engaged in sexual immorality. Perhaps you have experienced similar peer pressure.
w04 7/15 31 ¶6
“Everyone Shrewd Will Act With Knowledge”
A prudent and upright person who acts with true knowledge will be blessed. Solomon assures us: “The righteous is eating to the satisfaction of his soul, but the belly of the wicked ones will be empty.” (Proverbs 13:25) Jehovah knows what is good for us in any area of life—our family affairs, our relationship with others, our ministry, or when we are being disciplined. And by wisely applying the counsel found in his Word, we will unquestionably enjoy the best way of life.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
it-2 276 ¶2
Love
Love can be misguided. For these reasons, it is evident that a person can have real, properly directed love only by seeking and following God’s spirit and the knowledge that comes from His Word. For example, a parent may have affection for his child. But he may let that love deteriorate or he may be misguided because of sentimentality, giving the child everything and denying him nothing. He may not exercise his parental authority in giving discipline and at times actual chastisement. (Pr 22:15) Such supposed love may actually be family pride, which is selfishness. The Bible says such a person is exercising, not love, but hate, because he is not taking the course that will save his child’s life.—Pr 13:24; 23:13, 14.
ƆYA ƆMƐHƆ 19-25
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 14
Gbɛla Lipu Lipu Lɛyikwu Ɔdā Nɛ A Géē Ya Eko Nɛ Ɔdā Amiya Le Ya
Oyeeyi A Kóō Jɛ Uwɔ Eyī
10 Ekoohi, alɔ i gē ci aɔdobɔbi ŋma ō ya gla ŋ. Aɔdā nōo ba nyā mafu ku ɛlā nyā wɛ ɔkwɛyi. Odee bɛɛka amiya nōo gē ya abɔyi uwa, ōcē nōo gē tu ɔwɛ ɛga nɛ alɔ lā, unu amāŋ ɛfú ō kpo. Amáŋ eko nɛ aɔdā ɛgɛnyā le ya, alɔ lɔfu ceyitikwu ō lɛ ogbotu ɛgɛ nōó tɔɔtɛ gla a klla le wi ŋma aɔdā amiya ɔɔma, ŋma lɛ ō lɛyitaajɛ lɛ ɔ́da néē je ō nyɛɛ ŋma ɔwɛ abɔɔ, amāŋ ɔ́da nɛ aigɔmɛnti je a. (Uróm 13:1, 5-7) Ó tɔɔtɛ ō ya otutu taajɛ ku aɔdā acigili nōo lɔfu ya, ohigbu ɛnyā alɔ cika ō lɛyitaajɛ lɛ ɔwɛ nɛ igɔmɛnti gē mafu lɛ alɔ nōo géē ta alɔ abɔ ō ya otutu taajɛ a. Ocabɔ mafu, ó géē cɛgbá ku alɔ lɛ aodee bɛɛka eŋkpɔ amāŋ ɔdole nōó gáā biya fiya ŋ, mla ɛcí nɛ alɔ lɔfu gwa.
11 Ɔdi nɛ alɔ lɔfu ya ɔdaŋ ka ōcē nɛ ɔcɛ lɔfu kpo yɔ i nyila ɔwɛ ɛga nɛ alɔ lā a? Alɔ cika ō lɛyitaajɛ lɛ ɔwɛ nɛ igɔmɛnti gē mafu lɛ alɔ, bɛɛka ō bēē na abɔ, ō tu ligbo ŋma ɛgiyi ācɛ, ō bi ɔdā ō kla ɛnwu, mla ō je ɔcɛ ta ɛga ɛyɛɛyi ɔdaŋ ka ó lɛ ōcē nɛ ɔcɛ ɔhá lɔfu kpo. Ɔdaŋ ku alɔ ya aɔdā nōo ba nyā, alɔ gē mafu ku ɛhi ka oyeeyi nɛ Ɔwɔico je lɛ alɔ a jɛ alɔ eyī.
12 Eko nɛ aɔdā amiya le ya acigili, ekoohi alɔ gē po aɛlā ōhī ŋma ɛgiyi aɔkpa, aaladogbe, amāŋ ɔka ŋma ipu uredio amāŋ TV nōó wɛ ɔkwɛyi ŋ. Ikɔkɔ nɛ alɔ géē kpɔtuce “ɔdā dóódu” nɛ alɔ gē po a, alɔ cika ō jahɔ tu ɛlā nōo kpaakpa fiyɛ duu a ŋma ɛgiyi aigɔmɛnti amāŋ aidɔkitɔ. (Jé Aíita 14:15.) Ígwu Nōo Gē Leyikwu Ɔwa Ku Alɔ mla abɔ ku ɛga ō yuklɔ ku alɔ gē ya ɔdā néē ya gla, ō miyɛ aɛlā okpaakpa a gbɔbu ɛɛ néē gē da alɔ ɛgɛ nɛ alɔ lɔfu ya ōjila ku ujɔ mla uklɔ ku ɔna ō ta a. (Uhíb. 13:17) Ŋma lɛ ō yɛce ɔwɛ ō mafu nyā, alɔ gē gbo iyi alɔ mla ācɛ ɔhá. Alɔ klla lɔfu ta ācɛ ɔhá abɔ kéē gbɛla olɔhi lɛyikwu Ācɛ Ocijali Ku Ujehofa.— 1 Upít. 2:12.
Wɛ Ɔcɛ Nōo Lɛ Ɔtu Bɛɛka Usadɔku A
11 Ɛgɛnyá nɛ alɔ lɔfu mafu ɔtu ō lɛ bɛɛka Usadɔku eko nɛ ayinɛ alɔ yɔ ipu āhɔ̄ olɔnɔ néē cɛgbá otabɔ ku alɔ a? (1) Yɛce ɔwɛ o mafu. Ipu ɛdɔ āhɔ̄ ɛgɔɔma, ó cɛgbá nɛhi ku alɔ gɔbu ō piyatɔha. Lɛyitajɛ lɛ aukɔ́ nōo ŋma abɔ ku ɛga ō yuklɔ ku alɔ nōo yɔ éwo ku uwɔ a. (Uhíb. 13:17) Ŋma eko teeko, anyakwɔcɛ ku ujɔ cika ō bēē leyi yɛ aukɔ́ ku ɛgɛ nɛ ɔcɛ lɔfu tutu taajɛ ku amiya nōo lɔfu ya abɔyi uwa, mla ɔdā nɛ ɔcɛ lɔfu ya eko nɛ amiya nōo gē ya abɔyi uwa le ya a. (1 Ukɔ́r. 14:33, 40) (2) Mafu ɔtu ō lɛ amáŋ leyi kwɛɛcɛ. (Aíit. 22:3) Gbɛla gbɔbu ɛɛ ku a ya odee. Ya ɔdā nōo géē je ogbotu gā uwɔ ɛgɛ nōo tɔɔtɛ gla a. (3) Gbolo ce Ujehofa. Bla, ka Ujehofa dɔka ku awɔ mla ayinɛ uwɔ kóō lɛ ogbotu. Ó lɔfu ta uwɔ abɔ o ya ɛɛ ku a je otabɔ lɛ ayinɛ uwɔ ɔwɛ ku ogbotu.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
Iff ɛlā ō nwu ɔmɛ 35 ogwotu 2
Ɛgɛ Nɛ A Géē Ya Ōmiya Olɔhi A
Ubáyíbu kahinii: “Ɔ̄cɛ olohílípū ā leyī yɛ ikpó nēé gē fu ā.” (Aíita 14:15) Ɛnyā yɔ i mafu lɛ alɔ ka, gbɔbu ɛɛ ku alɔ ya ōmiya, alɔ cika ō lɛ eko taajɛ ku alɔ gbɛla tu ɔdā nɛ alɔ gáā ya a. Abɔ a yɔ i leyi yɛ ɛjɛɛji ɛlā a eyeeye a, da iyi uwɔ ɔka kahinii: ‘Ukɔ́ ku Ubáyíbu nyá tɛɛma kwu ɛlā nyā a? Ɛnyá ŋma ipu ōmiya ɛyɛɛyɛyi nyā gáā je ɛbɔ ku ɔtu gā um a? Ɛgɛnyá nɛ ōmiya ku um gáā lɛ abɔ kwu ācɛ ɔhá a? Ofiyɛ duu a, ó géē cɛ lɛ Ujehofa gweeye?’—Oblatūkíne 32:29.
Ujehofa lɛ íkwu ō da alɔ ɔdā nōo wɛ ɔdā olɔhi mla ɔdobɔbi. Eko duuma nɛ alɔ lɛ aíne mla aukɔ́ ku Ujehofa jé lɔɔlɔhi klla le miya ō yɛce ɔ, alɔ yɔ i nwu ɔtu ku alɔ jé. Ɔtu ku alɔ wɛ ɔdā nōo gē da alɔ ɔdaŋ ka odee wɛ ɔdobɔbi amāŋ ɔdā olɔhi. (Ācɛ Uróm 2:14, 15) Ɔtu nōo le nwu jé géē ta alɔ abɔ ya ōmiya olɔhi.
ƆYA ƆMƐHƆ 26–ƆYA ƆMƐHILI 1
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 15
Ta Ācɛ Ɔhá Abɔ Kéē Yɔ I Lɛ Eeye
w10 11/15 31 ¶16
We Shall Walk in Our Integrity!
16 Job was hospitable. (Job 31:31, 32) Although we may not be rich, we can “follow the course of hospitality.” (Rom. 12:13) We can share something simple with others, remembering that “better is a dish of vegetables where there is love than a manger-fed bull and hatred along with it.” (Prov. 15:17) Eating with a fellow integrity keeper in a loving atmosphere will make even a simple meal enjoyable and will surely benefit us spiritually.
w18.04 23-24 ¶16-18
Encourage One Another “All the More So”
16 It would be an error on our part if we believed that we cannot be encouraging because we are not particularly communicative. It does not take much to be a source of encouragement—perhaps no more than a warm smile when greeting someone. If there is no smile in return, it could mean that there is a problem, and just listening to the other person may bring comfort.—Jas. 1:19.
17 Henri, a young brother, was greatly distressed when his close relatives, including his father, who had been a respected elder, left the truth. Henri was encouraged by a circuit overseer who took him to a café for a cup of coffee and allowed him to open his heart. Henri realized that the only way to help his family come back to the truth was for him to persevere faithfully. He found great comfort in reading Psalm 46; Zephaniah 3:17; and Mark 10:29, 30.
18 The examples of Marthe and Henri show that we can be encouraging to a brother or a sister who is in need of comfort. King Solomon wrote: “A word spoken at the right time—how good it is! A cheerful glance makes the heart rejoice; a good report invigorates the bones.” (Prov. 15:23, 30, ftn.) Additionally, reading from The Watchtower or our website can invigorate someone who is downcast. Paul shows that singing a Kingdom song together can be a source of encouragement. He wrote: “Keep on teaching and encouraging one another with psalms, praises to God, spiritual songs sung with gratitude, singing in your hearts to Jehovah.”—Col. 3:16; Acts 16:25.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
ijwbq article 39 ¶3
Can a Christian Accept Medical Treatment?
2. Should I get a second or a third medical opinion? A “multitude of counselors” can be valuable, especially if your condition is serious.—Proverbs 15:22.
ƆYA ƆMƐHILI 2-8
AGsBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 16
Aɔka Ɛta Nōo Géē Ta Alɔ Abɔ Ō Ya Ōmiya Olɔhi
w14 1/15 19-20 ¶11-12
Making Wise Choices During Youth
11 Our greatest happiness comes from serving Jehovah. (Prov. 16:20) Jeremiah’s secretary, Baruch, apparently forgot that. At one point in time, he was no longer enjoying Jehovah’s service. Jehovah told him: “You are seeking great things for yourself. Stop seeking such things. For I am about to bring a calamity on all flesh, . . . and wherever you may go, I will grant you your life as a spoil.” (Jer. 45:3, 5) What do you think? What would have made Baruch happy—seeking great things or surviving Jerusalem’s destruction as a faithful servant of God?—Jas. 1:12.
12 One brother who found happiness in serving others is Ramiro. He states: “I come from a poor family living in a village in the Andes Mountains. So when my older brother offered to pay for my university education, it was a big opportunity. But I had recently been baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses, and I had received another offer—a pioneer invited me to preach with him in a small town. I went there, learned how to cut hair, and opened a barbershop to support myself. As we offered to teach people the Scriptures, many responded appreciatively. Later, I joined an indigenous-language congregation that had recently been formed. I have been a full-time minister for ten years now. No other profession could give me the joy I experience as I help people to study the good news in their native tongue.”
w13 9/15 17 ¶1-3
Have You Been Transformed?
ALL of us are deeply influenced by our upbringing and by our environment. We dress a certain way; we like certain foods; we behave in a certain manner. Why? In part, because of the influence of the people around us and our circumstances in life.
2 There are, however, things that are far more important than our choice of food and style of clothing. For example, we are brought up to view some things as right and acceptable but to reject other things as wrong and unacceptable. Many such matters are personal and vary from individual to individual. Our choices may even reflect the proddings of our conscience. The Bible acknowledges that often “people of the nations that do not have law do by nature the things of the law.” (Rom. 2:14) But does this mean that as long as there is no clearly stated law from God, we can just follow the ways and standards that we are brought up with and that are common in our area?
3 There are at least two important reasons why that is not so for Christians. First, the Bible reminds us: “There exists a way that is upright before a man, but the ways of death are the end of it afterward.” (Prov. 16:25) Because of our imperfect nature, we humans do not have the full ability to determine what is truly beneficial for us to guide our steps perfectly. (Prov. 28:26; Jer. 10:23) Second, the Bible shows that trends and standards of the world are manipulated and controlled by none other than Satan, “the god of this system of things.” (2 Cor. 4:4; 1 John 5:19) Therefore, if we want Jehovah’s blessing and approval, we need to heed the admonition found at Romans 12:2.—Read.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
it-1 629
Discipline
Results From Heeding and From Ignoring. The wicked, the fools, or the morally worthless ones show their hatred of Jehovah’s discipline by rejecting it completely. (Ps 50:16, 17; Pr 1:7) The bad results that come from such foolishness constitutes further discipline, often severe chastisement. As the proverb puts it: “The discipline of the foolish ones is foolishness.” (Pr 16:22) They may bring upon themselves poverty, disgrace, sickness, and even untimely death. The history of the Israelites illustrates how great the loss can be. They paid no attention to the discipline in the form of reproof and correction expressed through the prophets. They were heedless of the discipline in the form of Jehovah’s withholding his protection and blessing. Finally, they experienced the severe discipline announced beforehand—conquest and exile.—Jer 2:30; 5:3; 7:28; 17:23; 32:33; Ho 7:12-16; 10:10; Zep 3:2.
ƆYA ƆMƐHILI 9-15
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 17
Jɔɔnyɛ Ɛbɔ Ipu Ō Ba Tɔha Ku Ɔba Mla Ɔnyā Ō Lɛ Ku Uwɔ
g 9/14 11 ¶2
How to Let Go of Resentment
Examine yourself honestly. The Bible acknowledges that some people are “prone to anger” and “disposed to rage.” (Proverbs 29:22) Does that describe you? Ask yourself: ‘Am I inclined toward bitterness? How easily am I offended? Do I tend to make issues over minor matters?’ The Bible says that “the one who keeps harping on a matter separates close friends.” (Proverbs 17:9; Ecclesiastes 7:9) That can happen in a marriage as well. So if you have a tendency toward resentment, ask yourself, ‘Could I be more patient with my spouse?’—Bible principle: 1 Peter 4:8.
w08 5/1 10 ¶6-11 ¶1
Solving Problems
1. Set a time to discuss the issue. “For everything there is an appointed time, . . . a time to keep quiet and a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7) As demonstrated in the altercation quoted earlier, some problems may evoke strong emotions. If that happens, have the self-control to call a temporary halt—to “keep quiet”—before tempers flare. You can save your relationship from much damage if you heed the Bible’s advice: “Starting a quarrel is like a leak in a dam, so stop it before a fight breaks out.”—Proverbs 17:14, New Century Version.
However, there is also “a time to speak.” Problems, like weeds, flourish when neglected. So do not ignore the issue, hoping it will just go away. If you call a halt to a discussion, show respect for your mate by picking a time in the near future when you will talk about the problem. Such a promise can help both of you apply the spirit of the Bible’s counsel: “Let the sun not set with you in a provoked state.” (Ephesians 4:26) Of course, you then need to follow through on your promise.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
it-1 790 ¶2
Eye
Gestures by means of the eyes are very expressive of the individual’s feelings. They may show pity or lack of it (De 19:13); they may ‘wink’ or ‘blink’ in derision, or in scheming insincerity. (Ps 35:19; Pr 6:13; 16:30) One who does not want to observe or who does not desire to carry out an act for another may be spoken of as shutting or hiding his eyes. (Mt 13:15; Pr 28:27) The stupid one is said to have his eyes “at the extremity of the earth,” wandering here and there without any fixed object, his thoughts being everywhere except where they ought to be. (Pr 17:24) Even a person’s health, vigor, or state of happiness is manifested by the appearance of his eyes. (1Sa 14:27-29; De 34:7; Job 17:7; Ps 6:7; 88:9) King Jehoshaphat addressed Jehovah: “Our eyes are toward you.”—2Ch 20:12.
ƆYA ƆMƐHILI 16-22
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 18
Je Ɔtu Ō Tu Kwu Ɔtu Lɛ Ācɛ Nōo Yɔ I Doōcē A
Ijeeyi Yɔ̄ Ī Dɛ̄gba Gbōō
17 Gbɛla gbɔbu ɛɛ ku a kɛla. Ɔdaŋ ku alɔ i leyi kwɛɛcɛ ŋ, alɔ lɔfu ya ācɛ agbe mla aɛlā nɛ alɔ gē ka a. Ubáyíbu kahinii: “Ɛlā nɛ̄ ɔ̄cɛ gē ka í lɛ eyī yɛ ɔ́ ŋ́ mā, gē lɔfú yá ɔ̄cɛ ágbe bɛ̄ɛka ɔkpacaŋ́gelī ā glá. Ɛlā ō ka ipú íjééyī ɛmɛɛma ā gē gbɔtū nɛɛ á.” (Aíit. 12:18) Alɔ gē tabɔ ya ku alɔ ba ɛbɔ ɔdaŋ ku alɔ lɛ abɔ ci ō ka awanda lɛyikwu inyileyi ku ācɛ ɔhá. (Aíit. 20:19) Ɔdaŋ ku alɔ dɔka ku ɛlā nɛ alɔ gē ka a kóō ta ācɛ ɔtu kwu ɔtu nōó gáā ya uwa agbe ŋ, alɔ cika ō jé Ɛlā ku ɔwɔico eko doodu klla gbɛla tu ɔ. (Ulúk. 6:45) Ɔdaŋ ku alɔ gbɛla tu ɔdā nɛ Ubáyíbu ka a, aɛlā ku alɔ lɔfu je piya ‘ijeeyi nōo ŋma eŋkpɔ ɔkpá’ nōo gē ta ācɛ ɔhá ɔtu kwu ɔtu.—Aíit. 18:4.
mrt article 19 box
How to Deal With a Sudden Health Problem
Be a good listener. One of the best ways to help your friend is to listen when he wants to talk. Do not feel that you have to respond to everything he says. Often it is enough just to listen. Try to keep an open mind and avoid judging. Do not assume you know how your friend feels, especially if his illness is not outwardly noticeable.—Proverbs 11:2.
Speak positively. You may not know what to say, but saying even a few words to acknowledge your friend’s situation will likely be more comforting than saying nothing at all. If you are at a loss for words, try saying something simple yet heartfelt, such as “I’m not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care.” Avoid using expressions like “It could always be worse” or “At least you don’t have . . . “
You can show your personal interest by learning about the illness your friend has. He will likely appreciate your effort to understand what he is going through, and your comments will be more meaningful. (Proverbs 18:13) However, be careful not to offer unsolicited advice.
Offer practical help. Instead of assuming that you know how to help, ask what you can do. Remember, though, that your friend may not admit that he needs help, because he does not want to be a burden. If that happens, try suggesting something practical you could do, such as shopping, cleaning, or some other task.—Galatians 6:2.
Do not give up. As your friend copes with his illness, he may at times cancel plans with you or not feel like talking with you. Be patient and understanding. Continue to offer the support he needs.—Proverbs 18:24.
wp23.1 14 ¶3-15 ¶1
How to Help Those With Mental Health Challenges
“Speak consolingly.”—1 THESSALONIANS 5:14.
Your friend may be anxious, or he may struggle with feelings of worthlessness. By reassuring him that you care, you can be comforting and encouraging, even if you do not know exactly what to say.
“A true friend shows love at all times.”—PROVERBS 17:17.
Offer practical help. Instead of assuming that you know how to help, ask what you can do. If your friend has a hard time expressing what he needs, try suggesting something practical you could do together, such as going for a walk. Or you could offer to help with shopping, cleaning, or some other task.—Galatians 6:2.
“Be patient.”—1 THESSALONIANS 5:14.
Your friend may not always be ready to talk. Reassure your friend that you will gladly listen when he does feel like talking. Because of his illness, your friend may say or do things that hurt you. He may cancel plans with you or become irritable. Be patient and understanding as you offer the support he needs.—Proverbs 18:24.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
it-2 271-272
Lot, I
The casting of lots is an ancient custom for deciding a question at issue. The method used was to cast pebbles or small bits or tablets of wood or of stone into the gathered folds of a garment, “the lap,” or into a vase, and then to shake them. The one whose lot fell out or was drawn out was the one chosen. The lot, like the oath, implied a prayer with it. Prayer was either expressed or implied, and Jehovah’s intervention was sought and anticipated. Lot (Heb., goh·ralʹ) is used literally and figuratively with the thought of “share” or “portion.”—Jos 15:1; Ps 16:5; 125:3; Isa 57:6; Jer 13:25.
Uses. Proverbs 16:33 says: “Into the lap the lot is cast down, but every decision by it is from Jehovah.” In Israel the proper use of a lot was to end a controversy: “The lot puts even contentions to rest, and it separates even the mighty from one another.” (Pr 18:18) It was not used for sport, play, or gambling. There were no bets, wagers, or stakes—no losses or winnings. It was not done to enrich the temple or the priests, nor was it done for charity. Contrariwise, the Roman soldiers did have selfish gain in mind when, as foretold at Psalm 22:18, they cast lots for Jesus’ garments.—Mt 27:35.
ƆYA ƆMƐHILI 23-29
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 19
Wɛ Ɛnɛɛnɛ Oklobiya Amāŋ Ɔncɛnya Ku Ayinɛ Uwɔ
Ɛgɛ Nɛ Alɔ Géē Ya Ku Ihɔtu Nɛ Alɔ Lɛ Lɛ Iyi Alɔ A Kóō Yɔ I Lɔfu Tōōtɔ̄ɔ̄ A
16 Leyi ku uwɔ kwu uce ō ya olɔhi ku ayinɛ uwɔ, ó wɛ ɛga néē gē ya bɔbi a ŋ. Leyi yɛ ocabɔ nyā. Alɔ je ɔ ku a ya ipu ōjila éyi mla ígwu ku ayinɛ ōhī. Aa jɔɔnyɛ iyi aa lɔɔlɔhi anu ó ŋmɛyi ku ōjila a, a le miya ō lɛ ifoto je tɔha mla uwa. Ku ɛlā ɔkwɛyi a, a je ifoto a fiyɛ ɛpa ohigbu eko nɛ aku aflɛyi a i gáā heyifuu ŋ. Babanya, a lɛ aifoto ɛta. Amáŋ ipu éyi ku aifoto a, a gáā le má ka ó lɛ ɔyinɛ éyi nōó yɔ i yɛhɛ ŋ. Ɔdi nɛ a gáā ya mla ifoto ɔɔma a? A géē je ɔ nya, ohigbu ku a lɛ aifoto ɔhá nɛ ɛjɛɛji ācɛ ipu ígwu a kwu ɔyinɛ nɔnyilɔ a yɔ i yɛhɛ.
17 Alɔ lɔfu lɛ aifoto nɛ alɔ gbotu a miya mla aɔdā ōhī nɛ alɔ gē blakwu ɔ a. Igbalɛwa, alɔ gē blakwu ɛnɛɛnɛ eko nɛ alɔ bi yɔ tɔha mla ayinɛ alɔ a. Amáŋ a jé ŋ, ipu aōjila nɛ alɔ lɛ tɔha mla ayinɛ alɔ nyā, ɔyinɛ éyi kɛla amāŋ ya odee ɛ̄nɛ̄ o he alɔ ɔtu ŋ. Alɔ cika ō yɔ i gbɛla tu ɛlā ɔɔma nɛɛ? Alɔ cika ō ceyitikwu ku alɔ hii blakwu ɔdobɔbi nɛ ɔyinɛ alɔ ɔɔma ya alɔ a ŋ, ɛgɛ nɛ alɔ géē je ifoto ɛ̄nɛ̄ o he alɔ ɔtu ŋ ma nya a. (Aíit. 19:11; Āfi. 4:32) Alɔ lɔfu je inyileyi nɛ ayinɛ alɔ ya a mlanyi, ohigbu ku alɔ gē blakwu aɔdā olɔhi alɛwa néē ya eko nɛ alɔ ge yɔ tɔha mla uwa a. Aɔdā olɔhi néē ya mla ɛnɛɛnɛ eko nɛ alɔ jɔɔnyɛ ō yɔ tɔha mla uwa a, wɛ aɔdā nɛ alɔ cika ō blakwu ɔ klla gbotu a.
Ya Ku Ihɔtu Nɛ A Lɛ Lɛ Ujehofa Mla Ācɛ Ɔhá A Kóō Yɔ I Lɔfu Tōōtɔ̄ɔ̄
10 Alɔ abɔyi alɔ gē dɔka ɔwɛ ɛyɛɛyɛyi ō je otabɔ lɛ ayinɛ alɔ. (Uhíb. 13:16) Leyi yɛ ocabɔ ku Anna nɛ alɔ kɛla lɛyikwu ɔ ipu ikpɛyi ɛlā nōo gáā yɛ a. Igbihi nɛ owu bɔbi bɔbi éyi le ta a, anu mla ɔba nu nyɔ gáā má apɔlɛ éyi nɛ owu a kwu ɔlɛ uwa u biya a. Ohigbu ɛnyā, apɔlɛ a i lɛ ili nōo le yeŋee ō le wiye gɛ ŋ. Anna kahinii: “Alɔ kwu ili ku uwa u kpo, gáā lɛ ɔ na, klla lɛ ɔ ya iron lɛ ɔ ce ba lɔɔlɔhi gē lɛ uwa. Ɔdā nɛ alɔ ya ɔɔma wɛ ɔdā nɛ̄ncɛ́ tu alɔ, amáŋ ohi gbu ku alɔ ya lɛ a, alɔ kwupiya aɔkpa olɔhi jaa kwu icɛ.” Ihɔtu nɛ Anna mla ɔba nu lɛ lɛ ayinɛ a lɛ abɔ kwu uwa ɔtu kéē je otabɔ néē cɛgbá a lɛ uwa.—1 Ujɔ́n. 3:17, 18.
11 Ɔdaŋ ku alɔ ya ɛlā ɔwɛ ogbonɛnɛ klla mafu ihɔtu lɛ ācɛ ɔhá, é lɔfu má ku alɔ yɔ i ceyitikwu ō gbla Ujehofa ya. Uce ogbonɛnɛ ɔɔma lɔfu jɛ uwa eyī fiyɛ ɛgɛ nɛ alɔ kóō gbɛla lɛ a. Khanh nɛ alɔ kɛla lɛyikwu ɔ gbɔbu a blakwu ācɛ nōo ta ɔ abɔ a lɔɔlɔhi kpɔ. Ó kahinii: “Ɛjɛɛji ɔdā nɛ ayinɛ alɔ nɔnya a ya o ya ɛɛ kéē bi um gɛɛcɛ ku alɔ jɔɔnyɛ iyi alɔ a wɛ ɔdā nōo jɛ um eyī nɛhi. É géē wa gáā je umŋma ɔlɛ, gē hi um igwú ku um lé ɔdole mla uwa, klla gē má ka um lɛ yɛ fu ɔlɛ ɛbɔ. Babanya n gáā le má ka ɔdā néē ya ɔɔma cɛgbá oceyitikwu nɛhi. É kē i gweeye ō ya lɛ a.” Ó wɛ ɔkwɛyi, ka ó wɛ ɛjɛɛji ācɛ gáā ta alɔ ahinya ku ɔdā nɛ alɔ ya lɛ uwa a ŋ. Khanh kɛla lɛyikwu ācɛ nōo ta ɔ abɔ a kahinii: “Ó gē yɛ i he um ɔtu ku um lɛ ule ku ɛjɛɛji ɔdā ogbonɛnɛ nɛ ayinɛ a ya gā um cila uwa, amáŋ ń jé ɛga nɛ ɛjɛɛji uwa lā babanya a gɛ ŋ. Amáŋ, n jé ka Ujehofa jé ɛga néē lā a, n kē i gbɔɔkɔ kóō lɛ ule olɔhi a cila uwa.” Khanh le kpaakpa. Ujehofa gē má ɛjɛɛji ɔdā ogbonɛnɛ nɛ alɔ gē ya lɛ ācɛ ɔhá a ɔdaŋ néē kóō le ligii naana. Ó gē leyi má ɔ ka ó wɛ ɔdā nōo cɛgbá nɛhi klla wɛ ule nɛ ó géē gba cigbihi.—Jé Aíita 19:17.
Aa Gɔbu Yɔ I Mafu Ihɔtu Nōo Gē Yɔ Piyoo A Lɛ Iyi Aa
6 Gbɛla lɛyikwu eko nɛ ugbeenyi ku Upɔlu ca ta enyi a. Isu a lɛ anu mɛmla ācɛ ohile nōo yɔ ipu ugbeenyi a kpo gā okonu isu a, iye ku abɔɔ kē lé ka ɔliidɔ ku Umalta. Naana nɛ ācɛ ku Umalta a i jé uwa amáŋ lɛ ɛma duuma mɛmla uwa gbɔbu ŋ ma a, é miyɛ uwa ta ɔlɛ klla ya uwa ɔga lɔɔlɔhi. (Ācot. 28:2, 7) Ó teyi peee ku ācɛ Umalta nyā mafu ihɔtu, amáŋ ɛdɔ ihɔtu néē mafu a wɛ ihɔtu nɛ ɔcɛ lɔfu mafu lɛ ɔcɛ duuma nōo yɔ ipu unwalu a gla. Ohigbu ɛnyā alɔ lɔfu ka ka ihɔtu a wɛ ɛ̄nɛ̄ ɔcɛ gē mafu lɛ ɛjɛɛji ācɛ a nɛ, ó wɛ ihɔtu nōo gē yɔ piyoo a ŋ.
7 Babanya alɔ kɛla lɛyikwu ocabɔ ku Udefidi mla Ujonatan, ku alɔ bi ɔ le jɛyi ku ɔdā nɛ ihɔtu nōo gē yɔ piyoo a wɛ a. Udefidi mafu ihɔtu nōo gē yɔ piyoo a lɛ Ujonatan, naana nɛ adā ku Ujonatan dɔka ō ŋmo ɔ a. Ihayi alɛwa igbihi nɛ Ujonatan kóō gekwu naana, Udefidi gɔbu yɔ i mafu ɛdɔ ihɔtu nyā lɛ Umefibossɛti nōo wɛ ɔyi ku Ujonatan a. Ó teyi peee ka Udefidi i gáā ya ɛjɛɛji aɔdā nyā lɛ ɔcɛ duuma ɛgɔɔma ŋ ma. Ó ma ihɔtu nōo gē yɔ piyoo a fu, ohigbu ka ó lɛ ɛnɛɛnɛ ɛma mla ihɔtu nɛhi lɛ Ujonatan.—1 Usám. 20:9, 14, 15; 2 Usám. 4:4; 8:15; 9:1, 6, 7.
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
w87 5/15 29
Bible Highlights Proverbs 1:1–31:31
Fear Jehovah and You Will Be Happy
Lowly ones belong to God, and what we do to them is counted as done to him. (Proverbs 14:31) If love and generosity prompt us to show favor to the lowly or give gifts to the poor, expecting no return from them, Jehovah considers such giving as loans to him that he repays with favor and blessings.—Luke 14:12-14.
ƆYA ƆMƐHILI 30–ƆYA ƆMAHAAPA 6
AGBENU NŌO YƆ IPU ƐLĀ ƆWƆICO AÍITA 20
Ɔdā Nɛ Ācɛ Ɛpa Nōo Yɔ I Jé Iyi Uwa O Ya Ɛɛ Kéē Kwu Iyi Uwa I Lɛ A Lɔfu Ya, O Ya Ɛɛ Kéē Ya Ōmiya Ku Ijeeyi A
Ɛgɛ Nɛ Ācɛ Ɛpa Nōo Yɔ I Jé Iyi Uwa O Ya Ɛɛ Kéē Kwu Iyi Uwa I Lɛ Lɔfu Ya Ōmiya Ku Ijeeyi A
3 Naana nɛ ācɛ ɛpa nōo yɔ i jé uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ lɔfu jɔɔnyɛ eko ɔɔma nɛɛnɛhi a, ɔcɛnyilɔ mla ɔcɛnya a cɛgbá ō leyi yɛ ɛgɛ nɛ ɛma ku uwa a cɛgbá nɛhi lɛ a, ohigbu ka ó lɔfu ya kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ. Ɛ̄cī omɛɛlɛ mɛɛlɛ, ɔba mla ɔnyā gē cokonu iyɔbu ku Ujehofa ka uwa ɛplɛɛpa géē yihɔtu klla lɛ ojilima ce iyi uwa ɛpleeko néē yeeyi gáā kwu a. Gbɔbu ɛɛ ku alɔ cokonu duuma, alɔ cɛgbá ō gbɛla tu ɔ lɔɔlɔhi. (Jé Aíita 20:25.) Ɛgɔɔma nōó lɛ mla okonu ō ce ku ɔba mla ɔnyā duu a. Eko nɛ ācɛ ɛpa yɔ i jé iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ a, gē je ɛnɛɛnɛ ɛga lɛ uwa ō jé iyi uwa lɔɔlɔhi klla ya ōmiya olɔhi. Ekoohi, ōmiya a wɛ ō lɛ iyi uwa lɛ, ekoohi ōmiya a kē lɔfu wɛ kéē le kɔ. Ɔdaŋ ka ācɛ ɛpa nōo yɔ i jé uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ kwu kɔ, ɛnyā i wɛ ka é lɛ ɔdobɔbi ya ŋ. Ikɔkɔ ɔɔma, ō jé iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ a lɛ uklɔ ku nu ya—ó ta uwa abɔ ō lɛ ōmiya olɔhi ya.
4 Ó wɛ ɔdā ocɛgbá ku ācɛ nōó lɛ ɔba amāŋ ɔnyā ɛ ŋ ma kéē bla, ka ācɛ ɛpa gē jé iyi uwa gbɔbu ɛɛ kéē lɛ iyi uwa, o ya ɛɛ kéē gáā le má ɔdaŋ néē géē lɛ iyi uwa. Ɛnyā wɛ ka é gáā gbɔɔ ō jé ɔcɛ ɔdaŋ néē le jé taajɛ ɛ ku aa i gáā lɛ ɔcɛ ɔɔma ŋ. Ó wɛ ācɛ nōó lɛ ɔba amāŋ ɔnya ɛ ŋ ma foofunu cɛgbá ō bi eyī olɔhi le má ācɛ nōo yɔ i jé iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ a ŋ. Ɛjɛɛji alɔ cika ō bla ɔdā nōo ya ɛɛ nɛ ācɛ ɛpa gē je iyi uwa gbɔbu ɛɛ kéē lɛ iyi uwa a. Ocabɔ mafu, ācɛ ōhī gbɛla ka ɔdaŋ ka ācɛ ɛpa gbɔɔ ō je iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi i lɛ, é géē lɛ iyi uwa piii. Ɛgɛnyá nɛ ɛlá ō gbo ɛgɔɔma gē lɛ abɔ kwu Ācɛ O Yɛce Ukraist nōó lɛ ɔba amāŋ ɔnyā ɛ ŋ ma? Melissa, ɔyinɛ alɔ nɔnya éyi nōo ŋma United States a kahinii: “Eko nɛ ɔyinɛ nɔnya mla ɔyinɛ nɔnyilɔ yɔ i jé iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ, Ācɛ Ocijali ōhī gē leyice kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ piii. Ohigbu ɛnyā, ācɛ ōhī nōo yɔ i jé iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ a gɔbu yɔ i ya lɛ a kpɔ, naana néē jé ka é cika lɛ iyi uwa ŋ ma. Ācɛ ōhī i kóō gē lɛ eko taajɛ ō jé iyi uwa fluflu ŋ. Ɛnyā lɔfu ya ku ɔcɛ kóō lɛ ɔtooplico nɛhi.”
Ɛgɛnyá Nɛ A Lɔfu Má Ɔcɛ Nɛ A Géē Lɛ A
8 Ɛgɛnyá nɛ a lɔfu bi ɔwɛ ku ijeeyi le jé ɔcɛ a lɔɔlɔhi a? Ipu ōjila ku ujɔ amāŋ ɛga ō jɔɔnyɛ iyi alɔ, a lɔfu leyi taajɛ ō jé ɛgɛ nɛ ɔcɛ a jikoko ipu ɛlā ku Ɔwɔico, ɛdɔ ɔcɛ nɛ ó wɛ, mla uce ō ya ku nu. Anyɛ wɛ aoklobiya amāŋ acɛnyā ku nu a, ɔdi nɛ ó gē kɛla lɛyikwu ɔ a? (Ulúk. 6:45) Aōmiya ku nu cɛtɔha mla aku uwɔ? A lɔfu da anyakwɔcɛ ku ujɔ ku nu amāŋ ɔcɛ o jikoko ipu ɛlā ku Ɔwɔico ɔhá ɔka lɛyikwu ɔ. (Aíit. 20:18) A lɔfu da ɔka lɛyikwu ɛdɔ ɔcɛ nɛ ó wɛ mla uce ō ya ku nu. (Urút. 2:11) Abɔ a yɔ i ceyitikwu ō jé odee lɛyikwu ɔcɛ a lɔɔlɔhi a, a hii ya ɔdā duuma nōo géē kwu ɔ iyē ŋ. Lɛ ojilima ce ɛgɛ nɛ ɔtu gē ya ɔ lɛ a, á klla ceyitikwu ō jé ɛjɛɛji ɔdā otayinu lɛyikwu ɔ ŋ.
Ɛgɛ Nɛ Ācɛ Ɛpa Nōo Yɔ I Jé Iyi Uwa O Ya Ɛɛ Kéē Kwu Iyi Uwa I Lɛ Lɔfu Ya Ōmiya Ku Ijeeyi A
7 Ɛgɛnyá nɛ a gáā lɔfu jé ɛdɔ ɔcɛ nɛ ɔcɛ a wɛ ɔkwɔɔkwɛyi a? Aa lɔfu ya ɛnyā ŋma lɛ ō da ɔka mla ō jahɔ tu iyi aa lɔɔlɔhi. Aa ɛplɛɛpa cɛgbá ō ka ɛgɛ nɛ ɔtu yɔ i ya aa lɛ ɔkwɔɔkwɛyi a, klla je ohi ɔkwɛyi a lɛ iyi aa. (Aíit. 20:5; Ujɛ́m. 1:19) Á jé ŋ, aa lɔfu miya ō ya aɔdā ōhī tɔha nōo géē ya kóō tɔɔtɛ lɛ aa ō kɛla tɔha, bɛɛka ō lé ɔdole tɔha, ō yiyawu tɔha ɛga nɛ ācɛ ba, mla ō yuklɔ ku ɔna ō ta tɔha. Aa klla lɔfu nwu ɛlā lɛyikwu iyi aa eko duuma nɛ aa lɛ eko taajɛ ō yɔ tɔha mla aɔkpa mla ācɛ apɔlɛ ku aa. O ka tu ɔ, aa klla lɔfu miya ō ya aɔdā ōhī tɔha nōo géē ta aa abɔ ō jé ɛgɛ nɛ ɔcɛ ɔɔma gē ya uce lɛ ipu āhɔ̄ ɛyɛɛyɛyi mla ācɛ ɛyɛɛyɛyi a. Leyi bi ɔdā nɛ Aschwin nōo ŋma u Netherland a ceyitikwu ya a. Lɛyikwu eko nɛ anu mla Alicia yɔ i je iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ a, ó kahinii: “Alɔ dɔka aɔdā ɛyɛɛyɛyi ō ya nōo géē ta alɔ abɔ ō nwu ɛlā lɛyikwu iyi alɔ. Igbɛlawa, aɔdā nyā wɛ aɔdā oligii ligii, bɛɛka ō he ɔdole amāŋ ō ya auklɔ ɔlɛ ōhī tɔha. Ɛpleeko nɛ alɔ gē ya aɔdā nyā tɔha a, alɔ má auce ō ya olɔhi ku iyi alɔ mla ɛga nɛ alɔ i gē ya lɔhi ŋ ma.”
8 Aa klla lɔfu jé iyi aa oŋma lɛ ō klɔcɛ ku aɛlā ōhī tɔha ŋma ipu Ubáyíbu. Ɔdaŋ ku aa kwu iyi aa i lɛ, aa géē cɛgbá ō lɛ eko taajɛ ō ya ɛ̄gbā ō gba ku apɔlɛ, o ya ɛɛ ku Ɔwɔico kóō wɛ aya ocɛgbá ipu obatɔha ku aa. (Ɔ̄cok. 4:12) Ohigbu ɛnyā, aa lɔfu lɛ eko taajɛ ō klɔcɛ tɔha babanya, abɔ aa yɔ i jé iyi aa o ya ɛɛ ku aa kwu iyi aa i lɛ a. Ku ɛlā ɔkwɛyi a, ācɛ ɛpa nōo yɔ i jé iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ i wɛ apɔlɛ ɛ ŋ, ɔcɛnyilɔ a i kē wɛ otrɛyi ku ɔyinɛ nɔnya a ɛ ŋ. Amáŋ, oŋma lɛ ō klɔcɛ tɔha eko doodu babanya, ó géē ta aa abɔ ō jé ɛgɛ nɛ ɔcɛ ɔhá a yihɔtu ku Ujehofa lɛ a. Max mla u Laysa, ɔba mla ɔnyā éyi nōo ŋma United States a má ɔdā ɔhá nōo lɔfu tabɔ a. Max kahinii: “Ó gboji ŋ abɔ alɔ gbɔɔ ō je iyi alɔ o ya ɛɛ ku alɔ kwu iyi alɔ i lɛ a, alɔ gbɔɔ ō klɔcɛ aɔkpá ku alɔ nōo kɛla lɛyikwu ācɛ ɛpa ō jé iyi uwa o ya ɛɛ kéē kwu iyi uwa i lɛ, obatɔha ku ɔba mla ɔnyā, mla oyeeyi ku apɔlɛ. Ohigbu ka alɔ klɔcɛ aɔkpá nyā a, ó le tɔɔtɛ lɛ alɔ ō kɛla lɛyikwu aɛlā ocɛgbá alɛwa nōo gē yɛ i lɔnɔ tu alɔ ō kɛla lɛyikwu uwa a.”
Ɛnɛɛnɛ Ɛlā Nɛ Alɔ Nwu Ŋma Ɛlā Ɔwɔico
lv 168 ¶15
Be Honest in All Things
15 A Christian’s honesty is not limited to the congregation. Paul said: “We wish to conduct ourselves honestly in all things.” (Hebrews 13:18) When it comes to secular business matters, our Creator is very interested in honesty. In the book of Proverbs alone, there are several references to dishonest scales. (Proverbs 11:1; 20:10, 23) In ancient times, it was common to use scales and weights in business transactions in order to weigh out the goods purchased and the money used to purchase them. Dishonest merchants would use two sets of weights and an inaccurate scale to deceive and cheat their customers. Jehovah hates such practices! To remain in his love, we strictly avoid any and all dishonest business practices.