When we have important decisions to make, we need to perceive “what the will of Jehovah is” and then act in harmony with it. (Eph. 5:17) By identifying Bible principles that apply to our situation, we are actually seeking God’s thinking on the matter. Then as we apply his principles, we will more likely make good decisions. “The wicked one,” our enemy Satan, would like to keep us so busy with this world’s pursuits that we have no time for our service to God. (1 John 5:19) It would be all too easy for a Christian to put material possessions, secular education, or his career ahead of opportunities to serve Jehovah. Were that to happen, it would indicate that he is being affected by the world’s thinking. Of course, these things are not wrong in themselves, but they should never take first place in our life. w24.03 12:16-17

Note two important points in the above psalm: (1) Righteous people face problems. (2) Jehovah delivers us from our trials. How does Jehovah deliver us? One way is by helping us to have a realistic view of life in this system of things. While Jehovah does promise that we will have joy in serving him, he does not guarantee a worry-free life now. (Isa. 66:14) He urges us to focus on our future​—the time when we will have the life that he wants us to enjoy forever. (2 Cor. 4:16-18) In the meantime, he helps us to keep going each day. (Lam. 3:22-24) What can we learn from the examples of faithful worshippers of Jehovah, both in Bible times and in our day? We may face unexpected problems. But when we lean on Jehovah, he will never fail to sustain us.​—Ps. 55:22. w23.04 17:3-4

We can learn from the examples of Joseph and Mary, who were ready to obey the superior authorities even when it was inconvenient. (Luke 2:1-6) When Mary was about nine months pregnant, she and Joseph faced a test of obedience. Augustus, who ruled the Roman Empire, called for a census. Joseph and Mary had to travel to Bethlehem, a journey of up to 150 kilometers (93 mi) through hilly country. That trip would be uncomfortable, especially for Mary. The couple may have worried about her safety and that of their unborn baby. What if she were to go into labor while traveling? She was carrying the future Messiah in her womb. Would that excuse them from obeying the government? Joseph and Mary did not allow any of those concerns to influence whether they would obey the law. Jehovah blessed their obedience. Mary arrived safely in Bethlehem, gave birth to a healthy baby, and even helped to fulfill Bible prophecy!​—Mic. 5:2. w23.10 42:9, 11-12