How do you feel when a workmate or a schoolmate asks you about your beliefs? Do you feel nervous? Most of us do. But such a question may offer insight into the other person’s thinking or beliefs, giving us an opportunity to share the good news. At times, though, a person may raise a question in a challenging manner. That should not surprise us. After all, some have been misinformed about our beliefs. (Acts 28:22) Furthermore, we are living in “the last days,” a time when many are “not open to any agreement” and are even “fierce.” (2 Tim. 3:1, 3) You may wonder, ‘How can I be gentle and gracious when someone challenges my Bible-based beliefs?’ What will help you? In a word​—mildness. A mild person does not get easily upset but is able to control himself when faced with frustrations and uncertainties. w23.09 39:1-2

At times, we receive counsel that safeguards us from such things as materialism and activities that can put us in danger of breaking God’s laws. Here, too, we are blessed by following the guidance Jehovah provides. (Isa. 48:17, 18; 1 Tim. 6:9, 10) No doubt Jehovah will continue to use human representatives to provide guidance during the great tribulation and on into the Thousand Year Reign. Will we keep following that direction? Much may depend on how we respond to the guidance that Jehovah is providing now. Therefore, let us always follow Jehovah’s guidance, including that which is provided by the men who are appointed to watch over us. (Isa. 32:1, 2; Heb. 13:17) And as we do, we have every reason to trust in our Guide, Jehovah, who leads us away from spiritual danger and toward our destination​—everlasting life in the new world. w24.02 8:17-18

The apostle Paul enjoyed a satisfying life in Jehovah’s service, but he had many challenges to overcome. Paul often traveled long distances, and travel was not easy in those days. On his journeys, Paul was sometimes “in dangers from rivers” and “in dangers from robbers.” He was also occasionally subjected to physical mistreatment from opposers. (2 Cor. 11:23-27) And Paul’s Christian brothers did not always show appreciation for his sincere efforts to help them. (2 Cor. 10:10; Phil. 4:15) What helped Paul to keep going in Jehovah’s service? Paul learned much about Jehovah’s personality from the Scriptures and from his own experiences. Paul became convinced that Jehovah God loved him. (Rom. 8:38, 39; Eph. 2:4, 5) And he came to love Jehovah very much. Paul showed his love for Jehovah “by ministering and continuing to minister to the holy ones.”​—Heb. 6:10. w23.07 30:5-6