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

Many people acknowledge that we need the secular governments and that we should obey at least some of the laws set by these “superior authorities.” But those same people may hesitate to obey a law that seems unfair or appears to require too much. The Bible acknowledges that human governments cause suffering, are under Satan’s control, and will soon be destroyed. (Ps. 110:5, 6; Eccl. 8:9; Luke 4:5, 6) It also tells us that “whoever opposes the authority has taken a stand against the arrangement of God.” Our relative subjection to the superior authorities is part of Jehovah’s temporary arrangement to maintain order. Therefore, we must “render to all their dues,” including taxes, respect, and obedience. (Rom. 13:1-7) We may view a law as being inconvenient, unfair, or costly to obey. But we obey Jehovah, and he tells us to obey these authorities as long as they do not ask us to break his commands.​—Acts 5:29. w23.10 42:9-10