Friday, October 10
The fear of Jehovah is the beginning of wisdom.—Prov. 9:10.
What should we as Christians do if a pornographic image shows up on our electronic device? We should immediately reject the image. We can be helped to take such action if we recall that our most treasured possession is our relationship with Jehovah. Actually, images that are not generally considered pornographic might be sexually arousing. Why avoid them? Because we do not want to take even a small step toward committing adultery in our heart. (Matt. 5:28, 29) An elder in Thailand named David says: “I ask myself: ‘Even though the images may not be pornographic, will Jehovah be pleased if I keep looking at them?’ This kind of reasoning helps me to act wisely.” We are helped to act wisely by cultivating a healthy fear of displeasing Jehovah. Godly fear is “the beginning,” or foundation, “of wisdom.” w23.06 28:12-13
Saturday, October 11
Go, my people, enter your inner rooms.—Isa. 26:20.
The “inner rooms” may refer to our congregations. During the great tribulation, we will find the protection that Jehovah promises as we remain united with fellow believers. Therefore, we must work hard now not just to tolerate our brothers and sisters but also to love them. Our survival may depend on it! “The great day of Jehovah” will bring distress on humankind. (Zeph. 1:14, 15) Jehovah’s people will face hardships too. But if we prepare now, we will be able to stay calm and help others. We will endure any challenges that come our way. When our fellow believers suffer, we will do our best to give them relief by showing compassion and providing for their needs. And we will stick close to our brothers and sisters, whom we have already grown to love. Jehovah will then reward us with eternal life in a world where all disasters and tribulations will be forgotten.—Isa. 65:17. w23.07 29:16-17
Sunday, October 12
[Jehovah] will make you firm, he will make you strong, he will firmly ground you.—1 Pet. 5:10.
God’s Word often describes faithful men as powerful. But even the strongest among them did not always feel strong. For example, on some occasions King David felt that he was “as strong as a mountain,” but on other occasions he “became terrified.” (Ps. 30:7) Although Samson was exceptionally powerful when he was moved by God’s spirit, he recognized that without the power that comes from God, he would “grow weak and become like all other men.” (Judg. 14:5, 6; 16:17) These faithful men were strong only because Jehovah gave them power. The apostle Paul acknowledged that he too needed power from Jehovah. (2 Cor. 12:9, 10) He contended with health problems. (Gal. 4:13, 14) At times, he also struggled to do the right thing. (Rom. 7:18, 19) And sometimes he felt anxious and uncertain. (2 Cor. 1:8, 9) Yet, when Paul was weak, he became powerful. How? Jehovah gave Paul the power he lacked. He made Paul strong. w23.10 43:1-2